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Hebrews 5:12-14 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. (13) For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. (14) But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. (KJV)
Thayer’s definition for principles: 4747 stoicheion- any first thing, from which the others belonging to some series or composite whole take their rise, an element, first principal Could you imagine going back to first grade and starting over again? How about if you were to read first grade books and think you would learn something new? How long does a child last on milk before they will no longer grow, but rather regress, as well as become weak and sickly? Spiritually this is what the writer is making reference to; those that continue in a first grade mindset when they actually should be teaching instead of having to be re-educated. Strong’s definition for babe: 3516 nepios (nay'-pee-os); from an obsolete particle ne- (implying negation) and 2031; not speaking, i.e. an infant (minor); figuratively, a simple-minded person, an immature Christian: KJV-- babe, child (+-ish). So how can one tell when a person or an organization is not progressing past the first grade? Here are some warnings that will raise some red flags. 1 Corinthians 3:1-5 And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. (2) I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. (3) For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? (4) For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal? (5) Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? (KJV) One of the first signs is when you see strife or contentions; those that hold others in high esteem sometimes to the point of letting them dictate their salvation, or what the leaders perceive as salvation. Some will hold to a denomination which is basically nothing more than putting God in a box, wrapping His gift in colorful packages which look good to the outward man but do nothing for the inward one. Then of course they put people on pedestals, similar to when I was young and told people that my dad could beat up their dad. Now the Lord does say in His word that we need to come to Him as a child in order to inherit His kingdom, but that doesn’t mean we act like children, rather learn to mature and grow up into Christ in all things who is the head of the Church, and our perfect example of how to operate in it. When you see people defending denominations or people rather than taking a stand for the doctrine of Christ and holding fast to that, these are basically people that have never gotten past a first grade level; and then to add insult to injury one engages in strife and contentions, silly arguments over things that have nothing to do with salvation. What should be a fellowship of believers who are mature in Christ resembles more the area where they let the children play during the services, silly petty bickering and nonsense. Colossians 2:6-8 As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: (7) Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. (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. (KJV) As you allow the Lord to manifest Himself to you, being open to the things of the Spirit, it is just as important to be like the Bereans, a group of people mentioned in the book of Acts chapter 17, who chose to check out the things they were hearing with what the word of God said, and not just take mans’ word for it. When I was in first grade I could be told many things that sounded interesting and would get my attention but had nothing to do with truth; like Easter bunnies and Santa Clauses. Although these things would excite me it was only as I grew older that I was able to see that it was nothing more than a cheap hoax. Today many man-made doctrines are doing the same thing and having the same effect; though they may excite the emotions and get the people stirred up, it does nothing for the spiritual growth and development of the believer. Is your salvation based and rooted in Christ, and the things of His realm, or are you still being swayed with things of this realm? Back a few of months ago many were moved to celebrate a tradition they call Christmas; which if you truly go back to its real origins you will find that it is nothing more than a man-made tradition, and not a Christ like one. The same holds true with the one that just occurred in March, in the form of Easter; though many swear up and down it is a special time of year, those that have matured in Christ will find that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever; and neither does He or His people find or observe one day to be more important than another. 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) You will find that the words element, rudiments and principles all have the same meaning. So what the Lord was saying to the people then, as well as to us now, is that when you are still holding to these traditions and doctrines of man you are basically being held back in the first grade and are no longer moving forward in your walk. How qualified would you be in today’s field of work if on your application you could only list a first grade education? The only way you will receive the things of God, which by the way is readily available to all that are willing to hear His word, is by spending time in His word on a daily basis. Do you take the things that you hear, and see if they line up with the word of God, or do you take the things of God and try to make them fit into the realm of man? In everything that you do, does it really have a scriptural basis and foundation, or have you done it because so many others do, and it is something you have done since you were a child? Do you truly wish to move on past the first grade rather than hold onto childish things? Then you will need to put them away, as well as anything or anyone else that would try to keep you in that realm. When you were a child, or in the first grade, you spoke like one and thought like one and acted like one. In order to mature in Christ you will need to put aside these childish things. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 14:1-4 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy. (2) For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries. (3) But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. (4) He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church. (KJV)
Paul ended chapter 13 by talking about childish things, and then begins chapter 14 here teaching about love and how to operate in the love of God. Again verse 1 uses the term gifts, which is an added word not in the original text. Everything we have been talking about this week points back to the gift of Christ, and how we as believers can allow His Spirit to manifest through us for our profit. One of the childish things Paul saw happening in the Church was the speaking in tongues and the improper use of it. While many were just rattling off in tongues to the congregation, as I still see going on today, few knew the importance of prophesying; which simply means to speak under the inspiration of the Spirit. Basically what was being asked is, what is going to be the most edifying to the body, speaking words of life that will build up or speaking something that is not understood and of no avail. 1 Corinthians 14:5-6 I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying. (6) Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine? (KJV) It’s not that Paul was forbidding the manifestation of tongues in the Church, it was that he was trying to instruct them on how it was to be done decently and in order; something that would be from the motive of love to build up the Church and not to confuse it. So unless there is an understanding to what is being spoken then there should be nothing said. Romans 8:26-27 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. (27) And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. (KJV) The Spirit will pray through you with groanings or utterances, which without an understanding should not be uttered. Though these may be in the form of a tongue or an unknown language to the believer, it is the Spirit within you praying to the Father on behalf of all His people. So unless you’re sure what is being spoken, Paul is saying, it is best to keep it to yourself. Ephesians 6:18-20 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; (19) And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, (20) For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. (KJV) Again, Paul wasn’t forbidding the use of tongues, but rather was teaching them how to effectively operate with a new tongue which is a result of the new heart. Paul knew how to pray and communicate with God, as well as allowing God to communicate His message of salvation back through Him to reveal the mystery of the gospel. His desire was one of love, one to speak boldly, so that it would point the people to God and build them up, giving them an understanding into the mystery of Christ. 1 Corinthians 14:7-12 And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped? (8) For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? (9) So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air. (10) There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification. (11) Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me. (12) Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church. (KJV) Thayer’s definition for barbarian: 915 barbaros- 1) one whose speech is rude, rough and harsh 2) one who speaks a foreign or strange language which is not understood by another. Again, what is your motive when you come together? If you are trying to impress others then you will be like a barbarian to others, or like someone from a foreign country who is trying to communicate a message that is not discernable. Like verse 12 alludes to, desire Spiritual; something that will build up the Church and not self. 1 Corinthians 14:13-20 Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret. (14) For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful. (15) What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also. (16) Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest? (17) For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified. (18) I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all: (19) Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. (20) Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. (KJV) If you are unable to interpret a tongue, whether it is in the form of a doctrine or what someone considers knowledge or any other utterance, unless it is done with understanding then they should keep silent. In other words quit acting like a bunch of children with a new toy; if you don’t know how it works you will end up causing more harm than good. Like Paul said, he would rather speak five words that would build up and edify, than sounding off like some auctioneer that makes a lot of noise without any substance. Colossians 4:3-4 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: (4) That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. (KJV) The most important gift that we can covet and hold to is the gift of Christ, and all that we have access to through His name. For those that are going to mature in Christ and effectively allow the Spirit to manifest through them will be those who have learned how to speak and teach the mystery of Christ from the motive of love. Let’s put away childish things, and come to a loving and mature understanding of God and how He desires His people to operate and speak on His behalf. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (KJV)
God gave us the perfect gift in the form of His Son, Jesus Christ, so that we too could manifest God’s plan of salvation however or whatever way He sees fit. The question you have to answer for yourself is ‘will you find your place in the body of Christ and allow His spirit to work in you as well?’ 1 Corinthians 12:27-31 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. (28) And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. (29) Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? (30) Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? (31) But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way. (KJV) God has set and would like to set you in the body where He knows you are best suited, and where you would be able to be the most effective. While many think that they know how to be the most effective, it’s only those that allow God to work through them in the place He would have them to be who will be the ones He will work through, and manifest His Spirit through. Are all of us qualified to be in the position of an apostle or a prophet, if not then leave it alone. Are you developed enough in the calling or qualification of healing, or speaking in tongues and interpreting them as well, if not then don’t pretend you are just because someone else is. Like verse 31 says, covet the best gifts or qualifications that you are best suited for; because if you haven’t been called to a certain position, or you are trying to operate in a place that God hasn’t called you to or you are not developed in, you will be ineffective. I have been a truck driver and a transit operator for most of my working days which is a talent God gave me and blessed me with. But I can assure you that if I needed medical attention or knew someone else that did, I would gladly point them or myself to someone that was qualified and had an understanding concerning healing. You know what they say about those that are their own doctor; they end up with fools for patients. Have you ever watched medical shows on TV when they do an operation? You see that it takes someone who is trained and knows what they are doing so that they can provide the remedy. Just because you stayed at a Holiday Inn doesn’t make you qualified; the same holds true in the Spiritual realm. God does not want a novice any more than you would want a novice physician doing life and death surgery on you. 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. (2) And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. (3) And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. (KJV) Paul ended chapter 12 saying that he would show us a more excellent way, and here it is, what it comes down to is the motive of the heart. You may have a tremendous zeal for God, but if it is not being done in love then it is all for naught and will profit nothing. Love is laying down your life for the brethren; finding your place in the body and allowing God to work through you no matter where He has set you in the body, or how He chooses to work through you. You may have learned to speak and pray in a tongue of man, or that of an angel, or a spiritual nature, but if it is not done in love it is of no avail. So again, what is the motive of your heart, and how are you responding to the calling of God and the gift He has given? Are you a gift that is allowing the life of God to flow through you, or have you become a stumbling block to others, causing more confusion than peace? 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, (5) Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; (6) Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; (7) Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. (KJV) The manifestation of the Spirit is given for us to profit in, and nothing will demonstrate that better than the motive of love. Everything we see here in the above verses totally contradicts what we have learned from the past, like the term looking out for number one. Number one is now the members of the one body in Christ, something we should be more concerned with than our own desires. The Bible says that we should do unto others as we would like done unto us, even though the second part of that verse doesn’t always turn out that way. Even though we don’t always receive from others what we put forth, it doesn’t mean we should lower our standards and stoop to a different level. 1 Corinthians 13:8-11 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. (9) For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. (10) But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. (11) When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. (KJV) God so loved the world that He gave us His only begotten Son so that we could partake of His divine nature and learn how to reciprocate His charity, which is another word for love, back to Him as well as other members of the body. Love never fails; it is a sure fire way to allow the Spirit, the gift of Christ, to manifest and work through us. While many have tried to impress others with much speaking and head knowledge, and while others thought that by speaking in tongues they would really be impressive, in the end it will all just vanish away and the only thing left that will make any difference is those that chose to walk in love. How have you answered the call of God? Are you doing it with the motive of love not only on His behalf but for the members of the body of Christ as well, or are you motivated by trying to impress others, which has just been described as being of no profit? 1 Corinthians 13:12-13 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. (13) And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity. (KJV) Someday we will be able to see the totality of God’s plan of salvation without having to deal with our carnal understanding. So for now we will have to settle for a glimpse into the heavenly realm, building a foundation one day at a time. The best way to clear this up for today is with an understanding and a motive of love, a perfect mature love that casts out all fear. How are you handling the gift God gave? Are you able to see for yourself where you fit in the body and is your desire to edify others, or are motives childish and self serving? It’s the best gift available to all mankind, the gift of God, which He would love for you to receive if you would love to have it. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 12:1-7 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. (2) Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led. (3) Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. (4) Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. (5) And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. (6) And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. (7) But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. (KJV)
First of all I would like to make note of the fact that the word ‘gifts’ in verse 1&4 are both added words, they were not a part of the original text. The reason this is mentioned is because the key to all these verses is that everything that takes place in this context is a manifestation of the Spirit, which is singular. While many think they have only a certain gift that God can work through them, the truth is that it is similar to our bodies, we all have the body parts to make our bodies function, and growing up it was just a matter of developing and learning how to use them, whether it be walking, talking, or any other function. It is up to us as individuals to find out what our calling is, where we fit in the body of Christ and allowing the Spirit of God to work and manifest through us as He chooses, and not as we think we should be dictating it. 1 Corinthians 12:8-11 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; (9) To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; (10) To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: (11) But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. (KJV) Now rather than limit the working of God through its members by thinking that to only one member is given wisdom, or to another any other endowment, which is what the word gifts refers to in Verse:9, Paul is showing how the Spirit can manifest through the members of the body to provide what is needed for each situation. Think of it this way, if you broke your arm and went to the hospital it would not do the attending physician much good to be working on your leg or checking your ears. So when there is a need in the body of Christ, and we are dealing with someone seeking a spiritual answer to their need, it is a matter of letting the Spirit have its way and manifest the answer that is needed for each and every individual situation we will encounter. While some may be more developed in certain areas of their walk, again like with children growing up, some learn to talk or walk quicker than others, all the workings of the Spirit are similar in the fact that once you received this Spirit within you, all the things in the above verses are available to those that are a willing vessel and allow God work through them. Although some think they can determine ahead of time how the Spirit is going to operate, say for instance those that claim they are going to have a special healing service, or if you show up on Sunday there will be miracles, the simple truth be known is that those that are truly operating in Christ will keep themselves out of the way and allow Him to have His way. 1 Corinthians 12:12-14 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. (13) For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. (14) For the body is not one member, but many. (KJV) Remember, we are now talking about a Spiritual body of believers; so in order to be a part of it one has to be baptized Spiritually, immersed in the living waters of Christ, to become a part of as well as remain an effective working member of it. It is important now for you to find your place in the body of Christ and to learn to function the way the Lord intended for you to, and not what you have seen others do. Romans 12:4-7 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: (5) So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. (6) Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; (7) Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; (KJV) Strong’s definition for gifts: 5486 charisma (khar'-is-mah); from 5483; a (divine) gratuity, i.e. deliverance (from danger or passion); (specifically) a (spiritual) endowment, i.e. (subjectively) religious qualification, or (objectively) miraculous faculty: KJV-- (free) gift. When we see the word ‘gifts’ it is referring to a free gift (Christ), God having sent His only Son on our behalf; as well as a qualification of where is the Lord asking us to operate in His body. So whatever your calling, whatever place the Lord is asking you to serve in, it’s learning who you are in Christ and how you can most effectively serve Him. So until you know and are not just guessing it is best for you to wait on Him until you are sure how He operates. Many people try to dictate to God how He is going to operate, and what their place in the body is rather than let Him have His way and allow His purpose to manifest through them. Ephesians 4:7-12 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. (8) Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. (9) (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? (10) He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.) (11) 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) Everything we talked about today is a result of the gift of Christ, the manifestation of His Spirit which is given for us to profit in. The gifts He gave unto men is manifested in the people mentioned in Verse 11, those that have answered their calling and are now working to edify the body of Christ, to teach them who they are in Christ. John 4:10-11 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. (11) The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water? (KJV) God’s gift to mankind is Christ, and those that have answered His call and are working on His behalf will know their place in the body, and will be ready to provide the Spiritual answer to all that would ask of the hope within them, as we see in the above verses. God gave us the good and perfect gift from above. Now will you take the time to read the instructions and learn how it operates for yourself? After all, you are now in a new realm. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Mark 16:16-17 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. (17) And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; (KJV)
Not only does the Bible tell us about believing and baptism (which by the way were not just talking about the water one, but is now making reference to a spiritual baptism), but it also clearly tells us that we will speak with a new tongue. What you need to realize is that once one is born again into the realm of the Spirit they are transformed, a change of heart if you would, into a new realm, the realm of the Spirit. So being that we are now considered a new creation, old things being passed away, we are now going to be speaking of the things in the new realm, things that pertain to the new creation in Christ. So again, the fact that the tongue is an extension of the heart it would only be fitting to say that you are now and should from this point forward be speaking the things of God, things that are spiritual and will bring life to ourselves and those around us. Acts 2:1-4 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. (2) And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. (3) And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. (4) And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. (KJV) Those who are being referred to in the above verses are the disciples of the Lord, who were instructed to wait in Jerusalem until they were endowed with the Holy Spirit. What we see first here is what was described in Matt 16:16, baptism, which is not referring anymore to the physical one of water but rather one of Spirit. Acts 1:4-5 And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. (5) For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. (KJV) What we see is an illustration of what the Lord said in the book of John also, that God is a Spirit, and those that were going to worship and reverence Him, which is a description of worship, must do so in spirit and in truth. So the only way that was going to be accomplished was by the pouring out of the Holy Spirit; which the disciples were baptized with spiritually in the day of Pentecost. So once they were filled with Holy Ghost they then began to speak with tongues, and were now able to give utterance as the Spirit led them. Acts 2:5-8 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. (6) Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. (7) And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? (8) And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? (KJV) Now rather than make a lot of noise and gibberish as we talked about yesterday, they let the Spirit give utterance in a way that got the message of God across, no matter what group of people were there or what their own native language was. They were able to do things decently and in order, which was building the others up around them rather than putting on a show. Can you imagine how much more effective God could work through you if you let His Spirit have its way, and spoke those things that He wanted spoken? Here is a perfect example of speaking with a new tongue; basically, anytime we speak the things of God are we not also speaking with a new tongue? Acts 2:9-12 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, (10) Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, (11) Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. (12) And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? (KJV) Suddenly a bunch of people that were what many considered unlearned and uneducated in the things of God were suddenly speaking about the wonderful works of God. Isn’t that what happened with you as well; suddenly something new happened in the heart and brought new life, and enlightened you to a new realm, something that you just couldn’t help but speak and share with others? So while many limit God and think the only way one is spiritual is if they can speak in a tongue or a language that is not discernable, the simple truth is anyone speaking the things of God in truth are now operating with a new tongue because of a new heart. John 4:25-29 The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. (26) Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he. (27) And upon this came his disciples, and marvelled that he talked with the woman: yet no man said, What seekest thou? or, Why talkest thou with her? (28) The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and saith to the men, (29) Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ? (KJV) If you go back and read the whole account you will see a perfect demonstration of our Lord speaking with a new tongue; because Jesus Christ of Nazareth was the first born of all mankind to set the example of how to operate in the newness of life, a life in the Spirit. How effective are your words today; are you speaking words of life and letting the living waters flow though you, or are you limiting God to your own ways and understanding? Ephesians 4:14-16 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; (15) But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: (16) From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. (KJV) From this point forward it’s a matter of learning how to speak the truth of God’s word with the pure motive of love so that the Church can grow up and mature in Christ. Not only have you learned how to edify yourself in the things of God, but you have learned how to speak with a new tongue the words of life which will build up and edify others; now you’re talking. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 13:1-2 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. (2) And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. (KJV)
Ever pick up an instrument when you were younger, or watch a child handle a new instrument, say a guitar or a set of drums? They will strum the guitar or beat away at the drums, which eventually gets to the point of irritation to the listener. The same holds true in the Church as well. There are people who think speaking in tongues makes them more spiritual or something, which is what Paul dealt with and spoke of in the above verses. Now to listen to someone who is trained and practiced with an instrument it can produce a sound that is familiar and easy to listen to, while the flip side can be something loud and boisterous, something or someone that gets old fast, and not pleasant to be around. If our motives for the things that we do are anything other than a pure motive of love, then we too will be nothing more than an instrument that is making sounds but nothing worth listening to. Love means that we are more interested in the edifying of someone else rather than trying to draw attention to ourselves and make ourselves seem so spiritual because we can speak in an unknown tongue. 1 Corinthians 14:7-11 And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped? (8) For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? (9) So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air. (10) There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification. (11) Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me. (KJV) Again we see that when one goes to attend a fellowship of believers, whether it is a Bible study or a church service, you are going there to get built up and edified, not to put on a show. If you want to make a lot of noise and act like a child rather than go to the church service, you would be just as well served to hang out in the day care center with the other younger noise makers, who at least have an excuse. So before you get all caught up in the commotion of trying to prove yourself some spiritual giant, it would do you well to be quick to hear and slow to speak, something that bodes well with any of our daily encounters. 1 Corinthians 14:23-25 If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad? (24) But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all: (25) And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth. (KJV) I am kind of jumping around here with the scriptures, but we will get back to the point on this subject. I can tell you for myself and from what others have shared with me over the years concerning an organization they were checking out, nothing turned them off quicker, and quenched the Spirit faster, than having a bunch of childish people rattling off in tongues; because the people doing it were not using wisdom, but rather putting on an outward show. Thayer’s definition for mad: 3105 mainomai- to rave as a maniac, to be mad, to rave; used of one who so speaks that he seems not to be in his right mind Is this really the first and possibly last impression one would want to make with someone seeking truth? This would be like going to a foreign film at a theatre and not having any captions to explain the dialogue. How about if you paid to go to a concert and the person that got up on the stage didn’t have a clue how to play an instrument, wouldn’t you be dissatisfied to say the least? So how do you think the so called Christians come off when they act like a bunch of lunatics in the name of Christianity, would it be something our Lord would approve of? If you are motivated by anything other than the love of God, it doesn’t make any difference how much faith you have, or how many scriptures you can rattle off, or how much you think you are accomplishing for the Lord, it’s all for naught unless it is brought forth in love. Greater love has no man than to lay down his/her life for the brethren, fellow believers, putting their needs before your own. 1 Corinthians 12:28-31 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. (29) Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? (30) Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? (31) But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way. (KJV) God has set an order in His church, which He describes as the body of Christ. If you are called to be a teacher, don’t try to be an apostle or prophet. Do you have an understanding as verse 30 refers to in the area of tongues or the interpretation of them, or are you just imitating someone else by thinking the more you can speak in tongues and the louder you are, the more others will think you are spiritual? The best gift we can covet and hold to is the gift of Christ, and everything in the above verses is a result of the manifestation of Him. So now it is a matter of learning how to operate effectively in the Spirit so that we can provide the need not only for ourselves, but be able to build up those that are seeking as well. Proverbs 15:2-4 The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness. (3) The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good. (4) A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit. (KJV) The tongue is an extension of the heart; so what is in the heart is what the mouth will speak. Before you act, before you speak something into existence, ask yourself, ‘is this something that is spiritual and will bring life to the hearers, or is it something that is confusing, and rather than lead someone closer to the Lord it will drive them away?’ So if something is not peaceable then it is not of God; and I can assure you that a lot of this mumbo jumbo stuff sounds more like a voodoo chant than something that is going to build up and edify someone. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 14:13-16 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way. (14) I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean. (15) But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died. (16) Let not then your good be evil spoken of: (KJV)
Strong’s definition for judge: 2919 krino (kree'-no); properly, to distinguish, i.e. decide (mentally or judicially); by implication, to try, condemn, punish: KJV-- avenge, conclude, condemn, damn, decree, determine, esteem, judge, go to (sue at the) law, ordain, call in question, sentence to, think. If you notice in verse 13 Paul is dealing with a brother, a fellow believer in Christ, one who has chosen the law of liberty rather than remaining under the condemnation of the devil. Paul uses the example of eating meat, which before under the old law had strict laws and provisions concerning its uses. Paul himself was well versed and understood the old law with the best of them, but had come to an understanding of the truth, that in Christ all meat was good, and nothing had to be refused anymore but was now sanctified and fit for use by prayer and thanksgiving; thanking our Father for providing healthy food for His temple. But you know, whether it is food or drink, or any other area that someone is dealing with, it is not for us to judge or condemn them just because they haven’t come to a working knowledge of the truth in certain areas of their walk. Remember how God dealt with you when you first came to Him, and how loving and longsuffering He was in teaching you to walk in the newness of His realm. So with this in mind, would it not be the same for us in how we deal with others; rather than being so high minded and judgmental the most important thing to watch out for would be that the devil doesn’t use one of his workers to trip them up with a false doctrine, a stumblingblock, or a detour to keep them from accessing God through the Son. Romans 14:17-19 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. (18) For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. (19) Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. (KJV) Instead of trying to get your point across and engaging in endless petty debates over foods and drinks, or anything else that is of the carnal realm, keep it in the Spirit, and concentrate on the things that make for peace, and that which will build someone up more than tearing them down or putting them down for where they are at in their walk. It is much more important that someone comes to a working knowledge of who they are in Christ, rather than spending more time on what they can eat, or any other thing that pertains more to the temporal than the eternal. That is where you learn and continue to keep your spiritual senses exercised so that you know what the real priority is and what is not worth striving about. Those that use wisdom in these areas will find themselves approved of God, and doing those things that are pleasing in His sight. Romans 14:20-23 For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence. (21) It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak. (22) Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth.(23) And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin. (KJV) Thayer’s definition for offence: 4348 proskomma- a stumblingblock a) an obstacle in the way which if one strikes his foot against he stumbles or falls b) that over which a soul stumbles, that is, by which is caused to sin Here is an interesting take on it; rather than watching out on their behalf and helping them to avoid stumbling by your actions and motives, taking offence to what they believe, you now became the stumbling block, or should I say block head. Rather than being the one that should be helping them in overcoming a situation you are actually setting them back again; and rather than giving them truth you are keeping them in bondage. That does not sound like something that a true servant of Christ is going to find acceptable let alone pleasing in God’s sight. Realize that when we wound someone’s weak conscience, or lack of knowledge in certain areas they haven’t been enlightened to, we are actually sinning against Christ Himself; ouch. You have faith in certain things and have been set free; great, then keep it between you and God; you don’t need to make a public proclamation or a spectacle out of yourself. Verse 21 makes reference to things that rather than building someone up it is actually making them weaker. Which again we see words like stumbling and offending, something we should be keeping out of their path and not putting into it. Basically what are your motives; are you doing your so called good deeds before men to be seen by them, or are you more concerned with pleasing God and doing that which is acceptable in His sight, which by the way is looking at the heart right now? Let me ask this, is everything you do on the up and up; are you able to do it faithfully, or is there some doubt in your walk as well, something you are not able to wholeheartedly justify before God? When you start entering these areas of doubt, whether it involves you alone or how you are handling situations involving others, are you able to do it faithfully? Because if not, it is now in the realm of sin and condemnation of the devil. Maybe that thing you see in someone else’s life, that shortcoming you perceive, is actually a reflection of your own fault and shortcomings; rather than removing the obstacle from your own path it is much easier to concentrate on someone else. Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (KJV) The carnal mind is enmity with God, and they that are in the flesh cannot please Him. When one withdraws themselves from the realm of the Spirit and back into the flesh they enter a realm of doubt and confusion, one that is not of God, a place of condemnation and a snare of the devil. So please Church, for your sake, don’t even go there. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:1-2 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. (KJV)
As of this point forward, right now, there is no condemnation to those in Christ Jesus; no more coming your way as well as no more going out from your camp either. No finger pointing, petty debates and striving over things that have absolutely nothing to do with salvation, but are mired in the silly things of this realm. So now that you are under a new law, a law of liberty of the Spirit, God did not appoint you to be a private investigator, an inspector clueless if you would, sticking your nose in places it doesn’t belong, and getting involved in things that are not of God, allowing the devil to deceive you back into the realm of this world. Proverbs 17:14 The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with. (KJV) Strong’s definition for strife: 4066 madown (maw-dohn'); from 1777; a contest or quarrel: KJV-- brawling, contention (-ous), discord, strife. Compare 4079, 4090. When and if you start to notice a leak, the beginning of strife, are you more apt to back out and leave it alone, or will you ignore the warning and allow it to fester? Some of these things you have decided to get involved with and all worked up over, was it really of God, or are you entering a realm and a battle that He won’t involve Himself in, and is not asking you to either? It’s like a dam, damned if you do but not damned if you don’t. So if you start to notice a small leak rather than waiting around it would serve your best interest to get out of there before the whole thing bursts and brings forth waves of damage and destruction. Proverbs 17:14 [The beginning of strife (is as) when one letteth out water]-- as when, in a dam or mound raised to oppose a flood or the sea, there is ever so small an aperture, the water passing through is sure to make it larger and larger, until with one mighty volume of water the whole embankment is swept away. [Therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with]-- leave off, instead of eagerly discussing most minute offences, and devising means of retaliation, with a pertinacious determination to conquer. `It is easier to abstain from a contest than to withdraw from it'. `The mother of mischief is no bigger than a midge's wing. ' Strife is compared to the two most merciless elements, fire and water. (from Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown Commentary) Proverbs 17:14 The figure is taken from the great tank or reservoir upon which Eastern cities often depended for their supply of water. The beginning of strife is compared to the first crack in the mound of such a reservoir. At first a few drops ooze out, but after a time the whole mass of waters pour themselves forth with fury, and it is hard to set limits to the destruction which they cause. [Before it be meddled with] literally, "before it rolls, or rushes forward." (from Barnes' Notes). Whether it’s striving with the world, or with our own brethren in Christ which is even worse, few things are more destructive and brings one back into a realm of condemnation of the devil quicker and faster than a wave of strife; which as we see in the above illustrations can start out so small and trivial but end up to be a large cesspool. So are you being quicker to hear and slower to speak, or are you trying to answer a matter before hearing it and then end up the fool? Proverbs 25:8-10 Go not forth hastily to strive, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof, when thy neighbour hath put thee to shame. (9) Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and discover not a secret to another: (10) Lest he that heareth it put thee to shame, and thine infamy turn not away. (KJV) Before you make some public proclamation about someone else maybe it would do you well to go to that person first, and see if this thing you are dealing with is more of a molehill than a mountain. Don’t flush your testimony down the drain by getting caught up in something that was not of God originally; the deeper you got into it the more you tried to justify yourself; rather than dealing in a more mature way you chose to proclaim someone guilty as charged, only to find out the true verdict in the end was not near the one you imagined in your head. God is able to declare the end from the beginning; When He asks you to do something then you should expect His result in the end, victory. However, when you decided to pick your own battles and got entangled with things of this life, then our Lord is no longer working with you; you are now on your own and basically defenseless and weak, ready for the wolf to prey on you and tear you to pieces. 1 Corinthians 6:6-8 But brother goeth to law with brother, and that before the unbelievers. (7) Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded? (8) Nay, ye do wrong, and defraud, and that your brethren. (KJV) You know it’s one thing when I watch a bunch of self righteous so called Christians argue, fuss, debate and even hold demonstrations against people of this world (which by the way people, last time I looked it said we wrestle not with flesh and blood), but quite another when it is among the brethren. If I recall the Lord Himself said that His kingdom was not of this world, which is why He Himself chose not to get entangled in the affairs of it, especially when they tried to make Him a king. Where one really gets on the devils turf and falls back into condemnation is when the believers fuss and fight over things that are petty and not worth getting worked up over. Rather than walk away and not engage in the first place, what began as a trickle has now turned into a mudslide, a wall of destruction that could have and should have been easily avoided by people that should have had their spiritual senses exercised enough to know the difference between good and evil. 2 Timothy 2:24-26 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, (25) In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; (26) And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. (KJV) It’s one thing if people are played like a yoyo by the devil, letting him pull their strings back into his realm, it’s another if you choose to attach yourself too and get trapped in this silliness as well. No one wins an argument people. The fact that you chose to engage in it in the first place made you a loser; it brought you back into the realm of condemnation of the devil; so now when he slings the mud your way it sticks. Quick to hear, slow to speak, and especially slow to wrath, because the wrath of man does not work in line with the righteousness of God. And rather than walking away and leaving it alone you chose to put yourself in a path of destruction. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1Timothy 3:5-7 (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) (6) Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. (7) Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. (KJV)
The above description is what is required of those that desire the office of a deacon in the Church, one who is an overseer of it. Those that are in Christ are those that have learned to walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit; simply put, they practice what they preach. As we see in verse 6, it is pride that came before the fall, someone that should have been operating in the liberty of Christ had fallen back into the realm of the flesh, and is now open season to the devil and his workers who are seeking to make the mud stick to any of God’s people. A novice is a new convert, someone who recently gave their life to the Lord, or someone who hasn’t practiced what they preach, one who is more apt to be in the process of learning than instructing. Remember how a child is described in 1Cor 13:11, one that speaks like a child thinks like a child and then understands what they had just spoken. Those that are in Christ and have matured in Him will be the ones that take the time to understand, and then think about what they are going to speak before they do speak it into existence; thus keeping themselves out of the condemnation zone and the realm of the devil. Sometimes people are elevated into the position of bishops and deacons based more on their carnal stature rather than the spiritual one; those that maybe are the sons of the pastor or those that have the means to give more of a financial support than a spiritual one. Whatever the case, God holds the overseers to a higher standard; one which requires them to continue walking in the Spirit, being an example of the believers in walk as well as in talk. 1 Timothy 3:8-11 Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; (9) Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. (10) And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless. (11) Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. (KJV) Doubletongued makes me think of the term ‘someone that talks out of both sides of their mouth’. ‘They smile in your face all the time they want to take your place, the backstabbers’; from an old song from the 70’s that seems quit fitting. Doesn’t it bother you to hear someone always talking negatively about others and then smiling to their face when they show up? Those that have matured in the Lord will be the ones that have learned how to tame the tongue and not let it be an unruly wildfire of slander and backbiting. If you notice in verse 11, that if the wife isn’t grave, or stable, but running around slandering; that doesn’t bode well for the husband either that is seeking to be a deacon of the Church. What it basically tells me is that if she is running a smear campaign on the brethren she obviously had that fire fueled at home, having gotten it from the husband as well. So guys if you or your wives are out there slandering others it won’t be long before you are going to take a tumble into the abyss, having fallen back into the condemnation of the devil that you were once delivered from. Proverbs 12:21-23 There shall no evil happen to the just: but the wicked shall be filled with mischief. (22) Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight. (23) A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness. (KJV) There is no condemnation to those in Christ; no evil shall happen to those that are justified in Him. A fool will proclaim their foolishness by spreading slander against the brethren, but the wise man will conceal it and pray one for another, not prey on each other. Galatians 6:1-3 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. (2) Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. (3) For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. (KJV) How would you like it if you had an issue that you were struggling with and rather than have it handled in the Spirit it would be brought before a congregation that was willing to stone first and take names later? Have you forgotten how you were saved and brought into the realm of God, how longsuffering and patient God is and has been with you? It’s those that are spiritual, those that are in Christ, who are the ones God is going to use to oversee His congregation; so that if someone has an issue it can be dealt with in love, and not broadcast on CNN, or a billboard. Are you more apt to pray and consider yourself and how God handled you with your shortcoming and faults, or are you standing and smoting your breast like the Pharisees, thanking God you’re not like those other sinners? When you think yourself to be something when according to your own works or righteousness you are in reality nothing, then you deceive yourself as well as others by spreading strife and contention, focusing more on the problems than the solution. Proverbs 26:20-22 Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth. (21) As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife. (22) The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly. (KJV) You know it’s one thing that the devil is the accuser of the brethren always looking for their shortcomings and faults so that he can point the finger at them, it’s another thing if you choose to be the vessel that he uses to be a launching pad for his fiery darts that are being pointed at God’s people. Kind of like a little tattle tale, a rat, ratting out the people just to make yourself look better; like climbing the corporate ladder no matter who you use or have to step over to get on top. 1 Corinthians 8:12 But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ. (KJV) Rather than being an asset to the body of Christ and lifting them up, you are now bringing them down and actually sinning against Christ Himself. When you do it unto them, no matter who they are, insomuch as it is done even to the least of our brethren, or those that we think are the least important in the body, Christ Himself takes it personal because we are doing it unto Him. Not a good place to be and not one that is going to gain eternal access into His kingdom. Proverbs 22:10-11 Cast out the scorner, and contention shall go out; yea, strife and reproach shall cease. (11) He that loveth pureness of heart, for the grace of his lips the king shall be his friend. (KJV) Instead of being the first one to cast a stone why don’t you cast down those imaginations and every high thing that comes against the knowledge of God? You want to end the fire danger? Then get rid of the arsonist no matter through whom or how it manifests. Grow up Church and don’t be a novice; rather than point the finger at others, start pointing them to Christ so that they will not fall back into the condemnation they were delivered from. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:1-2 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. (KJV)
Not only are those that are in Christ no longer under condemnation of sin and death, but they are not passing their own judgments on others and pointing fingers at what they perceive to be everyone else’s shortcomings. Remember, we are saved by grace through faith; and salvation is certainly not something you have or ever will achieve by works, so it eliminates any boasting on our part. Yet with this in mind, religious organizations and so called churches at times are no different than the world when it comes to backbiting and slandering; like a big henhouse full of loud boisterous cackling. Not only have you been set free and delivered from the bondage of sin and death, so have others despite how you may view their walk, or how you think they should be operating. Not only have many Christians decided to take on the role of judge, but they also have taken on the role of jury, and sad to say many times with their tongues executioners. Remember how you were delivered? Was it by self righteous overbearing examples of those that claim to know God, or was it by the mercy and love of God that drew you to Him? John 8:2-6 And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them. (3) And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst, (4) They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. (5) Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou? (6) This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. (KJV) Doesn’t this give us a good illustration of what we see going on in many religious groups today? Rather than get together to teach the word of God they are more concerned with what others are doing, and letting someone’s shortcomings and faults be broadcast amongst the whole congregation. So when these accusations are brought forth how do you handle these petty strife’s and the talebearer’s that are more concerned with hearing gossip than truth? Will you follow the example our Lord set; rather than continue to engage in this nonsense He chose to ignore it as though he heard them not and heard His Father’s response. While our fleshy nature is more apt to want to hear the juicy details, the Spirit is saying enough, this is not an area God is operating in. John 8:7-11 So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. (8) And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground. (9) And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. (10) When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? (11) She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more. (KJV) How are you handling these situations you encounter on a daily basis, whether it is at work or wherever you fellowship at; are you going to listen to gossip and half truths or are you more interested in listening to and dealing with truth? Are you passing judgment on others before you hear God’s answer, like the above example ready to rock someone’s world based on second hand information. Not only is the Lord no longer condemning you, but He is asking us not to pass judgment on others so quickly, and to be much quicker to hear, and slower to speak as well as to wrath. Proverbs 18:12-13 Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility. (13) He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him. (KJV) When confronted with gossip and accusations of the brethren how are you handling it today? Are you ready, shoot, then aim or are you going to not get caught up in slandering and backbiting, things that tear down rather than build up? If you are not able to say something to someone’s face first then what makes you think you have the right to speak it out to everyone else’s. Stay out of the mud people, once you have been washed with the pure living waters don’t go running back to a pigpen of gossip and slandering. Proverbs 17:9 He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends. (KJV) Just because someone comes running up to you with an account of someone’s faults or shortcomings, or did you hear about so and so and their adulterous affair, doesn’t mean you need to keep the chain of communication going; rather wouldn’t this be a good place to put it to rest just as our Lord did? Yes it may be enticing to the flesh to get the details, but if one is operating and seeking a loving way to handle it then it will cease and desist with them. Proverbs 29:9-11 If a wise man contendeth with a foolish man, whether he rage or laugh, there is no rest. (10) The bloodthirsty hate the upright: but the just seek his soul. (11) A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards. (KJV) When you engage in contention and strife there will be no rest in your soul. Have you ever spoken something about someone when they weren’t around, then when they were around you weren’t as bold in your accusation? Or maybe you heard something about that person, and rather than conceal the matter you chose to keep it alive and spread the gossip? A wise man will wait for an appropriate time, then if needed will deal with the person first and not make a public proclamation. Proverbs 11:12-13 He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace. (13) A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter. (KJV) When I hear a talebearer always talking about everyone else the first thing I begin to wonder is what secrets are they trying to conceal about themselves, and why are they so quick to throw stones at others? Luke 6:36-37 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. (37) Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: (KJV) If any man be in Christ he is a new creation, and will continue to operate in the newness of life and not let the old man resurface with silly accusations and petty strife’s. It’s a no condemnation zone for those in Christ, not only for you but for others as well. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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