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Mark 10:26-27 And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved? (27) And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible. (KJV)
The disciples were astonished with this new doctrine our Lord was bringing forth to a fallen world. The things of God and His plan of salvation were being manifested through Jesus Christ; so what was previously hidden and unknown was now available to whosoever would call upon the name of the Lord. Things that were impossible and unachievable by man and his way of thinking are now a reality, and should become a way of life to the believer. What is your vision of salvation today? Is it a clear cut path that you are walking, or are you astonished and bewildered thinking it is impossible for someone like me, and thinking that God only uses special people with special gifts or what some think are super powers? The reality is, it’s the simplicity of the gospel of Christ that many miss and overlook. Because we consider ourselves simple at times we think we get overlooked by God as well, because surely He can find more qualified people than me to use. Remember, and don’t ever forget the message, with God all things are possible and nothing will seem impossible to those that believe. Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. (KJV) Are you a can do person? Do you have a can do attitude and an expectation of victory in your walk, or are you still coming up short of the goal, accepting whatever comes your way rather than letting the Lord have His way, and complete the mission? Do you see things that are impossible to others, and were to you before you were saved, now a reality and a way of life; an expectation that the things of God and His promises are now what you rely on; and you will not accept anything less than His outcome despite what your outward senses try to dictate to you? Will you hold fast your profession of faith without wavering so that you can continue to be a can do person, because of a can do Christ within you? Luke 1:34-38 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? (35) And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. (36) And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. (37) For with God nothing shall be impossible. (38) And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her. (KJV) It is interesting when reading this account of how the angel of God came to Mary to let her know the Lord’s plan for her and how she would be used by Him. When Mary was informed of this plan, to her own carnal thinking and mind it was impossible. However, as we see in verse 38 her answer was, let it be according to the word of God, which was delivered to her through the angel. So how would this account relate to you personally? Were we not barren ourselves at one time spiritually and unable to bring forth life? Once we accepted the Lord and His plan of salvation we too conceived, and a new life was formed within us. ‘Christ in you the hope of glory’ is now residing within the believer as well, so that you too can operate in the power of the Highest, which is ready to spring forth from you to bring new life to a dying world. Even though Mary questioned and wondered how these things could take place, because according to the outward it was impossible, she accepted the word of the Lord and allowed Him to do what was seemingly impossible to man but just another day at the office for the Lord. So how are you responding to the Lord today? Are spending your time trying to analyze things by what the outward is trying to dictate, or are you accepting God to be true no matter what the circumstances are so that you can bring forth new life within you, and receive the results God intended for your situation also? Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (KJV) The only time it becomes mission impossible is when we step out of the realm of faith and start walking by sight, the outward and not the inward vision. Once a person steps out of the realm of faith they start questioning God and begin to waver. Many times in the Old Testament it makes reference to the double hearted which will result in one being double minded and unable to receive the things of God. Once you step back into the realm of doubt and fear the mission is aborted and unable to move forward until you re-enter the realm of faith and get back on God’s turf. You, like Mary, have the same choice. Will you take God at His word, or will you try to analyze things by what the carnal realm dictates and its limitations? Galatians 3:23-24 But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. (24) Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. (KJV) Our justification, our new life, is only revealed and brought forth by faith; our ability to hear the message delivered by Christ and then act on it, and follow through with it, until it accomplishes what is pleasing to God. Before faith became a reality to us we to were shut up and spiritually barren; unable to operate in the power of the Highest realm because we were trying to achieve salvation by old laws and rituals which are now done away in Christ. A new man within us requires a whole new way of thinking and acting. So the less you try to analyze things and figure them out according to your own understanding, the more you will be able to operate in the realm of a higher one. Galatians 4:19-21 My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you, (20) I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice; for I stand in doubt of you. (21) Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law? (KJV) I have heard it said that child bearing is one of the most painful things to endure, and yet one of the most rewarding afterwards. The same holds true in the spiritual realm as well. Sometimes there is pain and travail within us, a tug of war at times, a new life ready to spring forth, but it is being held back by the flesh not willing to let go. The longer one is in labor the more painful and harder it is to endure until they are able to deliver and bring forth a new life. The same holds true with us. The more we hang onto the old things and the old thinking the more painful it becomes; and the more we hang onto these things the more likely we are to have a miscarriage and miss out on the blessing that was intended for our benefit. You have a seed within you, Christ, which needs to be fed and nurtured if you wish to bring forth a new life within you, and watch it grow to maturity. It pained Paul because he watched a new life begin in the people only to see it aborted by them turning back to the old law. They begin in the Spirit and then try to perfect their walk by the flesh; which the Bible says ‘they that are in the flesh cannot please God’. So which realm will you operate in today? And how do you plan on doing those things that are pleasing to God? If it is by your own thinking and the works of the law then it will be mission impossible. But if it is by faith then it will be mission possible; a victorious outcome to all those that believe. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 2:9-12 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. (10) But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. (11) For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. (12) Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. (KJV)
With everything that we have access to, the opportunity to tap into an unlimited source of power and strength, a vast treasure chest of wisdom and knowledge, why would anyone settle for anything less? Mankind wallowed in sin and misery under the old law for thousands of years until the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon all flesh. The Spirit of God which is within the believer is willing to show you all things which are no longer limited to this realm. And now we are able to see and operate within the spiritual realm so that we can know the things of God. How much time do you spend on a daily basis seeking the things of God? How much of a priority have you made God in order to come to an understanding of how these things are put into practice, and are a reality in your life? Is the Bible an account of how God has worked in other people’s lives, people we thought at times were special and above reproach? Or are you able to read the accounts in the word of God and relate to them because they are something you too have put into practice within your life? John 16:12-15 I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. (13) Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. (14) He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. (15) All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you. (KJV) Remember what it was like when you would hear people talk of the Bible? Or even having read some of it before you were saved and came to a knowledge of the truth? For me it was boring stories of a bunch of thou shalts and thus saith the Lord, which to me had no meaning and substance without having the Spirit of truth to enlighten. Once I accepted the Lord’s plan of salvation I was given a new heart and able to tap into the things of God which gave me an understanding of things above and beyond this realm. I also began experiencing a joy and peace as well as a confidence I had not known before, above and beyond what I could have ever asked or thought of. But it takes time on a daily basis to stop what you are doing so that you can hear the Lord and His daily instructions; so that He can personally speak to you and give you His spiritual insight. The Holy Spirit is like having an interpreter when the Lord is speaking to you; He will take the things of God and explain it to you in a simple way so that you can understand for yourself what God is asking of you this day, and how to walk in the Spirit and do those things that are pleasing in His sight. Another way to put it, it’s like people that are deaf who attend lectures; there is a person speaking and someone next to them doing sign language to deliver the message. We were deaf to the things of God in the past because of sin and unbelief, but now we have the Holy Spirit within us to take the message of God and bring it to our understanding so that we can partake of the things of God. 1 John 2:26-27 These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you. (27) But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. (KJV) The devil and his workers are out and about with their seducing spirits and doctrines which will lead one astray if they do not become rooted and grounded in the truth of God’s word. The more you are able to hear the Lord for yourself and let Him reveal his plan of salvation to you personally, the stronger you become and the less likely you will be taken in by the wiles of the devil. The Lord does use His people to deliver His message, but beware it is the message we need to focus on and what the Lord is speaking in it, and to not become too caught up with the messengers, putting them on pedestals that they don’t belong on. It is the truth that sets you free. And the more you allow the Spirit to teach you this truth the more you will abide in Him and not be swayed with any winds of doctrine. Acts 10:38-39 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. (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: (KJV) That same anointing which God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with is within you; ready, willing and able to teach you the things of God so that you too can go about doing good and bring a message of healing to a sick and dying world. God is with you; for greater is He that is within you, than he that is in the world. So the more you rely on your inward vision, the less likely you will be swayed by outward circumstances. Verse 39 talks about those that were witnesses of how He was able to do all things, not just things of this realm but able to demonstrate the things of the spiritual realm as well. Now you need to take the time to hear His message of deliverance so that you too can demonstrate how you are allowing God to work through you, and not be oppressed of the devil and his lies. 1 John 2:20-21 But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things. (21) I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth. (KJV) What a comfort to be able to know the truth and have access to all things, not just the physical realm but the spiritual also. Think of the Holy Spirit as a water filter, it filters out the impurities and we are left with pure healthy water. For myself I was indoctrinated with a lot unhealthy worldly things which kept me in bondage to fear and confusion. The more I spent time in the word of God and let the Spirit of God show me the things of His realm, the more I was able to filter out the old and allow the new to become a reality in my life. Is the light of the glorious gospel of Christ illuminating your path today, or are you walking in darkness and not sure where you are headed? Colossians 2:8-10 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. (9) For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. (10) And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: (KJV) Do you desire the complete package? Then why not go to the guy that completed the mission of salvation for all mankind, who is now seated at the right hand of the Father ready to reveal Himself too all that wish to partake of His eternal inheritance. The word complete means to make whole, to furnish, to supply and finish. So if you desire to endure to the end then why not seek the counsel and instruction from someone who has already run this race to the end, and who is willing to show you all the things that it takes for you to complete your walk in the Spirit and receive the crown of life. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Galatians 1:3-4 Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ, (4) Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father: (KJV)
The word deliver in verse 4 means to rescue; and being that we live in a fallen world we are constantly surrounded by its influences and cheap imitations of what we think will bring peace and fulfillment to our lives. Where you look and what realm you look to, will be the determining factor of where you will spend your eternity. So will you continue looking to this world for the answer or will you seek those things which are above, to find an eternal one? It is the Lord’s will that none should perish but that all would come to repentance. So now the question is, are you willing to continue in this plan of salvation or have you been sidetracked with the cares of this life? What would you think if you saw one of your own children drowning and when you threw them the life preserver they ignored it and perished? Basically that is what mankind has done to their heavenly Father; they ignore His plan of salvation and His spiritual life preserver that was sent to us, and they end up over their head drowning in destruction and despair. So how are you doing today? Are you keeping the ship afloat and heading in the right direction, or have you gone off the deep end and going under? 1 Timothy 6:6-9 But godliness with contentment is great gain. (7) For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. (8) And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. (9) But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. (KJV) Have you forgotten how you arrived in this realm, wearing nothing but a smile? All those things you have been fussing and fighting over, not a one of them are going with you when it is time to depart this realm either. Have you learned to be content with the fact that today you have food and raiment? If not, just try going a day without them and see how overlooked and taken for granted some of these simple things we have are discounted as nothing. The food and raiment is not just limited to the physical either; have you taken the time to seek your spiritual meat as well as being dressed in the full armor of God so that you can quench all the fiery darts the wicked one will fire your direction? Stop and ask yourself this honest question, are the things that I am so concerned with today, the priorities I have established in my life, really leading me to a closer relationship with my Heavenly Father? Or is it something in this realm that may actually be drawing me away from Him; something that I am getting so wrapped up in, and has nothing to do with my eternal life? Matthew 16:25-26 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. (26) For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? (KJV) You have been blessed with all spiritual blessings in the heavenly realm in Christ, and yet do you hang onto the things in this world thinking it will fulfill and bring peace and joy? Can you even imagine for a moment what it will be like to stand before our Father some day and see all that was available in His kingdom only to find out that you missed out on it because you decided to hang onto the things of this life? Can you name one thing that is really worth hanging onto in this world that would keep you from inheriting your eternal reward? It’s only those that are willing to let go of their own life and desires that will find a new life in Christ and be able to inherit His eternal reward; those that were willing to look above and beyond what this world would ever have to offer. So can you honestly say that the will of God, His desire for you and your desire to serve Him are one in the same? Or are you still hanging onto something in this world that is choking the life from you slowly but surely? Is it worth exchanging your soul, which translates to eternal separation from God? A question that is not only being asked today, but one that will be asked again someday when we stand before Him and give an account of how we walked in His plan of salvation; was it truly a walk, or just a lot of talk. Ephesians 3:19-21 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. (20) Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, (21) Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. (KJV) You wonder why your life seems stagnant and unfulfilled at times, it’s simple, you keep looking to stagnant and unfulfilling things to bring you joy. Right now, this moment, there is a God who is able to do above and beyond what you could have ever thought or imagined; but how would you ever know this or experience this unless your priority is with the spiritual things which are above and beyond anything you will experience in this realm. When you pray and seek God and His answer, are you truly expecting the best, are you experiencing the love of Christ which goes way beyond our knowledge and limited carnal thinking? Do you know God hears you, and do you expect nothing short of victory in your life? Or are you still settling for the leftovers of this world and whatever they are willing to hand out? God has never failed His people and never will. So why are so many still hesitant to seek His counsel and deliverance from this present evil world; hanging onto the anchor instead of the life preserver? Are you yoked together with Christ today, letting Him handle the burdens, or have you unhooked yourself having decided you can handle things by yourself, and then wonder why you are so worn out and frustrated? Isaiah 55:8-9 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. (9) For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. (KJV) Do you desire better results? Do you seek a more confident prayer life? Then start looking above and don’t limit yourself to this realm if you truly wish to have our Father’s results which are above and beyond anything we could ever ask for or think of. We as humans had been limited to this carnal realm, and could only operate according to what our outward vision and senses would dictate. But now in Christ we are able to see the things of God, and operate in a truly higher dimension; one that will bring joy, peace and an eternal victory to those of us that look to the Lord for His answer. Colossians 3:1-2 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. (2) Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. (KJV) In order to be risen with Christ it means you have let go of your life and its desires, and to have chosen a new life in Him. We are in this world, but we don’t have to be in agreement with it, or limit ourselves to what this world has to offer and its cheap imitations. Where your treasure is there will your heart be also. So if you wish to experience something that is out of this world, then start looking beyond this realm so that the Lord can open the windows of heaven and pour out for you a blessing above and beyond what you could have ever thought or asked for. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 John 4:1-5 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. (2) Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: (3) And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. (4) Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. (5) They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. (KJV)
The Lord and His people have been warning us to be on the lookout for not just a few but the many false prophets, who like wolves, prey on the wounded and the weak of the flock. Too many Christians have let their guard down; and like an unsuspecting boxer, end up getting sucker punched by someone they thought was legit. When you listen to these sermons today they focus on worldly areas that many people struggle in; and like with many infomercials you see on TV they promise quick fix solutions to people still in bondage to spiritual ailments; which if they addressed those first, then the troublesome areas in these people’s lives would be more easily overcome. Rather than focus on the spiritual (which is why it is the spirit of antichrist), the one thing that would set them free is ignored; they keep giving worldly solutions to solve a spiritual need and many then end up falling short and discouraged. If any man has not the spirit of Christ, a working knowledge of the Son of God, then He is none of His. Greater is He, Christ in you the hope of glory, than he the spirit of antichrist which is roaming this planet like a roaring lion seeking whom he can devour with the cares and distractions of this life. Case in point, at times I see the headline about ministers who complain about opening their books to congress to give an account of their spending habits. These ministers claim government intrusion, the same government they bowed down to in order to get their tax exempt status. If you don’t want them intruding into your business then get out of theirs and just pay your fair share of taxes; which according to God’s word is the obligation of the Church. Wake up people and quit letting the fox guard the henhouse. Matthew 4:8-10 Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; (9) And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. (10) Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. (KJV) Jesus Christ was faced with this spirit of antichrist which would have liked nothing better than to see Him change His message of salvation, soften His stance a bit, and maybe start compromising. Unlike many we see today that think they can mix and match like a buffet table, taking the things they desire and try to match them up with spiritual things, the Lord held His ground knowing that this life is temporary and that the message of salvation is eternal. The Lord knew He could not serve two masters because if He was double minded, like we see and hear in so many of mans’ sermons, then He would have become unstable and unable to receive the things of God. Are you holding fast your profession of faith this moment without wavering? Or have you been sucker punched by a worldly doctrine that you never saw coming because you weren’t watching and keeping your guard up? Ephesians 1:3-6 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: (4) According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: (5) Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, (6) To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. (KJV) With an unending priceless gift of spiritual blessings, have you even begun to explore all that is available to those in Christ? No wonder the devil comes a knocking. After all, he was at one time seated in the heavenly places but fell because of pride, and let go of his eternal reward. That spirit of antichrist would like nothing better than to keep you focused on the dead end things of this world so that you won’t look into the realm of the Spirit to see all that God has blessed you with. That joy and peace you have experienced is a result of an eternal plan of salvation God has for His people; and by His grace He has made it available for our benefit. So being that this plan originated in the heavenly realm and not this worldly one, then it would only be fitting to say that you can only continue in this new found joy and peace by looking to Christ and not this world. 1 Corinthians 7:32-35 But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: (33) But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife. (34) There is difference also between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please her husband. (35) And this I speak for your own profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is comely, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction. (KJV) Here is an area where many let their guard down and get sucker punched. Rather than continue seeking the spiritual blessings in Christ they think the only way they will be complete is to have that special someone in their life. Now granted, God ordained marriage and it is a blessing when it is done according to who He joins together and not what our lower nature becomes attached to. Ever hear the term high maintenance? Well if you marry someone for the wrong reason, and they are still quite attached to the things of this world and not the things of God, you will find it nothing short of a distraction and a hindrance to your walk. I have seen many people who rather than realize they are complete in Christ, they try to fulfill a spiritual need with a physical one and end up bruised and beaten. Any time you look to the world or worldly people to find the answer, you will find that it did not come from God. It may look good and sound good to the outward man but inwardly it is a total abomination, a heartache that could have been avoided. Remember the devil will show you just the highlights and not the consequences. So when the party is over there will be a huge tab to pick up. 1 John 2:15-17 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. (16) For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. (17) And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. (KJV) The world and its ways are passing away, and so are those that hang onto them. Only those that do the will of God and seek those things which are above will experience a life of joy and peace above and beyond what this world could ever offer. So what is your priority today at this moment? Are you seeking the spiritual blessings or are you still chasing your tail stuck in this dead end realm of misery and heartache? Jesus Christ came that you would have life and have it more abundantly in Him so that you could avoid a world of hurt, and not end up with some cheap imitation of the devil. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 2 Peter 1:10-13 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: (11) For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (12) Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth. (13) Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you in remembrance; (KJV)
The role of a teacher or preacher of the word of God is not only to answer their heavenly calling from above, but to also remind others how to make sure they are answering theirs as well; constantly being a reminder to others whether by example or words of encouragement. Your calling came from above; a spiritual calling that can only be answered by spiritual people who have ears to hear and their eyes of understanding enlightened to the truth. John 6:63-65 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. (64) But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. (65) And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. (KJV) As we talked about yesterday and alluded to, the fact that the more we keep ourselves out of the way with mans’ ideas, and seeking their approval, the more effective we are in answering our heavenly calling. God does not need our help or input. Rather the more we stay out of the way with our carnal thinking and reasoning the better off we are. Your calling and the gift of salvation came to us by our Father through the Son, and no man is able to operate in His realm or approach Him unless it is done according to His word. Mark 11:27-33 And they come again to Jerusalem: and as he was walking in the temple, there come to him the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders, (28) And say unto him, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority to do these things? (29) And Jesus answered and said unto them, I will also ask of you one question, and answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things. (30) The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or of men? answer me. (31) And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say, Why then did ye not believe him? (32) But if we shall say, Of men; they feared the people: for all men counted John, that he was a prophet indeed. (33) And they answered and said unto Jesus, We cannot tell. And Jesus answering saith unto them, Neither do I tell you by what authority I do these things. (KJV) Strong’s definition for authority: 1849 exousia (ex-oo-see'-ah); from 1832 (in the sense of ability); privilege, i.e. (subjectively) force, capacity, competency, freedom, or (objectively) mastery (concretely, magistrate, superhuman, potentate, token of control), delegated influence: KJV-- authority, jurisdiction, liberty, power, right, strength Do you know who your source is and who you are receiving your calling and instructions from today? Is your authority based on the truth of God’s word and the strength you have in Christ, or are you waiting for someone to hand you a piece of paper or some other document from man that says you are approved? The Lord knew His calling and who He was answering to because He wasn’t seeking their approval or honor, but rather seeking the only honor that can come from above. Even though some of the people that were challenging His authority knew the truth, rather than acknowledge it, they were more concerned with what the others around them were thinking. And because John nor our Lord were operating within the perimeters of what others perceived as being godly, it was all the more reason for God to use them to preach His word. The letter of the law kills; it chokes the new growth and doesn’t allow the Spirit to have its way. Do you desire freedom, power and liberty? Then you will only find it in the realm of the Spirit. The truth will set you free, not some man-made doctrine or titles of man which many think they need to be approved. Do you desire to receive your heavenly Father’s reward? Then get out into His field and don’t be standing around idle with idle people waiting for some man to tell you what to do. Titus 2:11-15 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, (12) Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; (13) Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; (14) Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. (15) These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee. (KJV) Can it get any simpler, Church? The truth be known, the simpler we keep it the better off we are. Don’t let anyone despise you and your authority in Christ because they think you haven’t lived up to manmade standards, or are not operating according to mans’ standard procedure. One knows their calling and the liberty in the fact that they answer their call according to what the word of God says and not what others try to dictate. So whatever your calling is, and wherever the Lord is leading you, don’t be distracted by those that think you need mans’ titles of approval before you can be an effective minister of Christ. John 4:35-36 Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest. (36) And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together. (KJV) Don’t be one of those that are standing around idle thinking somewhere down the road they will be more qualified to answer their calling. If the Lord has called you and asked you to go into His field, then let no man despise your calling, including yourself thinking you are not qualified. Most of what we see fashioned around us, and what man calls a church, is done according mans’ standards and not the Lord’s. So the less one gets caught up in these facades the better off they are, and the more effective they will be. You have a direct line of communication to our Father through His Son Jesus Christ; and the more you answer to Him the less concerned you will be about answering to anyone else. Our Lord is calling all Christians with a message of love and hope to all mankind. So keep the line open so that He doesn’t get a busy signal or a disconnected message. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matthew 23:1-5 Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples, (2) Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat: (3) All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not. (4) For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers. (5) But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments, (KJV)
What we see going on here in Matthew 23 is quite similar to what still takes place today. We have people that have exalted themselves to positions of authority within the Church, or what they envision a church to be. And we see those that are more concerned with outward appearances and pleasing people rather than building up the people; they are just building up their own egos. With many of these people they preach messages and tell people how they should be living a godly life of laying down their lives for the brethren; basically all the things they themselves are not willing to do. Although they are quiet adept at pointing out the faults and shortcomings of others, all the while at the same time they have a closet full of skeletons they think they are hiding. Matthew 23:6-12 And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues, (7) And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi. (8) But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren. (9) And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven. (10) Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. (11) But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. (12) And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted. (KJV) You don’t need a title or mans’ approval to share the gospel or live a godly life. You are the written epistle known and read of all men. So don’t wait around for some title of man before you get out into the field which the Lord said is already ripe for harvest. The church of God is not just limited to some building or some group of believers that are under the authority and rule of someone with mans’ title of ordination. After all who would have been more qualified for this title himself but our Lord and He didn’t take it, so why do others? Masters, Rabbi, all refer to honor, respect, or revered, which if it isn’t coming from our Lord then it’s a waste of time. In fact if you are seeking approval from man anyway, then you are already headed in the wrong direction. The Bible is very specific to point out that if they hated our Lord then they would hate those that imitate Him also. The Lord was trying to put a stop to this stuff long ago so that mankind wouldn’t be looking up to people and putting them on pedestals, but rather that those in position of authority would be more of a servant than expecting to be served. Respect, honor or approval is something that we should be seeking from our Father above, and not lowering ourselves to the standard of man. John 5:41-44 I receive not honour from men. (42) But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. (43) I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive. (44) How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only? (KJV) Many limit God and their calling because they don’t have a title to back them up. Then you have those that base their foundation on the fact that they have a title from man and therefore they must be legit. The Lord Himself knew His calling and didn’t wait around for mans’ approval to fulfill His calling. Thank God He didn’t, otherwise we would still be waiting for a savior to bring a plan of reconciliation to mankind. In fact He instructs us just the opposite; mans’ titles are subject to man’s rules which will limit you from doing what He is asking. Ephesians 4:11-12 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; (12) For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: (KJV) Those that are answering their heavenly call know their place in the body of Christ and will do all things decently and in order. They don’t need a t-shirt or a neon sign that says they are an apostle or prophet, but know their place and calling in the body and carry it out in humility, serving and building up the saints instead of trying to build themselves up. Remember people, a church is not a building, it is the people that are the Church; like the Lord Himself said, ‘where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them’. So quit looking to outward things or titles of man to seek your approval or win the congregation over, but teach sound doctrine that will edify them in Christ. 1 Timothy 3:1-5 This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. (2) A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; (3) Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; (4) One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (5) (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) (KJV) Here’s a test for you, how well do you run your own home? If your own home life is a mess what business do you have trying to tell others how to live? Bishops, elders, deacons are all chosen to help the congregation and to lead by example. To whom much is given, much is expected; and these are the people that have walked with the Lord and are living proof by example to the younger Christians on how to live and walk in the Spirit. So whatever your calling is, being that it is the Lord calling, feel free to answer it, and don’t wait around for mans’ approval or title, but rather get to work. Matthew 20:6-7 And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all the day idle? (7) They say unto him, Because no man hath hired us. He saith unto them, Go ye also into the vineyard; and whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive. (KJV) If you read this chapter it refers to the parable of the vineyard. The owner of the vineyard, our Lord, keeps finding people standing around idle because they are waiting for some man to tell them what to do. When our Lord returns again someday to check out His spiritual vineyard where will He find you? Are standing around idle waiting for mans’ approval or title before you go to work, or will you answer your heavenly calling and receive the reward of inheritance? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Timothy 1:8-10 But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; (9) Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, (10) For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine; (KJV)
The laws of our land are put in place to protect us and keep an order to our society. For every transgression there are consequences, and God has ordained our military, police and other law enforcement bureaus to maintain this order for all of our benefit. I am grateful for the jobs they do, and would much rather see dangerous criminals locked up instead of roaming loose and preying on our society. That is why, as Christians, we are the ones that should be setting the example by our deeds and not just cheap lip service. So rather than run and hide when it comes time to pay our fair share concerning taxes to keep these services going, the people of God especially should be the ones leading by example. After all I don’t see many ministers today who are not shy about putting their hand out and literally demanding it from their flocks with their guilt trips and pity party sermons about how much more they could do if they had more money. We should be living by a higher standard which includes ‘putting your money where your mouth is’. Mark 12:13-17 And they send unto him certain of the Pharisees and of the Herodians, to catch him in his words. (14) And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not? (15) Shall we give, or shall we not give? But he, knowing their hypocrisy, said unto them, Why tempt ye me? bring me a penny, that I may see it. (16) And they brought it. And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription? And they said unto him, Caesar's. (17) And Jesus answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. And they marvelled at him. (KJV) Back in the Lord’s brief period of time on this planet He also was approached by those that claimed they were believers who were looking for loopholes too. Being the fact that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever, would not the answer He gave to those back then still hold true today? The Lord was quite specific with His answer and didn’t stutter. So I ask ‘which part of paying taxes is being misunderstood by the so called believers today’? Having watched a documentary about a big corporation that goes into communities seeking to set up their franchise stores there, the first thing they do is hit the local governments up for tax breaks. These are multi-billion dollar organizations that rather than do their part and be an example to the community, they do whatever they can to milk it dry. Sounds like the same mindset that has crept into the so called churches of today; they look for loopholes in the system which the Lord pointed out in verse 15 above is hypocritical. Maybe what has happened is rather than follow the example of our Lord, they have gone out of His will; and rather than feed the flock of God with the truth they end up fleecing it with their hypocritical messages that end up making merchandise out of the flock rather than Christ like people. Personally, I don’t like paying taxes (although I do) especially when I see some of the waste and mismanagement that goes on with it. Although many people complain about our country and direction it is going it is the place the Lord has me at for this time; and quite frankly when I watch the news I see there are a lot worse places to be. Our system is not perfect and never will be because of the effect sin has on this fallen world. So until the Lord returns we all need to do what is required in His word and pay our fair share if we wish to keep the Lord as our source. Proverbs 11:1-4 A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight. (2) When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom. (3) The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them. (4) Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death. (KJV) If you worked all week and didn’t get what was agreed to, you would be all over the situation demanding a just balance. If your tax return came up short you would be after them to get it straight. So when did the people of God and those that claim to be followers of Christ become above the law with their tax loopholes and big corporation mentality? Christians are supposed to be the example; and if everyone followed the example of these so called ministries, then we would have no one paying their fair share for services rendered and we would have nothing but chaos and anarchy in this country. Since when did they become such cheapskates? Claiming they serve a God of abundance but act stupid when it comes time to distribute it; nonsense! Our military people should not have to come home to a more hostile environment than the one they just left; and rather than thanking them, many that claim to be of God, are actually just as guilty as many others for ignoring their needs. Acts 20:32-35 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. (33) I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel. (34) Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. (35) I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive. (KJV) This was Paul’s farewell address to the elders of Ephesus; letting them know the example he set and what it took to be blessed of God. As a Church and an example of the believers in Christ, is our mindset the same also, realizing it is more blessed to give than receive? If so, we need to lead by example. For all those that are truly serving our Lord in not only talk but walk, we will realize this and do what the word of God requires of us. 2 Corinthians 9:7-11 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. (8) And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (9) (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever. (10) Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) (11) Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God. (KJV) Although this is one of the most popular verses with many of the religious people of today who have their hand out to the congregation seeking their just do financial balance, God is also speaking to them about doing their just part and quit fussing and complaining about rendering to Caesar. Although it is important to support the fellowship God has put you in, and you are to be obedient to what the Lord is asking of you, make sure the next time you get hit up with money pitches and sermons that pertain to the importance of giving, that the people who are preaching it are doing what the word of God requires also; giving more than just cheap lip service. If they have sold out to tax loopholes and are not doing what the word of God requires of them, how many other areas have they compromised and sold out in? No man can serve two masters, you cannot serve God and mammon (money); that’s called double minded which is unstable and unable to receive anything or any support from the Lord. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 3:28-31 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. (29) Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also: (30) Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith. (31) Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law. (KJV)
We have been talking this week about the difference between the old law or covenant, and the new law of faith which is established by our belief in the work Jesus Christ accomplished for mankind to bring reconciliation to a fallen world. There is still a law in place that even though we are under the new law we still need to obey the laws of the land. Despite the fact that we live by faith, we need to stay obedient and diligent to laws here on earth, so that we don’t end up with total chaos and be distracted by it. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; (2) For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. (KJV) We are reminded to keep all those in a place of authority in our prayers daily so that we can serve our time here in a quiet and peaceable life. Not only do we pray for them, but it is up to us to be doers of the word of God also; living honestly and in a godly manner, being examples of the believers that in nothing the ministry would be blamed. So remember, just because everyone else is going over the speed limit doesn’t mean you are excluded from the laws of the land; and if you get caught it is not pleasing to our Father either. Romans 13:1-5 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. (2) Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. (3) For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: (4) For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. (5) Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. (KJV) These powers and ordinances that are being referred to in the above verses are things like police, fire departments and other services that help keep order. God has established these services to render assistance and to try to protect society from being overtaken by ungodly people; which would get to the point of riot and total chaos if we didn’t have these departments in place. So remember, if you break the laws of the land, even if you don’t get caught the first time, Father is watching; and so to keep your conscience clear you need to obey them even when the authorities aren’t watching. I know that laws have changed over the years and that they bend with society and tend to favor certain individuals more than others, but it is the only way to maintain some kind of order here and even though it is not a perfect system it is better than none at all. The fact that they are ordained of God for our benefit, it is important that we establish these laws and abide by them. Romans 13:6-8 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. (7) Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. (8) Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. (KJV) This is what I am going to call my sound off section, something that I see happening in the so called church that doesn’t line up with the word of God. The tribute mentioned in the verses above is referring to taxes. If we are receiving the above mentioned services, no matter who we are, or who we think we are, we are all required to pay for them. So how come we have religious organizations that have these tax free exemptions? If their building gets vandalized or it starts on fire, who are the ones they call for help? The Bible says the workman is worthy of his hire, and that we are not to withhold wages to them they are due; so the fact that these are ordinances of God, why are these religious organizations exempt? If what they are doing is truly the work of God, is He not capable of supporting it then? Or maybe it is just another loophole so that these wannabe preachers can pocket more of the loot. Was not the Lord Himself our example that we are to follow and if so, didn’t he pay taxes? Matthew 17:24-27 And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute? (25) He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers? (26) Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free. (27) Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee. (KJV) Here we see the Lord Himself didn’t argue or fuss about it, but knew who His source was and did what was required so not to offend. Let me ask this question; is there any group or organization that is more adamant on getting their fair share and supporting financially their ministers than the so called church we see today? It seems more and more the messages I hear coming from these groups focus more on the financial upkeep rather than the spiritual upkeep of the congregations. Truly where the treasure is, there will be the heart also. I see a total double standard; those that receive services that are ordained of God and require a financial upkeep are ignored by the people of God that should be living above the standard of man. The so called church and its preachers demand their fair share and in many cases well beyond that, and then neglect their duty to distribute what is fair for services rendered in their own communities, which is hypocritical. Proverbs 3:27 Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it. (KJV) Next time a preacher stands up and teaches on giving, on how important it is that you all do your part, ask him or her before you give to their organization, if they are doing their part and paying their taxes according to the word of God. Just because man says that it’s ok and finds a loophole in the system, doesn’t mean God says its right; in fact His word is quite clear where He stands. Jeremiah 22:13 Woe unto him that buildeth his house by unrighteousness, and his chambers by wrong; that useth his neighbour's service without wages, and giveth him not for his work; (KJV) Have you ever heard the phrase or muttered the words ‘where’s a cop when you need one’? Isn’t it nice to have someone to call when there is an emergency, that at times is life threatening? How about our war veterans that lay their lives down so that we can have the freedom to worship our Lord; are they not worthy of their hire? How many times have we seen in the news where they don’t get the medical services and such that is required for them because of a lack of funds; have they not earned this right? James 5:4 Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth. (KJV) Talk about frauds; you may have found loopholes in man’s systems, but it won’t get through Father’s system. And many of those that stand before Him and claim to be preachers and teachers of the word of God will find out that they sold their souls for cheap loopholes and didn’t practice what they preach. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Luke 20:38 For he is not a God of the dead, but of the living: for all live unto him. (KJV)
When a person is born again or born a new into the realm of the Spirit you realize that in order to maintain this life you need to hear how to continue in it so that you can grow strong in the Lord and maintain an intimate relationship with Him. Our Father is a God of the now and not the past. It is of utmost importance that one realizes that when you become a new creation in Christ old things are passed away, dead, and all things should now become new. You should now be viewing your life from a spiritual viewpoint, and able to rightly divide the difference between what is right and wrong, not according to mans’ standards, but God’s. You should now be experiencing a new life of peace and joy based on your inward vision, and not on what the outward would try to dictate. Hebrews 10:18-22 Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin. (19) Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, (20) By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; (21) And having an high priest over the house of God; (22) Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. (KJV) There is a new and living way to serve a living God, and it has been available for roughly the last 2000 years because of the offering of Jesus Christ. Instead of waiting for a priest to enter into the holy realm for us once a year according to the old law, we now have access anytime, at anyplace we choose to call upon the name of the Lord. With this opportunity afforded to us by a living mediator who is able to cleanse our hearts with pure living waters, why would anyone settle for less and keep operating in old dead rituals, carnal washings (water baptisms), which look good to the outward but do nothing for our inward? If you desire to serve the living God, His word says the just shall live by faith; and Church it is just that simple, because without faith it is impossible to please God. Jesus Christ is the only way, the only truth, and the only life that will lead you to your heavenly inheritance. Hebrews 8:10-13 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people: (11) And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest. (12) For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more. (13) In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away. (KJV) Why do God’s people, or those that claim to be serving Him, still hang onto old laws and rituals that are dead and decaying? If you had an old car that was falling apart and not worth fixing again, you wouldn’t waste your time and money with it. If you had access to a brand new vehicle free of charge, would you not take the deal in a heartbeat? So why do so many people go around with a bunch of broken down rusted out jalopies rather than jump into a brand new vehicle every day and take a ride that leads us to our Father? Matthew 9:16-17 No man putteth a piece of new cloth unto an old garment, for that which is put in to fill it up taketh from the garment, and the rent is made worse. (17) Neither do men put new wine into old bottles: else the bottles break, and the wine runneth out, and the bottles perish: but they put new wine into new bottles, and both are preserved. (KJV) You ever hear the term ‘trying to drive a square peg into a round hole’? It doesn’t fit, nor was it meant to fit. And the more you try the more you will end up throwing a fit and be discouraged. The same holds true with God; when you try to put the new back into the old it doesn’t work. In fact as verse 16 says it actually ends up worse, to the point that it will end up perishing as verse 17 makes reference to. So remember Church, our God is a God of the living, not anything dead or perishing. The more one is surrounded by dead things the less attractive it is; in fact it becomes quite unhealthy if not buried. The same holds true in the spiritual realm; and the more one hangs onto dead things, eventually they end up dead too. 2 Corinthians 3:7-12 But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away: (8) How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious? (9) For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. (10) For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth. (11) For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious. (12) Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: (KJV) Having access to a law of faith that excels above and beyond the old law which is done away, why would someone keep going back to the graveyard to find something living? Using as simple and plainness of speech as possible, if you wish to remain in good standing with our Father, it can only be done by the new and living way, not in some has- been worn out dead, died and forgotten works of the law which will not bring new life. Williams reference for Romans 7:1-6 1. Do you not know, brothers -- for I speak to those who are acquainted with the law -- that the law can press its claim over a man only so long as he lives? 2. For a married woman is bound by law to her husband while he lives, but if her husband dies, she is freed from the marriage bond. 3. So if she marries another man while her husband is living, she is called an adulteress, but if he dies, she is free from that marriage bond, so that she will not be an adulteress though later married to another man. 4. So, my brothers, you too in the body of Christ have ended your relation to the law, so that you may be married to another husband, to Him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit for God. 5. For when we were living in accordance with our lower nature, the sinful passions that were aroused by the law were operating in the parts of our bodies to make us bear fruit that leads to death. 6. But now we have been freed from our relation to the law; we have ended our relation to that by which we once were held in bonds, so that we may serve in a new spiritual way and not in the old literalistic way. Romans 7:1-6 Know ye not, brethren, (for I speak to them that know the law,) how that the law hath dominion over a man as long as he liveth? (2) For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband. (3) So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man. (4) Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God. (5) For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. (6) But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter. (KJV) Under the old covenant the law was in play for that time, and so in order to have a relationship with God it was done according to the works of it. You need to realize that once this was done away, dead died and buried by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, you are now free to engage in a new life of liberty and freedom apart from the law so that you can now partake of living waters which will bring forth the fruit of the Spirit within you. Now being delivered from death, it is time to go to the well of life so that you can continue to be alive and well in the newness of the Spirit and not the oldness of the letter of the law which is a killer. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 7:9-10 For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. (10) And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death. (KJV)
Paul like many of the other disciples found a new life in Christ through belief in Him and the completed work He accomplished. But as we will see in his writings, and if you notice especially with the early Church, something had been choking the life back out of them; the freedom they found in a simple belief in Christ was getting complicated by the old law and rituals that many were still hanging onto at the time. 2 Corinthians 3:3-6 Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart. (4) And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: (5) Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; (6) Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. (KJV) We should no longer be relying in ourselves, in any works of the law, or in carnal ordinances that we think will draw us closer to God; rather our attention needs to be in the spiritual realm if we want to experience this new life in Christ. God is a Spirit; so now the only way to worship Him, is in this realm of spirit and truth; only the Spirit which gave you life and brought you back from the dead is able to sustain this life, and bring you to a mature perfect understanding of God through Christ. Your ability to be an effective minister can only be accomplished by teaching others to walk in the Spirit and not the flesh. Galatians 4:9-11 But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? (10) Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years. (11) I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain. (KJV) Once you have been set free and delivered from the bondage of death, it is vital that in order to maintain a quality life in Christ it can only be done in the Spirit, and not by turning back and trying to rebuild a foundation off dead vain works. Having watched the world spend the last few months caught up in worldly holidays where people claim certain days are holy or special to the Lord, we can see that there is nothing new under the sun; same devil and his cheap distractions, just different disguises over the years. If you try to return to these weak and beggarly things you will find yourself becoming weak also. Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, (23) Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. (KJV) You have been set free and are now partakers of the divine nature in Christ. Having spent many years in the past partaking of the forbidden fruit of this world, once you are able to experience this new life in Christ, and the abundance of love, joy, as well as the peace of God that goes beyond our understanding, don’t let it be stolen from you again by falling from grace into a bunch of dead end vain doctrines and works of man. There is no law, no boundaries anymore to those in Christ. What once kept us bound and limited in the realm of the flesh is done away, and now we have access into this unlimited realm of peace and joy, which is unattainable by the works of the law. So stay away from these dead end doctrines which claim that we still need to do rituals in order to maintain our walk with the Lord, or you will find this love you were once experiencing growing cold. Hebrews 9:8-12 The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing: (9) Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience; (10) Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation. (11) But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; (12) Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. (KJV) If you take the time to read the book of Hebrews you will see the writer gives us a good illustration of the difference between the old law and the new. What we see here in verses 8-12 is quite similar to what I still see going on today. Mankind keeps seeking perfection through the works of the law, continually doing things over and over again thinking it will draw them closer to God. As you notice in verse 10, these ordinances were in place until the time of reformation, which was accomplished for us when Christ Himself entered into the Holy place to deliver the sacrifice for mankind which was accepted by our Father. So no matter what disguise you put on these carnal ordinances and washings (water baptism being a prime example), as long as you keep turning back to these dead end works you will not be able to grow and mature in the Lord. Rather than being set free you bring yourself back into the bondage of the weak and beggarly elements again. So people, Church, either Jesus Christ did a complete job on our behalf or He didn’t. And every time you try to walk a spiritual path and incorporate the works of the law in it, you end up with a little spiritual leaven in the bread of life which is unacceptable to Father. Hebrews 10:1-2 For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect. (2) For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins. (KJV) When you walk with the Lord and continue in the liberty in Christ you find that there are no gray areas with Him, no shadows of darkness; your path and the light within you gets brighter and brighter, illuminating this path of life and any obstacles in its way. We see again that the true worshippers were once purged, cleansed from sin, because of their faith in Jesus Christ and what He accomplished on our behalf and not by some unfinished works that they think they still need to do. Romans 8:1-4 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (2) For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. (3) For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: (4) That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (KJV) You want freedom? Do you desire righteousness? Do you wish to continue to be justified in the sight of our Lord? Then you need to continue in the liberty in Christ and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage; and this will only be accomplished in the realm of the Spirit. Now that you have been set free, stay set free indeed. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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