FROM THE INTERNET
A while back I posted “ONE NEW MAN”, from our January 2006 issue, on an Internet forum. The following exchange resulted.
Okay, group, let's get personal about this. Has God
ever done something that did not line up with *your* understanding of the Word? Care to share? What did the experience teach you?
MARION SEZ: HE SURE HAS!!!
The most recent, and perhaps the most life-changing, took place just this year. It happened this way:
Back in 1959 or 1960, I was working in a warehouse where bales of hops were re-compressed for shipping around the world. The finished product weighed about 433 pounds each. One would come down the line about every 15 minutes or so, and my job was to wrap it with steel strapping in four places. When we finished, my partner and I grabbed it and stood it up on end for the man with the hand truck to truck it away to the loading dock.
We were not allowed to talk, so I occupied my mind with memorizing scripture in the book of Isaiah. I had the basic ideas of some of the chapters (53 to 61), but could not "get a handle on them", because I was still too bogged down with the "Theory of Ribera", as I have lately been calling it. He was one of the two Jesuit Priests that the Pope commissioned to "Get the heat off the Catholic Church". The Reformation preachers were pointing to the Papacy and calling it the antichrist, and the heat was becoming unbearable.
According to those who have studied the matter, Ribera published a 500 page manuscript in 1590 in which he successfully changed the curriculum of the Church.
The changes included, but were not confined to, re-interpreting the books of Daniel and Revelation, and directing the attention of students of Prophecy to the last seven years of the Church dispensation.
He successfully directed attention away from the Papacy, and focused attention on a future "one-man antichrist", a future "mark of the beast"-- the whole "ball of wax", or the "whole nine yards". This also, of necessity, included the restoration and evangelization of the family of Israel, which, according to traditional knowledge, is/was made up of only what are known as the Jews.
I didn't see how even the Lord could accomplish so much in seven years, but I knew He could do whatever He wanted to do. I had to leave it at that, for my feeble brain could only stand a small amount of pressure.
Then, one day last September (or was it October 2005), The Lord suddenly brought several things into sharper focus for me (this time in my SPIRIT instead of my mind).
I re-read Isaiah 49, and as I did, the Lord seemed to "lay it all out" before me.
I had preached several times about the "work of the Messiah" from chapter 49, but always had to "work around" the fact that the Lord seemed to be calling the Messiah by the name of Israel. It was as "clear as mud" to me.
NOT ANY MORE! For when the Lord opened my eyes to what He has done, and is presently doing in the earth, the horizon of my understanding changed completely.
Suddenly, I saw Abraham, and the Promise, in a new light. I saw Jesus Christ in a new light. I saw Calvary in a new light. I saw Pentecost in a new light. History of the Church changed. History of the World changed.
And the FUTURE, well that is a story all by itself. RIBERA WAS WRONG! DEVILISHLY WRONG !!!
And the lights of revelations are still going on! I have no idea when or where it will end.
THE FUTURE IS NOTHING BUT BRIGHT! GOD IS IN "RESTORATION MODE" NOW ! GOD IS IN CONTROL. GOD IS “CALLING THE SHOTS.”
BLESSED BE GOD !!!!
Monday, April 30, 2007
Sunday, April 29, 2007
TRUE MINISTERS
TRUE MINISTERS
The one who speaks God's Word and the testimony of Jesus is hated and persecuted because of it, for this Word is holy, pure, and righteous, while man, on the other hand, is unholy, impure and hypocritical. Man comes in touch with an element which affects his life like a fire, and he must either permit this purging fire to burn off from himself things inconsistent with a Holy God; himself becoming a part of the purifying fire, or else he will rise in bitterness against it, trying to quench his agony and anger on the instrument through whom he has heard the Voice of God.
On the other hand, one speaking about God's Word
can be elevated and honored of men, because he places himself as a guardian angel between God and the people in order that the Word of God might not reach and disturb them. In order to prevent this, he places himself as an interpreter of the Word, just as if God had chosen him, not to speak his Word--be His mouthpiece--but had chosen him to explain what God means, as if God Himself were unable to make His meanings clear, but were dependent upon an interpreter to be correctly understood. "Am I therefore become your enemy because I tell you the Truth?" Gal 4:16
--contributed by John Lake
The one who speaks God's Word and the testimony of Jesus is hated and persecuted because of it, for this Word is holy, pure, and righteous, while man, on the other hand, is unholy, impure and hypocritical. Man comes in touch with an element which affects his life like a fire, and he must either permit this purging fire to burn off from himself things inconsistent with a Holy God; himself becoming a part of the purifying fire, or else he will rise in bitterness against it, trying to quench his agony and anger on the instrument through whom he has heard the Voice of God.
On the other hand, one speaking about God's Word
can be elevated and honored of men, because he places himself as a guardian angel between God and the people in order that the Word of God might not reach and disturb them. In order to prevent this, he places himself as an interpreter of the Word, just as if God had chosen him, not to speak his Word--be His mouthpiece--but had chosen him to explain what God means, as if God Himself were unable to make His meanings clear, but were dependent upon an interpreter to be correctly understood. "Am I therefore become your enemy because I tell you the Truth?" Gal 4:16
--contributed by John Lake
Friday, April 27, 2007
ETERNAL FIRE
ETERNAL FIRE
The first fire on the Brazen Altar, that is. You will recall that the Lord had taken great pains to fully instruct Moses and the people about how the sacrifices were to be conducted, and the ceremonies of the Tabernacle were to be performed.
Heb 8:5 Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern showed to thee in the mount.
For many years, I had not been aware that the fire on the brazen altar was NOT ORDINARY FIRE. It was not, by any means. True, it LOOKED just like other fire, and normally ACTED like other fire, but that is where the similarity stopped. IT WAS ETERNAL FIRE. IT WAS GOD’S FIRE. Have you ever considered just how long it would take to BURN the carcase of an animal, using ORDINARY fire? Stop, and think about it.
No, the fire on the Altar was a special fire. The Bible tells us, Leviticus 9:24 AND THERE CAME A FIRE OUT FROM BEFORE THE LORD, AND CONSUMED UPON THE ALTAR THE BURNT OFFERING AND THE FAT: [which] when all the people saw, they shouted, and fell on their faces.
God started that fire, but there were certain rules that Moses and Aaron must observe in the CARE of that fire.
Leviticus 6:12 And the fire upon the altar shall be burning in it; it shall not be put out: and the priest shall BURN WOOD on it every morning, and lay the burnt offering in order upon it; and he shall burn thereon the fat of the peace offerings. The fire shall EVER BE BURNING UPON THE ALTAR; IT SHALL NEVER GO OUT.
That command created a problem of fuel supply. THAT WAS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF MAN-- to keep the fire burning on the Altar. This speaks volumes to me.
We must DO WHATEVER IT TAKES to keep the Fire of God burning in our souls.
Jud 1:20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,
Jud 1:21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
THREE MAIN ELEMENTS make up the FUEL for the FIRE OF GOD in our souls. They are: The WORD (Rhema) of God, PRAYER and OBEDIENCE to the Spirit.
I used the term "Rhema" instead of "Logos" because the Logos is not always the Rhema to us. Rhema is the SWORD OF THE SPIRIT (Eph 6:17). Rhema is the WORD OF FAITH (Rom 10:8,17which we preach). Rhema is the WORD OF CREATION, (Heb 11:3) which we can understand through faith.
God gave a demonstration of what that fire COULD do when Elijah challenged the prophets of Baal on Mt. Carmel. I Kings 18:24 And call ye on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the LORD: and the God that answereth by fire, let him be God. And all the people answered and said, It is well spoken.
I Kings 18:37 Hear me, O LORD, hear me, that this people may know that thou [art] the LORD God, and [that] thou hast turned their heart back again. Then the fire of the LORD fell, and CONSUMED the burnt SACRIFICE, and the WOOD, and the STONES, and the DUST, and LICKED UP the WATER that [was] in the trench.
Two of the sons of Aaron broke the rules of worship by taking ordinary (strange) fire to burn incense before the Lord, instead of getting their (eternal) fire from the Altar. The cost of that mistake was sudden death by the same CONSUMING fire that had been put on the altar.
Leviticus 10:1 And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and put incense thereon, and offered strange fire before the LORD, which he commanded them not. And there went out fire from the LORD, and devoured them, and they died before the LORD.
I am wondering-- Is God concerned about our mode of worship today? What do you think?
The first fire on the Brazen Altar, that is. You will recall that the Lord had taken great pains to fully instruct Moses and the people about how the sacrifices were to be conducted, and the ceremonies of the Tabernacle were to be performed.
Heb 8:5 Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern showed to thee in the mount.
For many years, I had not been aware that the fire on the brazen altar was NOT ORDINARY FIRE. It was not, by any means. True, it LOOKED just like other fire, and normally ACTED like other fire, but that is where the similarity stopped. IT WAS ETERNAL FIRE. IT WAS GOD’S FIRE. Have you ever considered just how long it would take to BURN the carcase of an animal, using ORDINARY fire? Stop, and think about it.
No, the fire on the Altar was a special fire. The Bible tells us, Leviticus 9:24 AND THERE CAME A FIRE OUT FROM BEFORE THE LORD, AND CONSUMED UPON THE ALTAR THE BURNT OFFERING AND THE FAT: [which] when all the people saw, they shouted, and fell on their faces.
God started that fire, but there were certain rules that Moses and Aaron must observe in the CARE of that fire.
Leviticus 6:12 And the fire upon the altar shall be burning in it; it shall not be put out: and the priest shall BURN WOOD on it every morning, and lay the burnt offering in order upon it; and he shall burn thereon the fat of the peace offerings. The fire shall EVER BE BURNING UPON THE ALTAR; IT SHALL NEVER GO OUT.
That command created a problem of fuel supply. THAT WAS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF MAN-- to keep the fire burning on the Altar. This speaks volumes to me.
We must DO WHATEVER IT TAKES to keep the Fire of God burning in our souls.
Jud 1:20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,
Jud 1:21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
THREE MAIN ELEMENTS make up the FUEL for the FIRE OF GOD in our souls. They are: The WORD (Rhema) of God, PRAYER and OBEDIENCE to the Spirit.
I used the term "Rhema" instead of "Logos" because the Logos is not always the Rhema to us. Rhema is the SWORD OF THE SPIRIT (Eph 6:17). Rhema is the WORD OF FAITH (Rom 10:8,17which we preach). Rhema is the WORD OF CREATION, (Heb 11:3) which we can understand through faith.
God gave a demonstration of what that fire COULD do when Elijah challenged the prophets of Baal on Mt. Carmel. I Kings 18:24 And call ye on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the LORD: and the God that answereth by fire, let him be God. And all the people answered and said, It is well spoken.
I Kings 18:37 Hear me, O LORD, hear me, that this people may know that thou [art] the LORD God, and [that] thou hast turned their heart back again. Then the fire of the LORD fell, and CONSUMED the burnt SACRIFICE, and the WOOD, and the STONES, and the DUST, and LICKED UP the WATER that [was] in the trench.
Two of the sons of Aaron broke the rules of worship by taking ordinary (strange) fire to burn incense before the Lord, instead of getting their (eternal) fire from the Altar. The cost of that mistake was sudden death by the same CONSUMING fire that had been put on the altar.
Leviticus 10:1 And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and put incense thereon, and offered strange fire before the LORD, which he commanded them not. And there went out fire from the LORD, and devoured them, and they died before the LORD.
I am wondering-- Is God concerned about our mode of worship today? What do you think?
THE GLORY
THE GLORY
There is an interesting story to be gleaned from the book of Ezekiel, if we take the time to search it out. It concerns the Glory of God, which was, at times visible to the eyes of men, as we read in Exodus 24:17-And the sight of the glory of the LORD [was] like devouring fire on the top of the mount in the eyes of the children of Israel.
God used this visible "Glory" to keep the children of Israel in line while in the wilderness. It "scared the daylights" out of them when it appeared at the door of the Tabernacle. Twice in two days, it stopped them from lynching Moses and his family.
Num 14:10 But all the congregation bade stone them with stones. And the glory of the LORD appeared in the tabernacle of the congregation before all the children of Israel.
Num 16:19 And Korah gathered all the congregation against them unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation: and the glory of the LORD appeared unto all the congregation.
Num 16:42 And it came to pass, when the congregation was gathered against Moses and against Aaron, that they looked toward the tabernacle of the congregation: and, behold, the cloud covered it, and the glory of the LORD appeared.
It also served as a protection for them in the wilderness, in the form of a cloud by day, from the blistering sun, and a pillar of fire by night, from the cold, and other enemies.
It appeared at the dedication of Solomon's Temple as a thick cloud like smoke, stopping the priests from going in to perform their duties. It was perceived as a blessing and an approval from God. Ezekiel's story follows this theme through his prophecy. Let' follow it through its journey. We start at the river Chebar.
Ezekiel 3:15 Then I came to them of the captivity at Tel-abib, that dwelt by the river of Chebar, and I sat where they sat, and remained there astonished among them seven days.
Next stop is on the plain.
Ezekiel 3:23 Then I arose, and went forth into the plain: and, behold, the glory of the LORD stood there, as the glory which I saw by the river of Chebar: and I fell on my face.
All aboard for Jerusalem, where we see some strange sights. Jerusalem is a picture of the Church today.
Ezekiel 8:3 And he put forth the form of an hand, and took me by a lock of mine head; and the spirit lifted me up between the earth and the heaven, and brought me in the visions of God to Jerusalem, to the door of the inner gate that looketh toward the north; where [was] the seat of the image of jealousy, which provoketh to jealousy. ((ContemporaryEnglishVersion) where there was an idol that disgusted the LORD and made him furious.)
And, behold, the glory of the God of Israel [was] there, according to the vision that I saw in the plain.
Ezekiel 8:6 He said furthermore unto me, Son of man, seest thou what they do? [even] the great abominations that the house of Israel committeth here, THAT I SHOULD GO FAR OFF FROM MY SANCTUARY? but turn thee yet again, [and] thou shalt see greater abominations.
Ezekiel 9:3 And the glory of the God of Israel was gone up from the cherub, whereupon he was, to the threshold of the house. [and stood] over the threshold of the house; Ezekiel 10:18 Then the glory of the LORD DEPARTED FROM OFF THE THRESHOLD of the house, and stood over the cherubims.
Ezekiel 10:19 And the cherubims lifted up their wings, and mounted up from the earth in my sight: WHEN THEY WENT OUT, the wheels also [were] beside them, and [every one] stood at the door of the east gate of the LORD'S house; and the glory of the God of Israel [was] over them above.
Ezekiel 11:23 And the GLORY OF THE LORD WENT UP FROM THE MIDST OF THE CITY, and stood upon the mountain which [is] on the east side of the city.
What a sad commentary. Because of the sins and idolatry of God's people, the Glory of God was driven from its place, from the SANCTUARY, from the THRESHOLD of His House--even from the MIDST OF HIS CITY. It left by degrees--hoping that the people would sense its departure, and stop their wickedness. THEY DID NOT.
A British Evangelist told us some time ago that we had driven God from His Sanctuary, and set up in His place the idol of entertainment. Can this be true?
I am afraid it is so.
Happily, the story doesn't stop there. There is a group known as the heathen who are being ministered to by the Glory of God.
Ezekiel 39:21 And I will set my glory among the heathen, and all the heathen shall see my judgment that I have executed, and my hand that I have laid upon them.
The good news is that in God's time, the Glory shall again be set in the midst of His people, but not until there has been a THOROUGH REPENTANCE FROM SIN AND IDOLATRY.
Listen to Eze 43:2 And, behold, the glory of the God of Israel came from the way of the east: and his voice [was] like a noise of many waters: and the earth shined with his glory. Ezekiel 43:4 AND THE GLORY OF THE LORD CAME INTO THE HOUSE BY THE WAY OF THE GATE WHOSE PROSPECT [IS] TOWARD THE EAST.
Yes, there is a real restoration coming to the Church. GOD'S GLORY SHALL FILL HIS HOUSE.
Ezekiel 43:5 So the spirit took me up, and brought me into the inner court; and, behold, THE GLORY OF THE LORD FILLED THE HOUSE.
Ezekiel 44:4 Then brought he me the way of the north gate, and, behold, THE GLORY OF THE LORD FILLED THE HOUSE OF THE LORD: and I fell upon my face.
There is an interesting story to be gleaned from the book of Ezekiel, if we take the time to search it out. It concerns the Glory of God, which was, at times visible to the eyes of men, as we read in Exodus 24:17-And the sight of the glory of the LORD [was] like devouring fire on the top of the mount in the eyes of the children of Israel.
God used this visible "Glory" to keep the children of Israel in line while in the wilderness. It "scared the daylights" out of them when it appeared at the door of the Tabernacle. Twice in two days, it stopped them from lynching Moses and his family.
Num 14:10 But all the congregation bade stone them with stones. And the glory of the LORD appeared in the tabernacle of the congregation before all the children of Israel.
Num 16:19 And Korah gathered all the congregation against them unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation: and the glory of the LORD appeared unto all the congregation.
Num 16:42 And it came to pass, when the congregation was gathered against Moses and against Aaron, that they looked toward the tabernacle of the congregation: and, behold, the cloud covered it, and the glory of the LORD appeared.
It also served as a protection for them in the wilderness, in the form of a cloud by day, from the blistering sun, and a pillar of fire by night, from the cold, and other enemies.
It appeared at the dedication of Solomon's Temple as a thick cloud like smoke, stopping the priests from going in to perform their duties. It was perceived as a blessing and an approval from God. Ezekiel's story follows this theme through his prophecy. Let' follow it through its journey. We start at the river Chebar.
Ezekiel 3:15 Then I came to them of the captivity at Tel-abib, that dwelt by the river of Chebar, and I sat where they sat, and remained there astonished among them seven days.
Next stop is on the plain.
Ezekiel 3:23 Then I arose, and went forth into the plain: and, behold, the glory of the LORD stood there, as the glory which I saw by the river of Chebar: and I fell on my face.
All aboard for Jerusalem, where we see some strange sights. Jerusalem is a picture of the Church today.
Ezekiel 8:3 And he put forth the form of an hand, and took me by a lock of mine head; and the spirit lifted me up between the earth and the heaven, and brought me in the visions of God to Jerusalem, to the door of the inner gate that looketh toward the north; where [was] the seat of the image of jealousy, which provoketh to jealousy. ((ContemporaryEnglishVersion) where there was an idol that disgusted the LORD and made him furious.)
And, behold, the glory of the God of Israel [was] there, according to the vision that I saw in the plain.
Ezekiel 8:6 He said furthermore unto me, Son of man, seest thou what they do? [even] the great abominations that the house of Israel committeth here, THAT I SHOULD GO FAR OFF FROM MY SANCTUARY? but turn thee yet again, [and] thou shalt see greater abominations.
Ezekiel 9:3 And the glory of the God of Israel was gone up from the cherub, whereupon he was, to the threshold of the house. [and stood] over the threshold of the house; Ezekiel 10:18 Then the glory of the LORD DEPARTED FROM OFF THE THRESHOLD of the house, and stood over the cherubims.
Ezekiel 10:19 And the cherubims lifted up their wings, and mounted up from the earth in my sight: WHEN THEY WENT OUT, the wheels also [were] beside them, and [every one] stood at the door of the east gate of the LORD'S house; and the glory of the God of Israel [was] over them above.
Ezekiel 11:23 And the GLORY OF THE LORD WENT UP FROM THE MIDST OF THE CITY, and stood upon the mountain which [is] on the east side of the city.
What a sad commentary. Because of the sins and idolatry of God's people, the Glory of God was driven from its place, from the SANCTUARY, from the THRESHOLD of His House--even from the MIDST OF HIS CITY. It left by degrees--hoping that the people would sense its departure, and stop their wickedness. THEY DID NOT.
A British Evangelist told us some time ago that we had driven God from His Sanctuary, and set up in His place the idol of entertainment. Can this be true?
I am afraid it is so.
Happily, the story doesn't stop there. There is a group known as the heathen who are being ministered to by the Glory of God.
Ezekiel 39:21 And I will set my glory among the heathen, and all the heathen shall see my judgment that I have executed, and my hand that I have laid upon them.
The good news is that in God's time, the Glory shall again be set in the midst of His people, but not until there has been a THOROUGH REPENTANCE FROM SIN AND IDOLATRY.
Listen to Eze 43:2 And, behold, the glory of the God of Israel came from the way of the east: and his voice [was] like a noise of many waters: and the earth shined with his glory. Ezekiel 43:4 AND THE GLORY OF THE LORD CAME INTO THE HOUSE BY THE WAY OF THE GATE WHOSE PROSPECT [IS] TOWARD THE EAST.
Yes, there is a real restoration coming to the Church. GOD'S GLORY SHALL FILL HIS HOUSE.
Ezekiel 43:5 So the spirit took me up, and brought me into the inner court; and, behold, THE GLORY OF THE LORD FILLED THE HOUSE.
Ezekiel 44:4 Then brought he me the way of the north gate, and, behold, THE GLORY OF THE LORD FILLED THE HOUSE OF THE LORD: and I fell upon my face.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
VIOLENCE
VIOLENCE
Today is April 25, 2007 11:40 AM. The media is high lighting violence these days.
Probably there is not a big surge of violence, but it is being pushed to the front burner so something can be done about it.
There can be no doubt that violence in the street is bad, and needs attention. It should have been dealt with long ago. It has been there a long time.
However, there is another arena where violence of a slightly different sort has long been in existance.
It is in the Church of the Living God.
I asked Strong's Concordance about Matthew 11:12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.
Look what it tells me!
"Until now" brings out the thought of "henceforth", more than just the time in which Jesus was speaking. It still exists today. #2193 and #737
"Suffereth violence" comes from #971, which means to "crowd oneself into", or to "seize by violence."
"Violent" describes a forcer. My description would be "brutish". #973
"Take it", #726, means to seize by force, or to wrest from its righful owner. It is derived from #138 which means to take for oneself, for one's own benefit.
These definitions seem to portray an entirely different meaning than has commonly been applied.
A look at Church history seems to bear out the meaning of the words Jesus used. (He knew the Greek language, and could have used different words, had He so desired.)
Shortly after His ascension, men began to "jockey for positions". Indeed, before His crucifixion, two of His disciples displayed a desire for pre-eminence in the Kingdom. It is a very common trait of human nature to desire authority and power over others. In fact, it is the third strongest desire of the human heart, to conquer, subdue, or to win.
The "violent seizing" was in full bloom before two hundred years had passed.
One end result was the spawning of the Universal (Catholic) church, with all of the mis-uses of humanity which followed.
We have often been told that it was this church which preserved the Gospel through the dark ages which followed.
May I submit to you that the dark ages were CAUSED by violent men forcefully seizing the Headship of the Church. That Headship belonged ONLY to the Holy Ghost. They wrested it from Him by violently asserting dominion over God's Heritage. It is still being done today, not only by the ancient church, but by others.
The book of the Revelation describes that church as the "mother of harlots." She has many daughters "running the streets" of humanity today.
God's Heritage is captive to several "nations" (denominations) today, each with its own set of rules and regulations, and each claiming to be "the real and only church of God. Each has its own methods of bringing its members into subjection and fear, lest they escape its control.
Perhaps the most troubling aspect of the situation is what Jeremiah described in writing about the leaders of the people in ancient times. Jeremiah 5:31 The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; (by force, terror--#3027) and my people love [to have it] so: and what will ye do in the end thereof?
The people seem to love it this way.
Today is April 25, 2007 11:40 AM. The media is high lighting violence these days.
Probably there is not a big surge of violence, but it is being pushed to the front burner so something can be done about it.
There can be no doubt that violence in the street is bad, and needs attention. It should have been dealt with long ago. It has been there a long time.
However, there is another arena where violence of a slightly different sort has long been in existance.
It is in the Church of the Living God.
I asked Strong's Concordance about Matthew 11:12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.
Look what it tells me!
"Until now" brings out the thought of "henceforth", more than just the time in which Jesus was speaking. It still exists today. #2193 and #737
"Suffereth violence" comes from #971, which means to "crowd oneself into", or to "seize by violence."
"Violent" describes a forcer. My description would be "brutish". #973
"Take it", #726, means to seize by force, or to wrest from its righful owner. It is derived from #138 which means to take for oneself, for one's own benefit.
These definitions seem to portray an entirely different meaning than has commonly been applied.
A look at Church history seems to bear out the meaning of the words Jesus used. (He knew the Greek language, and could have used different words, had He so desired.)
Shortly after His ascension, men began to "jockey for positions". Indeed, before His crucifixion, two of His disciples displayed a desire for pre-eminence in the Kingdom. It is a very common trait of human nature to desire authority and power over others. In fact, it is the third strongest desire of the human heart, to conquer, subdue, or to win.
The "violent seizing" was in full bloom before two hundred years had passed.
One end result was the spawning of the Universal (Catholic) church, with all of the mis-uses of humanity which followed.
We have often been told that it was this church which preserved the Gospel through the dark ages which followed.
May I submit to you that the dark ages were CAUSED by violent men forcefully seizing the Headship of the Church. That Headship belonged ONLY to the Holy Ghost. They wrested it from Him by violently asserting dominion over God's Heritage. It is still being done today, not only by the ancient church, but by others.
The book of the Revelation describes that church as the "mother of harlots." She has many daughters "running the streets" of humanity today.
God's Heritage is captive to several "nations" (denominations) today, each with its own set of rules and regulations, and each claiming to be "the real and only church of God. Each has its own methods of bringing its members into subjection and fear, lest they escape its control.
Perhaps the most troubling aspect of the situation is what Jeremiah described in writing about the leaders of the people in ancient times. Jeremiah 5:31 The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; (by force, terror--#3027) and my people love [to have it] so: and what will ye do in the end thereof?
The people seem to love it this way.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
UNTIL THE DAY DAWN
UNTIL THE DAY DAWN
II Peter 1:19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:
I am convinced that the early Apostles knew something about God's plan for the ages that they were unable to convey by the written Word which they left to us. I am very aware that we DO NOT HAVE a truly Spiritual understanding of what the Bible is trying to tell us.
I marvel at the tolerance and patience of the Almighty, when He watches the antics and maneuverings of mankind, in their mis-interpretations, and mis-understandings of His Purposes, and hence, their mis-teachings.
Most of the problem, I believe, is the result of men trying to understand God's Word with their own minds. It can NEVER be done. The Word of God is SPIRITUAL, and hence must be interpreted and discerned by the Same Spirit which caused the men of old to write as they did.
Many years ago, in a Wednesday night Bible Study session, an old Swedish brother opened up with some scriptures that held us spell bound as the Spirit, through him, caused a light to dawn in our hearts.
The subject we were discussing was, "Is this all there is, or should we be looking for something else from God?"
Certainly, there is something else, much better, that we can look forward to, and work toward in our Christian development. But only those individuals who are "pressing the gates" of Spiritual Development will take part in what God will unveil shortly. It is not for the casual Christian. It is not for the uncaring follower, who is satisfied that he is "saved from wrath."
The old Swede told us that we will NEVER "stub our toe" on Truth. We will be LOOKING FOR IT when we find it. He also told us that we can STOP AT ANY LEVEL OF TRUTH we choose. This has given rise to the many denominations we have in the Christian world today. People choose a "comfortable" level of development, and stay there.
But, there is much more out there than we are seeing today. It CAN BE REVEALED to the hungry heart, but NEVER to the full, satisfied heart. Let's look at a few scriptures.
One is the prophecy of Balaam, when God had a "hammerlock" on him. His she ass had just spoken to him on the way, and he had the "fear of God" in him.
Numbers 24:17 I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth.
Solomon prophesied about the "breaking of the day", a time of great brightness will cover the world, in behalf of a group of believers who are "beloved of the Lord".
Song of Solomon 2:17 Until the day break, and the shadows flee away, turn, my beloved, and be thou like a roe or a young hart upon the mountains of Bether.
Song of Solomon 4:6 Until the day break, and the shadows flee away, I will get me to the mountain of myrrh, and to the hill of frankincense.
Hosea wrote of a people who should be given knowledge-- if they follow on to know the Lord. This is not mere Salvation.
Hosea 6:3 Then shall we know, [if] we follow on to know the LORD: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter [and] former rain unto the earth.
Zechariah was caused to prophesy an encouragement to the workers who were restoring the House of the Lord after the seventy years of Babylonian captivity. But his prophecy extended far beyond the time in which they were working. It gave the promise of a coming PEOPLE OF GOD the BRANCH.
Zechariah 3:8 Hear now, O Joshua the high priest, thou, and thy fellows that sit before thee: for they [are] men wondered at: for, behold, I will bring forth my servant the BRANCH.
The prophecy goes on to tell us something about a popular fallacy being propagated today-- that of the Temple being rebuilt in our times by the hands and finances of men and organizations (powers).
Zechariah 6:12 And speak unto him, saying, Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Behold the man whose name [is] The BRANCH; and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the temple of the LORD:
Can you imagine the Lord Jesus Christ donning overalls and a tool sack on his hip, laying bricks or stones for a temple in Jerusalem? No, that is NOT what it means at all!
No! Never! The building of the Lord, the BRANCH, is not with hammer and nails, but with the souls of redeemed men and women who have pressed into God, and have been counted worthy.
I Peter 2:5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 2:21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:
Zechariah 6:13 Even he shall build the temple of the LORD; and he shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon his throne; and he shall be a priest upon his throne: and the counsel of peace shall be between them both.
Zechariah 8:8 And I will bring them, and they shall dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God, in truth and in righteousness.
Will all of those people migrate to Jerusalem? No! Never! This JERUSALEM is the CITY FOURSQUARE which is being built RIGHT NOW by the hand of the Lord.
Malachi 4:2 But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall.
The slothful Christian will never see it. It is prepared for the OVERCOMERS.
II Peter 1:19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:
I am convinced that the early Apostles knew something about God's plan for the ages that they were unable to convey by the written Word which they left to us. I am very aware that we DO NOT HAVE a truly Spiritual understanding of what the Bible is trying to tell us.
I marvel at the tolerance and patience of the Almighty, when He watches the antics and maneuverings of mankind, in their mis-interpretations, and mis-understandings of His Purposes, and hence, their mis-teachings.
Most of the problem, I believe, is the result of men trying to understand God's Word with their own minds. It can NEVER be done. The Word of God is SPIRITUAL, and hence must be interpreted and discerned by the Same Spirit which caused the men of old to write as they did.
Many years ago, in a Wednesday night Bible Study session, an old Swedish brother opened up with some scriptures that held us spell bound as the Spirit, through him, caused a light to dawn in our hearts.
The subject we were discussing was, "Is this all there is, or should we be looking for something else from God?"
Certainly, there is something else, much better, that we can look forward to, and work toward in our Christian development. But only those individuals who are "pressing the gates" of Spiritual Development will take part in what God will unveil shortly. It is not for the casual Christian. It is not for the uncaring follower, who is satisfied that he is "saved from wrath."
The old Swede told us that we will NEVER "stub our toe" on Truth. We will be LOOKING FOR IT when we find it. He also told us that we can STOP AT ANY LEVEL OF TRUTH we choose. This has given rise to the many denominations we have in the Christian world today. People choose a "comfortable" level of development, and stay there.
But, there is much more out there than we are seeing today. It CAN BE REVEALED to the hungry heart, but NEVER to the full, satisfied heart. Let's look at a few scriptures.
One is the prophecy of Balaam, when God had a "hammerlock" on him. His she ass had just spoken to him on the way, and he had the "fear of God" in him.
Numbers 24:17 I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth.
Solomon prophesied about the "breaking of the day", a time of great brightness will cover the world, in behalf of a group of believers who are "beloved of the Lord".
Song of Solomon 2:17 Until the day break, and the shadows flee away, turn, my beloved, and be thou like a roe or a young hart upon the mountains of Bether.
Song of Solomon 4:6 Until the day break, and the shadows flee away, I will get me to the mountain of myrrh, and to the hill of frankincense.
Hosea wrote of a people who should be given knowledge-- if they follow on to know the Lord. This is not mere Salvation.
Hosea 6:3 Then shall we know, [if] we follow on to know the LORD: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter [and] former rain unto the earth.
Zechariah was caused to prophesy an encouragement to the workers who were restoring the House of the Lord after the seventy years of Babylonian captivity. But his prophecy extended far beyond the time in which they were working. It gave the promise of a coming PEOPLE OF GOD the BRANCH.
Zechariah 3:8 Hear now, O Joshua the high priest, thou, and thy fellows that sit before thee: for they [are] men wondered at: for, behold, I will bring forth my servant the BRANCH.
The prophecy goes on to tell us something about a popular fallacy being propagated today-- that of the Temple being rebuilt in our times by the hands and finances of men and organizations (powers).
Zechariah 6:12 And speak unto him, saying, Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Behold the man whose name [is] The BRANCH; and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the temple of the LORD:
Can you imagine the Lord Jesus Christ donning overalls and a tool sack on his hip, laying bricks or stones for a temple in Jerusalem? No, that is NOT what it means at all!
No! Never! The building of the Lord, the BRANCH, is not with hammer and nails, but with the souls of redeemed men and women who have pressed into God, and have been counted worthy.
I Peter 2:5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 2:21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:
Zechariah 6:13 Even he shall build the temple of the LORD; and he shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon his throne; and he shall be a priest upon his throne: and the counsel of peace shall be between them both.
Zechariah 8:8 And I will bring them, and they shall dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God, in truth and in righteousness.
Will all of those people migrate to Jerusalem? No! Never! This JERUSALEM is the CITY FOURSQUARE which is being built RIGHT NOW by the hand of the Lord.
Malachi 4:2 But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall.
The slothful Christian will never see it. It is prepared for the OVERCOMERS.
Monday, April 23, 2007
TRUE WORSHIP
TRUE WORSHIP
The Spring of 1951 has lingered in my memory because of the experiences I had then. I was a young man then, full of zeal which often over ran what wisdom I had.
God had done a new thing in the earth a few months prior, which was called the "Latter Rain" for lack of a better means of identification. It had started in a Bible School in North Battleford, Sask. It spread quickly, though the brethren in charge of the Bible School had not tried to advertise what was taking place.
They did not put a name on it-- that was done later by the folks south of the border. It caused some irritation to the Canadian brothers, but it was quickly out of their hands.
They were awed by the magnitude of the move in their midst, and vowed to never try to control what God had started in their school. This idea prevailed for a long time, but human nature being what it is, the resolve would, in time, be over ruled by the need for some sort of human guidance. Not that God had desired it, but the men felt it was getting out of hand, and would miss the mark of what they thought it was intended to accomplish.
In attempting to "guide" the "Move of God", they inadvertently found themselves at the "head" of what was to become another "machine made by Gene."
It was just as well, for there were several other "Genes" who "made a machine" from that same moving of God's hand. Some of the more prominent ones were in Detroit, Portland, and Vancouver, BC. There were many more to follow, scattered over the globe.
Each "machine" was cranking out different ideas of what the "revival" was all about. Ideologies were flying like birds in the air, thick enough to "darken" the light of what God was trying to do in the earth.
The Canadian folks held a "Feast of Pentecost" convention each Spring. Ralph Megrew and I went in 1951, driving his new Studebaker car.
At Edmonton we were informed that the main road to North Battleford was under water from melting snow. There was another road (unpaved) above water, so we started out. It was about five hours normally, but the frost was coming out of the ground, and the rolls kept us from making good time. Midnight.
It was at that Feast of Pentecost that I caught a glimpse of the true meaning of God's people gathering to worship Him.
My sleeping room was in an office adjoining the auditorium where the services were held. The building was an old Army barracks. Their "pews" were planks on various types of supports, with no back rests. Yet, each morning shortly after six o'clock people started gathering. Some prayed while others worshipped. By nine o'clock there was standing room only.
No one talked to their neighbors or friends, yet there was a steady sound of worship to God. A chorus would be started, and everyone joined in (all without instruments) for a round or two of that chorus. Then the steady sound of worship would resume for a while until someone else started a chorus. This continued from the first people into the auditorium until when the leaders came in at ten o'clock to start the service. There was no need for a "warm up" with a song service. They started teaching right away.
I determined while there that I would try to train the folks in Yakima to do the same. When I returned, we STRONGLY discouraged any talking in the sanctuary before service. We URGED the folks to begin worshipping when they entered the building. Before long, we had them fairly well trained this way, and it sure did change the atmosphere when we gathered.
Believe it or not, I could often tell who had come in to the building by the "atmosphere" which accompanied them as they entered to worship. I always sat on the front row, and never looked back. Those were awe inspiring times-- precious to us.
God honored our reverence in the House of God by stretching forth His Hand to perform various miracles from time to time.
The Spring of 1951 has lingered in my memory because of the experiences I had then. I was a young man then, full of zeal which often over ran what wisdom I had.
God had done a new thing in the earth a few months prior, which was called the "Latter Rain" for lack of a better means of identification. It had started in a Bible School in North Battleford, Sask. It spread quickly, though the brethren in charge of the Bible School had not tried to advertise what was taking place.
They did not put a name on it-- that was done later by the folks south of the border. It caused some irritation to the Canadian brothers, but it was quickly out of their hands.
They were awed by the magnitude of the move in their midst, and vowed to never try to control what God had started in their school. This idea prevailed for a long time, but human nature being what it is, the resolve would, in time, be over ruled by the need for some sort of human guidance. Not that God had desired it, but the men felt it was getting out of hand, and would miss the mark of what they thought it was intended to accomplish.
In attempting to "guide" the "Move of God", they inadvertently found themselves at the "head" of what was to become another "machine made by Gene."
It was just as well, for there were several other "Genes" who "made a machine" from that same moving of God's hand. Some of the more prominent ones were in Detroit, Portland, and Vancouver, BC. There were many more to follow, scattered over the globe.
Each "machine" was cranking out different ideas of what the "revival" was all about. Ideologies were flying like birds in the air, thick enough to "darken" the light of what God was trying to do in the earth.
The Canadian folks held a "Feast of Pentecost" convention each Spring. Ralph Megrew and I went in 1951, driving his new Studebaker car.
At Edmonton we were informed that the main road to North Battleford was under water from melting snow. There was another road (unpaved) above water, so we started out. It was about five hours normally, but the frost was coming out of the ground, and the rolls kept us from making good time. Midnight.
It was at that Feast of Pentecost that I caught a glimpse of the true meaning of God's people gathering to worship Him.
My sleeping room was in an office adjoining the auditorium where the services were held. The building was an old Army barracks. Their "pews" were planks on various types of supports, with no back rests. Yet, each morning shortly after six o'clock people started gathering. Some prayed while others worshipped. By nine o'clock there was standing room only.
No one talked to their neighbors or friends, yet there was a steady sound of worship to God. A chorus would be started, and everyone joined in (all without instruments) for a round or two of that chorus. Then the steady sound of worship would resume for a while until someone else started a chorus. This continued from the first people into the auditorium until when the leaders came in at ten o'clock to start the service. There was no need for a "warm up" with a song service. They started teaching right away.
I determined while there that I would try to train the folks in Yakima to do the same. When I returned, we STRONGLY discouraged any talking in the sanctuary before service. We URGED the folks to begin worshipping when they entered the building. Before long, we had them fairly well trained this way, and it sure did change the atmosphere when we gathered.
Believe it or not, I could often tell who had come in to the building by the "atmosphere" which accompanied them as they entered to worship. I always sat on the front row, and never looked back. Those were awe inspiring times-- precious to us.
God honored our reverence in the House of God by stretching forth His Hand to perform various miracles from time to time.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
THY FOOTSTOOL
Last night I was musing about the terrible struggles our early Church fathers endured while trying to formulate Church Doctrine about the relationship Jesus had to His Father.
There were two or three main teachings that were in conflict, and the Emperor Constantine wanted, desperately, to bring about a consensus of doctrine, so the Church could progress in the work of evangelism. The infighting over doctrine was producing nothing but chaos and turmoil. The various Bishops were resorting to physical assaults and property damage on each other when their views of the Godhead were opposed. Character assassinations were more normal than abnormal.
Constantine died before he could solidify Church Doctrine. The infighting seemed to get worse with each effort he made. The Bishops were fighting carnally, trying to solve a Spiritual problem. It didn’t work then—it will not work now. It was only after three or four more emperors had tried and failed, and three to five decades worth of water had gone under the bridge, and a major Church split had occurred, that even a semblance of unified teaching was found. AND IT STILL WAS NOT CORRECT. It had been formulated by the minds of men rather than by the Spirit of God.
Suddenly, “out of the blue”, came a verse of scripture I had not thought of for months:
Psa 110:1 A Psalm of David. The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.
Thee are several places in scripture where David’s writing is reiterated, and it always seems to be pointing to Jesus Christ. I’ll print them out for you here.
Mat 22:44 The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool?
Mar 12:36 For David himself said by the Holy Ghost, the LORD said to my LORD, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool.
Luk 20:41 And he said unto them, How say they that Christ is David's son?
Luk 20:42 And David himself saith in the book of Psalms, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand,
Luk 20:43 Till I make thine enemies thy footstool.
Luk 20:44 David therefore calleth him Lord, how is he then his son?
Heb 1:13 But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool?
Heb 10:12 But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down on the right hand of God;
Heb 10:13 From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.
Before I was finished with my musings, I had digressed from the original subject entirely, and was ready to argue the point of who is going to get the job of evangelization done.
Most Evangelists, and many Pastors, seem to leave us with the impression that “we, the people” will accomplish the task with our tithes and offerings and witnessing to our neighbors and friends. They tell us that our method needs to be “fine tuned”.
There can be no doubt in our minds about whether the world will be turned to Jesus Christ before our earth is “folded up” or replaced by another one. That fact is well established by the scriptures (with due apologies to Hal Lindsey, and others). We can fully expect that nearly one whole generation, along with a good share of another generation, will turn to the Lord through Jesus Christ before the final curtain falls on this age.
It is “in the Book” if you will look for it. You will first have to discard some of the former teachings about the future course of events, or you will never be able to clearly see what the Word of God is trying to tell us.
The Bible tells us (James 3:16) “But where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.”
Church history witnesses to a constant strife between factions endeavoring to promote the doctrinal system which they favored, and also the church political system which seemed more correct in their eyes. It qualifies to be classified in the “Strife” section. There was little or no lasting Good produced during those sessions of turmoil.
It is little wonder that a great abundance of incorrect teaching should evolve from such a condition within the Church when so much confusion, envying and strife prevailed. How could they expect to be receiving Revelations of the Spirit of God when they were indulging their carnal natures to such an extent as they were? Impossible then, impossible now. We need to repent
But “Who, How, and When” must be dealt with before we can get a clear picture of the situation at hand.
First “Who?” must be answered. I think most of us will agree that it is Almighty God who is making the assertion about His right hand, and Jesus Christ’s enemies being made His Footstool.
Does Jesus have enemies? If so, who are they? “Yes, Virginia, Jesus has enemies, and they are getting desperate as we approach the closing of this age.
If Jesus is to be crowned the Victor, what will happen to the “hero” they worship and pay homage to? They know, and they don’t like it… not at all. The fanatical spirit they are following shows them all kinds of ways to cause havoc and terror.
Their “guiding spirit” is in panic mode… fighting for its life.
I think we will all agree that these false religions, all of them, are following, and being driven by, a wicked spirit that HATES our God with a passion
Our God is quietly going about His business of convicting, convincing and saving great hordes of people in different parts of the earth… every minute, every hour and every day.
The Church is growing by leaps and bounds in spite of all they can do to hinder it. Also, in spite of the prevalent teachings that the Church will become so terribly decimated by demonic forces that it will have to be snatched away from planet earth to prevent it from being completely annihilated by evil forces.
The “footstool” is being prepared by the LIVING GOD for HIS SON, JESUS CHRIST.
Mankind can only hope to have a part in the process as we lay down our carnal ways of doing things, and learn how to follow the guidelines of His Spi. The programs and schemes of Man will do nothing more than get in the way of what God is (is) doing, and have to be shoved out of the way by the Spirit of God.
Strife produces NOTHING GOOD. Likewise, ENVYING DOES NOTHING that is Spiritually constructive. Confusion and evil works are the ONLY things produced by our carnally motivated efforts.
The only productive activity on our part is that which stems from, and is in harmony with, the Spirit of God. There are definite guidelines for Spiritual endeavor, and they must be followed if there is to be any hope for success.
“If any man strive for the masteries, yet is he not crowned except he strive lawfully.” (2Ti 2:5)
Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. (Zec 4:6) “I WILL BUILD MY CHURCH.”
Hab 1:5 Behold ye among the heathen, and regard, and wonder marvelously: FOR I WILL WORK A WORK IN YOUR DAYS, WHICH YE WILL NOT BELIEVE, THOUGH IT BE TOLD YOU.
Isa 29:14 Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvelous work among this people, even a marvelous work and a wonder: for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hid.
Isa 44:3 For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring:
Isa 44:4 And they shall spring up as among the grass, as willows by the water courses.
Zec 12:9 And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem. (THE CHURCH)
Zec 12:10 And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for his firstborn.
Isa 4:4 When the Lord shall have washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion, and shall have purged the blood of Jerusalem from the midst thereof by the spirit of judgment, and by the spirit of burning.
God is well able to accomplish whatever will be necessary when the time is ripe for His Plan to be fulfilled.
That plan calls for a world-wide awakening to Jesus Christ, which will affect the greater portions of two generations of humanity. An extremely high ratio of people will hear and respond to the Spirit of God when He calls to them.
The Bible tells us that the Lord will SEND REAPERS TO REAP A HARVEST at the proper time. We can “go to the bank” with that.
Rev 22:16 I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.
Rev 22:17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.
Joh 12:32 And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.
Rom 15:12 And again, Isaiah saith, There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust.
Psa 72:11 Yea, all kings shall fall down before him: all nations shall serve him.
Isa 2:2 And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the LORD's house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it.
Isa 49:6 And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth.
There were two or three main teachings that were in conflict, and the Emperor Constantine wanted, desperately, to bring about a consensus of doctrine, so the Church could progress in the work of evangelism. The infighting over doctrine was producing nothing but chaos and turmoil. The various Bishops were resorting to physical assaults and property damage on each other when their views of the Godhead were opposed. Character assassinations were more normal than abnormal.
Constantine died before he could solidify Church Doctrine. The infighting seemed to get worse with each effort he made. The Bishops were fighting carnally, trying to solve a Spiritual problem. It didn’t work then—it will not work now. It was only after three or four more emperors had tried and failed, and three to five decades worth of water had gone under the bridge, and a major Church split had occurred, that even a semblance of unified teaching was found. AND IT STILL WAS NOT CORRECT. It had been formulated by the minds of men rather than by the Spirit of God.
Suddenly, “out of the blue”, came a verse of scripture I had not thought of for months:
Psa 110:1 A Psalm of David. The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.
Thee are several places in scripture where David’s writing is reiterated, and it always seems to be pointing to Jesus Christ. I’ll print them out for you here.
Mat 22:44 The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool?
Mar 12:36 For David himself said by the Holy Ghost, the LORD said to my LORD, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool.
Luk 20:41 And he said unto them, How say they that Christ is David's son?
Luk 20:42 And David himself saith in the book of Psalms, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand,
Luk 20:43 Till I make thine enemies thy footstool.
Luk 20:44 David therefore calleth him Lord, how is he then his son?
Heb 1:13 But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool?
Heb 10:12 But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down on the right hand of God;
Heb 10:13 From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.
Before I was finished with my musings, I had digressed from the original subject entirely, and was ready to argue the point of who is going to get the job of evangelization done.
Most Evangelists, and many Pastors, seem to leave us with the impression that “we, the people” will accomplish the task with our tithes and offerings and witnessing to our neighbors and friends. They tell us that our method needs to be “fine tuned”.
There can be no doubt in our minds about whether the world will be turned to Jesus Christ before our earth is “folded up” or replaced by another one. That fact is well established by the scriptures (with due apologies to Hal Lindsey, and others). We can fully expect that nearly one whole generation, along with a good share of another generation, will turn to the Lord through Jesus Christ before the final curtain falls on this age.
It is “in the Book” if you will look for it. You will first have to discard some of the former teachings about the future course of events, or you will never be able to clearly see what the Word of God is trying to tell us.
The Bible tells us (James 3:16) “But where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.”
Church history witnesses to a constant strife between factions endeavoring to promote the doctrinal system which they favored, and also the church political system which seemed more correct in their eyes. It qualifies to be classified in the “Strife” section. There was little or no lasting Good produced during those sessions of turmoil.
It is little wonder that a great abundance of incorrect teaching should evolve from such a condition within the Church when so much confusion, envying and strife prevailed. How could they expect to be receiving Revelations of the Spirit of God when they were indulging their carnal natures to such an extent as they were? Impossible then, impossible now. We need to repent
But “Who, How, and When” must be dealt with before we can get a clear picture of the situation at hand.
First “Who?” must be answered. I think most of us will agree that it is Almighty God who is making the assertion about His right hand, and Jesus Christ’s enemies being made His Footstool.
Does Jesus have enemies? If so, who are they? “Yes, Virginia, Jesus has enemies, and they are getting desperate as we approach the closing of this age.
If Jesus is to be crowned the Victor, what will happen to the “hero” they worship and pay homage to? They know, and they don’t like it… not at all. The fanatical spirit they are following shows them all kinds of ways to cause havoc and terror.
Their “guiding spirit” is in panic mode… fighting for its life.
I think we will all agree that these false religions, all of them, are following, and being driven by, a wicked spirit that HATES our God with a passion
Our God is quietly going about His business of convicting, convincing and saving great hordes of people in different parts of the earth… every minute, every hour and every day.
The Church is growing by leaps and bounds in spite of all they can do to hinder it. Also, in spite of the prevalent teachings that the Church will become so terribly decimated by demonic forces that it will have to be snatched away from planet earth to prevent it from being completely annihilated by evil forces.
The “footstool” is being prepared by the LIVING GOD for HIS SON, JESUS CHRIST.
Mankind can only hope to have a part in the process as we lay down our carnal ways of doing things, and learn how to follow the guidelines of His Spi. The programs and schemes of Man will do nothing more than get in the way of what God is (is) doing, and have to be shoved out of the way by the Spirit of God.
Strife produces NOTHING GOOD. Likewise, ENVYING DOES NOTHING that is Spiritually constructive. Confusion and evil works are the ONLY things produced by our carnally motivated efforts.
The only productive activity on our part is that which stems from, and is in harmony with, the Spirit of God. There are definite guidelines for Spiritual endeavor, and they must be followed if there is to be any hope for success.
“If any man strive for the masteries, yet is he not crowned except he strive lawfully.” (2Ti 2:5)
Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. (Zec 4:6) “I WILL BUILD MY CHURCH.”
Hab 1:5 Behold ye among the heathen, and regard, and wonder marvelously: FOR I WILL WORK A WORK IN YOUR DAYS, WHICH YE WILL NOT BELIEVE, THOUGH IT BE TOLD YOU.
Isa 29:14 Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvelous work among this people, even a marvelous work and a wonder: for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hid.
Isa 44:3 For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring:
Isa 44:4 And they shall spring up as among the grass, as willows by the water courses.
Zec 12:9 And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem. (THE CHURCH)
Zec 12:10 And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for his firstborn.
Isa 4:4 When the Lord shall have washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion, and shall have purged the blood of Jerusalem from the midst thereof by the spirit of judgment, and by the spirit of burning.
God is well able to accomplish whatever will be necessary when the time is ripe for His Plan to be fulfilled.
That plan calls for a world-wide awakening to Jesus Christ, which will affect the greater portions of two generations of humanity. An extremely high ratio of people will hear and respond to the Spirit of God when He calls to them.
The Bible tells us that the Lord will SEND REAPERS TO REAP A HARVEST at the proper time. We can “go to the bank” with that.
Rev 22:16 I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.
Rev 22:17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.
Joh 12:32 And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.
Rom 15:12 And again, Isaiah saith, There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust.
Psa 72:11 Yea, all kings shall fall down before him: all nations shall serve him.
Isa 2:2 And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the LORD's house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it.
Isa 49:6 And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth.
Saturday, April 21, 2007
SPIRIT CONTROL
SPIRIT CONTROL
One of the first things we learned, after embracing the LATTER RAIN revival in 1950 was the difference between the APOSTLES OF THE LAMB, and the APOSTLES OF THE FIVE-FOLD MINISTRIES-- the ASCENSION GIFT MINISTRIES.
The APOSTLES OF THE LAMB were those chosen by Jesus Himself, to be witnesses of His Life and Death. They WALKED with Him, and TALKED with Him. They were TAUGHT of Him. They were to become the PATRIARCHS of the New Covenant, as the twelve sons of Israel had been the PATRIARCHS of the Old Covenant.
Each set of PATRIARCHS would have a PERMANENT place in the CELESTIAL CITY which is being formed now by the SPIRIT OF GOD. One set of twelve were to be the FOUNDATIONS OF THE CITY, the other set of twelve were to be GATES OF THE CITY. It was strongly suggested that the FOUR AND TWENTY ELDERS around the Throne in the book of Revelation are these two sets of twelve Apostles
We went through several phases of misunderstanding and mis-use of what we were learning, and many became discouraged and returned to the safer environment of the denominations.
Personally, I have never regretted the mistakes which were made, for each mistake was mute evidence of an honest attempt to learn more of the ways of the Spirit. We knew we were in uncharted waters, and that we had to be VERY CAREFUL of every move. Those who rushed headlong into something new usually ended up as a broken hull somewhere, and contributed to the growing stigma on the movement in general.
It was a genuine move of the Spirit, however, and became the springboard for greater things by far than had initially been anticipated by any of us.
Later, we were to learn of the difference between PRAISE and WORSHIP, and the unique purpose of each of them.
We would also learn about SPIRIT CONTROL of our meetings, and how to reap the benefits from it. It was a real TEST OF OUR FAITH, and many failed the test.
We have been so very THANKFUL to God for having let us taste of what He did in the very late 40's and the early 50's. We praise Him for His Mercy to us.
One of the first things we learned, after embracing the LATTER RAIN revival in 1950 was the difference between the APOSTLES OF THE LAMB, and the APOSTLES OF THE FIVE-FOLD MINISTRIES-- the ASCENSION GIFT MINISTRIES.
The APOSTLES OF THE LAMB were those chosen by Jesus Himself, to be witnesses of His Life and Death. They WALKED with Him, and TALKED with Him. They were TAUGHT of Him. They were to become the PATRIARCHS of the New Covenant, as the twelve sons of Israel had been the PATRIARCHS of the Old Covenant.
Each set of PATRIARCHS would have a PERMANENT place in the CELESTIAL CITY which is being formed now by the SPIRIT OF GOD. One set of twelve were to be the FOUNDATIONS OF THE CITY, the other set of twelve were to be GATES OF THE CITY. It was strongly suggested that the FOUR AND TWENTY ELDERS around the Throne in the book of Revelation are these two sets of twelve Apostles
We went through several phases of misunderstanding and mis-use of what we were learning, and many became discouraged and returned to the safer environment of the denominations.
Personally, I have never regretted the mistakes which were made, for each mistake was mute evidence of an honest attempt to learn more of the ways of the Spirit. We knew we were in uncharted waters, and that we had to be VERY CAREFUL of every move. Those who rushed headlong into something new usually ended up as a broken hull somewhere, and contributed to the growing stigma on the movement in general.
It was a genuine move of the Spirit, however, and became the springboard for greater things by far than had initially been anticipated by any of us.
Later, we were to learn of the difference between PRAISE and WORSHIP, and the unique purpose of each of them.
We would also learn about SPIRIT CONTROL of our meetings, and how to reap the benefits from it. It was a real TEST OF OUR FAITH, and many failed the test.
We have been so very THANKFUL to God for having let us taste of what He did in the very late 40's and the early 50's. We praise Him for His Mercy to us.
Friday, April 20, 2007
FROM EMAILS
I have accumulated an enormous amount of material in the form of emails to people who have asked me about events that I have witnessed and/or participated in over the span of time Pearl and I have been in Pentecost. Pearl came into the experience of Holy Ghost Baptism in 1931. I did not receive the experience until 1938, though I had been exposed to Pentecost since 1924. I am not too proud of my teen years, but am sure happy about what God has done in my life since 1938.
Following are some pieces of correspondence from the Internet.
THE OVERCOMERS
Pearl and I have been rather busy of late, so I have not been responsive to the posts about the group of believers who are referred to as being the "OVERCOMERS."
I would like to, now, respond, if I may. And, since it is one of my favorite topics, I may get a bit long winded, and you might find it profitable to print this out for future reference.
First, it is necessary to establish the difference between being SAVED, and becoming an OVERCOMER, or coming to MATURITY in our Christian walk
John 1:12 states But as many as received him, to them gave he power (the right, privilege, opportunity) to BECOME (develop, grow up into) the SONS (huios-- fully developed) of God, [even] to them that believe on his name:
In other words, SALVATION (whatever your understanding of it is) is the STARTING POINT in our life as a Christian. When we receive the Baptism of the Holy Ghost, we are given a VERY SMALL allotment of the Eternal Spirit which spoke the worlds into existence. Eph 1:13,14 tells us that we are SEALED with that Holy Spirit of Promise, but that it is ONLY AN EARNEST of what we can attain to, if we "do our homework" from that beginning.
The REDEMPTION OF THE PURCHASED POSSESSION spoken of here is referring to an experience which is attainable in mortality, rather than in immortality-- as we have formerly been taught.
This REDEMPTION OF THE PURCHASED POSSESSION is mentioned in Romans 8:23 And not only [they], but ourselves also, which have the FIRSTFRUIT of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the ADOPTION, [to wit], the REDEMPTION OF OUR BODY. The Baptism of the Holy Ghost DID NOT PARTIALLY IMMORTALIZE US. So, the REDEMPTION (buying back, restoring) will only affect the human mortal body.
WHEN WE RECEIVE THE HOLY GHOST, a work is STARTED in our spirits which is the essence of the finger of God BEGINNING to write HIS DESIRES on the tables of our hearts. The process of guiding us into the TRUTH is HELPED or HINDERED in direct ratio to our RESPONSES to the voice of the Spirit as we acquaint ourselves with the Word of God. IT IS NOT AUTOMATIC.
John 16:13 Howbeit when he, the SPIRIT OF TRUTH, is come, he will GUIDE you into ALL TRUTH: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, [that] shall he speak: AND HE WILL SHEW YOU THINGS TO COME.
It is a sad reality that multitudes of people who are GENUINELY SAVED have never caught a glimpse of the possibilities of development in God, and the REWARDS which accompany that development.
ADOPTION is one of those REWARDS. We are battling against the element of TIME in receiving both the ADOPTION and THE PRIZE OF THE HIGH CALLING OF GOD IN CHRIST JESUS. Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Notice that Paul said he HAD NOT YET ATTAINED, NEITHER WAS ALREADY PERFECT (MATURE, COMPLETE), but there was ONE THING I DO. I "FOLLOW AFTER"-- a very strong word in the Greek, and "I PRESS TOWARD THE MARK"-- another very strong expression of intense desire.
Now, let me remind you that Paul was "SAVED" in the sense the word is used today, all the time he was pursuing after something better.
This group of CHRISTIANS is described in Malachi 3:16 Then they that feared the LORD spake (consulted) often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard [it], and a book of remembrance (earmarked for adoption, overcomers) was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought (reckoned, guided their lives) upon his name. And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, IN THAT DAY WHEN I MAKE UP MY JEWELS; and I will spare them (from the great White Throne Judgment), as a man spareth (in the FIRST (BETTER) RESURRECTION) his own son that serveth him. Then shall ye return (look around), and discern (be able to know) between the righteous (now) and the wicked, between him that serveth God (now) and him that serveth him not (now)
.
TWO CLASSES OF CHRISTIANS mingle on a weekly basis, but no one is capable of knowing the heart of each individual-- except God. BUT HE DOES KNOW THE DIFFERENCE.
WHEN IT IS TIME for the OVERCOMERS to be USHERED INTO THEIR PLACE in the economy of God-- the will be found from every walk of life, from every strata of society, from every race and nationality. PROBABLY FROM EVERY DENOMINATION also.
There will be a WORK for them to do. Revelation 14:16 And he that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped.
'Nuf for now. God Bless!
Following are some pieces of correspondence from the Internet.
THE OVERCOMERS
Pearl and I have been rather busy of late, so I have not been responsive to the posts about the group of believers who are referred to as being the "OVERCOMERS."
I would like to, now, respond, if I may. And, since it is one of my favorite topics, I may get a bit long winded, and you might find it profitable to print this out for future reference.
First, it is necessary to establish the difference between being SAVED, and becoming an OVERCOMER, or coming to MATURITY in our Christian walk
John 1:12 states But as many as received him, to them gave he power (the right, privilege, opportunity) to BECOME (develop, grow up into) the SONS (huios-- fully developed) of God, [even] to them that believe on his name:
In other words, SALVATION (whatever your understanding of it is) is the STARTING POINT in our life as a Christian. When we receive the Baptism of the Holy Ghost, we are given a VERY SMALL allotment of the Eternal Spirit which spoke the worlds into existence. Eph 1:13,14 tells us that we are SEALED with that Holy Spirit of Promise, but that it is ONLY AN EARNEST of what we can attain to, if we "do our homework" from that beginning.
The REDEMPTION OF THE PURCHASED POSSESSION spoken of here is referring to an experience which is attainable in mortality, rather than in immortality-- as we have formerly been taught.
This REDEMPTION OF THE PURCHASED POSSESSION is mentioned in Romans 8:23 And not only [they], but ourselves also, which have the FIRSTFRUIT of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the ADOPTION, [to wit], the REDEMPTION OF OUR BODY. The Baptism of the Holy Ghost DID NOT PARTIALLY IMMORTALIZE US. So, the REDEMPTION (buying back, restoring) will only affect the human mortal body.
WHEN WE RECEIVE THE HOLY GHOST, a work is STARTED in our spirits which is the essence of the finger of God BEGINNING to write HIS DESIRES on the tables of our hearts. The process of guiding us into the TRUTH is HELPED or HINDERED in direct ratio to our RESPONSES to the voice of the Spirit as we acquaint ourselves with the Word of God. IT IS NOT AUTOMATIC.
John 16:13 Howbeit when he, the SPIRIT OF TRUTH, is come, he will GUIDE you into ALL TRUTH: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, [that] shall he speak: AND HE WILL SHEW YOU THINGS TO COME.
It is a sad reality that multitudes of people who are GENUINELY SAVED have never caught a glimpse of the possibilities of development in God, and the REWARDS which accompany that development.
ADOPTION is one of those REWARDS. We are battling against the element of TIME in receiving both the ADOPTION and THE PRIZE OF THE HIGH CALLING OF GOD IN CHRIST JESUS. Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Notice that Paul said he HAD NOT YET ATTAINED, NEITHER WAS ALREADY PERFECT (MATURE, COMPLETE), but there was ONE THING I DO. I "FOLLOW AFTER"-- a very strong word in the Greek, and "I PRESS TOWARD THE MARK"-- another very strong expression of intense desire.
Now, let me remind you that Paul was "SAVED" in the sense the word is used today, all the time he was pursuing after something better.
This group of CHRISTIANS is described in Malachi 3:16 Then they that feared the LORD spake (consulted) often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard [it], and a book of remembrance (earmarked for adoption, overcomers) was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought (reckoned, guided their lives) upon his name. And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, IN THAT DAY WHEN I MAKE UP MY JEWELS; and I will spare them (from the great White Throne Judgment), as a man spareth (in the FIRST (BETTER) RESURRECTION) his own son that serveth him. Then shall ye return (look around), and discern (be able to know) between the righteous (now) and the wicked, between him that serveth God (now) and him that serveth him not (now)
.
TWO CLASSES OF CHRISTIANS mingle on a weekly basis, but no one is capable of knowing the heart of each individual-- except God. BUT HE DOES KNOW THE DIFFERENCE.
WHEN IT IS TIME for the OVERCOMERS to be USHERED INTO THEIR PLACE in the economy of God-- the will be found from every walk of life, from every strata of society, from every race and nationality. PROBABLY FROM EVERY DENOMINATION also.
There will be a WORK for them to do. Revelation 14:16 And he that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped.
'Nuf for now. God Bless!
Thursday, April 19, 2007
IT IS TIME
IT IS TIME
Concern is growing in the hearts of many people who begin to assess the conditions which now exist in the Church of the Living God.
How will we combat the steady growth of worldliness, which is attacking the Church like crabgrass?
How shall we stop false teachings from making inroads on our pure doctrines?
What can we do to increase interest and attendance at our services? Can we revive interest in the Sunday night service? If so, how?
Is there some program we can employ that will help us reverse the downhill trend, and spark new interest in the hearts of the people?
Yes! And the answer is quite a simple one. It is endorsed by the Holy Ghost, and is simple to put into motion. The hard part is selling it to ourselves and our congregations, but it will work, if put into operation. The formula is:
Hosea 10:12 Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground: for [it is] time to seek the LORD, till he come and rain righteousness upon you.
Isaiah 44:3 For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring:
Psalms 72:6 He shall come down like rain upon the mown grass: as showers [that] water the earth.
Zechariah 10:1 Ask ye of the LORD rain in the time of the latter rain; [so] the LORD shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field.
Isaiah 58:8 Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward.
Proverbs 21:21 He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour.
Malachi 4:2 But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall.
Proverbs 2:1 My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, [and] apply thine heart to understanding; Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, [and] liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as [for] hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.
Hosea 6:3 Then shall we know, [if] we follow on to know the LORD: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter [and] former rain unto the earth.
Concern is growing in the hearts of many people who begin to assess the conditions which now exist in the Church of the Living God.
How will we combat the steady growth of worldliness, which is attacking the Church like crabgrass?
How shall we stop false teachings from making inroads on our pure doctrines?
What can we do to increase interest and attendance at our services? Can we revive interest in the Sunday night service? If so, how?
Is there some program we can employ that will help us reverse the downhill trend, and spark new interest in the hearts of the people?
Yes! And the answer is quite a simple one. It is endorsed by the Holy Ghost, and is simple to put into motion. The hard part is selling it to ourselves and our congregations, but it will work, if put into operation. The formula is:
Hosea 10:12 Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground: for [it is] time to seek the LORD, till he come and rain righteousness upon you.
Isaiah 44:3 For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring:
Psalms 72:6 He shall come down like rain upon the mown grass: as showers [that] water the earth.
Zechariah 10:1 Ask ye of the LORD rain in the time of the latter rain; [so] the LORD shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field.
Isaiah 58:8 Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward.
Proverbs 21:21 He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour.
Malachi 4:2 But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall.
Proverbs 2:1 My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, [and] apply thine heart to understanding; Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, [and] liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as [for] hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.
Hosea 6:3 Then shall we know, [if] we follow on to know the LORD: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter [and] former rain unto the earth.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
DAVID'S PRAYER
AS THE EVENING SACRIFICE
David, the sweet singer of Israel has blazed a trail for us to follow in our worship to God. Though he lived in the Old Testament time, he knew by the Spirit the principles of New Testament worship. There is a difference. Jesus told the woman at the well that there was a change coming in the manner and place of worship.
Old Testament worship consisted of many external activities, such as the burning of incense and sacrifices of animals, both morning and evening-- every day.
But David prayed, in Psalms 141:2 Let my PRAYER be set forth before thee [as] INCENSE; [and] the LIFTING UP OF MY HANDS [as] the EVENING SACRIFICE.
He had caught a glimpse of what the burning of incense and the evening sacrifice were really pointing to. Namely-- PRAYER FROM THE HEART, and the LIFTING UP OF THE HANDS in homage and adoration to Him who created all things, and purchased our Salvation with His Own Blood.
David also sang in Psalms 63:4 Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name.
Again, he prayed in Psalms 28:2 Hear the voice of my supplications, when I cry unto thee, when I lift up my hands toward thy holy oracle.
Jeremiah also caught the spirit of New Testament Worship when he wrote in Lamentations 3:41 Let us lift up our heart with [our] hands unto God in the heavens.
Paul's exhortation to us who live today is in I Timothy 2:8 I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.
AS THE EVENING SACRIFICE
David, the sweet singer of Israel has blazed a trail for us to follow in our worship to God. Though he lived in the Old Testament time, he knew by the Spirit the principles of New Testament worship. There is a difference. Jesus told the woman at the well that there was a change coming in the manner and place of worship.
Old Testament worship consisted of many external activities, such as the burning of incense and sacrifices of animals, both morning and evening-- every day.
But David prayed, in Psalms 141:2 Let my PRAYER be set forth before thee [as] INCENSE; [and] the LIFTING UP OF MY HANDS [as] the EVENING SACRIFICE.
He had caught a glimpse of what the burning of incense and the evening sacrifice were really pointing to. Namely-- PRAYER FROM THE HEART, and the LIFTING UP OF THE HANDS in homage and adoration to Him who created all things, and purchased our Salvation with His Own Blood.
David also sang in Psalms 63:4 Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name.
Again, he prayed in Psalms 28:2 Hear the voice of my supplications, when I cry unto thee, when I lift up my hands toward thy holy oracle.
Jeremiah also caught the spirit of New Testament Worship when he wrote in Lamentations 3:41 Let us lift up our heart with [our] hands unto God in the heavens.
Paul's exhortation to us who live today is in I Timothy 2:8 I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.
David, the sweet singer of Israel has blazed a trail for us to follow in our worship to God. Though he lived in the Old Testament time, he knew by the Spirit the principles of New Testament worship. There is a difference. Jesus told the woman at the well that there was a change coming in the manner and place of worship.
Old Testament worship consisted of many external activities, such as the burning of incense and sacrifices of animals, both morning and evening-- every day.
But David prayed, in Psalms 141:2 Let my PRAYER be set forth before thee [as] INCENSE; [and] the LIFTING UP OF MY HANDS [as] the EVENING SACRIFICE.
He had caught a glimpse of what the burning of incense and the evening sacrifice were really pointing to. Namely-- PRAYER FROM THE HEART, and the LIFTING UP OF THE HANDS in homage and adoration to Him who created all things, and purchased our Salvation with His Own Blood.
David also sang in Psalms 63:4 Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name.
Again, he prayed in Psalms 28:2 Hear the voice of my supplications, when I cry unto thee, when I lift up my hands toward thy holy oracle.
Jeremiah also caught the spirit of New Testament Worship when he wrote in Lamentations 3:41 Let us lift up our heart with [our] hands unto God in the heavens.
Paul's exhortation to us who live today is in I Timothy 2:8 I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.
AS THE EVENING SACRIFICE
David, the sweet singer of Israel has blazed a trail for us to follow in our worship to God. Though he lived in the Old Testament time, he knew by the Spirit the principles of New Testament worship. There is a difference. Jesus told the woman at the well that there was a change coming in the manner and place of worship.
Old Testament worship consisted of many external activities, such as the burning of incense and sacrifices of animals, both morning and evening-- every day.
But David prayed, in Psalms 141:2 Let my PRAYER be set forth before thee [as] INCENSE; [and] the LIFTING UP OF MY HANDS [as] the EVENING SACRIFICE.
He had caught a glimpse of what the burning of incense and the evening sacrifice were really pointing to. Namely-- PRAYER FROM THE HEART, and the LIFTING UP OF THE HANDS in homage and adoration to Him who created all things, and purchased our Salvation with His Own Blood.
David also sang in Psalms 63:4 Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name.
Again, he prayed in Psalms 28:2 Hear the voice of my supplications, when I cry unto thee, when I lift up my hands toward thy holy oracle.
Jeremiah also caught the spirit of New Testament Worship when he wrote in Lamentations 3:41 Let us lift up our heart with [our] hands unto God in the heavens.
Paul's exhortation to us who live today is in I Timothy 2:8 I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE TRUTH
COMING TO THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE TRUTH
John 18:38 Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? That question has been asked multitudes of times since Pilate asked it. No one is able to give an answer that will satisfy every person or group of believers. It means one thing to some-- another thing to others.
Pilate asked this question in response to a statement Jesus had made to him. John 18:37 Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.
I made a specific study of the subject one time, to see if I could find what is hidden from our view when we think of Truth. I had already concluded that it was NOT referring to modes of baptism, the Godhead, nor the basic plan of Salvation. I thought, also, that I could safely rule out the various Prophetic interpretations and teachings that have become threadbare with age and (mis)use. But, What was Jesus referring to when He used the word "truth"?
Was Jesus talking about the same thing that Paul was referring to when he wrote--? II Timothy 3:7 Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Paul used the "epi" word here for "knowledge" (epignosis-- knowledge above knowledge).
Does it take a special "knowledge upon knowledge" to learn The Truth Jesus was referring to? There are so many places in the New Testament where "epignosis" is used that it might seem to indicate that we CANNOT FIND REAL TRUTH when we operate only in the natural wisdom and abilities which we have.
I am convinced that we must get into a higher realm of relationship to Jesus if we are to enjoy many of the things which were purchased for us on Calvary.
Listen to Paul, when he writes to the Ephesian saints: Ephesians 1:16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may GIVE UNTO YOU the SPIRIT OF WISDOM AND REVELATION IN THE KNOWLEDGE (epignosis-- knowledge upon knowledge) OF HIM: The EYES OF YOUR UNDERSTANDING being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what [is] the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set [him] at his own right hand in the heavenly [places], Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:
What did I find when I made the study in search of a better meaning of Truth? I found that TRUTH, as Jesus referred to it, is inseparably linked with GRACE. John 1:17 For the law was given by Moses, [but] GRACE and TRUTH came by Jesus Christ. John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of GRACE and TRUTH.
It is also linked solidly with the Spirit of God. John 4:23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in SPIRIT and in TRUTH: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. John 4:24 God [is] a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship [him] in SPIRIT and in TRUTH.
TRUTH goes far beyond mere doctrinal beliefs and practices. The secret of understanding TRUTH lies in the fact that it has been CONTRASTED to, of all things, the LAW OF MOSES.
That LAW had no REALITY in it. It had no LIFE in it. It was "make believe", only a model of something which WOULD BE REAL.
The LAW had no mercy, no GRACE in it. Only stern rules and regulations and lifeless ceremonies.
GRACE came in JESUS CHRIST. TRUTH came in JESUS CHRIST. TRUTH is a RELATIONSHIP to God THROUGH JESUS CHRIST. It is REALITY of JESUS IN OUR LIVES.
We can worship Him in SPIRIT and in TRUTH
John 18:38 Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? That question has been asked multitudes of times since Pilate asked it. No one is able to give an answer that will satisfy every person or group of believers. It means one thing to some-- another thing to others.
Pilate asked this question in response to a statement Jesus had made to him. John 18:37 Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.
I made a specific study of the subject one time, to see if I could find what is hidden from our view when we think of Truth. I had already concluded that it was NOT referring to modes of baptism, the Godhead, nor the basic plan of Salvation. I thought, also, that I could safely rule out the various Prophetic interpretations and teachings that have become threadbare with age and (mis)use. But, What was Jesus referring to when He used the word "truth"?
Was Jesus talking about the same thing that Paul was referring to when he wrote--? II Timothy 3:7 Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Paul used the "epi" word here for "knowledge" (epignosis-- knowledge above knowledge).
Does it take a special "knowledge upon knowledge" to learn The Truth Jesus was referring to? There are so many places in the New Testament where "epignosis" is used that it might seem to indicate that we CANNOT FIND REAL TRUTH when we operate only in the natural wisdom and abilities which we have.
I am convinced that we must get into a higher realm of relationship to Jesus if we are to enjoy many of the things which were purchased for us on Calvary.
Listen to Paul, when he writes to the Ephesian saints: Ephesians 1:16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may GIVE UNTO YOU the SPIRIT OF WISDOM AND REVELATION IN THE KNOWLEDGE (epignosis-- knowledge upon knowledge) OF HIM: The EYES OF YOUR UNDERSTANDING being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what [is] the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set [him] at his own right hand in the heavenly [places], Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:
What did I find when I made the study in search of a better meaning of Truth? I found that TRUTH, as Jesus referred to it, is inseparably linked with GRACE. John 1:17 For the law was given by Moses, [but] GRACE and TRUTH came by Jesus Christ. John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of GRACE and TRUTH.
It is also linked solidly with the Spirit of God. John 4:23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in SPIRIT and in TRUTH: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. John 4:24 God [is] a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship [him] in SPIRIT and in TRUTH.
TRUTH goes far beyond mere doctrinal beliefs and practices. The secret of understanding TRUTH lies in the fact that it has been CONTRASTED to, of all things, the LAW OF MOSES.
That LAW had no REALITY in it. It had no LIFE in it. It was "make believe", only a model of something which WOULD BE REAL.
The LAW had no mercy, no GRACE in it. Only stern rules and regulations and lifeless ceremonies.
GRACE came in JESUS CHRIST. TRUTH came in JESUS CHRIST. TRUTH is a RELATIONSHIP to God THROUGH JESUS CHRIST. It is REALITY of JESUS IN OUR LIVES.
We can worship Him in SPIRIT and in TRUTH
A CLEAN HEART
CREATE A CLEAN HEART
Portions of Psalm 51 have been set to music. It has been a real blessing to me, for I can identify with the pleadings of David as he repented of the terrible things he had done.
Although I have not been guilty of what David did, I recognize the dangers involved in everyday life. I am every bit as human as David was, and my fallings short of the mark are probably as bad in the sight of God as his were.
I "sing" it in my mind as I go about my daily duties, and it has become a real prayer of my heart.
"Create in me a clean heart, Oh, God, And renew a right spirit within me.
Create in me a clean heart, Oh, God, And renew a right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from Thy Presence, And take not Thy Holy Spirit from me.
Restore unto me the Joy of Thy Salvation.
And renew a right spirit within me."
Only God can change our hearts. Only God can renew our spirits. These must be accomplished before we can again have the Joy of Salvation.
I find, in my own life, that even if I am not aware of a transgression, I reap an abundant harvest of God's Blessing on my soul when I identify with the pleadings of David. Walking in Repentance contibutes to a healthy soul condition.
Jeremiah 17:9 The heart [is] deceitful above all [things], and desperately wicked: who can know it?
Jeremiah 17:10 I the LORD search the heart, [I] try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, [and] according to the fruit of his doings.
HE KNOWS US FULLY-- YET HE LOVES US!
ISN'T HE WONDERFUL
Portions of Psalm 51 have been set to music. It has been a real blessing to me, for I can identify with the pleadings of David as he repented of the terrible things he had done.
Although I have not been guilty of what David did, I recognize the dangers involved in everyday life. I am every bit as human as David was, and my fallings short of the mark are probably as bad in the sight of God as his were.
I "sing" it in my mind as I go about my daily duties, and it has become a real prayer of my heart.
"Create in me a clean heart, Oh, God, And renew a right spirit within me.
Create in me a clean heart, Oh, God, And renew a right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from Thy Presence, And take not Thy Holy Spirit from me.
Restore unto me the Joy of Thy Salvation.
And renew a right spirit within me."
Only God can change our hearts. Only God can renew our spirits. These must be accomplished before we can again have the Joy of Salvation.
I find, in my own life, that even if I am not aware of a transgression, I reap an abundant harvest of God's Blessing on my soul when I identify with the pleadings of David. Walking in Repentance contibutes to a healthy soul condition.
Jeremiah 17:9 The heart [is] deceitful above all [things], and desperately wicked: who can know it?
Jeremiah 17:10 I the LORD search the heart, [I] try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, [and] according to the fruit of his doings.
HE KNOWS US FULLY-- YET HE LOVES US!
ISN'T HE WONDERFUL
Sunday, April 15, 2007
THE FEET
The following is one chapter from the booklet "DAY OF ATONEMENT" written by Marion Fretwell
902 So 11th Ave Yakima, WA. 98902
THE FEET
"How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace: that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation: that saith unto Zion, 'Thy God Reigneth'." Isa 52:7
NO study of the End-time Ministry would be complete without mentioning the "Feet". They, being the extremities of the anatomy, are used in prophetic language to portray what Jesus is planning for His faithful followers in the extremity of this dispensation.
LET me give you a few thoughts, as I believe the Lord has given them to me.
IN John 13 you will find the text of what I am referring to. Jesus had taken a towel and a basin of water, and began to wash the feet of His disciples. He came to Peter, who said, "Thou shalt never wash my feet." Jesus replied and said, "What I do thou knowest not now: but thou shalt know hereafter." What was Jesus talking about? What was the hidden meaning of Him washing the feet of His disciples---His close followers? Why didn't He wash the feet of everybody? Were the feet of His disciples extra dirty? Why just His close followers? No, their feet were not extra dirty. He was not giving them a lesson in hygiene. Nothing like that.
JESUS was giving them a prophecy concerning the extremity of the dispensation that He was just about to usher in upon the earth---Grace.
There will come a special cleansing to the close followers of Jesus in the last days, which will make them "beautiful." Just the close followers will receive it.
THE KEY which permits us to use the scripture this way is in Daniel 2, where the King of Babylon had dreamed a dream about a great image made up of different metal ---gold, silver, brass, iron, and iron mixed with clay The image was a chronological preview of the four great Gentile Kingdoms which were to come into being on the earth. The feet and toes were to represent what we have on the earth today in the politics of the world.
RUNNING parallel to the world kingdom is a Kingdom which God is in the process of bringing to perfection. God's kingdom is the stone which was hewn out of the mountain, which smote the image in the feet, and obliterated it. "And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed...". Dan 2:44
THE body of Christ, the Church, has been in existence for a long time also, and has gone through various stages, like the image which the King of Babylon saw in his dream. We are now living in the time of the feet.
LISTEN to what John said about what he saw when he beheld it, in the Revelation of Jesus Christ. "And His feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace." Rev 1:15 This tells us that in the time of the feet, there will be "Refined Judgment" or "Exact Judgment".
"JUDGMENT", here, as in most usages of the word in scripture, means putting things in their proper place, or putting proper value on things--knowing what should be where, and why.
PRESENT day believers, especially those who are walking as closely to the Lord as they know how, constitute the "feet" of the body of Christ in the same sense that the present day governments of the world constitute the "feet" of the Babylonian image.
JESUS allowed a prophecy to be enacted concerning the believer of the last days while in Bethany at a supper in His honor. Mary took a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and the house was filled with the odor of the ointment. See Jn 12:3 Why did she anoint the feet? Why not the head? Why not the hands and arms? Because the special anointing was to be poured out upon the saints of the last days. GOD HAS A SPECIAL WORK FOR US TO DO, AND IT WILL TAKE A SPECIAL ANOINTING TO GET THE JOB DONE.
THERE is a work to be completed, Brethren, and we need to fix our gaze in that direction INSTEAD OF SEEKING AN ESCAPE ROUTE, as we have been programmed to do for so many decades. If you can handle it, take a look at the many scriptures that talk about all things being put under His Feet. That includes His enemies.
GOD intends to use His Saints--"My sanctified ones--My mighty ones for Mine anger, even them that rejoice in My Highness." See Isa 13:3 They will be the Weapons of His Indignation". See vs 5.
"But the saints of the Most High shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom for ever, even for ever and ever---Until the Ancient of Days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the Most High: and the time came that the saints possessed the kingdom." See Dan 7:22,27
BECAUSE "The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God, to the pulling down of strongholds", we cannot expect by any fleshly means to overpower the forces of evil as they are seen in the governmental, financial and religious institutions of the world today.
Legislation will not do it. Armies will not do it. Passing resolutions will not do it. Our only means of attack is the Spirit of Almighty God.
BUT THAT IS SUFFICIENT!
WHEN the Mighty Angel binds Satan, to cast him into the bottomless
pit, he will use the Chain of the SPIRIT OF GOD. If you can believe it, the Mighty Angel is the SAINTS OF THE MOST HIGH GOD, after they have received the Anointing typified by Mary in Bethany, when she anointed the feet of Jesus with the "VERY COSTLY OINTMENT."
IT WILL BE A VERY COSTLY ANOINTING, and few will be willing to pay the cost to be in that company.
WE OFFER NO EASY ESCAPE ROUTE.
NOR DOES THE WORD OF GOD.
The Church world needs to get their eyes off of some of the traditional teachings, and onto what the Word actually SAYS about what IS GOING TO
HAPPEN.
902 So 11th Ave Yakima, WA. 98902
THE FEET
"How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace: that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation: that saith unto Zion, 'Thy God Reigneth'." Isa 52:7
NO study of the End-time Ministry would be complete without mentioning the "Feet". They, being the extremities of the anatomy, are used in prophetic language to portray what Jesus is planning for His faithful followers in the extremity of this dispensation.
LET me give you a few thoughts, as I believe the Lord has given them to me.
IN John 13 you will find the text of what I am referring to. Jesus had taken a towel and a basin of water, and began to wash the feet of His disciples. He came to Peter, who said, "Thou shalt never wash my feet." Jesus replied and said, "What I do thou knowest not now: but thou shalt know hereafter." What was Jesus talking about? What was the hidden meaning of Him washing the feet of His disciples---His close followers? Why didn't He wash the feet of everybody? Were the feet of His disciples extra dirty? Why just His close followers? No, their feet were not extra dirty. He was not giving them a lesson in hygiene. Nothing like that.
JESUS was giving them a prophecy concerning the extremity of the dispensation that He was just about to usher in upon the earth---Grace.
There will come a special cleansing to the close followers of Jesus in the last days, which will make them "beautiful." Just the close followers will receive it.
THE KEY which permits us to use the scripture this way is in Daniel 2, where the King of Babylon had dreamed a dream about a great image made up of different metal ---gold, silver, brass, iron, and iron mixed with clay The image was a chronological preview of the four great Gentile Kingdoms which were to come into being on the earth. The feet and toes were to represent what we have on the earth today in the politics of the world.
RUNNING parallel to the world kingdom is a Kingdom which God is in the process of bringing to perfection. God's kingdom is the stone which was hewn out of the mountain, which smote the image in the feet, and obliterated it. "And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed...". Dan 2:44
THE body of Christ, the Church, has been in existence for a long time also, and has gone through various stages, like the image which the King of Babylon saw in his dream. We are now living in the time of the feet.
LISTEN to what John said about what he saw when he beheld it, in the Revelation of Jesus Christ. "And His feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace." Rev 1:15 This tells us that in the time of the feet, there will be "Refined Judgment" or "Exact Judgment".
"JUDGMENT", here, as in most usages of the word in scripture, means putting things in their proper place, or putting proper value on things--knowing what should be where, and why.
PRESENT day believers, especially those who are walking as closely to the Lord as they know how, constitute the "feet" of the body of Christ in the same sense that the present day governments of the world constitute the "feet" of the Babylonian image.
JESUS allowed a prophecy to be enacted concerning the believer of the last days while in Bethany at a supper in His honor. Mary took a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and the house was filled with the odor of the ointment. See Jn 12:3 Why did she anoint the feet? Why not the head? Why not the hands and arms? Because the special anointing was to be poured out upon the saints of the last days. GOD HAS A SPECIAL WORK FOR US TO DO, AND IT WILL TAKE A SPECIAL ANOINTING TO GET THE JOB DONE.
THERE is a work to be completed, Brethren, and we need to fix our gaze in that direction INSTEAD OF SEEKING AN ESCAPE ROUTE, as we have been programmed to do for so many decades. If you can handle it, take a look at the many scriptures that talk about all things being put under His Feet. That includes His enemies.
GOD intends to use His Saints--"My sanctified ones--My mighty ones for Mine anger, even them that rejoice in My Highness." See Isa 13:3 They will be the Weapons of His Indignation". See vs 5.
"But the saints of the Most High shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom for ever, even for ever and ever---Until the Ancient of Days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the Most High: and the time came that the saints possessed the kingdom." See Dan 7:22,27
BECAUSE "The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God, to the pulling down of strongholds", we cannot expect by any fleshly means to overpower the forces of evil as they are seen in the governmental, financial and religious institutions of the world today.
Legislation will not do it. Armies will not do it. Passing resolutions will not do it. Our only means of attack is the Spirit of Almighty God.
BUT THAT IS SUFFICIENT!
WHEN the Mighty Angel binds Satan, to cast him into the bottomless
pit, he will use the Chain of the SPIRIT OF GOD. If you can believe it, the Mighty Angel is the SAINTS OF THE MOST HIGH GOD, after they have received the Anointing typified by Mary in Bethany, when she anointed the feet of Jesus with the "VERY COSTLY OINTMENT."
IT WILL BE A VERY COSTLY ANOINTING, and few will be willing to pay the cost to be in that company.
WE OFFER NO EASY ESCAPE ROUTE.
NOR DOES THE WORD OF GOD.
The Church world needs to get their eyes off of some of the traditional teachings, and onto what the Word actually SAYS about what IS GOING TO
HAPPEN.
THE NEW MAN
The epistle of Paul to the Ephesians has fascinated me since the first days of my service as a Pastor of a Church. It became the theme of most of those first sermons I preached, and is still the springboard of much of my ministering today, over sixty years later. For me, it is one of the richest portions of the whole Bible.
In this book, we witness the "welding together" of two classes of people into ONE body. The Israelites and the Gentiles are welded together by the Gospel into "ONE NEW MAN". Let me give you some scriptures.
Eph 2:11 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; 12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being ALIENS FROM THE COMMONWEALTH OF ISRAEL, AND STRANGERS FROM THE CO VENANTS OF PROMISE, having no hope, and without God in the world: :13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. :14 For he is our peace, WHO HATH MADE BOTH ONE, AND HATH BROKEN DOWN THE MIDDLE WALL OF PARTITION BETWEEN US; :15 Having abolished in his flesh the ENMITY, EVEN THE LAW OF OMMANDMENTS CONTAINED IN ORDINANCES; for to MAKE IN HIMSELF OF TWAIN ONE NEW MAN, SO MAKING PEACE; :16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: :17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. :18 For THROUGH HIM WE BOTH HAVE ACCESS BY ONE SPIRIT unto the Father.
Just this last week, the Lord has chosen to add to my understanding by shedding light on some scriptures in the letter to the Galation Church, that I believe are dealing with the same portion of the Workings of God in the earth. It has to do with a better understanding of the NEW CREATURE.
Gal 6:15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, BUT A NEW CREATURE. (ONE NEW MAN)
Gal 6:16 And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the ISRAEL OF GOD.
Listen while I tell you about it! The NEW CREATURE is the same as the ONE NEW MAN. I had always thought that the NEW CREATURE was talking about what happened to US when we accepted the Lord as our Saviour. (And it CAN mean that also). But this last week I saw it in an entirely different light than ever before. Look at:
Rev 3:14 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, THE BEGINNING OF THE CREATION OF GOD;
It all began when Jesus came out of the grave, Immortal.
He had broken down a barrier (middle wall of partition—the Law of Moses) between two classes of people, and provided a way whereby both of them could become ONE in HIM.
This CREATION OF GOD would become known by the Spirit as the ISRAEL OF GOD. It is a combination of Israelite and Gentile people who trust Jesus Christ for their salvation. It is the CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD. It is the "Mystery, kept secret since the world began."
Rom 16:25 Now to him that is of power to establish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,:26 But now is made manifest, and by the Scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:
Listen to Paul, again in Ephesians, reveal the inner workings of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Eph 3:1 For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, :2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: :3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, :4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the MYSTERY OF CHRIST) :5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; :6 THAT THE GENTILES SHOULD BE FELLOW HEIRS, AND OF THE SAME BODY, AND PARTAKERS OF HIS PROMISE IN CHRIST BY THE GOSPEL: :7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.
Paul, in the letter to the Romans, gives us a picture of the "nuts and bolts" of God's program to weld both Israel and the Gentiles together to form the NEW CREATURE, the ONE NEW MAN.
But, before we get into that aspect of it, let me direct your attention to a wicked, cruel king whom God forced to pantomime a prophecy about how He intended to work in the earth.
The King was Nebuchadnezzar in Babylon who was gloating about how he had captured God's people of that time. The time was about 600 years before Jesus was born.
The king had a dream one night about a tree being cut down and left lay on the ground until "seven times" had passed over it. The STUMP, however, was left, and in the dream the tree was restored after the “seven times” had passed. That wicked, cruel king was forced to act out a prophetic pantomime to show that God is always in complete control, and that He can and will do whatever He pleases with His people, as well as with whole nations. The king thought he was bigger than the God of Israel, but he learned a hard lesson in those seven times (years).
Dan 4:15 Nevertheless leave the stump of his roots in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and let his portion be with the beasts in the grass of the earth:
Dan 4:16 Let his heart be changed from man's, and let a beast's heart be given unto him; and let seven times pass over him.
Dan 4:17 This matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the basest of men.
.
Dan 4:23 And whereas the king saw a watcher and a holy one coming down from heaven, and saying, Hew the tree down, and destroy it; yet leave the stump of the roots thereof in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and let his portion be with the beasts of the field, till seven times pass over him;
What happened to the king was a PROPHECY of how God intended to deal with Israel.
.
Dan 4:26 And whereas they commanded to leave the stump of the tree roots; thy kingdom shall be sure unto thee, after that thou shalt have known that the heavens do rule.
Romans 11 tells us a little more about the cutting down of the tree that was typified in the king's dream. It was a prophecy about the cutting off of Israel at the time of Calvary and the Resurrection. The difference now is that NOT THE WHOLE TREE was cut down. Just a part of it-- the part that did not accept Jesus as the Messiah. Those who did (and there were thousands who did) accept Him as Saviour, became "charter members" of the ONE NEW MAN, the NEW CREATURE, the ISRAEL OF GOD.
THE STUMP, which furnishes the life of the tree, is indicative of THE FAITH OF ABRAHAM. As many as were able to make the transition from the "dead works of the Law and ceremonies" remained as branches of the great "Tree" of Israel (the Israel of God). All others were cut off, for "Moses (THE LAW), My Servant, is DEAD".
Circumcision and ceremonies no longer serve any purpose. Whereas it had formerly been "all the law or nothing", it is now "all faith or nothing." God had given humanity 1500 years to prove that no one could keep the law well enough to satisfy God.
The branches that were cut off of the stump of the Faith of Abraham are all in the same condition as those who had never been a part of Israel (the Gentiles). They were lost and undone, and without a hope of Salvation. Let's listen to Paul.
Rom 11:17 And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert grafted in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree; :18 Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. :19 Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in. :20 Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear: :21 For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee. :22 Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. :23 And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft them in again. :24 For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert grafted contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree?
Heb 11:9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:
Heb 11:10 For he looked for a city which hath FOUNDATIONS, whose builder and maker is God.
No EARTHLY city has the FOUNDATIONS that Abraham was looking for.
The Lord is building that City for Abraham, right now, using the lively stones of men who have put their trust in Jesus Christ for the welfare of their souls. It is known presently as the Church of the Living God. The City is made without hands, and it has come down from God out of Heaven
WE ARE THAT CITY OF GOD! WE ARE THE HEAVENLY JERUSALEM! WE ARE THE ISRAEL OF GOD! WE ARE THE ONE NEW MAN! WE ARE THE NEW CREATURE!
In this book, we witness the "welding together" of two classes of people into ONE body. The Israelites and the Gentiles are welded together by the Gospel into "ONE NEW MAN". Let me give you some scriptures.
Eph 2:11 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; 12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being ALIENS FROM THE COMMONWEALTH OF ISRAEL, AND STRANGERS FROM THE CO VENANTS OF PROMISE, having no hope, and without God in the world: :13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. :14 For he is our peace, WHO HATH MADE BOTH ONE, AND HATH BROKEN DOWN THE MIDDLE WALL OF PARTITION BETWEEN US; :15 Having abolished in his flesh the ENMITY, EVEN THE LAW OF OMMANDMENTS CONTAINED IN ORDINANCES; for to MAKE IN HIMSELF OF TWAIN ONE NEW MAN, SO MAKING PEACE; :16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: :17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. :18 For THROUGH HIM WE BOTH HAVE ACCESS BY ONE SPIRIT unto the Father.
Just this last week, the Lord has chosen to add to my understanding by shedding light on some scriptures in the letter to the Galation Church, that I believe are dealing with the same portion of the Workings of God in the earth. It has to do with a better understanding of the NEW CREATURE.
Gal 6:15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, BUT A NEW CREATURE. (ONE NEW MAN)
Gal 6:16 And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the ISRAEL OF GOD.
Listen while I tell you about it! The NEW CREATURE is the same as the ONE NEW MAN. I had always thought that the NEW CREATURE was talking about what happened to US when we accepted the Lord as our Saviour. (And it CAN mean that also). But this last week I saw it in an entirely different light than ever before. Look at:
Rev 3:14 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, THE BEGINNING OF THE CREATION OF GOD;
It all began when Jesus came out of the grave, Immortal.
He had broken down a barrier (middle wall of partition—the Law of Moses) between two classes of people, and provided a way whereby both of them could become ONE in HIM.
This CREATION OF GOD would become known by the Spirit as the ISRAEL OF GOD. It is a combination of Israelite and Gentile people who trust Jesus Christ for their salvation. It is the CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD. It is the "Mystery, kept secret since the world began."
Rom 16:25 Now to him that is of power to establish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,:26 But now is made manifest, and by the Scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:
Listen to Paul, again in Ephesians, reveal the inner workings of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Eph 3:1 For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, :2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: :3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, :4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the MYSTERY OF CHRIST) :5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; :6 THAT THE GENTILES SHOULD BE FELLOW HEIRS, AND OF THE SAME BODY, AND PARTAKERS OF HIS PROMISE IN CHRIST BY THE GOSPEL: :7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.
Paul, in the letter to the Romans, gives us a picture of the "nuts and bolts" of God's program to weld both Israel and the Gentiles together to form the NEW CREATURE, the ONE NEW MAN.
But, before we get into that aspect of it, let me direct your attention to a wicked, cruel king whom God forced to pantomime a prophecy about how He intended to work in the earth.
The King was Nebuchadnezzar in Babylon who was gloating about how he had captured God's people of that time. The time was about 600 years before Jesus was born.
The king had a dream one night about a tree being cut down and left lay on the ground until "seven times" had passed over it. The STUMP, however, was left, and in the dream the tree was restored after the “seven times” had passed. That wicked, cruel king was forced to act out a prophetic pantomime to show that God is always in complete control, and that He can and will do whatever He pleases with His people, as well as with whole nations. The king thought he was bigger than the God of Israel, but he learned a hard lesson in those seven times (years).
Dan 4:15 Nevertheless leave the stump of his roots in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and let his portion be with the beasts in the grass of the earth:
Dan 4:16 Let his heart be changed from man's, and let a beast's heart be given unto him; and let seven times pass over him.
Dan 4:17 This matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the basest of men.
.
Dan 4:23 And whereas the king saw a watcher and a holy one coming down from heaven, and saying, Hew the tree down, and destroy it; yet leave the stump of the roots thereof in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and let his portion be with the beasts of the field, till seven times pass over him;
What happened to the king was a PROPHECY of how God intended to deal with Israel.
.
Dan 4:26 And whereas they commanded to leave the stump of the tree roots; thy kingdom shall be sure unto thee, after that thou shalt have known that the heavens do rule.
Romans 11 tells us a little more about the cutting down of the tree that was typified in the king's dream. It was a prophecy about the cutting off of Israel at the time of Calvary and the Resurrection. The difference now is that NOT THE WHOLE TREE was cut down. Just a part of it-- the part that did not accept Jesus as the Messiah. Those who did (and there were thousands who did) accept Him as Saviour, became "charter members" of the ONE NEW MAN, the NEW CREATURE, the ISRAEL OF GOD.
THE STUMP, which furnishes the life of the tree, is indicative of THE FAITH OF ABRAHAM. As many as were able to make the transition from the "dead works of the Law and ceremonies" remained as branches of the great "Tree" of Israel (the Israel of God). All others were cut off, for "Moses (THE LAW), My Servant, is DEAD".
Circumcision and ceremonies no longer serve any purpose. Whereas it had formerly been "all the law or nothing", it is now "all faith or nothing." God had given humanity 1500 years to prove that no one could keep the law well enough to satisfy God.
The branches that were cut off of the stump of the Faith of Abraham are all in the same condition as those who had never been a part of Israel (the Gentiles). They were lost and undone, and without a hope of Salvation. Let's listen to Paul.
Rom 11:17 And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert grafted in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree; :18 Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. :19 Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in. :20 Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear: :21 For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee. :22 Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. :23 And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft them in again. :24 For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert grafted contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree?
Heb 11:9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:
Heb 11:10 For he looked for a city which hath FOUNDATIONS, whose builder and maker is God.
No EARTHLY city has the FOUNDATIONS that Abraham was looking for.
The Lord is building that City for Abraham, right now, using the lively stones of men who have put their trust in Jesus Christ for the welfare of their souls. It is known presently as the Church of the Living God. The City is made without hands, and it has come down from God out of Heaven
WE ARE THAT CITY OF GOD! WE ARE THE HEAVENLY JERUSALEM! WE ARE THE ISRAEL OF GOD! WE ARE THE ONE NEW MAN! WE ARE THE NEW CREATURE!
Saturday, April 14, 2007
TREASURE IN EARTHEN VESSELS
THE TREASURE
Jesus gave some parables in the 13th chapter of Matthew describing some aspects of the Kingdom of God. In one parable He referred to a treasure hid in a field. One who discovers the treasure should sell all that he has and buy the farm.
Matthew 13:44 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.
Paul also used the term "treasure" in his writings. He likened the treasure to the administration of the Spirit of God among the people of God. "We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God and not of us". 2Cor 4:7 He had earlier referred to the same thing when he wrote, "Therefore seeing we have this Ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not." 2Cor 4:1
He said that he had not tried to depend upon his own ability to speak or persuade men by appealing to their intellect, but he depended on the demonstration, or showing forth of the Spirit and Power of God.
I Corinthians 2:4 And my speech and my preaching [was] not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:
I Corinthians 2:5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
Anyone can speak in a persuasive manner, but they tend more to attract people to themselves than to God. Paul was determined not to do this, but chose rather to give a demonstration of what God could do in the lives of the people he was ministering to.
In Rev chs. 2 and 3 the admonition is repeated several times, for us who are able, to hear what the SPIRIT is saying to us.
Not everyone is able to hear the Spirit, for varying reasons. We are seldom aware of our inability to hear the Spirit until we are around someone who IS able to hear.
A child who is born half blind is not aware of its condition until it is placed with others who have good eyesight. I shall never forget the day when I discovered I was not able to hear what other people were hearing.
I was able to see the steam as a railroad engineer blew the whistle about three miles away, but heard no sound. My brothers had no difficulty hearing as well as seeing.
I am convinced that many of us are missing what the Spirit would say to us if we were in a condition to hear. I was unable to correct my natural hearing, but it is not so with the Spiritual hearing. That can be corrected, IF WE SO DESIRE.
A casual observance of the things of God will not cut it. We must put our heart into seeking Him.
Philippians 3:8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things [but] loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them [but] dung, that I may win Christ,
Philippians 3:10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;
Proverbs 2:5 Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.
II Peter 1:8 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make [you that ye shall] neither [be] barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
II Timothy 1:6 Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.
We should be seeking for the Anointing of God in our lives that enables us to administer the Spirit of God to those around us.
Jesus gave some parables in the 13th chapter of Matthew describing some aspects of the Kingdom of God. In one parable He referred to a treasure hid in a field. One who discovers the treasure should sell all that he has and buy the farm.
Matthew 13:44 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.
Paul also used the term "treasure" in his writings. He likened the treasure to the administration of the Spirit of God among the people of God. "We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God and not of us". 2Cor 4:7 He had earlier referred to the same thing when he wrote, "Therefore seeing we have this Ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not." 2Cor 4:1
He said that he had not tried to depend upon his own ability to speak or persuade men by appealing to their intellect, but he depended on the demonstration, or showing forth of the Spirit and Power of God.
I Corinthians 2:4 And my speech and my preaching [was] not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:
I Corinthians 2:5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
Anyone can speak in a persuasive manner, but they tend more to attract people to themselves than to God. Paul was determined not to do this, but chose rather to give a demonstration of what God could do in the lives of the people he was ministering to.
In Rev chs. 2 and 3 the admonition is repeated several times, for us who are able, to hear what the SPIRIT is saying to us.
Not everyone is able to hear the Spirit, for varying reasons. We are seldom aware of our inability to hear the Spirit until we are around someone who IS able to hear.
A child who is born half blind is not aware of its condition until it is placed with others who have good eyesight. I shall never forget the day when I discovered I was not able to hear what other people were hearing.
I was able to see the steam as a railroad engineer blew the whistle about three miles away, but heard no sound. My brothers had no difficulty hearing as well as seeing.
I am convinced that many of us are missing what the Spirit would say to us if we were in a condition to hear. I was unable to correct my natural hearing, but it is not so with the Spiritual hearing. That can be corrected, IF WE SO DESIRE.
A casual observance of the things of God will not cut it. We must put our heart into seeking Him.
Philippians 3:8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things [but] loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them [but] dung, that I may win Christ,
Philippians 3:10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;
Proverbs 2:5 Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.
II Peter 1:8 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make [you that ye shall] neither [be] barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
II Timothy 1:6 Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.
We should be seeking for the Anointing of God in our lives that enables us to administer the Spirit of God to those around us.
Friday, April 13, 2007
TILL WE COME
TILL WE COME
Ephesians 4:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
Ephesians 4:14 That we [henceforth] be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, [and] cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
The Holy Ghost, through Paul, is trying to tell us something here. First off, let's direct our attention to coming "to the unity of the faith, and the knowledge (epignosis-- full, complete knowledge) of the Son of God." Over fifty years ago, in the beginning of the Latter Rain movement, we were admonished to endeavour to keep the unity of the Spirit until we came to the unity of the faith. That admonition is still valid today. But many people have been asking, "How long is it going to take for us to get to the "unity of the faith?" It will take the same length of time as it takes us to come to the unity of the (Full) knowledge of the Son of God. They go together.
But there is something else here that has mostly eluded our attention. The third part of the equation is "unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ." Look with me. The Holy Ghost was not referring to our ability to do these things in ourselves. We could never accomplish such a task. Rather, the term, "stature of the fulness" is talking about the element of TIME in God's program and schedule. Full age.
GOD IS MAKING A MAN - HIS MAN. THE MAN IS NOT FINISHED YET. IT IS TO BE THE PERFECTED BODY OF CHRIST - THE MAN OF GOD - THE COUNTERPART OF WHAT THE BIBLE CALLS THE "MAN OF SIN" - THE KOSMOS, OR WORLD SYSTEM.
Neither "Man" has "come to a head" yet, but they are developing rapidly. NEITHER ONE IS A SINGLE PERSON! One is an organization - the other is an organism.
There will come a day when these two "men" will each have reached their maturity, and a SPIRITUAL battle will be pitched, for they can not co-exist on earth. One will be crushed, and eliminated. The other will go on and fill the whole earth. Do you know which one it will be?
An "aside" here: If you are still looking for a personal Antichrist, forget it - the whole nine yards - including the seven year covenant that will be broken. Antichrist is the KOSMOS, MAN OF SIN, THE WORLD ORDER, DESTINED TO BE SMASHED BY THE MAN OF GOD - THE BODY OF CHRIST.
KOSMOS IS RIGHT WITH US TODAY - HAS BEEN FOR CENTURIES -GROWING ALONG SIDE OF THE ECCLESIA. KOSMOS WILL BE REVEALED FOR WHAT IT IS, AND WILL BE DESTROYED BY THE BRIGHTNESS --.
But there is more!
Next verse tells us that we will no longer be tossed to and fro by every "wind" of doctrine. With this God-given maturity, there will also be given a complete understanding of His plan and purposes.
The Church has been bent first one way and then another by conflicting teachings and practices. To be free from them will be a pleasant relief. In the last several years there have been many "winds" that have blown.
First, a big-name Preacher would come out with what seemed like a good idea, such as "Discipleship", or "Chain of Command". The one that gave us a tussle several years ago, from Canada, was "Apostolic Authority." It was the Grandfather of Discipleship.
By the way, there is a good reason why Pearl and I do not rush to embrace some of these new ideas that are circulating in Charismatic circles today. We love the Charismatic people, but we are aware that they are repeating some of the same mistakes which were made by the early Pentecostal folks, and others that followed them. Most of the "new mistakes" are but revised versions of the old ones. We feel right at home with Charismatics.
A "pure language" WILL be given to the Church before the end. The watchmen WILL see eye to eye. The LORD will bring it about. He is the only one who can do it.
Proverbs 14:15 The simple believeth every word: but the prudent [man] looketh well to his going.
Isaiah 28:9 Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? [them that are] weaned from the milk, [and] drawn from the breasts.
Matthew 24:4 -- Take heed that no man deceive you.
Ephesians 4:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
Ephesians 4:14 That we [henceforth] be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, [and] cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
The Holy Ghost, through Paul, is trying to tell us something here. First off, let's direct our attention to coming "to the unity of the faith, and the knowledge (epignosis-- full, complete knowledge) of the Son of God." Over fifty years ago, in the beginning of the Latter Rain movement, we were admonished to endeavour to keep the unity of the Spirit until we came to the unity of the faith. That admonition is still valid today. But many people have been asking, "How long is it going to take for us to get to the "unity of the faith?" It will take the same length of time as it takes us to come to the unity of the (Full) knowledge of the Son of God. They go together.
But there is something else here that has mostly eluded our attention. The third part of the equation is "unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ." Look with me. The Holy Ghost was not referring to our ability to do these things in ourselves. We could never accomplish such a task. Rather, the term, "stature of the fulness" is talking about the element of TIME in God's program and schedule. Full age.
GOD IS MAKING A MAN - HIS MAN. THE MAN IS NOT FINISHED YET. IT IS TO BE THE PERFECTED BODY OF CHRIST - THE MAN OF GOD - THE COUNTERPART OF WHAT THE BIBLE CALLS THE "MAN OF SIN" - THE KOSMOS, OR WORLD SYSTEM.
Neither "Man" has "come to a head" yet, but they are developing rapidly. NEITHER ONE IS A SINGLE PERSON! One is an organization - the other is an organism.
There will come a day when these two "men" will each have reached their maturity, and a SPIRITUAL battle will be pitched, for they can not co-exist on earth. One will be crushed, and eliminated. The other will go on and fill the whole earth. Do you know which one it will be?
An "aside" here: If you are still looking for a personal Antichrist, forget it - the whole nine yards - including the seven year covenant that will be broken. Antichrist is the KOSMOS, MAN OF SIN, THE WORLD ORDER, DESTINED TO BE SMASHED BY THE MAN OF GOD - THE BODY OF CHRIST.
KOSMOS IS RIGHT WITH US TODAY - HAS BEEN FOR CENTURIES -GROWING ALONG SIDE OF THE ECCLESIA. KOSMOS WILL BE REVEALED FOR WHAT IT IS, AND WILL BE DESTROYED BY THE BRIGHTNESS --.
But there is more!
Next verse tells us that we will no longer be tossed to and fro by every "wind" of doctrine. With this God-given maturity, there will also be given a complete understanding of His plan and purposes.
The Church has been bent first one way and then another by conflicting teachings and practices. To be free from them will be a pleasant relief. In the last several years there have been many "winds" that have blown.
First, a big-name Preacher would come out with what seemed like a good idea, such as "Discipleship", or "Chain of Command". The one that gave us a tussle several years ago, from Canada, was "Apostolic Authority." It was the Grandfather of Discipleship.
By the way, there is a good reason why Pearl and I do not rush to embrace some of these new ideas that are circulating in Charismatic circles today. We love the Charismatic people, but we are aware that they are repeating some of the same mistakes which were made by the early Pentecostal folks, and others that followed them. Most of the "new mistakes" are but revised versions of the old ones. We feel right at home with Charismatics.
A "pure language" WILL be given to the Church before the end. The watchmen WILL see eye to eye. The LORD will bring it about. He is the only one who can do it.
Proverbs 14:15 The simple believeth every word: but the prudent [man] looketh well to his going.
Isaiah 28:9 Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? [them that are] weaned from the milk, [and] drawn from the breasts.
Matthew 24:4 -- Take heed that no man deceive you.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
CLOTHES OF A WOMAN
Hey Ladies!
Listen up!
A couple of days ago, I began a study of one of the doctrines that came to Pentecost from the followers of the Methodist Revival. The Holiness movement, if you will.
Now, I am a firm believer that human beings should dress modestly. What is good for women is also good for the men folks.
But I’m scared to death of making the “Word” say something that it “does not say”. That makes it into a lie, and the penalty for that is like playing with a bolt of lightning.
For a century or more, the ladies have come under condemnation if they wore garments that resembled the garments that men wore.
Of course, we all know that the Bible, as it has been translated into English, seems to condemn such a practice.
But does it, actually, forbid the wearing of articles of clothing that resemble those worn by men?
The answer, from all that I can learn, is a resounding “No, it DOES NOT.”
I went to the ONE place where the Bible mentions the subject, and here is what I found. I’ll import it with the Hebrew numbers, so you can see what I’m writing about.
Deu 22:5 The woman802 shall not3808 wear1961 that which pertaineth3627 unto a man,1397 neither3808 shall a man1397 put on3847 a woman's802 garment:8071 for3588 all3605 that do6213 so428 are abomination8441 unto the LORD3068 thy God.430
The first word we will examine is “PERTAINETH (3627). It is translated in various ways, but NEVER in a way that can be construed to mean articles of CLOTHING worn by a man, e.g.:
ARMOUR 11 TIMES
WEAPONS 4 TIMES
INSTRUMENTS 8 TIMES
STUFF (BAGGAGE) 11 TIMES
The next word I examined is “MAN” (1397). It is used over fifty times as “Man”, but not just ANY MAN.
Predominantly, it designates a member of the ARMED FORCES.
This would explain why the word “Pertaineth” designates instruments of warfare rather than shirts, pants (rags), shoes, and whatever else we might think of.
I THINK I HAVE DISCOVERED THE REASON FOR THIS.
The Children of Israel were destined to enter the Land of Canaan where the women DID put on armour, etc, in an idolatrous ritual at certain times, and stood and worshiped before the statue of Venus. I believe it was Adam Clarke who wrote about this in his Commentary of The Bible
Venus was thought to be BOTH male and female, so the MEN also dressed in the (rags) clothing that was customarily worn by women when they stood before (worshiped) Venus. Venus, similar to Dianna and Ashtoreth, was a WARRIOR GOD/ESS ) both male and female.
I looked up the word “abomination” (8441), and found that it was used many times in conjunction with the heathen practices of idolatry. The word is used over a hundred times, so I didn’t look them all up. The ones I did examine seemed to set a trend of hatred for idolatry in all forms. I was surprised to learn how many of the things that were forbidden to the Children of Israel turned out to be heathen idolatrous rituals, and were an abomination to the Lord.
I was also surprised to learn that whenever the Lord used the word “abomination” He was referring to heathen practices of idol worship.
Deu 12:29 When the LORD thy God shall cut off the nations from before thee, whither thou goest to possess them, and thou succeedest them, and dwellest in their land;
Deu 12:30 Take heed to thyself that thou be not snared by following them, after that they be destroyed from before thee; and that thou inquire not after their gods, saying, How did these nations serve their gods? even so will I do likewise.
Deu 12:31 Thou shalt not do so unto the LORD thy God: for every abomination to the LORD, which he hateth, have they done unto their gods; ---
The word that is translated “garment” (8071) is almost ALWAYS referring to clothes (rags, cloth) worn when going into public, both male and female.
We do have men running loose who do now dress up in the rags customarily worn by women (yuk). But we recognize them for what they are, and give them a wide berth. That is disgusting to even me.
It is true that times have changed, bringing with them a change in what men and women wear. It is also true that modern "women's pants" can, in NO WAY be classified as "that which pertaineth to a man".
I remember George Eads telling me, in the early 40's, to take a pair of woman slacks down town and try to get a man to own and wear them. They are not made for men, and no self-respecting man will wear them. They do not "pertain to a man".
Does anyone know when it was that women started wearing dresses instead of the wrap-around robes of Bible times? Men also wore the wrap-arounds at that time.
Possibly, you would not agree with my analysis of the scripture, and that would be your prerogative. However, if you really think that any of the clothing that is being marketed today for women would be accepted and worn by men who are not queer, give it a try. It is doubtful you would get any “takers”.
If the founders of the Holiness Doctrine could have only known the truth of what God was meaning when He forbid certain things, they would have saved the Christian Community a big bunch of unhappiness and needless concern.
So, ladies, don’t put on an armour and worship Venus or Ashtoreth.
Likewise, men, do not put on a dress, etc. and worship a statue of a female/male idol.
Listen up!
A couple of days ago, I began a study of one of the doctrines that came to Pentecost from the followers of the Methodist Revival. The Holiness movement, if you will.
Now, I am a firm believer that human beings should dress modestly. What is good for women is also good for the men folks.
But I’m scared to death of making the “Word” say something that it “does not say”. That makes it into a lie, and the penalty for that is like playing with a bolt of lightning.
For a century or more, the ladies have come under condemnation if they wore garments that resembled the garments that men wore.
Of course, we all know that the Bible, as it has been translated into English, seems to condemn such a practice.
But does it, actually, forbid the wearing of articles of clothing that resemble those worn by men?
The answer, from all that I can learn, is a resounding “No, it DOES NOT.”
I went to the ONE place where the Bible mentions the subject, and here is what I found. I’ll import it with the Hebrew numbers, so you can see what I’m writing about.
Deu 22:5 The woman802 shall not3808 wear1961 that which pertaineth3627 unto a man,1397 neither3808 shall a man1397 put on3847 a woman's802 garment:8071 for3588 all3605 that do6213 so428 are abomination8441 unto the LORD3068 thy God.430
The first word we will examine is “PERTAINETH (3627). It is translated in various ways, but NEVER in a way that can be construed to mean articles of CLOTHING worn by a man, e.g.:
ARMOUR 11 TIMES
WEAPONS 4 TIMES
INSTRUMENTS 8 TIMES
STUFF (BAGGAGE) 11 TIMES
The next word I examined is “MAN” (1397). It is used over fifty times as “Man”, but not just ANY MAN.
Predominantly, it designates a member of the ARMED FORCES.
This would explain why the word “Pertaineth” designates instruments of warfare rather than shirts, pants (rags), shoes, and whatever else we might think of.
I THINK I HAVE DISCOVERED THE REASON FOR THIS.
The Children of Israel were destined to enter the Land of Canaan where the women DID put on armour, etc, in an idolatrous ritual at certain times, and stood and worshiped before the statue of Venus. I believe it was Adam Clarke who wrote about this in his Commentary of The Bible
Venus was thought to be BOTH male and female, so the MEN also dressed in the (rags) clothing that was customarily worn by women when they stood before (worshiped) Venus. Venus, similar to Dianna and Ashtoreth, was a WARRIOR GOD/ESS ) both male and female.
I looked up the word “abomination” (8441), and found that it was used many times in conjunction with the heathen practices of idolatry. The word is used over a hundred times, so I didn’t look them all up. The ones I did examine seemed to set a trend of hatred for idolatry in all forms. I was surprised to learn how many of the things that were forbidden to the Children of Israel turned out to be heathen idolatrous rituals, and were an abomination to the Lord.
I was also surprised to learn that whenever the Lord used the word “abomination” He was referring to heathen practices of idol worship.
Deu 12:29 When the LORD thy God shall cut off the nations from before thee, whither thou goest to possess them, and thou succeedest them, and dwellest in their land;
Deu 12:30 Take heed to thyself that thou be not snared by following them, after that they be destroyed from before thee; and that thou inquire not after their gods, saying, How did these nations serve their gods? even so will I do likewise.
Deu 12:31 Thou shalt not do so unto the LORD thy God: for every abomination to the LORD, which he hateth, have they done unto their gods; ---
The word that is translated “garment” (8071) is almost ALWAYS referring to clothes (rags, cloth) worn when going into public, both male and female.
We do have men running loose who do now dress up in the rags customarily worn by women (yuk). But we recognize them for what they are, and give them a wide berth. That is disgusting to even me.
It is true that times have changed, bringing with them a change in what men and women wear. It is also true that modern "women's pants" can, in NO WAY be classified as "that which pertaineth to a man".
I remember George Eads telling me, in the early 40's, to take a pair of woman slacks down town and try to get a man to own and wear them. They are not made for men, and no self-respecting man will wear them. They do not "pertain to a man".
Does anyone know when it was that women started wearing dresses instead of the wrap-around robes of Bible times? Men also wore the wrap-arounds at that time.
Possibly, you would not agree with my analysis of the scripture, and that would be your prerogative. However, if you really think that any of the clothing that is being marketed today for women would be accepted and worn by men who are not queer, give it a try. It is doubtful you would get any “takers”.
If the founders of the Holiness Doctrine could have only known the truth of what God was meaning when He forbid certain things, they would have saved the Christian Community a big bunch of unhappiness and needless concern.
So, ladies, don’t put on an armour and worship Venus or Ashtoreth.
Likewise, men, do not put on a dress, etc. and worship a statue of a female/male idol.
THESE NECESSARY THINGS
THESE NECESSARY THINGS
When the Church was very young, the Lord surprised the Christians by extending Salvation to the Gentiles as well as to the Jewish people. Many were glad to see it happen, but others were dismayed to see that no “requirements of Salvation” were being laid on the Gentiles. The Jews, for 1500 years, had been required to be circumcised and keep the ceremonies of the Law of Moses. It was “second nature” to them, and they were troubled in mind that the Missionaries to the Gentiles (Paul and Barnabas) had not taught the new believers about those “requirements”.
There was a LARGE GROUP of these new believers at Antioch, and smaller groups in several other cities of the Gentiles. NONE OF THEM had been circumcised, nor were they observing the ceremonies of the Jews.
Some of the more zealous Jewish believers thought such a condition could not be allowed to continue, and organized a group of men who would go tell the Gentiles what they had to do in order to be saved. Apparently they still were not aware that the Law of Moses was DEAD. Jos 1:2 Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, ….
It caused problems right away. It was decided that a delegation be sent to Jerusalem to ask the Apostles and Elders about it
Act 15:6 And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter.
Act 15:7 And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago (at the house of Cornelius) God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe.
Act 15:8 And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, GIVING THEM THE HOLY GHOST, even as he did unto us;
Act 15:9 And put no difference between us and them, PURIFYING THEIR HEARTS BY FAITH.
Act 15:10 Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?
Act 15:11 But we believe that THROUGH THE GRACE OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST we shall be saved, even as they
Act 15:22 Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas: namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren:
Act 15:23 And they wrote letters by them after this manner; The apostles and elders and brethren send greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia.
Act 15:24 Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law: TO WHOM WE GAVE NO SUCH COMMANDMENT:
Act 15:25 It seemed good unto us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,
Act 15:26 Men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Act 15:27 We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same things by mouth.
Act 15:28 For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;
Act 15:29 That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well, Fare ye well.
Act 15:16 After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up:
Act 15:17 That the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things. (Amos 9:11,12)
Mic 6:6 Wherewith shall I come before the LORD, and bow myself before the high God? shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old?
Mic 6:7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?
Mic 6:8 He hath showed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?
Mat 23:1 Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples,
Mat 23:2 Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat:
Mat 23:3 All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.
Mat 23:4 For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.
Mat 23:5 But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments,
Mat 23:6 And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues,
Mat 23:7 And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.
Mat 23:8 But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren.
Mat 23:9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.
Mat 23:10 Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ.
Mat 23:11 But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.
Mat 23:12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
Mat 23:13 But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in.
Mat 23:14 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows' houses, and for a pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation.
Mat 23:15 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.
Mat 23:16 Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor!
Mat 23:17 Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold?
When the Church was very young, the Lord surprised the Christians by extending Salvation to the Gentiles as well as to the Jewish people. Many were glad to see it happen, but others were dismayed to see that no “requirements of Salvation” were being laid on the Gentiles. The Jews, for 1500 years, had been required to be circumcised and keep the ceremonies of the Law of Moses. It was “second nature” to them, and they were troubled in mind that the Missionaries to the Gentiles (Paul and Barnabas) had not taught the new believers about those “requirements”.
There was a LARGE GROUP of these new believers at Antioch, and smaller groups in several other cities of the Gentiles. NONE OF THEM had been circumcised, nor were they observing the ceremonies of the Jews.
Some of the more zealous Jewish believers thought such a condition could not be allowed to continue, and organized a group of men who would go tell the Gentiles what they had to do in order to be saved. Apparently they still were not aware that the Law of Moses was DEAD. Jos 1:2 Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, ….
It caused problems right away. It was decided that a delegation be sent to Jerusalem to ask the Apostles and Elders about it
Act 15:6 And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter.
Act 15:7 And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago (at the house of Cornelius) God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe.
Act 15:8 And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, GIVING THEM THE HOLY GHOST, even as he did unto us;
Act 15:9 And put no difference between us and them, PURIFYING THEIR HEARTS BY FAITH.
Act 15:10 Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?
Act 15:11 But we believe that THROUGH THE GRACE OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST we shall be saved, even as they
Act 15:22 Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas: namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren:
Act 15:23 And they wrote letters by them after this manner; The apostles and elders and brethren send greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia.
Act 15:24 Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law: TO WHOM WE GAVE NO SUCH COMMANDMENT:
Act 15:25 It seemed good unto us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,
Act 15:26 Men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Act 15:27 We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same things by mouth.
Act 15:28 For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;
Act 15:29 That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well, Fare ye well.
Act 15:16 After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up:
Act 15:17 That the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things. (Amos 9:11,12)
Mic 6:6 Wherewith shall I come before the LORD, and bow myself before the high God? shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old?
Mic 6:7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?
Mic 6:8 He hath showed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?
Mat 23:1 Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples,
Mat 23:2 Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat:
Mat 23:3 All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.
Mat 23:4 For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.
Mat 23:5 But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments,
Mat 23:6 And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues,
Mat 23:7 And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.
Mat 23:8 But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren.
Mat 23:9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.
Mat 23:10 Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ.
Mat 23:11 But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.
Mat 23:12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
Mat 23:13 But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in.
Mat 23:14 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows' houses, and for a pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation.
Mat 23:15 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.
Mat 23:16 Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor!
Mat 23:17 Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold?
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
THE HAIR OF A WOMAN
When I was a kid, in the 1920’s, my mother and sisters all wore their hair long. I didn’t think much about it, until one day Bernice had one of the Stemper boys (closest neighbors down the road) do a “bob job” on her head.
When Papa got home from the fields that day, he “went into orbit” BIG TIME. I didn’t get to see all of it, for I was still in the age of “protection” from the crises of the family.
But, a family crisis it was, of major proportions, for Papa and Mama were desperately determined to be pleasing in the sight of the Lord.
I never was told what the solution was determined to be, but I did know that there was a considerable amount of extra Bible reading done for several day after that.
When I became older, and married, I became concerned about being right in the sight of God. I wanted to be sure that I directed my family in the way that was right, according to the Scriptures. I have often wished I had asked Papa how he resolved the issue in his own mind, but I regrettably neglected to do it until it was too late.
As I studied the main spot in the New Testament where it gives instruction about women having long hair , (1 Cor 11) I would give up in despair, for it was so hard to understand why God would be so concerned about such things.
I could not see the correlation between 1Cor 11 and the place where it said that “In Christ there is not male, female, bond or free, etc, (Gal 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.)
Which is correct? Surely there is a valid explanation if I can find it. But I had to repeatedly return it to the “shelf” for lack of understanding. I have done that many times on different subjects while seeking for an answer to knotty problems.
The Lord has never failed me yet. He has always answered my questions if I would wait patiently on Him for the answer. One day He gave me the beginning of the explanation about long hair for women.
He said to my spirit, “It was a Jewish custom that was carried over into the Church by Jewish men who came to know Jesus. It was NEVER a COMMAND OF GOD.
Could I believe my “spiritual ears”? Was it really from the Lord, or had I heard another voice?
It was ONLY a beginning, for there were many unanswered questions. Some pastors were making a real issue of long hair for women—even to the point of making it a SIN to not have it.
I was definitely “bucking the current” of opinion in certain Pentecostal circles. I figured the best thing I could do was to “keep my neck drawn in” and not say too much. That approach was definitely contrary to my usual modus operandi, for if I knew something, I wanted to tell everyone I saw about it. In my heart there was a smattering of contempt for anyone who knew something, but would not preach or teach it for fear it would not be accepted, or that “the people were not ready for it yet.”
Then, one day recently, I was re-reading 1Cor 11, and I had a hard time getting past one word. The word “ORDINANCES” captured my attention, and wouldn’t “let go”. What is an ordinance, in Bible language?
1Co 11:2 Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ORDINANCES, as I delivered them to you.
I was shocked by what I found in the E-sword Bible program on my computer. The Hebrew/Greek portion gives the definition of the original words, and where they are used in the different ways in the King James Version of the Bible.
G3862
παράδοσις
paradosis (Definition, in part: “Specifically the Jewish Traditionary Law”) MF.
Total KJV Occurrences: 13
tradition, 10
Mat_15:2-3 (2), Mat_15:6, Mar_7:3, Mar_7:5, Mar_7:8-9 (2), Mar_7:13, Col_2:8, 2Th_3:6
traditions, 2
Gal_1:14, 2Th_2:15
ordinances, 1
1Co_11:2
You can look them up yourself, but please note that in no instance is the word “COMMAND” or “OF GOD” used. Fact is, in MOST of the places where the word is used it is CONTRASTING the TRADITIONS OF MEN with the COMMANDS OF GOD.
Let’s look at some of them. The words are marked with a *---*
Mat 15:1 Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying,
Mat 15:2 WHY DO THY DISCIPLES TRANSGRESS THE *TRADITION*of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread.
Mat 15:3 But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye ALSO TRANSGRESS THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD BY YOUR *TRADITION*?
Mat 15:4 For God commanded, saying, Honor thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.
Mat 15:5 But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me;
Mat 15:6 And honor not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the COMMANDMENT OF GOD OF NONE EFFECT BY YOUR *TRADITION*.
Mar 7:2 And when they saw some of his disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashen, hands, they found fault.
Mar 7:3 For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, HOLDING THE *TRADITION* OF THE ELDERS.
Mar 7:4 And when they come from the market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things there be, WHICH THEY HAVE RECEIVED TO HOLD, as the washing of cups, and pots, brazen vessels, and of tables.
Mar 7:5 Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, Why walk not thy disciples ACCORDING TO THE *TRADITION* OF THE ELDERS, but eat bread with unwashen hands?
Mar 7:6 He answered and said unto them, Well hath Isaiah prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoreth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.
Mar 7:7 Howbeit in vain do they worship me, TEACHING FOR DOCTRINES THE COMMANDMENTS OF MEN.
Mar 7:8 FOR LAYING ASIDE THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD, YE HOLD THE *TRADITION* OF MEN, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.
Mar 7:9 And he said unto them, Full well YE REJECT THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD, THAT YE MAY KEEP YOUR OWN *TRADITION*.
Mar 7:13 MAKING THE WORD OF GOD OF NONE EFFECT THROUGH YOUR *TRADITION*, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.
Col 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, AFTER THE *TRADITION* OF MEN, AFTER THE RUDIMENTS OF THE WORLD, AND NOT AFTER CHRIST.
2Th 3:6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and NOT AFTER THE *TRADITION* WHICH HE RECEIVED OF US.
Gal 1:14 And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, BEING MORE EXCEEDINGLY ZEALOUS OF THE * TRADITIONS* OF MY FATHERS.
2Th 2:15 Therefore, brethren, STAND FAST, AND HOLD THE *TRADITIONS* WHICH YE HAVE BEEN TAUGHT, WHETHER BY WORD, OR OUR EPISTLE.
1Co 11:2 Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, AND KEEP THE *ORDINANCES*, AS I DELIVERED THEM TO YOU.
I had, then, heard the Spirit correctly when He explained to me in earlier years, that the teachings of Paul to the Corinthians were the JEWISH CUSTOMS adapted to the Church of the Living God. THEY WERE NOT THE COMMANDS OF GOD!
We see the same influence of the Jewish traditions in the first epistle to Timothy.
They were classic cases of Missionaries establishing the customs of their native country in the Churches and lives of the folks they win to Jesus Christ from different cultures. They won’t always fit.
Pentecost has some very wonderful Truths, and we rejoice in them. Pentecost also has some hurtful traditions (customs) that were brought in by the people who came in from other denominations. Unfortunately, some of those traditions are becoming established as DIVINE EDICTS in some areas of the Christian Community.
They will produce nothing but confusion and sorrow down the road a bit farther.
When we understand the intense displeasure of the high ranking Jews (Paul had been one of them) toward the female gender, we can readily perceive what his thinking had been.
My understanding of Jewish theology is that they blamed Eve for ALL of the problems of the human race. Women were necessary, but they were also basically evil. They COULD BE, and SHOULD BE treated with utmost disrespect. A Jewish man MUST at all costs, keep his woman under control. He could beat her for the slightest mistake. He could also divorce her for any reason that was handy. The teaching of Jesus was causing some difficulty to that custom. Hence: Mat 19:3 The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?
I read somewhere that the VERY RELIGIOUS Jewish men had such disdain for their “necessary, but evil” wife that they would not even look at her body while using it for their own gratification.
That would help us to understand some of Paul’s writings. I am glad he was honest enough to never say they were commands from God. THEY ARE NOT!
Ti 2:9 In 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.
1Ti 2:10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.
1Ti 2:11 Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.
1Ti 2:12 But I (Paul) suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.
1Ti 2:13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve.
1Ti 2:14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.
1Ti 2:15 Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.
Oh, By the way! The term “Long Hair” comes from the Greek word that means “Tressed”, or “Ringlets”—Curled, if you please.
It doesn’t give any other definition, like Centimeters, Inches, etc..
When Papa got home from the fields that day, he “went into orbit” BIG TIME. I didn’t get to see all of it, for I was still in the age of “protection” from the crises of the family.
But, a family crisis it was, of major proportions, for Papa and Mama were desperately determined to be pleasing in the sight of the Lord.
I never was told what the solution was determined to be, but I did know that there was a considerable amount of extra Bible reading done for several day after that.
When I became older, and married, I became concerned about being right in the sight of God. I wanted to be sure that I directed my family in the way that was right, according to the Scriptures. I have often wished I had asked Papa how he resolved the issue in his own mind, but I regrettably neglected to do it until it was too late.
As I studied the main spot in the New Testament where it gives instruction about women having long hair , (1 Cor 11) I would give up in despair, for it was so hard to understand why God would be so concerned about such things.
I could not see the correlation between 1Cor 11 and the place where it said that “In Christ there is not male, female, bond or free, etc, (Gal 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.)
Which is correct? Surely there is a valid explanation if I can find it. But I had to repeatedly return it to the “shelf” for lack of understanding. I have done that many times on different subjects while seeking for an answer to knotty problems.
The Lord has never failed me yet. He has always answered my questions if I would wait patiently on Him for the answer. One day He gave me the beginning of the explanation about long hair for women.
He said to my spirit, “It was a Jewish custom that was carried over into the Church by Jewish men who came to know Jesus. It was NEVER a COMMAND OF GOD.
Could I believe my “spiritual ears”? Was it really from the Lord, or had I heard another voice?
It was ONLY a beginning, for there were many unanswered questions. Some pastors were making a real issue of long hair for women—even to the point of making it a SIN to not have it.
I was definitely “bucking the current” of opinion in certain Pentecostal circles. I figured the best thing I could do was to “keep my neck drawn in” and not say too much. That approach was definitely contrary to my usual modus operandi, for if I knew something, I wanted to tell everyone I saw about it. In my heart there was a smattering of contempt for anyone who knew something, but would not preach or teach it for fear it would not be accepted, or that “the people were not ready for it yet.”
Then, one day recently, I was re-reading 1Cor 11, and I had a hard time getting past one word. The word “ORDINANCES” captured my attention, and wouldn’t “let go”. What is an ordinance, in Bible language?
1Co 11:2 Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ORDINANCES, as I delivered them to you.
I was shocked by what I found in the E-sword Bible program on my computer. The Hebrew/Greek portion gives the definition of the original words, and where they are used in the different ways in the King James Version of the Bible.
G3862
παράδοσις
paradosis (Definition, in part: “Specifically the Jewish Traditionary Law”) MF.
Total KJV Occurrences: 13
tradition, 10
Mat_15:2-3 (2), Mat_15:6, Mar_7:3, Mar_7:5, Mar_7:8-9 (2), Mar_7:13, Col_2:8, 2Th_3:6
traditions, 2
Gal_1:14, 2Th_2:15
ordinances, 1
1Co_11:2
You can look them up yourself, but please note that in no instance is the word “COMMAND” or “OF GOD” used. Fact is, in MOST of the places where the word is used it is CONTRASTING the TRADITIONS OF MEN with the COMMANDS OF GOD.
Let’s look at some of them. The words are marked with a *---*
Mat 15:1 Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying,
Mat 15:2 WHY DO THY DISCIPLES TRANSGRESS THE *TRADITION*of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread.
Mat 15:3 But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye ALSO TRANSGRESS THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD BY YOUR *TRADITION*?
Mat 15:4 For God commanded, saying, Honor thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.
Mat 15:5 But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me;
Mat 15:6 And honor not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the COMMANDMENT OF GOD OF NONE EFFECT BY YOUR *TRADITION*.
Mar 7:2 And when they saw some of his disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashen, hands, they found fault.
Mar 7:3 For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, HOLDING THE *TRADITION* OF THE ELDERS.
Mar 7:4 And when they come from the market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things there be, WHICH THEY HAVE RECEIVED TO HOLD, as the washing of cups, and pots, brazen vessels, and of tables.
Mar 7:5 Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, Why walk not thy disciples ACCORDING TO THE *TRADITION* OF THE ELDERS, but eat bread with unwashen hands?
Mar 7:6 He answered and said unto them, Well hath Isaiah prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoreth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.
Mar 7:7 Howbeit in vain do they worship me, TEACHING FOR DOCTRINES THE COMMANDMENTS OF MEN.
Mar 7:8 FOR LAYING ASIDE THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD, YE HOLD THE *TRADITION* OF MEN, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.
Mar 7:9 And he said unto them, Full well YE REJECT THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD, THAT YE MAY KEEP YOUR OWN *TRADITION*.
Mar 7:13 MAKING THE WORD OF GOD OF NONE EFFECT THROUGH YOUR *TRADITION*, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.
Col 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, AFTER THE *TRADITION* OF MEN, AFTER THE RUDIMENTS OF THE WORLD, AND NOT AFTER CHRIST.
2Th 3:6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and NOT AFTER THE *TRADITION* WHICH HE RECEIVED OF US.
Gal 1:14 And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, BEING MORE EXCEEDINGLY ZEALOUS OF THE * TRADITIONS* OF MY FATHERS.
2Th 2:15 Therefore, brethren, STAND FAST, AND HOLD THE *TRADITIONS* WHICH YE HAVE BEEN TAUGHT, WHETHER BY WORD, OR OUR EPISTLE.
1Co 11:2 Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, AND KEEP THE *ORDINANCES*, AS I DELIVERED THEM TO YOU.
I had, then, heard the Spirit correctly when He explained to me in earlier years, that the teachings of Paul to the Corinthians were the JEWISH CUSTOMS adapted to the Church of the Living God. THEY WERE NOT THE COMMANDS OF GOD!
We see the same influence of the Jewish traditions in the first epistle to Timothy.
They were classic cases of Missionaries establishing the customs of their native country in the Churches and lives of the folks they win to Jesus Christ from different cultures. They won’t always fit.
Pentecost has some very wonderful Truths, and we rejoice in them. Pentecost also has some hurtful traditions (customs) that were brought in by the people who came in from other denominations. Unfortunately, some of those traditions are becoming established as DIVINE EDICTS in some areas of the Christian Community.
They will produce nothing but confusion and sorrow down the road a bit farther.
When we understand the intense displeasure of the high ranking Jews (Paul had been one of them) toward the female gender, we can readily perceive what his thinking had been.
My understanding of Jewish theology is that they blamed Eve for ALL of the problems of the human race. Women were necessary, but they were also basically evil. They COULD BE, and SHOULD BE treated with utmost disrespect. A Jewish man MUST at all costs, keep his woman under control. He could beat her for the slightest mistake. He could also divorce her for any reason that was handy. The teaching of Jesus was causing some difficulty to that custom. Hence: Mat 19:3 The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?
I read somewhere that the VERY RELIGIOUS Jewish men had such disdain for their “necessary, but evil” wife that they would not even look at her body while using it for their own gratification.
That would help us to understand some of Paul’s writings. I am glad he was honest enough to never say they were commands from God. THEY ARE NOT!
Ti 2:9 In 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.
1Ti 2:10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.
1Ti 2:11 Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.
1Ti 2:12 But I (Paul) suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.
1Ti 2:13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve.
1Ti 2:14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.
1Ti 2:15 Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.
Oh, By the way! The term “Long Hair” comes from the Greek word that means “Tressed”, or “Ringlets”—Curled, if you please.
It doesn’t give any other definition, like Centimeters, Inches, etc..
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