KEEPING OUR GARMENTS
An old story I heard when a very young minister keeps surfacing in my mind... usually a sign that someone to whom I minister is needing encouragement along certain lines.
The story is about the system of the Temple Guards, who were on duty night and day by the time David turned the Kingdom over to Solomon.
Either by decree, or by a custom that developed gradually, any guard who was caught asleep during his watch could be stripped of his clothing by the person who found him sleeping on the job. We hope there were barrels close at hand, which the sleeping guard could use while walking home.
It would appear, from the fact that the Spirit seemed to mention the custom or decree in the writings of John the revelator, that the Lord was not opposed to such a practice.
We read in Revelation 16:15 Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed [is] he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame. It would appear that this refers to a sleeping Temple guard.
To be naked in public is very shameful, and is to be avoided vigorously. Oddly enough, however, it was once a part of a religious rite. We read in Exodus 32:25 And when Moses saw that the people [were] naked; (for Aaron had made them naked unto [their] shame among their enemies:) The setting was at the time of the making of the golden calf while Moses was on Mt. Sinai receiving the Law.
Another scripture which has a bearing upon the subject is Proverbs 29:18 Where [there is] no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy [is] he. The word which is translated "perish" is more correctly translated in other languages "cast off restraint." The key thought is that people are prone to "live carelessly" as they lose the vision of holiness and purity before God.
Though a people may be completely covered by clothing, they can be naked in spirit by the lifestyle they have adopted... that of failing to esteem the holiness and purity of a Godly life. Other interests have been allowed to crowd righteousness and integrity into the back ground.
We read in Revelation 3:17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:
We find the recommended remedy for the condition in Revelation 3:18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and [that] the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
I Thessalonians 5:6 Therefore let us not sleep, as [do] others; but let us watch and be sober.
Thursday, August 31, 2006
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
IN OR OUT
IN OR OUT
When I was a young man, recently graduated from High School, I was working on a farm northeast of Notus, ID., earning $40.00 a month plus board and room (a tent house).
I had spent a day or more cultivating a field of onions with a horse drawn cultivator. As I was returning to the barn after the job was finished, I watched the rows as I passed them. They looked so clean and neat-- until. Until, that is, I spotted a green spot in the middle of one of the rows, about a hundred feet from the end.
I stopped to investigate, and found a young tumble weed still growing. A small portion of the root system was still attached to the ground-- enough to keep the weed alive. A little water coming down the furrow would have revived it completely.
I remember thinking at the time that this was sort of like our walk with the Lord. We cannot live in two worlds at the same time. We must make a clean break with what we were before, or there will come a time when it will be revived, and our former way of life will overcome our new way of life.
If we are to be successful in our Christian life, there are some decisions that have to be made. We cannot "halt" between two ways of life. No one will make our choice for us-- it is ours to make. Some choices are tough to make.
There are some issues that have to be settled in our lives. The door to our former life must be closed-- forever.
Lot's wife was physically out of Sodom. Spiritually, she was still in bondage to the things of this life.
Our minds have to be made up. If we allow ourselves to "hanker" after the life we came out of, it is just a matter of time until we are back in it.
Some of our bridges have to be burned behind us.
The old life must be left behind-- forever.
The Bible tells us to "Set your affection on things above." We have been given the ability to do just that. If we neglect to do it, we are headed for Spiritual disaster.
"Choose ye this day."
When I was a young man, recently graduated from High School, I was working on a farm northeast of Notus, ID., earning $40.00 a month plus board and room (a tent house).
I had spent a day or more cultivating a field of onions with a horse drawn cultivator. As I was returning to the barn after the job was finished, I watched the rows as I passed them. They looked so clean and neat-- until. Until, that is, I spotted a green spot in the middle of one of the rows, about a hundred feet from the end.
I stopped to investigate, and found a young tumble weed still growing. A small portion of the root system was still attached to the ground-- enough to keep the weed alive. A little water coming down the furrow would have revived it completely.
I remember thinking at the time that this was sort of like our walk with the Lord. We cannot live in two worlds at the same time. We must make a clean break with what we were before, or there will come a time when it will be revived, and our former way of life will overcome our new way of life.
If we are to be successful in our Christian life, there are some decisions that have to be made. We cannot "halt" between two ways of life. No one will make our choice for us-- it is ours to make. Some choices are tough to make.
There are some issues that have to be settled in our lives. The door to our former life must be closed-- forever.
Lot's wife was physically out of Sodom. Spiritually, she was still in bondage to the things of this life.
Our minds have to be made up. If we allow ourselves to "hanker" after the life we came out of, it is just a matter of time until we are back in it.
Some of our bridges have to be burned behind us.
The old life must be left behind-- forever.
The Bible tells us to "Set your affection on things above." We have been given the ability to do just that. If we neglect to do it, we are headed for Spiritual disaster.
"Choose ye this day."
THE YEAR OF JUBILEE
THE YEAR OF JUBILEE
For almost as long as I can remember, I have heard about the Year of Jubilee. But I have to confess that it didn't mean much to me until the Lord captured my thinking and directed it to an in-depth study of the seven feasts of the Levitical year.
This Levitical year was a seven-month space of time within the regular year of twelve or thirteen months, as the case might have been. It ALWAYS started at a certain phase of the Moon, and ALWAYS in the Spring of the year. There were seven distinct events which had to be observed by the people-- each at the exact time decreed by the Lord alone.
Of these seven events, there was one which was the most solemn and awesome of them all. It was the Day Of Atonement. The events of this day were required to be very precise, for the life of the high priest was at risk if anything went wrong.
Leviticus 25:9 Then shalt thou cause the trumpet of the jubile to sound on the tenth [day] of the seventh month, IN THE DAY OF ATONEMENT shall ye MAKE THE TRUMPET SOUND throughout all your land.
It became the most ANTICIPATED, and also the most DREADED day of the year once every fifty years.
ANTICIPATED, by those who had suffered misfortune and hardship during the fifty preceding years. If they had been forced into servitude or mortgage, the servitude was cancelled, and the mortgage annulled on this Day of Atonement. They were SET FREE FROM BONDAGE.
DREADED, by those who had taken advantage of their neighbor's misfortune, and brought them into servitude and debt in the preceding fifty years. They had to restore all land to it's original owner, and turn all servants free.
IN SHORT, everything was restored to it's original state.
I AM SURE THAT THIS CEREMONY SERVES AS A TYPE OF THE MIGHTY RESTORATION WHICH IS DETERMINED UPON THE CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD!
Leviticus 25:10 And ye shall hallow the fiftieth year, and proclaim liberty throughout [all] the land unto all the inhabitants thereof: it shall be a jubile unto you; and ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.
Leviticus 25:13 In the year of this jubile ye shall return every man unto his possession.
There are, perhaps, more than two applications of this principle of God. But I want to draw your attention to a couple that stand out in my mind.
FIRST, a look at the group of people who are referred to as The Church of the Living God. If we compare what it was at it's beginning with what it is now-- brother, sister, we are in deep, hard bondage. We are horribly impoverished. And I wish not to go into the details of our impoverishment and shame, except to affirm that it exists. You know it, as well as I do.
The GOOD NEWS is that RESTORATION lies ahead. NOT BECAUSE WE DESERVE IT, but because of who Jesus is, and what has been decreed to be done. Nothing can stop it.
The ONLY THING we need to be concerned about is our own individual Spiritual condition before Jesus right now. We can MISS IT if we are not diligent about our walk with the Lord. The principle applied to the so-called "rapture" applies here.
Matthew 25:10... and they that were ready went...
SECOND, the broader look at the whole of humanity. When conditions were perfect, Adam failed, and dashed all of humanity into poverty and servitude.
John 8:34 Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.
We are destitute of any good in our humanity, and but for the Grace of God, slaves to our fallen nature.
BUT THIS IS ALSO DESTINED TO BE CHANGED. NOT BY ANYTHING WE CAN DO, but by the MERITS OF JESUS CHRIST, our Redeemer.
THE YEAR OF JUBILEE is close at hand. When it is "signaled in" by the blowing of the trumpet, tremendous changes will take place in the Christian Community, and in individual lives.
But, again, Matthew 25:10... and they that were ready went...
Leviticus 25:9 Then shalt thou cause the trumpet of the jubile to sound on the tenth [day] of the seventh month, in the day of atonement shall ye make the trumpet sound throughout all your land.
Just as the day of the birth of Jesus was determined by God alone, so also the time of the Great Jubilee is determined (already) by God alone.
I know of no way to ascertain just where we are in a 50 year cycle, so I am not making any predictions of any kind. Except, that is, to say that in this year 1995, the Day of Atonement falls on October 4. This is probably NOT THE YEAR. I do not believe the nations are in proper alignment at this time. But that is MY OPINION-- not from any revelation I have.
I do, however, feel it is safe to predict that WHEN THE YEAR OF JUBILE ARRIVES, it will start on the Day of Atonement of that particular year.
Please note that Jesus BECAME our Passover on Passover day in AD 30. Jesus BECAME our Pentecost "When the Day of Pentecost was fully come." That was also AD 30.
We have reason to believe that Jesus will BECOME our Jubile when His DAY OF ATONEMENT is "fully come".
What all does the Day of Atonement hold for those earnest seekers who are "looking for Him?" "They that wait upon the Lord shall...."
For almost as long as I can remember, I have heard about the Year of Jubilee. But I have to confess that it didn't mean much to me until the Lord captured my thinking and directed it to an in-depth study of the seven feasts of the Levitical year.
This Levitical year was a seven-month space of time within the regular year of twelve or thirteen months, as the case might have been. It ALWAYS started at a certain phase of the Moon, and ALWAYS in the Spring of the year. There were seven distinct events which had to be observed by the people-- each at the exact time decreed by the Lord alone.
Of these seven events, there was one which was the most solemn and awesome of them all. It was the Day Of Atonement. The events of this day were required to be very precise, for the life of the high priest was at risk if anything went wrong.
Leviticus 25:9 Then shalt thou cause the trumpet of the jubile to sound on the tenth [day] of the seventh month, IN THE DAY OF ATONEMENT shall ye MAKE THE TRUMPET SOUND throughout all your land.
It became the most ANTICIPATED, and also the most DREADED day of the year once every fifty years.
ANTICIPATED, by those who had suffered misfortune and hardship during the fifty preceding years. If they had been forced into servitude or mortgage, the servitude was cancelled, and the mortgage annulled on this Day of Atonement. They were SET FREE FROM BONDAGE.
DREADED, by those who had taken advantage of their neighbor's misfortune, and brought them into servitude and debt in the preceding fifty years. They had to restore all land to it's original owner, and turn all servants free.
IN SHORT, everything was restored to it's original state.
I AM SURE THAT THIS CEREMONY SERVES AS A TYPE OF THE MIGHTY RESTORATION WHICH IS DETERMINED UPON THE CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD!
Leviticus 25:10 And ye shall hallow the fiftieth year, and proclaim liberty throughout [all] the land unto all the inhabitants thereof: it shall be a jubile unto you; and ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.
Leviticus 25:13 In the year of this jubile ye shall return every man unto his possession.
There are, perhaps, more than two applications of this principle of God. But I want to draw your attention to a couple that stand out in my mind.
FIRST, a look at the group of people who are referred to as The Church of the Living God. If we compare what it was at it's beginning with what it is now-- brother, sister, we are in deep, hard bondage. We are horribly impoverished. And I wish not to go into the details of our impoverishment and shame, except to affirm that it exists. You know it, as well as I do.
The GOOD NEWS is that RESTORATION lies ahead. NOT BECAUSE WE DESERVE IT, but because of who Jesus is, and what has been decreed to be done. Nothing can stop it.
The ONLY THING we need to be concerned about is our own individual Spiritual condition before Jesus right now. We can MISS IT if we are not diligent about our walk with the Lord. The principle applied to the so-called "rapture" applies here.
Matthew 25:10... and they that were ready went...
SECOND, the broader look at the whole of humanity. When conditions were perfect, Adam failed, and dashed all of humanity into poverty and servitude.
John 8:34 Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.
We are destitute of any good in our humanity, and but for the Grace of God, slaves to our fallen nature.
BUT THIS IS ALSO DESTINED TO BE CHANGED. NOT BY ANYTHING WE CAN DO, but by the MERITS OF JESUS CHRIST, our Redeemer.
THE YEAR OF JUBILEE is close at hand. When it is "signaled in" by the blowing of the trumpet, tremendous changes will take place in the Christian Community, and in individual lives.
But, again, Matthew 25:10... and they that were ready went...
Leviticus 25:9 Then shalt thou cause the trumpet of the jubile to sound on the tenth [day] of the seventh month, in the day of atonement shall ye make the trumpet sound throughout all your land.
Just as the day of the birth of Jesus was determined by God alone, so also the time of the Great Jubilee is determined (already) by God alone.
I know of no way to ascertain just where we are in a 50 year cycle, so I am not making any predictions of any kind. Except, that is, to say that in this year 1995, the Day of Atonement falls on October 4. This is probably NOT THE YEAR. I do not believe the nations are in proper alignment at this time. But that is MY OPINION-- not from any revelation I have.
I do, however, feel it is safe to predict that WHEN THE YEAR OF JUBILE ARRIVES, it will start on the Day of Atonement of that particular year.
Please note that Jesus BECAME our Passover on Passover day in AD 30. Jesus BECAME our Pentecost "When the Day of Pentecost was fully come." That was also AD 30.
We have reason to believe that Jesus will BECOME our Jubile when His DAY OF ATONEMENT is "fully come".
What all does the Day of Atonement hold for those earnest seekers who are "looking for Him?" "They that wait upon the Lord shall...."
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
WHITE FOR WHOM
WHITE FOR WHOM
I did a study several years ago about white raiment, and who is PRIVILEGED TO WEAR IT. The RESULTS ARE INTERESTING, to say the least.
Most of our Holiness folks are making a bad mistake in their teachings about our relationship with Jesus Christ.
The greatest mistake in their teaching is that they do not make a difference between being SAVED (sins forgiven), and becoming a OVERCOMER after experiencing Salvation.
Salvation is a GIFT FROM GOD, and CAN NOT BE WRESTED FROM YOU. No MAN, no SPIRIT, NOR ANY OTHER BEING can rob you of what God has given to you.
And, IF YOU DECIDE TO CHUCK IT, you are going to run into difficulty quite soon. It is HARDER TO DO than one might think. BUT IT CAN BE DONE, BY YOUR DECISION.
NEGLECT DOES NOT DISANNUL IT. Salvation is NOT DEPENDENT upon doing or not doing certain things. What you wear, what you eat, what you say and where you go can have no effect on your Salvation.
This is a bit bewildering to some of us who grew up in a strict atmosphere regarding Christian conduct. It was after much wrestling with Scripture that I finally had to acknowledge the TRUTH WHICH SETS FREE. The Bible mentions the "TRUTH OF THE GOSPEL" IN FOUR PLACES.
The "TRUTH OF THE GOSPEL" is not a set of doctrines nor practices designed to qualify us for acceptance with Jesus. It is the ESTABLISHMENT of a RELATIONSHIP with Jesus. That RELATIONSHIP is DIVINELY ESTABLISHED BY JESUS AT CALVARY.
The "WEARING OF THE WHITE" is, however, quite another aspect of our walk with Jesus, and is affected by our deeds (actions) after we are saved by the blood of Jesus.
WEARING WHITE RAIMENT will be a REWARD for our ACHIEVEMENTS in God after we are saved.
The OVERCOMERS (Rev 2 & 3) can wear WHITE.
Those who attain to BIBLICAL ELDERSHIP can wear it.
Rev 4
Those who have ENDURED GREAT TRIBULATION, and thus washed their robes, can wear it. Rev 7:14
The SPIRITUAL WARRIORS who "ride" with Jesus can wear it. Rev 19:14
But, there is NO PROVISION FOR THE "RUN OF THE MILL" Christian to wear white. They can (finally) make Heaven their home, after the Millenium (rotting in the grave for a thousand years). They WILL NOT RULE AND REIGN WITH JESUS DURING THE THOUSAND YEARS.
Revelation 2:7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that OVERCOMETH will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.
Revelation 2:11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that OVERCOMETH shall not be hurt of the second death.
Revelation 2:17 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that OVERCOMETH will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth [it].
Revelation 2:26 And he that OVERCOMETH, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations:
Revelation 3:5 He that OVERCOMETH, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.
Revelation 3:12 Him that OVERCOMETH will I make a PILLAR IN THE TEMPLE OF MY GOD, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, [which is] new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and [I will write upon him] my new name.
Revelation 3:21 To him that OVERCOMETH will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.
Revelation 21:7 He that OVERCOMETH shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.
We BUY WHITE RAIMENT. Salvation is a GIFT.
Revelation 3:18 I counsel thee to BUY OF ME gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and WHITE RAIMENT, that thou mayest be clothed, and [that] the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
THE REWARD IS WORTH THE EFFORT
I did a study several years ago about white raiment, and who is PRIVILEGED TO WEAR IT. The RESULTS ARE INTERESTING, to say the least.
Most of our Holiness folks are making a bad mistake in their teachings about our relationship with Jesus Christ.
The greatest mistake in their teaching is that they do not make a difference between being SAVED (sins forgiven), and becoming a OVERCOMER after experiencing Salvation.
Salvation is a GIFT FROM GOD, and CAN NOT BE WRESTED FROM YOU. No MAN, no SPIRIT, NOR ANY OTHER BEING can rob you of what God has given to you.
And, IF YOU DECIDE TO CHUCK IT, you are going to run into difficulty quite soon. It is HARDER TO DO than one might think. BUT IT CAN BE DONE, BY YOUR DECISION.
NEGLECT DOES NOT DISANNUL IT. Salvation is NOT DEPENDENT upon doing or not doing certain things. What you wear, what you eat, what you say and where you go can have no effect on your Salvation.
This is a bit bewildering to some of us who grew up in a strict atmosphere regarding Christian conduct. It was after much wrestling with Scripture that I finally had to acknowledge the TRUTH WHICH SETS FREE. The Bible mentions the "TRUTH OF THE GOSPEL" IN FOUR PLACES.
The "TRUTH OF THE GOSPEL" is not a set of doctrines nor practices designed to qualify us for acceptance with Jesus. It is the ESTABLISHMENT of a RELATIONSHIP with Jesus. That RELATIONSHIP is DIVINELY ESTABLISHED BY JESUS AT CALVARY.
The "WEARING OF THE WHITE" is, however, quite another aspect of our walk with Jesus, and is affected by our deeds (actions) after we are saved by the blood of Jesus.
WEARING WHITE RAIMENT will be a REWARD for our ACHIEVEMENTS in God after we are saved.
The OVERCOMERS (Rev 2 & 3) can wear WHITE.
Those who attain to BIBLICAL ELDERSHIP can wear it.
Rev 4
Those who have ENDURED GREAT TRIBULATION, and thus washed their robes, can wear it. Rev 7:14
The SPIRITUAL WARRIORS who "ride" with Jesus can wear it. Rev 19:14
But, there is NO PROVISION FOR THE "RUN OF THE MILL" Christian to wear white. They can (finally) make Heaven their home, after the Millenium (rotting in the grave for a thousand years). They WILL NOT RULE AND REIGN WITH JESUS DURING THE THOUSAND YEARS.
Revelation 2:7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that OVERCOMETH will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.
Revelation 2:11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that OVERCOMETH shall not be hurt of the second death.
Revelation 2:17 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that OVERCOMETH will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth [it].
Revelation 2:26 And he that OVERCOMETH, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations:
Revelation 3:5 He that OVERCOMETH, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.
Revelation 3:12 Him that OVERCOMETH will I make a PILLAR IN THE TEMPLE OF MY GOD, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, [which is] new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and [I will write upon him] my new name.
Revelation 3:21 To him that OVERCOMETH will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.
Revelation 21:7 He that OVERCOMETH shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.
We BUY WHITE RAIMENT. Salvation is a GIFT.
Revelation 3:18 I counsel thee to BUY OF ME gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and WHITE RAIMENT, that thou mayest be clothed, and [that] the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
THE REWARD IS WORTH THE EFFORT
WHO IS THAT GOD?
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.
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.
IMPOSSIBLE
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.
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.
WHICH WILL IT BE?
WHICH WILL IT BE?
Have you ever come to a fork in the road, and wondered which way is the right route to go? I have done it, both in the natural, and in the Spiritual. It is a rough experience in either realm. We want to avoid it if we can.
The Church world, expecially the Charismatic group, have come to just such a "fork" in the road.
We have truths, which God is clearly shedding light on, but they do not follow the "standard curriculum" at all.
The painful decision is upon us. Will we follow what God is clearly showing us, or will we adhere to what we have always believed to be true? Or will we, worse yet, try to mix the two - the old teachings and the new teachings? THEY DO NOT MIX!
We have most of the ingredients of a potential disaster within our ranks today. We have the "makins" of mass confusion.
To illustrate what I mean: God is clearly showing us today that He is planning to pour out upon the Church the most powerful anointing of His Spirit the world has ever seen. We are learning that God will empower (anoint) His Church to subdue and overthrow the "Kosmos", or World Order. This means the economic, political, and religious aspects together. We revel in this knowledge, hardly able to comprehend what it all means.
The sad part of the matter is that we often try to fit this new light into what we have believed through the years about what is going to happen on the earth.
The "standard curriculum" tells us of "Anti Christ", "Great Tribulation", "Any-minute Rapture", "Return of the Jews", the "Revived Roman Empire," and a whole list of others.
This curriculum, for the most part, has been handed down to us by wonderful men of God who did the best they could with the light they had. But they were working without the added revelation which we are now receiving from the Spirit of the Word. New light from God often does violence to the old teachings, which is what we are facing right now. The old and the new are clashing violently. And, sadly, some of the Word was deliberately altered by men who wanted to divert the attention they were receiving as God began to shed light into the life of Martin Luther, as well as others of the Reformers. Some of The Word has been turned into a lie!
The painful task before us today is sorting it out, to see what will stand the test of present revelation from God.
Painful, because of the violence it is doing to our emotions when we realize we have been wrong in our understanding.
Painful, because for the most part, the waters ahead of us are largely uncharted, and we will have to depend upon the "compass" of the Spirit to guide us. We will not have the familiar landmarks to take bearings from. It CAN lead to shipwreck.
Already, a few hulls are appearing along the rocky shores. Someone's compass was not properly "boxed."
Insincere motives of the heart can badly distort our sense of "direction".
JESUS, SAVIOUR, PILOT ME.
Have you ever come to a fork in the road, and wondered which way is the right route to go? I have done it, both in the natural, and in the Spiritual. It is a rough experience in either realm. We want to avoid it if we can.
The Church world, expecially the Charismatic group, have come to just such a "fork" in the road.
We have truths, which God is clearly shedding light on, but they do not follow the "standard curriculum" at all.
The painful decision is upon us. Will we follow what God is clearly showing us, or will we adhere to what we have always believed to be true? Or will we, worse yet, try to mix the two - the old teachings and the new teachings? THEY DO NOT MIX!
We have most of the ingredients of a potential disaster within our ranks today. We have the "makins" of mass confusion.
To illustrate what I mean: God is clearly showing us today that He is planning to pour out upon the Church the most powerful anointing of His Spirit the world has ever seen. We are learning that God will empower (anoint) His Church to subdue and overthrow the "Kosmos", or World Order. This means the economic, political, and religious aspects together. We revel in this knowledge, hardly able to comprehend what it all means.
The sad part of the matter is that we often try to fit this new light into what we have believed through the years about what is going to happen on the earth.
The "standard curriculum" tells us of "Anti Christ", "Great Tribulation", "Any-minute Rapture", "Return of the Jews", the "Revived Roman Empire," and a whole list of others.
This curriculum, for the most part, has been handed down to us by wonderful men of God who did the best they could with the light they had. But they were working without the added revelation which we are now receiving from the Spirit of the Word. New light from God often does violence to the old teachings, which is what we are facing right now. The old and the new are clashing violently. And, sadly, some of the Word was deliberately altered by men who wanted to divert the attention they were receiving as God began to shed light into the life of Martin Luther, as well as others of the Reformers. Some of The Word has been turned into a lie!
The painful task before us today is sorting it out, to see what will stand the test of present revelation from God.
Painful, because of the violence it is doing to our emotions when we realize we have been wrong in our understanding.
Painful, because for the most part, the waters ahead of us are largely uncharted, and we will have to depend upon the "compass" of the Spirit to guide us. We will not have the familiar landmarks to take bearings from. It CAN lead to shipwreck.
Already, a few hulls are appearing along the rocky shores. Someone's compass was not properly "boxed."
Insincere motives of the heart can badly distort our sense of "direction".
JESUS, SAVIOUR, PILOT ME.
HAVE YOU RECEIVED THE HOLY GHOST
HAVE YOU RECEIVED THE HOLY GHOST?
By 1970 there were about 75,360,000 people who had the Baptism of the Holy Ghost with evidence of Speaking in Tongues. It is an experience in which God takes up residence within the believer and becomes a part of them. Fresh Fire!
By 1980 there were 169,218,000 people who had experienced this indwelling of the Holy Ghost. Fresh Fire!
In 1990 the number had swelled to 405,551,000, and the projected total for 2000 A.D. is 619,326,000. Fresh Fire!
Wow! That is 22,000,000 every year, 61,552 each day, 2,500 every hour, or 42 every minute, which is 1 every second and a half. If you are missing out, determine to get the Holy Ghost Baptism today. Fresh Fire is everywhere!
By 1970 there were about 75,360,000 people who had the Baptism of the Holy Ghost with evidence of Speaking in Tongues. It is an experience in which God takes up residence within the believer and becomes a part of them. Fresh Fire!
By 1980 there were 169,218,000 people who had experienced this indwelling of the Holy Ghost. Fresh Fire!
In 1990 the number had swelled to 405,551,000, and the projected total for 2000 A.D. is 619,326,000. Fresh Fire!
Wow! That is 22,000,000 every year, 61,552 each day, 2,500 every hour, or 42 every minute, which is 1 every second and a half. If you are missing out, determine to get the Holy Ghost Baptism today. Fresh Fire is everywhere!
THE HOMELESS ONE
THE HOMELESS ONE
--the late John Deering
They borrowed a stall, and that was not all
They borrowed a manger too
They borrowed a bed to lay His head
Yet He was the Saviour true
It was borrowed bread when the crowd was fed
And all were satisfied
He borrowed fish too, and only a few
Many fragments were left beside
He borrowed a boat and set it afloat
Not far out from the shore
He borrowed a seat, and rested His feet
As the Word to the People He bore
It came to pass that He borrowed an ass
And the praises of the people were heard
Borrowed garments He trode on a borrowed road
The Saviour, fulfilling God's Word
He borrowed a room on the way to the tomb
The passover lamb to eat
They borrowed a cave for the Master's grave
They borrowed the winding sheet
Not reck'ning the loss, He borrowed a cross
And Barabbas, its owner, went free
He borrowed the sin that was laid upon Him
And He borrowed His death from me.
--the late John Deering
They borrowed a stall, and that was not all
They borrowed a manger too
They borrowed a bed to lay His head
Yet He was the Saviour true
It was borrowed bread when the crowd was fed
And all were satisfied
He borrowed fish too, and only a few
Many fragments were left beside
He borrowed a boat and set it afloat
Not far out from the shore
He borrowed a seat, and rested His feet
As the Word to the People He bore
It came to pass that He borrowed an ass
And the praises of the people were heard
Borrowed garments He trode on a borrowed road
The Saviour, fulfilling God's Word
He borrowed a room on the way to the tomb
The passover lamb to eat
They borrowed a cave for the Master's grave
They borrowed the winding sheet
Not reck'ning the loss, He borrowed a cross
And Barabbas, its owner, went free
He borrowed the sin that was laid upon Him
And He borrowed His death from me.
HOPE AND FAITH
HOPE AND FAITH
Time was when I was not aware of the difference between Hope and Faith. At first glance, they appear to have the same meaning, but such is not, necessarily, the case.
There are eight places in the New Testament where the two words are used in the same context, denoting they do not always mean the same thing, though they are very closely related.
I Corinthians 13:13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these [is] charity.
It is, indeed, difficult to say where one ends and the other begins.
Heb. 11:1 tells us that faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
The best explanation I know is that we hope for the promises of God until He implants faith in our hearts by having given us a Rhema-- His Word, made real to our hearts by His Spirit. When that happens, we have it, whether we see it or not. You can "take it to the bank," as the saying goes.
Romans 10:17 So then faith [cometh] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (Rhema)
A case in point is the account of Paul on the way to Rome.
Acts 27:20 And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on [us], all hope that we should be saved was then taken away. It would seem that God delights in hopeless situations.
But, in this case, Paul heard a Rhema from God, which resulted in Faith, making him able to take command of the situation. Up to that point, nothing but hope kept the sailors trying to save the ship. They hoped they would survive, but did not have any real faith that they would be able to.
Hope becomes faith when God plants a Rhema into the heart.
Faith caused Joseph to give a command concerning his bones, "Take them with you when you go."
Years ago we heard the story of Bridgett, a woman who had lived a brawling type of life, and had lost her nose in a terrible fight. After she was saved, she began praying for a new nose. During one prayer time, God gave her a Rhema for a new nose. In her simplicity, she began to testify that she had a new nose. People would snicker behind their hands when she gave her testimony, for they could see that she didn't have it. They excused her, by saying that her mind had been "blown" by her former life style, and were tolerant of her when she gave thanks for her new nose.
Then, after several month of testimonies and snickerings, Bridgett looked in her mirror one morning when she was dressing. Was the mirror lying to her? Was she having an optical illusion? Or did she actually have a new nose on her face? She did. It was for real. But that is what she had been saying for several months.
Hope had become faith back there when she heard the Rhema of God. God had "delivered" on the Rhema.
Many times we are dissapointed when we mistakenly identify hope as being faith.
Hope is what keeps rescuers digging after a disaster-- the hope of finding more survivors.
Hope is what keeps people hunting for a lost child, or for a drowning victim.
Hope keeps us living for God when present circumstances seem to tell us that it is futile to continue on.
Romans 4:18 Who against hope believed in hope--, God is able to take hopelessness and turn it into laughter. (Isaac means laughter.)
I Cor 9:10 -- that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope.
Hope is what motivated the woman with the issue of blood to press her way through the crowd.
Romans 5:5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
I Peter 1:13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
Romans 8:24 For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?
Titus 3:7 That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
I John 3:3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
Time was when I was not aware of the difference between Hope and Faith. At first glance, they appear to have the same meaning, but such is not, necessarily, the case.
There are eight places in the New Testament where the two words are used in the same context, denoting they do not always mean the same thing, though they are very closely related.
I Corinthians 13:13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these [is] charity.
It is, indeed, difficult to say where one ends and the other begins.
Heb. 11:1 tells us that faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
The best explanation I know is that we hope for the promises of God until He implants faith in our hearts by having given us a Rhema-- His Word, made real to our hearts by His Spirit. When that happens, we have it, whether we see it or not. You can "take it to the bank," as the saying goes.
Romans 10:17 So then faith [cometh] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (Rhema)
A case in point is the account of Paul on the way to Rome.
Acts 27:20 And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on [us], all hope that we should be saved was then taken away. It would seem that God delights in hopeless situations.
But, in this case, Paul heard a Rhema from God, which resulted in Faith, making him able to take command of the situation. Up to that point, nothing but hope kept the sailors trying to save the ship. They hoped they would survive, but did not have any real faith that they would be able to.
Hope becomes faith when God plants a Rhema into the heart.
Faith caused Joseph to give a command concerning his bones, "Take them with you when you go."
Years ago we heard the story of Bridgett, a woman who had lived a brawling type of life, and had lost her nose in a terrible fight. After she was saved, she began praying for a new nose. During one prayer time, God gave her a Rhema for a new nose. In her simplicity, she began to testify that she had a new nose. People would snicker behind their hands when she gave her testimony, for they could see that she didn't have it. They excused her, by saying that her mind had been "blown" by her former life style, and were tolerant of her when she gave thanks for her new nose.
Then, after several month of testimonies and snickerings, Bridgett looked in her mirror one morning when she was dressing. Was the mirror lying to her? Was she having an optical illusion? Or did she actually have a new nose on her face? She did. It was for real. But that is what she had been saying for several months.
Hope had become faith back there when she heard the Rhema of God. God had "delivered" on the Rhema.
Many times we are dissapointed when we mistakenly identify hope as being faith.
Hope is what keeps rescuers digging after a disaster-- the hope of finding more survivors.
Hope is what keeps people hunting for a lost child, or for a drowning victim.
Hope keeps us living for God when present circumstances seem to tell us that it is futile to continue on.
Romans 4:18 Who against hope believed in hope--, God is able to take hopelessness and turn it into laughter. (Isaac means laughter.)
I Cor 9:10 -- that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope.
Hope is what motivated the woman with the issue of blood to press her way through the crowd.
Romans 5:5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
I Peter 1:13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
Romans 8:24 For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?
Titus 3:7 That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
I John 3:3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
IN HEAVENLY PLACES
IN HEAVENLY PLACES
When I was a young Minister I became fascinated with the book of Ephesians. I could not get enough of it, and I wanted everyone else to become as enamored as I was. I soon learned that revelations from God can not be transmitted by spoken words-- only by the Anointing of the Spirit upon the words that are spoken.
I was also to learn, the hard way, that one can lose the anointing on their life by carelessness, while still mouthing words-- fruitlessly.
Genuine repentance and humbling of one's self before God is the only remedy for a lost anointing. Thank God for the wonderful privilege of repentance. After a while, we learn what it means to walk closely with God, and the benefits that are to reaped from doing do.
One of the main things I learned from Ephesians, early on, was found in Chapter One, beginning with verse 19. Someone had written a tract explaining the four Greek words used in the verse-- Ephesians 1:19 And what [is] the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, Ephesians 1:20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set [him] at his own right hand in the heavenly [places]. The tract explained that the four words which were used denoted that right here was the greatest demonstration of God's Power recorded anywhere-- in scripture or out of scripture.
The next "eye opener" came when I realized WHERE the Heavenly (places) were located in relationship to other things. Ephesians 1:21 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:
That's where Jesus is now, and has been since He ascended up on High-- "Far above---" any spiritual power or being or force that we will ever have to contend with. You will be thrilled, as I was, when you know the Greek meaning of the words used here to denote the forces that are under his feet.
It was soon afterward that I discovered the fact that there had not been a chapter break when Paul wrote those words to the believers at Ephesus, and without a break in thought, he had continued on with what made the Resurrection of Jesus such a powerful event-- Ephesians 2:1 And you [hath he quickened], who were dead in trespasses and sins;-- The next few verses describe the condition of a person without the knowledge of God-- All of us fit into that category before we were saved.
Then comes what I called the "Silver Text" of the Bible, vss 4,5,6. Ephesians 2:4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised [us] up together, and made [us] sit together in heavenly [places] in Christ Jesus:
Suddenly, it "stood off the paper" that WE ARE IN the "Heavenly" (places) when we are IN CHRIST JESUS. (FAR ABOVE ALL PRINCIPALITY, POWER, MIGHT, DOMINION, AND EVERY NAME THAT IS NAMED).
When we held our ratification conference in Montesano, Washington in 1945-- to form the United Pentecostal Church, Bro. Ray G. Jones preached a long sermon laboring the fact that we are selling ourselves short in God. I fed my soul, while some others became fed up (it was nearly two hours long).
His exact words have long since been forgotten, but it was burned into my spirit that "When we put ourselves where God's Word says we are-- He will do for us what He says He has already done IN US."
It changed my life-- my whole outlook on the Christian Life.
The Anointing of God is much more important now, than any difference that may turn up involving concepts of God, or interpersonal relationships. "What (who) can separate us from the Love of God?"
When I was a young Minister I became fascinated with the book of Ephesians. I could not get enough of it, and I wanted everyone else to become as enamored as I was. I soon learned that revelations from God can not be transmitted by spoken words-- only by the Anointing of the Spirit upon the words that are spoken.
I was also to learn, the hard way, that one can lose the anointing on their life by carelessness, while still mouthing words-- fruitlessly.
Genuine repentance and humbling of one's self before God is the only remedy for a lost anointing. Thank God for the wonderful privilege of repentance. After a while, we learn what it means to walk closely with God, and the benefits that are to reaped from doing do.
One of the main things I learned from Ephesians, early on, was found in Chapter One, beginning with verse 19. Someone had written a tract explaining the four Greek words used in the verse-- Ephesians 1:19 And what [is] the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, Ephesians 1:20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set [him] at his own right hand in the heavenly [places]. The tract explained that the four words which were used denoted that right here was the greatest demonstration of God's Power recorded anywhere-- in scripture or out of scripture.
The next "eye opener" came when I realized WHERE the Heavenly (places) were located in relationship to other things. Ephesians 1:21 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:
That's where Jesus is now, and has been since He ascended up on High-- "Far above---" any spiritual power or being or force that we will ever have to contend with. You will be thrilled, as I was, when you know the Greek meaning of the words used here to denote the forces that are under his feet.
It was soon afterward that I discovered the fact that there had not been a chapter break when Paul wrote those words to the believers at Ephesus, and without a break in thought, he had continued on with what made the Resurrection of Jesus such a powerful event-- Ephesians 2:1 And you [hath he quickened], who were dead in trespasses and sins;-- The next few verses describe the condition of a person without the knowledge of God-- All of us fit into that category before we were saved.
Then comes what I called the "Silver Text" of the Bible, vss 4,5,6. Ephesians 2:4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised [us] up together, and made [us] sit together in heavenly [places] in Christ Jesus:
Suddenly, it "stood off the paper" that WE ARE IN the "Heavenly" (places) when we are IN CHRIST JESUS. (FAR ABOVE ALL PRINCIPALITY, POWER, MIGHT, DOMINION, AND EVERY NAME THAT IS NAMED).
When we held our ratification conference in Montesano, Washington in 1945-- to form the United Pentecostal Church, Bro. Ray G. Jones preached a long sermon laboring the fact that we are selling ourselves short in God. I fed my soul, while some others became fed up (it was nearly two hours long).
His exact words have long since been forgotten, but it was burned into my spirit that "When we put ourselves where God's Word says we are-- He will do for us what He says He has already done IN US."
It changed my life-- my whole outlook on the Christian Life.
The Anointing of God is much more important now, than any difference that may turn up involving concepts of God, or interpersonal relationships. "What (who) can separate us from the Love of God?"
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
HIS FLOOR
HIS FLOOR
Matthew 3:12 Whose fan [is] in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.
John the Baptist, the forerunner of Jesus, spoke these words about the coming Saviour. He was giving a little preview of what Jesus was going to do on the earth, and after His ascension, even until today.
Isa. 21:10 tells us a little more about the subject introduced by John: that of the threshing floor and the corn of it (wheat). "O my threshing, and the corn of my floor: We are the corn (wheat) and we are on the floor of the Lord. The threshing process is an on-going thing, but it WILL come to an end. Isa 28:28 The threshing is a very important part of our becoming disciples of the Lord. Without it, we never get off of "square one" in our progress with Jesus.
John told us that He would throughly purge (completely clean) His floor. No one will escape the process. Nothing unclean will get past Him.
It is on the "floor" that we find out which class we are in, and what we face in the future. There is wheat, and there is chaff. Each of us has a little of both in us today, but that will change before Jesus is finished with us. There MUST come a separation in our lives before we are suitable for God's purposes.
We are told the purpose of the purging in Isaiah 1:25 And I will turn my hand upon thee, and purely purge away thy dross, and take away all thy tin:
John also told us what will happen to anything that proves to be not fit for the Kingdom. It is destined for the fire. We do not want that as our destiny.
Getting all the chaff out of my life is difficult. I can not even FIND it all, let alone get it all out.
Therefore, I must walk in REPENTANCE before God every day. I must never lose sight of the fact that His Mercy is my ONLY HOPE. Whatever goodness I may possess is hopelessly inadequate.
Matthew 3:8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: --HUMILITY, LOVE, COMPASSION, GODLINESS.
But the thought of purging His Floor has a deeper meaning than the individual application. It is telling me that JESUS INTENDS TO CLEAN UP HIS CHURCH before it is all said and done. Matthew 13:41 The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend--
We need not fret about the bad things we see in the Church and world today. Jesus is fully capable of taking care of it all. AND HE WILL. Our job is to get the chaff out of OUR OWN LIVES. Didn't Jesus mention a "beam" and a "mote" one day?
Matthew 3:12 Whose fan [is] in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.
John the Baptist, the forerunner of Jesus, spoke these words about the coming Saviour. He was giving a little preview of what Jesus was going to do on the earth, and after His ascension, even until today.
Isa. 21:10 tells us a little more about the subject introduced by John: that of the threshing floor and the corn of it (wheat). "O my threshing, and the corn of my floor: We are the corn (wheat) and we are on the floor of the Lord. The threshing process is an on-going thing, but it WILL come to an end. Isa 28:28 The threshing is a very important part of our becoming disciples of the Lord. Without it, we never get off of "square one" in our progress with Jesus.
John told us that He would throughly purge (completely clean) His floor. No one will escape the process. Nothing unclean will get past Him.
It is on the "floor" that we find out which class we are in, and what we face in the future. There is wheat, and there is chaff. Each of us has a little of both in us today, but that will change before Jesus is finished with us. There MUST come a separation in our lives before we are suitable for God's purposes.
We are told the purpose of the purging in Isaiah 1:25 And I will turn my hand upon thee, and purely purge away thy dross, and take away all thy tin:
John also told us what will happen to anything that proves to be not fit for the Kingdom. It is destined for the fire. We do not want that as our destiny.
Getting all the chaff out of my life is difficult. I can not even FIND it all, let alone get it all out.
Therefore, I must walk in REPENTANCE before God every day. I must never lose sight of the fact that His Mercy is my ONLY HOPE. Whatever goodness I may possess is hopelessly inadequate.
Matthew 3:8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: --HUMILITY, LOVE, COMPASSION, GODLINESS.
But the thought of purging His Floor has a deeper meaning than the individual application. It is telling me that JESUS INTENDS TO CLEAN UP HIS CHURCH before it is all said and done. Matthew 13:41 The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend--
We need not fret about the bad things we see in the Church and world today. Jesus is fully capable of taking care of it all. AND HE WILL. Our job is to get the chaff out of OUR OWN LIVES. Didn't Jesus mention a "beam" and a "mote" one day?
THE HEAVENLY LANGUAGE
THE HEAVENLY LANGUAGE
God speaks several different languages, and is not limited to one or two, as most humans are. In fact, there is no language on earth which the Lord does not understand completely. He can speak to individuals in their own native tongue wherever they are. And He does.
God also has a language which can be understood by any and every individual, anywhere, at any time. And there are no problems of translation. It is a UNIVERSAL language-- understandable by all.
It is the language of the Heavens. It is a language which can not be distorted by the workings of mankind. It is a language which God has reserved for His own exclusive use. It is a part of the RHEMA of God.
Romans 10:17 So then faith [cometh] by hearing, and hearing by the word (RHEMA) of God.
Romans 10:18 But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words (RHEMA) unto the ENDS OF THE WORLD (all over the globe).
Paul quoted this portion of the scripture to the Romans directly from Psalm 19, and gives us a glimpse of another aspect of the INFALLIBLE WORD OF GOD-- the heavenly bodies.
Psalms 19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handiwork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. [There is] no speech nor language, [where] their voice is not heard.
Psalms 19:4 Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun, Which [is] as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, [and] rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race.
The Bible tells us that God has made provision for EVERY MAN to be enlightened by the light of God. John 1:9 [That] was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.
God speaks several different languages, and is not limited to one or two, as most humans are. In fact, there is no language on earth which the Lord does not understand completely. He can speak to individuals in their own native tongue wherever they are. And He does.
God also has a language which can be understood by any and every individual, anywhere, at any time. And there are no problems of translation. It is a UNIVERSAL language-- understandable by all.
It is the language of the Heavens. It is a language which can not be distorted by the workings of mankind. It is a language which God has reserved for His own exclusive use. It is a part of the RHEMA of God.
Romans 10:17 So then faith [cometh] by hearing, and hearing by the word (RHEMA) of God.
Romans 10:18 But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words (RHEMA) unto the ENDS OF THE WORLD (all over the globe).
Paul quoted this portion of the scripture to the Romans directly from Psalm 19, and gives us a glimpse of another aspect of the INFALLIBLE WORD OF GOD-- the heavenly bodies.
Psalms 19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handiwork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. [There is] no speech nor language, [where] their voice is not heard.
Psalms 19:4 Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun, Which [is] as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, [and] rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race.
The Bible tells us that God has made provision for EVERY MAN to be enlightened by the light of God. John 1:9 [That] was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.
HEDGED ABOUT
HEDGED ABOUT
A few days ago I received a call from an Evangelist who was in town, inviting me to attend his meetings. In the course of conversation, he told me he had suffered a heart attack since I had last seen him. He said, "The devil gave it to me."
I chuckled over the phone, and told him that who gave it to him was a matter of opinion. He became very quiet, and soon he had to go.
Our teaching about the devil have not enhanced our popularity in Pentecostal circles.
In Ireland, the IRA is glad to accept responsibility for all bombings, and what have you. They are aware of the fact that each time they claim such responsibility, whether or not it is true, it contributes to the sum total of fear in the hearts of the people.
The devil is smarter than the IRA. He is "tickled pink" when we Christians blame him for anything that goes wrong in our lives-- Spiritually or physically. It adds to the sum total of our fear. He is, already, bigger than God in the minds of many Christians, and he is "going for broke."
We don't read our Bibles nor pray like we should, so we "fear" being deceived by the "devil". It is no one else's fault but our own if we get deceived. If our motives are pure, the Lord Himself stands guard.
If we have inherited a weak body, our sicknesses are all the fault of "the devil". Not so. "That which is flesh is flesh."
We have not arrived at "the redemption of the body" yet. We do have "the gifts of healing", but God is not in the business of healing "all of our diseases" yet. Coming, but not yet.
Our society, as a whole, is in rebellion to God, so our weaker ones are afflicted with "none (all) of those evil diseases of Egypt". Deut. 7:15. They are a part of the curses God, not the devil, promised to put on a society which would not obey Him.
THE INDIVIDUAL WHO IS AFFLICTED IS NOT, NECESSARILY, THE ONE GUILTY ONE.
Society is to blame for many of our difficulties.
Church going Christians are almost as rebellious to God as our non-Christian neighbors. We flock to Him for the blessings, but we balk at the "obedience" factor.
But we CAN contribute to our own troubles.
If we don't eat right, nor get enough rest and exercise-- "the devil" gives us a heart attack or diabetes. Or, worse yet, tuberculosis or hypertension.
How absurd we have become, and how it pleases our enemy for us to give him all the credit.
He knows what the score is whether we do or not. He knows he was bound in chains of darkness when Jesus gave up the ghost on Calvary. He knows how he tried to keep Jesus off the Cross, knowing that his defeat was sure if Jesus offered Himself for the sin of the world.
Hebrews 7:27 -- 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--
Friends, it was not the devil who put Jesus on the Cross. It was Religious leaders that did it.
Further, let me tell you that if the devil is "on the attack" in your life, you need to take inventory.
James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Consider how he complained to God when challenged about the faithfulness and uprightness of Job. Job 1:10 Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side?
Job lived long before Calvary. Did his relationship to God exceed the relationship which Jesus purchased for us? Would He hedge Job, and leave us prey to the common enemy? Read Romans five to see how "much more" we have today.
Let me quote to you I Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
A quick look at Strong's (#3525) clearly defines to us that we are to watch our own relationship to God-- not our relationship to the devil. A proper relationship to God is the only protection we need.
Let's work more on that, and watch our attitudes toward the vicissitudes of life change.
There is no call for the "booby trap mania" that is so prevalent in Pentecostal circles.
The Word says that "He scourgeth (lit. flogs) every son whom He receiveth."
Stop ascribing the workings of the Holy Spirit to the enemy. Jesus had something to say about that, didn't He?
A few days ago I received a call from an Evangelist who was in town, inviting me to attend his meetings. In the course of conversation, he told me he had suffered a heart attack since I had last seen him. He said, "The devil gave it to me."
I chuckled over the phone, and told him that who gave it to him was a matter of opinion. He became very quiet, and soon he had to go.
Our teaching about the devil have not enhanced our popularity in Pentecostal circles.
In Ireland, the IRA is glad to accept responsibility for all bombings, and what have you. They are aware of the fact that each time they claim such responsibility, whether or not it is true, it contributes to the sum total of fear in the hearts of the people.
The devil is smarter than the IRA. He is "tickled pink" when we Christians blame him for anything that goes wrong in our lives-- Spiritually or physically. It adds to the sum total of our fear. He is, already, bigger than God in the minds of many Christians, and he is "going for broke."
We don't read our Bibles nor pray like we should, so we "fear" being deceived by the "devil". It is no one else's fault but our own if we get deceived. If our motives are pure, the Lord Himself stands guard.
If we have inherited a weak body, our sicknesses are all the fault of "the devil". Not so. "That which is flesh is flesh."
We have not arrived at "the redemption of the body" yet. We do have "the gifts of healing", but God is not in the business of healing "all of our diseases" yet. Coming, but not yet.
Our society, as a whole, is in rebellion to God, so our weaker ones are afflicted with "none (all) of those evil diseases of Egypt". Deut. 7:15. They are a part of the curses God, not the devil, promised to put on a society which would not obey Him.
THE INDIVIDUAL WHO IS AFFLICTED IS NOT, NECESSARILY, THE ONE GUILTY ONE.
Society is to blame for many of our difficulties.
Church going Christians are almost as rebellious to God as our non-Christian neighbors. We flock to Him for the blessings, but we balk at the "obedience" factor.
But we CAN contribute to our own troubles.
If we don't eat right, nor get enough rest and exercise-- "the devil" gives us a heart attack or diabetes. Or, worse yet, tuberculosis or hypertension.
How absurd we have become, and how it pleases our enemy for us to give him all the credit.
He knows what the score is whether we do or not. He knows he was bound in chains of darkness when Jesus gave up the ghost on Calvary. He knows how he tried to keep Jesus off the Cross, knowing that his defeat was sure if Jesus offered Himself for the sin of the world.
Hebrews 7:27 -- 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--
Friends, it was not the devil who put Jesus on the Cross. It was Religious leaders that did it.
Further, let me tell you that if the devil is "on the attack" in your life, you need to take inventory.
James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Consider how he complained to God when challenged about the faithfulness and uprightness of Job. Job 1:10 Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side?
Job lived long before Calvary. Did his relationship to God exceed the relationship which Jesus purchased for us? Would He hedge Job, and leave us prey to the common enemy? Read Romans five to see how "much more" we have today.
Let me quote to you I Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
A quick look at Strong's (#3525) clearly defines to us that we are to watch our own relationship to God-- not our relationship to the devil. A proper relationship to God is the only protection we need.
Let's work more on that, and watch our attitudes toward the vicissitudes of life change.
There is no call for the "booby trap mania" that is so prevalent in Pentecostal circles.
The Word says that "He scourgeth (lit. flogs) every son whom He receiveth."
Stop ascribing the workings of the Holy Spirit to the enemy. Jesus had something to say about that, didn't He?
GRIEVOUS WOLVES
GRIEVOUS WOLVES
Last evening, while worshipping the Lord in a small gathering, a scripture which I had not thought of in a long time was quickened to me. I had been thinking during the day about the violence which has been done to the original Word of God, and the Faith once delivered to the saints. I had been made aware of the deliberate changes that had been made in the manuscripts which were to be preserved, before the originals were destroyed.
From the writings of Eusebius, who, until his death, owned many of the originals, we learn of the changes which were made, and why they were made. In quoting Scripture, he used the original wording, which is distinctly different than the altered version. Our church teachings could have been much different, had the first manuscripts been preserved.
Clear as a bell, came the words "grievous wolves". They are the words of Paul: Acts 20:29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
Paul, by the Spirit, knew that something like this would happen, though he may not have known exactly how it would happen.
Peter saw the same thing coming, as we find in 2 Peter 2:1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.
An excerpt from the history of Israel will serve as an example of how these things happen. Joshua 24:31 And Israel served the LORD all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders that overlived Joshua, and which had known all the works of the LORD, that he had done for Israel. GOD HAS NO GRAND CHILDREN.
Solomon was concerned about what would happen to what he had accomplished after he was gone. Ecclesiastes 2:18 Yea, I hated all my labour which I had taken under the sun: because I should leave it unto the man that shall be after me.
Isaiah writes about unregenerate men in high positions in the flock of Jesus. Isaiah 56:11 Yea, [they are] greedy dogs [which] can never have enough, and-- cannot understand: they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter.
Jesus said almost the same thing. Matthew 7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
Satan has not been the worst enemy of the Church. It has been self seeking men in high positions, weilding authority over those in lesser positions.
But the news is not all bad. God WILL HAVE THE LAST WORD! HE IS STRONGER THAN DEVILS AND MEN!
He has hidden (SEALED) the true witness from the hands of men. Revelation 5:1 And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals.
These "seals" (Strong's 4973) "fencing in or protecting from misappropriation) can only be broken, and the truth revealed, by the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David.
Daniel had to "seal up" what he wrote, also, to keep it from falling into the hands of those who would wrest it away.
Psalms 25:14 The secret of the LORD [is] with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant.
Here, then, is the purpose of the testings God puts us through. He is assaying, to determine the depth of our "fear" of Him. He will not reveal His secrets to those whom He can not trust with them.
Eunuchs, those from whom the desire for selfish gain has been extracted, are the ones who can be trusted with things which pertain to the Bride.
Last evening, while worshipping the Lord in a small gathering, a scripture which I had not thought of in a long time was quickened to me. I had been thinking during the day about the violence which has been done to the original Word of God, and the Faith once delivered to the saints. I had been made aware of the deliberate changes that had been made in the manuscripts which were to be preserved, before the originals were destroyed.
From the writings of Eusebius, who, until his death, owned many of the originals, we learn of the changes which were made, and why they were made. In quoting Scripture, he used the original wording, which is distinctly different than the altered version. Our church teachings could have been much different, had the first manuscripts been preserved.
Clear as a bell, came the words "grievous wolves". They are the words of Paul: Acts 20:29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
Paul, by the Spirit, knew that something like this would happen, though he may not have known exactly how it would happen.
Peter saw the same thing coming, as we find in 2 Peter 2:1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.
An excerpt from the history of Israel will serve as an example of how these things happen. Joshua 24:31 And Israel served the LORD all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders that overlived Joshua, and which had known all the works of the LORD, that he had done for Israel. GOD HAS NO GRAND CHILDREN.
Solomon was concerned about what would happen to what he had accomplished after he was gone. Ecclesiastes 2:18 Yea, I hated all my labour which I had taken under the sun: because I should leave it unto the man that shall be after me.
Isaiah writes about unregenerate men in high positions in the flock of Jesus. Isaiah 56:11 Yea, [they are] greedy dogs [which] can never have enough, and-- cannot understand: they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter.
Jesus said almost the same thing. Matthew 7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
Satan has not been the worst enemy of the Church. It has been self seeking men in high positions, weilding authority over those in lesser positions.
But the news is not all bad. God WILL HAVE THE LAST WORD! HE IS STRONGER THAN DEVILS AND MEN!
He has hidden (SEALED) the true witness from the hands of men. Revelation 5:1 And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals.
These "seals" (Strong's 4973) "fencing in or protecting from misappropriation) can only be broken, and the truth revealed, by the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David.
Daniel had to "seal up" what he wrote, also, to keep it from falling into the hands of those who would wrest it away.
Psalms 25:14 The secret of the LORD [is] with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant.
Here, then, is the purpose of the testings God puts us through. He is assaying, to determine the depth of our "fear" of Him. He will not reveal His secrets to those whom He can not trust with them.
Eunuchs, those from whom the desire for selfish gain has been extracted, are the ones who can be trusted with things which pertain to the Bride.
HAVE FAITH IN GOD
HAVE FAITH IN GOD
As I came down stairs this morning, a scripture was "ringing" in my ears.
It was Mark 11:22 And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.
I want to take it out of it's real setting (I know I am transgressing), and let you know what was actually going on in my mind this morning. There are, perhaps, other scriptures which would do just as well, but that is the one I was "hearing" today.
It seems that we humans would rather put our confidence in almost anything that we have been able to produce ourselves.
We place a very high value on our alliances with other humans, whether they be written contracts, verbal contracts, or "Gentleman's Agreements". Those other humans may be people whom we trust implicitly, but we need to bear in mind that ALL flesh is flesh, and frail flesh at that. Somewhere along the line, that frail flesh WILL fail us. That is the BEST it can do-- fail.
We tend to put faith in our government, thinking that the men and women in the high offices are dedicated to the welfare of the people that they are governing. We are prone to rely on the Constitution that was framed by our forefathers. But experience has taught us that we dare not depend too much on that, for we have seen it mis-interpreted and mis-used so much that it has lost much of its ability to protect and guide us. It is because MEN, often unregenerate men, are administering its provisions.
We also tend to place too much confidence in our Church-- its supposed collective strength and correctness in interpreting the truths of God's Word. Surely, here is where there is strength in numbers, for all of our ministers are God-fearing and honorable people. We can safely entrust the welfare of our souls in their keeping, and obey them without fear of missing the mark.
Here, again, we are doomed to dismal failure, for the history of the denominations and church government reveals a glaring disparity of interpretations of the Holy Word of God...Who is right? Each is quick to say, "We are." The obvious conclusion is that most, if not all, are not correct in their views of God, and His Word. Our church is not worthy of our confidence, when the welfare of our soul is at stake.
It seems that almost every place we could look for safety and security has an element of humanity in it. Humanity is the same-- any where you find it. It is frail, and prone to failure. It is self-seeking, and eager to get for itself the best of any relationship entered into. It is carnal, and can never be entirely unbiased. It is "sold under sin", and cannot be trusted when the "chips are down."
Solomon wisely wrote: Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Ah! That is the place of safety. There is the only sure guidance for our souls. His Counsel is the only pure advice that we can rely on. He is always exactly right-- free from error. Here is safety for our souls.
Have faith in God.
As I came down stairs this morning, a scripture was "ringing" in my ears.
It was Mark 11:22 And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.
I want to take it out of it's real setting (I know I am transgressing), and let you know what was actually going on in my mind this morning. There are, perhaps, other scriptures which would do just as well, but that is the one I was "hearing" today.
It seems that we humans would rather put our confidence in almost anything that we have been able to produce ourselves.
We place a very high value on our alliances with other humans, whether they be written contracts, verbal contracts, or "Gentleman's Agreements". Those other humans may be people whom we trust implicitly, but we need to bear in mind that ALL flesh is flesh, and frail flesh at that. Somewhere along the line, that frail flesh WILL fail us. That is the BEST it can do-- fail.
We tend to put faith in our government, thinking that the men and women in the high offices are dedicated to the welfare of the people that they are governing. We are prone to rely on the Constitution that was framed by our forefathers. But experience has taught us that we dare not depend too much on that, for we have seen it mis-interpreted and mis-used so much that it has lost much of its ability to protect and guide us. It is because MEN, often unregenerate men, are administering its provisions.
We also tend to place too much confidence in our Church-- its supposed collective strength and correctness in interpreting the truths of God's Word. Surely, here is where there is strength in numbers, for all of our ministers are God-fearing and honorable people. We can safely entrust the welfare of our souls in their keeping, and obey them without fear of missing the mark.
Here, again, we are doomed to dismal failure, for the history of the denominations and church government reveals a glaring disparity of interpretations of the Holy Word of God...Who is right? Each is quick to say, "We are." The obvious conclusion is that most, if not all, are not correct in their views of God, and His Word. Our church is not worthy of our confidence, when the welfare of our soul is at stake.
It seems that almost every place we could look for safety and security has an element of humanity in it. Humanity is the same-- any where you find it. It is frail, and prone to failure. It is self-seeking, and eager to get for itself the best of any relationship entered into. It is carnal, and can never be entirely unbiased. It is "sold under sin", and cannot be trusted when the "chips are down."
Solomon wisely wrote: Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Ah! That is the place of safety. There is the only sure guidance for our souls. His Counsel is the only pure advice that we can rely on. He is always exactly right-- free from error. Here is safety for our souls.
Have faith in God.
THE HIDING PLACE
THE HIDING PLACE
After the explosion of the Atomic Bombs on Japan in 1945, and people realized what a terrible thing had been created, fear began to grip the hearts of people. We were advised to create bomb shelters on our property, stocked with supplies for several days. Many people did the best they could, but most of them would have been woefully inadequate had they been needed.
Many folks are feeling a need today for a place of shelter and safety from what they see coming upon the earth today.
In 1948, Wing Anderson wrote a book entitled "Seven years that change the world," in which quite detailed advice was given for a means of survival-- even to what was deemed to be the safest place on earth-- Ogden, Utah. Needless to say, there was a rush to buy land around Ogden following the publishing of the book. Every one is interested in safety and survival.
But the Bible also gives some very specific guidelines for preparation to survive events which may come.
Oddly, most of the admonitions deal with our Spiritual conditions, rather than physical fortifications. The implication seems to be that if God does not preserve us, there is little hope that our own feeble efforts can do us any good.
The Prophet Isaiah said: Isaiah 26:20 Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.
That admonition was given in the face of moral and Spiritual declension in the nation of Israel.
The Psalmist displayed a high degree of confidence in the ability of the God he loved to keep him from the dangers of men and of spirits. Such confidence sprang out of a close walk with the Lord. Confidence will arise in our hearts also as we make Him the King of our life.
Psalms 32:7 Thou [art] my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah.
Psalms 119:114 Thou [art] my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.
Psalms 27:5 For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.
Psalms 31:20 Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.
Psalms 17:8 Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings,
Psalms 91:1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
After the explosion of the Atomic Bombs on Japan in 1945, and people realized what a terrible thing had been created, fear began to grip the hearts of people. We were advised to create bomb shelters on our property, stocked with supplies for several days. Many people did the best they could, but most of them would have been woefully inadequate had they been needed.
Many folks are feeling a need today for a place of shelter and safety from what they see coming upon the earth today.
In 1948, Wing Anderson wrote a book entitled "Seven years that change the world," in which quite detailed advice was given for a means of survival-- even to what was deemed to be the safest place on earth-- Ogden, Utah. Needless to say, there was a rush to buy land around Ogden following the publishing of the book. Every one is interested in safety and survival.
But the Bible also gives some very specific guidelines for preparation to survive events which may come.
Oddly, most of the admonitions deal with our Spiritual conditions, rather than physical fortifications. The implication seems to be that if God does not preserve us, there is little hope that our own feeble efforts can do us any good.
The Prophet Isaiah said: Isaiah 26:20 Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.
That admonition was given in the face of moral and Spiritual declension in the nation of Israel.
The Psalmist displayed a high degree of confidence in the ability of the God he loved to keep him from the dangers of men and of spirits. Such confidence sprang out of a close walk with the Lord. Confidence will arise in our hearts also as we make Him the King of our life.
Psalms 32:7 Thou [art] my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah.
Psalms 119:114 Thou [art] my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.
Psalms 27:5 For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.
Psalms 31:20 Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.
Psalms 17:8 Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings,
Psalms 91:1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
Monday, August 28, 2006
IS GOD A LIAR?
IS GOD A LIAR?
Your immediate answer would be, "No." Mine would be too, for the Scripture tells us plainly that God CANNOT LIE.
Titus 1:2 In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;
I have a problem that just won't go away and be quiet. I wish it would, but it won't. I try to "shoo" it away, but before long it returns like a panting, hungry puppy, wanting attention.
The "problem" is trying to reconcile what is being taught by many zealous Charismatic people today, compared to what God is actually doing in the world presently.
There are conflicts in many areas, which worry me to greater or lesser degrees, but one is especially bothersome right now.
That is the matter of Divine Healing. Why is there such a great gulf between what is being taught, and what is actually happening? Please don't conclude that I am doubting what God is able to do, as though it were His fault.
But the glaring FACTS still remain. GOD IS NOT DOING WHAT WE ARE BEING TOLD HE IS SUPPOSED TO DO. Herein is my problem.
Psalms 103:3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;
This scripture, along with many others, has been used to "bolster our faith" to believe for miracles of healing. Actually, it has served to depress us more than to help us.
If we have been assured that God HAS TO PERFORM HIS WORD, and we do not receive the healing miracle, our faith plummets, and dismay establishes a "beach head" in our life. "God failed me," gnaws at our hearts, and a real case of confusion sets in.
Early in our ministry, Pearl and I were called by a former member of our group, who then lived in another town some distance away. Her father had lung cancer-- very bad. She had called her present Pastor to pray for her father, that he might be healed. The Pastor had come, but had refused to pray for the man to be healed. He told our friend that her father was not going to be healed-- he was going to die.
Not wanting to take "No" for an answer, she called and asked if we would come pray. It was gas rationing time, and we really didn't have either the gas nor the money to spare for a trip to where our friend lived. But she had confidence in us. We dare not risk letting her down. We went.
When we arrived, confusion reached out a slimy hand and grabbed for me. I knew at a glance that the woman's present Pastor had known the score. God WAS NOT GOING TO HEAL HER FATHER. Could I shatter our sister's confidence in us, her former shepherds? How would I handle it?
I had an experience there that day which was to be repeated many times through the years which followed. It was the beginning of a learning process. Learning about God, and how to work with Him.
We anointed the brother with oil according to James 5:14. We laid our hands on him and began to pray-- having absolutely no faith that God was going to raise him up. We KNEW He was not going to do it.
As we prayed, affirming our love to the Lord, and honor to His Name, the Name of Jesus, the Spirit spoke, almost audibly, to me that the brother didn't need to suffer any more.
We immediately began to take the authority of the Name of Jesus over the pain in the man's body.
As near as we could know by circumstances, nothing, absolutely nothing happened.
We sat and visited a few minutes before returning home. As far as we were able to discern, the trip and the prayer had been in vain. A week later, the man died.
It was then that we learned what had happened the day we prayed. The brother was under the influence of strong pain killers when we prayed, so he was at ease.
BUT THE PAIN DID NOT COME BACK AFTER THE MEDICINE WORE OFF. IT NEVER DID RETURN!
God had spoken to our hearts what His Will was for the brother. We had acted accordingly, and the WORK OF GOD'S CHOOSING HAD BEEN ACCOMPLISHED.
On the morning he died, his wife had taken him his breakfast. After he had eaten, she returned to the kitchen and was doing up the dishes-- listening to him sing a hymn from his childhood. The song stopped abruptly, and she went to see why. He was gone. The Lord had kissed his breath away-- painlessly.
As I have said, that was the beginning of a learning process in our lives. Learning how to work with God.
We began to listen for the Voice of the Spirit as we prayed for people. Was He going to heal or not? Was He doing some other thing this time?
If, and when, we got a message from God, we knew we could act accordingly. When we would declare what the Spirit was saying, we were not disappointed.
God did not always give a clear Word to us. Those times, we sought Him for His Mercy, and He often extended mercy to us. We learned that we could not force the Hand of God. We are the slaves, He is the Master.
THE PROBLEM WAS STILL NAGGING FOR AN ANSWER-- WHY IS GOD NOT DOING WHAT HIS WORD SAYS HE WOULD DO?
Obviously, the "problem" is "in our court"-- not in the Lord's. It has to be our understanding that is faulty. God is perfect and right. His Word is perfect and right.
His Word must have a different meaning than is conveyed by the ink on the paper. It tells us: I Corinthians 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know [them], because they are spiritually discerned.
One day I was reading, and found a verse that "stood out" to me. It was Hebrews 2:8 Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing [that is] not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him.
What it was "saying" to me was, "It is already done, but not yet." For a while it seemed like double talk, and I didn't know what to do with it. "It is already done, but not yet." What could it mean?
Sometime later another "illumination" came my way. This time it was from I Corinthians 12:9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
Along with it I was given I Corinthians 12:30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
The Spirit seemed to be trying to tell me we have been given the gifts of healing until "that which is perfect is come".
There can be no doubt that Jesus paid the price for perfect and complete health (healing) for His people. There likewise can be no doubt that it will become a reality in some future day.
"It is already done, but not yet."
It was the beginning of several "illuminations" which were to follow concerning God's dealings with His People today, based upon the same principle of God having made provision for certain things which have not come to realization yet.
Some day we may share some more of them with you, but we are still thinking of Divine Healing right now.
Pearl and I have seen some remarkable miracles of healing take place as we listened for the voice of the Spirit, and have spoken accordingly.
A few times we have been allowed to enter into what might be called a "Creative Command", in which we could command certain things to happen-- speaking the Mind of the Lord. On these occasions, we could watch as the Spirit carried out the commands. We could only do this with His Permission.
Other times, when we could not discern the voice of the Spirit, we have done what any other person would do-- pray.
Affirming our confidence in the integrity of God, we plead for His Mercy to be extended. Often we are surprised at what He does in response to our simple pleadings for mercy.
God does not lie, but we are not wise to take the ink on the paper as our criterion. The Word was given by the Spirit. It takes the Spirit to interpret that written Word.
We will do well to consider the element of TIME in our endeavours to interpret the Word of God.
Complete health and healing was paid for on the Cross, but the "fullnes of time" has not yet arrived for that portion of our redemption. " It is already done, but not yet."
Your immediate answer would be, "No." Mine would be too, for the Scripture tells us plainly that God CANNOT LIE.
Titus 1:2 In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;
I have a problem that just won't go away and be quiet. I wish it would, but it won't. I try to "shoo" it away, but before long it returns like a panting, hungry puppy, wanting attention.
The "problem" is trying to reconcile what is being taught by many zealous Charismatic people today, compared to what God is actually doing in the world presently.
There are conflicts in many areas, which worry me to greater or lesser degrees, but one is especially bothersome right now.
That is the matter of Divine Healing. Why is there such a great gulf between what is being taught, and what is actually happening? Please don't conclude that I am doubting what God is able to do, as though it were His fault.
But the glaring FACTS still remain. GOD IS NOT DOING WHAT WE ARE BEING TOLD HE IS SUPPOSED TO DO. Herein is my problem.
Psalms 103:3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;
This scripture, along with many others, has been used to "bolster our faith" to believe for miracles of healing. Actually, it has served to depress us more than to help us.
If we have been assured that God HAS TO PERFORM HIS WORD, and we do not receive the healing miracle, our faith plummets, and dismay establishes a "beach head" in our life. "God failed me," gnaws at our hearts, and a real case of confusion sets in.
Early in our ministry, Pearl and I were called by a former member of our group, who then lived in another town some distance away. Her father had lung cancer-- very bad. She had called her present Pastor to pray for her father, that he might be healed. The Pastor had come, but had refused to pray for the man to be healed. He told our friend that her father was not going to be healed-- he was going to die.
Not wanting to take "No" for an answer, she called and asked if we would come pray. It was gas rationing time, and we really didn't have either the gas nor the money to spare for a trip to where our friend lived. But she had confidence in us. We dare not risk letting her down. We went.
When we arrived, confusion reached out a slimy hand and grabbed for me. I knew at a glance that the woman's present Pastor had known the score. God WAS NOT GOING TO HEAL HER FATHER. Could I shatter our sister's confidence in us, her former shepherds? How would I handle it?
I had an experience there that day which was to be repeated many times through the years which followed. It was the beginning of a learning process. Learning about God, and how to work with Him.
We anointed the brother with oil according to James 5:14. We laid our hands on him and began to pray-- having absolutely no faith that God was going to raise him up. We KNEW He was not going to do it.
As we prayed, affirming our love to the Lord, and honor to His Name, the Name of Jesus, the Spirit spoke, almost audibly, to me that the brother didn't need to suffer any more.
We immediately began to take the authority of the Name of Jesus over the pain in the man's body.
As near as we could know by circumstances, nothing, absolutely nothing happened.
We sat and visited a few minutes before returning home. As far as we were able to discern, the trip and the prayer had been in vain. A week later, the man died.
It was then that we learned what had happened the day we prayed. The brother was under the influence of strong pain killers when we prayed, so he was at ease.
BUT THE PAIN DID NOT COME BACK AFTER THE MEDICINE WORE OFF. IT NEVER DID RETURN!
God had spoken to our hearts what His Will was for the brother. We had acted accordingly, and the WORK OF GOD'S CHOOSING HAD BEEN ACCOMPLISHED.
On the morning he died, his wife had taken him his breakfast. After he had eaten, she returned to the kitchen and was doing up the dishes-- listening to him sing a hymn from his childhood. The song stopped abruptly, and she went to see why. He was gone. The Lord had kissed his breath away-- painlessly.
As I have said, that was the beginning of a learning process in our lives. Learning how to work with God.
We began to listen for the Voice of the Spirit as we prayed for people. Was He going to heal or not? Was He doing some other thing this time?
If, and when, we got a message from God, we knew we could act accordingly. When we would declare what the Spirit was saying, we were not disappointed.
God did not always give a clear Word to us. Those times, we sought Him for His Mercy, and He often extended mercy to us. We learned that we could not force the Hand of God. We are the slaves, He is the Master.
THE PROBLEM WAS STILL NAGGING FOR AN ANSWER-- WHY IS GOD NOT DOING WHAT HIS WORD SAYS HE WOULD DO?
Obviously, the "problem" is "in our court"-- not in the Lord's. It has to be our understanding that is faulty. God is perfect and right. His Word is perfect and right.
His Word must have a different meaning than is conveyed by the ink on the paper. It tells us: I Corinthians 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know [them], because they are spiritually discerned.
One day I was reading, and found a verse that "stood out" to me. It was Hebrews 2:8 Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing [that is] not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him.
What it was "saying" to me was, "It is already done, but not yet." For a while it seemed like double talk, and I didn't know what to do with it. "It is already done, but not yet." What could it mean?
Sometime later another "illumination" came my way. This time it was from I Corinthians 12:9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
Along with it I was given I Corinthians 12:30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
The Spirit seemed to be trying to tell me we have been given the gifts of healing until "that which is perfect is come".
There can be no doubt that Jesus paid the price for perfect and complete health (healing) for His people. There likewise can be no doubt that it will become a reality in some future day.
"It is already done, but not yet."
It was the beginning of several "illuminations" which were to follow concerning God's dealings with His People today, based upon the same principle of God having made provision for certain things which have not come to realization yet.
Some day we may share some more of them with you, but we are still thinking of Divine Healing right now.
Pearl and I have seen some remarkable miracles of healing take place as we listened for the voice of the Spirit, and have spoken accordingly.
A few times we have been allowed to enter into what might be called a "Creative Command", in which we could command certain things to happen-- speaking the Mind of the Lord. On these occasions, we could watch as the Spirit carried out the commands. We could only do this with His Permission.
Other times, when we could not discern the voice of the Spirit, we have done what any other person would do-- pray.
Affirming our confidence in the integrity of God, we plead for His Mercy to be extended. Often we are surprised at what He does in response to our simple pleadings for mercy.
God does not lie, but we are not wise to take the ink on the paper as our criterion. The Word was given by the Spirit. It takes the Spirit to interpret that written Word.
We will do well to consider the element of TIME in our endeavours to interpret the Word of God.
Complete health and healing was paid for on the Cross, but the "fullnes of time" has not yet arrived for that portion of our redemption. " It is already done, but not yet."
A "GOING"
A "GOING"
Thousands of years ago, King David asked the Lord for directions in resisting an attack of the Philistines (ancient Palestinians) upon Israel. "Shall I attack?" was the question. The Lord forbade him to do it, though he could have probably "whipped the socks off of them" had he been permitted to do so.
It is usually better to hearken to the counsel of the Lord than to do things in our own way, and in our own time. So often, our own promptings are laced with fear or anger and retaliation, and can cause more problems than they solve.
God had His own battle plan, and all He wanted David to do was to cooperate with Him in the operation. The Bible records the incident in two places.
II Samuel 5:24 And let it be, when thou hearest the sound of a going in the tops of the mulberry trees, that then thou shalt bestir thyself: for then shall the LORD go out before thee, to smite the host of the Philistines.
I Chronicles 14:15 And it shall be, when thou shalt hear a sound of going in the tops of the mulberry trees, [that] then thou shalt go out to battle: for God is gone forth before thee to smite the host of the Philistines.
In this case, TIMING was the MOST IMPORTANT aspect of the defense strategy. It is often so, especially when the Lord has been brought into the equation.
I have often thought of Paul, in his dealing with the girl who was following them and telling everybody they were the servants of the Most High God. Paul wisely waited until he was prompted of the Holy Ghost before he did anything about it.
Acts 16:16 And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying: The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation. And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.
My first impulse would have been to tackle the problem immediately (I have done so many times, and become dismayed). But God's ways and times are different than ours.
I also often think of Abraham's servant by the well in Mesopotamia, when looking for a wife for Isaac:
Genesis 24:14 And let it come to pass, that the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: [let the same be] she [that] thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast shewed kindness unto my master. And it came to pass, before he had done speaking, that, behold, Rebekah came out, who was born to Bethuel, son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor, Abraham's brother, with her pitcher upon her shoulder.
We also see the exact timing of the shouting of the warriors of Israel when the marching around the walls of Jericho was completed.
Joshua 6:10 And Joshua had commanded the people, saying, Ye shall not shout, nor make any noise with your voice, neither shall [any] word proceed out of your mouth, until the day I bid you shout; then shall ye shout.
How about Peter and John at the gate Beautiful? The lame man had been there for a long time. Had they never seen him? Yes, they undoubtedly knew about him. But, without the prompting of the Holy Ghost it might not have been wise to try to do anything about the situation.
Acts 3:2 And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted [him] up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.
Jesus at the pool of Bethesda is another example of the TIMING OF THE LORD.
How many incidents can you think about, in which the timing of God was a determining factor?
Thousands of years ago, King David asked the Lord for directions in resisting an attack of the Philistines (ancient Palestinians) upon Israel. "Shall I attack?" was the question. The Lord forbade him to do it, though he could have probably "whipped the socks off of them" had he been permitted to do so.
It is usually better to hearken to the counsel of the Lord than to do things in our own way, and in our own time. So often, our own promptings are laced with fear or anger and retaliation, and can cause more problems than they solve.
God had His own battle plan, and all He wanted David to do was to cooperate with Him in the operation. The Bible records the incident in two places.
II Samuel 5:24 And let it be, when thou hearest the sound of a going in the tops of the mulberry trees, that then thou shalt bestir thyself: for then shall the LORD go out before thee, to smite the host of the Philistines.
I Chronicles 14:15 And it shall be, when thou shalt hear a sound of going in the tops of the mulberry trees, [that] then thou shalt go out to battle: for God is gone forth before thee to smite the host of the Philistines.
In this case, TIMING was the MOST IMPORTANT aspect of the defense strategy. It is often so, especially when the Lord has been brought into the equation.
I have often thought of Paul, in his dealing with the girl who was following them and telling everybody they were the servants of the Most High God. Paul wisely waited until he was prompted of the Holy Ghost before he did anything about it.
Acts 16:16 And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying: The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation. And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.
My first impulse would have been to tackle the problem immediately (I have done so many times, and become dismayed). But God's ways and times are different than ours.
I also often think of Abraham's servant by the well in Mesopotamia, when looking for a wife for Isaac:
Genesis 24:14 And let it come to pass, that the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: [let the same be] she [that] thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast shewed kindness unto my master. And it came to pass, before he had done speaking, that, behold, Rebekah came out, who was born to Bethuel, son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor, Abraham's brother, with her pitcher upon her shoulder.
We also see the exact timing of the shouting of the warriors of Israel when the marching around the walls of Jericho was completed.
Joshua 6:10 And Joshua had commanded the people, saying, Ye shall not shout, nor make any noise with your voice, neither shall [any] word proceed out of your mouth, until the day I bid you shout; then shall ye shout.
How about Peter and John at the gate Beautiful? The lame man had been there for a long time. Had they never seen him? Yes, they undoubtedly knew about him. But, without the prompting of the Holy Ghost it might not have been wise to try to do anything about the situation.
Acts 3:2 And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted [him] up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.
Jesus at the pool of Bethesda is another example of the TIMING OF THE LORD.
How many incidents can you think about, in which the timing of God was a determining factor?
OUR GREATEST NEED
OUR GREATEST NEED
It is easier to build a Church, or to fill a church than it is to build a congregation of stable, God-fearing saints.
We can build a church with our hands and a few tools. We can fill a church with our personality and a few tricks of the profession.
As much as we need the buildings and the pews full, this is not the ultimate goal of the Spirit of God. If our goals are fixed on these, we have failed before we get started.
God is interested in the Spiritual health and stability of the people who are called by His Name.
A congregation of stable Saints is never the result of tools or tricks. It can only come about as a result of the Man of God being in right relationship with both God and the people, in the Office which he fills.
THE MINISTRY OF THE PASTOR IS
THE PIVOT POINT.
We might as well face it, Brethren, our people are what we make them.
If we use our personality, we will utterly fail to produce lasting results.
If we borrow sermons from whomever, we face the same failure.
If our program was purchased at the Book and Bible House, we had just as well build with cardboard.
Our greatest need today is men and women of God who have cast aside the desire for prestige and good will, and are willing to be the MOUTHPIECE OF GOD.
We need to get on our knees, and stay there until we have heard the Voice of God for the people, and our hearts set afire with the Anointing of His Spirit.
ANYTHING SHORT OF THIS WILL FAIL.
Brethren, let us fall on our faces before God, and repent of our waywardness and shortcomings in this matter. "Let the Priests, the Ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the Altar, and let them say, Spare Thy people, O Lord. Give not Thy Heritage to reproach."
--First printed in THE HERALD OF
TRUTH, Feb. 1992
--Written by Pastor Marion Fretwell
It is easier to build a Church, or to fill a church than it is to build a congregation of stable, God-fearing saints.
We can build a church with our hands and a few tools. We can fill a church with our personality and a few tricks of the profession.
As much as we need the buildings and the pews full, this is not the ultimate goal of the Spirit of God. If our goals are fixed on these, we have failed before we get started.
God is interested in the Spiritual health and stability of the people who are called by His Name.
A congregation of stable Saints is never the result of tools or tricks. It can only come about as a result of the Man of God being in right relationship with both God and the people, in the Office which he fills.
THE MINISTRY OF THE PASTOR IS
THE PIVOT POINT.
We might as well face it, Brethren, our people are what we make them.
If we use our personality, we will utterly fail to produce lasting results.
If we borrow sermons from whomever, we face the same failure.
If our program was purchased at the Book and Bible House, we had just as well build with cardboard.
Our greatest need today is men and women of God who have cast aside the desire for prestige and good will, and are willing to be the MOUTHPIECE OF GOD.
We need to get on our knees, and stay there until we have heard the Voice of God for the people, and our hearts set afire with the Anointing of His Spirit.
ANYTHING SHORT OF THIS WILL FAIL.
Brethren, let us fall on our faces before God, and repent of our waywardness and shortcomings in this matter. "Let the Priests, the Ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the Altar, and let them say, Spare Thy people, O Lord. Give not Thy Heritage to reproach."
--First printed in THE HERALD OF
TRUTH, Feb. 1992
--Written by Pastor Marion Fretwell
IF THOU WILT
IF THOU WILT
One day a leper came to Jesus. We read of it in Mat 8:1 --And, behold, there came a leper and WORSHIPPED him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And Jesus put forth [his] hand, and touched him saying, I will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed.
We read again in Mark 1:40 And there came a leper to him, BESEECHING him, and KNEELING DOWN TO HIM, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.
Again in Luke 5:12 And it came to pass, when he was in a certain city, behold a man full of leprosy: who seeing Jesus FELL ON [HIS] FACE, and BESOUGHT HIM, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.
This man had a need, and he KNEW Jesus could fill that need if He wanted to. His problem was getting Jesus to want to do it, so he thought. The truth was, Jesus was already wanting to do it. He was waiting for the man to come. But notice how the man came. Matthew says that he WORSHIPPED Jesus, and that he spoke words of FAITH in the integrity of Jesus--He COULD DO IT.
Mark says that he came BESEECHING, and KNELT DOWN TO HIM. Luke said that he also FELL ON HIS FACE.
None of us have leprosy, as such. But that man's leprosy could have been a type of some problem we have in ourselves that makes us unclean in the sight of God.
There are many things which we allow in our lives that are not pleasing to God. Luke 16:15 --but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is HIGHLY ESTEEMED AMONG MEN IS ABOMINATION IN THE SIGHT OF GOD.
Jesus is just as ABLE to cleanse our hearts as He was to cleanse that leper. And He is just as WILLING. The problem might be in our manner of approach.
Mark 5:23 tells of a man who BESOUGHT HIM GREATLY.
Mat 15:22 And, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, HAVE MERCY ON ME, O Lord, --- 15:25 Then came she and WORSHIPPED HIM, saying, LORD, HELP ME.
Mark 9:22 tells of the man who came with the lunatic son--: BUT IF THOU CANST DO ANY THING, HAVE COMPASSION ON US, AND HELP US.
Some cases don't respond immediately, but one widow found that DAILY REQUESTS paid off. Luke 18. This is often the case when dealing with bondages and habits of life. David prayed, Psalms 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. We could all use a little bit of that prayer.
To be clean is to put away evil. Isaiah 1:16 Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil;
There IS hope in God. "I will, be thou clean."
One day a leper came to Jesus. We read of it in Mat 8:1 --And, behold, there came a leper and WORSHIPPED him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And Jesus put forth [his] hand, and touched him saying, I will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed.
We read again in Mark 1:40 And there came a leper to him, BESEECHING him, and KNEELING DOWN TO HIM, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.
Again in Luke 5:12 And it came to pass, when he was in a certain city, behold a man full of leprosy: who seeing Jesus FELL ON [HIS] FACE, and BESOUGHT HIM, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.
This man had a need, and he KNEW Jesus could fill that need if He wanted to. His problem was getting Jesus to want to do it, so he thought. The truth was, Jesus was already wanting to do it. He was waiting for the man to come. But notice how the man came. Matthew says that he WORSHIPPED Jesus, and that he spoke words of FAITH in the integrity of Jesus--He COULD DO IT.
Mark says that he came BESEECHING, and KNELT DOWN TO HIM. Luke said that he also FELL ON HIS FACE.
None of us have leprosy, as such. But that man's leprosy could have been a type of some problem we have in ourselves that makes us unclean in the sight of God.
There are many things which we allow in our lives that are not pleasing to God. Luke 16:15 --but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is HIGHLY ESTEEMED AMONG MEN IS ABOMINATION IN THE SIGHT OF GOD.
Jesus is just as ABLE to cleanse our hearts as He was to cleanse that leper. And He is just as WILLING. The problem might be in our manner of approach.
Mark 5:23 tells of a man who BESOUGHT HIM GREATLY.
Mat 15:22 And, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, HAVE MERCY ON ME, O Lord, --- 15:25 Then came she and WORSHIPPED HIM, saying, LORD, HELP ME.
Mark 9:22 tells of the man who came with the lunatic son--: BUT IF THOU CANST DO ANY THING, HAVE COMPASSION ON US, AND HELP US.
Some cases don't respond immediately, but one widow found that DAILY REQUESTS paid off. Luke 18. This is often the case when dealing with bondages and habits of life. David prayed, Psalms 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. We could all use a little bit of that prayer.
To be clean is to put away evil. Isaiah 1:16 Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil;
There IS hope in God. "I will, be thou clean."
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.
MY INHERITANCE
MY INHERITANCE
Ruth 4:6 And the kinsman said, I cannot redeem it for myself, lest I mar mine own inheritance: redeem thou my right to thyself; for I cannot redeem it.
Have you ever wondered what the kinsman had in his own inheritance that would interfere with him buying the field of Elimelech? What would prohibit such a transaction?
The Bible is silent, so we are left to our own imagination. It probably is not important, or we would have been told more about what it was.
Nevertheless, I have pondered many times the possible implications of the statement, and wondered if maybe there might be Christians today who are forced into the same position as that nearer kinsman. Let me explain:
When I was a boy 5 years old, a Pentecostal Evangelist by the name of Mattie Crawford held meetings in Caldwell, Idaho. She pitched a tent and preached a message never before heard in that part of the country-- the Baptism of the Holy Ghost with the evidence of speaking in other tongues. That was 1923-- model T Ford days. We lived south west of Parma-- 20 miles from Caldwell.
Our vehicle was the lowly model T with magneto lights, so we could only attend the afternoon services. That was sufficient, however, for nearly all of those old enough to know what was going on, to get the Holy Ghost baptism. Mighty miracles accompanied the preaching of the message-- convincing miracles.
The family reveled in what they were experiencing-- until. Until, that is, they returned to the little Baptist Church at Roswell.
They wanted none of it, so there was a parting of the ways. Papa would not deny what he had experienced, for the sake of security and fellowship. A few families experienced a cleavage also-- some continuing as Baptists, others walking on in their new found experience.
One day Rev. Cox, Baptist Pastor, called at our house to shepherd the family back to the fold. He cited the benefits of the Northern Baptist Convention-- a strong, well established denomination. He urged Papa to, "Stay with it, right or wrong." We would be safer inside than we would be outside, according to his assessment of the matter. As I remember being told, (for I was too young to know) Papa sternly warned Bro. Cox of the folly of his stance. The move was of God, and they must be very careful what their reaction would be, because they were not dealing with mankind. Bro. Cox stood firm. Papa stood firm.
I can't help but wonder if perhaps some Christians today are refusing to walk on with God in what is evidently of His Spirit, because of a conflicting interest in some sort of an establishment. Rather than risk marring their relationships in something which is established, they turn a deaf ear or a blindfolded eye toward whatever God is trying to give them
Jonathon, by his own admission, knew that David would be the next king of Israel. Yet, he stayed where he was, secure in the realm of his father, Saul. He died there. Could he have lived if he had gone with David to the cave? Scripture doesn't tell us, so again we are free to wonder about it.
Personally, I am "scared to death" of neglecting what is evidently the hand of God, because it would conflict with what I am walking in today. Desperately, I don't want to miss God.
Ruth 4:6 And the kinsman said, I cannot redeem it for myself, lest I mar mine own inheritance: redeem thou my right to thyself; for I cannot redeem it.
Have you ever wondered what the kinsman had in his own inheritance that would interfere with him buying the field of Elimelech? What would prohibit such a transaction?
The Bible is silent, so we are left to our own imagination. It probably is not important, or we would have been told more about what it was.
Nevertheless, I have pondered many times the possible implications of the statement, and wondered if maybe there might be Christians today who are forced into the same position as that nearer kinsman. Let me explain:
When I was a boy 5 years old, a Pentecostal Evangelist by the name of Mattie Crawford held meetings in Caldwell, Idaho. She pitched a tent and preached a message never before heard in that part of the country-- the Baptism of the Holy Ghost with the evidence of speaking in other tongues. That was 1923-- model T Ford days. We lived south west of Parma-- 20 miles from Caldwell.
Our vehicle was the lowly model T with magneto lights, so we could only attend the afternoon services. That was sufficient, however, for nearly all of those old enough to know what was going on, to get the Holy Ghost baptism. Mighty miracles accompanied the preaching of the message-- convincing miracles.
The family reveled in what they were experiencing-- until. Until, that is, they returned to the little Baptist Church at Roswell.
They wanted none of it, so there was a parting of the ways. Papa would not deny what he had experienced, for the sake of security and fellowship. A few families experienced a cleavage also-- some continuing as Baptists, others walking on in their new found experience.
One day Rev. Cox, Baptist Pastor, called at our house to shepherd the family back to the fold. He cited the benefits of the Northern Baptist Convention-- a strong, well established denomination. He urged Papa to, "Stay with it, right or wrong." We would be safer inside than we would be outside, according to his assessment of the matter. As I remember being told, (for I was too young to know) Papa sternly warned Bro. Cox of the folly of his stance. The move was of God, and they must be very careful what their reaction would be, because they were not dealing with mankind. Bro. Cox stood firm. Papa stood firm.
I can't help but wonder if perhaps some Christians today are refusing to walk on with God in what is evidently of His Spirit, because of a conflicting interest in some sort of an establishment. Rather than risk marring their relationships in something which is established, they turn a deaf ear or a blindfolded eye toward whatever God is trying to give them
Jonathon, by his own admission, knew that David would be the next king of Israel. Yet, he stayed where he was, secure in the realm of his father, Saul. He died there. Could he have lived if he had gone with David to the cave? Scripture doesn't tell us, so again we are free to wonder about it.
Personally, I am "scared to death" of neglecting what is evidently the hand of God, because it would conflict with what I am walking in today. Desperately, I don't want to miss God.
Sunday, August 27, 2006
HE GIVETH MORE GRACE
HE GIVETH MORE GRACE
James 4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.
We sometimes sell ourselves short when we think of the Grace that God freely gives to us. We have heard so much about Grace being the "unmerited favor" of God. It is certainly that, but it is much more also.
Grace is a Divine Impartation of God Himself to us which enables us to perform a service to and for Him that we otherwise would be completely unable to do. In other words, it is a Divine Enablement. It is a strength and a know-how to accomplish what needs to be done-- in our own lives, or in the lives of others
The Lord is eager to impart this Grace to each of us, but comparatively few folks are qualified to receive it. There are requirements which we must meet before it will be given to us, no matter how much we might want it.
I Peter 5:5 ---: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:
Notice the word "resisteth" here. If God is resisting us, who can help us? No one.
James 4:10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
We can not make much progress in our Christian life until we can learn how to curtail our pride, and cultivate humility toward God and His desires for our lives. Our flesh loves to vaunt itself, and feel important. If we cater to that, we will have to do without the Grace of God. And we will go without the Power of God in our lives, for it is His Grace which enables us.
I Peter 5:10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle [you].
Men and women of the Bible were able to accomplish great things because they were empowered by the Grace of God.
I Corinthians 15:10 But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which [was bestowed] upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.
Ephesians 3:7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.
Grace is also the antidote for all sin and its consequences.
Romans 5:20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:
II Corinthians 1:12 For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.
Proverbs 3:34 Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly.
Isaiah 57:15 For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name [is] Holy; I dwell in the high and holy [place], with him also [that is] of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.
James 4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.
We sometimes sell ourselves short when we think of the Grace that God freely gives to us. We have heard so much about Grace being the "unmerited favor" of God. It is certainly that, but it is much more also.
Grace is a Divine Impartation of God Himself to us which enables us to perform a service to and for Him that we otherwise would be completely unable to do. In other words, it is a Divine Enablement. It is a strength and a know-how to accomplish what needs to be done-- in our own lives, or in the lives of others
The Lord is eager to impart this Grace to each of us, but comparatively few folks are qualified to receive it. There are requirements which we must meet before it will be given to us, no matter how much we might want it.
I Peter 5:5 ---: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:
Notice the word "resisteth" here. If God is resisting us, who can help us? No one.
James 4:10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
We can not make much progress in our Christian life until we can learn how to curtail our pride, and cultivate humility toward God and His desires for our lives. Our flesh loves to vaunt itself, and feel important. If we cater to that, we will have to do without the Grace of God. And we will go without the Power of God in our lives, for it is His Grace which enables us.
I Peter 5:10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle [you].
Men and women of the Bible were able to accomplish great things because they were empowered by the Grace of God.
I Corinthians 15:10 But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which [was bestowed] upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.
Ephesians 3:7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.
Grace is also the antidote for all sin and its consequences.
Romans 5:20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:
II Corinthians 1:12 For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.
Proverbs 3:34 Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly.
Isaiah 57:15 For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name [is] Holy; I dwell in the high and holy [place], with him also [that is] of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.
FARSIGHTED
FARSIGHTED
Peter, in his second epistle, gives us a sure-fire recipe to cure any "near-sightedness" in our Christian experience. It is guaranteed to work.
Here it is:
Start with "your faith". Diligently add:
Virtue (strength of character, principles of manhood)
Knowledge (thoroughly acquainted with God).
Temperance (stability, not given to extremes)
Patience (remaining stedfast in all conditions) Godliness (integrity and sobriety, righteousness)
Brotherly kindness (genuine concern for others)
II Peter 1:5 ---For if these things be in you, and abound, they make [you that ye shall] neither [be] barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.
Abraham, and others of the Heroes of Faith, were able to see far beyond the time frame of their existance on earth.
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.
Most of our discouragements could be prevented by simple addition of Christian Graces to our lives. Discouragement can also be cured in the same way.
I can't tell you the "mechanics" of it, any more than I can tell you how Aspirin raises our threshold of pain. But I know it works.
The closer we walk to the Lord, the greater our understanding and appreciation of Him becomes. Faith increases or decreases in direct proportion to our relationship to Jesus.
Do we want more faith? Pray more.
Do we want to know more about God? Read His Word more.
Do we want to know His Will for our lives? Do what you already know.
John 7:17 If any man will do his will, he shall know---.
Psalms 25:9 The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.
Psalms 25:14 The secret of the LORD [is] with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant.
Psalms 119:34 Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with [my] whole heart.
Proverbs 11:3 The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.
Hosea 6:3 Then shall we know, [if] we follow on to know the LORD: his going forth is prepared as the morning;--.
Peter, in his second epistle, gives us a sure-fire recipe to cure any "near-sightedness" in our Christian experience. It is guaranteed to work.
Here it is:
Start with "your faith". Diligently add:
Virtue (strength of character, principles of manhood)
Knowledge (thoroughly acquainted with God).
Temperance (stability, not given to extremes)
Patience (remaining stedfast in all conditions) Godliness (integrity and sobriety, righteousness)
Brotherly kindness (genuine concern for others)
II Peter 1:5 ---For if these things be in you, and abound, they make [you that ye shall] neither [be] barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.
Abraham, and others of the Heroes of Faith, were able to see far beyond the time frame of their existance on earth.
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.
Most of our discouragements could be prevented by simple addition of Christian Graces to our lives. Discouragement can also be cured in the same way.
I can't tell you the "mechanics" of it, any more than I can tell you how Aspirin raises our threshold of pain. But I know it works.
The closer we walk to the Lord, the greater our understanding and appreciation of Him becomes. Faith increases or decreases in direct proportion to our relationship to Jesus.
Do we want more faith? Pray more.
Do we want to know more about God? Read His Word more.
Do we want to know His Will for our lives? Do what you already know.
John 7:17 If any man will do his will, he shall know---.
Psalms 25:9 The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.
Psalms 25:14 The secret of the LORD [is] with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant.
Psalms 119:34 Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with [my] whole heart.
Proverbs 11:3 The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.
Hosea 6:3 Then shall we know, [if] we follow on to know the LORD: his going forth is prepared as the morning;--.
COMING TO THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE TRUTH
COMING TO THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE TRUTH
John 18:38 Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? That question has been asked multitudes of times since Pilate asked it. No one is able to give an answer that will satisfy every person or group of believers. It means one thing to some-- another thing to others.
Pilate asked this question in response to a statement Jesus had made to him. John 18:37 Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.
I made a specific study of the subject one time, to see if I could find what is hidden from our view when we think of Truth. I had already concluded that it was NOT referring to modes of baptism, the Godhead, nor the basic plan of Salvation. I thought, also, that I could safely rule out the various Prophetic interpretations and teachings that have become threadbare with age and (mis)use. But, What was Jesus referring to when He used the word "truth"?
Was Jesus talking about the same thing that Paul was referring to when he wrote--? II Timothy 3:7 Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Paul used the "epi" word here for "knowledge" (epignosis-- knowledge above knowledge).
Does it take a special "knowledge upon knowledge" to learn The Truth Jesus was referring to? There are so many places in the New Testament where "epignosis" is used that it might seem to indicate that we CANNOT FIND REAL TRUTH when we operate only in the natural wisdom and abilities which we have.
I am convinced that we must get into a higher realm of relationship to Jesus if we are to enjoy many of the things which were purchased for us on Calvary.
Listen to Paul, when he writes to the Ephesian saints: Ephesians 1:16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may GIVE UNTO YOU the SPIRIT OF WISDOM AND REVELATION IN THE KNOWLEDGE (epignosis-- knowledge upon knowledge) OF HIM: The EYES OF YOUR
UNDERSTANDING being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what [is] the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set [him] at his own right hand in the heavenly [places], Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:
What did I find when I made the study in search of a better meaning of Truth? I found that TRUTH, as Jesus referred to it, is inseparably linked with GRACE. John 1:17 For the law was given by Moses, [but] GRACE and TRUTH came by Jesus Christ. John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of GRACE and TRUTH.
It is also linked solidly with the Spirit of God. John 4:23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in SPIRIT and in TRUTH: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. John 4:24 God [is] a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship [him] in SPIRIT and in TRUTH.
TRUTH goes far beyond mere doctrinal beliefs and practices. The secret of understanding TRUTH lies in the fact that it has been CONTRASTED to, of all things, the LAW OF MOSES.
That LAW had no REALITY in it. It had no LIFE in it. It was "make believe", only a model of something which WOULD BE REAL.
The LAW had no mercy, no GRACE in it. Only stern rules and regulations and lifeless ceremonies.
GRACE came in JESUS CHRIST. TRUTH came in JESUS CHRIST. TRUTH is a RELATIONSHIP to God through JESUS CHRIST. It is REALITY of JESUS IN OUR LIVES.
We can worship Him in SPIRIT and in TRUTH.
John 18:38 Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? That question has been asked multitudes of times since Pilate asked it. No one is able to give an answer that will satisfy every person or group of believers. It means one thing to some-- another thing to others.
Pilate asked this question in response to a statement Jesus had made to him. John 18:37 Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.
I made a specific study of the subject one time, to see if I could find what is hidden from our view when we think of Truth. I had already concluded that it was NOT referring to modes of baptism, the Godhead, nor the basic plan of Salvation. I thought, also, that I could safely rule out the various Prophetic interpretations and teachings that have become threadbare with age and (mis)use. But, What was Jesus referring to when He used the word "truth"?
Was Jesus talking about the same thing that Paul was referring to when he wrote--? II Timothy 3:7 Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Paul used the "epi" word here for "knowledge" (epignosis-- knowledge above knowledge).
Does it take a special "knowledge upon knowledge" to learn The Truth Jesus was referring to? There are so many places in the New Testament where "epignosis" is used that it might seem to indicate that we CANNOT FIND REAL TRUTH when we operate only in the natural wisdom and abilities which we have.
I am convinced that we must get into a higher realm of relationship to Jesus if we are to enjoy many of the things which were purchased for us on Calvary.
Listen to Paul, when he writes to the Ephesian saints: Ephesians 1:16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may GIVE UNTO YOU the SPIRIT OF WISDOM AND REVELATION IN THE KNOWLEDGE (epignosis-- knowledge upon knowledge) OF HIM: The EYES OF YOUR
UNDERSTANDING being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what [is] the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set [him] at his own right hand in the heavenly [places], Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:
What did I find when I made the study in search of a better meaning of Truth? I found that TRUTH, as Jesus referred to it, is inseparably linked with GRACE. John 1:17 For the law was given by Moses, [but] GRACE and TRUTH came by Jesus Christ. John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of GRACE and TRUTH.
It is also linked solidly with the Spirit of God. John 4:23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in SPIRIT and in TRUTH: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. John 4:24 God [is] a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship [him] in SPIRIT and in TRUTH.
TRUTH goes far beyond mere doctrinal beliefs and practices. The secret of understanding TRUTH lies in the fact that it has been CONTRASTED to, of all things, the LAW OF MOSES.
That LAW had no REALITY in it. It had no LIFE in it. It was "make believe", only a model of something which WOULD BE REAL.
The LAW had no mercy, no GRACE in it. Only stern rules and regulations and lifeless ceremonies.
GRACE came in JESUS CHRIST. TRUTH came in JESUS CHRIST. TRUTH is a RELATIONSHIP to God through JESUS CHRIST. It is REALITY of JESUS IN OUR LIVES.
We can worship Him in SPIRIT and in TRUTH.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
EXCELLENCE
EXCELLENCE
In these times of competition and rivalry, it would be well if we take a good look at personal excellence.
One of the most widely known forms of competition is the Olympic Games, which are held every so often. Athletes from all over the world join in the competition. All of the participants dream of, and hope to attain to, the gold cup. But, of course, it always narrows down to one person getting the coveted prize.
But, in Spiritual attainments it is not so. We can ALL excel, and obtain, the coveted prize.
We do NOT COMPETE AGAINST OTHERS. We strive against the tendencies of our own flesh-- our own nature-- our own personal desires.
I Corinthians 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. 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. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: 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.
The athletes of ancient Greece, and the Olympics were NOT COMPETING WITH ONE ANOTHER for the sake of a personal prize. Rather, the winner-- the best-- the fastest-- the one who received the slip of paper, or the ribbon, took it immediately and laid it at the feet of the statue of their god. It was a race, then, to achieve the absolute utmost for their idol deity.
IT WAS A QUEST FOR EXCELLENCE, rather than for recognition and fame. Only their best was fit to be offered to their god. What SEEMED to be competition against one another, then, was actually an exercise to determine what was the best to be had, for an offering.
We Christians might be able to learn something from those Greeks of ancient times. Maybe we should examine our motives for doing some of the things we do every day.
Are we competing with others, or are we stiving to be the very best we can be ourselves?
In these times of competition and rivalry, it would be well if we take a good look at personal excellence.
One of the most widely known forms of competition is the Olympic Games, which are held every so often. Athletes from all over the world join in the competition. All of the participants dream of, and hope to attain to, the gold cup. But, of course, it always narrows down to one person getting the coveted prize.
But, in Spiritual attainments it is not so. We can ALL excel, and obtain, the coveted prize.
We do NOT COMPETE AGAINST OTHERS. We strive against the tendencies of our own flesh-- our own nature-- our own personal desires.
I Corinthians 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. 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. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: 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.
The athletes of ancient Greece, and the Olympics were NOT COMPETING WITH ONE ANOTHER for the sake of a personal prize. Rather, the winner-- the best-- the fastest-- the one who received the slip of paper, or the ribbon, took it immediately and laid it at the feet of the statue of their god. It was a race, then, to achieve the absolute utmost for their idol deity.
IT WAS A QUEST FOR EXCELLENCE, rather than for recognition and fame. Only their best was fit to be offered to their god. What SEEMED to be competition against one another, then, was actually an exercise to determine what was the best to be had, for an offering.
We Christians might be able to learn something from those Greeks of ancient times. Maybe we should examine our motives for doing some of the things we do every day.
Are we competing with others, or are we stiving to be the very best we can be ourselves?
EXCEPT THOU BLESS ME
EXCEPT THOU BLESS ME
Genesis 32:26 And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I will not let thee go, except thou bless me.
When Jacob wrestled with the Angel of the Lord, he was ALONE. If he had been helped by anyone, he probably would not have broken through to victory. But he did break through-- and what a victory it turned out to be.
His NATURE and his NAME were both changed. The price was very high, however. He walked dragging one leg for the rest of his life. God Himself had TOUCHED him, and that TOUCH wrought a definite change in the life of Jacob. CHANGED BY THE TOUCH OF GOD ALMIGHTY.
If we are willing to pay the price, our lives can also be changed by God's power.
Hebrews 11:6 But without faith [it is] impossible to please [him]: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and [that] he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
To receive the touch that Jacob did, we must expect to pay a high price in our seeking God. But IF WE ARE WILLING to pay that price, we can attain to the miracle of Regeneration.
The butterfly is a good example of a life which has been completely transformed. The ugly, lowly caterpillar spins its own death cell around itself, and dies to its former life. Out of that self-death emerges the beautiful butterfly.
However, emerging as a creature of beauty is also a SOLITARY EVENT. No one dares to "help" the process along, or the new life does not come forth. Christians should stay away from Counselors, however well intentioned they may be. Only God can cause the transformation to be complete and perfect. It HAS TO BE A WORK OF THE SPIRIT ALONE. HE is the ULTIMATE COUNSELOR. STAY WITH HIM.
Our wrestlings may produce blisters and sores in our lives, but they will be forgotten when we have broken through to victory over our former life, into a new life-- CHANGED BY THE TOUCH OF HIS HAND.
Always remember that God is more interested in you emerging into the New Life than you are. HE usually initiates the circumstances which bring about the struggles in your life-- because He LOVES YOU.
Genesis 32:26 And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I will not let thee go, except thou bless me.
When Jacob wrestled with the Angel of the Lord, he was ALONE. If he had been helped by anyone, he probably would not have broken through to victory. But he did break through-- and what a victory it turned out to be.
His NATURE and his NAME were both changed. The price was very high, however. He walked dragging one leg for the rest of his life. God Himself had TOUCHED him, and that TOUCH wrought a definite change in the life of Jacob. CHANGED BY THE TOUCH OF GOD ALMIGHTY.
If we are willing to pay the price, our lives can also be changed by God's power.
Hebrews 11:6 But without faith [it is] impossible to please [him]: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and [that] he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
To receive the touch that Jacob did, we must expect to pay a high price in our seeking God. But IF WE ARE WILLING to pay that price, we can attain to the miracle of Regeneration.
The butterfly is a good example of a life which has been completely transformed. The ugly, lowly caterpillar spins its own death cell around itself, and dies to its former life. Out of that self-death emerges the beautiful butterfly.
However, emerging as a creature of beauty is also a SOLITARY EVENT. No one dares to "help" the process along, or the new life does not come forth. Christians should stay away from Counselors, however well intentioned they may be. Only God can cause the transformation to be complete and perfect. It HAS TO BE A WORK OF THE SPIRIT ALONE. HE is the ULTIMATE COUNSELOR. STAY WITH HIM.
Our wrestlings may produce blisters and sores in our lives, but they will be forgotten when we have broken through to victory over our former life, into a new life-- CHANGED BY THE TOUCH OF HIS HAND.
Always remember that God is more interested in you emerging into the New Life than you are. HE usually initiates the circumstances which bring about the struggles in your life-- because He LOVES YOU.
WHAT IS FAITH
WHAT IS FAITH?
Most explanations of Faith leave me with quite a bit to be desired. It seems that most Christians today are "geared" for "getting" from God. Leaders are taking advantage of that lustful longing, and teaching mostly about the "getting" faith.
"Believe for your miracle today" is the principal theme we hear.
But I am fairly well convinced that the real meaning of Heb 11:1 does not lend itself to such a theme, if we take it in its context.
Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
The writer of the Epistle to The Hebrews (be it Barnabas or Paul) is making a contrast between the way Israel knew God under the Old Covenant, and the way we can know Him today.
The Old Covenant provided ceremonies as a substitute for a correct relationship to God, ie. a life that was free from the outworkings of the nature of sin in the life of the person. Ceremonies, and human priests were the only contact with God they were privileged to know-- UNLESS.
Unless, that is, that God should choose to REVEAL the CONTACT OF FAITH to the individual. He did this to some whom He chose. The choosing of individuals to whom He would reveal Himself was by a criteria as yet not known to me. I will have to leave that in His department.
As I see it, the Faith written about in Hebrews is that element of trusting in the Messiah (before Calvary, and Jesus after Calvary) for the ultimate destiny of their souls. The Old Testament believers of Faith continued to observe the ceremonies of the Law, but their REAL CONFIDENCE was in the provision God had made in Jesus Christ.
Indeed, all of the ceremonies POINTED TO JESUS, if their eyes could have seen it. BUT IT CAME ONLY BY REVELATION FROM GOD.
The same is true of us today. We cannot be TAUGHT Faith to believe in Jesus for Salvation.
The Spirit REVEALS Faith to us, or we don't get it. The same "conviction" that draws us to Jesus REVEALS Faith to us.
Hebrews 11 is telling us that the people who did the exploits (and triumphantly endured the persecutions and tortures) were people to whom God had REVEALED the same Saving Faith that He reveals to us when we are drawn to Him by His Holy Spirit.
It is a DIFFERENT RELATIONSHIP TO GOD than was commonly known in the Old Testament.
No wonder the key word of Hebrews is "BETTER".
We could put an ADDENDUM TO THE 11TH CHAPTER OF HEBREWS, and say that BY FAITH:
Paul became the Apostle who wrote most of the New Testament epistles-- was stoned, imprisoned, etc. etc.
Peter delivered the sermon on the Day of Pentecost that caused the salvation of so many. He said to the lame man at the gate Beautiful, "Silver and gold have I none, but such as I have give I unto you. In the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk."
William Tyndale translated the Bible into everyday English, and his translation was to
become nearly 70 % of the King James Version of the Bible.
John Huss, as he was being killed for his resistance to the existing powers of the Church, said, "You can kill the Goose (Huss), but in a hundred years there will come a Swan (Luther) whose song you can not still, who will accomplish what I have tried to do."
Martin Luther did accomplish the beginning of what is called the Reformation of the Church.
There are many others, but this will suffice to show what man can do as a RESULT of a REVELATION and ANOINTING OF GOD for a specific purpose.
God is anointing men yet today, and history will hail them as having done exploits for God, though they are in low esteem today. We still garnish the sepulchres of the Prophets, but fail to recognize them in our midst.
Turn your Faith loose! DO WHAT GOD HAS CHOSEN FOR YOU TO DO! OBEY THE ANOINTING ON YOUR LIFE!
Most explanations of Faith leave me with quite a bit to be desired. It seems that most Christians today are "geared" for "getting" from God. Leaders are taking advantage of that lustful longing, and teaching mostly about the "getting" faith.
"Believe for your miracle today" is the principal theme we hear.
But I am fairly well convinced that the real meaning of Heb 11:1 does not lend itself to such a theme, if we take it in its context.
Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
The writer of the Epistle to The Hebrews (be it Barnabas or Paul) is making a contrast between the way Israel knew God under the Old Covenant, and the way we can know Him today.
The Old Covenant provided ceremonies as a substitute for a correct relationship to God, ie. a life that was free from the outworkings of the nature of sin in the life of the person. Ceremonies, and human priests were the only contact with God they were privileged to know-- UNLESS.
Unless, that is, that God should choose to REVEAL the CONTACT OF FAITH to the individual. He did this to some whom He chose. The choosing of individuals to whom He would reveal Himself was by a criteria as yet not known to me. I will have to leave that in His department.
As I see it, the Faith written about in Hebrews is that element of trusting in the Messiah (before Calvary, and Jesus after Calvary) for the ultimate destiny of their souls. The Old Testament believers of Faith continued to observe the ceremonies of the Law, but their REAL CONFIDENCE was in the provision God had made in Jesus Christ.
Indeed, all of the ceremonies POINTED TO JESUS, if their eyes could have seen it. BUT IT CAME ONLY BY REVELATION FROM GOD.
The same is true of us today. We cannot be TAUGHT Faith to believe in Jesus for Salvation.
The Spirit REVEALS Faith to us, or we don't get it. The same "conviction" that draws us to Jesus REVEALS Faith to us.
Hebrews 11 is telling us that the people who did the exploits (and triumphantly endured the persecutions and tortures) were people to whom God had REVEALED the same Saving Faith that He reveals to us when we are drawn to Him by His Holy Spirit.
It is a DIFFERENT RELATIONSHIP TO GOD than was commonly known in the Old Testament.
No wonder the key word of Hebrews is "BETTER".
We could put an ADDENDUM TO THE 11TH CHAPTER OF HEBREWS, and say that BY FAITH:
Paul became the Apostle who wrote most of the New Testament epistles-- was stoned, imprisoned, etc. etc.
Peter delivered the sermon on the Day of Pentecost that caused the salvation of so many. He said to the lame man at the gate Beautiful, "Silver and gold have I none, but such as I have give I unto you. In the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk."
William Tyndale translated the Bible into everyday English, and his translation was to
become nearly 70 % of the King James Version of the Bible.
John Huss, as he was being killed for his resistance to the existing powers of the Church, said, "You can kill the Goose (Huss), but in a hundred years there will come a Swan (Luther) whose song you can not still, who will accomplish what I have tried to do."
Martin Luther did accomplish the beginning of what is called the Reformation of the Church.
There are many others, but this will suffice to show what man can do as a RESULT of a REVELATION and ANOINTING OF GOD for a specific purpose.
God is anointing men yet today, and history will hail them as having done exploits for God, though they are in low esteem today. We still garnish the sepulchres of the Prophets, but fail to recognize them in our midst.
Turn your Faith loose! DO WHAT GOD HAS CHOSEN FOR YOU TO DO! OBEY THE ANOINTING ON YOUR LIFE!
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