THE GREATEST DISPLAY OF GOD'S POWER
I read a little tract one day, long ago, written by a Greek scholar who was trying to get the word out to the public about the greatest display of God's mighty power ever shown to the onlooking spirits-- including Satan. Look at what I remember.
Ephesians 1:15 Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the SPIRIT OF WISDOM AND REVELATION IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF HIM: The EYES OF YOUR UNDERSTANDING BEING ENLIGHTENED; that ye may know what is the HOPE OF HIS CALLING, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what [is] the EXCEEDING GREATNESS OF HIS POWER TO US-WARD WHO BELIEVE, ACCORDING TO THE WORKING OF HIS MIGHTY POWER, Which he wrought in Christ, WHEN HE RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD, AND SET [HIM] AT HIS OWN RIGHT HAND IN THE HEAVENLY [PLACES], Far ABOVE ALL PRINCIPALITY, AND POWER, AND MIGHT, AND DOMINION, AND EVERY NAME THAT IS NAMED, NOT ONLY IN THIS WORLD, BUT ALSO IN THAT WHICH IS TO COME: AND HATH PUT ALL [THINGS] UNDER HIS FEET, AND GAVE HIM [TO BE] THE HEAD OVER ALL [THINGS] TO THE CHURCH, Which is h is body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.
Right now, after having pulled in the scriptures from the Bible, I am going back and EMPHASIZE some key words, as given by the tract writer. (I don't remember the name)
The words and phrases which are capitalized do, according to the Greek scholar, show a combination of words which, as he explained, demonstrate the greatest display of God's ability and strength ever given.
The resurrection of Jesus seems to be the central theme of the portion of scripture recorded by Paul in his letter to Ephesus.
When Jesus was raised, incorruptible, He was placed in a position of absolute authority over all spirits, governments, organizations, etc..
"IN HEAVENLY PLACES" is a key phrase. Watch for it later.
"FAR ABOVE" is a key phrase. Bear it in mind as you read further in the Ephesian letter.
EVERYTHING is beneath Him. EVERYTHING is subjected to Him. NO EXCEPTIONS.
When Paul wrote the letter, he did not put verse numbers nor chapter numbers in it. That has been done by men who attempted to make it easier for us to understand. God's Word can NEVER be understood by the MINDS of men. God's truths must be DISCERNED BY THE SPIRIT which He has given to us.
Ephesians 2:1 And you [hath he quickened], who were dead in trespasses and sins;
Here is the secret of the GREATEST DISPLAY, as recorded here. OUR SPIRITUAL AND PHYSICAL RESURRECTION WAS ACCOMPLISHED AT THE TIME JESUS CAME OUT OF THE GRAVE. It is a "done deal."
It is ours, if we will accept God's provision for the welfare of our soul in Jesus Christ. We could never pay for it, but it is ours for the asking if we will put our trust in Jesus Christ.
WOTTA DEAL!!!
Monday, November 26, 2007
FAMINE IN THE LAND
FAMINE IN THE LAND
When Joshua entered the Promised Land, he was soon met by some men clothed in deceit, (read about it in Joshua ch. 9) who said they had come from a very distant place. They lied, but Joshua didn't ask of the Lord, and made a league with them.
Within a few days, he was called upon to defend them against five other kings who were mad at them for having made peace with Joshua and Israel. God managed to turn the bad situation which Joshua had created by his mistake, into a victory for Israel.
God intends for us to keep our word-- even when it is costly. Psalms 15:1 LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? Psalms 15:4 In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. [He that] sweareth to [his own] hurt, and changeth not.
We learn, that over 400 years later, when Saul was king of Is-rael, Saul broke the National word of Israel to the Gibeonites, and slew some of them. Then, later, Saul died.
After David had been reigning about 35 years, II Samuel 21:1 Then there was a famine in the days of David three years, year after year; and David inquired of the LORD. And the LORD answered, [It is] for Saul, and for [his] bloody house, because he slew the Gibeonites. And the king called the Gibeonites, and said unto them; (now the Gibeonites [were] not of the children of Israel, but of the remnant of the Amorites; and the children of Israel had sworn unto them: and Saul sought to slay them in his zeal to the children of Israel and Judah.)
Think of it-- nearly 40 years had gone by since Saul's murderous breach of National honor. But God DOES NOT FORGET. Time DOES NOT HEAL a breaching of our word.
Bro. Clinton Brown used to preach that even if we missed God when we said we would do a thing, if it had not been God's Will at the time, it suddenly BECOMES GOD'S WILL for our life when we give our word that we will do it. God EXPECTS us to keep our word.
I have often wondered just how much of our National and personal distress has been caused by the breaking of our word of honor, which we have given at some time.
Our great nation is not yet 400 years old, and many different "administrations" have come and gone since that beginning. Have some of the reversals of policy by some of those administrations been contributing factors to the mess we find ourselves in today?
I wonder. What about my own life? Are some of my problems the product of my own makings?
When Joshua entered the Promised Land, he was soon met by some men clothed in deceit, (read about it in Joshua ch. 9) who said they had come from a very distant place. They lied, but Joshua didn't ask of the Lord, and made a league with them.
Within a few days, he was called upon to defend them against five other kings who were mad at them for having made peace with Joshua and Israel. God managed to turn the bad situation which Joshua had created by his mistake, into a victory for Israel.
God intends for us to keep our word-- even when it is costly. Psalms 15:1 LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? Psalms 15:4 In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. [He that] sweareth to [his own] hurt, and changeth not.
We learn, that over 400 years later, when Saul was king of Is-rael, Saul broke the National word of Israel to the Gibeonites, and slew some of them. Then, later, Saul died.
After David had been reigning about 35 years, II Samuel 21:1 Then there was a famine in the days of David three years, year after year; and David inquired of the LORD. And the LORD answered, [It is] for Saul, and for [his] bloody house, because he slew the Gibeonites. And the king called the Gibeonites, and said unto them; (now the Gibeonites [were] not of the children of Israel, but of the remnant of the Amorites; and the children of Israel had sworn unto them: and Saul sought to slay them in his zeal to the children of Israel and Judah.)
Think of it-- nearly 40 years had gone by since Saul's murderous breach of National honor. But God DOES NOT FORGET. Time DOES NOT HEAL a breaching of our word.
Bro. Clinton Brown used to preach that even if we missed God when we said we would do a thing, if it had not been God's Will at the time, it suddenly BECOMES GOD'S WILL for our life when we give our word that we will do it. God EXPECTS us to keep our word.
I have often wondered just how much of our National and personal distress has been caused by the breaking of our word of honor, which we have given at some time.
Our great nation is not yet 400 years old, and many different "administrations" have come and gone since that beginning. Have some of the reversals of policy by some of those administrations been contributing factors to the mess we find ourselves in today?
I wonder. What about my own life? Are some of my problems the product of my own makings?
COME OUT OF HER, MY PEOPLE
COME OUT OF HER, MY PEOPLE
Revelation 18:4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. Revelation 18:5 For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.
As near as I can tell, this message to the true Church is scheduled to be heralded on a world-wide scale near the end of the period of Grace as we know it today. It will be an unmistakable call, with very little chance of being misinterpreted or misunderstood by those who hear it. The urgency of the call will be similar to that of Lot, when the angels urged him out of Sodom-- almost irresistable.
Notice that it is NOT a voice from a MAN, nor a group of humans. It is a voice DIRECTLY FROM HEAVEN. It is directed to a specific people-- "MY PEOPLE."
Revelation 18:2 And he CRIED MIGHTILY WITH A STRONG VOICE, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.
The conditions described here are indicative of a degraded condition in the midst of whatever is meant by the term "BABYLON." There is plenty of room for speculation about the identity of this "woman" called Babylon. Is it RELIGIOUS? Is it POLITICAL? Is it BOTH?
We are told that in 70 AD there were no Christians in Jerusalem. God had given them a time slot of a few days, while Titus regrouped his armies, and they all fled the city. And, I am old enough that I remember the way the Lord delivered the Allied Armies in a crucial time during World War II at Dunkirque, by sending a dense fog to cover the evacuation of the troops.
Is God ABLE to direct His People to a position of safety? Is God WILLING to direct His People to a position of safety? You know the answer.
The big question is whether His people will hear the call, and if so, how many will heed the call.
Revelation 18:4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. Revelation 18:5 For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.
As near as I can tell, this message to the true Church is scheduled to be heralded on a world-wide scale near the end of the period of Grace as we know it today. It will be an unmistakable call, with very little chance of being misinterpreted or misunderstood by those who hear it. The urgency of the call will be similar to that of Lot, when the angels urged him out of Sodom-- almost irresistable.
Notice that it is NOT a voice from a MAN, nor a group of humans. It is a voice DIRECTLY FROM HEAVEN. It is directed to a specific people-- "MY PEOPLE."
Revelation 18:2 And he CRIED MIGHTILY WITH A STRONG VOICE, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.
The conditions described here are indicative of a degraded condition in the midst of whatever is meant by the term "BABYLON." There is plenty of room for speculation about the identity of this "woman" called Babylon. Is it RELIGIOUS? Is it POLITICAL? Is it BOTH?
We are told that in 70 AD there were no Christians in Jerusalem. God had given them a time slot of a few days, while Titus regrouped his armies, and they all fled the city. And, I am old enough that I remember the way the Lord delivered the Allied Armies in a crucial time during World War II at Dunkirque, by sending a dense fog to cover the evacuation of the troops.
Is God ABLE to direct His People to a position of safety? Is God WILLING to direct His People to a position of safety? You know the answer.
The big question is whether His people will hear the call, and if so, how many will heed the call.
THE SPIRIT OF BURNING
THE SPIRIT OF BURNING
God has some wonderful things in store for those who
diligently seek His Face for His cleansing power in their lives.
That is, perhaps, the most needful activity we can be exercised
in today. It is more important than being prosperous financial
ly. It is more important than being physically healthy.
Spiritual purity is the result of a working of the Holy
Ghost in our lives. It comes from the Hand of God.
Isaiah 1:25 And I will turn my hand upon thee, and
purely purge away thy dross, and take away all thy tin:
Oh! How we need the moving of the Hand of God in our
lives. Ironically, as much as we desire the Purity of the Spir
it, we shrink back from the process which produces it for us.
Isaiah 4:4 When the Lord shall have washed away the filth
of the daughters of Zion, and shall have purged the blood of
Jerusalem from the midst thereof by the spirit of JUDGMENT, and
by the spirit of BURNING.
The Spirit of JUDGMENT is that which shows us what God
sees to be important (that is what the Hebrew word means). His
scale of values is much different than ours. His Ways are high
er. His Thoughts are higher. He is looking from a different
angle (Eternity) than we do.
The Spirit of BURNING speaks to us of the FIRE and HEAT
that is necessary to separate the dross and tin from our lives.
We MUST NOT forget that it is HIS SPIRIT that is produc
ing the heat and pressure that it takes to rid us of the impuri
ties in our lives. We blame the devil, and rebuke him, mistaken
ly.
Be encouraged. The process WILL come to an end when the
desired result is accomplished.
Isaiah 28:28 Bread [corn] is BRUISED; because he will not
ever (forever) be threshing it, nor break [it with] the wheel of
his cart, nor bruise it [with] his horsemen.
God is not doing it for fun, but for our bene
fit.
Ezekiel 36:25 Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you,
and ye shall be CLEAN: from all your filthiness, and from all
your idols, will I cleanse you.
Ezekiel 36:37 Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will yet [for]
this be inquired of by the house of Israel, to do [it] for them;
I will increase them with men like a flock.
Zechariah 13:1 In that day there shall be a FOUNTAIN
OPENED to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem
for sin and for uncleanness.
Psalms 51:10 CREATE IN ME A CLEAN HEART, O God; and RENEW
A RIGHT SPIRIT within me.
Isaiah 55:6 Seek ye the LORD while he may be found,
call ye upon him while he is near:
Jeremiah 29:13 And ye shall seek me, and find [me], when
ye shall search for me with all your heart.
God has some wonderful things in store for those who
diligently seek His Face for His cleansing power in their lives.
That is, perhaps, the most needful activity we can be exercised
in today. It is more important than being prosperous financial
ly. It is more important than being physically healthy.
Spiritual purity is the result of a working of the Holy
Ghost in our lives. It comes from the Hand of God.
Isaiah 1:25 And I will turn my hand upon thee, and
purely purge away thy dross, and take away all thy tin:
Oh! How we need the moving of the Hand of God in our
lives. Ironically, as much as we desire the Purity of the Spir
it, we shrink back from the process which produces it for us.
Isaiah 4:4 When the Lord shall have washed away the filth
of the daughters of Zion, and shall have purged the blood of
Jerusalem from the midst thereof by the spirit of JUDGMENT, and
by the spirit of BURNING.
The Spirit of JUDGMENT is that which shows us what God
sees to be important (that is what the Hebrew word means). His
scale of values is much different than ours. His Ways are high
er. His Thoughts are higher. He is looking from a different
angle (Eternity) than we do.
The Spirit of BURNING speaks to us of the FIRE and HEAT
that is necessary to separate the dross and tin from our lives.
We MUST NOT forget that it is HIS SPIRIT that is produc
ing the heat and pressure that it takes to rid us of the impuri
ties in our lives. We blame the devil, and rebuke him, mistaken
ly.
Be encouraged. The process WILL come to an end when the
desired result is accomplished.
Isaiah 28:28 Bread [corn] is BRUISED; because he will not
ever (forever) be threshing it, nor break [it with] the wheel of
his cart, nor bruise it [with] his horsemen.
God is not doing it for fun, but for our bene
fit.
Ezekiel 36:25 Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you,
and ye shall be CLEAN: from all your filthiness, and from all
your idols, will I cleanse you.
Ezekiel 36:37 Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will yet [for]
this be inquired of by the house of Israel, to do [it] for them;
I will increase them with men like a flock.
Zechariah 13:1 In that day there shall be a FOUNTAIN
OPENED to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem
for sin and for uncleanness.
Psalms 51:10 CREATE IN ME A CLEAN HEART, O God; and RENEW
A RIGHT SPIRIT within me.
Isaiah 55:6 Seek ye the LORD while he may be found,
call ye upon him while he is near:
Jeremiah 29:13 And ye shall seek me, and find [me], when
ye shall search for me with all your heart.
Friday, November 23, 2007
FACTS VERSUS TRUTH
FACTS VERSUS TRUTH
When I was a small child, my school teacher drilled into us the phrase, "you stay by facts, and facts will stay by you."
I found this to be a very good principle in every phase of life except one. It will not work in our relationship to God. GOD DOES NOT OPERATE IN THE REALM OF FACTS. They will serve only to foul us up in our walk with Him.
GOD DEALS IN THE REALM OF FAITH AND TRUTH, and we have to deal with Him on this basis. Consider:
Abraham and Sarah were both too old, it was PHYSICALLY IMPOSSIBLE for them to have a child. This FACT is irrefutable. But by FAITH IN THE TRUTH OF GOD'S WORD it was done. Also consider:
I had committed many sins before I was drawn to Jesus by His Spirit. They are FACTS, and many of them linger in my memory yet, even though I have made my Peace With God, and have been forgiven by Him.
But one day I discovered the word "justified". It sent me on a search for a simple meaning which I could understand. It means to be ACQUITTED, or DECLARED INNOCENT, such as jury would find or declare.
I was in a dilemma. FACT insists I am GUILTY of the things I had done. TRUTH declares me to be INNOCENT. I CAN NOT BE BOTH GUILTY AND INNOCENT AT THE SAME TIME. Which one is correct--FACT OR TRUTH?
I chose to put my confidence in TRUTH. It brought Peace to my soul.
JUSTIFICATION IS ONE OF THE MIRACLES OF GOD'S GRACE. IT BLOTS OUT THE FACT OF GUILT, AND ESTABLISHES THE TRUTH OF INNOCENCE.
Jesus was stripped of His righteousness, and laden with my sin on the Cross. When it happened, He cried in anguish, "My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken Me?" He carried my guilt when He died. He died a sinner in my stead. He has imputed His innocence to me by the miracle of Justification by Faith.
When I was a small child, my school teacher drilled into us the phrase, "you stay by facts, and facts will stay by you."
I found this to be a very good principle in every phase of life except one. It will not work in our relationship to God. GOD DOES NOT OPERATE IN THE REALM OF FACTS. They will serve only to foul us up in our walk with Him.
GOD DEALS IN THE REALM OF FAITH AND TRUTH, and we have to deal with Him on this basis. Consider:
Abraham and Sarah were both too old, it was PHYSICALLY IMPOSSIBLE for them to have a child. This FACT is irrefutable. But by FAITH IN THE TRUTH OF GOD'S WORD it was done. Also consider:
I had committed many sins before I was drawn to Jesus by His Spirit. They are FACTS, and many of them linger in my memory yet, even though I have made my Peace With God, and have been forgiven by Him.
But one day I discovered the word "justified". It sent me on a search for a simple meaning which I could understand. It means to be ACQUITTED, or DECLARED INNOCENT, such as jury would find or declare.
I was in a dilemma. FACT insists I am GUILTY of the things I had done. TRUTH declares me to be INNOCENT. I CAN NOT BE BOTH GUILTY AND INNOCENT AT THE SAME TIME. Which one is correct--FACT OR TRUTH?
I chose to put my confidence in TRUTH. It brought Peace to my soul.
JUSTIFICATION IS ONE OF THE MIRACLES OF GOD'S GRACE. IT BLOTS OUT THE FACT OF GUILT, AND ESTABLISHES THE TRUTH OF INNOCENCE.
Jesus was stripped of His righteousness, and laden with my sin on the Cross. When it happened, He cried in anguish, "My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken Me?" He carried my guilt when He died. He died a sinner in my stead. He has imputed His innocence to me by the miracle of Justification by Faith.
the earnest
THE EARNEST
Let me direct your attention to the great Salvation which is to be awarded to God's children shortly.
Comparatively few people realize that such a thing exists in the plan of God. It seems that our eyes have been directed to eternity and the skies whenever we have thought about the future as a Christian.
There are several references to the fact that we posses only a small fraction of what will one day be made available to His chosen ones.
Paul calls it the "earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession". Eph 1:14 He again calls it the "firstfruits of the Spirit" in Rom 8:23
We know that an earnest is a pledge given in leiu of the full amount, and pending further developments. The Holy Ghost Baptism is a wonderful thing, but we must not lose sight of the fact that it is but a small portion of a greater quantity being held in reserve for us.
Firstfruits speaks of some greater amount to follow. It serves as a sample. The firstfruits is but a small token of a vast ingathering. So, when that word is used to denote the Spirit given at our Baptism of the Holy Ghost, we may be sure there is some greater portion of that Holy Spirit being reserved for a time and a people.
1 Pet. 1:1-13 mentions the salvation which is being reserved and is ready to be revealed in the last time.(vs 5) We rejoice in the hope of this greater salvation, even if trials and sorrows be our lot while waiting.
If we hold steady through it all, we shall receive the ultimate end of our faith. It is this COMPLETE SALVATION, which the angels have desired to look into. It puzzled the Prophets who prophesied about it, and they tried hard to understand what they spoke about, but were unable to comprehend the glory which should come to God's elect as a result of Calvary. The glory is still future, and holy men are still grappling with a proper understanding of its meaning. We are admonished to be sober, and hopeful while waiting for it, for it shall come at a time known only to God. I believe it is near at hand.
Let me direct your attention to the great Salvation which is to be awarded to God's children shortly.
Comparatively few people realize that such a thing exists in the plan of God. It seems that our eyes have been directed to eternity and the skies whenever we have thought about the future as a Christian.
There are several references to the fact that we posses only a small fraction of what will one day be made available to His chosen ones.
Paul calls it the "earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession". Eph 1:14 He again calls it the "firstfruits of the Spirit" in Rom 8:23
We know that an earnest is a pledge given in leiu of the full amount, and pending further developments. The Holy Ghost Baptism is a wonderful thing, but we must not lose sight of the fact that it is but a small portion of a greater quantity being held in reserve for us.
Firstfruits speaks of some greater amount to follow. It serves as a sample. The firstfruits is but a small token of a vast ingathering. So, when that word is used to denote the Spirit given at our Baptism of the Holy Ghost, we may be sure there is some greater portion of that Holy Spirit being reserved for a time and a people.
1 Pet. 1:1-13 mentions the salvation which is being reserved and is ready to be revealed in the last time.(vs 5) We rejoice in the hope of this greater salvation, even if trials and sorrows be our lot while waiting.
If we hold steady through it all, we shall receive the ultimate end of our faith. It is this COMPLETE SALVATION, which the angels have desired to look into. It puzzled the Prophets who prophesied about it, and they tried hard to understand what they spoke about, but were unable to comprehend the glory which should come to God's elect as a result of Calvary. The glory is still future, and holy men are still grappling with a proper understanding of its meaning. We are admonished to be sober, and hopeful while waiting for it, for it shall come at a time known only to God. I believe it is near at hand.
A BETTER COUNTRY
A BETTER COUNTRY
Whoever wrote the book of Hebrews certainly had a good understanding of God's plan for His followers. The writer used a few terms to explain God's intent in a way that we can readily grasp with clarity.
In recalling the Heroes of Faith, (chapter 11) Abraham is used to demonstrate a blind obedience to the command of God. We also see the results of God revealing Himself to a man. A REVELATION of the SPIRIT imparts a knowledge to the soul and mind of a person.
Hebrews 11:8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as [in] a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which HATH FOUNDATIONS, whose builder and maker [is] God.
Abraham had, by the Spirit, caught a vision of an Eternal City (one that had FOUNDATIONS). There are no cities of this world which will make the transition into the Eternal World, because they are all builded by man. They (everything we can see) all are to perish with the world. We can not trust in any government (city), nor in anything that pertains to them. All that we see and handle is temporal.
Hebrews 13:14 For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come.
Each of us needs to ask ourselves, "Where have I put my confidence, what am I putting my trust in?" If it is fastened on anything which this world has or can produce, we are in deep trouble.
It is only natural for us to want to be located in a good neighborhood, near good schools and shopping centers, above the hundred-year flood plane, etc. etc. This is NOT WRONG, for God expects us to be concerned about such things. Prudence dictates that we take note of such things.
Prudence (WISDOM) also dictates that we be concerned about what awaits us beyond the dividing of this life from that which is to come. That is far more important than the natural things.
We are only on earth for a short span of time, but Eternity is in another realm altogether. I can not explain it to you, but I am convinced that it is even more real than what we are seeing in the here and now.
Hebrews 11:13 These all died in faith, NOT HAVING RECEIVED THE PROMISES, BUT HAVING SEEN THEM AFAR OFF, and were persuaded of [them], and embraced [them], and CONFESSED THAT THEY WERE STRANGERS AND PILGRIMS ON THE EARTH. For they that say such things declare plainly that THEY SEEK A COUNTRY.
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.
When God reveals Himself to us, we, like the patriarchs of old, catch a vision of an ETERNAL CITY, A STEADFAST CITY IN A BETTER COUNTRY. It is part of the package.
Whoever wrote the book of Hebrews certainly had a good understanding of God's plan for His followers. The writer used a few terms to explain God's intent in a way that we can readily grasp with clarity.
In recalling the Heroes of Faith, (chapter 11) Abraham is used to demonstrate a blind obedience to the command of God. We also see the results of God revealing Himself to a man. A REVELATION of the SPIRIT imparts a knowledge to the soul and mind of a person.
Hebrews 11:8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as [in] a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which HATH FOUNDATIONS, whose builder and maker [is] God.
Abraham had, by the Spirit, caught a vision of an Eternal City (one that had FOUNDATIONS). There are no cities of this world which will make the transition into the Eternal World, because they are all builded by man. They (everything we can see) all are to perish with the world. We can not trust in any government (city), nor in anything that pertains to them. All that we see and handle is temporal.
Hebrews 13:14 For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come.
Each of us needs to ask ourselves, "Where have I put my confidence, what am I putting my trust in?" If it is fastened on anything which this world has or can produce, we are in deep trouble.
It is only natural for us to want to be located in a good neighborhood, near good schools and shopping centers, above the hundred-year flood plane, etc. etc. This is NOT WRONG, for God expects us to be concerned about such things. Prudence dictates that we take note of such things.
Prudence (WISDOM) also dictates that we be concerned about what awaits us beyond the dividing of this life from that which is to come. That is far more important than the natural things.
We are only on earth for a short span of time, but Eternity is in another realm altogether. I can not explain it to you, but I am convinced that it is even more real than what we are seeing in the here and now.
Hebrews 11:13 These all died in faith, NOT HAVING RECEIVED THE PROMISES, BUT HAVING SEEN THEM AFAR OFF, and were persuaded of [them], and embraced [them], and CONFESSED THAT THEY WERE STRANGERS AND PILGRIMS ON THE EARTH. For they that say such things declare plainly that THEY SEEK A COUNTRY.
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.
When God reveals Himself to us, we, like the patriarchs of old, catch a vision of an ETERNAL CITY, A STEADFAST CITY IN A BETTER COUNTRY. It is part of the package.
CHOSEN OF GOD
CHOSEN OF GOD
What caused Jesus to specifically call each of the disciples whom He chose to follow Him? Or, do you suppose the Lord just randomly spoke to each of them as He came upon them?
Why was each one WILLING to leave nets, tax rolls, etc. and immediately follow Him?
I have often wondered about this, and many other events which we read about. Did such things just "happen", or were they orchestrated by the Spirit of the Almighty?
I definitely lean toward the belief that the Lord is much more involved in the lives of His followers than we care to admit. The Spirit leads us in ways we do not recognize, many times. Often by circumstances beyond our control. Often by strong desires or inclinations.
One favorite example of God's direction in human lives is the account in 1 Kings 7 where the four leprous men were driven by desperation to hobble out toward the camp of the beseiging army in the twilight of the evening. These four men certainly did not make the noise which was heard by the Syrian soldiers.
Nor could the four lepers have caused the sudden, demoralizing fear that gripped the hearts of the warriors getting ready for supper. God can REALLY scare people when He wants to. Mile after mile was littered with clothes which the Syrians found to be too much of a hindrance to them in their flight from the armies they "heard". Four leprous men hobbling out through the twilight.
What caused the people to gather palm branches to wave, and to lay before Jesus as He rode into Jerusalem that day on the colt, the foal of an ass? Was it the result of a massive advertising campaign. Was He doing an "Elvis" on them? Why did the children run through the temple crying "Hosannah"? Who told them to do it? If our interpretation is correct, what caused suckling babies to pull away from the breast of their mothers and give glory to God?
How's come the young ass didn't buck and rear when Jesus got on his back? He had never had an experience like that before.
The Bible says that the "city was moved" (see Mat 21:10) when Jesus was making the triumphal entry? The word "moved" is also translated "earthquakes" in diverse places in Mat 24:7.
Without doubt, God's Spirit was active in these, and other events which are recorded for our encouragement and learning.
This brings up the question-- "What has God done in your life?" How many times has He been leading you, when you wist it not?
Be encouraged in the Lord.
What caused Jesus to specifically call each of the disciples whom He chose to follow Him? Or, do you suppose the Lord just randomly spoke to each of them as He came upon them?
Why was each one WILLING to leave nets, tax rolls, etc. and immediately follow Him?
I have often wondered about this, and many other events which we read about. Did such things just "happen", or were they orchestrated by the Spirit of the Almighty?
I definitely lean toward the belief that the Lord is much more involved in the lives of His followers than we care to admit. The Spirit leads us in ways we do not recognize, many times. Often by circumstances beyond our control. Often by strong desires or inclinations.
One favorite example of God's direction in human lives is the account in 1 Kings 7 where the four leprous men were driven by desperation to hobble out toward the camp of the beseiging army in the twilight of the evening. These four men certainly did not make the noise which was heard by the Syrian soldiers.
Nor could the four lepers have caused the sudden, demoralizing fear that gripped the hearts of the warriors getting ready for supper. God can REALLY scare people when He wants to. Mile after mile was littered with clothes which the Syrians found to be too much of a hindrance to them in their flight from the armies they "heard". Four leprous men hobbling out through the twilight.
What caused the people to gather palm branches to wave, and to lay before Jesus as He rode into Jerusalem that day on the colt, the foal of an ass? Was it the result of a massive advertising campaign. Was He doing an "Elvis" on them? Why did the children run through the temple crying "Hosannah"? Who told them to do it? If our interpretation is correct, what caused suckling babies to pull away from the breast of their mothers and give glory to God?
How's come the young ass didn't buck and rear when Jesus got on his back? He had never had an experience like that before.
The Bible says that the "city was moved" (see Mat 21:10) when Jesus was making the triumphal entry? The word "moved" is also translated "earthquakes" in diverse places in Mat 24:7.
Without doubt, God's Spirit was active in these, and other events which are recorded for our encouragement and learning.
This brings up the question-- "What has God done in your life?" How many times has He been leading you, when you wist it not?
Be encouraged in the Lord.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
TANGLED
TANGLED STRANDS
This morning I awakened with a few words of a song which we heard in McCall, Idaho in 1945-46.
"Dear Lord, take up the tangled strands, Where I have wrought in vain. And with the skill of Thy dear Hand,--" That is all I can remember.
My mind ran, rather quickly, back over my life, and I saw the many times when I was in need of Divine Skill to bring order out of the chaos I had, unwittingly, brought forth in my life.
The amazing part of it is-- He seemed to have been waiting in the wings, until I realized I had made a mess of things and would look to Him for a solution.
I was remided of a story told by an Evangelist who held us a 5 week meeting in 1943. He related how Paul Rader, in his pre-Christian life, had walked past the old J And P Coats sign in New York City. On the sign was a kitten who had become tangled hopelessly with thread from a spool. Once Paul remarked to the kitten, "Kitty, I'm about as tangled as you are."
But, one evening shortly after that, Paul stopped into a Mission. God spoke to his heart, and he responded when the invitation was given. He had a lige-altering experience with the Lord there that night. His later accomplishments attested to the genuineness of his encounter with Jesus that night.
After leaving the Mission, Paul again passed under the "Kitty" sign. This time he looked up and remarked, "Kitty, you're still tangled up, but I'm free!"
I have learned that, no matter how badly I have fumbled the affairs of my life-- no matter how miserably I have failed in my attempts to guide my life-- ALWAYS, if and when I turn to Jesus, He is there to help me straighten my life up again.
Romans 11:33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable [are] his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
Deuteronomy 33:27 The eternal God [is thy] refuge, and underneath [are] the everlasting arms:---
He does not always erase the effects of my blundering-- some things I have to "live with" the rest of my life. But He forgives me for the sin of rebellion against His Leadings in my life.
Gradually, I am learning that the desire to run my own life actually constitutes a rebellion against Him, and the guidance of His Spirit.
Psalms 100:5 For the LORD [is] good; his mercy [is] everlasting; and his truth [endureth] to all generations.
This morning I awakened with a few words of a song which we heard in McCall, Idaho in 1945-46.
"Dear Lord, take up the tangled strands, Where I have wrought in vain. And with the skill of Thy dear Hand,--" That is all I can remember.
My mind ran, rather quickly, back over my life, and I saw the many times when I was in need of Divine Skill to bring order out of the chaos I had, unwittingly, brought forth in my life.
The amazing part of it is-- He seemed to have been waiting in the wings, until I realized I had made a mess of things and would look to Him for a solution.
I was remided of a story told by an Evangelist who held us a 5 week meeting in 1943. He related how Paul Rader, in his pre-Christian life, had walked past the old J And P Coats sign in New York City. On the sign was a kitten who had become tangled hopelessly with thread from a spool. Once Paul remarked to the kitten, "Kitty, I'm about as tangled as you are."
But, one evening shortly after that, Paul stopped into a Mission. God spoke to his heart, and he responded when the invitation was given. He had a lige-altering experience with the Lord there that night. His later accomplishments attested to the genuineness of his encounter with Jesus that night.
After leaving the Mission, Paul again passed under the "Kitty" sign. This time he looked up and remarked, "Kitty, you're still tangled up, but I'm free!"
I have learned that, no matter how badly I have fumbled the affairs of my life-- no matter how miserably I have failed in my attempts to guide my life-- ALWAYS, if and when I turn to Jesus, He is there to help me straighten my life up again.
Romans 11:33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable [are] his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
Deuteronomy 33:27 The eternal God [is thy] refuge, and underneath [are] the everlasting arms:---
He does not always erase the effects of my blundering-- some things I have to "live with" the rest of my life. But He forgives me for the sin of rebellion against His Leadings in my life.
Gradually, I am learning that the desire to run my own life actually constitutes a rebellion against Him, and the guidance of His Spirit.
Psalms 100:5 For the LORD [is] good; his mercy [is] everlasting; and his truth [endureth] to all generations.
WHY PRAY
WHY PRAY?
I Timothy 2:1, 2 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.
It seems a little odd to me that the things Paul put the most EMPHASIS on are the ones we bestow the most NEGLECT on. It would appear that we are satisfied to have held another service, sung some more songs, and greeted each other in a friendly way. Then we return to our normal way of life until next Sunday (Morning), when we repeat the process all over again.
"HOLDING CHURCH DOESN'T CUT IT". The Spiritual condition continues to decline, and no one seems to notice. Or if they do notice, they are too engrossed in their own ways to do anything about it-- even in their own lives.
Jesus, angered at conditions in the Temple, vehemently declared, "MY HOUSE shall be called a HOUSE OF PRAYER." Today, in a similar fashion, we have corrupted His House with:
--PROGRAMS of our own ingenuity, hoping that God will add His Blessing to them. HE DOES NOT.
--PERSONALITY PARADES, men projecting themselves, their own abilities, rather than being the humble servants of Jesus Christ, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. THEY FAIL.
--WARDROBES AND POSSESSIONS. Church has largely become a fashion show. A RELIGIOUS CLUB HOUSE.
These things are more of a detriment than a blessing.
There are three ingredients that are necessary. They are:
PRAISE, PRAYER, PREACHING.
Of the three, prayer is probably the most neglected in our churches because it is difficult to bring ourselves down in humiliation before God in supplication (begging). No one likes to BEG anyone for anything. But that is what the word means.
Prayers and intercessions are costly activities in terms of time and effort. They do not gratify the flesh.
The DYNAMICS of the HOLY GHOST are ONLY produced by PRAYER. "--but prayer- without ceasing"
It is the "PRAYER FACTOR" which makes the difference in the impossible situations we face.
If we are going to see the miracle working Power of God--
SOMEONE HAS GOT TO START PRAYING.
Ezek 22:30 I looked for a man (who would BE AN INTERCESSOR.)
My ministry is not what I am DOING-- It is, primarily, what I am BEING--
The important thing is not "THE WORK OF GOD", but --THE GOD OF THE WORK". We must prevail on God to arise and give us the "bread" which we MUST HAVE.
1 Tim 2:1 FIRST OF ALL-- (MOST IMPORTANT).
What is the purpose of prayer? If He is absolute Sovereign, why pray? Wesley said, "God does nothing on earth except in answer to prayer."
ONLY MAN, OF ALL CREATION, HAS A WILL, TO OBEY, OR TO DISOBEY. WE ARE REBELS.
Prayer justifies Divine Intervention in the life of rebels.
When we pray,"Thy Will Be Done", it gives God permission to over rule our own desires-- to SUPERIMPOSE HIMSELF upon us, as well as others for whom we pray. "Thy Will" is a safe way to pray.
We can do nothing without His Will. We do not "call the shots." He will never "obey" us. "Not my will, but Thine."
Yet, He will do nothing in our lives without our will. Unless we give Him permission to SUPERIMPOSE HIMSELF upon us, There is no way we can know the blessing of walking with Him.
Oh, how much we need to repent of the multitude of ways and times we walk in our own ways, following the leadings of our own natures, which are rebellious to God. Walking the path of rebellion is the most natural thing we can do. Walking in an attitude of repentance is an absolute "MUST".
If we are to see God work again in our churches, we will have to begin begging Him to return to our midst in the power of His Spirit.
OUR METHODS ARE KILLING US.
Gen 19:27 God REMBERED ABRAHM, and SAVED LOT.
LORD, GIVE US INTERCESSORS.
I Timothy 2:1, 2 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.
It seems a little odd to me that the things Paul put the most EMPHASIS on are the ones we bestow the most NEGLECT on. It would appear that we are satisfied to have held another service, sung some more songs, and greeted each other in a friendly way. Then we return to our normal way of life until next Sunday (Morning), when we repeat the process all over again.
"HOLDING CHURCH DOESN'T CUT IT". The Spiritual condition continues to decline, and no one seems to notice. Or if they do notice, they are too engrossed in their own ways to do anything about it-- even in their own lives.
Jesus, angered at conditions in the Temple, vehemently declared, "MY HOUSE shall be called a HOUSE OF PRAYER." Today, in a similar fashion, we have corrupted His House with:
--PROGRAMS of our own ingenuity, hoping that God will add His Blessing to them. HE DOES NOT.
--PERSONALITY PARADES, men projecting themselves, their own abilities, rather than being the humble servants of Jesus Christ, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. THEY FAIL.
--WARDROBES AND POSSESSIONS. Church has largely become a fashion show. A RELIGIOUS CLUB HOUSE.
These things are more of a detriment than a blessing.
There are three ingredients that are necessary. They are:
PRAISE, PRAYER, PREACHING.
Of the three, prayer is probably the most neglected in our churches because it is difficult to bring ourselves down in humiliation before God in supplication (begging). No one likes to BEG anyone for anything. But that is what the word means.
Prayers and intercessions are costly activities in terms of time and effort. They do not gratify the flesh.
The DYNAMICS of the HOLY GHOST are ONLY produced by PRAYER. "--but prayer- without ceasing"
It is the "PRAYER FACTOR" which makes the difference in the impossible situations we face.
If we are going to see the miracle working Power of God--
SOMEONE HAS GOT TO START PRAYING.
Ezek 22:30 I looked for a man (who would BE AN INTERCESSOR.)
My ministry is not what I am DOING-- It is, primarily, what I am BEING--
The important thing is not "THE WORK OF GOD", but --THE GOD OF THE WORK". We must prevail on God to arise and give us the "bread" which we MUST HAVE.
1 Tim 2:1 FIRST OF ALL-- (MOST IMPORTANT).
What is the purpose of prayer? If He is absolute Sovereign, why pray? Wesley said, "God does nothing on earth except in answer to prayer."
ONLY MAN, OF ALL CREATION, HAS A WILL, TO OBEY, OR TO DISOBEY. WE ARE REBELS.
Prayer justifies Divine Intervention in the life of rebels.
When we pray,"Thy Will Be Done", it gives God permission to over rule our own desires-- to SUPERIMPOSE HIMSELF upon us, as well as others for whom we pray. "Thy Will" is a safe way to pray.
We can do nothing without His Will. We do not "call the shots." He will never "obey" us. "Not my will, but Thine."
Yet, He will do nothing in our lives without our will. Unless we give Him permission to SUPERIMPOSE HIMSELF upon us, There is no way we can know the blessing of walking with Him.
Oh, how much we need to repent of the multitude of ways and times we walk in our own ways, following the leadings of our own natures, which are rebellious to God. Walking the path of rebellion is the most natural thing we can do. Walking in an attitude of repentance is an absolute "MUST".
If we are to see God work again in our churches, we will have to begin begging Him to return to our midst in the power of His Spirit.
OUR METHODS ARE KILLING US.
Gen 19:27 God REMBERED ABRAHM, and SAVED LOT.
LORD, GIVE US INTERCESSORS.
PRIORITIES
PRIORITIES
Last night I was reading Romans 11:33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable [are] his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
My attention was drawn to the word "judgments". More often than not, we think of punishment or the metering out of justice when we see the word. But SUCH IS NOT THE CASE in the majority of places where the word is used.
A word which would more properly convey the true meaning to us today is the word "evaluate", or to place in proper order. We see it take place every Fall at the Fair, where the animals and exhibits are "judged" (evaluated, placed in proper order).
Paul was exclaming happily that God's prioritizing is "unsearchable". Humanity can not find fault with it. God knows the true value and meaning of everything which concerns us. We don't.
Psalms 26:2 Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart. Psalms 19:12 Who can understand [his] errors? cleanse thou me from secret [faults].
If and when we yield our lives completely to His Control, we become the beneficiaries of His Judgments-- His priorities-- His evaluations in our lives.
Luke 16:15 And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly ESTEEMED among men is ABOMINATION in the sight of God.
Proverbs 14:12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof [are] the ways of death.
We can not, we DARE NOT trust our own understanding and vision when we make decisions about the direction our lives will take. Life's shores are littered with the "hulls" of people who have "hit the rocks" while "self-steering" their lives. Their "sense of direction" was faulty because they had not received the counsel of the Lord. Proverbs 28:26 He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.
The verse also says that "His Ways are past finding out". The fact sheet of the world will not provide you with a safe course for your life. But God will, if we ask Him, lead us in ways which we do not understand, and bring us to His appointed Will for our lives.
He is not obligated to explain His choices to those involved in His directives for their lives. He is Sovereign, if we will allow Him to be.
Psalms 139:24 And see if [there be any] wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Lamentations 3:40 Let us search and try our ways, and turn again to the LORD.
Last night I was reading Romans 11:33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable [are] his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
My attention was drawn to the word "judgments". More often than not, we think of punishment or the metering out of justice when we see the word. But SUCH IS NOT THE CASE in the majority of places where the word is used.
A word which would more properly convey the true meaning to us today is the word "evaluate", or to place in proper order. We see it take place every Fall at the Fair, where the animals and exhibits are "judged" (evaluated, placed in proper order).
Paul was exclaming happily that God's prioritizing is "unsearchable". Humanity can not find fault with it. God knows the true value and meaning of everything which concerns us. We don't.
Psalms 26:2 Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart. Psalms 19:12 Who can understand [his] errors? cleanse thou me from secret [faults].
If and when we yield our lives completely to His Control, we become the beneficiaries of His Judgments-- His priorities-- His evaluations in our lives.
Luke 16:15 And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly ESTEEMED among men is ABOMINATION in the sight of God.
Proverbs 14:12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof [are] the ways of death.
We can not, we DARE NOT trust our own understanding and vision when we make decisions about the direction our lives will take. Life's shores are littered with the "hulls" of people who have "hit the rocks" while "self-steering" their lives. Their "sense of direction" was faulty because they had not received the counsel of the Lord. Proverbs 28:26 He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.
The verse also says that "His Ways are past finding out". The fact sheet of the world will not provide you with a safe course for your life. But God will, if we ask Him, lead us in ways which we do not understand, and bring us to His appointed Will for our lives.
He is not obligated to explain His choices to those involved in His directives for their lives. He is Sovereign, if we will allow Him to be.
Psalms 139:24 And see if [there be any] wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Lamentations 3:40 Let us search and try our ways, and turn again to the LORD.
Friday, November 16, 2007
SUCCESS
SUCCESS
Someone has said that SUCCESS happens when PREPARATION meets OPPORTUNITY. This may be more than just a catchy phrase.
Another has said that we are only young once, but if we use it right, once is enough.
There are some things you only get one chance to do in your lifetime. Our preparation is very crucial. The Psalmist gives a guideline for our preparation. Psalms 119:9 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed [thereto] according to thy word.
A story is told of Capt. Eddie Rickenbacker, the flying ace of the first World War. Those early machine guns would occasionally jam, due to shell casings being a bit too large or out of round. An aviator without an operating machine gun was in real trouble-- a "sitting duck", as the saying goes.
While other fliers were resting between flights, Eddie was out in his plane-- testing EVERY SHELL issued to him for his next flight-- to make SURE it would fit into the chamber. Any that would not, were thrown away.
That little maneuver contributed to his success as an Aviator, and to his success in civilian life later. He habitually did his best to eliminate the odds in every aspect of his life.
Steel rails are worth, in narmal times, about thirty dollars a ton. But, that same ton of steel,when put through a series of refining processes, and made into watch springs, can be worth as much as a million dollars.
The same is true of our Spiritual lives, as well as our natural lives. We can be content to be of such a value that people can ride on us, or we can develop our potential to the point where we can run the whole works.
Someone has said that SUCCESS happens when PREPARATION meets OPPORTUNITY. This may be more than just a catchy phrase.
Another has said that we are only young once, but if we use it right, once is enough.
There are some things you only get one chance to do in your lifetime. Our preparation is very crucial. The Psalmist gives a guideline for our preparation. Psalms 119:9 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed [thereto] according to thy word.
A story is told of Capt. Eddie Rickenbacker, the flying ace of the first World War. Those early machine guns would occasionally jam, due to shell casings being a bit too large or out of round. An aviator without an operating machine gun was in real trouble-- a "sitting duck", as the saying goes.
While other fliers were resting between flights, Eddie was out in his plane-- testing EVERY SHELL issued to him for his next flight-- to make SURE it would fit into the chamber. Any that would not, were thrown away.
That little maneuver contributed to his success as an Aviator, and to his success in civilian life later. He habitually did his best to eliminate the odds in every aspect of his life.
Steel rails are worth, in narmal times, about thirty dollars a ton. But, that same ton of steel,when put through a series of refining processes, and made into watch springs, can be worth as much as a million dollars.
The same is true of our Spiritual lives, as well as our natural lives. We can be content to be of such a value that people can ride on us, or we can develop our potential to the point where we can run the whole works.
JONAH
JONAH
Here are a few random thoughts about Jonah, and our similarity to him on occasions.
Jonah, by his own words, would have rather seen God destroy the many thousands of people of Nineveh than to have his reputation as a Prophet of God tarnished. Think of it! Thousands of souls about to be plunged into hell, and Jonah was reluctant to risk his reputation as a Prophet in order to have them saved! Personal esteem ranked higher in his mind than the souls of thousands.
He knew there would be no fine stories to bring back home and tell to the other prophets of how God had brought to pass what he had prophesied.
To come home with a report of how God had shown them mercy would be of no personal value to Jonah. To be rated as a false prophet would be worse than to sit and watch while unwarned people were hurled to their doom. How selfish and carnal can a person be?
But wait a minute before we are too harsh on Jonah. Most of us have done the same thing at some time or other in our lives.
How many times, do you suppose, has there been someone in the congregation who needed a word from the the Lord, and you were anointed of God to give an utterance which might not have made sense to you personally? How often do you refuse to risk your reputation? How many times do you force other people to plod wearily along without the help that your obedience to the Spirit might afford them?
Here is another thought! Everyone knows that a dividing spirit in a congregation is like a rotten apple in a box of good ones.
Spiritual unity is one of the most important things each assembly must maintain, for in its absence Satan can move in and cripple or kill at his own pleasure. Yet it is a glaring fact that many times two or more people in a congregation will come to logger-heads over some trivial thing, and each one refuse to budge even an inch toward reconciliation.
Each one contends in his heart that he is right, and therefore has a reason for standing "pat". It is also true that each one will maintain his position while the rest of the congregation chooses up sides and start fighting over first one thing and then another.
The unity of the congregation has been sacrificed for personal esteem.
Sometimes unity is sacrificed over whether our particular brand of "truth" is being presented--while souls are headed for hell.
Other times unity is sacrificed over our approval, or dis-approval of the format of worship, and souls are lost.
That is all Jonah was planning to do.
--Marion Fretwell
Here are a few random thoughts about Jonah, and our similarity to him on occasions.
Jonah, by his own words, would have rather seen God destroy the many thousands of people of Nineveh than to have his reputation as a Prophet of God tarnished. Think of it! Thousands of souls about to be plunged into hell, and Jonah was reluctant to risk his reputation as a Prophet in order to have them saved! Personal esteem ranked higher in his mind than the souls of thousands.
He knew there would be no fine stories to bring back home and tell to the other prophets of how God had brought to pass what he had prophesied.
To come home with a report of how God had shown them mercy would be of no personal value to Jonah. To be rated as a false prophet would be worse than to sit and watch while unwarned people were hurled to their doom. How selfish and carnal can a person be?
But wait a minute before we are too harsh on Jonah. Most of us have done the same thing at some time or other in our lives.
How many times, do you suppose, has there been someone in the congregation who needed a word from the the Lord, and you were anointed of God to give an utterance which might not have made sense to you personally? How often do you refuse to risk your reputation? How many times do you force other people to plod wearily along without the help that your obedience to the Spirit might afford them?
Here is another thought! Everyone knows that a dividing spirit in a congregation is like a rotten apple in a box of good ones.
Spiritual unity is one of the most important things each assembly must maintain, for in its absence Satan can move in and cripple or kill at his own pleasure. Yet it is a glaring fact that many times two or more people in a congregation will come to logger-heads over some trivial thing, and each one refuse to budge even an inch toward reconciliation.
Each one contends in his heart that he is right, and therefore has a reason for standing "pat". It is also true that each one will maintain his position while the rest of the congregation chooses up sides and start fighting over first one thing and then another.
The unity of the congregation has been sacrificed for personal esteem.
Sometimes unity is sacrificed over whether our particular brand of "truth" is being presented--while souls are headed for hell.
Other times unity is sacrificed over our approval, or dis-approval of the format of worship, and souls are lost.
That is all Jonah was planning to do.
--Marion Fretwell
Saturday, November 10, 2007
WHO IS THIS ___ PHILISTINE?
WHO IS THIS UNCIRCUMCISED PHILISTINE?
I Samuel 17:26 And David spake to the men that stood by him, saying,.... for who [is] this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?
Jesse had sent his youngest son with some supplies for his three oldest brothers who were with King Saul in a war with the Philistines. Jesse and David had not known that for 40 days there had been no fighting done. Instead, the giant Goliath had appeared daily with a bellowed challenge to Saul's army. If they would send only one man to fight with him, each man would fight for the respective army. The winner takes all.
It looked like a "lead pipe cinch" for the Palestinians. Their man was "bigger and better" than any which Israel could produce. It is always that way.
David found the soldiers terrified with fear. They knew they were doomed, but were going to "put it off" as long as they could. Nobody did anything, aside from wringing their hands, or biting their finger nails.
Fear has a paralyzing effect on people. Saul and the army had been in its vice-like grip for over a month.
I can hear those soldiers murmuring among themselves.
"They're gonna forbid us to hold Church services one of these days."
"They're gonna confiscate and burn our Bibles pretty soon."
"They're gonna force us into a cashless society, and we'll have to have a mark or a number to buy groceries. It'll be a tattoo mark, or a computer chip under our skin. The mmmaarkk of the bbbeast-- shhhure as annnythhing."
"Antichrist is gonna come and "sweet talk" us into following him. Then he'll double cross us after three and a half years, and we'll really be in trouble."
"The Sun's having Super Novas, and is about to burn out and go cold and dark. What'll we do then?
"The earth is wobbling on its axis right now, and the orbit is going egg-shape already."
"Boys, we might as well "call a spade a spade", and admit we're done. The only thing that'll save us now is for some force to come and snatch us out of here to keep us from being annihilated."
But, David hadn't heard about those things. He'd been out with the sheep, singing, worshiping God. He had experienced the Power of God enabling him to kill a bear, then a lion. He has learned to sling a stone into a "bull's eye" at fifty feet. He had learned what Faith in God could do. God was BIG, in David's eyes.
His God is invincible. His God will vindicate His Name. David's God will deliver His People in answer to their faith in Him. David will act on his faith, and attack the giant.
David doesn't know about the wobbling earth. He doesn't know about the Super Novas. He doesn't know-- he hasn't been told-- about antichrist, or the cashless society, or the "great tribulation" and the embedded computer chips.
David knows his God in a deeper dimension than the trained warriors do. He depends upon God's power instead of weapons fashioned and used by man. He isn't bogged down by teachings about doomsday and defeat. His faith is in the ability of his God, and the honor of His Name.
Any one of those soldiers could have whipped Goliath if their faith had been in God instead of themselves, and their weapons. Petitions, Marches, and Drives will not stop giants.
Who are these people and forces that we are afraid of today? Most of them are no more than "paper tigers" on stakes along the side of the path. They are not real, never have been, never will be.
Can even the real ones successfully defy our God and His people?
Not if our trust is in the right place.
I Samuel 17:26 And David spake to the men that stood by him, saying,.... for who [is] this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?
Jesse had sent his youngest son with some supplies for his three oldest brothers who were with King Saul in a war with the Philistines. Jesse and David had not known that for 40 days there had been no fighting done. Instead, the giant Goliath had appeared daily with a bellowed challenge to Saul's army. If they would send only one man to fight with him, each man would fight for the respective army. The winner takes all.
It looked like a "lead pipe cinch" for the Palestinians. Their man was "bigger and better" than any which Israel could produce. It is always that way.
David found the soldiers terrified with fear. They knew they were doomed, but were going to "put it off" as long as they could. Nobody did anything, aside from wringing their hands, or biting their finger nails.
Fear has a paralyzing effect on people. Saul and the army had been in its vice-like grip for over a month.
I can hear those soldiers murmuring among themselves.
"They're gonna forbid us to hold Church services one of these days."
"They're gonna confiscate and burn our Bibles pretty soon."
"They're gonna force us into a cashless society, and we'll have to have a mark or a number to buy groceries. It'll be a tattoo mark, or a computer chip under our skin. The mmmaarkk of the bbbeast-- shhhure as annnythhing."
"Antichrist is gonna come and "sweet talk" us into following him. Then he'll double cross us after three and a half years, and we'll really be in trouble."
"The Sun's having Super Novas, and is about to burn out and go cold and dark. What'll we do then?
"The earth is wobbling on its axis right now, and the orbit is going egg-shape already."
"Boys, we might as well "call a spade a spade", and admit we're done. The only thing that'll save us now is for some force to come and snatch us out of here to keep us from being annihilated."
But, David hadn't heard about those things. He'd been out with the sheep, singing, worshiping God. He had experienced the Power of God enabling him to kill a bear, then a lion. He has learned to sling a stone into a "bull's eye" at fifty feet. He had learned what Faith in God could do. God was BIG, in David's eyes.
His God is invincible. His God will vindicate His Name. David's God will deliver His People in answer to their faith in Him. David will act on his faith, and attack the giant.
David doesn't know about the wobbling earth. He doesn't know about the Super Novas. He doesn't know-- he hasn't been told-- about antichrist, or the cashless society, or the "great tribulation" and the embedded computer chips.
David knows his God in a deeper dimension than the trained warriors do. He depends upon God's power instead of weapons fashioned and used by man. He isn't bogged down by teachings about doomsday and defeat. His faith is in the ability of his God, and the honor of His Name.
Any one of those soldiers could have whipped Goliath if their faith had been in God instead of themselves, and their weapons. Petitions, Marches, and Drives will not stop giants.
Who are these people and forces that we are afraid of today? Most of them are no more than "paper tigers" on stakes along the side of the path. They are not real, never have been, never will be.
Can even the real ones successfully defy our God and His people?
Not if our trust is in the right place.
Tuesday, November 06, 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. 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 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 Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost. 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. 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 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 Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost. 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.
THE RIVER OF GOD
THE RIVER OF GOD
I know I have written about this before, but it seems to keep coming to me this morning, so I will touch base with it again.
The point which seems to want the limelight right now is found in Ezekiel, chapter 47. It tells about waters issuing out of the House of God-- coming from the right side of the Altar. I grew and grew as it progressed down the hill on its 12 mile journey. Before it was half way to its destination, it had grown to a river which could not be passed over-- "waters to swim in".
Ezekiel 47:5 Afterward he measured a thousand; [and it was] a river that I could not pass over: for the waters were risen, waters to swim in, a river that could not be passed over.
Most scholars agree that this prophecy is talking about an outpouring of the Spirit of God in the end time of this dispensation. We are probably correct in this interpretation is in line with what Jesus said about the the believer having a river of living water springing up unto Everlasting Life. See John 7:38 and John 4:14
There are other scriptures which speak about the river of refreshing which is to be expected from the Lord.
Psalms 46:4 [There is] a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy [place] of the tabernacles of the most High.
Psalms 65:9 Thou visitest the earth, and waterest it: thou greatly enrichest it with the river of God, [which] is full of water: thou preparest them corn, when thou hast so provided for it.
A few years ago, I was looking at the river found in Eze 47, and made a remarkable discovery from the Word.
THESE WATERS HAVE A DEFINITE DESTINATION AND A DEFINITE PURPOSE.
Ezekiel 47:8 Then said he unto me, These waters issue out toward the east country, AND GO DOWN INTO THE DESERT, AND GO INTO THE SEA: [which being] brought forth into the sea, THE WATERS SHALL BE HEALED.
The first purpose is to bring life to the desert. It will do that.
The second purpose is to heal the waters of the Dead Sea. We all know that nothing lives in the Dead Sea. No plants, no fish, no animals. Romans 7:18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but [how] to perform that which is good I find not.
What a fitting way for the Lord to portray the "deadness" of humanity. Absolute depravity. Absolute helplessness to produce anything good. All life ceases at its borders. The "Black Hole" of life.
But God! But God has a plan in mind that can and will bring that condition to an end.
According to the Prophet, all of the Dead Sea but a few-- Ezekiel 47:11 But the miry places thereof and the marishes thereof shall not be healed; they shall be given to salt.
No, not EVERY ONE will respond to the Spirit of the Lord when it is poured out as a DELUGE upon humanity. But God intends to snatch a generation or two from the kingdom of death, into the Kingdom of Life-- from the kingdom of darkness to the Kingdom of Light-- from the kingdom of error to the Kingdom of Truth-- from the kingdom of sin to the Kingdom of Righteousness.
Isaiah 11:9 They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.
Habakkuk 2:14 For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.
God WILL have the last word.
I know I have written about this before, but it seems to keep coming to me this morning, so I will touch base with it again.
The point which seems to want the limelight right now is found in Ezekiel, chapter 47. It tells about waters issuing out of the House of God-- coming from the right side of the Altar. I grew and grew as it progressed down the hill on its 12 mile journey. Before it was half way to its destination, it had grown to a river which could not be passed over-- "waters to swim in".
Ezekiel 47:5 Afterward he measured a thousand; [and it was] a river that I could not pass over: for the waters were risen, waters to swim in, a river that could not be passed over.
Most scholars agree that this prophecy is talking about an outpouring of the Spirit of God in the end time of this dispensation. We are probably correct in this interpretation is in line with what Jesus said about the the believer having a river of living water springing up unto Everlasting Life. See John 7:38 and John 4:14
There are other scriptures which speak about the river of refreshing which is to be expected from the Lord.
Psalms 46:4 [There is] a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy [place] of the tabernacles of the most High.
Psalms 65:9 Thou visitest the earth, and waterest it: thou greatly enrichest it with the river of God, [which] is full of water: thou preparest them corn, when thou hast so provided for it.
A few years ago, I was looking at the river found in Eze 47, and made a remarkable discovery from the Word.
THESE WATERS HAVE A DEFINITE DESTINATION AND A DEFINITE PURPOSE.
Ezekiel 47:8 Then said he unto me, These waters issue out toward the east country, AND GO DOWN INTO THE DESERT, AND GO INTO THE SEA: [which being] brought forth into the sea, THE WATERS SHALL BE HEALED.
The first purpose is to bring life to the desert. It will do that.
The second purpose is to heal the waters of the Dead Sea. We all know that nothing lives in the Dead Sea. No plants, no fish, no animals. Romans 7:18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but [how] to perform that which is good I find not.
What a fitting way for the Lord to portray the "deadness" of humanity. Absolute depravity. Absolute helplessness to produce anything good. All life ceases at its borders. The "Black Hole" of life.
But God! But God has a plan in mind that can and will bring that condition to an end.
According to the Prophet, all of the Dead Sea but a few-- Ezekiel 47:11 But the miry places thereof and the marishes thereof shall not be healed; they shall be given to salt.
No, not EVERY ONE will respond to the Spirit of the Lord when it is poured out as a DELUGE upon humanity. But God intends to snatch a generation or two from the kingdom of death, into the Kingdom of Life-- from the kingdom of darkness to the Kingdom of Light-- from the kingdom of error to the Kingdom of Truth-- from the kingdom of sin to the Kingdom of Righteousness.
Isaiah 11:9 They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.
Habakkuk 2:14 For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.
God WILL have the last word.
Monday, November 05, 2007
REASONS FOR MY BELIEF
REASONS TO BELIEVE
I believe that your question was an honest one-- not looking for debate, so I will hurriedly answer, not laboring any proof. I will be out of town for a few days, but will check again when I return.
Perhaps the best way to explain my belief is to tell how it came about.
In the late forties, I did an in-depth study of the seven promises to the Overcomers of the seven Churches of Asia. In doing this, I discovered that our former teachers had not been able to steer us in the right course of believing-- especially about the whole group of believers being eligible for the great victory which is ahead for the Overcomers of the seven Churches.
Darby, who started the "Rapture" theory in the mid 1800's, included ALL believers in what he saw. But a careful study will show that Darby was wrong on some points.
A deeper study showed me that the general usage of the Greek word that is used in 2 Thes, and translated "taken out of the way", is a gross mis-application of the Greek words.
It was in the 70's that I was teaching from Hebrews, and discovered that the writer used up several chapters discussing the events of the most solemn day of the Jewish Levitical Year-- the Day of Atonement.
I discovered that the ceremonies of that day were a blue print of the major events of the entire Church age-- from the Crucifixion to the present and beyond. To follow the events of the Day of Atonement is to see the high points of the Church Age. Two or three points stand out in bold relief.
Every seven years, on this day, debts were cancelled, and servants who had sold themselves because of poverty were sent home again. I won't go into the implications of this.
Every fifty years, on this day, all possessions were restored to the original owner or his children,and to the original tribe. This speaks of a FULL redemption and restoration of ALL that was lost in Adam. Think of how much was lost-- Adam had Eternal Life (but not Immortality), and could talk freely with God, and God with him. He HAD dominion over all creatures.
The ceremony of the Scapegoat was not until AFTER the High Priest was finished with the ministration in the Holy of Holies. It was the scapegoat which acted out the part of Jesus taking Sin completely away from us. But the real work of Jesus in removing Sin (Adamic Sin, that is) from us is yet to come, if we follow the course of events on the Day of Atonement.
Our High Priest is STILL IN the Heavenly Holy of Holies. Weymouth, and some other modern translations render Heb 9:28 -- "not to deal with sin, but to make their salvation complete." This is speaking of when our High Priest APPEARS from His Ministrations in the Heavenly Holy of Holies.
If you want an interesting study, look at the three (3) appearings of Jesus, as found in the book of Hebrews.
A whisking away to escape anihilation is, in no sense of the word, Redemption from the Fall of Adam.
The nature of rebellion was injected into Adam at the time of disobedience. We are ALL REBELS TOWARD GOD, even though we are saved from the consequences of sin.
More later, if you are still interested.
God Bless
I believe that your question was an honest one-- not looking for debate, so I will hurriedly answer, not laboring any proof. I will be out of town for a few days, but will check again when I return.
Perhaps the best way to explain my belief is to tell how it came about.
In the late forties, I did an in-depth study of the seven promises to the Overcomers of the seven Churches of Asia. In doing this, I discovered that our former teachers had not been able to steer us in the right course of believing-- especially about the whole group of believers being eligible for the great victory which is ahead for the Overcomers of the seven Churches.
Darby, who started the "Rapture" theory in the mid 1800's, included ALL believers in what he saw. But a careful study will show that Darby was wrong on some points.
A deeper study showed me that the general usage of the Greek word that is used in 2 Thes, and translated "taken out of the way", is a gross mis-application of the Greek words.
It was in the 70's that I was teaching from Hebrews, and discovered that the writer used up several chapters discussing the events of the most solemn day of the Jewish Levitical Year-- the Day of Atonement.
I discovered that the ceremonies of that day were a blue print of the major events of the entire Church age-- from the Crucifixion to the present and beyond. To follow the events of the Day of Atonement is to see the high points of the Church Age. Two or three points stand out in bold relief.
Every seven years, on this day, debts were cancelled, and servants who had sold themselves because of poverty were sent home again. I won't go into the implications of this.
Every fifty years, on this day, all possessions were restored to the original owner or his children,and to the original tribe. This speaks of a FULL redemption and restoration of ALL that was lost in Adam. Think of how much was lost-- Adam had Eternal Life (but not Immortality), and could talk freely with God, and God with him. He HAD dominion over all creatures.
The ceremony of the Scapegoat was not until AFTER the High Priest was finished with the ministration in the Holy of Holies. It was the scapegoat which acted out the part of Jesus taking Sin completely away from us. But the real work of Jesus in removing Sin (Adamic Sin, that is) from us is yet to come, if we follow the course of events on the Day of Atonement.
Our High Priest is STILL IN the Heavenly Holy of Holies. Weymouth, and some other modern translations render Heb 9:28 -- "not to deal with sin, but to make their salvation complete." This is speaking of when our High Priest APPEARS from His Ministrations in the Heavenly Holy of Holies.
If you want an interesting study, look at the three (3) appearings of Jesus, as found in the book of Hebrews.
A whisking away to escape anihilation is, in no sense of the word, Redemption from the Fall of Adam.
The nature of rebellion was injected into Adam at the time of disobedience. We are ALL REBELS TOWARD GOD, even though we are saved from the consequences of sin.
More later, if you are still interested.
God Bless
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
