Category: Answer

When Is an Answer, Not an Answer?

9/18/2024

Good day. Today we are posting the newsletter When Is an Answer, Not an Answer? written in 1999 by our dear brother, fellow steward and ambassador of the mystery of Christ, Larry Gazelka, Our prayer is that you will be blessed and encouraged by this newsletter. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writing for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1999.

When Is an Answer, Not an Answer?
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So many times in life we ask a question with preconceived thoughts and ideas of what we think the answer should be. When the answer does not fall within the parameters of what our predisposition was, we then disregard the response. We not only do this in every day life, but we many times do this also with God.

In all reality, we could phrase the title of this week's newsletter in several different ways. We could also title it; "When is a question, not a question?" Many times, we will ask a question with the only real purpose of being able to promote and address our own agenda. By doing this, we are trying to bait people into a confrontation, by asking questions that will bring about answers in which we will be able to support our views.

Luke 10:29 But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour? (KJV)

In this case of the lawyer, he was not really seeking answers, but was rather promoting self-justification. He (the lawyer) was going about to establish his own righteousness. This lawyer did not really want to change, as he was quite satisfied with the life that he had. The answer that Jesus Christ gave the lawyer, was not the answer that this lawyer wanted to hear. For the lawyer was in the same category as the priest and the Levite that had passed by the person wounded and dying in the ditch.

Many times in this life we will make attempts to justify ourselves before Father. Instead of heeding Father's counsel through, we will become like the lawyer, and try to justify our decision as well as our walk. Often times, when Father asks a question of us, we do not respond fully or truthfully. Rather, we become as the lawyer did in his conversation with the Lord.

We will always be able to find excuses when we do not want to hear that which Father is asking of us. We will always think within ourselves that we have found a legitimate reason for our decision. Why do we call Him Lord, Lord, and do not the things that He is asking of us?

Luke 9:57-58 And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. (KJV)

The people that watched the life of Jesus Christ of Nazareth observed a man that was able to perform miracle after miracle and feat after feat. Whether it was bringing about the healing of someone with the issue of blood, raising someone from the dead, to feeding thousands with a few loaves and fishes, they marveled at what He was able to do. So what we have to understand here, is that this certain man, when saying that he would follow Jesus Christ was not as difficult as it first appeared, since one would think to himself that anyone that followed Him would be given this power.

Yet the response of Jesus Christ in verse fifty-eight is not the answer this man expected to hear, nor wanted to hear. The answer that Jesus Christ gives here, is not the same as the answer that we hear from many preachers in the world today.

Jesus Christ plainly tells this man that the birds and foxes have places to make their homes and rest, yet the son of man has no place to lay His head. Is this the answer this man expected to have? Is this the answer we expect to hear? Do you think this man followed Jesus Christ after hearing this response? Will you follow Jesus Christ after this response?

Matthew 6:33-34 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. (KJV)

We are to seek first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, Christ. Yet many of the messages that are being taught within the Church today, have us seeking the wealth of the world, rather than the riches of God. If you had to live as Jesus Christ did, would you still follow Him? If you had to depend on your every need to come from Father, would you still follow Him? Not always the easiest thing, to walk by faith, and not by sight.

Luke 9:59-60 And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. (KJV)

And yet another was spoken to and asked if he would follow Jesus Christ. However, his reply was that he had personal matters, family matters to attend to first. Things more important to tend to, than what God was asking of him. How often are we too still responding in this manner. Many times we put life on this earth ahead of living forever with God. We tend to things that are dead, or will lead to death, before the very bread of life.

Many a time we will boastfully tell the Lord that we do want to serve Him, and that we will do all that He asks of us. Then, when we hear the Lord's response, it is not the answer that we wanted to hear. That is when an answer is not the answer, that answer we wanted to hear. Why is this? Could it be that we had already formulated in our mind the answer that we not only expected to hear, but wanted to hear? And when it is not the answer that we wanted to hear, will we still do that which we were asked? Do you think that this man followed the Lord, or went back and tended to the dead things that hindered his path?

Luke 9:61-62 And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God. (KJV)

And yet still another said, I will follow you Lord, but! How often is it that we do the same thing with Father? We set conditions that we have to have met first, before we will do that which He asks of us. We tell God what we think is necessary before we will do that which is being asked of us.

The majority of the time, we want to run back to the world and get their approval before we will do that which has been asked of us by God. This man wanted to run back to his family and friends and get their approval before following the Lord. How often does the world approve of anyone following Jesus Christ? What would be their response if this man was the one that provided for the household? What we also have to see and hear here, is that this man was allowing the tempter another opportunity to talk him out of that which had been asked of him by God.

Many are called, but few are chosen. And this is not because God loves certain people more than others, for we know that He is no respecter of persons. We have to keep fresh in our mind, that God so loved the world that He gave His only Son. The reason few are chosen is that few will respond to Father's call. Most respond with "yes Lord, I will follow you, BUT!" If we do not know who Jesus Christ is, why would we ever want to follow?

What has been your reply to God?

That you may know Him,
In the service of Jesus Christ
Larry Gazelka

Inner Circle

6/17/2023

Good day. Today's video Inner Circle is on the topic: The realm of the Spirit is within, the inner circle, where the eyes of your understanding is enlightened so that you can start seeing what is within you when you received the gift of Christ. Your answer is within you, so start looking in the right direction, get into the inner circle, and stay there. Behold the kingdom of God in within you!

You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry or by clicking on our archive page link above - Doctrine of Christ Ministry Archive.

Have a blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Not The Answer

10/8/2015

1 Corinthians 15:48-50 As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. (49) And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. (50) Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. (KJV)

Someday a total transformation will take place with all the believers that chose to hold God to be true and man the liar, including their own carnal thinking. By the way, you don’t have to wait until the day of judgment to bear the image of the heavenly which is Christ in you now, the one and only hope of glory. What we clearly see in the above verse is quite simple, two realms that differ as much as night and day. While mankind still holds to the flesh and blood realm which keeps them in darkness, those in Christ have found His enlightenment to be their source of a new life without fear or a shadow of doubt. Flesh and blood, and its way of thinking, cannot enter nor be an inheritor of the kingdom of God; neither is God going to allow something corruptible into His incorruptible realm as well. How you access God and His kingdom today will determine how well you know the Lord and how well known you are of Him.

Galatians 1:15-17 But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, (16) To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood: (17) Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus. (KJV)

Paul not only makes the distinction that his relationship with the Lord was not based on any man but also the fact that he went straight to the source. He is very emphatic to point out that he didn’t run to the apostles that were before him, who actually walked with the Lord while He was here on earth, but rather he was able to hear first hand for himself who the Lord is and how to access His kingdom. Today many people claim to have the answer which they base more on a large following or the approval of mankind rather than on a personal revelation of who Christ is and how important it is to teach His name. Are you one of those who are more apt to chase after mankind or something or someone you can see, or are you going to be still and hear the Lord for yourself, and know that He is Lord of your life?

Galatians 1:18-20 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. (19) But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord's brother. (20) Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not. (KJV)

I am certain that Paul was told by many that he should go find the apostles of the Lord so that he could learn from them; thus the reason why he was so emphatic to write that the things he was speaking were not a lie. In fact if you go read the account of what happens when Paul does meet up with Peter some 14 years later you see that there was a confrontation between the two of them, and the point Paul was making was in line with God. The point is that it took boldness and confidence to confront one of the Lord’s apostles and tell him he was out of line, and then to deliver the correction as well; a confidence and boldness that did not come from any flesh and blood man but rather first hand from a Spiritual source.

Matthew 16:15-17 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? (16) And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. (17) And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. (KJV)

Are you still looking in the flesh and blood realm to find the answer that our Lord is asking all mankind; and has that answer been revealed to you personally? If you think someday you are going to gain access to a heavenly realm with a carnal answer you will find yourself on the outside looking in, eternally, knowing what was available and why you sold out. A spiritual kingdom has a spiritual access code or name, and only one name will get you into His realm today so that you can enter the eternal joy of the Lord, and that He can say well done good and faithful servant. While I hear so many preach and teach in the name of Jesus, which by the way is a common name among mankind, I hear a very few that know the name of Christ and the power of it. Could it be that there are just so few that have given heed to this revelation and have allowed the spiritual to have more of an influence than the physical? Could this be the reason why there is so much opposition to this name, even to the point of why the enemy is referred to as a spirit of antichrist and not anti Jesus? You say the name of Jesus and you are referring to a man that walked this earth and to many a man that still go by this name, but you add the name of Christ to it and you have now accessed a totally new and different realm, one the enemy doesn’t desire to see you get into.

Philippians 2:8-11 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. (9) Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: (10) That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; (11) And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (KJV)

By the way that name which is above every name and the one every tongue should be confessing and needs too in order to access the kingdom of God is Jesus Christ. While many claim it is just Jesus, the only reason He was able to live a life without sin and present himself a living acceptable sacrifice was by the leading and guiding of the spirit of Christ within Him, which made it a complete package. Without Jesus of Nazareth having the Spirit of Christ within Him to allow Him to be the first born or born again into this realm, He would not have been able to make reconciliation for a fallen dead world. If you personally do not have the Spirit of Christ working in you as well as a working knowledge of who the Son of God is for yourself you are none of His, but rather walking blindly in a dark carnal realm with which it is impossible to please God in.

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)

The most important factor, the most important piece of a spiritual puzzle is Christ. Because once one is able to see who they are in Him then they are able to see the plan of salvation for themselves. A carnal flesh and blood man cannot relate to a spiritual being without the Spirit of Christ to bear witness and allow His spiritual light to shine in our hearts. Many people go to God through different names and paths that they think will enlighten them, but the word of God is quite clear to point out which name will get them into His kingdom and allow them to continue in it bringing forth the fruit of the Spirit to perfection, full maturity. Has God revealed Himself to you personally through His Son so that you can in turn access His kingdom and find out who you are in Christ? This is the one and only name that is above all others, and the only name that will make you complete in Him; while anything else will leave you stuck in the fallen realm of mankind and dead end rudiments and traditions.

Acts 4:10-12 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. (11) This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. (12) Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (KJV)

Mankind advertises many packages and things that they try to back up with guarantees, hoping this will entice others to buy into it. The word of God is quite clear on what name will get you access into His kingdom and allow you to continue in His spiritual realm rooted and grounded and not moved away. Jesus Christ is the complete package, the complete name that will make you whole; while anything less is based on a flesh and blood interpretation that is not exactly, and not what our Father acknowledges. Don’t be half right, let the truth and the whole truth set you free and keep you free indeed. God bless and His best to all this day.

Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Fit and Ready

8/20/2015

2 Timothy 2:19-21 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. (20) But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. (21) If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work. (KJV)

Thayer’s definition for meet:
5543 chrestos-
1) fit, fit for use, useful; virtuous, good
2) manageable
a) mild, pleasant (as opp. to harsh, hard sharp, bitter)

How fit and ready are you today to give God’s answer to all those you come in contact with today, whether in word or in deed? Maybe the reason you are not so ready and equipped for the Master’s use is because you have been hanging around with a bunch of vessels who claim they are of God, but in reality are useless dishonorable and unfit for use. Those that name the name of Christ and become joint participants of His kingdom will have their senses exercised to know the difference between what is of God and what isn’t; thus withdrawing themselves from any evil communications which would corrupt their good morals. The foundation of God stands sure, and so do those that are in agreement with His plan of salvation and the doctrine of Christ; while the other vessels are like wannabes and pretenders, those that don’t quite cut it and make the grade, disallowed of our Lord. If you are in a place the Lord doesn’t want you to be, or surrounded by those that are not healthy to you spiritually, then you need to purge yourself from these situations as well as any other unhealthy people that profess to know God, but in reality deny Him. Like the logo for the Marines, God is looking for those, even if it is just a few good men, to deliver His plan of salvation. And just like a soldier, someone who has training to carry out His plan, even if it means laying down their own lives for the benefit of others.

Proverbs 25:11-12 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver. (12) As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear. (KJV)

A word fitly spoken will be by those God says are fit and ready to deliver His words of life. Gold and silver are examples of vessels that are fit for use, honorable and sanctified for the Master; while those that are unapproved are cheap imitations and not of much use. Your time and preparation in hearing the Lord and how to deliver His message is of much use to the body of Christ. As precious as ornaments of gold are to the outward, it is precious to our Lord to have a wise man of His speak a message of reproof to someone that is willing and obedient to God’s calling. So today, are you that vessel, that go to guy, that is fit and ready for use, or do you need to be benched and sent back to the practice squad?

Proverbs 15:22-24 Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established. (23) A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it! (24) The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath. (KJV)

When I think of a word ‘in due season’, I think of a drink of cool water on a hot day, something very timely and fitting, delivered just at the right moment when I was getting weak and faint. Are you prepared with the living waters for a thirsty world around you, thirsting for truth in a fallen world of lies and deception? A true counselor will be prepared to give God’s answer whether in season or out of season, in other words anytime, anywhere; because now is the day of salvation and now is the accepted time for God’s people to be ready with His message of hope. What a relief it is to be able to hear the truth that sets one free from the doubt and confusion that was being hurled our way in the form of the fiery darts of the wicked one. Is your vessel one of living waters that is actively flowing forth from the heart watering a dry and thirsty world around you, or has your well run dry?

Isaiah 50:4-5 The Lord GOD hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary: he wakeneth morning by morning, he wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned. (5) The Lord GOD hath opened mine ear, and I was not rebellious, neither turned away back. (KJV)

The tongue of the learned will come from one that is prepared in the things of the Lord so that they can give His answer to speak a word in due season and bring relief to those that are wearied. Are your ears open to the truth, or are you looking to have them tickled instead? Do you seek first the kingdom of God, which is spiritual, so that you can be prepared not only for what you have need of but for those you may encounter this day? It takes practice and preparation daily, learning to hear the voice of the Lord and not that of the enemy. Knowing and not just guessing how to speak in a timely fashion, in due season, to those who are in need; presenting a clear written epistle for all to see. Neither turning away despite the reception; rather being steadfast and unmovable, delivering the message no matter what the conditions are. Just because you are not a crowd favorite with mankind doesn’t mean you are not pleasing to God.

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)

The Lord describes His people as a body of believers, those that have prepared themselves in the things of His spirit and have learned to speak the truth in love which causes the growth and maturity in Christ. Not only have they heard the truth, but they know enough of the truth for themselves so that they won’t be tossed around like children, but rather know how to edify themselves in the love of God. By your learning to speak the truth in love it will also cause others to grow and mature in Christ, bringing words of encouragement at a proper time, in due season as needed. Not only have you learned to grow and mature in Christ, but you are able to teach others to grow by your example, being diligent in your preparation to speak words of life.

John 6:63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. (KJV)

Williams New Testament translation for John 6:63
63. The Spirit is what gives life; the flesh does not help at all. The truths that I have told you are spirit and life.

As the heavens are higher than the earth, so is God’s ways much higher than ours. The Lord doesn’t need our help when speaking His word, and He doesn’t need mans’ help when it comes to delivering His message. In fact just the opposite is true; the more we can keep ourselves out of the way, the more fit and prepared we will be to speak His word. God’s word is living spiritual waters that bring life to those that partake and drink of it. Now the question is, ‘will you be one of His vessels fit and ready for use so that these waters can flow through you and towards His people?’

God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Knowing The Answer

8/19/2015

Proverbs 16:1-3 The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the LORD. (2) All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits. (3) Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. (KJV)

Are you absolutely positively sure the answer you are giving today, right now, is from the Lord? Have you committed yourself unto the Lord, and are you established upon the foundation of God this day, Jesus Christ being in control of everything in your walk including your tongue? The Lord has an answer for every man and He expects His people to be ready to give it anytime, and anywhere the opportunity presents itself. The question is are you prepared; have you done what is necessary today to give His response, an answer that has eternal consequences? Although mankind judges things according to the outward appearance, thus thinking He is clean, the Lord looks to the inward motives of the heart and that is what He wishes to address. Are you one of His vessels today, fit and ready for the Master’s use so that He can speak and work through you to address the spiritual needs of others, or are you like many others that have scripted answers that are more appealing to the outward man than the inward one? Someday we will all have to stand before God Himself and answer for our own lives the things we did and the things we spoke; so if the answer you give today is of our Father then you will have no need to be ashamed today, as well as the day of judgment. It’s much easier to give the Lord’s answer to mankind when it is something you have put into practice and know firsthand for yourself how it works. However, if you are just reading from someone else’s script of how they perceive the Lord, and how they think people should be witnessing to others, then you are just giving a second hand account of someone else’s experience and not your own, thus the term novice.

Proverbs 19:20-21 Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end. (21) There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand. (KJV)

Here is a reminder; how about giving a simple straight forward answer to anyone that would ask of you a reason of the hope within you and how they too can partake of this heavenly gift? Mankind keeps coming up with a bunch of gimmicks on how to win people to the Lord, when the Lord Himself said that the truth and only the truth would set them free. First and foremost you need to hear the Lord’s counsel for yourself, knowing who He is and how to be an example of the believers, not just words but conduct also. Only the counsel of the Lord will stand, and only those that receive His word will be able to stand as well; while the rest may have had good intentions in the beginning of their walk they will eventually fall away, returning to the realm they were once delivered from.

I will tell you one that really stands out to me when I think of the many devices of man, is some of this so called Christian rock music, people that stoop to the lower fallen nature of mankind thinking that will win souls over. Having watched some of these so called artists, and listening to some of this nonsense on the radio, the only thing different between them and the world is that they just change a few words and then think it has the Lord’s approval. Somehow I just can’t see my Lord on a stage jumping around with a guitar in hand acting like some out of control lunatic. For those that do attempt to portray my Lord and Savior that way obviously don’t have a clue who He truly is and how He desires His kingdom to be represented here on earth. You go stand before my God someday with this song and dance and see how far you get; then try explaining to a spiritual being how something that began in the Spirit was being so misrepresented by a bunch of lame brains in the flesh. We are the ones that should be transformed and different from the world and its way of thinking; imitators of Christ and not conforming to this world and its fallen realm.

Galatians 1:6-7 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: (7) Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. (KJV)

These false doctrines of man, these winds of doctrines that blow around us; Paul marveled at how quickly God’s people had given in and were being deceived into some perversion of the gospel. The Bible says we should fight the good fight of faith; but how much of a fight do we put up, are we like the lion on the Wizard of Oz who made a lot of noise until someone tapped him in the snout and he gave up crying? These gospels that man claims will win the people to the Lord have nothing to do with the Lord; they are nothing more than a cheap hoax that appeals to the flesh and not the Spirit. No matter what form it manifests in, it is up to you to exercise your spiritual senses so that you can rightly discern what is of God and what isn’t. I marvel at how spiritually illiterate many people who claim to be of God really are; when the time they need to be teachers they are truly the ones that need to be taught all over from the beginning, having missed the simple first principles of God and how His kingdom truly operates. While many may read and search through the scriptures to find the answer they miss the spiritual implications and meaning of them because they still only see a man named Jesus, but never come to an understanding of who Christ within Him is and how to be led by His spirit. If any man has not the spirit of Christ and an understanding of how to operate by faith in His message, then He is not of God and will not be able to give the answer God intended for that man to give, which can only be given by those that truly know the doctrine of Christ.

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)

That answer you gave to someone, was it really from the Lord, or was it something you gave to impress them? Have you taken the time to hear the message of Christ firsthand for yourself so that you know and are not just guessing that what you are speaking came from the Father through Him? If you don’t know or are not sure, then it would do you good not to say anything rather than mislead someone to another gospel that is not of our Lord. I don’t care personally what others think or say about me or my walk as long as I seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness concerning how to answer a man; then I know God is answering my prayers when I speak to Him, as well as seeking my own personal requests.

Psalms 145:18-21 The LORD is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth. (19) He will fulfil the desire of them that fear him: he also will hear their cry, and will save them. (20) The LORD preserveth all them that love him: but all the wicked will he destroy. (21) My mouth shall speak the praise of the LORD: and let all flesh bless his holy name for ever and ever. (KJV)

Do you wish to be near and dear to our Lord? Then it can only be accomplished in truth, being open and honest with Him, not trying to hide things, but letting Him show you how to be an overcomer in these things so that you can speak boldly with confidence on His behalf when asked. If you call on Him in truth then you can expect an honest response in truth; however, if you try to lie then don’t expect His response. Your mouth will truly speak the praises of the Lord when you truly make Him the Lord in your life and allow Him to have His way in and through you; sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that even those that are outside the kingdom of God won’t have anything they can pin on you.

John 4:23-24 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. (24) God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (KJV)

You know people, worshipping God is not standing in some building with your hands in the air looking up to the ceiling like you’re in some kind of trance, or hallucinating like your having a flashback to Woodstock; rather true worship, reverence for God and His word, is done in a lifestyle that is in Spirit and according to His truth. Truly worshipping God is presenting yourself to Him as a living sacrifice, alive spiritually and dead to your own desires of the flesh; ready, willing, and able to give His answer to any that would be seeking. How fit and prepared are you to walk in the Spirit and know that you are speaking words of life, giving the only answer our Father approves of today?

God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Get Real

8/17/2015

Williams New Testament translation for Matthew 5:37
37. But your way of speaking must be a simple `Yes' or `No.' Anything beyond this comes from the evil one.

How sound and sure is the speech that is proceeding from your mouth? Are you absolutely sure that what you say is what you mean? Are others around you sure of where you are coming from or are you one of those that claim to be one of God’s people, but yet still friendly with the worlds way of thinking? The world and its way of thinking is full of nice guys, okie dokie people that don’t like to ripple the water; people that would rather tickle ears than feed the spirit; professing themselves to be wise, they actually are fools. Practice what you preach, being a written epistle that is easily known and read of all men so that there is no doubt about who you really are and who you are a representation of.

Matthew 12:35-37 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. (36) But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. (37) For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. (KJV)

Some of the definitions for the word idle include, inactive, lazy, as well as useless words that obviously are not spiritual and not bringing life to the hearers. These words can come in the form of flattery, saying one thing but meaning another, presenting a false front, words that you will need to give account of before our heavenly Father and basically explain to Him why you lied. If you are not sure what to say, or cannot say it faithfully, then it would be best kept unsaid until a time you knew was appropriate. Maybe your perception of a situation isn’t totally clear, so rather than shoot first and aim second, you need to make sure of who or what you’re pointing at before you fire a round. The church of God, which is His people, really need to understand how important our words truly are, because as we see in the above verses they can definitely make or break your fellowship with the Father; and if not checked, even to the point of eternal damnation.

Matthew 18:15-17 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. (16) But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. (17) And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. (KJV)

The word of God is very clear on how to handle a matter, especially between the brethren. As we see in the above verses there is a very clear and orderly pattern for how things should be dealt with in the Church. However, despite how clear and precise it is laid out, most of the time it is handled in reverse and sometimes to the point of making molehills into gigantic mountains of strife and contention, let alone the backbiting. If you have an issue with someone concerning their walk with the Lord, after hopefully praying about the situation first, then it would be fitting to go and discuss the matter with the individual first, face to face to see if it can be resolved. Maybe what ends up getting resolved is your own take on the situation and how what you perceived was a problem was actually more of a simple misunderstanding, lack of communication if you would, which the enemy was more than delighted to throw fuel on the fire to keep it burning. If the issue does in fact turn out to be something that needs to be dealt with, and the person you spoke to wasn’t very open and wanted a clearer explanation, or wasn’t receptive to resolving the matter, then you can take one or two more with you, which not only refers to brethren, but having at least two spiritual witnesses of the word of God to back up your claims.

I have seen firsthand what happens when this order is reversed; how when a situation arises among the brethren it first gets published to everyone else other than to the person involved in the matter. Then after a public proclamation is made to everyone else, sometimes they find out that it wasn’t really such an issue, rather their own personal differences which were based more on their carnal senses and not their spiritual ones. Simply put in laymen’s terms, whatsoever is not of faith is sin; if you can’t faithfully say something to a person’s face, then by God you should not be saying and spewing this petty nonsense to everyone else’s face. Talk about speaking in an unknown tongue; nothing is more unknown and contrary to our Lord than backbiting, strives, and petty contentions over things that have nothing to do with salvation, but rather personal misguided jealousies of people who think they are getting the short end of the stick. When you sin against the brethren, as the Bible says, you are sinning against Christ Himself. A fire can be a good thing; it can be used for cleansing metals, cooking and heating, but it can be a deadly destructive force if it is fanned with winds of the tongue, a wildfire out of control that destroys anything in its path.

Proverbs 27:3-6 A stone is heavy, and the sand weighty; but a fool's wrath is heavier than them both. (4) Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy? (5) Open rebuke is better than secret love. (6) Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. (KJV)

The Bible tells us that the wrath of man does not work the righteousness of God, it is similar to a stone or how about a millstone; you know the one that is tied to those that offend others and then cast into the sea. These factions and frictions that arise amongst the brethren, is it something spiritual or is it something else like envy, your own perception of how you viewed someone else’s walk? Faithful are the wounds of a friend, like with surgery, it cuts deep and hurts but it brings forth healing afterwards. Our Father considers that openness, even if it is in the form of rebuke, is better than a secret love; those whose mouth says one thing but their heart is far from it. And who can forget one of the most famous kisses of an enemy, the one by a man named Judas who was actually a follower of our Lord yet betrayed Him with a simple kiss as though he was still one of His. Are you an open book to those around you, like a written epistle, so that others know who you truly are and who you truly serve; like the term wearing your heart on your sleeve? Or are you more of a people pleaser, kissing up to others rather than taking a stand for who you are, or should I say who you should be a representation of? When you start kissing peoples anatomy you become a friend of the world, which the Bible clearly states is an enemy with God. Those words of faith that you promised God you would speak on His behalf are now idle useless words which are ready to perish and so will those that speak them.

2 Corinthians 12:15 And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved. (KJV)

Oh and by the way, I would be negligent if I didn’t warn you about the effects of bringing truth to others around us, especially when we are surrounded by a fallen world, that the more you do open up and bring a message of salvation to, the less you will be welcomed with open arms. In fact if you are looking to be popular with mankind and the life of the party then you have chosen the wrong field, because just the opposite will take place. In fact all you need to do is go through the Bible and see those that stood up for the Lord were the ones the enemy did all he could to knock them down. Kind of like with sporting events, the guy with the ball is the target of the defense because he is the one in position to score and achieve the goal. So don’t take it personal people if you are rejected by mankind; in fact, the closer you get to the Lord the farther removed you will be from those that claim to be of God who are more interested in their own personal matters than our Lord’s.

Proverbs 28:23 He that rebuketh a man afterwards shall find more favour than he that flattereth with the tongue. (KJV)

That favour, you will find first and foremost should be coming from God, seeking first His kingdom and righteousness, and how He would have you handle a matter. If you are more concerned with pleasing people then you will be more apt to flatter them with smooth words rather than words of life that were intended to build them up, which is what they ignored in the first place. So basically speaking, you need to choose this day who you will truly serve because if you are not willing to speak words of life on behalf of our Father then He will just move on to someone else who is willing to; and then someday you can explain to Him all that idle chatter you chose to speak and all the idle people you chose to please instead of Him. Get real.

God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Flattery Will Get You No Where

8/14/2015

1Thessalonians 2:3-6 For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile: (4) But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts. (5) For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness: (6) Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ. (KJV)

Flattering words are those that seek to please the people, which can actually beguile them as well if one is not saying what they truly mean. Say what you mean and mean what you say when speaking on behalf of our Lord. Many are more concerned with what people’s perception of them is rather than the approval of our Lord, which makes them more of a hindrance than an asset to the body of Christ. So how do you give God’s answer to people, is it the straight forward truth that will set them free or are you sugar coating the speech to make it more acceptable to them? When you are asked a question, do you give simple yes and no answers or do you feel it is necessary to explain yourself to people, trying to explain it in a way you hope they will accept? For those that wish to truly please our Lord you will find that trying to please God and man just doesn’t seem to work, like mixing oil and water, it just doesn’t gel. For those that are truly steadfast and unmovable in their walk, they will find that pleasing God alone may leave you on a narrow path, one that is not heavily traveled, but the only one that leads to our eternal inheritance.

Matthew 5:37 But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil. (KJV)

Williams New Testament translation for Matthew 5:37
37. But your way of speaking must be a simple `Yes' or `No.' Anything beyond this comes from the evil one.

Have you ever had someone ask you a question or make a request for you to do something and your answer was no? Then once you gave your answer there is a space of uncomfortable silence, where now you are expected or think you owe an explanation? This is exactly what the Lord is referring to here; keep your answer simple and to the point and don’t think you always have to explain yourself. Many of us have been brought up with the mindset that we need to be polite and do things just to please others, even things that are contrary to sound doctrine or something the Lord just isn’t asking us to partake of. Now I am not saying to be a jerk, but rather if the Lord asks you not to involve yourself in something, no matter how popular it may be to others, a simple yes or no answer is all that is needed to be pleasing to our Father. And don’t think you need to manufacture an answer just because someone else is putting the pressure on you, if you don’t have an answer at the time or if you are just not sure, then it would be in your best interest to leave it alone and not try to make something up that you will regret later. Sometimes the Lord just may ask you to not get involved even though at the time you are not sure why; but by letting patience have its perfect work, sometime later the answer will manifest as to why the Lord had you withdraw from it. Simply put this is just another way of saying we walk by faith and not sight. Basically what Paul is saying is that if you are always seeking to be a people pleaser, then don’t expect to be used by God. However if you chose His approval above anyone or anything else then you will be a vessel fit, ready for the Masters use.

Psalms 5:8-9 Lead me, O LORD, in thy righteousness because of mine enemies; make thy way straight before my face. (9) For there is no faithfulness in their mouth; their inward part is very wickedness; their throat is an open sepulchre; they flatter with their tongue. (KJV)

Have you ever seen people and the term ‘slick’ applies as a fitting nickname? Someone that always tells everyone what they want to hear, someone that just uses people for their own advantage? The reason there is no faithfulness coming out of the mouth is because there is nothing in the heart but two faced double talk; always the nice guy telling people what they want to hear and not what is really going on, which aptly describes many of the so called pastors and teachers we have around today. Are you able to give a straightforward answer concerning the kingdom of God or do you skirt the truth leaving out the essentials so as not to offend anyone? When someone asks your response to an issue are you able to respond with what is pleasing to God or are you more concerned with mans opinion of you? If someone asks you to get involved in something that is not peaceable, something you know is not of God, do you feel the need to explain it in a way they will accept, sugar coating it, or do you just give a simple yes or no answer and let them ask God for themselves if they are really concerned? We have way too many people pleasers preaching and teaching things they shouldn’t be for their own advantage sake and not the Lord’s anymore, which will have dire consequences to those that follow these wishy washy doctrines.

Ephesians 4:29-30 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. (30) And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. (KJV)

Sometimes what is edifying to the hearers is not always something that is pleasing to them, but something they needed to hear. One of the ways many corrupt the true communication that should be coming from the mouth is by flattery, people pleasing, someone that should have been a minister of grace is now a disgrace in the sight of our Lord. It grieves the Holy Spirit to see the true intention of God watered down by those that don’t have the spiritual spine to stand up and tell the people what they need to hear and not just what they want to hear. When you were raising your children and all they were concerned with in their diet was things that had sugar and spice, things that they thought were nice, did you cave in and give them what they wanted or what they needed? As one matures, and this does include maturing in the Lord, you find out that in order to grow strong it will take a much better diet than that to maintain a healthy body. So it is not only a matter of what you are feeding yourself spiritually, but what are you feeding others around you as well? Is it simple truth that will build them up and edify or are you halting between two opinions seeking the favor of man and God at the same time?

Psalms 12:1-4 Help, LORD; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men. (2) They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak. (3) The LORD shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things: (4) Who have said, With our tongue will we prevail; our lips are our own: who is lord over us? (KJV)

Ever hear the term two faced? Well we have a lot of two faced people that speak from both sides of their mouth because of a double heart, which makes them double minded and unstable in the things of our Lord. So who is Lord in your life, and whose words are you speaking today? Are they spirit and are they life to the brethren or are they of your own tongue seeking your own desires? Don’t wait till it’s too late to find out, remember flattery will get you nowhere.

God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Continuing To Get Good Reception

8/12/2015

Romans 8:14-17 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. (15) For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. (16) The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: (17) And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. (KJV)

When you pick up your phone and a stranger makes a crank call, one that tries to get us into the realm of fear, you can be assured that message is not coming from God. Those that are led by the Spirit will be able to quickly identify the caller on the other end and know whether it is in their best interest to take the call and receive the message or quickly hang up. This same principle holds true in the spiritual realm, God is calling His people and has promised that He would never leave us or forsake us, so now the question is whether the line of communication is still open and you are still getting good reception to hear the message. If you notice the voice on the other end is not as clear as before or you are having a hard time getting good reception, maybe you are not in the place you need to be to get good reception, like a tunnel or a tomb. If that is the case then you need to move back to the realm of the Spirit if you wish to be a joint heir, a continuing partnership with the Lord.

You know when we were children in this world growing up we needed parents or someone older to supervise us and give us the provisions needed to sustain life. Even though some of us would threaten to run away when we were younger, by the time dinner rolled around that plan was abandoned and forgotten. Spiritually you are a child of God, and it is vital that we stay close to our heavenly Father and get the provisions we need as well as the instructions in our walk so that we can sustain this relationship with Him and continue in the deliverance He provided from our own destructions.

Hebrews 12:25-29 See that ye refuse not him that speaketh. For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven: (26) Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven. (27)And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. (28) Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: (29) For our God is a consuming fire. (KJV)

Williams New Testament translation of Hebrews 12:25-29
25. See to it that you do not refuse to listen to Him who is speaking to you. For if they did not escape, because they refused to listen to him who warned them here on earth, how much less can we, if we reject Him who is from heaven? 26. Then His voice shook the earth, 27. but now His promise is, "Once more I will make not only the earth but heaven itself tremble." Now that expression, "Once more," signifies the final removal of the things that can be shaken, to let remain the things that cannot be shaken. 28. Let us, therefore, be thankful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and in this way continue to serve God acceptably in reverence and fear; 29. for our God, indeed, is a consuming fire.

You know this kingdom that cannot be shaken is a spiritual one, one that is not of this world. The kingdom of God is now within you, so when everything else around us is shaken isn’t it comforting to know that you don’t have to be. It is important that we keep the line of communication open to receive this message of salvation which is founded on a rock solid foundation which is Christ, one that cannot be shaken. So where do you stand today; are you on a rock solid footing that is not being moved, one that is established by our heavenly Father or are you standing out in the wilderness having a hard time getting good spiritual reception because of all the winds of doctrine blowing around you?

John 18:36 Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence. (KJV)

If the Lord’s kingdom is not of this world, then why do so many today still pattern their walk and thinking according to this world and its fallen way of thinking? You have access to His kingdom which is not of this world and is not accepted of this world; and yet with this in mind why do so many still fight with the world over worldly things and issues that have nothing to do with our eternal salvation. But we have rights, yes you do, you have direct access to the throne of God through His Son Jesus Christ to hear His message of faith delivered personally to you so that you won’t be shaken and all stirred up with the cares of this life and deceitfulness of riches which many are chasing after and no longer able to hear the message of Christ clearly.

Romans 10:16-18 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? (17) So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (18) But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world. (KJV)

Williams New Testament translation for Romans 10:16-18
16. However, they have not all given heed to the good news, for Isaiah says, "Lord, who has put faith in what we told?" 17. So faith comes from hearing what is told, and hearing through the message about Christ. 18. But may I ask, They had no chance to hear, did they? Yes, indeed: "All over the earth their voices have gone, to the ends of the world their words."

Again I like using the Williams translation for these verses; faith is our ability to hear for ourselves personally the message delivered by Christ. The more you give ear to this message, the less you will be giving ear to the mess that is going on around us in the world, and the less likely you will be shaken by the outward. While many think that only certain people in certain parts of the world are able to hear the message of God, the Bible is quite clear to point out that this message has gone forth throughout the whole world. After all, the Bible is quite clear to point out that God has given to every man the measure of faith. The question now is how many are receiving it, as well as the fact that He is no respecter of persons? He is quite clear to also to point out that His spirit was poured out upon all flesh, not just some. So now the question is, who is listening to the voice of God and His message being delivered by Christ; and who is willing to walk by faith and not by sight or any other physical senses that are contrary to our spiritual senses? In fact to the carnal man the things of God make no sense, but are foolish to those in the realm of the flesh, those that continue to live according to their fallen nature and not partakers of the divine one.

Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (KJV)

When a situation arises in your life is God the first one you seek for your instructions or do you look elsewhere first and then wonder why you got so shook up? Once you ask the Lord, will you be still long enough to hear the answer and know that He is God so that you can proceed forward in your walk with confidence and boldness? Expect the best, because you serve the best, and you will not be shaken in mind or spirit, but rather steadfast and unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.

Calling All Christians

4/24/2015

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.

A Heavenly Calling

4/23/2015

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.

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2 John 9