FROM THE INTERNET
A while back I posted “ONE NEW MAN”, from our January 2006 issue, on an Internet forum. The following exchange resulted.
Okay, group, let's get personal about this. Has God
ever done something that did not line up with *your* understanding of the Word? Care to share? What did the experience teach you?
MARION SEZ: HE SURE HAS!!!
The most recent, and perhaps the most life-changing, took place just this year. It happened this way:
Back in 1959 or 1960, I was working in a warehouse where bales of hops were re-compressed for shipping around the world. The finished product weighed about 433 pounds each. One would come down the line about every 15 minutes or so, and my job was to wrap it with steel strapping in four places. When we finished, my partner and I grabbed it and stood it up on end for the man with the hand truck to truck it away to the loading dock.
We were not allowed to talk, so I occupied my mind with memorizing scripture in the book of Isaiah. I had the basic ideas of some of the chapters (53 to 61), but could not "get a handle on them", because I was still too bogged down with the "Theory of Ribera", as I have lately been calling it. He was one of the two Jesuit Priests that the Pope commissioned to "Get the heat off the Catholic Church". The Reformation preachers were pointing to the Papacy and calling it the antichrist, and the heat was becoming unbearable.
According to those who have studied the matter, Ribera published a 500 page manuscript in 1590 in which he successfully changed the curriculum of the Church.
The changes included, but were not confined to, re-interpreting the books of Daniel and Revelation, and directing the attention of students of Prophecy to the last seven years of the Church dispensation.
He successfully directed attention away from the Papacy, and focused attention on a future "one-man antichrist", a future "mark of the beast"-- the whole "ball of wax", or the "whole nine yards". This also, of necessity, included the restoration and evangelization of the family of Israel, which, according to traditional knowledge, is/was made up of only what are known as the Jews.
I didn't see how even the Lord could accomplish so much in seven years, but I knew He could do whatever He wanted to do. I had to leave it at that, for my feeble brain could only stand a small amount of pressure.
Then, one day last September (or was it October 2005), The Lord suddenly brought several things into sharper focus for me (this time in my SPIRIT instead of my mind).
I re-read Isaiah 49, and as I did, the Lord seemed to "lay it all out" before me.
I had preached several times about the "work of the Messiah" from chapter 49, but always had to "work around" the fact that the Lord seemed to be calling the Messiah by the name of Israel. It was as "clear as mud" to me.
NOT ANY MORE! For when the Lord opened my eyes to what He has done, and is presently doing in the earth, the horizon of my understanding changed completely.
Suddenly, I saw Abraham, and the Promise, in a new light. I saw Jesus Christ in a new light. I saw Calvary in a new light. I saw Pentecost in a new light. History of the Church changed. History of the World changed.
And the FUTURE, well that is a story all by itself. RIBERA WAS WRONG! DEVILISHLY WRONG !!!
And the lights of revelations are still going on! I have no idea when or where it will end.
THE FUTURE IS NOTHING BUT BRIGHT! GOD IS IN "RESTORATION MODE" NOW ! GOD IS IN CONTROL. GOD IS “CALLING THE SHOTS.”
BLESSED BE GOD !!!!
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
HIS OWN WILL
HIS OWN WILL
To hear some Bible expositors, one could begin to wonder who is "running the show", as the saying goes. So many leaders are mustering all the support possible for the particular project which has captured their attention at the time. They each want us to drop everything else and run to their support. Each is fighting some supposed enemy, which will destroy humanity if left unchecked. Each of them believes that they are the one whom God has designated to thwart the attacks of the "enemy", and THEY MUST HAVE OUR HELP IMMEDIATELY.
Personally, I doubt the validity of most, if not all, of such claims. I fail to comprehend that the world is "going to hell in a hand basket" if we fail to rally around some "cause" to keep the earth in orbit.
A few mornings ago, I wakened with a portion of scripture running through my mind which sort of "boxed my compass" and reaffirmed in my mind that God is now, and always has been, in complete control of the affairs of mankind. The portion of scripture was:
Ephesians 1:11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him WHO WORKETH ALL THINGS AFTER THE COUNSEL OF HIS OWN WILL:
I guess I should have started importing scripture with verse 9, for Paul begins to write about the purpose of God in all that He has done in the past, is doing now, and will do in the future.
Ephesians 1:9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his GOOD PLEASURE WHICH HE HATH PURPOSED IN HIMSELF: That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; [even] in him:
It gives me great comfort to realize that whatever God has purposed, God will perform. He doesn't need any help. IT WILL BE ACCOMPLISHED. IT WILL BE COMPLETELY ON SCHEDULE.
Isaiah 46:10 Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times [the things] that are not [yet] done, saying, MY COUNSEL SHALL STAND, and I will DO ALL MY PLEASURE:
Proverbs 19:21 [There are] many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.
Psalms 33:10 The LORD bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought: he maketh the devices (plans, schemes, efforts) of the people of none effect. The COUNSEL OF THE LORD STANDETH FOR EVER, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.
Listen to the advice Gamaliel gave to the Leaders in Israel when they were discussing ways to stop the preaching of the early Apostles.
Acts 5:38 And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: BUT IF IT BE OF GOD, YE CANNOT OVERTHROW IT; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.
Hebrews 6:17 Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed [it] by an oath: That by two immutable things, in which [it was] impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:
Who helped the Lord bring Jesus Christ on the scene at precisely the right day? HE DID IT BY HIMSELF. Was the world ready for Him to arrive? Did they "have the stage set" for Him by their extensive preparation? You know the answer.
Who "helped" God take the children of Israel out of Egypt on the night of that first Passover? NO ONE!
From whom did He seek permission to pour out of His Spirit upon the believers on the Day of Pentecost? NO ONE!
Will He ask for, or need, our help or permission to do the "Quick work" which He has promised to do in the near future? HE WILL DO IT HIMSELF!
I am sure He will be able to get the job done-- with or without any help or permission from either you or me.
That's the sort of God we are dealing with.
To hear some Bible expositors, one could begin to wonder who is "running the show", as the saying goes. So many leaders are mustering all the support possible for the particular project which has captured their attention at the time. They each want us to drop everything else and run to their support. Each is fighting some supposed enemy, which will destroy humanity if left unchecked. Each of them believes that they are the one whom God has designated to thwart the attacks of the "enemy", and THEY MUST HAVE OUR HELP IMMEDIATELY.
Personally, I doubt the validity of most, if not all, of such claims. I fail to comprehend that the world is "going to hell in a hand basket" if we fail to rally around some "cause" to keep the earth in orbit.
A few mornings ago, I wakened with a portion of scripture running through my mind which sort of "boxed my compass" and reaffirmed in my mind that God is now, and always has been, in complete control of the affairs of mankind. The portion of scripture was:
Ephesians 1:11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him WHO WORKETH ALL THINGS AFTER THE COUNSEL OF HIS OWN WILL:
I guess I should have started importing scripture with verse 9, for Paul begins to write about the purpose of God in all that He has done in the past, is doing now, and will do in the future.
Ephesians 1:9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his GOOD PLEASURE WHICH HE HATH PURPOSED IN HIMSELF: That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; [even] in him:
It gives me great comfort to realize that whatever God has purposed, God will perform. He doesn't need any help. IT WILL BE ACCOMPLISHED. IT WILL BE COMPLETELY ON SCHEDULE.
Isaiah 46:10 Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times [the things] that are not [yet] done, saying, MY COUNSEL SHALL STAND, and I will DO ALL MY PLEASURE:
Proverbs 19:21 [There are] many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.
Psalms 33:10 The LORD bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought: he maketh the devices (plans, schemes, efforts) of the people of none effect. The COUNSEL OF THE LORD STANDETH FOR EVER, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.
Listen to the advice Gamaliel gave to the Leaders in Israel when they were discussing ways to stop the preaching of the early Apostles.
Acts 5:38 And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: BUT IF IT BE OF GOD, YE CANNOT OVERTHROW IT; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.
Hebrews 6:17 Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed [it] by an oath: That by two immutable things, in which [it was] impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:
Who helped the Lord bring Jesus Christ on the scene at precisely the right day? HE DID IT BY HIMSELF. Was the world ready for Him to arrive? Did they "have the stage set" for Him by their extensive preparation? You know the answer.
Who "helped" God take the children of Israel out of Egypt on the night of that first Passover? NO ONE!
From whom did He seek permission to pour out of His Spirit upon the believers on the Day of Pentecost? NO ONE!
Will He ask for, or need, our help or permission to do the "Quick work" which He has promised to do in the near future? HE WILL DO IT HIMSELF!
I am sure He will be able to get the job done-- with or without any help or permission from either you or me.
That's the sort of God we are dealing with.
HOPE IN HIS MERCY
HOPE IN HIS MERCY
While reading my Bible the other evening, a verse "stood out" to me. It was Psa 147:10-11
Psalms 147:10-11 He delighteth not in the strength of the horse: he taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man. THE LORD TAKETH PLEASURE IN THEM THAT FEAR HIM, IN THOSE THAT HOPE IN HIS MERCY.
Another one, very similar to it, is Psalms 33:17-18 An horse [is] a vain thing for safety: neither shall he deliver [any] by his great strength. Behold, the eye of the LORD [is] upon them that fear him, upon them that HOPE IN HIS MERCY;
In David's day, a horse was about the most powerful thing they knew about. They were fast, and agile on their feet. A good war horse was also relatively fearless-- the epitome of military power in the time of David. But in the Spirit, David was caused to write that the Lord took no delight in the horse and its strength. It was also vain to trust in the strength and ability of the horse.
Our present-day equivalent of the Horse could easily be the Humvee, the Apache helicopter, the Stealth Bomber, or a dozen or so other pieces of equipment.
God needs NONE OF THESE THINGS for his plans and purposes.
Rather, the Lord would take notice of, and take pleasure in, those who FEAR HIM AND HOPE IN HIS MERCY.
I had a hard time getting away from those verses. They "grabbed" me, as if they had a message to give to me. So, I lingered a while, wondering what the Lord would tell me.
Finally, it began to come through to me that too many of us are keenly aware of our position in the things of the Lord and His Church. We try to maintain a high standard of righteousness and holiness-- believing that it would get us favor with the Lord when the "goodies" were passed out. Without realizing what we are doing, we tend to compare our degree of attainment with that of other people-- usually putting ourselves a bit higher on the scale than we do them.
It is a very subtle deception we indulge in, for A GOOD PERCENTAGE OF WHAT WE CALL RIGHTEOUSNESS OR HOLINESS IS COSMETIC ONLY, APPLIED WHEN WE ARE GOING OUT, TO CHURCH OR TO OTHER FUNCTIONS.
The "standards" which are enjoined and encouraged, have become a measuring device by which we gauge ourselves and others. Can it be that this has become a "horse" to us?
Personally, a few years ago, I was brought to the place where the most important thing I could do when in the presence of the Lord was to repent. No, there was not known sin in my life-- I had not committed some dastardly deeds. Rather, there was an overwhelming sense of an inability to muster up righteousness or holiness within myself. I COULD NOT DEPEND ON MY KNOWLEDGE OF THE WORD, NOR THE FACT THAT I HAD MINISTERED THE WORD FOR MANY YEARS. THOSE WERE GOOD, BUT THEY DIDN'T PAY THE BILL.
The Lord gave me a space of repentance, but I didn't know what to repent of. Gradually it began to take shape, and I could see where the Lord was leading me. I CAME TO ACTUALLY ENJOY BEING LOW AT HIS FEET. It brought a sense of completeness that my correct doctrine had never done. My righteousness and holiness were likewise totally inadequate to bring the sense of completeness.
Then, one day a light turned on around me-- giving me an understanding of a scripture I had never understood. Matthew 5:4 Blessed [are] they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
It seemed that the Lord was trying to tell me that my repentance had been the essence of "MOURNING" OVER THE INABILITY OF MY FLESH AND MY WILL TO PRODUCE THE KIND OF RIGHTEOUSNESS AND HOLINESS I HAD THOUGHT I HAD.
THE RIGHTEOUSNESS AND HOLINESS WHICH HE LOOKS FOR IS THAT WHICH ONLY HIS SPIRIT CAN PRODUCE IN OUR LIVES. It is not anything of our own making, which is mostly external in nature.
My repentance, then, was the Lord leading me into a mourning because of my inability to produce the true fruit of righteousness and holiness. Well, if they can not please God, what good are they? They are good to help me avoid evil activity, BUT THEY WILL NEVER COMPLETELY SATISFY GOD-- MAINLY BECAUSE THEY WERE PRODUCED MORE FOR THE EYES OF MEN THAN FOR THE EYES OF GOD.
Now, these scriptures show me that God delights in and has pleasure in those persons who fear (respect) Him and HOPE IN HIS MERCY.
This helps me. It quiets my spirit. It gives me a sense of direction-- a plan of activity.
If my "horse" is inadequate, the only thing left for me to do is to HOPE IN HIS MERCY.
Maybe that is just where the Lord was wanting me to come to-- stripping me of all of my own efforts, and putting my sole hope in Him.
While reading my Bible the other evening, a verse "stood out" to me. It was Psa 147:10-11
Psalms 147:10-11 He delighteth not in the strength of the horse: he taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man. THE LORD TAKETH PLEASURE IN THEM THAT FEAR HIM, IN THOSE THAT HOPE IN HIS MERCY.
Another one, very similar to it, is Psalms 33:17-18 An horse [is] a vain thing for safety: neither shall he deliver [any] by his great strength. Behold, the eye of the LORD [is] upon them that fear him, upon them that HOPE IN HIS MERCY;
In David's day, a horse was about the most powerful thing they knew about. They were fast, and agile on their feet. A good war horse was also relatively fearless-- the epitome of military power in the time of David. But in the Spirit, David was caused to write that the Lord took no delight in the horse and its strength. It was also vain to trust in the strength and ability of the horse.
Our present-day equivalent of the Horse could easily be the Humvee, the Apache helicopter, the Stealth Bomber, or a dozen or so other pieces of equipment.
God needs NONE OF THESE THINGS for his plans and purposes.
Rather, the Lord would take notice of, and take pleasure in, those who FEAR HIM AND HOPE IN HIS MERCY.
I had a hard time getting away from those verses. They "grabbed" me, as if they had a message to give to me. So, I lingered a while, wondering what the Lord would tell me.
Finally, it began to come through to me that too many of us are keenly aware of our position in the things of the Lord and His Church. We try to maintain a high standard of righteousness and holiness-- believing that it would get us favor with the Lord when the "goodies" were passed out. Without realizing what we are doing, we tend to compare our degree of attainment with that of other people-- usually putting ourselves a bit higher on the scale than we do them.
It is a very subtle deception we indulge in, for A GOOD PERCENTAGE OF WHAT WE CALL RIGHTEOUSNESS OR HOLINESS IS COSMETIC ONLY, APPLIED WHEN WE ARE GOING OUT, TO CHURCH OR TO OTHER FUNCTIONS.
The "standards" which are enjoined and encouraged, have become a measuring device by which we gauge ourselves and others. Can it be that this has become a "horse" to us?
Personally, a few years ago, I was brought to the place where the most important thing I could do when in the presence of the Lord was to repent. No, there was not known sin in my life-- I had not committed some dastardly deeds. Rather, there was an overwhelming sense of an inability to muster up righteousness or holiness within myself. I COULD NOT DEPEND ON MY KNOWLEDGE OF THE WORD, NOR THE FACT THAT I HAD MINISTERED THE WORD FOR MANY YEARS. THOSE WERE GOOD, BUT THEY DIDN'T PAY THE BILL.
The Lord gave me a space of repentance, but I didn't know what to repent of. Gradually it began to take shape, and I could see where the Lord was leading me. I CAME TO ACTUALLY ENJOY BEING LOW AT HIS FEET. It brought a sense of completeness that my correct doctrine had never done. My righteousness and holiness were likewise totally inadequate to bring the sense of completeness.
Then, one day a light turned on around me-- giving me an understanding of a scripture I had never understood. Matthew 5:4 Blessed [are] they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
It seemed that the Lord was trying to tell me that my repentance had been the essence of "MOURNING" OVER THE INABILITY OF MY FLESH AND MY WILL TO PRODUCE THE KIND OF RIGHTEOUSNESS AND HOLINESS I HAD THOUGHT I HAD.
THE RIGHTEOUSNESS AND HOLINESS WHICH HE LOOKS FOR IS THAT WHICH ONLY HIS SPIRIT CAN PRODUCE IN OUR LIVES. It is not anything of our own making, which is mostly external in nature.
My repentance, then, was the Lord leading me into a mourning because of my inability to produce the true fruit of righteousness and holiness. Well, if they can not please God, what good are they? They are good to help me avoid evil activity, BUT THEY WILL NEVER COMPLETELY SATISFY GOD-- MAINLY BECAUSE THEY WERE PRODUCED MORE FOR THE EYES OF MEN THAN FOR THE EYES OF GOD.
Now, these scriptures show me that God delights in and has pleasure in those persons who fear (respect) Him and HOPE IN HIS MERCY.
This helps me. It quiets my spirit. It gives me a sense of direction-- a plan of activity.
If my "horse" is inadequate, the only thing left for me to do is to HOPE IN HIS MERCY.
Maybe that is just where the Lord was wanting me to come to-- stripping me of all of my own efforts, and putting my sole hope in Him.
THE NAME OF THE LORD
THE NAME OF THE LORD
What is the Name of the Lord?
Don't be too quick to answer that, for I know what you might be thinking. The name "Jesus" will not be a satisfactory answer, though I will not say you are wrong.
But, the Bible is what I call "self-contained", or speaking its own language. The language of the Bible is not necessarily English, Greek or Hebrew. It is a Spiritual language, and it is necessary for the Spirit to interpret that language. If we try to read it as an earthly language, we will most certainly miss the true meaning. We MUST have access to the Spiritual meaning if we are to have the proper understanding.
Let's go to the book of Exodus, chapter 33. Here is a record of Moses chiding with God-- telling Him that He has not adequately equipped him to lead the people of Israel. He needs to know more about the situation at hand, or he is not sure he wants to continue with the assignment.
Exodus 33:12 And Moses said unto the LORD, See, thou sayest unto me, Bring up this people: and thou hast not let me know whom thou wilt send with me. Yet thou hast said, I know thee by name, and thou hast also found grace in my sight. Now therefore, I pray thee, if I have found grace in thy sight, shew me now thy way, that I may know thee, that I may find grace in thy sight: and consider that this nation [is] thy people. And he said, My presence shall go [with thee], and I will give thee rest. And he said unto him, If thy presence go not [with me], carry us not up hence. For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? [is it] not in that thou goest with us? so shall we be separated, I and thy people, from all the people that [are] upon the face of the earth. And the LORD said unto Moses, I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken: for thou hast found grace in my sight, and I know thee by name. And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory.
Then the Lord JEHOVAH makes some commitments to Moses, one of which is to reveal HIS NAME to him. Moses went a bit further, and asked the Lord to show him HIS GLORY. But that request was a bit too much, though He would show Moses HIS WAY. (I take that to mean He would show Moses the "WHY" of "WHAT" He would be doing in and through Israel.)
Exodus 33:19 And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy. And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live.
The Lord told Moses to come alone to the top of the mountain first thing in the morning, and He would attend to the matter. Moses was to take two more tables of stone for the Lord to write upon, because he had angrily broken the first two. (Moses broke the law, and got by with it.)
But, let's listen to what the NAME OF THE LORD sounded like-- straight from the Lord Himself.
Exodus 34:5 And the LORD descended in the cloud, and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the LORD. And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear [the guilty]; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth [generation].
Needless to say, that got the attention of Moses, and he hastily "came to attention" right then and there. Exodus 34:8 And Moses made haste, and bowed his head toward the earth, and worshipped.
It should also command our attention, for there is much said about that Name throughout the scriptures.
The NAME was a description of the VERY NATURE of the Lord. HIS NATURE IS HIS NAME!
One that comes to my mind right now is found in the Revelation of Jesus Christ, as it was given to John on the Isle of Patmos.
Revelation 14:1 And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty [and] four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads.
When we accept Him, He BEGINS WRITING HIS NATURE upon us (our forehead-- our mind-- the seat of our lives). It is not a "Once-‘n done" deal. Rather it is a progressive process which is accomplished by OUR CONSENT AND CO-OPERATION with His Spirit as He works HIS NATURE into our beings through the vicissitudes of our lives.
At some point, (and I can not say where it is) we can reach a stage of development in God where He looks at us and is satisfied with what He sees.
We will have HIS NAME upon our forehead.
It will be worth every ounce of determination and effort it will have cost us to have attained to that degree of Spiritual refinement and ascendancy.
What is the Name of the Lord?
Don't be too quick to answer that, for I know what you might be thinking. The name "Jesus" will not be a satisfactory answer, though I will not say you are wrong.
But, the Bible is what I call "self-contained", or speaking its own language. The language of the Bible is not necessarily English, Greek or Hebrew. It is a Spiritual language, and it is necessary for the Spirit to interpret that language. If we try to read it as an earthly language, we will most certainly miss the true meaning. We MUST have access to the Spiritual meaning if we are to have the proper understanding.
Let's go to the book of Exodus, chapter 33. Here is a record of Moses chiding with God-- telling Him that He has not adequately equipped him to lead the people of Israel. He needs to know more about the situation at hand, or he is not sure he wants to continue with the assignment.
Exodus 33:12 And Moses said unto the LORD, See, thou sayest unto me, Bring up this people: and thou hast not let me know whom thou wilt send with me. Yet thou hast said, I know thee by name, and thou hast also found grace in my sight. Now therefore, I pray thee, if I have found grace in thy sight, shew me now thy way, that I may know thee, that I may find grace in thy sight: and consider that this nation [is] thy people. And he said, My presence shall go [with thee], and I will give thee rest. And he said unto him, If thy presence go not [with me], carry us not up hence. For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? [is it] not in that thou goest with us? so shall we be separated, I and thy people, from all the people that [are] upon the face of the earth. And the LORD said unto Moses, I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken: for thou hast found grace in my sight, and I know thee by name. And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory.
Then the Lord JEHOVAH makes some commitments to Moses, one of which is to reveal HIS NAME to him. Moses went a bit further, and asked the Lord to show him HIS GLORY. But that request was a bit too much, though He would show Moses HIS WAY. (I take that to mean He would show Moses the "WHY" of "WHAT" He would be doing in and through Israel.)
Exodus 33:19 And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy. And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live.
The Lord told Moses to come alone to the top of the mountain first thing in the morning, and He would attend to the matter. Moses was to take two more tables of stone for the Lord to write upon, because he had angrily broken the first two. (Moses broke the law, and got by with it.)
But, let's listen to what the NAME OF THE LORD sounded like-- straight from the Lord Himself.
Exodus 34:5 And the LORD descended in the cloud, and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the LORD. And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear [the guilty]; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth [generation].
Needless to say, that got the attention of Moses, and he hastily "came to attention" right then and there. Exodus 34:8 And Moses made haste, and bowed his head toward the earth, and worshipped.
It should also command our attention, for there is much said about that Name throughout the scriptures.
The NAME was a description of the VERY NATURE of the Lord. HIS NATURE IS HIS NAME!
One that comes to my mind right now is found in the Revelation of Jesus Christ, as it was given to John on the Isle of Patmos.
Revelation 14:1 And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty [and] four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads.
When we accept Him, He BEGINS WRITING HIS NATURE upon us (our forehead-- our mind-- the seat of our lives). It is not a "Once-‘n done" deal. Rather it is a progressive process which is accomplished by OUR CONSENT AND CO-OPERATION with His Spirit as He works HIS NATURE into our beings through the vicissitudes of our lives.
At some point, (and I can not say where it is) we can reach a stage of development in God where He looks at us and is satisfied with what He sees.
We will have HIS NAME upon our forehead.
It will be worth every ounce of determination and effort it will have cost us to have attained to that degree of Spiritual refinement and ascendancy.
THE NAME APPLIED
THE NAME APPLIED
THE NAME IN THE FOREHEAD
When the Church was very young-- in fact in its first day-- while some were looking for the whiskey jugs-- thinking the first Church members to be drunk, Peter stood up and gave a message from God-- inspired by the Holy Ghost. He told the members of the Jewish nation that they had, with wicked hands, crucified the one who had come as their Messiah, and who had been made both LORD and CHRIST.
The Spiritual Force with which the message was delivered was such that any honest heart could not resist it. It was electrifying, and the results were immediate.
Acts 2:37, 38 Now when they heard [this], they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men [and] brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Why does baptism become a part of the equation? First, because God commanded it-- whether we understand it or not. But there are a few explanations-- some of them good, and some of them not so good. I suspect that the best of the attempted explanations fall far short of doing the matter justice.
But one comes to mind right now, which is about as good as any I have heard. Galatians 3:27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
Notice, Paul specifies that our baptism is into Christ, or Jesus, who is the Christ.
This is accomplished when we are baptized in, or into, the Name of Jesus Christ. That Name, which is above every name, is applied to us when we are baptized into it.
Have you ever wondered why Jesus was quoted, (Mat 28:19) as commanding to baptize in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost? Have you ever wondered why the early Church leaders did not do it-- even one time? Every recorded baptism in the book of Acts was administered in the Name of Jesus, or the Name of the Lord.
Fact is-- there is almost conclusive proof that the original manuscript contained the phrase "in My Name" instead of the modern rendering. The "proof" that we have is to be found in the writings some of the earliest Church leaders (Eusebius, for one example). In every instance of quoting Mat 28:19, they quoted "In My Name."
Those first manuscripts were destroyed, and replaced by altered versions after the Council of Nicea, according to the late A.H. Broughton.
But, that is not the real subject I want to deal with today.
What I really want to deal with is the different ways in which the Name of Jesus can be applied to our lives.
One method is, obviously, by immersion in or into the Name of Jesus.
I cannot serve as judge over anyone who is immersed, sprinkled, dunked or whatever else, in any other fashion. God alone knows the hearts of all people, and He alone is qualified to be the judge. But, knowing what I know, I can be satisfied with nothing short of immersion in, or into the Name of Jesus.
But I see another way in which the Name will or will not be applied to each one of us as an individual. Listen while I quote you some scripture--
Revelation 14:1 And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty [and] four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads.
Revelation 22:4 And they shall see his face; and his name [shall be] in their foreheads.
If I have understood the Word correctly, these are Christians who stand out in the midst of other Christians-- "head and shoulders above the rest."
The term "forehead" is understood to be referring to the source of all activity of the person. The seat of all emotions and actions. So, what does this mean? There is a reward for those who meet the requirements
Is it possible to have the Name of Jesus applied to our lives in baptism, and still not have it imprinted into our foreheads? Without doubt this is true.
Jesus will, if we let Him, refine our natures to be more conformable to His Spirit. But not all of us are willing to submit to the process of refinement. Heat and acids are tools of refinement. We shrink back from both of them, if we obey the impulses of our flesh.
And this can be going on while we are still safe and secure in the Name of Jesus (by baptism into His Name).
But the JEWELS OF THE LORD will be those who have permitted the "hot and hurtful" process of character refinement to be accomplished in us.
Why should we allow the refinement of character to take place? Aren't we assured a place in Heaven without it? Probably so. But there is something BETTER THAN HEAVEN. It is Heaven AND His Name in the forehead.
THE NAME IN THE FOREHEAD
When the Church was very young-- in fact in its first day-- while some were looking for the whiskey jugs-- thinking the first Church members to be drunk, Peter stood up and gave a message from God-- inspired by the Holy Ghost. He told the members of the Jewish nation that they had, with wicked hands, crucified the one who had come as their Messiah, and who had been made both LORD and CHRIST.
The Spiritual Force with which the message was delivered was such that any honest heart could not resist it. It was electrifying, and the results were immediate.
Acts 2:37, 38 Now when they heard [this], they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men [and] brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Why does baptism become a part of the equation? First, because God commanded it-- whether we understand it or not. But there are a few explanations-- some of them good, and some of them not so good. I suspect that the best of the attempted explanations fall far short of doing the matter justice.
But one comes to mind right now, which is about as good as any I have heard. Galatians 3:27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
Notice, Paul specifies that our baptism is into Christ, or Jesus, who is the Christ.
This is accomplished when we are baptized in, or into, the Name of Jesus Christ. That Name, which is above every name, is applied to us when we are baptized into it.
Have you ever wondered why Jesus was quoted, (Mat 28:19) as commanding to baptize in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost? Have you ever wondered why the early Church leaders did not do it-- even one time? Every recorded baptism in the book of Acts was administered in the Name of Jesus, or the Name of the Lord.
Fact is-- there is almost conclusive proof that the original manuscript contained the phrase "in My Name" instead of the modern rendering. The "proof" that we have is to be found in the writings some of the earliest Church leaders (Eusebius, for one example). In every instance of quoting Mat 28:19, they quoted "In My Name."
Those first manuscripts were destroyed, and replaced by altered versions after the Council of Nicea, according to the late A.H. Broughton.
But, that is not the real subject I want to deal with today.
What I really want to deal with is the different ways in which the Name of Jesus can be applied to our lives.
One method is, obviously, by immersion in or into the Name of Jesus.
I cannot serve as judge over anyone who is immersed, sprinkled, dunked or whatever else, in any other fashion. God alone knows the hearts of all people, and He alone is qualified to be the judge. But, knowing what I know, I can be satisfied with nothing short of immersion in, or into the Name of Jesus.
But I see another way in which the Name will or will not be applied to each one of us as an individual. Listen while I quote you some scripture--
Revelation 14:1 And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty [and] four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads.
Revelation 22:4 And they shall see his face; and his name [shall be] in their foreheads.
If I have understood the Word correctly, these are Christians who stand out in the midst of other Christians-- "head and shoulders above the rest."
The term "forehead" is understood to be referring to the source of all activity of the person. The seat of all emotions and actions. So, what does this mean? There is a reward for those who meet the requirements
Is it possible to have the Name of Jesus applied to our lives in baptism, and still not have it imprinted into our foreheads? Without doubt this is true.
Jesus will, if we let Him, refine our natures to be more conformable to His Spirit. But not all of us are willing to submit to the process of refinement. Heat and acids are tools of refinement. We shrink back from both of them, if we obey the impulses of our flesh.
And this can be going on while we are still safe and secure in the Name of Jesus (by baptism into His Name).
But the JEWELS OF THE LORD will be those who have permitted the "hot and hurtful" process of character refinement to be accomplished in us.
Why should we allow the refinement of character to take place? Aren't we assured a place in Heaven without it? Probably so. But there is something BETTER THAN HEAVEN. It is Heaven AND His Name in the forehead.
THOSE FLOGGINGS
THOSE FLOGGINGS
A strange inspiration came to me last night, and I have learned (I hope) to allow them to develop, even if I don't know why.
Perhaps not many of you are aware of the fact that God makes a difference, in His Word, between those who are "born into the family of God" (Christian believers), and those who attain to the status of "Sons". But, that fact is borne out throughout the Bible-- both the Old Testament and the New. We won't labor the proof this morning, but get right to the point impressed upon me last night.
God deals with "children" differently than with those who are "striving for the masteries"-- who are "overcomers" in the making, or "sons" in the making. Case in point: According to the parable of the ninety and nine-- the shepherd seeks for a “Christian” who wanders away. Conversely, according to the parable of the prodigal son-- a "son-in-the-making" is left to his own devices (plans and purposes) until he, through the process of sowing and reaping, "comes to himself".
Let's look at some scripture. Hebrews 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, (child-training) and scourgeth (flogging) every son whom he receiveth (into Sonship). Find the word "scourging" in Hebrews 11:36 And others had trial of [cruel] mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:. It comes from the word used to describe the Roman beatings of a criminal. It is a far cry from a "walk in the park" or a game of "tiddly winks". Jesus was "scourged" (flogged) in the judgment hall of Pilate. John 19:1 Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged [him].
This is the SERIOUS BUSINESS of producing a "Son" via the process of SPIRITUAL REFINEMENT AND PERSONAL PURIFICATION. It can become a very painful, bruising process before the Lord is satisfied. And, WE CAN ESCAPE IT IF WE WISH. We do not have to accept such treatment from the Lord. HE WILL NOT FORCE IT UPON ANYONE. But, Listen to scripture:
Hebrews 12:7 IF YE ENDURE CHASTENING, GOD DEALETH WITH YOU AS WITH SONS"; for what SON is he whom the father chasteneth not?
Hebrews 12:8 BUT IF YE BE WITHOUT (refuse) CHASTISEMENT, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
Hebrews 12:5 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise (refuse) not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint ("think it not strange") when thou art rebuked of him: Hebrews 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
All "Sons-in-the-making" are Christians (blood-bought), but not all blood-bought Christians are "Sons-in-the-making".
Let's "strive for the masteries". II Timothy 2:5 And if a man also strive for masteries, [yet] is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.
I Corinthians 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is TEMPERATE IN ALL THINGS. Now they [do it] to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
A strange inspiration came to me last night, and I have learned (I hope) to allow them to develop, even if I don't know why.
Perhaps not many of you are aware of the fact that God makes a difference, in His Word, between those who are "born into the family of God" (Christian believers), and those who attain to the status of "Sons". But, that fact is borne out throughout the Bible-- both the Old Testament and the New. We won't labor the proof this morning, but get right to the point impressed upon me last night.
God deals with "children" differently than with those who are "striving for the masteries"-- who are "overcomers" in the making, or "sons" in the making. Case in point: According to the parable of the ninety and nine-- the shepherd seeks for a “Christian” who wanders away. Conversely, according to the parable of the prodigal son-- a "son-in-the-making" is left to his own devices (plans and purposes) until he, through the process of sowing and reaping, "comes to himself".
Let's look at some scripture. Hebrews 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, (child-training) and scourgeth (flogging) every son whom he receiveth (into Sonship). Find the word "scourging" in Hebrews 11:36 And others had trial of [cruel] mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:. It comes from the word used to describe the Roman beatings of a criminal. It is a far cry from a "walk in the park" or a game of "tiddly winks". Jesus was "scourged" (flogged) in the judgment hall of Pilate. John 19:1 Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged [him].
This is the SERIOUS BUSINESS of producing a "Son" via the process of SPIRITUAL REFINEMENT AND PERSONAL PURIFICATION. It can become a very painful, bruising process before the Lord is satisfied. And, WE CAN ESCAPE IT IF WE WISH. We do not have to accept such treatment from the Lord. HE WILL NOT FORCE IT UPON ANYONE. But, Listen to scripture:
Hebrews 12:7 IF YE ENDURE CHASTENING, GOD DEALETH WITH YOU AS WITH SONS"; for what SON is he whom the father chasteneth not?
Hebrews 12:8 BUT IF YE BE WITHOUT (refuse) CHASTISEMENT, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
Hebrews 12:5 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise (refuse) not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint ("think it not strange") when thou art rebuked of him: Hebrews 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
All "Sons-in-the-making" are Christians (blood-bought), but not all blood-bought Christians are "Sons-in-the-making".
Let's "strive for the masteries". II Timothy 2:5 And if a man also strive for masteries, [yet] is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.
I Corinthians 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is TEMPERATE IN ALL THINGS. Now they [do it] to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
THE HIGH CALLING
THE HIGH CALLING OF GOD
Philippians 3:13,14 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but [this] ONE THING [I do], FORGETTING those things which are behind, and REACHING FORTH unto those things which are before, I PRESS TOWARD THE MARK FOR THE PRIZE OF THE HIGH CALLING OF GOD in Christ Jesus.
We MUST IMPRESS upon you at this point that the Lord DID NOT have SALVATION in mind when He caused these words to be penned by the Apostle Paul. The HIGH CALLING OF GOD is not bestowed upon us at the time we accept Jesus into our lives. Nor is it given when we receive the Holy Ghost Baptism. Those are GIVEN FREELY TO US AS WE COME TO JESUS.
To attain to the PRIZE of the HIGH CALLING requires MUCH EFFORT on our part. Yet, none of us can attain to it entirely by our own efforts. The best we can do is to MAKE OURSELVES A CANDIDATE for it. The Lord, WHO KNOWS THE HEART COMPLETELY, does the CHOOSING.
Malachi 3:16,17 Then they that FEARED the LORD spake (lit. consulted) often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard [it], and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought (lit. reckoned) upon his name. And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day WHEN I MAKE UP MY JEWELS; -- (mg. special treasure)
God has a pre-determined reward reserved for those whom He chooses for this honor.
Romans 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate [TO BE] CONFORMED TO THE IMAGE OF HIS SON, THAT HE MIGHT BE THE FIRSTBORN AMONG MANY BRETHREN.
ICorinthians 9:24 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain
Philippians 3:12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I FOLLOW AFTER (Dioko), if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.
ICorinthians 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they [do it] to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
In a natural race or competitive event, there can only be ONE winner. But, with God, EVERYBODY has the opportunity to win. Do not give up in this race just because you don't show as well as another one does. God is dealing in heart condition rather than surface appearance. You CAN be a WINNER.
ICorinthians 9:27 But I keep under my body, and bring [it] into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. (fail to be an overcomer)
IITimothy 2:4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of [this] life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.
IITimothy 2:5 And if a man also strive for masteries, [yet] is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully. (The SPIRIT OF GOD MUST BE OUR TRAINER AND COACH.)
I BELIEVE that the criterion will be the degree to which we have overcome the spirit of Man in our lives, and how much we have cultivated the SPIRIT OF GOD (the NATURE OF GOD) INTO OUR LIVES.
Apparently, Paul achieved success in his struggle, for his last testimony was:
IITimothy 4:7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished [my] course, I have kept the faith:
THE HIGH CALLING OF GOD IN CHRIST JESUS.
Philippians 3:13,14 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but [this] ONE THING [I do], FORGETTING those things which are behind, and REACHING FORTH unto those things which are before, I PRESS TOWARD THE MARK FOR THE PRIZE OF THE HIGH CALLING OF GOD in Christ Jesus.
We MUST IMPRESS upon you at this point that the Lord DID NOT have SALVATION in mind when He caused these words to be penned by the Apostle Paul. The HIGH CALLING OF GOD is not bestowed upon us at the time we accept Jesus into our lives. Nor is it given when we receive the Holy Ghost Baptism. Those are GIVEN FREELY TO US AS WE COME TO JESUS.
To attain to the PRIZE of the HIGH CALLING requires MUCH EFFORT on our part. Yet, none of us can attain to it entirely by our own efforts. The best we can do is to MAKE OURSELVES A CANDIDATE for it. The Lord, WHO KNOWS THE HEART COMPLETELY, does the CHOOSING.
Malachi 3:16,17 Then they that FEARED the LORD spake (lit. consulted) often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard [it], and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought (lit. reckoned) upon his name. And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day WHEN I MAKE UP MY JEWELS; -- (mg. special treasure)
God has a pre-determined reward reserved for those whom He chooses for this honor.
Romans 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate [TO BE] CONFORMED TO THE IMAGE OF HIS SON, THAT HE MIGHT BE THE FIRSTBORN AMONG MANY BRETHREN.
ICorinthians 9:24 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain
Philippians 3:12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I FOLLOW AFTER (Dioko), if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.
ICorinthians 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they [do it] to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
In a natural race or competitive event, there can only be ONE winner. But, with God, EVERYBODY has the opportunity to win. Do not give up in this race just because you don't show as well as another one does. God is dealing in heart condition rather than surface appearance. You CAN be a WINNER.
ICorinthians 9:27 But I keep under my body, and bring [it] into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. (fail to be an overcomer)
IITimothy 2:4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of [this] life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.
IITimothy 2:5 And if a man also strive for masteries, [yet] is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully. (The SPIRIT OF GOD MUST BE OUR TRAINER AND COACH.)
I BELIEVE that the criterion will be the degree to which we have overcome the spirit of Man in our lives, and how much we have cultivated the SPIRIT OF GOD (the NATURE OF GOD) INTO OUR LIVES.
Apparently, Paul achieved success in his struggle, for his last testimony was:
IITimothy 4:7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished [my] course, I have kept the faith:
THE HIGH CALLING OF GOD IN CHRIST JESUS.
WHO SHALL ASCEND
WHO SHALL ASCEND?
Psalms24:3-5 Who shall ASCEND into the HILL OF THE LORD? or who shall STAND in HIS HOLY PLACE? He that hath clean hands,and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the LORD—
Psalms15:1-5 LORD, who shall ABIDE in thy TABERNACLE? who shall DWELL in thy HOLY HILL? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. [He that] backbiteth not with his tongue,nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. In whose eyes a vile personis contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. [He that] sweareth to [his own] hurt, and changeth not. [He that] putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these [things] shall never be moved.
Notice, please, that the Psalmist DID NOT ASK WHO COULD BE SAVED FROM SIN AND MAKE HEAVEN THEIR HOME. Those are FREE for the asking, with no effort on our part except to ask for, and receive, God's provision for the welfare of our soul.
But, to ascend to the HILL OF THE LORD is quite another subject entirely, and seems to be very much dependent upon what we allow or disallow in our personal character and conduct.
The HILL OF THE LORD is identified in other places as being the MOUNTAIN OF HIS HOLINESS.
Psalms 48:1 Great [is] the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God,[in] the MOUNTAIN OF HIS HOLINESS.
Also, the HILL OF THE LORD is NOT A GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION. Rather-- it is A SPIRITUAL CONDITION WHICH WE ACHIEVE BY OBEDIENCE TO THE WORD OF GOD-- COUPLED WITH HIS SPIRIT.
Isaiah 2:3 And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the MOUNTAIN OF THE LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will TEACH US OF HIS WAYS, AND WE WILL WALK IN HIS PATHS: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.
How many times? How easy it is for us to ignore the known Word of God, and do what our own desires dictate in any given situation. Too often for comfort, when faced with the reality of our choices. There is no one to FORCE us to act according to the Word and Spirit of God. Judging from God's apparent disregard for our actions, we seem to think that He doesn't care, or is taking no account of our disregard of His Word.
But, such is not the case, for it is all recorded, and will tip the balance one way or the other-- usually in a negative way.
And, please note, we can continue for an indefinite period of time in our own actions and reactions, and still be among those who will make Heaven our home in the next life.
But that is NOT WHAT SONSHIP IS ALL ABOUT. SONSHIP is about God MUSTERING AND TRAINING an ARMY through which He can tear down the Kingdoms of this world, and replace them with HIS KINGDOM ON EARTH.
Do we want to be in that Army?
YES! YES! YES!
SONSHIP is about SENDING REAPERS INTO THE WORLD TO REAP A HARVEST FOR THE LORD
THE REAPERS MUST HAVE A SPECIAL ANOINTING FOR THE JOB. It CANNOT be done by just anyone who decides they want to work. We have enough of that being done now-- with pitifully small results. BUT, THE REAPERS WILL REAP!
Matthew 13:30 Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the TIME OF THE HARVEST I will say TO THE REAPERS, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn.
THE ENTIRE WORLD WILL BE CONFRONTED WITH THE REALITY OF JESUS CHRIST AS A RESULT OFTHE ARMY OF THE LORD (OVERCOMERS) BEING SENT INTO THE HARVEST FIELD (WORLD)
Can we qualify for membership in this ARMY OF GOD?
YES, WE CAN, BUT IT WON'T BE EASY.
Psalms24:3-5 Who shall ASCEND into the HILL OF THE LORD? or who shall STAND in HIS HOLY PLACE? He that hath clean hands,and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the LORD—
Psalms15:1-5 LORD, who shall ABIDE in thy TABERNACLE? who shall DWELL in thy HOLY HILL? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. [He that] backbiteth not with his tongue,nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. In whose eyes a vile personis contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. [He that] sweareth to [his own] hurt, and changeth not. [He that] putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these [things] shall never be moved.
Notice, please, that the Psalmist DID NOT ASK WHO COULD BE SAVED FROM SIN AND MAKE HEAVEN THEIR HOME. Those are FREE for the asking, with no effort on our part except to ask for, and receive, God's provision for the welfare of our soul.
But, to ascend to the HILL OF THE LORD is quite another subject entirely, and seems to be very much dependent upon what we allow or disallow in our personal character and conduct.
The HILL OF THE LORD is identified in other places as being the MOUNTAIN OF HIS HOLINESS.
Psalms 48:1 Great [is] the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God,[in] the MOUNTAIN OF HIS HOLINESS.
Also, the HILL OF THE LORD is NOT A GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION. Rather-- it is A SPIRITUAL CONDITION WHICH WE ACHIEVE BY OBEDIENCE TO THE WORD OF GOD-- COUPLED WITH HIS SPIRIT.
Isaiah 2:3 And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the MOUNTAIN OF THE LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will TEACH US OF HIS WAYS, AND WE WILL WALK IN HIS PATHS: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.
How many times? How easy it is for us to ignore the known Word of God, and do what our own desires dictate in any given situation. Too often for comfort, when faced with the reality of our choices. There is no one to FORCE us to act according to the Word and Spirit of God. Judging from God's apparent disregard for our actions, we seem to think that He doesn't care, or is taking no account of our disregard of His Word.
But, such is not the case, for it is all recorded, and will tip the balance one way or the other-- usually in a negative way.
And, please note, we can continue for an indefinite period of time in our own actions and reactions, and still be among those who will make Heaven our home in the next life.
But that is NOT WHAT SONSHIP IS ALL ABOUT. SONSHIP is about God MUSTERING AND TRAINING an ARMY through which He can tear down the Kingdoms of this world, and replace them with HIS KINGDOM ON EARTH.
Do we want to be in that Army?
YES! YES! YES!
SONSHIP is about SENDING REAPERS INTO THE WORLD TO REAP A HARVEST FOR THE LORD
THE REAPERS MUST HAVE A SPECIAL ANOINTING FOR THE JOB. It CANNOT be done by just anyone who decides they want to work. We have enough of that being done now-- with pitifully small results. BUT, THE REAPERS WILL REAP!
Matthew 13:30 Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the TIME OF THE HARVEST I will say TO THE REAPERS, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn.
THE ENTIRE WORLD WILL BE CONFRONTED WITH THE REALITY OF JESUS CHRIST AS A RESULT OFTHE ARMY OF THE LORD (OVERCOMERS) BEING SENT INTO THE HARVEST FIELD (WORLD)
Can we qualify for membership in this ARMY OF GOD?
YES, WE CAN, BUT IT WON'T BE EASY.
Saturday, August 19, 2006
A BETTER COUNTRY
A BETTER COUNTRY
Whoever wrote the book of Hebrews certainly had a good understanding of God's plan for His followers. The writer used a few terms to explain God's intent in a way that we can readily grasp with clarity.
In recalling the Heroes of Faith, (chapter 11) Abraham is used to demonstrate a blind obedience to the command of God.
We also see the results of God revealing Himself to a man. A REVELATION of the SPIRIT imparts a knowledge to the soul and mind of a person.
Hebrews 11:8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as [in] a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which HATH FOUNDATIONS, whose builder and maker [is] God.
Abraham had, by the Spirit, caught a vision of an Eternal City (one that had FOUNDATIONS). There are no cities of this world which will make the transition into the Eternal World, because they are all builded by man. They (everything we can see) all are to perish with the world. We can not trust in any government (city), nor in anything that pertains to them. All that we see and handle is temporal.
Hebrews 13:14 For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come.
Each of us needs to ask ourselves, "Where have I put my confidence, what am I putting my trust in?" If it is fastened on anything which this world has or can produce, we are in deep trouble.
It is only natural for us to want to be located in a good neighborhood, near good schools and shopping centers, above the hundred-year flood plane, etc. etc. This is NOT WRONG, for God expects us to be concerned about such things. Prudence dictates that we take note of such things.
Prudence (WISDOM) also dictates that we be concerned about what awaits us beyond the dividing of this life from that which is to come. That is far more important than the natural things.
We are only on earth for a short span of time, but Eternity is in another realm altogether. I can not explain it to you, but I am convinced that it is even more real than what we are seeing in the here and now.
Hebrews 11:13 These all died in faith, NOT HAVING RECEIVED THE PROMISES, BUT HAVING SEEN THEM AFAR OFF, and were persuaded of [them], and embraced [them], and CONFESSED THAT THEY WERE STRANGERS AND PILGRIMS ON THE EARTH. For they that say such things declare plainly that THEY SEEK A COUNTRY.
Hebrews 11:16 But now they DESIRE A BETTER [COUNTRY], THAT IS, AN HEAVENLY: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: FOR HE HATH PREPARED FOR THEM A CITY.
When God reveals Himself to us, we, like the patriarchs of old, catch a vision of an ETERNAL CITY, A STEADFAST CITY IN A BETTER COUNTRY. It is part of the package.
Whoever wrote the book of Hebrews certainly had a good understanding of God's plan for His followers. The writer used a few terms to explain God's intent in a way that we can readily grasp with clarity.
In recalling the Heroes of Faith, (chapter 11) Abraham is used to demonstrate a blind obedience to the command of God.
We also see the results of God revealing Himself to a man. A REVELATION of the SPIRIT imparts a knowledge to the soul and mind of a person.
Hebrews 11:8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as [in] a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which HATH FOUNDATIONS, whose builder and maker [is] God.
Abraham had, by the Spirit, caught a vision of an Eternal City (one that had FOUNDATIONS). There are no cities of this world which will make the transition into the Eternal World, because they are all builded by man. They (everything we can see) all are to perish with the world. We can not trust in any government (city), nor in anything that pertains to them. All that we see and handle is temporal.
Hebrews 13:14 For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come.
Each of us needs to ask ourselves, "Where have I put my confidence, what am I putting my trust in?" If it is fastened on anything which this world has or can produce, we are in deep trouble.
It is only natural for us to want to be located in a good neighborhood, near good schools and shopping centers, above the hundred-year flood plane, etc. etc. This is NOT WRONG, for God expects us to be concerned about such things. Prudence dictates that we take note of such things.
Prudence (WISDOM) also dictates that we be concerned about what awaits us beyond the dividing of this life from that which is to come. That is far more important than the natural things.
We are only on earth for a short span of time, but Eternity is in another realm altogether. I can not explain it to you, but I am convinced that it is even more real than what we are seeing in the here and now.
Hebrews 11:13 These all died in faith, NOT HAVING RECEIVED THE PROMISES, BUT HAVING SEEN THEM AFAR OFF, and were persuaded of [them], and embraced [them], and CONFESSED THAT THEY WERE STRANGERS AND PILGRIMS ON THE EARTH. For they that say such things declare plainly that THEY SEEK A COUNTRY.
Hebrews 11:16 But now they DESIRE A BETTER [COUNTRY], THAT IS, AN HEAVENLY: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: FOR HE HATH PREPARED FOR THEM A CITY.
When God reveals Himself to us, we, like the patriarchs of old, catch a vision of an ETERNAL CITY, A STEADFAST CITY IN A BETTER COUNTRY. It is part of the package.
WORSHIP
WORSHIP
Did you know that WORSHIP is different than PRAISE? And it is a BIG difference, at that.
Often, in our services, both Praise and Worship are present, but Praise is usually the predominant part.
The Lord probably accepts Praise from any and all of us who know Him. We should continually be in an attitude of Praise and thankfulness for His goodness to us, unworthy as we are.
Worship, however, requires somewhat more a LIFESTYLE that is in line with the princliples of the Bible. The root word means to "kiss the hand toward". It involves a much closer RELATIONSHIP to Jesus. It involves a DEDICATION to God.
A friend of mine told me that the Lord had made him to know that a certain element of his lifestyle was offensive to Him, and as long as my friend allowed it to exist, there could be no close relationship between them. Needless to say, my friend CHANGED his LIFESTYLE, and now has a closer walk with the Lord.
Should we, periodically, examine our activities in the light of the Word of God, to assure that we are not OFFENDING God by our LIFESTYLE? If we are, we need to change to a life that is consistent with the Word of God.
Luke 16:15 -- Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.
Did you know that WORSHIP is different than PRAISE? And it is a BIG difference, at that.
Often, in our services, both Praise and Worship are present, but Praise is usually the predominant part.
The Lord probably accepts Praise from any and all of us who know Him. We should continually be in an attitude of Praise and thankfulness for His goodness to us, unworthy as we are.
Worship, however, requires somewhat more a LIFESTYLE that is in line with the princliples of the Bible. The root word means to "kiss the hand toward". It involves a much closer RELATIONSHIP to Jesus. It involves a DEDICATION to God.
A friend of mine told me that the Lord had made him to know that a certain element of his lifestyle was offensive to Him, and as long as my friend allowed it to exist, there could be no close relationship between them. Needless to say, my friend CHANGED his LIFESTYLE, and now has a closer walk with the Lord.
Should we, periodically, examine our activities in the light of the Word of God, to assure that we are not OFFENDING God by our LIFESTYLE? If we are, we need to change to a life that is consistent with the Word of God.
Luke 16:15 -- Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.
WITNESSES OF THE RESURRECTION
WITNESSES OF THE RESURRECTION
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the pillar of the Christian Faith. We are the ONLY worshippers who have an EMPTY TOMB to look back to.
After Judas had hanged himself, and there were only eleven of the original twelve Apostles left, Peter addressed the group of believers and said:
Acts 1:21 Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ORDAINED to be a witness with us of his RESURRECTION.
Have you ever wondered why it must be TWELVE witnesses? Why not ELEVEN or THIRTEEN?
Following are a few more scriptures concerning the Apostles being witnesses of His resurrection.
Acts 2:32 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. WITNESSES OF THE RESURRECTION
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the pillar of the Christian Faith. We are the ONLY worshippers who have an EMPTY TOMB to look back to.
After Judas had hanged himself, and there were only eleven of the original twelve Apostles left, Peter addressed the group of believers and said:
Acts 1:21 Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ORDAINED to be a witness with us of his RESURRECTION.
Have you ever wondered why it must be TWELVE witnesses? Why not ELEVEN or THIRTEEN?
Following are a few more scriptures concerning the Apostles being witnesses of His resurrection.
Acts 2:32 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.
Acts 3:15 And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.
Acts 4:20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
Acts 4:33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.
Acts 10:39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree:
Acts 10:40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;
Acts 10:41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, [even] to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead.
Acts 13:31 And he was seen many days of them which came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are his witnesses unto the people.
Acts 22:15 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.
Acts 1:3 To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:
Matthew 28:9 And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.
Mark 16:12 After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they walked, and went into the country.
Mark 16:14 Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen.
Luke 24:6 He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee,
Luke 24:30 And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed [it], and brake, and gave to them. And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight.
John 20:26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: [then] came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace [be] unto you. Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust [it] into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.
Acts 3:15 And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.
Acts 4:20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
Acts 4:33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.
Acts 10:39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree:
Acts 10:40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;
Acts 10:41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, [even] to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead.
Acts 13:31 And he was seen many days of them which came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are his witnesses unto the people.
Acts 22:15 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.
Acts 1:3 To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:
Matthew 28:9 And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.
Mark 16:12 After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they walked, and went into the country.
Mark 16:14 Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen.
Luke 24:6 He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee,
Luke 24:30 And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed [it], and brake, and gave to them. And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight.
John 20:26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: [then] came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace [be] unto you. Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust [it] into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the pillar of the Christian Faith. We are the ONLY worshippers who have an EMPTY TOMB to look back to.
After Judas had hanged himself, and there were only eleven of the original twelve Apostles left, Peter addressed the group of believers and said:
Acts 1:21 Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ORDAINED to be a witness with us of his RESURRECTION.
Have you ever wondered why it must be TWELVE witnesses? Why not ELEVEN or THIRTEEN?
Following are a few more scriptures concerning the Apostles being witnesses of His resurrection.
Acts 2:32 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. WITNESSES OF THE RESURRECTION
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the pillar of the Christian Faith. We are the ONLY worshippers who have an EMPTY TOMB to look back to.
After Judas had hanged himself, and there were only eleven of the original twelve Apostles left, Peter addressed the group of believers and said:
Acts 1:21 Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ORDAINED to be a witness with us of his RESURRECTION.
Have you ever wondered why it must be TWELVE witnesses? Why not ELEVEN or THIRTEEN?
Following are a few more scriptures concerning the Apostles being witnesses of His resurrection.
Acts 2:32 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.
Acts 3:15 And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.
Acts 4:20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
Acts 4:33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.
Acts 10:39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree:
Acts 10:40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;
Acts 10:41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, [even] to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead.
Acts 13:31 And he was seen many days of them which came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are his witnesses unto the people.
Acts 22:15 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.
Acts 1:3 To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:
Matthew 28:9 And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.
Mark 16:12 After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they walked, and went into the country.
Mark 16:14 Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen.
Luke 24:6 He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee,
Luke 24:30 And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed [it], and brake, and gave to them. And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight.
John 20:26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: [then] came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace [be] unto you. Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust [it] into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.
Acts 3:15 And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.
Acts 4:20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
Acts 4:33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.
Acts 10:39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree:
Acts 10:40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;
Acts 10:41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, [even] to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead.
Acts 13:31 And he was seen many days of them which came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are his witnesses unto the people.
Acts 22:15 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.
Acts 1:3 To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:
Matthew 28:9 And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.
Mark 16:12 After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they walked, and went into the country.
Mark 16:14 Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen.
Luke 24:6 He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee,
Luke 24:30 And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed [it], and brake, and gave to them. And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight.
John 20:26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: [then] came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace [be] unto you. Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust [it] into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.
BETTER-- FIRST
BETTER-FIRST
The word "better" occurs 117 times in the New Testament. Perhaps the book of Hebrews uses it to be best advantage-- such as Jesus being made so much better than the angels. (1:4) 7:19-- Better hope. 7:22-- better testament. 8:6-- better covenant, better promises. 9:23-- better sacrifices. 10:34-- better substance. 11:16-- better country. 11:35-- better resurrection. 11:40-- better thing. 12:24-- better speaking.
All of these but one, the better resurrection, are comparing the Old Covenant with the New Covenant.
The better resurrection is defined as the reward given to individuals who meet the requirements to be eligible for it.
We have certainly been taught error when we were taught that ALL Christians would take part in the First Resurrection.
Likewise, it has been error for us to have been taught that ALL Christians would be "caught up" at the Last Trumpet.
Those teachings have served more as an opiate to Christians than anything else. It has fostered an attitude, "So what? I won't be here for the trouble. I can "just trust in Jesus" and everything will be all right. I'll fly away, Oh, Glory."
Look at Revelation 20:5 But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This [is] the first resurrection. Blessed and holy [is] he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.
Compared with Hebrews 11:35 Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:
Also, we should look at a scripture very rarely explained. Philippians 3:11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. The word translated resurrection here is used only once in the Bible-- right here. It is speaking of a special resurrection (the first), a "standing out from among the dead."
Not all Christians will be raised at the Trumpet sounding. They do not all qualify.
The "Better", "First", "Standing out" resurrection will be God's response to a life lived in very close harmony with the Principles of Jesus Christ.
If we hope to have a part in the event, we should earnestly strive to incorporate Godly Principles into everything we do. Then, we should walk in an attitude of constant repentance toward God for the things we are not able to do because we are hindered by our flesh.
None of us are able to walk completely free of the frailties of our flesh, but most of us are falling far short of what we are capable of doing to overcome those frailties.
Only God knows what our individual capability is. BUT HE DOES KNOW. If I am slacking my ability, He knows it. I can not fool Him. Lame excuses will get me nowhere.
It is the height of foolishness for me to compare myself with someone else. I can not know the extent of his ability. His accomplishments may be for him what the widow's two mites were to her-- the best he can do.
If he does his best, and I do more than he does, even if I don't do my best-- hey, I'm in deep trouble. He is more of a candidate for the "better", "first", "standing out" resurrection than I am.
The word "better" occurs 117 times in the New Testament. Perhaps the book of Hebrews uses it to be best advantage-- such as Jesus being made so much better than the angels. (1:4) 7:19-- Better hope. 7:22-- better testament. 8:6-- better covenant, better promises. 9:23-- better sacrifices. 10:34-- better substance. 11:16-- better country. 11:35-- better resurrection. 11:40-- better thing. 12:24-- better speaking.
All of these but one, the better resurrection, are comparing the Old Covenant with the New Covenant.
The better resurrection is defined as the reward given to individuals who meet the requirements to be eligible for it.
We have certainly been taught error when we were taught that ALL Christians would take part in the First Resurrection.
Likewise, it has been error for us to have been taught that ALL Christians would be "caught up" at the Last Trumpet.
Those teachings have served more as an opiate to Christians than anything else. It has fostered an attitude, "So what? I won't be here for the trouble. I can "just trust in Jesus" and everything will be all right. I'll fly away, Oh, Glory."
Look at Revelation 20:5 But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This [is] the first resurrection. Blessed and holy [is] he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.
Compared with Hebrews 11:35 Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:
Also, we should look at a scripture very rarely explained. Philippians 3:11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. The word translated resurrection here is used only once in the Bible-- right here. It is speaking of a special resurrection (the first), a "standing out from among the dead."
Not all Christians will be raised at the Trumpet sounding. They do not all qualify.
The "Better", "First", "Standing out" resurrection will be God's response to a life lived in very close harmony with the Principles of Jesus Christ.
If we hope to have a part in the event, we should earnestly strive to incorporate Godly Principles into everything we do. Then, we should walk in an attitude of constant repentance toward God for the things we are not able to do because we are hindered by our flesh.
None of us are able to walk completely free of the frailties of our flesh, but most of us are falling far short of what we are capable of doing to overcome those frailties.
Only God knows what our individual capability is. BUT HE DOES KNOW. If I am slacking my ability, He knows it. I can not fool Him. Lame excuses will get me nowhere.
It is the height of foolishness for me to compare myself with someone else. I can not know the extent of his ability. His accomplishments may be for him what the widow's two mites were to her-- the best he can do.
If he does his best, and I do more than he does, even if I don't do my best-- hey, I'm in deep trouble. He is more of a candidate for the "better", "first", "standing out" resurrection than I am.
Friday, August 18, 2006
AFRAID TO PRAY
AFRAID TO PRAY
In our years of ministry we have contacted many people who wanted God's Will for their life. But they also had some definite desires and plans of their own.
I've been down that road myself, and can testify that it does, indeed, lead to a "swamp" of frustration.
A few times, until I got tired of the emotional upheaval, I would find myself "afraid to pray", for fear of what the answer might be. I still wanted things "my way."
Slowly, oh so slowly, the Lord in His Patience and Forbearance, got "through to me" the reality of my condition.
When I wanted to do things my own way, I was actually in a state of REBELLION to Him and His Way. That was something I DID NOT WANT.
Submission doesn't come easily-- especially to leaders, but its dividends are definitely higher than the dividends of Rebellion.
An old saint once said to me, "God always gives the BEST to those who leave the CHOICE to Him." I believe it is true.
In our years of ministry we have contacted many people who wanted God's Will for their life. But they also had some definite desires and plans of their own.
I've been down that road myself, and can testify that it does, indeed, lead to a "swamp" of frustration.
A few times, until I got tired of the emotional upheaval, I would find myself "afraid to pray", for fear of what the answer might be. I still wanted things "my way."
Slowly, oh so slowly, the Lord in His Patience and Forbearance, got "through to me" the reality of my condition.
When I wanted to do things my own way, I was actually in a state of REBELLION to Him and His Way. That was something I DID NOT WANT.
Submission doesn't come easily-- especially to leaders, but its dividends are definitely higher than the dividends of Rebellion.
An old saint once said to me, "God always gives the BEST to those who leave the CHOICE to Him." I believe it is true.
ATTITUDES
ATTITUDES
The word "ATTITUDE" is not found in the Bible, as such, but there are at least a couple of places where a SYNONYMOUS word is used. In both places, there is an implication made that we can CONTROL our relationship to other things, or people, or circumstances. "ATTITUDE" defines our POSITION of relationship to these other things.
Philippians 2:5 Let this MIND (Strong's 5426) be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Here the key word is "LET THIS MIND" be in you. YOU can control the state of your mind. If you are happy, it is because you CHOOSE to be happy. If you are glum, it is because you CHOOSE to be glum. Circumstances are unable to control our state of mind. We do that-- every day.
The word "MIND" (Strong's 5426) is translated "SET AFFECTION" in Colossians 3:2 SET YOUR AFFECTION on things above, not on things on the earth.
Here, again, the word "SET" puts the responsibility squarely on our shoulders. We love what we WANT to love. We are NOT like pawns on the chess board. We are NOT VICTIMS of our likes and dislikes. We CAN control our affections. Our MINDSET is the result of choices which WE make.
Surveys have shown that when people are "laid off" in large corporations, 37% are caused by incompetence. The other 53% are dismissed because of an ATTITUDE DEFICIENCY. Attitudes have a direct bearing on relationships at work, at home, and in the community.
Having (cultivating) a poor attitude REPELS people, even our friends, from us. They don't like to be around us.
Conversely, people tend to GRAVITATE toward a person who has a cheerful, positive attitude toward his circumstances, and life in general.
There is a poem I had to learn over 60 years ago:
"I read within a poet's book, a word that starred the page.
'Stone walls do not a prison make, nor iron bars a cage.'
Yes, that is true, and something more, you'll find where 'ere you roam
That gilded walls and marble floors
can never make a home.
But every house where love abides,
and friendship is a guest
Is surely home, and Home Sweet Home,
for there the heart can rest." (author forgotten)
Our homes are what we make them by our attitudes in the vicissitudes of everyday life.
No one likes to wash dirty dishes, but we need to be THANKFUL for dirty dishes instead of griping about them.
Sometimes we have a tendency to wish we had better things than we have, and perhaps envy those who do.
Possessions can "grab" our hearts to such an extent they contribute to our Spiritual ruin. "Remember Lot's wife"
Our father Abraham, who became a FRIEND OF GOD, had two predominant things in his life-- A TENT, and AN ALTAR. A tent is sufficient if you have been promised the world, and are looking for a city that has foundations-- an Eternal, enduring city. A tent is a declaration that we are pilgrims and strangers here-- just passing through. A transitory tennant.
The altar helps in the preparation of the heart to inhabit that Eternal City. What else is important?
Many of us today have such elaborate houses and other possessions that our worship has to be curtailed just to take care of our holdings. "Where your treasure is."
Is this right in the sight of God?
The word "ATTITUDE" is not found in the Bible, as such, but there are at least a couple of places where a SYNONYMOUS word is used. In both places, there is an implication made that we can CONTROL our relationship to other things, or people, or circumstances. "ATTITUDE" defines our POSITION of relationship to these other things.
Philippians 2:5 Let this MIND (Strong's 5426) be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Here the key word is "LET THIS MIND" be in you. YOU can control the state of your mind. If you are happy, it is because you CHOOSE to be happy. If you are glum, it is because you CHOOSE to be glum. Circumstances are unable to control our state of mind. We do that-- every day.
The word "MIND" (Strong's 5426) is translated "SET AFFECTION" in Colossians 3:2 SET YOUR AFFECTION on things above, not on things on the earth.
Here, again, the word "SET" puts the responsibility squarely on our shoulders. We love what we WANT to love. We are NOT like pawns on the chess board. We are NOT VICTIMS of our likes and dislikes. We CAN control our affections. Our MINDSET is the result of choices which WE make.
Surveys have shown that when people are "laid off" in large corporations, 37% are caused by incompetence. The other 53% are dismissed because of an ATTITUDE DEFICIENCY. Attitudes have a direct bearing on relationships at work, at home, and in the community.
Having (cultivating) a poor attitude REPELS people, even our friends, from us. They don't like to be around us.
Conversely, people tend to GRAVITATE toward a person who has a cheerful, positive attitude toward his circumstances, and life in general.
There is a poem I had to learn over 60 years ago:
"I read within a poet's book, a word that starred the page.
'Stone walls do not a prison make, nor iron bars a cage.'
Yes, that is true, and something more, you'll find where 'ere you roam
That gilded walls and marble floors
can never make a home.
But every house where love abides,
and friendship is a guest
Is surely home, and Home Sweet Home,
for there the heart can rest." (author forgotten)
Our homes are what we make them by our attitudes in the vicissitudes of everyday life.
No one likes to wash dirty dishes, but we need to be THANKFUL for dirty dishes instead of griping about them.
Sometimes we have a tendency to wish we had better things than we have, and perhaps envy those who do.
Possessions can "grab" our hearts to such an extent they contribute to our Spiritual ruin. "Remember Lot's wife"
Our father Abraham, who became a FRIEND OF GOD, had two predominant things in his life-- A TENT, and AN ALTAR. A tent is sufficient if you have been promised the world, and are looking for a city that has foundations-- an Eternal, enduring city. A tent is a declaration that we are pilgrims and strangers here-- just passing through. A transitory tennant.
The altar helps in the preparation of the heart to inhabit that Eternal City. What else is important?
Many of us today have such elaborate houses and other possessions that our worship has to be curtailed just to take care of our holdings. "Where your treasure is."
Is this right in the sight of God?
BE THANKFUL UNTO HIM
BE THANKFUL UNTO HIM
Sometimes I wish that the original text of the Bible would have been written in English instead of Hebrew and Greek. Sometimes there are precious jewels which are lost in the process of translation. Today I wondered about Psalms 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, [and] into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, [and] bless his name.
I wondered about the two words, and their respective meanings. "Thanksgiving" comes from a Hebrew word which is used frequently with the word "sacrifice". It is also used to denote the lifting up or stretching forth of the hands, in an attitude of worship. Perhaps "worship" would be closest to its real intent.
"Thankful" comes from a Hebrew which also carries the thought of extending the hands, but more in praise and vocal confession (declaring) the goodness of God.
It is used "shoot" one time, as "sending out" hands and mouth in testimony to God. In the original language, it carrys the thought of a weapon in battle. Our giving of thanks to God is the essence of lobbing grenades into the camp of the enemy.
Conversely, a lack of thankfulness, or a lack of expressing thanks, can leave us vulnerable to evil forces.
Romans 1:21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified [him] not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.
Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
Psalms 69:30 I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving. [This] also shall please the LORD better than an ox [or] bullock that hath horns and hoofs. The humble shall see [this, and] be glad: and your heart shall live that seek God.
A scripture came to my mind last evening. II Corinthians 4:15 For all things [are] for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
Paul was telling the Corinthian saints that his labors and pains, coupled with their giving of thanks would be to the glory of God. His "light afflictions" were working toward an Eternal weight of glory.
To me, it is telling us that a great deal is hinged upon our attitude of Thanksgiving, or a lack of it. II Chronicles 16:9 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of [them] whose heart [is] perfect toward him.
Two other scriptures were quickened to me also last night. They have to do with our attitude and relationship to God. Look at them with me.
Psalms 33:18 Behold, the eye of the LORD [is] upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy;
Psalms 147:11 The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy.
Quite a combination-- Thanksgiving, a heart that is perfect toward Him-- fearin Him-- hoping in His Mercy.
Sounds like a winner to me!
Sometimes I wish that the original text of the Bible would have been written in English instead of Hebrew and Greek. Sometimes there are precious jewels which are lost in the process of translation. Today I wondered about Psalms 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, [and] into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, [and] bless his name.
I wondered about the two words, and their respective meanings. "Thanksgiving" comes from a Hebrew word which is used frequently with the word "sacrifice". It is also used to denote the lifting up or stretching forth of the hands, in an attitude of worship. Perhaps "worship" would be closest to its real intent.
"Thankful" comes from a Hebrew which also carries the thought of extending the hands, but more in praise and vocal confession (declaring) the goodness of God.
It is used "shoot" one time, as "sending out" hands and mouth in testimony to God. In the original language, it carrys the thought of a weapon in battle. Our giving of thanks to God is the essence of lobbing grenades into the camp of the enemy.
Conversely, a lack of thankfulness, or a lack of expressing thanks, can leave us vulnerable to evil forces.
Romans 1:21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified [him] not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.
Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
Psalms 69:30 I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving. [This] also shall please the LORD better than an ox [or] bullock that hath horns and hoofs. The humble shall see [this, and] be glad: and your heart shall live that seek God.
A scripture came to my mind last evening. II Corinthians 4:15 For all things [are] for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
Paul was telling the Corinthian saints that his labors and pains, coupled with their giving of thanks would be to the glory of God. His "light afflictions" were working toward an Eternal weight of glory.
To me, it is telling us that a great deal is hinged upon our attitude of Thanksgiving, or a lack of it. II Chronicles 16:9 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of [them] whose heart [is] perfect toward him.
Two other scriptures were quickened to me also last night. They have to do with our attitude and relationship to God. Look at them with me.
Psalms 33:18 Behold, the eye of the LORD [is] upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy;
Psalms 147:11 The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy.
Quite a combination-- Thanksgiving, a heart that is perfect toward Him-- fearin Him-- hoping in His Mercy.
Sounds like a winner to me!
Thursday, August 17, 2006
I SUFFER NOT
I SUFFER NOT
When I was a kid, in the 1920’s, my mother and sisters all wore their hair long. I didn’t think much about it, until one day Bernice had one of the Stemper boys (closest neighbors down the road) do a “bob job” on her head.
When Papa got home from the fields that day, he “went into orbit” BIG TIME. I didn’t get to see all of it, for I was still in the age of “protection” from the crises of the family.
But, a family crisis it was, of major proportions, for Papa and Mama were desperately determined to be pleasing in the sight of the Lord.
I never was told what the solution was determined to be, but I did know that there was a considerable amount of extra Bible reading done for several day after that.
When I became older, and married, I became concerned about being right in the sight of God. I wanted to be sure that I directed my family in the way that was right, according to the Scriptures. I have often wished I had asked Papa how he resolved the issue in his own mind, but I regrettably neglected to do it until it was too late.
As I studied the main spot in the New Testament where it gives instruction about women having long hair , (1 Cor 11) I would give up in despair, for it was so hard to understand why God would be so concerned about such things.
I could not see the correlation between 1Cor 11 and the place where it said that “In Christ there is not male, female, bond or free, etc, (Gal 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.)
Which is correct? Surely there is a valid explanation if I can find it. But I had to repeatedly return it to the “shelf” for lack of understanding. I have done that many times on different subjects while seeking for an answer to knotty problems.
The Lord has never failed me yet. He has always answered my questions if I would wait patiently on Him for the answer. One day He gave me the beginning of the explanation about long hair for women.
He said to my spirit, “It was a Jewish custom that was carried over into the Church by Jewish men who came to know Jesus. It was NEVER a COMMAND OF GOD.
Could I believe my “spiritual ears”? Was it really from the Lord, or had I heard another voice?
It was ONLY a beginning, for there were many unanswered questions. Some pastors were making a real issue of long hair for women—even to the point of making it a SIN to not have it.
I was definitely “bucking the current” of opinion in certain Pentecostal circles. I figured the best thing I could do was to “keep my neck drawn in” and not say too much. That approach was definitely contrary to my usual modus operandi, for if I knew something, I wanted to tell everyone I saw about it. In my heart there was a smattering of contempt for anyone who knew something, but would not preach or teach it for fear it would not be accepted, or that “the people were not ready for it yet.”
Then, one day recently, I was re-reading 1Cor 11, and I had a hard time getting past one word. The word “ORDINANCES” captured my attention, and wouldn’t “let go”. What is an ordinance, in Bible language?
1Co 11:2 Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ORDINANCES, as I delivered them to you.
I was shocked by what I found in the E-sword Bible program on my computer. The Hebrew/Greek portion gives the definition of the original words, and where they are used in the different ways in the King James Version of the Bible.
G3862
παράδοσις
paradosis (Definition, in part: “Specifically the Jewish Traditionary Law”) MF.
Total KJV Occurrences: 13
tradition, 10
Mat_15:2-3 (2), Mat_15:6, Mar_7:3, Mar_7:5, Mar_7:8-9 (2), Mar_7:13, Col_2:8, 2Th_3:6
traditions, 2
Gal_1:14, 2Th_2:15
ordinances, 1
1Co_11:2
You can look them up yourself, but please note that in no instance is the word “COMMAND” or “OF GOD” used. Fact is, in MOST of the places where the word is used it is CONTRASTING the TRADITIONS OF MEN with the COMMANDS OF GOD.
Let’s look at some of them. The words are marked with a *---*
Mat 15:1 Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying,
Mat 15:2 WHY DO THY DISCIPLES TRANSGRESS THE *TRADITION*of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread.
Mat 15:3 But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye ALSO TRANSGRESS THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD BY YOUR *TRADITION*?
Mat 15:4 For God commanded, saying, Honor thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.
Mat 15:5 But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me;
Mat 15:6 And honor not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the COMMANDMENT OF GOD OF NONE EFFECT BY YOUR *TRADITION*.
Mar 7:2 And when they saw some of his disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashen, hands, they found fault.
Mar 7:3 For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, HOLDING THE *TRADITION* OF THE ELDERS.
Mar 7:4 And when they come from the market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things there be, WHICH THEY HAVE RECEIVED TO HOLD, as the washing of cups, and pots, brazen vessels, and of tables.
Mar 7:5 Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, Why walk not thy disciples ACCORDING TO THE *TRADITION* OF THE ELDERS, but eat bread with unwashen hands?
Mar 7:6 He answered and said unto them, Well hath Isaiah prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoreth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.
Mar 7:7 Howbeit in vain do they worship me, TEACHING FOR DOCTRINES THE COMMANDMENTS OF MEN.
Mar 7:8 FOR LAYING ASIDE THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD, YE HOLD THE *TRADITION* OF MEN, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.
Mar 7:9 And he said unto them, Full well YE REJECT THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD, THAT YE MAY KEEP YOUR OWN *TRADITION*.
Mar 7:13 MAKING THE WORD OF GOD OF NONE EFFECT THROUGH YOUR *TRADITION*, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.
Col 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, AFTER THE *TRADITION* OF MEN, AFTER THE RUDIMENTS OF THE WORLD, AND NOT AFTER CHRIST.
2Th 3:6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and NOT AFTER THE *TRADITION* WHICH HE RECEIVED OF US.
Gal 1:14 And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, BEING MORE EXCEEDINGLY ZEALOUS OF THE * TRADITIONS* OF MY FATHERS.
2Th 2:15 Therefore, brethren, STAND FAST, AND HOLD THE *TRADITIONS* WHICH YE HAVE BEEN TAUGHT, WHETHER BY WORD, OR OUR EPISTLE.
1Co 11:2 Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, AND KEEP THE *ORDINANCES*, AS I DELIVERED THEM TO YOU.
I had, then, heard the Spirit correctly when He explained to me in earlier years, that the teachings of Paul to the Corinthians were the JEWISH CUSTOMS adapted to the Church of the Living God. THEY WERE NOT THE COMMANDS OF GOD!
We see the same influence of the Jewish traditions in the first epistle to Timothy.
They were classic cases of Missionaries establishing the customs of their native country in the Churches and lives of the folks they win to Jesus Christ from different cultures. They won’t always fit.
Pentecost has some very wonderful Truths, and we rejoice in them. Pentecost also has some hurtful traditions (customs) that were brought in by the people who came in from other denominations. Unfortunately, some of those traditions are becoming established as DIVINE EDICTS in some areas of the Christian Community.
They will produce nothing but confusion and sorrow down the road a bit farther.
When we understand the intense displeasure of the high ranking Jews (Paul had been one of them) toward the female gender, we can readily perceive what his thinking had been.
My understanding of Jewish theology is that they blamed Eve for ALL of the problems of the human race. Women were necessary, but they were also basically evil. They COULD BE, and SHOULD BE treated with utmost disrespect. A Jewish man MUST at all costs, keep his woman under control. He could beat her for the slightest mistake. He could also divorce her for any reason that was handy. The teaching of Jesus was causing some difficulty to that custom. Hence: Mat 19:3 The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?
I read somewhere that the VERY RELIGIOUS Jewish men had such disdain for their “necessary, but evil” wife that they would not even look at her body while using it for their own gratification.
That would help us to understand some of Paul’s writings. I am glad he was honest enough to never say they were commands from God. THEY ARE NOT!
Ti 2:9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array.
1Ti 2:10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.
1Ti 2:11 Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.
1Ti 2:12 But I (Paul) suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.
1Ti 2:13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve.
1Ti 2:14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.
1Ti 2:15 Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.
Oh, By the way! The term “Long Hair” comes from the Greek word that means “Tressed”, or “Ringlets”—Curled, if you please.
It doesn’t give any other definition, like Centimeters, Inches, etc..
When I was a kid, in the 1920’s, my mother and sisters all wore their hair long. I didn’t think much about it, until one day Bernice had one of the Stemper boys (closest neighbors down the road) do a “bob job” on her head.
When Papa got home from the fields that day, he “went into orbit” BIG TIME. I didn’t get to see all of it, for I was still in the age of “protection” from the crises of the family.
But, a family crisis it was, of major proportions, for Papa and Mama were desperately determined to be pleasing in the sight of the Lord.
I never was told what the solution was determined to be, but I did know that there was a considerable amount of extra Bible reading done for several day after that.
When I became older, and married, I became concerned about being right in the sight of God. I wanted to be sure that I directed my family in the way that was right, according to the Scriptures. I have often wished I had asked Papa how he resolved the issue in his own mind, but I regrettably neglected to do it until it was too late.
As I studied the main spot in the New Testament where it gives instruction about women having long hair , (1 Cor 11) I would give up in despair, for it was so hard to understand why God would be so concerned about such things.
I could not see the correlation between 1Cor 11 and the place where it said that “In Christ there is not male, female, bond or free, etc, (Gal 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.)
Which is correct? Surely there is a valid explanation if I can find it. But I had to repeatedly return it to the “shelf” for lack of understanding. I have done that many times on different subjects while seeking for an answer to knotty problems.
The Lord has never failed me yet. He has always answered my questions if I would wait patiently on Him for the answer. One day He gave me the beginning of the explanation about long hair for women.
He said to my spirit, “It was a Jewish custom that was carried over into the Church by Jewish men who came to know Jesus. It was NEVER a COMMAND OF GOD.
Could I believe my “spiritual ears”? Was it really from the Lord, or had I heard another voice?
It was ONLY a beginning, for there were many unanswered questions. Some pastors were making a real issue of long hair for women—even to the point of making it a SIN to not have it.
I was definitely “bucking the current” of opinion in certain Pentecostal circles. I figured the best thing I could do was to “keep my neck drawn in” and not say too much. That approach was definitely contrary to my usual modus operandi, for if I knew something, I wanted to tell everyone I saw about it. In my heart there was a smattering of contempt for anyone who knew something, but would not preach or teach it for fear it would not be accepted, or that “the people were not ready for it yet.”
Then, one day recently, I was re-reading 1Cor 11, and I had a hard time getting past one word. The word “ORDINANCES” captured my attention, and wouldn’t “let go”. What is an ordinance, in Bible language?
1Co 11:2 Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ORDINANCES, as I delivered them to you.
I was shocked by what I found in the E-sword Bible program on my computer. The Hebrew/Greek portion gives the definition of the original words, and where they are used in the different ways in the King James Version of the Bible.
G3862
παράδοσις
paradosis (Definition, in part: “Specifically the Jewish Traditionary Law”) MF.
Total KJV Occurrences: 13
tradition, 10
Mat_15:2-3 (2), Mat_15:6, Mar_7:3, Mar_7:5, Mar_7:8-9 (2), Mar_7:13, Col_2:8, 2Th_3:6
traditions, 2
Gal_1:14, 2Th_2:15
ordinances, 1
1Co_11:2
You can look them up yourself, but please note that in no instance is the word “COMMAND” or “OF GOD” used. Fact is, in MOST of the places where the word is used it is CONTRASTING the TRADITIONS OF MEN with the COMMANDS OF GOD.
Let’s look at some of them. The words are marked with a *---*
Mat 15:1 Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying,
Mat 15:2 WHY DO THY DISCIPLES TRANSGRESS THE *TRADITION*of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread.
Mat 15:3 But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye ALSO TRANSGRESS THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD BY YOUR *TRADITION*?
Mat 15:4 For God commanded, saying, Honor thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.
Mat 15:5 But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me;
Mat 15:6 And honor not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the COMMANDMENT OF GOD OF NONE EFFECT BY YOUR *TRADITION*.
Mar 7:2 And when they saw some of his disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashen, hands, they found fault.
Mar 7:3 For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, HOLDING THE *TRADITION* OF THE ELDERS.
Mar 7:4 And when they come from the market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things there be, WHICH THEY HAVE RECEIVED TO HOLD, as the washing of cups, and pots, brazen vessels, and of tables.
Mar 7:5 Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, Why walk not thy disciples ACCORDING TO THE *TRADITION* OF THE ELDERS, but eat bread with unwashen hands?
Mar 7:6 He answered and said unto them, Well hath Isaiah prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoreth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.
Mar 7:7 Howbeit in vain do they worship me, TEACHING FOR DOCTRINES THE COMMANDMENTS OF MEN.
Mar 7:8 FOR LAYING ASIDE THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD, YE HOLD THE *TRADITION* OF MEN, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.
Mar 7:9 And he said unto them, Full well YE REJECT THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD, THAT YE MAY KEEP YOUR OWN *TRADITION*.
Mar 7:13 MAKING THE WORD OF GOD OF NONE EFFECT THROUGH YOUR *TRADITION*, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.
Col 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, AFTER THE *TRADITION* OF MEN, AFTER THE RUDIMENTS OF THE WORLD, AND NOT AFTER CHRIST.
2Th 3:6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and NOT AFTER THE *TRADITION* WHICH HE RECEIVED OF US.
Gal 1:14 And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, BEING MORE EXCEEDINGLY ZEALOUS OF THE * TRADITIONS* OF MY FATHERS.
2Th 2:15 Therefore, brethren, STAND FAST, AND HOLD THE *TRADITIONS* WHICH YE HAVE BEEN TAUGHT, WHETHER BY WORD, OR OUR EPISTLE.
1Co 11:2 Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, AND KEEP THE *ORDINANCES*, AS I DELIVERED THEM TO YOU.
I had, then, heard the Spirit correctly when He explained to me in earlier years, that the teachings of Paul to the Corinthians were the JEWISH CUSTOMS adapted to the Church of the Living God. THEY WERE NOT THE COMMANDS OF GOD!
We see the same influence of the Jewish traditions in the first epistle to Timothy.
They were classic cases of Missionaries establishing the customs of their native country in the Churches and lives of the folks they win to Jesus Christ from different cultures. They won’t always fit.
Pentecost has some very wonderful Truths, and we rejoice in them. Pentecost also has some hurtful traditions (customs) that were brought in by the people who came in from other denominations. Unfortunately, some of those traditions are becoming established as DIVINE EDICTS in some areas of the Christian Community.
They will produce nothing but confusion and sorrow down the road a bit farther.
When we understand the intense displeasure of the high ranking Jews (Paul had been one of them) toward the female gender, we can readily perceive what his thinking had been.
My understanding of Jewish theology is that they blamed Eve for ALL of the problems of the human race. Women were necessary, but they were also basically evil. They COULD BE, and SHOULD BE treated with utmost disrespect. A Jewish man MUST at all costs, keep his woman under control. He could beat her for the slightest mistake. He could also divorce her for any reason that was handy. The teaching of Jesus was causing some difficulty to that custom. Hence: Mat 19:3 The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?
I read somewhere that the VERY RELIGIOUS Jewish men had such disdain for their “necessary, but evil” wife that they would not even look at her body while using it for their own gratification.
That would help us to understand some of Paul’s writings. I am glad he was honest enough to never say they were commands from God. THEY ARE NOT!
Ti 2:9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array.
1Ti 2:10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.
1Ti 2:11 Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.
1Ti 2:12 But I (Paul) suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.
1Ti 2:13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve.
1Ti 2:14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.
1Ti 2:15 Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.
Oh, By the way! The term “Long Hair” comes from the Greek word that means “Tressed”, or “Ringlets”—Curled, if you please.
It doesn’t give any other definition, like Centimeters, Inches, etc..
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
THE ANOINTING
THE ANOINTING
I set out one day to study the topic of the Anointing. It became exceedingly interesting before I got very far into it. I will share a few thoughts with you.
When I was a child, growing up in a Pentecostal home, and exposed to Pentecostal preaching, I got the impression that it was the anointing that caused the Preacher to talk real fast, real loud, and say "Amen, Glory to God" real often-- up to a hundred times in a simple sermon-- using them as "fillers" to keep from having to stop and think of something more to say.
It was more or less universal belief that this was the Anointing, and the only way the Anointing was manifest. It seemed that the Lord was more or less in favor of the procedure, for some mighty works were performed in this way.
There are still many places where this is still the pattern of operation, and God still seems to be looking on it with favor.
But I discovered that the Anointing of God can also take other forms of operation.
In the Old Testament, men were anointed by pouring a special oil over their heads-- to a special office in the nation of Israel. Priests and Kings were set in office that way. Kings and the High Priests were "anointed" for life. Common priests were anointed until they were 50, or in some cases, 55 years of age.
Not all Kings and High Priests lived deserving lives after being anointed, but they were still respected by God-fearing people, because of having been anointed for life.
Saul and Eli are two examples of failure to live worthy of the anointing.
In the case of Samuel anointing David, it was accompanied by the Spirit of God coming upon, and abiding on him as long as he lived.
That brought me to the point of realization that it is the SPIRIT which constitutes the REAL ANOINTING, not the oil, nor the hands that were laid upon the individual.
Psalms 89:20 I have found David my servant; with my holy oil have I anointed him:
I Samuel 16:13 Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the SPIRIT OF THE LORD came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel rose up, and went to Ramah.
In some cases, the Anointing is in the form of a COMMAND of the Spirit, to accomplish a specific thing which God has determined should be done. Cyrus is one that I found.
Isaiah 45:1 Thus saith the LORD to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have holden, to subdue nations before him; and I will loose the loins of kings, to open before him the two leaved gates; and the gates shall not be shut;
I discovered that it takes DESIRE, to receive the Anointing of God on our lives. God seldom pours out of His Spirit on those who do not care about Spiritual things, and have no desire to be used of the Lord.
II Kings 2:9 And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me.
I also discovered that a person must be ANOINTABLE, before God will put His Spirit on them for an special purpose. In those cases, God usually picks a person who has their own personal life in fair order, and has demonstrated integrity of character. Joshua is an example of this.
Numbers 27:18 And the LORD said unto Moses, Take thee Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom [is] the spirit, and lay thine hand upon him; And set him before Eleazar the priest, and before all the congregation; and give him a charge in their sight. And thou shalt put [some] of thine honour upon him, that all the congregation of the children of Israel may be obedient.
The elders of Israel were also of a similar calibre.
Numbers 11:17 And I will come down and talk with thee there: and I will take of the spirit which [is] upon thee, and will put [it] upon them; and they shall bear the burden of the people with thee, that thou bear [it] not thyself alone.
Numbers 11:25 And the LORD came down in a cloud, and spake unto him, and took of the spirit that [was] upon him, and gave [it] unto the seventy elders: and it came to pass, [that], when the spirit rested upon them, they prophesied, and did not cease.
Isaiah gave a command of the Spirit one day, and Paul directed it to a people of the New Testament Church. The message was that God will require a clean life before He will place a lasting Anointing upon a person.
Isaiah 52:11 Depart ye, depart ye, go ye out from thence, touch no unclean [thing]; go ye out of the midst of her; be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the LORD.
II Corinthians 6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean [thing]; and I will receive you,
By this time I was becoming aware that the REAL ANOINTING is performed by the SPIRIT OF GOD, rather than with oil and the hands of others. God, who KNOWS ALL HEARTS does the choosing and anointing of His children.
Today, men are anointed and ordained by Christian organizations and denominations, but those anointings are only for the purpose of being officers in the denomination. They do not always signify that God has placed an anointing upon the life. In other words, a position of leadership in a denomination does not, necessarily, constitute a valid anointing of God.
It has been my observation that many men and women who are ordinary "laymen" in many congregations carry a much heavier anointing than do the Pastor and other officers in the church.
II Corinthians 1:21 Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, [is] God;
Isaiah 61:1 The spirit of the Lord GOD [is] upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to [them that are] bound;
Acts 10:38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.
I set out one day to study the topic of the Anointing. It became exceedingly interesting before I got very far into it. I will share a few thoughts with you.
When I was a child, growing up in a Pentecostal home, and exposed to Pentecostal preaching, I got the impression that it was the anointing that caused the Preacher to talk real fast, real loud, and say "Amen, Glory to God" real often-- up to a hundred times in a simple sermon-- using them as "fillers" to keep from having to stop and think of something more to say.
It was more or less universal belief that this was the Anointing, and the only way the Anointing was manifest. It seemed that the Lord was more or less in favor of the procedure, for some mighty works were performed in this way.
There are still many places where this is still the pattern of operation, and God still seems to be looking on it with favor.
But I discovered that the Anointing of God can also take other forms of operation.
In the Old Testament, men were anointed by pouring a special oil over their heads-- to a special office in the nation of Israel. Priests and Kings were set in office that way. Kings and the High Priests were "anointed" for life. Common priests were anointed until they were 50, or in some cases, 55 years of age.
Not all Kings and High Priests lived deserving lives after being anointed, but they were still respected by God-fearing people, because of having been anointed for life.
Saul and Eli are two examples of failure to live worthy of the anointing.
In the case of Samuel anointing David, it was accompanied by the Spirit of God coming upon, and abiding on him as long as he lived.
That brought me to the point of realization that it is the SPIRIT which constitutes the REAL ANOINTING, not the oil, nor the hands that were laid upon the individual.
Psalms 89:20 I have found David my servant; with my holy oil have I anointed him:
I Samuel 16:13 Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the SPIRIT OF THE LORD came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel rose up, and went to Ramah.
In some cases, the Anointing is in the form of a COMMAND of the Spirit, to accomplish a specific thing which God has determined should be done. Cyrus is one that I found.
Isaiah 45:1 Thus saith the LORD to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have holden, to subdue nations before him; and I will loose the loins of kings, to open before him the two leaved gates; and the gates shall not be shut;
I discovered that it takes DESIRE, to receive the Anointing of God on our lives. God seldom pours out of His Spirit on those who do not care about Spiritual things, and have no desire to be used of the Lord.
II Kings 2:9 And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me.
I also discovered that a person must be ANOINTABLE, before God will put His Spirit on them for an special purpose. In those cases, God usually picks a person who has their own personal life in fair order, and has demonstrated integrity of character. Joshua is an example of this.
Numbers 27:18 And the LORD said unto Moses, Take thee Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom [is] the spirit, and lay thine hand upon him; And set him before Eleazar the priest, and before all the congregation; and give him a charge in their sight. And thou shalt put [some] of thine honour upon him, that all the congregation of the children of Israel may be obedient.
The elders of Israel were also of a similar calibre.
Numbers 11:17 And I will come down and talk with thee there: and I will take of the spirit which [is] upon thee, and will put [it] upon them; and they shall bear the burden of the people with thee, that thou bear [it] not thyself alone.
Numbers 11:25 And the LORD came down in a cloud, and spake unto him, and took of the spirit that [was] upon him, and gave [it] unto the seventy elders: and it came to pass, [that], when the spirit rested upon them, they prophesied, and did not cease.
Isaiah gave a command of the Spirit one day, and Paul directed it to a people of the New Testament Church. The message was that God will require a clean life before He will place a lasting Anointing upon a person.
Isaiah 52:11 Depart ye, depart ye, go ye out from thence, touch no unclean [thing]; go ye out of the midst of her; be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the LORD.
II Corinthians 6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean [thing]; and I will receive you,
By this time I was becoming aware that the REAL ANOINTING is performed by the SPIRIT OF GOD, rather than with oil and the hands of others. God, who KNOWS ALL HEARTS does the choosing and anointing of His children.
Today, men are anointed and ordained by Christian organizations and denominations, but those anointings are only for the purpose of being officers in the denomination. They do not always signify that God has placed an anointing upon the life. In other words, a position of leadership in a denomination does not, necessarily, constitute a valid anointing of God.
It has been my observation that many men and women who are ordinary "laymen" in many congregations carry a much heavier anointing than do the Pastor and other officers in the church.
II Corinthians 1:21 Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, [is] God;
Isaiah 61:1 The spirit of the Lord GOD [is] upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to [them that are] bound;
Acts 10:38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.
BECAUSE
BECAUSE
God usually has a reason for everything He does, but He doesn't always tell us what it is.
Today, I was reminded of what Moses told Israel in the wilderness. Deuteronomy 7:7 The LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye [were] the fewest of all people: But because the LORD loved you, and because he would keep the oath which he had sworn unto your fathers, hath the LORD brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt.
Biblical history is full of the account of the deliverance from Egypt. God was keeping a covenant with Abraham which had been made hundreds of years before.
Biblical history also recounts the many times Israel went astray, and had to be punished for their error. But God was always merciful to them when they called on Him out of their distress. He preserved them until they had brought forth Jesus, who was to be their Messiah. "He came unto His own--". The nation had served its purpose, and now God would deal with them through Jesus Christ, on an individual basis.
They would be known as the Church of Jesus Christ. They would become the City of the Living God, the New Jerusalem, and Mount Sion.
Abraham "looked for a City which hath foundations." He was looking for the Church. He saw it afar off, and embraced it, but could not possibly live long enough for it to become a reality in the earth.
The "City" had its beginning on the day of Pentecost, when Jesus became Emmanuel, God with Us. This is the Jerusalem we are to pray for. Psalms 122:6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee.
The Church, like our forefathers of Israel, have neglected to obey the voice of God, and are in "phase two" presently, bondage.
Today, we see the people of God in a state of captivities of several forms. In fact, Isaiah tells of seven different types of bondages, and says that God will stretch forth His hand the second time to recover His people.
Isaiah 11:11 And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] the Lord shall set his hand again the second time to recover the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria, and from Egypt, and from Pathros, and from Cush, and from Elam, and from Shinar, and from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea.
We are cautioned not to abandon the Church on account of its captivity, but to pray for those who are responsible in it.
Jeremiah 29:7 And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the LORD for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace.
God is still on the Throne, and still remembers Abraham. He will bring about a very mighty deliverance in honor of His promise to the "Father of the Faithful."
Jeremiah 16:14 Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that it shall no more be said, The LORD liveth, that brought up the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt; But, The LORD liveth, that brought up the children of Israel from the land of the north, and from all the lands whither he had driven them: and I will bring them again into their land that I gave unto their fathers.
No one knows how much worse conditions will have to get before the Church cries for deliverance. Somewhere down the line, we will get on our knees and call on the God of Abraham.
Ezekiel 36:37 Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will yet [for] this be inquired of by the house of Israel, to do [it] for them; I will increase them with men like a flock.
God usually has a reason for everything He does, but He doesn't always tell us what it is.
Today, I was reminded of what Moses told Israel in the wilderness. Deuteronomy 7:7 The LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye [were] the fewest of all people: But because the LORD loved you, and because he would keep the oath which he had sworn unto your fathers, hath the LORD brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt.
Biblical history is full of the account of the deliverance from Egypt. God was keeping a covenant with Abraham which had been made hundreds of years before.
Biblical history also recounts the many times Israel went astray, and had to be punished for their error. But God was always merciful to them when they called on Him out of their distress. He preserved them until they had brought forth Jesus, who was to be their Messiah. "He came unto His own--". The nation had served its purpose, and now God would deal with them through Jesus Christ, on an individual basis.
They would be known as the Church of Jesus Christ. They would become the City of the Living God, the New Jerusalem, and Mount Sion.
Abraham "looked for a City which hath foundations." He was looking for the Church. He saw it afar off, and embraced it, but could not possibly live long enough for it to become a reality in the earth.
The "City" had its beginning on the day of Pentecost, when Jesus became Emmanuel, God with Us. This is the Jerusalem we are to pray for. Psalms 122:6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee.
The Church, like our forefathers of Israel, have neglected to obey the voice of God, and are in "phase two" presently, bondage.
Today, we see the people of God in a state of captivities of several forms. In fact, Isaiah tells of seven different types of bondages, and says that God will stretch forth His hand the second time to recover His people.
Isaiah 11:11 And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] the Lord shall set his hand again the second time to recover the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria, and from Egypt, and from Pathros, and from Cush, and from Elam, and from Shinar, and from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea.
We are cautioned not to abandon the Church on account of its captivity, but to pray for those who are responsible in it.
Jeremiah 29:7 And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the LORD for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace.
God is still on the Throne, and still remembers Abraham. He will bring about a very mighty deliverance in honor of His promise to the "Father of the Faithful."
Jeremiah 16:14 Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that it shall no more be said, The LORD liveth, that brought up the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt; But, The LORD liveth, that brought up the children of Israel from the land of the north, and from all the lands whither he had driven them: and I will bring them again into their land that I gave unto their fathers.
No one knows how much worse conditions will have to get before the Church cries for deliverance. Somewhere down the line, we will get on our knees and call on the God of Abraham.
Ezekiel 36:37 Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will yet [for] this be inquired of by the house of Israel, to do [it] for them; I will increase them with men like a flock.
I HAVE COMMANDED
"I HAVE COMMANDED"
Recently my attention has been directed to this phrase which is used several times in Scripture. There are some places where the Lord issued commands, and the people involved knew nothing about it. Look at two incidents in the life of Elijah:
I Kings 17:4 And it shall be, [that] thou shalt drink of the brook; and I have commanded the ravens to feed thee there.
If you understand ravens, you will know that it had to be God who caused them to bring meat to the Prophet regularly. Perhaps they wondered what it was all about, the same as we do when we are used of God for a specific purpose.
The poor widow woman is a classic example of a person being under the Command of God, and not being aware of it at all.
I Kings 17:9 Arise, get thee to Zarephath, which [belongeth] to Zidon, and dwell there: behold, I have commanded a widow woman there to sustain thee.
Feeding a Prophet was the farthest thing from her mind as she was picking up sticks that day. She was a woman laden with sorrow and grief. Her husband was dead, and her best efforts to keep body and soul together were failing. This was it. The end had come for her and the boy. I wonder, could she have been crying when the Prophet approached her? Or was she singing victoriously, knowing that her pain was, at last, coming to an end? Who knows?
One thing is certain. It wouldn't make any difference if she gave away the last cake she had meal for. It would only shorten the misery for them.
She didn't know about God's command to her to feed the Man of God. She had, non-the-less, been commanded by God to do it.
All this makes me wonder about some of us. Are we under command from God to do a specific thing for Him, and perhaps are not aware of His command to us?
Could it be possible that God has ordained that we do differently than we are now doing-- that we go with His Word where we are not now going?
Are we SURE we are doing the bidding of the Lord?
Isaiah 13:3 I have commanded my sanctified ones, I have also called my mighty ones for mine anger, [even] them that rejoice in my highness. Are we included here?
Acts 13:47 For so hath the Lord commanded us, [saying], I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth.
Also, I am wondering if, perhaps, we may be doing or saying some things for Him which He has NOT commanded us to do or say.
Jeremiah 29:23 Because they have committed villany in Israel, -- and have spoken lying words in my name, which I have not commanded them; saith the LORD.
Jeremiah 14:14 Then the LORD said unto me, The prophets prophesy lies in my name: I sent them not, neither have I commanded them, neither spake unto them: they prophesy unto you a false vision and divination, and a thing of nought, and the deceit of their heart.
Do you ever wonder about some of the things we are being taught today, such as "Health and Wealth"? Is the Gospel being "short circuited" before we hear it?
Recently my attention has been directed to this phrase which is used several times in Scripture. There are some places where the Lord issued commands, and the people involved knew nothing about it. Look at two incidents in the life of Elijah:
I Kings 17:4 And it shall be, [that] thou shalt drink of the brook; and I have commanded the ravens to feed thee there.
If you understand ravens, you will know that it had to be God who caused them to bring meat to the Prophet regularly. Perhaps they wondered what it was all about, the same as we do when we are used of God for a specific purpose.
The poor widow woman is a classic example of a person being under the Command of God, and not being aware of it at all.
I Kings 17:9 Arise, get thee to Zarephath, which [belongeth] to Zidon, and dwell there: behold, I have commanded a widow woman there to sustain thee.
Feeding a Prophet was the farthest thing from her mind as she was picking up sticks that day. She was a woman laden with sorrow and grief. Her husband was dead, and her best efforts to keep body and soul together were failing. This was it. The end had come for her and the boy. I wonder, could she have been crying when the Prophet approached her? Or was she singing victoriously, knowing that her pain was, at last, coming to an end? Who knows?
One thing is certain. It wouldn't make any difference if she gave away the last cake she had meal for. It would only shorten the misery for them.
She didn't know about God's command to her to feed the Man of God. She had, non-the-less, been commanded by God to do it.
All this makes me wonder about some of us. Are we under command from God to do a specific thing for Him, and perhaps are not aware of His command to us?
Could it be possible that God has ordained that we do differently than we are now doing-- that we go with His Word where we are not now going?
Are we SURE we are doing the bidding of the Lord?
Isaiah 13:3 I have commanded my sanctified ones, I have also called my mighty ones for mine anger, [even] them that rejoice in my highness. Are we included here?
Acts 13:47 For so hath the Lord commanded us, [saying], I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth.
Also, I am wondering if, perhaps, we may be doing or saying some things for Him which He has NOT commanded us to do or say.
Jeremiah 29:23 Because they have committed villany in Israel, -- and have spoken lying words in my name, which I have not commanded them; saith the LORD.
Jeremiah 14:14 Then the LORD said unto me, The prophets prophesy lies in my name: I sent them not, neither have I commanded them, neither spake unto them: they prophesy unto you a false vision and divination, and a thing of nought, and the deceit of their heart.
Do you ever wonder about some of the things we are being taught today, such as "Health and Wealth"? Is the Gospel being "short circuited" before we hear it?
Saturday, July 08, 2006
CAUGHT UP
CAUGHT UP
There are several places in the New Testament where the term "caught up" is used. An examination of them is enlightening.
The first one we will look at is 2 Corinthians 12:2 "I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth; such an one caught up to the third heaven. See end note.
II Corinthians 12:4 How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.
Paul said he didn't know whether he left his body or not. One thing he did know--he was into another realm entirely. Where and what is "Paradise?'
My mind goes to the conversation which Jesus had with Nicodemus. Notice the words, "up" "down" and "in" as Jesus used them. John 3:13 And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, [even] the Son of man which is in heaven.
Where, exactly, was Jesus while He was conversing with Nicodemus?
Another Scripture that is our favorite is I Thes. 4:16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive [and] remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with
the Lord.
I have some questions about whether we have been given the correct interpretation of this verse. (1) Is the "shout and the voice of the Archangel" supposed to be something audible, or is it figurative language, as so much of the Scripture is? (2) Just what does the "trump of God" consist of, and will it be audible to the human ear?
The third question concerns the phrase "caught up". Does it actually mean leaving terra firma, or is there a hidden meaning to this also?
Next come questions about what we have been taught about "clouds". Does the term mean those things we see in our skies almost every day? Maybe not, when we look at all the places where the term is used in Scripture.
My question about the term "air" just won't go away and be quiet. I am fairly sure that it is not talking about the stuff we breathe. The ONLY other Biblical definition I can find is in Eph 2:2 "Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: This creates more questions than it answers.
Here are a couple more Scriptures for us to look at along this line of thinking.
Revelation 11:12 And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them.
Revelation 12:5 And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and [to] his throne.
E. Warren Anglin brought up this subject. M.F.
End Note: Paul' use of the term "third heaven" is referring to Peter's definition of the "former", which perished in the flood, that which now is, and the one we "look for", or the "third" heaven, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
II Peter 3:6 Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.
II Peter 3:13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
There are several places in the New Testament where the term "caught up" is used. An examination of them is enlightening.
The first one we will look at is 2 Corinthians 12:2 "I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth; such an one caught up to the third heaven. See end note.
II Corinthians 12:4 How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.
Paul said he didn't know whether he left his body or not. One thing he did know--he was into another realm entirely. Where and what is "Paradise?'
My mind goes to the conversation which Jesus had with Nicodemus. Notice the words, "up" "down" and "in" as Jesus used them. John 3:13 And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, [even] the Son of man which is in heaven.
Where, exactly, was Jesus while He was conversing with Nicodemus?
Another Scripture that is our favorite is I Thes. 4:16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive [and] remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with
the Lord.
I have some questions about whether we have been given the correct interpretation of this verse. (1) Is the "shout and the voice of the Archangel" supposed to be something audible, or is it figurative language, as so much of the Scripture is? (2) Just what does the "trump of God" consist of, and will it be audible to the human ear?
The third question concerns the phrase "caught up". Does it actually mean leaving terra firma, or is there a hidden meaning to this also?
Next come questions about what we have been taught about "clouds". Does the term mean those things we see in our skies almost every day? Maybe not, when we look at all the places where the term is used in Scripture.
My question about the term "air" just won't go away and be quiet. I am fairly sure that it is not talking about the stuff we breathe. The ONLY other Biblical definition I can find is in Eph 2:2 "Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: This creates more questions than it answers.
Here are a couple more Scriptures for us to look at along this line of thinking.
Revelation 11:12 And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them.
Revelation 12:5 And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and [to] his throne.
E. Warren Anglin brought up this subject. M.F.
End Note: Paul' use of the term "third heaven" is referring to Peter's definition of the "former", which perished in the flood, that which now is, and the one we "look for", or the "third" heaven, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
II Peter 3:6 Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.
II Peter 3:13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
BEGINNINGS
BEGINNINGS
Pearl and I are old enough now (May, 2006) that we are prone to look back to certain "beginnings" and historically follow them through to either their fulfillment or to their demise.
One such "beginning" was in February of 1942. We were serving as Pastors in the Tieton Pentecostal Church, and had Sis. Thompson, from Nampa, ID. in special meetings. She stayed in our home, and there was usually a morning prayer meeting. People got the Holy Ghost in those meetings.
One day Sis. Thompson ventured to mention to me that God had another "move" of His Spirit for the Church. It was "hidden" in the Scriptures, so that careless eyes would not find it.
When I exhibited an interest, she warily ventured further into what she was seeing in the Word.
She told us about the "Latter Rain" of Joel. She told us about the "Overcomers" of Revelation 2 and 3. She told us about the "Two Witnesses", again in Revelation. She mentioned the "Manchild" and the "Mother Church" of Rev. 12.
Then she "clinched" the whole thing with the "Little Sister" of Song of Solomon.
She readily admitted that she didn't have all the answers, but she felt she had caught a glimpse into the heart of God.
We were so young in age at that time. Louise was just learning to put sentences together, and Marvin was not even in the realm of thought. I had been rejected by the draft board because of poor hearing. The Church in Tieton needed a Pastor, so we agreed to serve, if the saints would help us by telling us if we started to do anything wrong. We still appreciate the help those older saints gave us. They prayed with us, three nights a week for ten weeks. The Church grew, in numbers and Spiritually. They counseled us, warned us, praised us-- the "whole nine yards."
We were hardly able to grasp what the elderly saint was trying to tell us. But seeds had been planted, and we know now that the ground was fertile and rich (Hungry and thirsty for the Truth of God's Word).
Through the years, the seeds began to germinate. Mostly, they did so one at a time.
As they began to grow, we did find that they would intertwine into one Truth. We were to learn later that this one Truth was not exactly what was being taught generally in the Churches.
It was in Cascade, ID. that the "Latter Rain" began to grip our souls. The war was just over, and things had started to get back to normal. But Latter Rain was still more theory than anything else at that time. It was a start.
Our ministry was more of the "flat chest" "little sister" type. We were still very immature in Spiritual things, but very eager to learn. I would pray and agonize over every sermon and Bible Study I was to give. They were "Word", but rather devoid of "Spirit."
One Sunday I ministered from Joel 2, and promised the folks that God would, indeed, pour out of His Spirit on the earth again, and it would be before the Rapture. Some eyebrows were raised at that point.
We knew about the gifts of the Spirit, but they had not been incorporated into our ministries yet. A hunger set in, but it was not to be satisfied for some time to come. We were to enter into them several months later, and it has been wonderful. Now, we are hungering for "more of the same."
In 1947 a man named William Branham stirred the U.S. with a ministry such as we had not seen. We attended his meetings in Boise, and saw miracles of many sorts take place before our wondering eyes. God had our attention, and we knew He had greater things for us than we were experiencing in our own lives.
His ministry proved to be the first of a great number which were to spring up. Each one was different, yet they all bore witness to the Glory of God. Some of them hit the rocks quite soon after being launched. Others went on, and built kingdoms, for God, or otherwise. No one could deny it-- God was moving in the hearts of men and women all over the country.
BEGINNINGS
Pearl and I are old enough now (May, 2006) that we are prone to look back to certain "beginnings" and historically follow them through to either their fulfillment or to their demise.
One such "beginning" was in February of 1942. We were serving as Pastors in the Tieton Pentecostal Church, and had Sis. Thompson, from Nampa, ID. in special meetings. She stayed in our home, and there was usually a morning prayer meeting. People got the Holy Ghost in those meetings.
One day Sis. Thompson ventured to mention to me that God had another "move" of His Spirit for the Church. It was "hidden" in the Scriptures, so that careless eyes would not find it.
When I exhibited an interest, she warily ventured further into what she was seeing in the Word.
She told us about the "Latter Rain" of Joel. She told us about the "Overcomers" of Revelation 2 and 3. She told us about the "Two Witnesses", again in Revelation. She mentioned the "Manchild" and the "Mother Church" of Rev. 12.
Then she "clinched" the whole thing with the "Little Sister" of Song of Solomon.
She readily admitted that she didn't have all the answers, but she felt she had caught a glimpse into the heart of God.
We were so young in age at that time. Louise was just learning to put sentences together, and Marvin was not even in the realm of thought. I had been rejected by the draft board because of poor hearing. The Church in Tieton needed a Pastor, so we agreed to serve, if the saints would help us by telling us if we started to do anything wrong. We still appreciate the help those older saints gave us. They prayed with us, three nights a week for ten weeks. The Church grew, in numbers and Spiritually. They counseled us, warned us, praised us-- the "whole nine yards."
We were hardly able to grasp what the elderly saint was trying to tell us. But seeds had been planted, and we know now that the ground was fertile and rich (Hungry and thirsty for the Truth of God's Word).
Through the years, the seeds began to germinate. Mostly, they did so one at a time.
As they began to grow, we did find that they would intertwine into one Truth. We were to learn later that this one Truth was not exactly what was being taught generally in the Churches.
It was in Cascade, ID. that the "Latter Rain" began to grip our souls. The war was just over, and things had started to get back to normal. But Latter Rain was still more theory than anything else at that time. It was a start.
Our ministry was more of the "flat chest" "little sister" type. We were still very immature in Spiritual things, but very eager to learn. I would pray and agonize over every sermon and Bible Study I was to give. They were "Word", but rather devoid of "Spirit."
One Sunday I ministered from Joel 2, and promised the folks that God would, indeed, pour out of His Spirit on the earth again, and it would be before the Rapture. Some eyebrows were raised at that point.
We knew about the gifts of the Spirit, but they had not been incorporated into our ministries yet. A hunger set in, but it was not to be satisfied for some time to come. We were to enter into them several months later, and it has been wonderful. Now, we are hungering for "more of the same."
In 1947 a man named William Branham stirred the U.S. with a ministry such as we had not seen. We attended his meetings in Boise, and saw miracles of many sorts take place before our wondering eyes. God had our attention, and we knew He had greater things for us than we were experiencing in our own lives.
His ministry proved to be the first of a great number which were to spring up. Each one was different, yet they all bore witness to the Glory of God. Some of them hit the rocks quite soon after being launched. Others went on, and built kingdoms, for God, or otherwise. No one could deny it-- God was moving in the hearts of men and women all over the country.
Pearl and I are old enough now (May, 2006) that we are prone to look back to certain "beginnings" and historically follow them through to either their fulfillment or to their demise.
One such "beginning" was in February of 1942. We were serving as Pastors in the Tieton Pentecostal Church, and had Sis. Thompson, from Nampa, ID. in special meetings. She stayed in our home, and there was usually a morning prayer meeting. People got the Holy Ghost in those meetings.
One day Sis. Thompson ventured to mention to me that God had another "move" of His Spirit for the Church. It was "hidden" in the Scriptures, so that careless eyes would not find it.
When I exhibited an interest, she warily ventured further into what she was seeing in the Word.
She told us about the "Latter Rain" of Joel. She told us about the "Overcomers" of Revelation 2 and 3. She told us about the "Two Witnesses", again in Revelation. She mentioned the "Manchild" and the "Mother Church" of Rev. 12.
Then she "clinched" the whole thing with the "Little Sister" of Song of Solomon.
She readily admitted that she didn't have all the answers, but she felt she had caught a glimpse into the heart of God.
We were so young in age at that time. Louise was just learning to put sentences together, and Marvin was not even in the realm of thought. I had been rejected by the draft board because of poor hearing. The Church in Tieton needed a Pastor, so we agreed to serve, if the saints would help us by telling us if we started to do anything wrong. We still appreciate the help those older saints gave us. They prayed with us, three nights a week for ten weeks. The Church grew, in numbers and Spiritually. They counseled us, warned us, praised us-- the "whole nine yards."
We were hardly able to grasp what the elderly saint was trying to tell us. But seeds had been planted, and we know now that the ground was fertile and rich (Hungry and thirsty for the Truth of God's Word).
Through the years, the seeds began to germinate. Mostly, they did so one at a time.
As they began to grow, we did find that they would intertwine into one Truth. We were to learn later that this one Truth was not exactly what was being taught generally in the Churches.
It was in Cascade, ID. that the "Latter Rain" began to grip our souls. The war was just over, and things had started to get back to normal. But Latter Rain was still more theory than anything else at that time. It was a start.
Our ministry was more of the "flat chest" "little sister" type. We were still very immature in Spiritual things, but very eager to learn. I would pray and agonize over every sermon and Bible Study I was to give. They were "Word", but rather devoid of "Spirit."
One Sunday I ministered from Joel 2, and promised the folks that God would, indeed, pour out of His Spirit on the earth again, and it would be before the Rapture. Some eyebrows were raised at that point.
We knew about the gifts of the Spirit, but they had not been incorporated into our ministries yet. A hunger set in, but it was not to be satisfied for some time to come. We were to enter into them several months later, and it has been wonderful. Now, we are hungering for "more of the same."
In 1947 a man named William Branham stirred the U.S. with a ministry such as we had not seen. We attended his meetings in Boise, and saw miracles of many sorts take place before our wondering eyes. God had our attention, and we knew He had greater things for us than we were experiencing in our own lives.
His ministry proved to be the first of a great number which were to spring up. Each one was different, yet they all bore witness to the Glory of God. Some of them hit the rocks quite soon after being launched. Others went on, and built kingdoms, for God, or otherwise. No one could deny it-- God was moving in the hearts of men and women all over the country.
BEGINNINGS
Pearl and I are old enough now (May, 2006) that we are prone to look back to certain "beginnings" and historically follow them through to either their fulfillment or to their demise.
One such "beginning" was in February of 1942. We were serving as Pastors in the Tieton Pentecostal Church, and had Sis. Thompson, from Nampa, ID. in special meetings. She stayed in our home, and there was usually a morning prayer meeting. People got the Holy Ghost in those meetings.
One day Sis. Thompson ventured to mention to me that God had another "move" of His Spirit for the Church. It was "hidden" in the Scriptures, so that careless eyes would not find it.
When I exhibited an interest, she warily ventured further into what she was seeing in the Word.
She told us about the "Latter Rain" of Joel. She told us about the "Overcomers" of Revelation 2 and 3. She told us about the "Two Witnesses", again in Revelation. She mentioned the "Manchild" and the "Mother Church" of Rev. 12.
Then she "clinched" the whole thing with the "Little Sister" of Song of Solomon.
She readily admitted that she didn't have all the answers, but she felt she had caught a glimpse into the heart of God.
We were so young in age at that time. Louise was just learning to put sentences together, and Marvin was not even in the realm of thought. I had been rejected by the draft board because of poor hearing. The Church in Tieton needed a Pastor, so we agreed to serve, if the saints would help us by telling us if we started to do anything wrong. We still appreciate the help those older saints gave us. They prayed with us, three nights a week for ten weeks. The Church grew, in numbers and Spiritually. They counseled us, warned us, praised us-- the "whole nine yards."
We were hardly able to grasp what the elderly saint was trying to tell us. But seeds had been planted, and we know now that the ground was fertile and rich (Hungry and thirsty for the Truth of God's Word).
Through the years, the seeds began to germinate. Mostly, they did so one at a time.
As they began to grow, we did find that they would intertwine into one Truth. We were to learn later that this one Truth was not exactly what was being taught generally in the Churches.
It was in Cascade, ID. that the "Latter Rain" began to grip our souls. The war was just over, and things had started to get back to normal. But Latter Rain was still more theory than anything else at that time. It was a start.
Our ministry was more of the "flat chest" "little sister" type. We were still very immature in Spiritual things, but very eager to learn. I would pray and agonize over every sermon and Bible Study I was to give. They were "Word", but rather devoid of "Spirit."
One Sunday I ministered from Joel 2, and promised the folks that God would, indeed, pour out of His Spirit on the earth again, and it would be before the Rapture. Some eyebrows were raised at that point.
We knew about the gifts of the Spirit, but they had not been incorporated into our ministries yet. A hunger set in, but it was not to be satisfied for some time to come. We were to enter into them several months later, and it has been wonderful. Now, we are hungering for "more of the same."
In 1947 a man named William Branham stirred the U.S. with a ministry such as we had not seen. We attended his meetings in Boise, and saw miracles of many sorts take place before our wondering eyes. God had our attention, and we knew He had greater things for us than we were experiencing in our own lives.
His ministry proved to be the first of a great number which were to spring up. Each one was different, yet they all bore witness to the Glory of God. Some of them hit the rocks quite soon after being launched. Others went on, and built kingdoms, for God, or otherwise. No one could deny it-- God was moving in the hearts of men and women all over the country.
ARRESTED
ARRESTED
A few days ago I began looking back over my life, wondering what, if anything, I would change if I could live my life over. I decided there is very little that I would want to change, if I could.
That is not to say that I am not aware of any mistakes that I have made, for there have been many of them. But I come under the category of a "good man", and Psalms 37:23 The steps of a [good] man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.
There are many things which I still do not understand, but I have not the slightest doubt that God has been responsible for both the things which seemed to be success as well as those which seemed to be defeat. Some of my thoughts were:
Pearl and I started our ministry together in The Dalles, OR. just after our twenty-second birthdays, which are in November. Shortly thereafter, we went for further training to the Big Downtown Mission Training Home in Oakland, CA. We were taught how to pray, study God's Word, and participate in Mission Services eight times a week. We each had received the Holy Ghost baptism. We knew about the Gifts of the Spirit, but they were not active in our lives, nor in the lives of most other ministers and lay members we knew. There was no one to emulate. We sort of "moved with the herd", as the saying goes.
After a few years of Pastoring, we came to a church where there was one woman who was exercised slightly in Tongues and Interpretation. At least, she seemed to know something about it. But, since most of the other ministers were taking a dim view of such things, we were not much impressed by what she was doing. But we were not opposed to it.
William Branham produced a drastic change in the Spiritual life of many Christian people in the last half of the 40's. God got our attention, to say the least.
The Fall of 1949, I attended a conference in New Westminster, BC. I was, by then, editing the official paper of the Northwest Disrict of the United Pentecostal Church, and serving as Pastor of a church in Yakima, WA.
How well I remember, I made a statement to the effect that a lot of what was going on at that time was, to me, quite spurious and irrelevant. One of the older ministers gently said, "Now, Pastor, let's not be too harsh in our judgment. It might be the real thing, and if it is, we don't want to miss it". I was cut to the quick, not by the man, because he had been ever so gentle. But the rebuke of the Spirit was so strong that I wept inwardly, and asked God to forgive me for having pre-judged what I had known so little about.
By mid-winter of 49-50 we were hearing reports of a mighty move of the Spirit which was sweeping the land. It was breaking down barriers which had stood for decades. It was causing churches to become polarized and to split wide open. We heard glowing reports, and disparaging reports, depending on which side they came from.
In late Winter (Feb 50) some of the men of the church went to Portland to a Wings of Healing convention to see for ourselves what was going on. Was it God, or was it not God? We saw both good and bad. Much of it was, indisputably, from God. I had not personally seen anything like it in my 31 years of life. I did not feel adequate to make a decision for the congregation we were shepherding, so I asked some of the men to come to Yakima and explain it to our people. They did. Ronald Sittser, Clifford Huit and Bob Barnett came in March.
The Yakima saints had been a very Spiritually minded people. They had been influenced by such men as Gaar (sp?) Price, Parret, and others who had been mightily used of God in early Pentecost. Mattie Crawford had been the instrument God had used to start the Oneness movement here in 1923.
They immediately recognized the authenticity of the outpouring, and were ready to receive it to the fullest extent. I have often thanked God for their perception and willingness to move in the things of the Spirit.
Revelling in the Spiritual atmosphere was marred shortly for me, for our official organ had a statement in it that summer that headquarters had rejected the (so called) Latter Rain movement. They were also outlawing the teaching of a modern day Israel apart from the Jews.
We took the matter to the saints, and their decision was that we should go on with God, and if it meant that we must withdraw from the National organization-- so be it.
I thought, "Hey! that's all right for you folks-- you don't have anything to lose. But what about me? At the rate I am climbing right now in the organization, I will be on the district board in less than five years. From there-- who knows? People appreciate me, and I have the natural ability to excel." But I didn't say anything to them.
Sadly, our organization was run more on natural ability than it was by the Spirit of God. That may still be the case.
It was in this way that the Lord formed a chain of circumstances around me and accompished to "arrest" me, and re-direct my life. I knew I dare not fail to walk in what I knew to be of God, and yet my brethren were precious to me. I did not want to give them up. At one point I remember walking across Summitview Ave. with the man I had assisted in his Pastorate earlier in my life. There were three of us, but I do not remember who the third man was. I asked them why we could not continue to have fellowship even though I had been forced out of the organization. God was the same, our belief in Oneness was the same. The only element that had changed was membership in the national group.
Fellowship on those terms was never extended.
My life, in the natural, was devastated. My goals, ambitions, hopes were in ruins at my feet.
But, (and oh, I love this) out of those ruins came a learning of the Spirit that was to supersede anything I had hoped for in my natural life. Pearl and I were to learn how to know, recognize, and respond to the Spirit of the Creator in ways which would be so much more satisfying than anything we had ever known before.
We were to learn about Spirit Control in our meetings, and to watch in awe as God performed His Work in the lives of those under our ministry. Changes which are wrought by the Spirit are pure and complete, whereas the best of human efforts are but to meet with failure and dismay.
The most important agenda, for us, was to endeavor to minister by His Spirit alone.
There have been other "arrestings" through the years, but each one has helped to direct us into the ministry of His choosing for our lives.
The Lord is so good!
ARRESTED
A few days ago I began looking back over my life, wondering what, if anything, I would change if I could live my life over. I decided there is very little that I would want to change, if I could.
That is not to say that I am not aware of any mistakes that I have made, for there have been many of them. But I come under the category of a "good man", and Psalms 37:23 The steps of a [good] man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.
There are many things which I still do not understand, but I have not the slightest doubt that God has been responsible for both the things which seemed to be success as well as those which seemed to be defeat. Some of my thoughts were:
Pearl and I started our ministry together in The Dalles, OR. just after our twenty-second birthdays, which are in November. Shortly thereafter, we went for further training to the Big Downtown Mission Training Home in Oakland, CA. We were taught how to pray, study God's Word, and participate in Mission Services eight times a week. We each had received the Holy Ghost baptism. We knew about the Gifts of the Spirit, but they were not active in our lives, nor in the lives of most other ministers and lay members we knew. There was no one to emulate. We sort of "moved with the herd", as the saying goes.
After a few years of Pastoring, we came to a church where there was one woman who was exercised slightly in Tongues and Interpretation. At least, she seemed to know something about it. But, since most of the other ministers were taking a dim view of such things, we were not much impressed by what she was doing. But we were not opposed to it.
William Branham produced a drastic change in the Spiritual life of many Christian people in the last half of the 40's. God got our attention, to say the least.
The Fall of 1949, I attended a conference in New Westminster, BC. I was, by then, editing the official paper of the Northwest Disrict of the United Pentecostal Church, and serving as Pastor of a church in Yakima, WA.
How well I remember, I made a statement to the effect that a lot of what was going on at that time was, to me, quite spurious and irrelevant. One of the older ministers gently said, "Now, Pastor, let's not be too harsh in our judgment. It might be the real thing, and if it is, we don't want to miss it". I was cut to the quick, not by the man, because he had been ever so gentle. But the rebuke of the Spirit was so strong that I wept inwardly, and asked God to forgive me for having pre-judged what I had known so little about.
By mid-winter of 49-50 we were hearing reports of a mighty move of the Spirit which was sweeping the land. It was breaking down barriers which had stood for decades. It was causing churches to become polarized and to split wide open. We heard glowing reports, and disparaging reports, depending on which side they came from.
In late Winter (Feb 50) some of the men of the church went to Portland to a Wings of Healing convention to see for ourselves what was going on. Was it God, or was it not God? We saw both good and bad. Much of it was, indisputably, from God. I had not personally seen anything like it in my 31 years of life. I did not feel adequate to make a decision for the congregation we were shepherding, so I asked some of the men to come to Yakima and explain it to our people. They did. Ronald Sittser, Clifford Huit and Bob Barnett came in March.
The Yakima saints had been a very Spiritually minded people. They had been influenced by such men as Gaar (sp?) Price, Parret, and others who had been mightily used of God in early Pentecost. Mattie Crawford had been the instrument God had used to start the Oneness movement here in 1923.
They immediately recognized the authenticity of the outpouring, and were ready to receive it to the fullest extent. I have often thanked God for their perception and willingness to move in the things of the Spirit.
Revelling in the Spiritual atmosphere was marred shortly for me, for our official organ had a statement in it that summer that headquarters had rejected the (so called) Latter Rain movement. They were also outlawing the teaching of a modern day Israel apart from the Jews.
We took the matter to the saints, and their decision was that we should go on with God, and if it meant that we must withdraw from the National organization-- so be it.
I thought, "Hey! that's all right for you folks-- you don't have anything to lose. But what about me? At the rate I am climbing right now in the organization, I will be on the district board in less than five years. From there-- who knows? People appreciate me, and I have the natural ability to excel." But I didn't say anything to them.
Sadly, our organization was run more on natural ability than it was by the Spirit of God. That may still be the case.
It was in this way that the Lord formed a chain of circumstances around me and accompished to "arrest" me, and re-direct my life. I knew I dare not fail to walk in what I knew to be of God, and yet my brethren were precious to me. I did not want to give them up. At one point I remember walking across Summitview Ave. with the man I had assisted in his Pastorate earlier in my life. There were three of us, but I do not remember who the third man was. I asked them why we could not continue to have fellowship even though I had been forced out of the organization. God was the same, our belief in Oneness was the same. The only element that had changed was membership in the national group.
Fellowship on those terms was never extended.
My life, in the natural, was devastated. My goals, ambitions, hopes were in ruins at my feet.
But, (and oh, I love this) out of those ruins came a learning of the Spirit that was to supersede anything I had hoped for in my natural life. Pearl and I were to learn how to know, recognize, and respond to the Spirit of the Creator in ways which would be so much more satisfying than anything we had ever known before.
We were to learn about Spirit Control in our meetings, and to watch in awe as God performed His Work in the lives of those under our ministry. Changes which are wrought by the Spirit are pure and complete, whereas the best of human efforts are but to meet with failure and dismay.
The most important agenda, for us, was to endeavor to minister by His Spirit alone.
There have been other "arrestings" through the years, but each one has helped to direct us into the ministry of His choosing for our lives.
The Lord is so good!
A few days ago I began looking back over my life, wondering what, if anything, I would change if I could live my life over. I decided there is very little that I would want to change, if I could.
That is not to say that I am not aware of any mistakes that I have made, for there have been many of them. But I come under the category of a "good man", and Psalms 37:23 The steps of a [good] man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.
There are many things which I still do not understand, but I have not the slightest doubt that God has been responsible for both the things which seemed to be success as well as those which seemed to be defeat. Some of my thoughts were:
Pearl and I started our ministry together in The Dalles, OR. just after our twenty-second birthdays, which are in November. Shortly thereafter, we went for further training to the Big Downtown Mission Training Home in Oakland, CA. We were taught how to pray, study God's Word, and participate in Mission Services eight times a week. We each had received the Holy Ghost baptism. We knew about the Gifts of the Spirit, but they were not active in our lives, nor in the lives of most other ministers and lay members we knew. There was no one to emulate. We sort of "moved with the herd", as the saying goes.
After a few years of Pastoring, we came to a church where there was one woman who was exercised slightly in Tongues and Interpretation. At least, she seemed to know something about it. But, since most of the other ministers were taking a dim view of such things, we were not much impressed by what she was doing. But we were not opposed to it.
William Branham produced a drastic change in the Spiritual life of many Christian people in the last half of the 40's. God got our attention, to say the least.
The Fall of 1949, I attended a conference in New Westminster, BC. I was, by then, editing the official paper of the Northwest Disrict of the United Pentecostal Church, and serving as Pastor of a church in Yakima, WA.
How well I remember, I made a statement to the effect that a lot of what was going on at that time was, to me, quite spurious and irrelevant. One of the older ministers gently said, "Now, Pastor, let's not be too harsh in our judgment. It might be the real thing, and if it is, we don't want to miss it". I was cut to the quick, not by the man, because he had been ever so gentle. But the rebuke of the Spirit was so strong that I wept inwardly, and asked God to forgive me for having pre-judged what I had known so little about.
By mid-winter of 49-50 we were hearing reports of a mighty move of the Spirit which was sweeping the land. It was breaking down barriers which had stood for decades. It was causing churches to become polarized and to split wide open. We heard glowing reports, and disparaging reports, depending on which side they came from.
In late Winter (Feb 50) some of the men of the church went to Portland to a Wings of Healing convention to see for ourselves what was going on. Was it God, or was it not God? We saw both good and bad. Much of it was, indisputably, from God. I had not personally seen anything like it in my 31 years of life. I did not feel adequate to make a decision for the congregation we were shepherding, so I asked some of the men to come to Yakima and explain it to our people. They did. Ronald Sittser, Clifford Huit and Bob Barnett came in March.
The Yakima saints had been a very Spiritually minded people. They had been influenced by such men as Gaar (sp?) Price, Parret, and others who had been mightily used of God in early Pentecost. Mattie Crawford had been the instrument God had used to start the Oneness movement here in 1923.
They immediately recognized the authenticity of the outpouring, and were ready to receive it to the fullest extent. I have often thanked God for their perception and willingness to move in the things of the Spirit.
Revelling in the Spiritual atmosphere was marred shortly for me, for our official organ had a statement in it that summer that headquarters had rejected the (so called) Latter Rain movement. They were also outlawing the teaching of a modern day Israel apart from the Jews.
We took the matter to the saints, and their decision was that we should go on with God, and if it meant that we must withdraw from the National organization-- so be it.
I thought, "Hey! that's all right for you folks-- you don't have anything to lose. But what about me? At the rate I am climbing right now in the organization, I will be on the district board in less than five years. From there-- who knows? People appreciate me, and I have the natural ability to excel." But I didn't say anything to them.
Sadly, our organization was run more on natural ability than it was by the Spirit of God. That may still be the case.
It was in this way that the Lord formed a chain of circumstances around me and accompished to "arrest" me, and re-direct my life. I knew I dare not fail to walk in what I knew to be of God, and yet my brethren were precious to me. I did not want to give them up. At one point I remember walking across Summitview Ave. with the man I had assisted in his Pastorate earlier in my life. There were three of us, but I do not remember who the third man was. I asked them why we could not continue to have fellowship even though I had been forced out of the organization. God was the same, our belief in Oneness was the same. The only element that had changed was membership in the national group.
Fellowship on those terms was never extended.
My life, in the natural, was devastated. My goals, ambitions, hopes were in ruins at my feet.
But, (and oh, I love this) out of those ruins came a learning of the Spirit that was to supersede anything I had hoped for in my natural life. Pearl and I were to learn how to know, recognize, and respond to the Spirit of the Creator in ways which would be so much more satisfying than anything we had ever known before.
We were to learn about Spirit Control in our meetings, and to watch in awe as God performed His Work in the lives of those under our ministry. Changes which are wrought by the Spirit are pure and complete, whereas the best of human efforts are but to meet with failure and dismay.
The most important agenda, for us, was to endeavor to minister by His Spirit alone.
There have been other "arrestings" through the years, but each one has helped to direct us into the ministry of His choosing for our lives.
The Lord is so good!
ARRESTED
A few days ago I began looking back over my life, wondering what, if anything, I would change if I could live my life over. I decided there is very little that I would want to change, if I could.
That is not to say that I am not aware of any mistakes that I have made, for there have been many of them. But I come under the category of a "good man", and Psalms 37:23 The steps of a [good] man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.
There are many things which I still do not understand, but I have not the slightest doubt that God has been responsible for both the things which seemed to be success as well as those which seemed to be defeat. Some of my thoughts were:
Pearl and I started our ministry together in The Dalles, OR. just after our twenty-second birthdays, which are in November. Shortly thereafter, we went for further training to the Big Downtown Mission Training Home in Oakland, CA. We were taught how to pray, study God's Word, and participate in Mission Services eight times a week. We each had received the Holy Ghost baptism. We knew about the Gifts of the Spirit, but they were not active in our lives, nor in the lives of most other ministers and lay members we knew. There was no one to emulate. We sort of "moved with the herd", as the saying goes.
After a few years of Pastoring, we came to a church where there was one woman who was exercised slightly in Tongues and Interpretation. At least, she seemed to know something about it. But, since most of the other ministers were taking a dim view of such things, we were not much impressed by what she was doing. But we were not opposed to it.
William Branham produced a drastic change in the Spiritual life of many Christian people in the last half of the 40's. God got our attention, to say the least.
The Fall of 1949, I attended a conference in New Westminster, BC. I was, by then, editing the official paper of the Northwest Disrict of the United Pentecostal Church, and serving as Pastor of a church in Yakima, WA.
How well I remember, I made a statement to the effect that a lot of what was going on at that time was, to me, quite spurious and irrelevant. One of the older ministers gently said, "Now, Pastor, let's not be too harsh in our judgment. It might be the real thing, and if it is, we don't want to miss it". I was cut to the quick, not by the man, because he had been ever so gentle. But the rebuke of the Spirit was so strong that I wept inwardly, and asked God to forgive me for having pre-judged what I had known so little about.
By mid-winter of 49-50 we were hearing reports of a mighty move of the Spirit which was sweeping the land. It was breaking down barriers which had stood for decades. It was causing churches to become polarized and to split wide open. We heard glowing reports, and disparaging reports, depending on which side they came from.
In late Winter (Feb 50) some of the men of the church went to Portland to a Wings of Healing convention to see for ourselves what was going on. Was it God, or was it not God? We saw both good and bad. Much of it was, indisputably, from God. I had not personally seen anything like it in my 31 years of life. I did not feel adequate to make a decision for the congregation we were shepherding, so I asked some of the men to come to Yakima and explain it to our people. They did. Ronald Sittser, Clifford Huit and Bob Barnett came in March.
The Yakima saints had been a very Spiritually minded people. They had been influenced by such men as Gaar (sp?) Price, Parret, and others who had been mightily used of God in early Pentecost. Mattie Crawford had been the instrument God had used to start the Oneness movement here in 1923.
They immediately recognized the authenticity of the outpouring, and were ready to receive it to the fullest extent. I have often thanked God for their perception and willingness to move in the things of the Spirit.
Revelling in the Spiritual atmosphere was marred shortly for me, for our official organ had a statement in it that summer that headquarters had rejected the (so called) Latter Rain movement. They were also outlawing the teaching of a modern day Israel apart from the Jews.
We took the matter to the saints, and their decision was that we should go on with God, and if it meant that we must withdraw from the National organization-- so be it.
I thought, "Hey! that's all right for you folks-- you don't have anything to lose. But what about me? At the rate I am climbing right now in the organization, I will be on the district board in less than five years. From there-- who knows? People appreciate me, and I have the natural ability to excel." But I didn't say anything to them.
Sadly, our organization was run more on natural ability than it was by the Spirit of God. That may still be the case.
It was in this way that the Lord formed a chain of circumstances around me and accompished to "arrest" me, and re-direct my life. I knew I dare not fail to walk in what I knew to be of God, and yet my brethren were precious to me. I did not want to give them up. At one point I remember walking across Summitview Ave. with the man I had assisted in his Pastorate earlier in my life. There were three of us, but I do not remember who the third man was. I asked them why we could not continue to have fellowship even though I had been forced out of the organization. God was the same, our belief in Oneness was the same. The only element that had changed was membership in the national group.
Fellowship on those terms was never extended.
My life, in the natural, was devastated. My goals, ambitions, hopes were in ruins at my feet.
But, (and oh, I love this) out of those ruins came a learning of the Spirit that was to supersede anything I had hoped for in my natural life. Pearl and I were to learn how to know, recognize, and respond to the Spirit of the Creator in ways which would be so much more satisfying than anything we had ever known before.
We were to learn about Spirit Control in our meetings, and to watch in awe as God performed His Work in the lives of those under our ministry. Changes which are wrought by the Spirit are pure and complete, whereas the best of human efforts are but to meet with failure and dismay.
The most important agenda, for us, was to endeavor to minister by His Spirit alone.
There have been other "arrestings" through the years, but each one has helped to direct us into the ministry of His choosing for our lives.
The Lord is so good!
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