CHANGED INTO THE SAME IMAGE
II Corinthians 3:17 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord [is], there [is] liberty. But we all, with OPEN FACE beholding as IN A GLASS the GLORY of the Lord, are CHANGED into the SAME IMAGE from GLORY to GLORY, [even] as BY THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD.
I heard something a few evenings ago that "hit like a ton of bricks".
I have been ministering about the Lord wanting us to become OVERCOMERS after we have made our peace with Him. This is a facet of the Christian life that has been, I fear, terribly neglected by Christians in general.
But, as I analyzed the verses, I discovered that there is a secret contained in them, which, if put into practice, will produce outstanding results in our quest for the likeness of Jesus in our lives.
FIRST: The term "OPEN FACE" comes from a word which means "no covering" or "unveiled". Our modern vernacular would be "what you see is what you get"-- we have nothing to hide-- we have no subterfuge, no reservations. This is the BEST way to deal with any person or thing we come in contact with. It is the ONLY way to deal with God. Other humans might have to guess at our true motives, but GOD KNOWS THEM ALREADY.
NEXT: "BEHOLDING AS IN A GLASS"-- speaks to us of the comparison which can be drawn between HIS HOLINESS and our lack of it. Looking at the GLORY OF THE LORD tells us something about ourselves-- IMMEDIATELY.
Many folks are tempted to give up in despair when they make the comparison between the face of Jesus and themselves. But, here in the Word is the solution, and immensely heartening hope for each of us.
We CAN become more like Jesus-- in every aspect of our lives. And the process is a relatively simple one-- "BEHOLDING... THE GLORY OF GOD."
What does it mean-- to BEHOLD THE GLORY OF GOD? I can not give a testimony for you, but I know what it means to me. The Christian community has, for the most part, lost the art of WORSHIP to God. We PRAISE HIM in various ways, but praise can NEVER take the place of real heart-felt worship.
David had discovered the formula about a thousand years before Jesus was born. AND IT CHANGED DAVID'S LIFE, just like it will change ours today, if we will do it.
Psalms 27:4 One [thing] have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in His temple.
I Chronicles 29:3 Moreover, because I have set my affection to the house of my God, ----
Third: We are CHANGED into the SAME IMAGE--, from Glory to Glory-- a process that involves TIME and CONCENTRATION. The word "changed" comes from "Metamorphoo", which is the process by which a caterpillar is transformed into a butterfly. The real meaning is to be transfigured, or transformed.
Fourth: EVEN AS BY THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD. Friend, this is the WORK OF GOD. It can not be accomplished by human efforts. Resolutions are futile. Good intentions fall flat. Education is totally inadequate. Our most noble efforts are exercises in futility.
Spending QUALITY TIME with the Lord (not necessarily FOR the Lord) seems, to me, to be the master key which can make it all happen in our lives.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
IMPOSSIBLE
Two or three passages in the book of Hebrews were real scary to me for many years. But one day a man explained them to me, and now I no longer fear the word "Impossible". Let's get the scriptures out where we can see what I am writing about.
Hebrews 6:4 For [it is] impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put [him] to an open shame
Our writer to the Hebrews was dealing with a specific problem which was peculiar to the Hebrew Christians living in the midst of other Hebrews who were NOT CHRISTIAN. He was urging them to (Hebrews 10:35) Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.
His reason for doing this was to encourage the Hebrew Christians to not give up their faith in the face of the terrible opposition they were facing. And what were they facing?
They had come up against economic sanctions in the market place - unless --. No one would sell them the things they needed to live - unless --. Neither would anyone buy what they had to sell - unless --. Their own families and friends would have nothing to do with them - unless --. They lost their jobs, and no one would hire them - unless --.
Unless, that is, they would "Fall away", (Gr. Parapipto) (deliberately turn away) from their trust in Jesus for the well being of their soul, rather than the Law of Moses.
Unless, that is, they would publicly denounce Jesus and His blood by a ceremony in which they would, in effigy, trample on Jesus and His blood.
It is referred to in Hebrews 10:29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?
Christians today have no such opposition, at least not in the American Christian society, so we would be less apt to denounce Jesus in such a way.
The writer was telling them it was futile to turn back to the Law, away from Jesus and His scarifice, because the Law provided no sacrifice for sins any longer. Jesus had put an end to that when He offered Himself on the Cross. Let's read it in Hebrews 10:26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,
Hebrews 10:14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.
Hebrews 7:27 Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself.
Hebrews 9:14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
He was also encouraging them to not drop off one of the identifying marks of Christianity-- Assembling together for the sake of public worship, and to encourage one another. Hebrews 10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some [is]; but exhorting [one another]: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. This is still a vital part of our Christian Faith. It worries me to see how our Christian Brethren are dropping off from Sunday Evening services. It is a bad omen, signaling a cooling off in our spirits. No way are we doing it to avoid persecution. We are just plain lazy and uncaring.
Hebrews 6:4 For [it is] impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put [him] to an open shame
Our writer to the Hebrews was dealing with a specific problem which was peculiar to the Hebrew Christians living in the midst of other Hebrews who were NOT CHRISTIAN. He was urging them to (Hebrews 10:35) Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.
His reason for doing this was to encourage the Hebrew Christians to not give up their faith in the face of the terrible opposition they were facing. And what were they facing?
They had come up against economic sanctions in the market place - unless --. No one would sell them the things they needed to live - unless --. Neither would anyone buy what they had to sell - unless --. Their own families and friends would have nothing to do with them - unless --. They lost their jobs, and no one would hire them - unless --.
Unless, that is, they would "Fall away", (Gr. Parapipto) (deliberately turn away) from their trust in Jesus for the well being of their soul, rather than the Law of Moses.
Unless, that is, they would publicly denounce Jesus and His blood by a ceremony in which they would, in effigy, trample on Jesus and His blood.
It is referred to in Hebrews 10:29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?
Christians today have no such opposition, at least not in the American Christian society, so we would be less apt to denounce Jesus in such a way.
The writer was telling them it was futile to turn back to the Law, away from Jesus and His scarifice, because the Law provided no sacrifice for sins any longer. Jesus had put an end to that when He offered Himself on the Cross. Let's read it in Hebrews 10:26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,
Hebrews 10:14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.
Hebrews 7:27 Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself.
Hebrews 9:14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
He was also encouraging them to not drop off one of the identifying marks of Christianity-- Assembling together for the sake of public worship, and to encourage one another. Hebrews 10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some [is]; but exhorting [one another]: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. This is still a vital part of our Christian Faith. It worries me to see how our Christian Brethren are dropping off from Sunday Evening services. It is a bad omen, signaling a cooling off in our spirits. No way are we doing it to avoid persecution. We are just plain lazy and uncaring.
Monday, May 28, 2007
THE ANOINTING OF JESUS
THE ANOINTING OF JESUS
Peter, at the house of Cornelius, made a statement which helps to explain some of the "why's and wherefore's" of the Ministry of Jesus on earth.
There seems to be some confusion about what it was that started Jesus out in His Ministry, and what ended it while He was on the Cross.
Peter gave an explanation of what started that Ministry.
Acts 10:38 How GOD ANOINTED JESUS OF NAZARETH WITH THE HOLY GHOST AND WITH POWER: (emphasis mine) who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.
I doubt that ANY of us can say, with any degree of certainty, what mixture of physical and Spiritual elements Jesus possessed BEFORE HIS BAPTISM in Jordan. I wouldn't argue that point-- even if I could. Except to say, that is, that JESUS WAS NOT GOD INCARNATE AT HIS BIRTH.
If He was INCARNATE AT BIRTH, the Catholics, with their "Mary, Mother of God" teachings, have had us whipped both going and coming.
Something happened in Jordan, which Peter called the ANOINTING.
John had argued with Jesus about who should baptize whom before they went into the water. John KNEW who Jesus was before the ceremony took place.
John 1:29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
John 1:36 And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!
John NEEDED NO SIGN from Heaven to know who Jesus was.
Mat 3:16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: Mat 3:17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
Mark 1:10 And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him: And there came a voice from heaven, [saying], Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And immediately the Spirit driveth him into the wilderness.
Jesus then began to speak the Words of God, though He referred to Himself as the Son of Man.
John 3:34 For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure [unto him].
John 6:63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, [they] are spirit, and [they] are life.
Luke 4:17 And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written, The Spirit of the Lord [is] upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.
The earthly Ministry of Jesus ended as abruptly as it had begun, as He hung on the cross.
Mark 15:33 And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me And Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost. And some of them that stood by, when they heard [it], said, Behold, he calleth Elias. And one ran and filled a spunge full of vinegar, and put [it] on a reed, and gave him to drink, saying, Let alone; let us see whether Elias will come to take him down. And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom.
Chronologically, Jesus cried in anguish of having been FORSAKEN OF GOD BEFORE THE MOMENT OF DEATH. He died, laden with the sins of the world, not as an innocent, sinless man. The transfer of sins and guilt/innocence and purity had been made by God just prior to death.
Isaiah 53:4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
Isaiah 53:6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD HATH LAID ON HIM the iniquity of us all.
II Corinthians 5:21 For he hath made him [to be] sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
Acts 10:40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, [even] to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead
Peter, at the house of Cornelius, made a statement which helps to explain some of the "why's and wherefore's" of the Ministry of Jesus on earth.
There seems to be some confusion about what it was that started Jesus out in His Ministry, and what ended it while He was on the Cross.
Peter gave an explanation of what started that Ministry.
Acts 10:38 How GOD ANOINTED JESUS OF NAZARETH WITH THE HOLY GHOST AND WITH POWER: (emphasis mine) who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.
I doubt that ANY of us can say, with any degree of certainty, what mixture of physical and Spiritual elements Jesus possessed BEFORE HIS BAPTISM in Jordan. I wouldn't argue that point-- even if I could. Except to say, that is, that JESUS WAS NOT GOD INCARNATE AT HIS BIRTH.
If He was INCARNATE AT BIRTH, the Catholics, with their "Mary, Mother of God" teachings, have had us whipped both going and coming.
Something happened in Jordan, which Peter called the ANOINTING.
John had argued with Jesus about who should baptize whom before they went into the water. John KNEW who Jesus was before the ceremony took place.
John 1:29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
John 1:36 And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!
John NEEDED NO SIGN from Heaven to know who Jesus was.
Mat 3:16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: Mat 3:17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
Mark 1:10 And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him: And there came a voice from heaven, [saying], Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And immediately the Spirit driveth him into the wilderness.
Jesus then began to speak the Words of God, though He referred to Himself as the Son of Man.
John 3:34 For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure [unto him].
John 6:63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, [they] are spirit, and [they] are life.
Luke 4:17 And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written, The Spirit of the Lord [is] upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.
The earthly Ministry of Jesus ended as abruptly as it had begun, as He hung on the cross.
Mark 15:33 And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me And Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost. And some of them that stood by, when they heard [it], said, Behold, he calleth Elias. And one ran and filled a spunge full of vinegar, and put [it] on a reed, and gave him to drink, saying, Let alone; let us see whether Elias will come to take him down. And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom.
Chronologically, Jesus cried in anguish of having been FORSAKEN OF GOD BEFORE THE MOMENT OF DEATH. He died, laden with the sins of the world, not as an innocent, sinless man. The transfer of sins and guilt/innocence and purity had been made by God just prior to death.
Isaiah 53:4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
Isaiah 53:6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD HATH LAID ON HIM the iniquity of us all.
II Corinthians 5:21 For he hath made him [to be] sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
Acts 10:40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, [even] to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead
Sunday, May 27, 2007
THE LIGHT OF THY COUNTENANCE
IN THE LIGHT OF THY COUNTENANCE
Have you ever wondered why some projects prosper while others fall flat on their face? I have, many times.
I believe the Lord gave me an insight a few days ago about some of the reasons for it all.
I discovered that the FACE OF THE LORD makes all the difference in the world.
His FACE is turned either TOWARD us, or AGAINST US. It is determined almost entirely by our relationship to Him and His Desires for us.
The ATTITUDE we display toward God and HIS PRINCIPLES helps to determine whether we will have His BLESSING, or whether we will be HINDERED in what we try to do. It is often much easier, and convenient, for us to SAY that we love the Lord than it is to conform our life style to His Principles. We often find ourselves in the unhappy state of “drawing nigh with our lips when our heart is far from Him.”
Sometimes we verbally ask the Lord to BLESS US, while our ACTIONS ARE SCREAMING FOR A GOOD PADDLING.
The Lord is more concerned with what we ARE than in what we can SAY or DO.
“I often say my prayers, but do I ever pray?
And do the feelings of my heart go with the words I say?
I may as well kneel down and worship gods of stone
As offer to the Living God a prayer of words alone.
For words without the heart the Lord will never hear
Nor will He to these lips attend, whose prayers are not sincere.”
Few writers could express the desire for the approval of the Lord better than the Psalmist did.
(Psa 13:1) How long wilt thou forget me, O LORD? forever? how long wilt thou hide thy face from me?
(Psa 27:9) Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.
(Psa 30:7) LORD, by thy favor thou hast made my mountain to stand strong: thou didst hide thy face, and I was troubled.
(Psa 69:17) And hide not thy face from thy servant; for I am in trouble: hear me speedily.
(Psa 102:2) Hide not thy face from me in the day when I am in trouble; incline thine ear unto me: in the day when I call answer me speedily.
(Psa 143:7) Hear me speedily, O LORD: my spirit faileth: hide not thy face from me, lest I be like unto them that go down into the pit.
(Psa 89:15) Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O LORD, in the light of thy countenance.
(Psa 4:6) There be many that say, Who will show us any good? LORD, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us.
(Psa 44:3) For they got not the land in possession by their own sword, neither did their own arm save them: but thy right hand, and thine arm, and the light of thy countenance, because thou hadst a favor unto them.
(Mic 3:4) Then shall they cry unto the LORD, but he will not hear them: he will even hide his face from them at that time, as they have behaved themselves ill in their doings.
(Deu 31:17) Then my anger shall be kindled against them in that day, and I will forsake them, and I will hide my face from them, and they shall be devoured, and many evils and troubles shall befall them; so that they will say in that day, Are not these evils come upon us, because our God is not among us? :18) And I will surely hide my face in that day for all the evils which they shall have wrought, in that they are turned unto other gods.
Following is a copy of a note I have carried in my Bible for many years. The late John Lake gave it to me.
"I would rather play with the forked lightning, or take in my hand live wires, with their fiery current, than to speak a reckless word against any servant of Christ, or idly repeat the slanderous darts which thousands of Christians are hurling on others, to the hurt of their OWN SOULS AND BODIES.
You may wonder, perhaps, why your sickness is not healed, your spirit filled with the joy of the Holy Ghost, or your life blessed and prosperous. It may be that some dart which you have flung with angry voice, or in an idle hour of thoughtless gossip, is pursuing you on its way, as it describes the circle which always brings back to the source from which it came every idle shaft of bitterness, and every idle word.
Let us remember that when we persecute or hurt the children of God, we are but persecuting Him, and hurting OURSELVES far more.
Lord, make me as sensitive to the feelings and rights of others as I have often been to my own, and let me live and love like Thee."
----A. B. Simpson
Have you ever wondered why some projects prosper while others fall flat on their face? I have, many times.
I believe the Lord gave me an insight a few days ago about some of the reasons for it all.
I discovered that the FACE OF THE LORD makes all the difference in the world.
His FACE is turned either TOWARD us, or AGAINST US. It is determined almost entirely by our relationship to Him and His Desires for us.
The ATTITUDE we display toward God and HIS PRINCIPLES helps to determine whether we will have His BLESSING, or whether we will be HINDERED in what we try to do. It is often much easier, and convenient, for us to SAY that we love the Lord than it is to conform our life style to His Principles. We often find ourselves in the unhappy state of “drawing nigh with our lips when our heart is far from Him.”
Sometimes we verbally ask the Lord to BLESS US, while our ACTIONS ARE SCREAMING FOR A GOOD PADDLING.
The Lord is more concerned with what we ARE than in what we can SAY or DO.
“I often say my prayers, but do I ever pray?
And do the feelings of my heart go with the words I say?
I may as well kneel down and worship gods of stone
As offer to the Living God a prayer of words alone.
For words without the heart the Lord will never hear
Nor will He to these lips attend, whose prayers are not sincere.”
Few writers could express the desire for the approval of the Lord better than the Psalmist did.
(Psa 13:1) How long wilt thou forget me, O LORD? forever? how long wilt thou hide thy face from me?
(Psa 27:9) Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.
(Psa 30:7) LORD, by thy favor thou hast made my mountain to stand strong: thou didst hide thy face, and I was troubled.
(Psa 69:17) And hide not thy face from thy servant; for I am in trouble: hear me speedily.
(Psa 102:2) Hide not thy face from me in the day when I am in trouble; incline thine ear unto me: in the day when I call answer me speedily.
(Psa 143:7) Hear me speedily, O LORD: my spirit faileth: hide not thy face from me, lest I be like unto them that go down into the pit.
(Psa 89:15) Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O LORD, in the light of thy countenance.
(Psa 4:6) There be many that say, Who will show us any good? LORD, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us.
(Psa 44:3) For they got not the land in possession by their own sword, neither did their own arm save them: but thy right hand, and thine arm, and the light of thy countenance, because thou hadst a favor unto them.
(Mic 3:4) Then shall they cry unto the LORD, but he will not hear them: he will even hide his face from them at that time, as they have behaved themselves ill in their doings.
(Deu 31:17) Then my anger shall be kindled against them in that day, and I will forsake them, and I will hide my face from them, and they shall be devoured, and many evils and troubles shall befall them; so that they will say in that day, Are not these evils come upon us, because our God is not among us? :18) And I will surely hide my face in that day for all the evils which they shall have wrought, in that they are turned unto other gods.
Following is a copy of a note I have carried in my Bible for many years. The late John Lake gave it to me.
"I would rather play with the forked lightning, or take in my hand live wires, with their fiery current, than to speak a reckless word against any servant of Christ, or idly repeat the slanderous darts which thousands of Christians are hurling on others, to the hurt of their OWN SOULS AND BODIES.
You may wonder, perhaps, why your sickness is not healed, your spirit filled with the joy of the Holy Ghost, or your life blessed and prosperous. It may be that some dart which you have flung with angry voice, or in an idle hour of thoughtless gossip, is pursuing you on its way, as it describes the circle which always brings back to the source from which it came every idle shaft of bitterness, and every idle word.
Let us remember that when we persecute or hurt the children of God, we are but persecuting Him, and hurting OURSELVES far more.
Lord, make me as sensitive to the feelings and rights of others as I have often been to my own, and let me live and love like Thee."
----A. B. Simpson
Saturday, May 26, 2007
TWO PATHS
TWO PATHS
Sooner or later, each one of us will arrive at a point in our Christian life where the road forks, and we are forced to make a tough decision. God INTENTIONALLY brings us to that point, for our OWN DEVELOPMENT in Him.
The UNTHINKABLE happens-- with direct permission, if not at the COMMAND of God Himself.
Some other person, USUALLY A BROTHER OR SISTER in the Lord, does a TERRIBLY HURTFUL thing to us. It might be a false accusation of our morals, personal integrity, or our honesty, etc. Our reputation and ministry may be in serious jeopardy as a result of the attack. This is serious.
But of FAR MORE SERIOUS consequence,however, is the danger to the relationship between US and our GOD. We must WALK VERY CAREFULLY right now, for the situation is very delicate at this point.
Our SINGULAR PATH has suddenly DIVIDED, and we are forced to choose ONE PATH OR THE OTHER.
Both of the paths before us are SCRIPTURAL. We can go either of the two ways. But THE WAYS MIGHT NOT END UP AT THE SAME DESTINATION.
One path might cost you FAR MORE than you have already lost. It will probably be much harder to follow than the other path, and is MUCH MORE DANGEROUS.
The name of that path is: DAMAGE CONTROL. You would want to choose that path if your main desire is to regain your lost reputation, ministry, esteem, etc. AND IT IS A SCRIPTURAL PATH.
Matthew 18:15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear [thee, then] take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell [it] unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.
There is A REAL DANGER that this path might cost someone their salvation. Either yours or the other party, or BOTH. For, once you put this scriptural process into gear, it can become quite brutal in running its course. IF IT WORKS, if it does-- it rarely does-- you finally, painfully arrive at the point where YOU forgive the brother or sister. It was a painful, stressful route, BUT YOU FINALLY ARRIVED.
You arrived at the point of forgiving the offender. But DON'T KID YOURSELF-- THE RELATIONSHIP WILL NEVER BE THE SAME.
The OTHER PATHWAY, however, will lead you (and after all GOD IS DEALING WITH YOUR DEVELOPMENT IN HIM) much more rapidly to the point of FORGIVING the trespassor for what they have done, either intentionally or inadvertantly.
The path of FORGIVENESS is fully as scriptural as the path of DAMAGE CONTROL. It can be FAR LESS TRAUMATIC also.
Matthew 6:14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Colossians 3:13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also [do] ye.
NEVER FORGET that God HAD YOUR WELFARE in mind when He allowed, or caused, the terrible thing to happen to you. He is dealing PRIMARILY with YOU in the matter.
His concern for your growth in Him is greater than His concern for your reputation or possessions.
To FORGIVE is an ACT OF THE WILL (your will), whereby you absolve the other party of all debt to you.
Personal feelings and emotions CAN be over ruled when a matter of greater importance is at hand. In this case, it is.
Sooner or later, each one of us will arrive at a point in our Christian life where the road forks, and we are forced to make a tough decision. God INTENTIONALLY brings us to that point, for our OWN DEVELOPMENT in Him.
The UNTHINKABLE happens-- with direct permission, if not at the COMMAND of God Himself.
Some other person, USUALLY A BROTHER OR SISTER in the Lord, does a TERRIBLY HURTFUL thing to us. It might be a false accusation of our morals, personal integrity, or our honesty, etc. Our reputation and ministry may be in serious jeopardy as a result of the attack. This is serious.
But of FAR MORE SERIOUS consequence,however, is the danger to the relationship between US and our GOD. We must WALK VERY CAREFULLY right now, for the situation is very delicate at this point.
Our SINGULAR PATH has suddenly DIVIDED, and we are forced to choose ONE PATH OR THE OTHER.
Both of the paths before us are SCRIPTURAL. We can go either of the two ways. But THE WAYS MIGHT NOT END UP AT THE SAME DESTINATION.
One path might cost you FAR MORE than you have already lost. It will probably be much harder to follow than the other path, and is MUCH MORE DANGEROUS.
The name of that path is: DAMAGE CONTROL. You would want to choose that path if your main desire is to regain your lost reputation, ministry, esteem, etc. AND IT IS A SCRIPTURAL PATH.
Matthew 18:15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear [thee, then] take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell [it] unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.
There is A REAL DANGER that this path might cost someone their salvation. Either yours or the other party, or BOTH. For, once you put this scriptural process into gear, it can become quite brutal in running its course. IF IT WORKS, if it does-- it rarely does-- you finally, painfully arrive at the point where YOU forgive the brother or sister. It was a painful, stressful route, BUT YOU FINALLY ARRIVED.
You arrived at the point of forgiving the offender. But DON'T KID YOURSELF-- THE RELATIONSHIP WILL NEVER BE THE SAME.
The OTHER PATHWAY, however, will lead you (and after all GOD IS DEALING WITH YOUR DEVELOPMENT IN HIM) much more rapidly to the point of FORGIVING the trespassor for what they have done, either intentionally or inadvertantly.
The path of FORGIVENESS is fully as scriptural as the path of DAMAGE CONTROL. It can be FAR LESS TRAUMATIC also.
Matthew 6:14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Colossians 3:13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also [do] ye.
NEVER FORGET that God HAD YOUR WELFARE in mind when He allowed, or caused, the terrible thing to happen to you. He is dealing PRIMARILY with YOU in the matter.
His concern for your growth in Him is greater than His concern for your reputation or possessions.
To FORGIVE is an ACT OF THE WILL (your will), whereby you absolve the other party of all debt to you.
Personal feelings and emotions CAN be over ruled when a matter of greater importance is at hand. In this case, it is.
Friday, May 25, 2007
WHEN GOD LAUGHS
WHEN GOD LAUGHS
Last night I was at a prayer meeting where there was much concern about certain things which are being promoted on a world wide scale which are not favorable to the Christian way of life.
As different ones were expressing their concerns, my attention was drawn to the second Psalm. I was tempted to rise and expound from it, but the Spirit forbade me to do it. It seemed to be saying, "These people are happy when they are under a threat of supposed danger, and are ready to fight for their position."
I am as aware as anyone else is that there is a concerted effort being made to demolish and destroy all that we as Christians hold dear to our hearts. I also know that very few people are aware of where the fountain head of such activity is located. It is this group who are promoting such anti-Christian mentality as we see in the world today. Do you know the identity of this group?
The Apostle Paul must have known about them when he wrote to the Church at Thessalonica. He refers to them as "THEY." I Thessalonians 5:3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.
Another way of expressing it would be that when THEY believe that THEY have about reached their goal of taking over complete control of the politics, religion and finances of the world, some unexpected and unforeseen thing happens to tear down their play house. Listen to the Psalmist:
Psalms 2:1 Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? The Psalmist is asking why the nations, (families) and groups (associations) of people entertain empty (vain) thoughts about ruling the world. Alexander the Great had aspirations, as did Napoleon, Julius Caesar, and others like Hitler, Mussolini and Stalin. Look at verse 2:
Psalms 2:2 The kings (lit. nobles, great men) of the earth set themselves, and the rulers (controllers) take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, (this includes Christians and the Christian faith) [saying], (3) Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us.
I am sure that most of us are aware of the fact that the real hand behind this anti-Christian, anti-moral crusade is, for the most part, an unseen hand. Where did the infamous atheistic woman get the finances to go to the supreme court about prayer in the schools? Do you know? Who is paying for the propaganda in favor of an alternate life style that we have flung in our faces almost every day?
Who are THEY? What is THEIR purpose in promoting a break down of morals and Christianity around the world?
What is presently standing between them and their goal of complete control of the world? You guessed it! Jesus Christ and His Church.
So, naturally, THEY have launched an all-out campaign to break down the morals and faith of the Church of Jesus Christ. And, sometimes it seems they are succeeding in their efforts.
MOST OF THE CHRISTIANS BELIEVE THIS
You can see it in their faces-- in their frantic actions, their desperate calls for help in their efforts to stem the swelling tide of un-Godliness. They are constantly retreating and regrouping-- to no avail.
I've got news for them. It is an exercise in futility to spend time, effort and money in such activity.
Friends, THEY have more money than the Christians can ever accumulate. THEY have more time than we have. THEY have the resources of the fallen nature of humankind-- a never ending supply to call upon. THEY have more brains to call upon.
But THEY have no knowledge or understanding of God Almighty and what He has determined for the earth. He will have something to say about their sinister plot. Listen to Him:
Psalms 2:4 He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision.
There WILL COME AN END to His tolerance of their boastings and schemings.
Psalms 2:5 Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure.
It is my personal opinion that we are seeing the beginnings of the final show down-- the playing of the trump card by these people Paul referred to as "THEY." But mankind has NEVER been able to thwart God in what He has purposed to do.
Psalms 2:6 Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion.
Modern day Zion is within the Church of Jesus Christ.
Notice, the Psalmist quotes the Lord as saying that HE HAS SET his king--. It is already done-- we just don't see it yet.
Psalms 2:7 I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me,-- .
Friends, many years ago we experienced a wave of Worship and Praise sweep around the world. Little did we know what the outcome would be. We were simply lost in the ecstasy of what it was doing in OUR LIVES. Little did we dream that such Worship and Praise would produce what has happened since that time.
God has moved again and again in special ways among His people, and in the world generally, in response to the outpouring of thanksgiving from His people in those years gone by.
"THEY" are more frustrated today than at any time in their history.
Worship to God has been our weapon-- God's secret weapon-- to frustrate their efforts, until He destroys them and their plans.
Did Nimrod succeed in building the tower of Babel? No. Has anyone else succeeded in pulling God out of Heaven? No.
God has made a decree.
When God makes a decree--
IT WILL BE BROUGHT TO PASS.
Last night I was at a prayer meeting where there was much concern about certain things which are being promoted on a world wide scale which are not favorable to the Christian way of life.
As different ones were expressing their concerns, my attention was drawn to the second Psalm. I was tempted to rise and expound from it, but the Spirit forbade me to do it. It seemed to be saying, "These people are happy when they are under a threat of supposed danger, and are ready to fight for their position."
I am as aware as anyone else is that there is a concerted effort being made to demolish and destroy all that we as Christians hold dear to our hearts. I also know that very few people are aware of where the fountain head of such activity is located. It is this group who are promoting such anti-Christian mentality as we see in the world today. Do you know the identity of this group?
The Apostle Paul must have known about them when he wrote to the Church at Thessalonica. He refers to them as "THEY." I Thessalonians 5:3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.
Another way of expressing it would be that when THEY believe that THEY have about reached their goal of taking over complete control of the politics, religion and finances of the world, some unexpected and unforeseen thing happens to tear down their play house. Listen to the Psalmist:
Psalms 2:1 Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? The Psalmist is asking why the nations, (families) and groups (associations) of people entertain empty (vain) thoughts about ruling the world. Alexander the Great had aspirations, as did Napoleon, Julius Caesar, and others like Hitler, Mussolini and Stalin. Look at verse 2:
Psalms 2:2 The kings (lit. nobles, great men) of the earth set themselves, and the rulers (controllers) take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, (this includes Christians and the Christian faith) [saying], (3) Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us.
I am sure that most of us are aware of the fact that the real hand behind this anti-Christian, anti-moral crusade is, for the most part, an unseen hand. Where did the infamous atheistic woman get the finances to go to the supreme court about prayer in the schools? Do you know? Who is paying for the propaganda in favor of an alternate life style that we have flung in our faces almost every day?
Who are THEY? What is THEIR purpose in promoting a break down of morals and Christianity around the world?
What is presently standing between them and their goal of complete control of the world? You guessed it! Jesus Christ and His Church.
So, naturally, THEY have launched an all-out campaign to break down the morals and faith of the Church of Jesus Christ. And, sometimes it seems they are succeeding in their efforts.
MOST OF THE CHRISTIANS BELIEVE THIS
You can see it in their faces-- in their frantic actions, their desperate calls for help in their efforts to stem the swelling tide of un-Godliness. They are constantly retreating and regrouping-- to no avail.
I've got news for them. It is an exercise in futility to spend time, effort and money in such activity.
Friends, THEY have more money than the Christians can ever accumulate. THEY have more time than we have. THEY have the resources of the fallen nature of humankind-- a never ending supply to call upon. THEY have more brains to call upon.
But THEY have no knowledge or understanding of God Almighty and what He has determined for the earth. He will have something to say about their sinister plot. Listen to Him:
Psalms 2:4 He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision.
There WILL COME AN END to His tolerance of their boastings and schemings.
Psalms 2:5 Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure.
It is my personal opinion that we are seeing the beginnings of the final show down-- the playing of the trump card by these people Paul referred to as "THEY." But mankind has NEVER been able to thwart God in what He has purposed to do.
Psalms 2:6 Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion.
Modern day Zion is within the Church of Jesus Christ.
Notice, the Psalmist quotes the Lord as saying that HE HAS SET his king--. It is already done-- we just don't see it yet.
Psalms 2:7 I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me,-- .
Friends, many years ago we experienced a wave of Worship and Praise sweep around the world. Little did we know what the outcome would be. We were simply lost in the ecstasy of what it was doing in OUR LIVES. Little did we dream that such Worship and Praise would produce what has happened since that time.
God has moved again and again in special ways among His people, and in the world generally, in response to the outpouring of thanksgiving from His people in those years gone by.
"THEY" are more frustrated today than at any time in their history.
Worship to God has been our weapon-- God's secret weapon-- to frustrate their efforts, until He destroys them and their plans.
Did Nimrod succeed in building the tower of Babel? No. Has anyone else succeeded in pulling God out of Heaven? No.
God has made a decree.
When God makes a decree--
IT WILL BE BROUGHT TO PASS.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
I WILL BLESS YOU
FROM THIS DAY AND UPWARD
An interesting story lies hidden within the verses of the writings of Haggai, one of the Prophets that the Lord raised up to encourage the builders who had accompanied Ezra when he led several thousand Jews back to Jerusalem to rebuild the walls and the Temple.
It was a daunting task, and there was much opposition to what they were attempting to do. Discouragement reached out a slimy hand to hinder the progress. The Lord countered with the prophecies of Haggai and Zechariah.
Those prophecies, if we listen to them, can serve to encourage any one of us today who have a tendency to lose the vision of what the Lord is wanting done with, and in, and through us.
The date is: (Hag 1:15) In the four and twentieth day of the sixth month, in the second year of Darius the king.
The Lord is chiding the people for their discouragement, and telling them why He has sent a drought and famine upon the land.
Hag 1:9 Ye looked for much, and, lo, it came to little; and when ye brought it home, I did blow upon it. Why? saith the LORD of hosts. Because of mine house that is waste, and ye run every man unto his own house.
Hag 1:10 Therefore the heaven over you is stayed from dew, and the earth is stayed from her fruit.
Hag 1:11 And I called for a drought upon the land, and upon the mountains, and upon the corn, and upon the new wine, and upon the oil, and upon that which the ground bringeth forth, and upon men, and upon cattle, and upon all the labor of the hands.
How thankful we can be that the leaders and the people hearkened to the voice of the Prophets.
Hag 1:12 Then Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest, with all the remnant of the people, OBEYED THE VOICE OF THE LORD THEIR GOD, and the words of Haggai the prophet, as the LORD their God had sent him, and the people did fear before the LORD.
Listen to this next verse, for it tells us how anxious the Lord is for His people to obey the voice of those whom He sends into our midst to admonish us. As soon as they got started again on the work, God reciprocated with words of courage.
(Hag 1:13) Then spoke Haggai the LORD's messenger in the LORD's message unto the people, saying, I AM WITH YOU, saith the LORD.
(Hag 1:14) And the LORD stirred up the spirit of Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the spirit of Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest, and the spirit of all the remnant of the people; and they came and did work in the house of the LORD of hosts, their God,
Exactly three months later, when the foundation of the House of the Lord was completed, the Prophet again delivered a message from Heaven to the people and the leaders.
(Hag 2:18) CONSIDER NOW FROM THIS DAY AND UPWARD, from the four and twentieth day of the ninth month, even from the day that the foundation of the LORD's temple was laid, consider it.
(Hag 2:19) Is the seed yet in the barn? yea, as yet the vine, and the fig tree, and the pomegranate, and the olive tree, hath not brought forth: FROM THIS DAY WILL I BLESS YOU.
The refugees from Babylon had made a small step toward the Will of the Lord. The Lord was making a GIANT STEP toward them. He will do the same for us today when we make a move toward a lifestyle that is closer to Him and His Will for our lives.
2Ch 30:9) For if ye turn again unto the LORD, your brethren and your children shall find compassion before them that lead them captive, so that they shall come again into this land: for the LORD your God is gracious and merciful, and will not turn away his face from you, if ye return unto him.
Almost always, a returning to God will bring about a change in our lifestyle, as well as a change in our relationship to the House of God, wherever that may be.
Without a regular meeting together with other believers, we will tend to flounder in our walk with God. We need the encouragement that comes from one to another when we worship together.
And we must shoulder our responsibilities for the upkeep of the House of Worship. It is an integral part of our walk with the Lord.
"--From this day and upward--- I will bless you."
(2Ch 31:5) And as soon as the commandment came abroad, the children of Israel brought in abundance the firstfruits of corn, wine, and oil, and honey, and of all the increase of the field; and the tithe of all things brought they in abundantly.
(2Ch 31:6) And concerning the children of Israel and Judah, that dwelt in the cities of Judah, they also brought in the tithe of oxen and sheep, and the tithe of holy things which were consecrated unto the LORD their God, and laid them by heaps.
An interesting story lies hidden within the verses of the writings of Haggai, one of the Prophets that the Lord raised up to encourage the builders who had accompanied Ezra when he led several thousand Jews back to Jerusalem to rebuild the walls and the Temple.
It was a daunting task, and there was much opposition to what they were attempting to do. Discouragement reached out a slimy hand to hinder the progress. The Lord countered with the prophecies of Haggai and Zechariah.
Those prophecies, if we listen to them, can serve to encourage any one of us today who have a tendency to lose the vision of what the Lord is wanting done with, and in, and through us.
The date is: (Hag 1:15) In the four and twentieth day of the sixth month, in the second year of Darius the king.
The Lord is chiding the people for their discouragement, and telling them why He has sent a drought and famine upon the land.
Hag 1:9 Ye looked for much, and, lo, it came to little; and when ye brought it home, I did blow upon it. Why? saith the LORD of hosts. Because of mine house that is waste, and ye run every man unto his own house.
Hag 1:10 Therefore the heaven over you is stayed from dew, and the earth is stayed from her fruit.
Hag 1:11 And I called for a drought upon the land, and upon the mountains, and upon the corn, and upon the new wine, and upon the oil, and upon that which the ground bringeth forth, and upon men, and upon cattle, and upon all the labor of the hands.
How thankful we can be that the leaders and the people hearkened to the voice of the Prophets.
Hag 1:12 Then Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest, with all the remnant of the people, OBEYED THE VOICE OF THE LORD THEIR GOD, and the words of Haggai the prophet, as the LORD their God had sent him, and the people did fear before the LORD.
Listen to this next verse, for it tells us how anxious the Lord is for His people to obey the voice of those whom He sends into our midst to admonish us. As soon as they got started again on the work, God reciprocated with words of courage.
(Hag 1:13) Then spoke Haggai the LORD's messenger in the LORD's message unto the people, saying, I AM WITH YOU, saith the LORD.
(Hag 1:14) And the LORD stirred up the spirit of Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the spirit of Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest, and the spirit of all the remnant of the people; and they came and did work in the house of the LORD of hosts, their God,
Exactly three months later, when the foundation of the House of the Lord was completed, the Prophet again delivered a message from Heaven to the people and the leaders.
(Hag 2:18) CONSIDER NOW FROM THIS DAY AND UPWARD, from the four and twentieth day of the ninth month, even from the day that the foundation of the LORD's temple was laid, consider it.
(Hag 2:19) Is the seed yet in the barn? yea, as yet the vine, and the fig tree, and the pomegranate, and the olive tree, hath not brought forth: FROM THIS DAY WILL I BLESS YOU.
The refugees from Babylon had made a small step toward the Will of the Lord. The Lord was making a GIANT STEP toward them. He will do the same for us today when we make a move toward a lifestyle that is closer to Him and His Will for our lives.
2Ch 30:9) For if ye turn again unto the LORD, your brethren and your children shall find compassion before them that lead them captive, so that they shall come again into this land: for the LORD your God is gracious and merciful, and will not turn away his face from you, if ye return unto him.
Almost always, a returning to God will bring about a change in our lifestyle, as well as a change in our relationship to the House of God, wherever that may be.
Without a regular meeting together with other believers, we will tend to flounder in our walk with God. We need the encouragement that comes from one to another when we worship together.
And we must shoulder our responsibilities for the upkeep of the House of Worship. It is an integral part of our walk with the Lord.
"--From this day and upward--- I will bless you."
(2Ch 31:5) And as soon as the commandment came abroad, the children of Israel brought in abundance the firstfruits of corn, wine, and oil, and honey, and of all the increase of the field; and the tithe of all things brought they in abundantly.
(2Ch 31:6) And concerning the children of Israel and Judah, that dwelt in the cities of Judah, they also brought in the tithe of oxen and sheep, and the tithe of holy things which were consecrated unto the LORD their God, and laid them by heaps.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
THE LAST BATTLE
ARMAGEDDON
What can we know about the famous "Battle of Armageddon" which we believe to be in the not-too-distant future?
I didn't ask what MEN are saying about the event, for MOST of the interpreters are using the standard textbooks of interpretation. And, most of them are wrong, for they are based upon faulty interpretations of other scriptures which have a bearing on the subject.
What can we learn FROM THE WORD about God's plan for the WORLD. How will the Lord accomplish what He has determined to do?
I BELIEVE THAT MY OPINION IS AS GOOD AS THAT OF THE NEXT PERSON.
The term "ARMAGEDDON" is used once in the whole Bible. It is a combination of two Hebrew words-- Har, meaning a range of hills (sometimes used symbolically), and Megiddown, meaning a RENDEZVOUS, or an appointed place of meeting.
It appears that it will be a "SHOW DOWN" similar to what Elijah had with the prophets and priests of Baal at Carmel.
Notice HOW GOD GETS THE KINGS OF THE EARTH AND THE WORLD TO MEET WITH HIS OVERCOMERS.
GOD HAS DETERMINED THE TIME
1) GOD DRIES UP THE RIVER EUPHRATES. Revelation 16:12 And the SIXTH ANGEL poured out his vial upon the GREAT RIVER EUPHRATES; AND THE WATER THEREOF WAS DRIED UP, that THE WAY OF THE KINGS OF THE EAST MIGHT BE PREPARED.
IT IS MY OPINION: The River Euphrates is a symbolic term for the PREDOMINANT RELIGION of the area. It is now world wide in scope. The "god" that they hail is NOT the God whom we serve. That religion is A PART of the "ANTICHRIST SYSTEM". IT WILL COME DOWN!
WHAT METHOD WILL GOD USE to bring down all false religions and man-made authorities? The Scripture gives us a clue.
Who are the KINGS OF THE EAST, whose "way is prepared" for them?
HERE IS WHAT I BELIEVE:
The KINGS OF THE EAST is a symbolic term for GOD'S OVERCOMERS, who are reserved in the WOMB OF THE DENOMINATIONAL SYSTEM until the time appointed for their unveiling (manifestation) to the people of the earth.
GOD HAS DETERMINED THE METHOD HE WILL USE TO ACCOMPLISH HIS PURPOSES
2) GOD COMMANDS THE SERVICES OF UNCLEAN SPIRITS TO DECEIVE AND DRAW THE POLITICAL AND RELIGIOUS LEADERS OF THE EARTH AND THE WHOLE WORLD INTO CONFRONTATION WITH HIMSELF. Revelation 16:13-14 And I saw three UNCLEAN SPIRITS LIKE FROGS [come] out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. For they are the SPIRITS OF DEVILS, WORKING MIRACLES, [which] go forth unto the KINGS OF THE EARTH AND OF THE WHOLE WORLD, to GATHER THEM TO THE BATTLE OF THAT GREAT DAY OF GOD ALMIGHTY.
Is there a significance in the terms "EARTH AND THE WHOLE WORLD" as they are used here? I believe so. It represents two segments of society-- religious and political.
GOD HAS DETERMINED THE PLACE.
It is PROBABLY NOT A GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION. It will MORE LIKELY BE A WORLD-WIDE RENDEZVOUS between the KINGS (governments and politico-religious powers) of the EARTH, and the Spirit of God working in and through the class of people whom God calls the OVERCOMERS.
Revelation 16:16 And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon.
WHERE WILL ARMAGEDDON TAKE PLACE?
Probably NOT IN THE VALLEY OF MEGIDDO, which did see many battles take place within its confines in Old Testament times. That piece of real estate does not need a SPIRITUALLY-interpreted name such as is given here-- Har-Mageddon.
IT IS A GOD-APPOINTED MEETING PLACE (Rendezvous).
On one side are the KINGS OF THE EARTH AND OF THE WHOLE WORLD.
On the other side is the SPIRIT OF GOD THROUGH HIS ANOINTED OVERCOMERS (THE KINGS OF THE EAST).
IT WILL BE A FIGHT-TO-THE-FINISH BATTLE.
The KINGS OF THE EARTH AND OF THE WHOLE WORLD will have MILITARY, POLITICAL, ECONOMIC AND ECCLESIASTIC power at their disposal. They will not hesitate to use it. But military might and political power are no threat to the SPIRIT OF GOD.
The OVERCOMERS will have ONLY the SPIRIT OF GOD with which to do battle. BUT THAT WILL BE SUFFICIENT! THE "BATTLE" WILL BE ONE-SIDED FROM THE START
Zechariah 4:6 Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This [is] the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might (Military strength), nor by power (Authority of Man), but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.
ALL MILITARY, POLITICAL AND RELIGIOUS SYSTEMS WILL BE NEUTRALIZED by the SPIRIT OF GOD THROUGH HIS OVERCOMERS. These present systems are all energized by the influence of satan, who is the force behind all war, and desire for rulership.
THE OVERCOMERS (out of the religious systems) WILL REMAIN ON THE FIELD WHEN THE BATTLE IS OVER. HUMANITY WILL BE SET FREE FROM THE INFLUENCE OF SATAN. The desire to dominate and make war will no longer be an influence of deception over mankind.
THE OVERCOMERS (out of the religious systems) ARE THE STONE CUT OUT OF THE MOUNTAIN. Dan 2:45
THE OVERCOMERS (out of the religious systems) ARE THE ANGEL WITH THE CHAIN TO BIND SATAN (CANCEL AND DESTROY HIS INFLUENCE OVER MANKIND) AND CAST HIM INTO THE BOTTOMLESS PIT. See Rev 20:2
THE RESULT OF SATAN BEING BOUND (DISABLED)? One whole generation of humanity will be snatched from the PRINCE OF THE POWER OF THE AIR, (when his influence over mankind is canceled) and will claim Jesus Christ as KING.
And, given the present population explosion-- that will be a very large HARVEST that is REAPED for God.
Revelation 14:16 And he that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped.
God forces evil, unclean spirits to gather His enemies to Armageddon. Then, God "cleans house" through His Anointed Overcomers. Jesus prophesied it when He "cleansed the temple."
I would love to be around when it happens.
What can we know about the famous "Battle of Armageddon" which we believe to be in the not-too-distant future?
I didn't ask what MEN are saying about the event, for MOST of the interpreters are using the standard textbooks of interpretation. And, most of them are wrong, for they are based upon faulty interpretations of other scriptures which have a bearing on the subject.
What can we learn FROM THE WORD about God's plan for the WORLD. How will the Lord accomplish what He has determined to do?
I BELIEVE THAT MY OPINION IS AS GOOD AS THAT OF THE NEXT PERSON.
The term "ARMAGEDDON" is used once in the whole Bible. It is a combination of two Hebrew words-- Har, meaning a range of hills (sometimes used symbolically), and Megiddown, meaning a RENDEZVOUS, or an appointed place of meeting.
It appears that it will be a "SHOW DOWN" similar to what Elijah had with the prophets and priests of Baal at Carmel.
Notice HOW GOD GETS THE KINGS OF THE EARTH AND THE WORLD TO MEET WITH HIS OVERCOMERS.
GOD HAS DETERMINED THE TIME
1) GOD DRIES UP THE RIVER EUPHRATES. Revelation 16:12 And the SIXTH ANGEL poured out his vial upon the GREAT RIVER EUPHRATES; AND THE WATER THEREOF WAS DRIED UP, that THE WAY OF THE KINGS OF THE EAST MIGHT BE PREPARED.
IT IS MY OPINION: The River Euphrates is a symbolic term for the PREDOMINANT RELIGION of the area. It is now world wide in scope. The "god" that they hail is NOT the God whom we serve. That religion is A PART of the "ANTICHRIST SYSTEM". IT WILL COME DOWN!
WHAT METHOD WILL GOD USE to bring down all false religions and man-made authorities? The Scripture gives us a clue.
Who are the KINGS OF THE EAST, whose "way is prepared" for them?
HERE IS WHAT I BELIEVE:
The KINGS OF THE EAST is a symbolic term for GOD'S OVERCOMERS, who are reserved in the WOMB OF THE DENOMINATIONAL SYSTEM until the time appointed for their unveiling (manifestation) to the people of the earth.
GOD HAS DETERMINED THE METHOD HE WILL USE TO ACCOMPLISH HIS PURPOSES
2) GOD COMMANDS THE SERVICES OF UNCLEAN SPIRITS TO DECEIVE AND DRAW THE POLITICAL AND RELIGIOUS LEADERS OF THE EARTH AND THE WHOLE WORLD INTO CONFRONTATION WITH HIMSELF. Revelation 16:13-14 And I saw three UNCLEAN SPIRITS LIKE FROGS [come] out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. For they are the SPIRITS OF DEVILS, WORKING MIRACLES, [which] go forth unto the KINGS OF THE EARTH AND OF THE WHOLE WORLD, to GATHER THEM TO THE BATTLE OF THAT GREAT DAY OF GOD ALMIGHTY.
Is there a significance in the terms "EARTH AND THE WHOLE WORLD" as they are used here? I believe so. It represents two segments of society-- religious and political.
GOD HAS DETERMINED THE PLACE.
It is PROBABLY NOT A GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION. It will MORE LIKELY BE A WORLD-WIDE RENDEZVOUS between the KINGS (governments and politico-religious powers) of the EARTH, and the Spirit of God working in and through the class of people whom God calls the OVERCOMERS.
Revelation 16:16 And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon.
WHERE WILL ARMAGEDDON TAKE PLACE?
Probably NOT IN THE VALLEY OF MEGIDDO, which did see many battles take place within its confines in Old Testament times. That piece of real estate does not need a SPIRITUALLY-interpreted name such as is given here-- Har-Mageddon.
IT IS A GOD-APPOINTED MEETING PLACE (Rendezvous).
On one side are the KINGS OF THE EARTH AND OF THE WHOLE WORLD.
On the other side is the SPIRIT OF GOD THROUGH HIS ANOINTED OVERCOMERS (THE KINGS OF THE EAST).
IT WILL BE A FIGHT-TO-THE-FINISH BATTLE.
The KINGS OF THE EARTH AND OF THE WHOLE WORLD will have MILITARY, POLITICAL, ECONOMIC AND ECCLESIASTIC power at their disposal. They will not hesitate to use it. But military might and political power are no threat to the SPIRIT OF GOD.
The OVERCOMERS will have ONLY the SPIRIT OF GOD with which to do battle. BUT THAT WILL BE SUFFICIENT! THE "BATTLE" WILL BE ONE-SIDED FROM THE START
Zechariah 4:6 Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This [is] the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might (Military strength), nor by power (Authority of Man), but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.
ALL MILITARY, POLITICAL AND RELIGIOUS SYSTEMS WILL BE NEUTRALIZED by the SPIRIT OF GOD THROUGH HIS OVERCOMERS. These present systems are all energized by the influence of satan, who is the force behind all war, and desire for rulership.
THE OVERCOMERS (out of the religious systems) WILL REMAIN ON THE FIELD WHEN THE BATTLE IS OVER. HUMANITY WILL BE SET FREE FROM THE INFLUENCE OF SATAN. The desire to dominate and make war will no longer be an influence of deception over mankind.
THE OVERCOMERS (out of the religious systems) ARE THE STONE CUT OUT OF THE MOUNTAIN. Dan 2:45
THE OVERCOMERS (out of the religious systems) ARE THE ANGEL WITH THE CHAIN TO BIND SATAN (CANCEL AND DESTROY HIS INFLUENCE OVER MANKIND) AND CAST HIM INTO THE BOTTOMLESS PIT. See Rev 20:2
THE RESULT OF SATAN BEING BOUND (DISABLED)? One whole generation of humanity will be snatched from the PRINCE OF THE POWER OF THE AIR, (when his influence over mankind is canceled) and will claim Jesus Christ as KING.
And, given the present population explosion-- that will be a very large HARVEST that is REAPED for God.
Revelation 14:16 And he that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped.
God forces evil, unclean spirits to gather His enemies to Armageddon. Then, God "cleans house" through His Anointed Overcomers. Jesus prophesied it when He "cleansed the temple."
I would love to be around when it happens.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
WHAT IS TRUTH?
WHAT IS TRUTH?
Pilate asked Jesus this question after Jesus had told 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. Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault [at all].
A few years ago, we would have called Pilate's question "the 64 dollar question". You youngsters might not know what that means. It means, the ULTIMATE question.
Almost everyone who has a doctrine to promote, puts great emphasis on "the truth" when they expound what they think the scriptures are saying.
I made a study one time, to see if I could find, from the Word, what the TRUTH is.
I was very surprised to learn that God does not, necessarily, endorse one person's special doctrine over the other.
As a matter of fact, Jesus was NOT referring to doctrinal beliefs when He used the word "TRUTH". NOT AT ALL!
TRUTH, as Jesus used the word in many places, is referring to what is REAL, and ENDURING, as opposed to that which is UNREAL and TEMPORARY.
There are TWO KINGDOMS in the earth today. They are TRUTH vs. ERROR; LIGHT vs. DARKNESS; GOOD vs. EVIL; LOVE vs. HATE; GOD vs. SATAN, etc.
Jesus said, "I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH---."
God has promised to shake mightily the earth. When the shaking is finished, ONE KINGDOM will remain. Do you know which one? Are you in that Kingdom?
Many so-called "doctrines of truth" will also go by the way of the shaking. That is because they were honeycombed with error, or were used with ulterior motives. There ARE people who "hold the truth in unrighteousness". They, and their teachings, as well as those who gave them heed, will perish in the shaking.
There will, however, come a time when God's people will all "SPEAK THE SAME THING" as it were, for we read it in Zephaniah 3:9 For then will I turn to the people a PURE LANGUAGE, that they may all call upon the name of the LORD, to serve him WITH ONE CONSENT.
Think of it-- A PURE LANGUAGE.
Pilate asked Jesus this question after Jesus had told 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. Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault [at all].
A few years ago, we would have called Pilate's question "the 64 dollar question". You youngsters might not know what that means. It means, the ULTIMATE question.
Almost everyone who has a doctrine to promote, puts great emphasis on "the truth" when they expound what they think the scriptures are saying.
I made a study one time, to see if I could find, from the Word, what the TRUTH is.
I was very surprised to learn that God does not, necessarily, endorse one person's special doctrine over the other.
As a matter of fact, Jesus was NOT referring to doctrinal beliefs when He used the word "TRUTH". NOT AT ALL!
TRUTH, as Jesus used the word in many places, is referring to what is REAL, and ENDURING, as opposed to that which is UNREAL and TEMPORARY.
There are TWO KINGDOMS in the earth today. They are TRUTH vs. ERROR; LIGHT vs. DARKNESS; GOOD vs. EVIL; LOVE vs. HATE; GOD vs. SATAN, etc.
Jesus said, "I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH---."
God has promised to shake mightily the earth. When the shaking is finished, ONE KINGDOM will remain. Do you know which one? Are you in that Kingdom?
Many so-called "doctrines of truth" will also go by the way of the shaking. That is because they were honeycombed with error, or were used with ulterior motives. There ARE people who "hold the truth in unrighteousness". They, and their teachings, as well as those who gave them heed, will perish in the shaking.
There will, however, come a time when God's people will all "SPEAK THE SAME THING" as it were, for we read it in Zephaniah 3:9 For then will I turn to the people a PURE LANGUAGE, that they may all call upon the name of the LORD, to serve him WITH ONE CONSENT.
Think of it-- A PURE LANGUAGE.
Monday, May 21, 2007
TWO CITIES
TWO CITIES
In Scripture there are two cities which were used as types of
something else which was to appear in the latter times.
One city was Babylon, the beautiful, strong city which came to
temporary power about 600 years before Jesus. It came to its end when
its message was given. The World System, which it was a type of, was
passed down, in a series of steps, through Medo-Persia, Greece and
Rome, finally ending in the ten-part extension of itself, which is with
us yet today. It is the "Gold System" and is revealed in all forms of
commerce and politics, both secular and religious. The "System" is a
thing of beauty, and a thing of power. "Principal and Interest" are
two of the more readily recognizable apects of it in modern times.
The other city was Jerusalem, which came to the acme of its proph-
etic existance during the "reign of peace" of Solomon, who, being a man
of peace, was permitted to build the Temple. The City and the Temple
were both types of the Church and the Body of Christ.
The city was destroyed. The Temple was destroyed. But what they
represented lives on to this present hour, and shall never come to an
end. It is the "Stone hewn out of the Mountain" that is destined to
strike "Babylon" in the "feet" and utterly destroy it, just as the
ancient city was destroyed, never to rise again.
Friends, the CHURCH will TRIUMPH over its Babylonish enemy.
We are told to "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem (the Church)." Psalms 122:6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper
that love thee. (The city that lieth foursquare)
I Timothy 2:1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all,
supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made
for all men; For kings, and [for] all that are in authority; that WE
MAY LEAD A QUIET AND PEACEABLE LIFE IN ALL GODLINESS AND HONESTY.
In Scripture there are two cities which were used as types of
something else which was to appear in the latter times.
One city was Babylon, the beautiful, strong city which came to
temporary power about 600 years before Jesus. It came to its end when
its message was given. The World System, which it was a type of, was
passed down, in a series of steps, through Medo-Persia, Greece and
Rome, finally ending in the ten-part extension of itself, which is with
us yet today. It is the "Gold System" and is revealed in all forms of
commerce and politics, both secular and religious. The "System" is a
thing of beauty, and a thing of power. "Principal and Interest" are
two of the more readily recognizable apects of it in modern times.
The other city was Jerusalem, which came to the acme of its proph-
etic existance during the "reign of peace" of Solomon, who, being a man
of peace, was permitted to build the Temple. The City and the Temple
were both types of the Church and the Body of Christ.
The city was destroyed. The Temple was destroyed. But what they
represented lives on to this present hour, and shall never come to an
end. It is the "Stone hewn out of the Mountain" that is destined to
strike "Babylon" in the "feet" and utterly destroy it, just as the
ancient city was destroyed, never to rise again.
Friends, the CHURCH will TRIUMPH over its Babylonish enemy.
We are told to "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem (the Church)." Psalms 122:6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper
that love thee. (The city that lieth foursquare)
I Timothy 2:1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all,
supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made
for all men; For kings, and [for] all that are in authority; that WE
MAY LEAD A QUIET AND PEACEABLE LIFE IN ALL GODLINESS AND HONESTY.
WASHED
WASHED
A few years ago, I was called upon to conduct the funeral service of a man whom I had known for many years, but had not manifested much of a love for Jesus.
There were many relatives, and in gathering with them prior to the service, I was shown a quilt which had been made during the great depression. No one had a job, so they passed the winter days in a constructive project. Sometimes two or more families shared a house in order to live. Times were tough.
Several family members and "in-laws" had each made a block for the quilt. This man had "written" on his block with stitching: Revelation 1:5-- Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood.
Revival fires had burned in the area at that time also, and this man had loved Jesus fervently then, even though his experience had grown cold later.
The Scripture was my "cue" for the service, and I was able to point out to the mixed group how that Jesus had initiated any relationship which had been, or was presently, or would ever be. His Love prompted Him to seek and draw us to Himself. It was His Blood that was used as an antidote for our sins. He did the washing.
I was also able to point out to the unsaved ones that Jesus was looking for them as much as He had been looking for their dad, grandfather, uncle, etc., and He would wash them with His blood also.
--to him [be] glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
The message is the same to any one reading this. Jesus loves you, and is wanting your full surrender to Him. He will not scold you. He will not berate you.
Don't let past failures scare you away. He already knows all about them. He knows it ALL--even that which you have successfully hidden from the eyes of other men and women. Nothing is hidden from Him.
Yet, His love is extended to you right now, if you will surrender your life to Him.
He will begin to guide you back from failure and misery into a close relationship with Himself again.
Call on the name of JESUS. He is waiting for the call. He WANTS to help you. HE UPBRAIDETH NOT!
A few years ago, I was called upon to conduct the funeral service of a man whom I had known for many years, but had not manifested much of a love for Jesus.
There were many relatives, and in gathering with them prior to the service, I was shown a quilt which had been made during the great depression. No one had a job, so they passed the winter days in a constructive project. Sometimes two or more families shared a house in order to live. Times were tough.
Several family members and "in-laws" had each made a block for the quilt. This man had "written" on his block with stitching: Revelation 1:5-- Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood.
Revival fires had burned in the area at that time also, and this man had loved Jesus fervently then, even though his experience had grown cold later.
The Scripture was my "cue" for the service, and I was able to point out to the mixed group how that Jesus had initiated any relationship which had been, or was presently, or would ever be. His Love prompted Him to seek and draw us to Himself. It was His Blood that was used as an antidote for our sins. He did the washing.
I was also able to point out to the unsaved ones that Jesus was looking for them as much as He had been looking for their dad, grandfather, uncle, etc., and He would wash them with His blood also.
--to him [be] glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
The message is the same to any one reading this. Jesus loves you, and is wanting your full surrender to Him. He will not scold you. He will not berate you.
Don't let past failures scare you away. He already knows all about them. He knows it ALL--even that which you have successfully hidden from the eyes of other men and women. Nothing is hidden from Him.
Yet, His love is extended to you right now, if you will surrender your life to Him.
He will begin to guide you back from failure and misery into a close relationship with Himself again.
Call on the name of JESUS. He is waiting for the call. He WANTS to help you. HE UPBRAIDETH NOT!
Saturday, May 19, 2007
IT WAS GOOD
IT WAS GOOD
Genesis 1:4 And God saw the light, that [it was] good: and God divided the light from the darkness.
Genesis 1:10 And God called the dry [land] Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that [it was] good.
Genesis 1:12 And the earth brought forth grass, [and] herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed [was] in itself, after his kind: and God saw that [it was] good.
Genesis 1:18 And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that [it was] good.
Genesis 1:25 And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that [it was] good.
Genesis 1:31 And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, [it was] very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
Isaiah 43:7 [Even] every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.
Isaiah 45:12 I have made the earth, and created man upon it: I, [even] my hands, have stretched out the heavens, and all their host have I commanded.
Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Ephesians 4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
Colossians 3:10 And have put on the new [man], which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:
Genesis 1:4 And God saw the light, that [it was] good: and God divided the light from the darkness.
Genesis 1:10 And God called the dry [land] Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that [it was] good.
Genesis 1:12 And the earth brought forth grass, [and] herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed [was] in itself, after his kind: and God saw that [it was] good.
Genesis 1:18 And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that [it was] good.
Genesis 1:25 And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that [it was] good.
Genesis 1:31 And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, [it was] very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
Isaiah 43:7 [Even] every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.
Isaiah 45:12 I have made the earth, and created man upon it: I, [even] my hands, have stretched out the heavens, and all their host have I commanded.
Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Ephesians 4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
Colossians 3:10 And have put on the new [man], which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:
TRUTH
SPIRIT AND TRUTH
Jesus told the woman at the well that the time had come for people to worship in SPIRIT and TRUTH. 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.
Pilate asked a powerful question when Jesus said, "Everyone that is of the truth heareth my voice." Jn 18.37 Pilate said, "What is truth?"
In our day, Truth has come to mean whatever portion of Scripture we have chosen to rally around and proclaim. But the term "Truth" has always meant more than an interpretation of Scripture.
John wrote-- John 1:17 For the law was given by Moses, [but] grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. Here, Truth is contrasted to the Law of Moses.
Paul drew the same contrast between the Spirit and the law of Moses, which he called the "letter". Romans 2:29 But he [is] a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision [is that] of the heart, in the spirit, [and] not in the letter; whose praise [is] not of men, but of God. Romans 7:6 But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not [in] the oldness of the letter.
Folks today who refer to the Bible as the "letter" are not using the term correctly, for Jesus said,-- John 6:63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, [they] are spirit, and [they] are life.
Jesus defined truth this way: John 14:6 --, I am the way, the truth, and the life:--
John 8:32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
Doctrines from the Bible may be true, but they do not qualify to be called "Truth" in the sense that it is used in the Bible.
Jesus defined the Spirit of Truth as being Himself.
John 14:17 [Even] the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
John 15:26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, [even] the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:
Jesus is more than a doctrine or a compilation of doctrines.
Paul contrasts Truth with unrighteousness: Romans 2:8 But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath,
Again, he contrasts Truth with Iniquity: I Corinthians 13:6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
Truth, then, consists of a manner of life, or characteristics of our lives. We live Truth, or we live Unrighteousness. We live Truth, or we live Iniquity.
Our lives, or lifestyles are spoken of as being our "song" in Revelation 14:3. And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but--
Living for, and satisfying the desires of our flesh constitutes changing Truth into a lie. Right living is the essence of Truth. We live in Truth. We worship in Truth.
Romans 1:25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator,--
Jesus told the woman at the well that the time had come for people to worship in SPIRIT and TRUTH. 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.
Pilate asked a powerful question when Jesus said, "Everyone that is of the truth heareth my voice." Jn 18.37 Pilate said, "What is truth?"
In our day, Truth has come to mean whatever portion of Scripture we have chosen to rally around and proclaim. But the term "Truth" has always meant more than an interpretation of Scripture.
John wrote-- John 1:17 For the law was given by Moses, [but] grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. Here, Truth is contrasted to the Law of Moses.
Paul drew the same contrast between the Spirit and the law of Moses, which he called the "letter". Romans 2:29 But he [is] a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision [is that] of the heart, in the spirit, [and] not in the letter; whose praise [is] not of men, but of God. Romans 7:6 But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not [in] the oldness of the letter.
Folks today who refer to the Bible as the "letter" are not using the term correctly, for Jesus said,-- John 6:63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, [they] are spirit, and [they] are life.
Jesus defined truth this way: John 14:6 --, I am the way, the truth, and the life:--
John 8:32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
Doctrines from the Bible may be true, but they do not qualify to be called "Truth" in the sense that it is used in the Bible.
Jesus defined the Spirit of Truth as being Himself.
John 14:17 [Even] the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
John 15:26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, [even] the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:
Jesus is more than a doctrine or a compilation of doctrines.
Paul contrasts Truth with unrighteousness: Romans 2:8 But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath,
Again, he contrasts Truth with Iniquity: I Corinthians 13:6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
Truth, then, consists of a manner of life, or characteristics of our lives. We live Truth, or we live Unrighteousness. We live Truth, or we live Iniquity.
Our lives, or lifestyles are spoken of as being our "song" in Revelation 14:3. And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but--
Living for, and satisfying the desires of our flesh constitutes changing Truth into a lie. Right living is the essence of Truth. We live in Truth. We worship in Truth.
Romans 1:25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator,--
Friday, May 18, 2007
TOUCHING JESUS
TOUCHING JESUS
"For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment,
I shall be whole." We have no record of anyone being turned away by
Jesus when they came to Him for help except the man who wanted Him to
make his brother divide the inheritance with him.
Everywhere Jesus went, people were brought to him for a touch, and as many as touched him were made whole.
He touched little children, and we are not told how their lives were affected by His touch. Can't help but wonder.
"And Jesus put forth [his] hand, and touched him, saying, I
will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed.
"Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith
be it unto you.
"And he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and ministered unto them.
"And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare [him]
stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.
"And Jesus answered and said, Suffer ye thus far. And he touched his ear, and healed him.
"For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with
the feeling of our infirmities;
Blinded eyes, broken lives, torments, fears, disappointments.
What do you have that Jesus can touch? Call on Him now. You will not be turned away, but He will help you.
"For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment,
I shall be whole." We have no record of anyone being turned away by
Jesus when they came to Him for help except the man who wanted Him to
make his brother divide the inheritance with him.
Everywhere Jesus went, people were brought to him for a touch, and as many as touched him were made whole.
He touched little children, and we are not told how their lives were affected by His touch. Can't help but wonder.
"And Jesus put forth [his] hand, and touched him, saying, I
will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed.
"Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith
be it unto you.
"And he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and ministered unto them.
"And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare [him]
stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.
"And Jesus answered and said, Suffer ye thus far. And he touched his ear, and healed him.
"For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with
the feeling of our infirmities;
Blinded eyes, broken lives, torments, fears, disappointments.
What do you have that Jesus can touch? Call on Him now. You will not be turned away, but He will help you.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
JEHOVAH-- SAVIOUR
JEHOVAH--SAVIOUR
The last few times we have been looking at the revelatory Names by which God has made Himself known to mankind. Today we are looking at the One which is loved by all who know Him.
The Hebrew term is JEHOSHUA, a combination term which means "JEHOVAH, THE SAVIOUR."
The Greek form of the term is JESUS, whom we call CHRIST.
Jesus was named by the Announcing Angel at the time of conception.
Mat 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
Luk 1:30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favor with God.
Luk 1:31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.
Luk 1:32 He shall be great, and shall be called the SON OF THE HIGHEST: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:
Luk 1:33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob forever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.
Jesus is also referred to as the LAMB OF GOD.
Joh 1:29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
The PUPOSE of Jesus being born was to TAKE AWAY THE SIN OF THE WORLD, and to DESTROY THE WORKS OF THE DEVIL.
1Jo 3:8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.
We must take note that the Babe in the arms of Mary was NOT GOD. He was NOT IMMORTAL AS A CHILD. Isaiah 9:6 gives us somewhat of a chronological resume of how He became what He is today.
Isa 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 9:7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even forever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
Heb 10:5 Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me: (IN THE WOMB OF MARY)
The Prophet Isaiah called Him the ARM OF THE LORD.
Isa 53:1 Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?
Isa 52:10 The LORD hath made bare his holy arm in the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God.
Isa 63:5 And I looked, and there was none to help; and I wondered that there was none to uphold: therefore mine own arm brought salvation unto me; and my fury, it upheld me.
There is another scripture that tells us about the route Jesus took to arrive at the position He occupies today.
Phi 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, 1) thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 2:7 But 2)made himself of no reputation, 3)and took upon him the form of a servant, and 4)was made in the likeness of men: 2:8 And being found in fashion as a man, 5)he humbled himself, and 6)became obedient unto death, even 7)the death of the cross. 2:9 WHEREFORE GOD ALSO HATH 1)HIGHLY EXALTED HIM, AND 2)GIVEN HIM A NAME WHICH IS ABOVE EVERY NAME: i 2:10 THAT 3)AT THE NAME OF JESUS EVERY KNEE SHOULD BOW, OF THINGS 4)IN HEAVEN, AND THINGS 5)IN EARTH, AND THINGS 6)UNDER THE EARTH; 2:11 AND THAT 7)EVERY TONGUE SHOULD CONFESS THAT JESUS CHRIST IS LORD, TO THE GLORY OF GOD THE FATHER.
Peter, on the Day of Pentecost, related what God had done in response to the Sacrifice of Jesus.
Act 2:36 THEREFORE LET ALL THE HOUSE OF ISRAEL KNOW ASSUREDLY, THAT GOD HATH MADE THAT SAME JESUS, WHOM YE HAVE CRUCIFIED, BOTH LORD AND CHRIST.
There was also a change took place when Jesus was baptized in Jordan by John.
Mat 3:16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: 3:17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
JESUS THEN HAD ACCESS TO ALL THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE WHOLE CREATION, AFTER THE "HEAVENS WERE OPENED TO HIM." THIS WAS WHEN HE WAS "ANOINTED", AND RECEIVED THE SPIRIT WITHOUT MEASURE.
Joh 3:34 For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.
FROM THAT MOMENT, JESUS WALKED IN BOTH REALMS-- THE HEAVENLY AND THE EARTHLY. FROM THAT MOMENT, JESUS OFTEN SPOKE BY THE SPIRIT AS WELL AS SPEAKING AS A MAN.
Again, Peter, at the house of Cornelius, related what had happened in the life of Jesus.
Act 10:37 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; 10:38 How GOD ANOINTED JESUS OF NAZARETH with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.
Peter, at the Gate Beautiful, tells us more of the Journey to Glory.
Act 3:13 The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go. 3:16 And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.
The GLORIFICATION of Jesus took place when He became the FIRSTBEGOTTEN FROM THE DEAD.
Rom 1:4 AND DECLARED TO BE THE SON OF GOD WITH POWER, according to the spirit of holiness, BY THE RESURRECTION FROM THE DEAD:
Act 13:33 God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee.
Heb 1:5 For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?
Psa 2:7 I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.
Rev 1:5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, 1:6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Heb 1:3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high; 1:4 Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. 1:5 For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?
Heb 10:12 But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down on the right hand of God; 10:13 From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.
According to the Inspired Word, a time will come when the Ministry of Jesus (Jehoshua, JEHOVAH-SAVIOUR) will have been completed, AND He will be known as: Rom 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the FIRSTBORN AMONG MANY BRETHREN.
1Co 15:24 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. 15:25 For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. 15:26 The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. 15:27 For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. 15:28 And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that GOD MAY BE ALL IN ALL.
The last few times we have been looking at the revelatory Names by which God has made Himself known to mankind. Today we are looking at the One which is loved by all who know Him.
The Hebrew term is JEHOSHUA, a combination term which means "JEHOVAH, THE SAVIOUR."
The Greek form of the term is JESUS, whom we call CHRIST.
Jesus was named by the Announcing Angel at the time of conception.
Mat 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
Luk 1:30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favor with God.
Luk 1:31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.
Luk 1:32 He shall be great, and shall be called the SON OF THE HIGHEST: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:
Luk 1:33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob forever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.
Jesus is also referred to as the LAMB OF GOD.
Joh 1:29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
The PUPOSE of Jesus being born was to TAKE AWAY THE SIN OF THE WORLD, and to DESTROY THE WORKS OF THE DEVIL.
1Jo 3:8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.
We must take note that the Babe in the arms of Mary was NOT GOD. He was NOT IMMORTAL AS A CHILD. Isaiah 9:6 gives us somewhat of a chronological resume of how He became what He is today.
Isa 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 9:7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even forever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
Heb 10:5 Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me: (IN THE WOMB OF MARY)
The Prophet Isaiah called Him the ARM OF THE LORD.
Isa 53:1 Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?
Isa 52:10 The LORD hath made bare his holy arm in the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God.
Isa 63:5 And I looked, and there was none to help; and I wondered that there was none to uphold: therefore mine own arm brought salvation unto me; and my fury, it upheld me.
There is another scripture that tells us about the route Jesus took to arrive at the position He occupies today.
Phi 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, 1) thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 2:7 But 2)made himself of no reputation, 3)and took upon him the form of a servant, and 4)was made in the likeness of men: 2:8 And being found in fashion as a man, 5)he humbled himself, and 6)became obedient unto death, even 7)the death of the cross. 2:9 WHEREFORE GOD ALSO HATH 1)HIGHLY EXALTED HIM, AND 2)GIVEN HIM A NAME WHICH IS ABOVE EVERY NAME: i 2:10 THAT 3)AT THE NAME OF JESUS EVERY KNEE SHOULD BOW, OF THINGS 4)IN HEAVEN, AND THINGS 5)IN EARTH, AND THINGS 6)UNDER THE EARTH; 2:11 AND THAT 7)EVERY TONGUE SHOULD CONFESS THAT JESUS CHRIST IS LORD, TO THE GLORY OF GOD THE FATHER.
Peter, on the Day of Pentecost, related what God had done in response to the Sacrifice of Jesus.
Act 2:36 THEREFORE LET ALL THE HOUSE OF ISRAEL KNOW ASSUREDLY, THAT GOD HATH MADE THAT SAME JESUS, WHOM YE HAVE CRUCIFIED, BOTH LORD AND CHRIST.
There was also a change took place when Jesus was baptized in Jordan by John.
Mat 3:16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: 3:17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
JESUS THEN HAD ACCESS TO ALL THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE WHOLE CREATION, AFTER THE "HEAVENS WERE OPENED TO HIM." THIS WAS WHEN HE WAS "ANOINTED", AND RECEIVED THE SPIRIT WITHOUT MEASURE.
Joh 3:34 For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.
FROM THAT MOMENT, JESUS WALKED IN BOTH REALMS-- THE HEAVENLY AND THE EARTHLY. FROM THAT MOMENT, JESUS OFTEN SPOKE BY THE SPIRIT AS WELL AS SPEAKING AS A MAN.
Again, Peter, at the house of Cornelius, related what had happened in the life of Jesus.
Act 10:37 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; 10:38 How GOD ANOINTED JESUS OF NAZARETH with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.
Peter, at the Gate Beautiful, tells us more of the Journey to Glory.
Act 3:13 The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go. 3:16 And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.
The GLORIFICATION of Jesus took place when He became the FIRSTBEGOTTEN FROM THE DEAD.
Rom 1:4 AND DECLARED TO BE THE SON OF GOD WITH POWER, according to the spirit of holiness, BY THE RESURRECTION FROM THE DEAD:
Act 13:33 God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee.
Heb 1:5 For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?
Psa 2:7 I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.
Rev 1:5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, 1:6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Heb 1:3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high; 1:4 Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. 1:5 For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?
Heb 10:12 But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down on the right hand of God; 10:13 From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.
According to the Inspired Word, a time will come when the Ministry of Jesus (Jehoshua, JEHOVAH-SAVIOUR) will have been completed, AND He will be known as: Rom 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the FIRSTBORN AMONG MANY BRETHREN.
1Co 15:24 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. 15:25 For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. 15:26 The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. 15:27 For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. 15:28 And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that GOD MAY BE ALL IN ALL.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
TIMES OF CRISIS
TIMES OF CRISIS
Great occasions do not make us heroes or cowards. Times of testing serve as a barometer of our Spiritual condition. They simply show us what we have been making of ourselves.
Each day, we are either growing stronger or we are getting weaker. We DO NOT REMAIN STATIC.
God's purpose in sending winds of adversity is NOT that we should FAIL and become DISCOURAGED-- No, No, No! Rather, they are HIS MESSENGERS to cause us to develop STRENGTH in THE FAITH, and walk in VICTORY.
VICTORY doesn't mean that WE WIN EVERY TIME.
The essence of VICTORY is the refusal to let circumstances deter or discourage us in our walk with JESUS.
We MUST, at any cost, maintain the commitment of our souls to the care of the Lord Jesus Christ.
TO HAVE FAITH means that we maintain our CONFIDENCE in the INTEGRITY OF GOD.
THAT IS THE "GOOD FIGHT OF FAITH"
Great occasions do not make us heroes or cowards. Times of testing serve as a barometer of our Spiritual condition. They simply show us what we have been making of ourselves.
Each day, we are either growing stronger or we are getting weaker. We DO NOT REMAIN STATIC.
God's purpose in sending winds of adversity is NOT that we should FAIL and become DISCOURAGED-- No, No, No! Rather, they are HIS MESSENGERS to cause us to develop STRENGTH in THE FAITH, and walk in VICTORY.
VICTORY doesn't mean that WE WIN EVERY TIME.
The essence of VICTORY is the refusal to let circumstances deter or discourage us in our walk with JESUS.
We MUST, at any cost, maintain the commitment of our souls to the care of the Lord Jesus Christ.
TO HAVE FAITH means that we maintain our CONFIDENCE in the INTEGRITY OF GOD.
THAT IS THE "GOOD FIGHT OF FAITH"
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
ABRAHAM'S CITY
ABRAHAM'S CITY
According to present day prophetic teachers, Jerusalem in the land of Palestine is the focus of much speculative teaching about what is destined to happen in the last days.
Right now, we are hearing a great deal about a certain red heifer, and the role intended for her to fulfill in the plans of the Israeli people.
We also hear rumors of the plans for a new temple, either on the old site or on a new site-- it doesn't make much difference.
If people are making a mistake, it doesn't matter too much whether it is a big mistake or a small one. Either one will miss the intended goal.
I think, sometimes, that the prople who lived when Jesus lived, and rejected Him because of a lack of proper teaching and understanding, were not much worse off, if any, than our Bible teachers of today. The believers today are apt to miss the true events of God as badly as those who crucified Jesus. Our "guns" are pointing the wrong direction.
Abraham, 4,000 years ago, may have known more than we do today. He didn't have the "benefit" of Bible commentators-- he had to depend upon what God told him. Any way, Abraham was looking for a City. Not an earthly city, but one which has "foundations."
Hebrews 11:10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker [is] God.
If Abraham knew enough to keep his eyes off of an earthly city, shouldn't we also know as much? Do we have any right to be looking at what God considers "last year's bird nest"?
Hebrews 11:16 But now they desire a better [country], that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.
Hebrews 12:28 Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:
Hebrews 13:14 For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come.
Revelation 21:2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
Revelation 21:10 And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God,
Revelation 21:16 And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal.
Revelation 21:27 And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither [whatsoever] worketh abomination, or [maketh] a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.
May I submit to you that no earthly city will ever figure into God's Eternal Plan. We need to let those people in Palestine worry about their city-- it will never be accepted of God. MEN ARE BUILDING IT.
God is building His own City-- right now. You and I are a part of it. We fit into it in some manner-- walls, foundations, gates. We are there NOW!
WE are the City not made with hands-- the City Foursquare-- out of Heaven-- the Spirit of God.
Our City has no need of the sun, for the Lamb is the light.
Hey! I don't have all the answers yet. But I believe I have heard from God on the matter. I can't tell you all about the streets of Gold-- the wall of Jasper, etc. etc.. But I do believe they represent Christians with certain characteristics which cause them to be classified as "wall" or "street" or some other part. I am sure God knows where each one of us fits.
Have you ever wondered why you are like you are-- why you do what you do? Has God made you that way by His Spirit, so you can perform a function in His Celestial City?
Consider what I say!
According to present day prophetic teachers, Jerusalem in the land of Palestine is the focus of much speculative teaching about what is destined to happen in the last days.
Right now, we are hearing a great deal about a certain red heifer, and the role intended for her to fulfill in the plans of the Israeli people.
We also hear rumors of the plans for a new temple, either on the old site or on a new site-- it doesn't make much difference.
If people are making a mistake, it doesn't matter too much whether it is a big mistake or a small one. Either one will miss the intended goal.
I think, sometimes, that the prople who lived when Jesus lived, and rejected Him because of a lack of proper teaching and understanding, were not much worse off, if any, than our Bible teachers of today. The believers today are apt to miss the true events of God as badly as those who crucified Jesus. Our "guns" are pointing the wrong direction.
Abraham, 4,000 years ago, may have known more than we do today. He didn't have the "benefit" of Bible commentators-- he had to depend upon what God told him. Any way, Abraham was looking for a City. Not an earthly city, but one which has "foundations."
Hebrews 11:10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker [is] God.
If Abraham knew enough to keep his eyes off of an earthly city, shouldn't we also know as much? Do we have any right to be looking at what God considers "last year's bird nest"?
Hebrews 11:16 But now they desire a better [country], that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.
Hebrews 12:28 Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:
Hebrews 13:14 For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come.
Revelation 21:2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
Revelation 21:10 And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God,
Revelation 21:16 And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal.
Revelation 21:27 And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither [whatsoever] worketh abomination, or [maketh] a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.
May I submit to you that no earthly city will ever figure into God's Eternal Plan. We need to let those people in Palestine worry about their city-- it will never be accepted of God. MEN ARE BUILDING IT.
God is building His own City-- right now. You and I are a part of it. We fit into it in some manner-- walls, foundations, gates. We are there NOW!
WE are the City not made with hands-- the City Foursquare-- out of Heaven-- the Spirit of God.
Our City has no need of the sun, for the Lamb is the light.
Hey! I don't have all the answers yet. But I believe I have heard from God on the matter. I can't tell you all about the streets of Gold-- the wall of Jasper, etc. etc.. But I do believe they represent Christians with certain characteristics which cause them to be classified as "wall" or "street" or some other part. I am sure God knows where each one of us fits.
Have you ever wondered why you are like you are-- why you do what you do? Has God made you that way by His Spirit, so you can perform a function in His Celestial City?
Consider what I say!
Monday, May 14, 2007
THE NAME OF THE LORD
THE NAME OF THE LORD
What is the Name of the Lord?
Don't be too quick to answer that, for I know what you might be thinking. The name "Jesus" will not be a satisfactory answer, though I will not say you are wrong.
But, the Bible is what I call "self-contained", or speaking its own language. The language of the Bible is not necessarily English, Greek or Hebrew. It is a Spiritual language, and it is necessary for the Spirit to interpret that language. If we try to read it as an earthly language, we will most certainly miss the true meaning. We MUST have access to the Spiritual meaning if we are to have the proper understanding.
Let's go to the book of Exodus, chapter 33. Here is a record of Moses chiding with God-- telling Him that He has not adequately equipped him to lead the people of Israel. He needs to know more about the situation at hand, or he is not sure he wants to continue with the assignment.
Exodus 33:12 And Moses said unto the LORD, See, thou sayest unto me, Bring up this people: and thou hast not let me know whom thou wilt send with me. Yet thou hast said, I know thee by name, and thou hast also found grace in my sight. Now therefore, I pray thee, if I have found grace in thy sight, shew me now thy way, that I may know thee, that I may find grace in thy sight: and consider that this nation [is] thy people. And he said, My presence shall go [with thee], and I will give thee rest. And he said unto him, If thy presence go not [with me], carry us not up hence. For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? [is it] not in that thou goest with us? so shall we be separated, I and thy people, from all the people that [are] upon the face of the earth. And the LORD said unto Moses, I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken: for thou hast found grace in my sight, and I know thee by name. And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory.
Then the Lord JEHOVAH makes some commitments to Moses, one of which is to reveal HIS NAME to him. Moses went a bit further, and asked the Lord to show him HIS GLORY. But that request was a bit too much, though He would show Moses HIS WAY. (I take that to mean He would show Moses the "WHY" of "WHAT" He would be doing in and through Israel.)
Exodus 33:19 And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy. And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live.
The Lord told Moses to come alone to the top of the mountain first thing in the morning, and He would attend to the matter. Moses was to take two more tables of stone for the Lord to write upon, because he had angrily broken the first two. (Moses broke the law, and got by with it.)
But, let's listen to what the NAME OF THE LORD sounded like-- straight from the Lord Himself.
Exodus 34:5 And the LORD descended in the cloud, and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the LORD. And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear [the guilty]; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth [generation].
Needless to say, that got the attention of Moses, and he hastily "came to attention" right then and there. Exodus 34:8 And Moses made haste, and bowed his head toward the earth, and worshipped.
It should also command our attention, for there is much said about that Name throughout the scriptures.
The NAME was a description of the VERY NATURE of the Lord. HIS NATURE IS HIS NAME!
One that comes to my mind right now is found in the Revelation of Jesus Christ, as it was given to John on the Isle of Patmos.
Revelation 14:1 And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty [and] four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads.
When we accept Him, He BEGINS WRITING HIS NATURE upon us (our forehead-- our mind-- the seat of our lives). It is not a "Once-‘n done" deal. Rather it is a progressive process which is accomplished by OUR CONSENT AND CO-OPERATION with His Spirit as He works HIS NATURE into our beings through the vicissitudes of our lives.
At some point, (and I can not say where it is) we can reach a stage of development in God where He looks at us and is satisfied with what He sees.
We will have HIS NAME upon our forehead.
It will be worth every ounce of determination and effort it will have cost us to have attained to that degree of Spiritual refinement and ascendancy.
THE NAME APPLIED
THE NAME IN THE FOREHEAD
When the Church was very young-- in fact in its first day-- while some were looking for the whiskey jugs-- thinking the first Church members to be drunk, Peter stood up and gave a message from God-- inspired by the Holy Ghost. He told the members of the Jewish nation that they had, with wicked hands, crucified the one who had come as their Messiah, and who had been made both LORD and CHRIST.
The Spiritual Force with which the message was delivered was such that any honest heart could not resist it. It was electrifying, and the results were immediate.
Acts 2:37, 38 Now when they heard [this], they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men [and] brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Why does baptism become a part of the equation? First, because God commanded it-- whether we understand it or not. But there are a few explanations-- some of them good, and some of them not so good. I suspect that the best of the attempted explanations fall far short of doing the matter justice.
But one comes to mind right now, which is about as good as any I have heard. Galatians 3:27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
Notice, Paul specifies that our baptism is into Christ, or Jesus, who is the Christ.
This is accomplished when we are baptized in, or into, the Name of Jesus Christ. That Name, which is above every name, is applied to us when we are baptized into it.
Have you ever wondered why Jesus was quoted, (Mat 28:19) as commanding to baptize in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost? Have you ever wondered why the early Church leaders did not do it-- even one time? Every recorded baptism in the book of Acts was administered in the Name of Jesus, or the Name of the Lord.
Fact is-- there is almost conclusive proof that the original manuscript contained the phrase "in My Name" instead of the modern rendering. The "proof" that we have is to be found in the writings some of the earliest Church leaders (Eusebius, for one example). In every instance of quoting Mat 28:19, they quoted "In My Name."
Those first manuscripts were destroyed, and replaced by altered versions after the Council of Nicea, according to the late A.H. Broughton.
But, that is not the real subject I want to deal with today.
What I really want to deal with is the different ways in which the Name of Jesus can be applied to our lives.
One method is, obviously, by immersion in or into the Name of Jesus.
I cannot serve as judge over anyone who is immersed, sprinkled, dunked or whatever else, in any other fashion. God alone knows the hearts of all people, and He alone is qualified to be the judge. But, knowing what I know, I can be satisfied with nothing short of immersion in, or into the Name of Jesus.
But I see another way in which the Name will or will not be applied to each one of us as an individual. Listen while I quote you some scripture--
Revelation 14:1 And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty [and] four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads.
Revelation 22:4 And they shall see his face; and his name [shall be] in their foreheads.
If I have understood the Word correctly, these are Christians who stand out in the midst of other Christians-- "head and shoulders above the rest."
The term "forehead" is understood to be referring to the source of all activity of the person. The seat of all emotions and actions. So, what does this mean? There is a reward for those who meet the requirements
Is it possible to have the Name of Jesus applied to our lives in baptism, and still not have it imprinted into our foreheads? Without doubt this is true.
Jesus will, if we let Him, refine our natures to be more conformable to His Spirit. But not all of us are willing to submit to the process of refinement. Heat and acids are tools of refinement. We shrink back from both of them, if we obey the impulses of our flesh.
And this can be going on while we are still safe and secure in the Name of Jesus (by baptism into His Name).
But the JEWELS OF THE LORD will be those who have permitted the "hot and hurtful" process of character refinement to be accomplished in us.
Why should we allow the refinement of character to take place? Aren't we assured a place in Heaven without it? Probably so. But there is something BETTER THAN HEAVEN. It is Heaven AND His Name in the forehead
What is the Name of the Lord?
Don't be too quick to answer that, for I know what you might be thinking. The name "Jesus" will not be a satisfactory answer, though I will not say you are wrong.
But, the Bible is what I call "self-contained", or speaking its own language. The language of the Bible is not necessarily English, Greek or Hebrew. It is a Spiritual language, and it is necessary for the Spirit to interpret that language. If we try to read it as an earthly language, we will most certainly miss the true meaning. We MUST have access to the Spiritual meaning if we are to have the proper understanding.
Let's go to the book of Exodus, chapter 33. Here is a record of Moses chiding with God-- telling Him that He has not adequately equipped him to lead the people of Israel. He needs to know more about the situation at hand, or he is not sure he wants to continue with the assignment.
Exodus 33:12 And Moses said unto the LORD, See, thou sayest unto me, Bring up this people: and thou hast not let me know whom thou wilt send with me. Yet thou hast said, I know thee by name, and thou hast also found grace in my sight. Now therefore, I pray thee, if I have found grace in thy sight, shew me now thy way, that I may know thee, that I may find grace in thy sight: and consider that this nation [is] thy people. And he said, My presence shall go [with thee], and I will give thee rest. And he said unto him, If thy presence go not [with me], carry us not up hence. For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? [is it] not in that thou goest with us? so shall we be separated, I and thy people, from all the people that [are] upon the face of the earth. And the LORD said unto Moses, I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken: for thou hast found grace in my sight, and I know thee by name. And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory.
Then the Lord JEHOVAH makes some commitments to Moses, one of which is to reveal HIS NAME to him. Moses went a bit further, and asked the Lord to show him HIS GLORY. But that request was a bit too much, though He would show Moses HIS WAY. (I take that to mean He would show Moses the "WHY" of "WHAT" He would be doing in and through Israel.)
Exodus 33:19 And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy. And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live.
The Lord told Moses to come alone to the top of the mountain first thing in the morning, and He would attend to the matter. Moses was to take two more tables of stone for the Lord to write upon, because he had angrily broken the first two. (Moses broke the law, and got by with it.)
But, let's listen to what the NAME OF THE LORD sounded like-- straight from the Lord Himself.
Exodus 34:5 And the LORD descended in the cloud, and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the LORD. And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear [the guilty]; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth [generation].
Needless to say, that got the attention of Moses, and he hastily "came to attention" right then and there. Exodus 34:8 And Moses made haste, and bowed his head toward the earth, and worshipped.
It should also command our attention, for there is much said about that Name throughout the scriptures.
The NAME was a description of the VERY NATURE of the Lord. HIS NATURE IS HIS NAME!
One that comes to my mind right now is found in the Revelation of Jesus Christ, as it was given to John on the Isle of Patmos.
Revelation 14:1 And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty [and] four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads.
When we accept Him, He BEGINS WRITING HIS NATURE upon us (our forehead-- our mind-- the seat of our lives). It is not a "Once-‘n done" deal. Rather it is a progressive process which is accomplished by OUR CONSENT AND CO-OPERATION with His Spirit as He works HIS NATURE into our beings through the vicissitudes of our lives.
At some point, (and I can not say where it is) we can reach a stage of development in God where He looks at us and is satisfied with what He sees.
We will have HIS NAME upon our forehead.
It will be worth every ounce of determination and effort it will have cost us to have attained to that degree of Spiritual refinement and ascendancy.
THE NAME APPLIED
THE NAME IN THE FOREHEAD
When the Church was very young-- in fact in its first day-- while some were looking for the whiskey jugs-- thinking the first Church members to be drunk, Peter stood up and gave a message from God-- inspired by the Holy Ghost. He told the members of the Jewish nation that they had, with wicked hands, crucified the one who had come as their Messiah, and who had been made both LORD and CHRIST.
The Spiritual Force with which the message was delivered was such that any honest heart could not resist it. It was electrifying, and the results were immediate.
Acts 2:37, 38 Now when they heard [this], they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men [and] brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Why does baptism become a part of the equation? First, because God commanded it-- whether we understand it or not. But there are a few explanations-- some of them good, and some of them not so good. I suspect that the best of the attempted explanations fall far short of doing the matter justice.
But one comes to mind right now, which is about as good as any I have heard. Galatians 3:27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
Notice, Paul specifies that our baptism is into Christ, or Jesus, who is the Christ.
This is accomplished when we are baptized in, or into, the Name of Jesus Christ. That Name, which is above every name, is applied to us when we are baptized into it.
Have you ever wondered why Jesus was quoted, (Mat 28:19) as commanding to baptize in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost? Have you ever wondered why the early Church leaders did not do it-- even one time? Every recorded baptism in the book of Acts was administered in the Name of Jesus, or the Name of the Lord.
Fact is-- there is almost conclusive proof that the original manuscript contained the phrase "in My Name" instead of the modern rendering. The "proof" that we have is to be found in the writings some of the earliest Church leaders (Eusebius, for one example). In every instance of quoting Mat 28:19, they quoted "In My Name."
Those first manuscripts were destroyed, and replaced by altered versions after the Council of Nicea, according to the late A.H. Broughton.
But, that is not the real subject I want to deal with today.
What I really want to deal with is the different ways in which the Name of Jesus can be applied to our lives.
One method is, obviously, by immersion in or into the Name of Jesus.
I cannot serve as judge over anyone who is immersed, sprinkled, dunked or whatever else, in any other fashion. God alone knows the hearts of all people, and He alone is qualified to be the judge. But, knowing what I know, I can be satisfied with nothing short of immersion in, or into the Name of Jesus.
But I see another way in which the Name will or will not be applied to each one of us as an individual. Listen while I quote you some scripture--
Revelation 14:1 And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty [and] four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads.
Revelation 22:4 And they shall see his face; and his name [shall be] in their foreheads.
If I have understood the Word correctly, these are Christians who stand out in the midst of other Christians-- "head and shoulders above the rest."
The term "forehead" is understood to be referring to the source of all activity of the person. The seat of all emotions and actions. So, what does this mean? There is a reward for those who meet the requirements
Is it possible to have the Name of Jesus applied to our lives in baptism, and still not have it imprinted into our foreheads? Without doubt this is true.
Jesus will, if we let Him, refine our natures to be more conformable to His Spirit. But not all of us are willing to submit to the process of refinement. Heat and acids are tools of refinement. We shrink back from both of them, if we obey the impulses of our flesh.
And this can be going on while we are still safe and secure in the Name of Jesus (by baptism into His Name).
But the JEWELS OF THE LORD will be those who have permitted the "hot and hurtful" process of character refinement to be accomplished in us.
Why should we allow the refinement of character to take place? Aren't we assured a place in Heaven without it? Probably so. But there is something BETTER THAN HEAVEN. It is Heaven AND His Name in the forehead
Sunday, May 13, 2007
THE SCOURGINGS OF GOD
THOSE FLOGGINGS
A strange inspiration came to me last night, and I have learned (I hope) to allow them to develop, even if I don't know why.
Perhaps not many of you are aware of the fact that God makes a difference, in His Word, between those who are "born into the family of God" (Christian believers), and those who attain to the status of "Sons". But, that fact is borne out throughout the Bible-- both the Old Testament and the New. We won't labor the proof this morning, but get right to the point impressed upon me last night.
God deals with "children" differently than with those who are "striving for the masteries"-- who are "overcomers" in the making, or "sons" in the making. Case in point: According to the parable of the ninety and nine-- the shepherd seeks for a “Christian” who wanders away. Conversely, according to the parable of the prodigal son-- a "son-in-the-making" is left to his own devices (plans and purposes) until he, through the process of sowing and reaping, "comes to himself".
Let's look at some scripture. Hebrews 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, (child-training) and scourgeth (flogging) every son whom he receiveth (into Sonship). Find the word "scourging" in Hebrews 11:36 And others had trial of [cruel] mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:. It comes from the word used to describe the Roman beatings of a criminal. It is a far cry from a "walk in the park" or a game of "tiddly winks". Jesus was "scourged" (flogged) in the judgment hall of Pilate. John 19:1 Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged [him].
This is the SERIOUS BUSINESS of producing a "Son" via the process of SPIRITUAL REFINEMENT AND PERSONAL PURIFICATION. It can become a very painful, bruising process before the Lord is satisfied. And, WE CAN ESCAPE IT IF WE WISH. We do not have to accept such treatment from the Lord. HE WILL NOT FORCE IT UPON ANYONE. But, Listen to scripture:
Hebrews 12:7 IF YE ENDURE CHASTENING, GOD DEALETH WITH YOU AS WITH SONS"; for what SON is he whom the father chasteneth not?
Hebrews 12:8 BUT IF YE BE WITHOUT (refuse) CHASTISEMENT, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
Hebrews 12:5 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise (refuse) not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint ("think it not strange") when thou art rebuked of him: Hebrews 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
All "Sons-in-the-making" are Christians (blood-bought), but not all blood-bought Christians are "Sons-in-the-making".
Let's "strive for the masteries". II Timothy 2:5 And if a man also strive for masteries, [yet] is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.
I Corinthians 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is TEMPERATE IN ALL THINGS. Now they [do it] to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
A strange inspiration came to me last night, and I have learned (I hope) to allow them to develop, even if I don't know why.
Perhaps not many of you are aware of the fact that God makes a difference, in His Word, between those who are "born into the family of God" (Christian believers), and those who attain to the status of "Sons". But, that fact is borne out throughout the Bible-- both the Old Testament and the New. We won't labor the proof this morning, but get right to the point impressed upon me last night.
God deals with "children" differently than with those who are "striving for the masteries"-- who are "overcomers" in the making, or "sons" in the making. Case in point: According to the parable of the ninety and nine-- the shepherd seeks for a “Christian” who wanders away. Conversely, according to the parable of the prodigal son-- a "son-in-the-making" is left to his own devices (plans and purposes) until he, through the process of sowing and reaping, "comes to himself".
Let's look at some scripture. Hebrews 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, (child-training) and scourgeth (flogging) every son whom he receiveth (into Sonship). Find the word "scourging" in Hebrews 11:36 And others had trial of [cruel] mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:. It comes from the word used to describe the Roman beatings of a criminal. It is a far cry from a "walk in the park" or a game of "tiddly winks". Jesus was "scourged" (flogged) in the judgment hall of Pilate. John 19:1 Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged [him].
This is the SERIOUS BUSINESS of producing a "Son" via the process of SPIRITUAL REFINEMENT AND PERSONAL PURIFICATION. It can become a very painful, bruising process before the Lord is satisfied. And, WE CAN ESCAPE IT IF WE WISH. We do not have to accept such treatment from the Lord. HE WILL NOT FORCE IT UPON ANYONE. But, Listen to scripture:
Hebrews 12:7 IF YE ENDURE CHASTENING, GOD DEALETH WITH YOU AS WITH SONS"; for what SON is he whom the father chasteneth not?
Hebrews 12:8 BUT IF YE BE WITHOUT (refuse) CHASTISEMENT, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
Hebrews 12:5 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise (refuse) not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint ("think it not strange") when thou art rebuked of him: Hebrews 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
All "Sons-in-the-making" are Christians (blood-bought), but not all blood-bought Christians are "Sons-in-the-making".
Let's "strive for the masteries". II Timothy 2:5 And if a man also strive for masteries, [yet] is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.
I Corinthians 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is TEMPERATE IN ALL THINGS. Now they [do it] to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Friday, May 11, 2007
ONE THING ID DO
THE HIGH CALLING OF GOD
Philippians 3:13,14 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but [this] ONE THING [I do], FORGETTING those things which are behind, and REACHING FORTH unto those things which are before, I PRESS TOWARD THE MARK FOR THE PRIZE OF THE HIGH CALLING OF GOD in Christ Jesus.
We MUST IMPRESS upon you at this point that the Lord DID NOT have SALVATION in mind when He caused these words to be penned by the Apostle Paul. The HIGH CALLING OF GOD is not bestowed upon us at the time we accept Jesus into our lives. Nor is it given when we receive the Holy Ghost Baptism. Those are GIVEN FREELY TO US AS WE COME TO JESUS.
To attain to the PRIZE of the HIGH CALLING requires MUCH EFFORT on our part. Yet, none of us can attain to it entirely by our own efforts. The best we can do is to MAKE OURSELVES A CANDIDATE for it. The Lord, WHO KNOWS THE HEART COMPLETELY, does the CHOOSING.
Malachi 3:16,17 Then they that FEARED the LORD spake (lit. consulted) often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard [it], and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought (lit. reckoned) upon his name. And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day WHEN I MAKE UP MY JEWELS; -- (mg. special treasure)
God has a pre-determined reward reserved for those whom He chooses for this honor.
Romans 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate [TO BE] CONFORMED TO THE IMAGE OF HIS SON, THAT HE MIGHT BE THE FIRSTBORN AMONG MANY BRETHREN.
ICorinthians 9:24 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain
Philippians 3:12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I FOLLOW AFTER (Dioko), if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.
ICorinthians 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they [do it] to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
In a natural race or competitive event, there can only be ONE winner. But, with God, EVERYBODY has the opportunity to win. Do not give up in this race just because you don't show as well as another one does. God is dealing in heart condition rather than surface appearance. You CAN be a WINNER.
ICorinthians 9:27 But I keep under my body, and bring [it] into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. (fail to be an overcomer)
IITimothy 2:4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of [this] life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.
IITimothy 2:5 And if a man also strive for masteries, [yet] is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully. (The SPIRIT OF GOD MUST BE OUR TRAINER AND COACH.)
I BELIEVE that the criterion will be the degree to which we have overcome the spirit of Man in our lives, and how much we have cultivated the SPIRIT OF GOD (the NATURE OF GOD) INTO OUR LIVES.
Apparently, Paul achieved success in his struggle, for his last testimony was:
IITimothy 4:7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished [my] course, I have kept the faith:
THE HIGH CALLING OF GOD IN CHRIST JESUS.
Philippians 3:13,14 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but [this] ONE THING [I do], FORGETTING those things which are behind, and REACHING FORTH unto those things which are before, I PRESS TOWARD THE MARK FOR THE PRIZE OF THE HIGH CALLING OF GOD in Christ Jesus.
We MUST IMPRESS upon you at this point that the Lord DID NOT have SALVATION in mind when He caused these words to be penned by the Apostle Paul. The HIGH CALLING OF GOD is not bestowed upon us at the time we accept Jesus into our lives. Nor is it given when we receive the Holy Ghost Baptism. Those are GIVEN FREELY TO US AS WE COME TO JESUS.
To attain to the PRIZE of the HIGH CALLING requires MUCH EFFORT on our part. Yet, none of us can attain to it entirely by our own efforts. The best we can do is to MAKE OURSELVES A CANDIDATE for it. The Lord, WHO KNOWS THE HEART COMPLETELY, does the CHOOSING.
Malachi 3:16,17 Then they that FEARED the LORD spake (lit. consulted) often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard [it], and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought (lit. reckoned) upon his name. And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day WHEN I MAKE UP MY JEWELS; -- (mg. special treasure)
God has a pre-determined reward reserved for those whom He chooses for this honor.
Romans 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate [TO BE] CONFORMED TO THE IMAGE OF HIS SON, THAT HE MIGHT BE THE FIRSTBORN AMONG MANY BRETHREN.
ICorinthians 9:24 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain
Philippians 3:12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I FOLLOW AFTER (Dioko), if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.
ICorinthians 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they [do it] to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
In a natural race or competitive event, there can only be ONE winner. But, with God, EVERYBODY has the opportunity to win. Do not give up in this race just because you don't show as well as another one does. God is dealing in heart condition rather than surface appearance. You CAN be a WINNER.
ICorinthians 9:27 But I keep under my body, and bring [it] into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. (fail to be an overcomer)
IITimothy 2:4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of [this] life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.
IITimothy 2:5 And if a man also strive for masteries, [yet] is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully. (The SPIRIT OF GOD MUST BE OUR TRAINER AND COACH.)
I BELIEVE that the criterion will be the degree to which we have overcome the spirit of Man in our lives, and how much we have cultivated the SPIRIT OF GOD (the NATURE OF GOD) INTO OUR LIVES.
Apparently, Paul achieved success in his struggle, for his last testimony was:
IITimothy 4:7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished [my] course, I have kept the faith:
THE HIGH CALLING OF GOD IN CHRIST JESUS.
Thursday, May 10, 2007
THE HILL OF THE LORD
WHO SHALL ASCEND?
Psalms24:3-5 Who shall ASCEND into the HILL OF THE LORD? or who shall STAND in HIS HOLY PLACE? He that hath clean hands,and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the LORD—
Psalms15:1-5 LORD, who shall ABIDE in thy TABERNACLE? who shall DWELL in thy HOLY HILL? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. [He that] backbiteth not with his tongue,nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. In whose eyes a vile personis contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. [He that] sweareth to [his own] hurt, and changeth not. [He that] putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these [things] shall never be moved.
Notice, please, that the Psalmist DID NOT ASK WHO COULD BE SAVED FROM SIN AND MAKE HEAVEN THEIR HOME. Those are FREE for the asking, with no effort on our part except to ask for, and receive, God's provision for the welfare of our soul.
But, to ascend to the HILL OF THE LORD is quite another subject entirely, and seems to be very much dependent upon what we allow or disallow in our personal character and conduct.
The HILL OF THE LORD is identified in other places as being the MOUNTAIN OF HIS HOLINESS.
Psalms 48:1 Great [is] the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God,[in] the MOUNTAIN OF HIS HOLINESS.
Also, the HILL OF THE LORD is NOT A GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION. Rather-- it is A SPIRITUAL CONDITION WHICH WE ACHIEVE BY OBEDIENCE TO THE WORD OF GOD-- COUPLED WITH HIS SPIRIT.
Isaiah 2:3 And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the MOUNTAIN OF THE LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will TEACH US OF HIS WAYS, AND WE WILL WALK IN HIS PATHS: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.
How many times? How easy it is for us to ignore the known Word of God, and do what our own desires dictate in any given situation. Too often for comfort, when faced with the reality of our choices. There is no one to FORCE us to act according to the Word and Spirit of God. Judging from God's apparent disregard for our actions, we seem to think that He doesn't care, or is taking no account of our disregard of His Word.
But, such is not the case, for it is all recorded, and will tip the balance one way or the other-- usually in a negative way.
And, please note, we can continue for an indefinite period of time in our own actions and reactions, and still be among those who will make Heaven our home in the next life.
But that is NOT WHAT SONSHIP IS ALL ABOUT. SONSHIP is about God MUSTERING AND TRAINING an ARMY through which He can tear down the Kingdoms of this world, and replace them with HIS KINGDOM ON EARTH.
Do we want to be in that Army?
YES! YES! YES!
SONSHIP is about SENDING REAPERS INTO THE WORLD TO REAP A HARVEST FOR THE LORD
THE REAPERS MUST HAVE A SPECIAL ANOINTING FOR THE JOB. It CANNOT be done by just anyone who decides they want to work. We have enough of that being done now-- with pitifully small results. BUT, THE REAPERS WILL REAP!
Matthew 13:30 Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the TIME OF THE HARVEST I will say TO THE REAPERS, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn.
THE ENTIRE WORLD WILL BE CONFRONTED WITH THE REALITY OF JESUS CHRIST AS A RESULT OFTHE ARMY OF THE LORD (OVERCOMERS) BEING SENT INTO THE HARVEST FIELD (WORLD)
Can we qualify for membership in this ARMY OF GOD?
YES, WE CAN, BUT IT WON'T BE EASY.
Psalms24:3-5 Who shall ASCEND into the HILL OF THE LORD? or who shall STAND in HIS HOLY PLACE? He that hath clean hands,and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the LORD—
Psalms15:1-5 LORD, who shall ABIDE in thy TABERNACLE? who shall DWELL in thy HOLY HILL? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. [He that] backbiteth not with his tongue,nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. In whose eyes a vile personis contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. [He that] sweareth to [his own] hurt, and changeth not. [He that] putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these [things] shall never be moved.
Notice, please, that the Psalmist DID NOT ASK WHO COULD BE SAVED FROM SIN AND MAKE HEAVEN THEIR HOME. Those are FREE for the asking, with no effort on our part except to ask for, and receive, God's provision for the welfare of our soul.
But, to ascend to the HILL OF THE LORD is quite another subject entirely, and seems to be very much dependent upon what we allow or disallow in our personal character and conduct.
The HILL OF THE LORD is identified in other places as being the MOUNTAIN OF HIS HOLINESS.
Psalms 48:1 Great [is] the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God,[in] the MOUNTAIN OF HIS HOLINESS.
Also, the HILL OF THE LORD is NOT A GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION. Rather-- it is A SPIRITUAL CONDITION WHICH WE ACHIEVE BY OBEDIENCE TO THE WORD OF GOD-- COUPLED WITH HIS SPIRIT.
Isaiah 2:3 And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the MOUNTAIN OF THE LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will TEACH US OF HIS WAYS, AND WE WILL WALK IN HIS PATHS: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.
How many times? How easy it is for us to ignore the known Word of God, and do what our own desires dictate in any given situation. Too often for comfort, when faced with the reality of our choices. There is no one to FORCE us to act according to the Word and Spirit of God. Judging from God's apparent disregard for our actions, we seem to think that He doesn't care, or is taking no account of our disregard of His Word.
But, such is not the case, for it is all recorded, and will tip the balance one way or the other-- usually in a negative way.
And, please note, we can continue for an indefinite period of time in our own actions and reactions, and still be among those who will make Heaven our home in the next life.
But that is NOT WHAT SONSHIP IS ALL ABOUT. SONSHIP is about God MUSTERING AND TRAINING an ARMY through which He can tear down the Kingdoms of this world, and replace them with HIS KINGDOM ON EARTH.
Do we want to be in that Army?
YES! YES! YES!
SONSHIP is about SENDING REAPERS INTO THE WORLD TO REAP A HARVEST FOR THE LORD
THE REAPERS MUST HAVE A SPECIAL ANOINTING FOR THE JOB. It CANNOT be done by just anyone who decides they want to work. We have enough of that being done now-- with pitifully small results. BUT, THE REAPERS WILL REAP!
Matthew 13:30 Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the TIME OF THE HARVEST I will say TO THE REAPERS, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn.
THE ENTIRE WORLD WILL BE CONFRONTED WITH THE REALITY OF JESUS CHRIST AS A RESULT OFTHE ARMY OF THE LORD (OVERCOMERS) BEING SENT INTO THE HARVEST FIELD (WORLD)
Can we qualify for membership in this ARMY OF GOD?
YES, WE CAN, BUT IT WON'T BE EASY.
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
WHAT HAST THOU?
WHAT HAST THOU?
I got my cage rattled last night while reading. Did you ever have a scripture jump off the page and do a little dance to get your attention?
1CO 4:7 For who maketh thee to differ [from another]? and what hast thou
that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive [it], why
dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received [it]?
Paul was launching into a mini-scolding of the folks at Corinth for the attitude they had been holding toward him and some of the other apostles.
By the way, if you want some very interesting reading, read again the two letters to the Corinthians with one thought in mind. See how Paul used the personal pronouns WE and YE (YOU). It was a real eye-opener to me when I did it.
But the scripture spoke something new to me last night. And it was directly to me.
The Lord seemed to want to impress upon me that I am nothing. I have nothing in myself. I am nobody. I have no credentials, no skills, no abilities, nothing that is of any value to God or man.
Apart from what I receive from the Lord, there is no good in me, and there is no good that I can do for anyone else.
But, thanks be to God, I DO receive from Him, and I AM able to minister to others to the degree that I am capable of receiving from Him.
The secret is learning how to empty myself of myself, so that I can receive from Him.
The anointing which destroys the yoke can only spring from a vessel which is empty enough of the spirit of MAN that it can receive of the Spirit of GOD.
I had, for several years, a note in a scrap book, which said something to the effect that no matter what language or words we use, we can say no more than what we are. If that is true, it is little wonder the world is in its present condition.
ROM 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is
among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to
think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every
man the measure of faith.
1TI 1:12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he
counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;
JAM 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh
down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness,
neither shadow of turning.
I got my cage rattled last night while reading. Did you ever have a scripture jump off the page and do a little dance to get your attention?
1CO 4:7 For who maketh thee to differ [from another]? and what hast thou
that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive [it], why
dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received [it]?
Paul was launching into a mini-scolding of the folks at Corinth for the attitude they had been holding toward him and some of the other apostles.
By the way, if you want some very interesting reading, read again the two letters to the Corinthians with one thought in mind. See how Paul used the personal pronouns WE and YE (YOU). It was a real eye-opener to me when I did it.
But the scripture spoke something new to me last night. And it was directly to me.
The Lord seemed to want to impress upon me that I am nothing. I have nothing in myself. I am nobody. I have no credentials, no skills, no abilities, nothing that is of any value to God or man.
Apart from what I receive from the Lord, there is no good in me, and there is no good that I can do for anyone else.
But, thanks be to God, I DO receive from Him, and I AM able to minister to others to the degree that I am capable of receiving from Him.
The secret is learning how to empty myself of myself, so that I can receive from Him.
The anointing which destroys the yoke can only spring from a vessel which is empty enough of the spirit of MAN that it can receive of the Spirit of GOD.
I had, for several years, a note in a scrap book, which said something to the effect that no matter what language or words we use, we can say no more than what we are. If that is true, it is little wonder the world is in its present condition.
ROM 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is
among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to
think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every
man the measure of faith.
1TI 1:12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he
counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;
JAM 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh
down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness,
neither shadow of turning.
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
I HAVE FIVE BROTHERS
FIVE BROTHERS
Jesus told a parable to His disciples one day, about a rich man, and a beggar named Lazarus.
There have been multitudes of explanations of the parable, and even a few feuds about whether it was, in fact, a parable, or a real happening. Let me inform the reader that about two-thirds of the times that Luke said "A certain Man", you will find the exact same story in another Gospel, but it is called a parable in the other Gospel. Unfortunately, THIS ONE is NOT recorded anywhere else, so the battle lines remain.
Our judgement is that it WAS a parable, and that it was NOT dealing with the awfulness of hell, but was pointing up another situation that those folks were familiar with, namely:
THE SINS OF THE PRIESTHOOD AND THE END OF CEREMONIAL LAW
The Levitical priests were "clothed in Purple". They also "fared sumptously every day". Read in Leviticus how much revenue the priests received from the Altar. Figure out how the tithing system worked, and see that the High Priest received 16 times the amount which Joe Blow was paying tithes on. Rich man, faring sumptously every day.
That is not to say that the tithing system was wrong, for it CERTAINLY WAS NOT. However, the nature of man being such as it is, it afforded wonderful opportunity for exploitation and sin. And to make matters worse, there was NO ONE who could "blow the whistle" on such activity. The law of tithing, in one sense, assures us that God is a good Paymaster to those who have forsaken other callings in order to be free to do His bidding, and WILL do it.
One prime requisite of a Priest is that he be merciful, and, of course, the Levitical Priesthood forsook that trait in short order after the death of Moses. They soon became despotic and abusive. The sons of Eli were good examples of Clerical Misconduct. Eli was a fat, man (he had fared sumptously).
In hell, the fat, rich man woke up to reality, and started calling for mercy, of which he had shown none, in his lifetime. He was rebuffed by the Father of the Faithful, who assured him there could be NO CONCORD BETWEEN LAW AND FAITH.
ABRAHAM WALKED WITH GOD BY FAITH, and pleased Him. He lived apart from the Law of Ordinances. It was not "showy" in any sense of the word. He walked alone, just as you and I have to walk alone with God. The Law of Moses, with the Priesthood, could never find a place in the "Bosom of Abraham". There was no DELIVERANCE in the Law.
The Law was cruel and unmerciful. It HAD TO BE DONE AWAY WITH.
The rich man said he had five brethren. HERE IS THE KEY to understanding the parable. The names of the brethren were: Reuben, Simeon, Judah, Gad and Asher. The name of the rich man was Levi, instead of Dives. Levi was the priest of Israel, and one of the six sons of Leah and her handmaid. Leah was not favored, but Rachel was the one Jacob loved.
We walk with God by Faith, or not at all. If we try to mix Mosaic Law with Faith, we commit spiritual adultery. Our allegience is to Jesus Christ ALONE. HE, ALONE, CAN SAVE US. HE, ALONE, IS OUR HOPE. "MOSES, MY SERVANT, IS DEAD."
Jesus told a parable to His disciples one day, about a rich man, and a beggar named Lazarus.
There have been multitudes of explanations of the parable, and even a few feuds about whether it was, in fact, a parable, or a real happening. Let me inform the reader that about two-thirds of the times that Luke said "A certain Man", you will find the exact same story in another Gospel, but it is called a parable in the other Gospel. Unfortunately, THIS ONE is NOT recorded anywhere else, so the battle lines remain.
Our judgement is that it WAS a parable, and that it was NOT dealing with the awfulness of hell, but was pointing up another situation that those folks were familiar with, namely:
THE SINS OF THE PRIESTHOOD AND THE END OF CEREMONIAL LAW
The Levitical priests were "clothed in Purple". They also "fared sumptously every day". Read in Leviticus how much revenue the priests received from the Altar. Figure out how the tithing system worked, and see that the High Priest received 16 times the amount which Joe Blow was paying tithes on. Rich man, faring sumptously every day.
That is not to say that the tithing system was wrong, for it CERTAINLY WAS NOT. However, the nature of man being such as it is, it afforded wonderful opportunity for exploitation and sin. And to make matters worse, there was NO ONE who could "blow the whistle" on such activity. The law of tithing, in one sense, assures us that God is a good Paymaster to those who have forsaken other callings in order to be free to do His bidding, and WILL do it.
One prime requisite of a Priest is that he be merciful, and, of course, the Levitical Priesthood forsook that trait in short order after the death of Moses. They soon became despotic and abusive. The sons of Eli were good examples of Clerical Misconduct. Eli was a fat, man (he had fared sumptously).
In hell, the fat, rich man woke up to reality, and started calling for mercy, of which he had shown none, in his lifetime. He was rebuffed by the Father of the Faithful, who assured him there could be NO CONCORD BETWEEN LAW AND FAITH.
ABRAHAM WALKED WITH GOD BY FAITH, and pleased Him. He lived apart from the Law of Ordinances. It was not "showy" in any sense of the word. He walked alone, just as you and I have to walk alone with God. The Law of Moses, with the Priesthood, could never find a place in the "Bosom of Abraham". There was no DELIVERANCE in the Law.
The Law was cruel and unmerciful. It HAD TO BE DONE AWAY WITH.
The rich man said he had five brethren. HERE IS THE KEY to understanding the parable. The names of the brethren were: Reuben, Simeon, Judah, Gad and Asher. The name of the rich man was Levi, instead of Dives. Levi was the priest of Israel, and one of the six sons of Leah and her handmaid. Leah was not favored, but Rachel was the one Jacob loved.
We walk with God by Faith, or not at all. If we try to mix Mosaic Law with Faith, we commit spiritual adultery. Our allegience is to Jesus Christ ALONE. HE, ALONE, CAN SAVE US. HE, ALONE, IS OUR HOPE. "MOSES, MY SERVANT, IS DEAD."
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