Good day. Today we are posting Part 2 of a six part newsletter series In God's Image! written in 1996 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 series. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writings for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1996.

​In God’s Image!     v18n48
Part Two

​

2 Timothy 3:16-17 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. (KJV)


Doctrine: something that is taught.


Reproof: to rebuke for a fault or misdeed.


Correction: the act or process of removing mistakes or errors.


Righteousness: 1 Corinthians 1:30, Christ is made unto me, righteousness.


Why, have we as believers, allowed so much to stand in our way to the kingdom of God? There are detours that come in all kinds of shapes, and sizes, but they are all distractions from the truth of Father’s Word.


Men! Most of you can give stats, salaries, and a vast array of other information regarding your favorite athletes; as well as give the standings and schedules of your favorite teams. We also know what fishing lures are good, and which scents to use for hunting season.


Women! Most of you are aware of what are the hot fashions and colors for the coming seasons. You are also aware of what the popular hairstyles are.


In all actuality, the list for the men and women could go on and on. The essence of the matter is though; how many of us know Father’s Word, and know it well enough to know beyond any doubt, that if the Son were to appear today, that you would be with Him and Father forever?


There are some times, (that is when I get in the flesh), that I wish that Father would not have asked me to serve in the ministry. That He would have called someone else to open the revelation of the mystery of the Gospel to. Being fully used of Father, at times has to be the loneliest that can be asked of a person. Most, do not want to have much to do with you. They think you are a fanatic, (which I am with the Word), that I am to picky with the Word, or that I have gone off the deep end, (and maybe even try to help me over). For some reason, most seem to think or believe that Father’s message should come in the form of an ice cream sundae.


If in fact, we are so on fire for the Word of  God in this country, why are there so many mind boggling problems, and such turmoil and unrest, in what we call the “church” of God? Why is there so much backbiting and bickering between the different denominations? Doesn’t Paul tell us in Ephesians the fourth chapter, “There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.” Who, or what are we following? God’s Word, or man’s traditions and doctrines?


Could it be, that we have established rules and regulations that allow us to do what we want to do, when we want to do it? Have we tried to keep God in a box, and limit His ability to what we can see and understand in the physical realm? Are we able to hear the Word of God for ourselves?


If in fact, hearing and obeying the Word of God is so popular, why in the past has it cost the lives of so many that held fast to “their profession of faith in Christ Jesus?” Who, and for what reasons was Jesus Christ of Nazareth put to death? Why was Stephen also put to death by the religious leaders of his day? Why was Paul, Peter and John put to death, and tried to be silenced?


For the most part, we have turned our backs to Father and the Word that He has given to us, for our benefit. We have to many things to do, and to many places to go; for God’s Word to have first place in our lives. When is the last time, that you put out an all out effort to be what Father wants you to be?


2 Chronicles 7:14-15 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 15 Now mine eyes shall be open, and mine ears attent unto the prayer that is made in this place. (KJV)


Hosea 4:6-7 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children. 7 As they were increased, so they sinned against me: therefore will I change their glory into shame. (KJV)


We always hear these words, but always think that they are for someone else, or some other group. Yet, Father is quite clear to say, my people! Those who are called by His name!


2 Timothy 4:2-5 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. 5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. (KJV)


1651  elegcho- reprove: 1) to convict, to refute, to confute a) generally with a suggestion of shame of the person convicted  b) by conviction to bring to the light, to expose  2) to find fault with, correct  a) by word:  1) to reprehend severely, to chide, to admonish, to reprove 2) to call to account, to show one his fault, to demand an explanation  b) by deed:  to chasten, to punish.


2008  epitimao- rebuke: 1) to show honor to, to honor  2) to raise the price of  3) to adjudge, to award, in the sense of merited penalty  4) to tax with fault, to berate, to chide, to rebuke, to reprove, to censure severely, to admonish or charge sharply


3870  parakaleo- exhort: 1) to call to one's side, to call for, to summon  2) to address, to speak to, (call to, call upon), which may be done in the way of exhortation, entreaty, comfort, instruction, etc.  a) to admonish, to exhort  b) to beg, to entreat, to beseech, to strive to appease by entreaty  c) to console, to encourage and strengthen by consolation, to comfort, to receive consolation, to be comforted  d) to encourage, to strengthen  e) exhorting and comforting and encouraging  f) to instruct, to teach.


3115  makrothumia- longsuffering:1) patience, endurance, constancy, steadfastness, perseverance  2) patience, forbearance, longsuffering, slowness in avenging wrongs.


Have we truly arrived at the place that Father wants us in His Word? Or, have we altered the Word of God to justify where we are at?


What if Paul the Apostle was able to step forth in our churches today, do you really think that he would be welcomed with open arms? When one of the first things that would come out of his mouth would be, “who has cast a spell on you?” “Who has caused you to rely on the flesh instead of the Spirit?” How long would Paul be welcome at your service? How long would he be welcome in your building or city?


We would find something wrong with him, so we would be able to justify ourselves, as to why we should not listen to him. It might be the clothes that he would wear. Perhaps, the accent that he might have. And don’t forget, that he had been in jail, (for speaking the truth in love). What would you find wrong with him? What excuse could you come up with, that you would not listen to the Spirit of God that was speaking through him?


It is easy to see and understand why none of the major denominations would have nothing to do with Paul, if he were around today! Yet, with all that Paul went through, Father was able to use this man to pen and record a good portion of the New Testament. To open to us the mystery of the gospel, and the message of Father’s grace.


How do I look? Since the day that we have first believed, most of us as Christians have wondered about who God is. Most fail to hear and see what the book of Genesis has to tell us.


Genesis 1:26-27 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. 27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. (KJV)


We all need to stop, and look in the mirror, and what do you see? Is what you see, pleasing to you? Do you make funny faces, and grumble because you are not satisfied with what you see? Are you able to comprehend, that God created you in their image, and after their likeness? When we look in that mirror, we need to be able to see a unique and individual facet of God. Each of us, is a unique part of the body of Christ. What a wonderful and blessed thing to behold. Do you, or are you able to see God’s deep love for just you?


When we look in the mirror, we need to be cognizant of the fact, that when God created us, He said that all that He had created was good. We have to get to the point as Christians, in our relationship with God, that we are satisfied with how He created us. Yet, how often do we hear, or even speak words that are contrary to this?


Did you notice in the first part of verse 26, that God is talking in the plural. Here, we get our first glimpse at the plurality of God.


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


Next week: In God’s Image, part 3

Good day. Today we are posting Part 1 of a six part newsletter series In God's Image! written in 1996 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 series. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writings for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1996.

In God's Image!     v18n47
Part One
 
Genesis 1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: (KJV)
 
Genesis 11:7 Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another's speech. (KJV)
 
There are several things that we should make note of, as we look at these two verses from Genesis. Did you notice, that God is talking in the plural? “Let us!” Also, if God created us in their image and after their likeness, are you aware of how much responsibility comes along with that? What do you see, when you look in the mirror?
 
As we take a close look at Genesis chapter one, we can see the creation of the world as we know it. We can see all that God created and placed here for us. The order, that was brought about, and placed into operation at the command given by His Word.  Everything was set in motion, and established by God’s Word. God spoke, and His Word went forth and created.
 
If this is so, (which I know that it is), and God created us in their image, and after their likeness, are we then not created to operate by the same principles as Father? Just as God in Genesis chapter one said, let there be light, plants, animals and man, and there it all was, exactly according to His Word. Then, would not the same be true for us? Our very words, have created the world that surrounds us!
 
Hebrews 11:3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. (KJV)
 
Psalms 119:89-91 For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. 90 Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth. 91 They continue this day according to thine ordinances: for all are thy servants. (KJV)
 
We are so quick to point our finger at everyone and everything else for the problems that are in the world today. Yet, we are the ones that have allowed our words and grammar to be modified to suit our own individual needs and wants. In doing so, we have caused a separation and a void between ourself and God.
 
An illustration that Father has used to explain this to me, is that of a Polaroid picture. The moment that we are born-again, a picture is taken of us, which will be used for our passport to heaven. Out of the camera, comes this picture that has absolutely no clarity to it. As I continue in the Word of God, the picture begins to develop. The more time I will spend with Father in His Word, the more the picture develops, and the clearer the definitions on and in the picture become. Will your passport picture be developed enough by the time you get to the border crossing? Will it be developed enough that Jesus Christ will be able to recognize you as one of His?
 
We need to ask ourselves, how well am I applying God’s Word to my life? The moment that I forget Father and His Word, my picture quits developing.
 
Romans 3:3-4 For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? 4 God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged. (KJV)
 
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)
 
Irregardless of what we think or say, we cannot change God’s laws. They continue to work this very day, whether or not we believe. The question is, will God’s laws work for or against you?
 
Take gravity for example. Have you ever seen it? Do you understand totally how it works? Yet, if you were to walk off of the roof of a five story building, and all the way to the ground tell Father that His law of gravity did not work, the end result would be that you would be the one that was wrong. Possibly even dead wrong!
 
The same is true with the law of faith. Your words will form your world around you, right or wrong. Your words are your servants. They will perform the exact things that you send them to do. This area of our walk is not taught very often, and most times when it is, it is taught out of the context for which Father intended.
 
Many, when teaching in this area, tell the people that it gives them the right to demand anything that they want from God. Just claim whatever you want, and God will give it to you. What we fail to hear and see, is that Father said that He would supply all of our needs, not our wants! The desires of the heart, are quite different from the desires of the flesh!
 
They also try to apply it the area of giving to God, so that you will get a hundred fold return. Can someone please show me where that is in the Bible, establishing it in the mouth of two or three witnesses? For some reason, I can not locate that in my Bible. I give when Father asks me to give, not to get anything in return, but give because I know that it pleases Father, and that I also realize how much Father has given for me. His only begotten Son, Christ Jesus our Lord! Can you put a price tag on your salvation?
 
Your words, form your world around you, regardless of whether or not they are in accordance with the scriptures or not.  What you have spoken, is out there either working for you or against you!  No one can force you to speak right or wrong words; it is all your choice.
 
Hebrews 11:1-3 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. 2 For by it the elders obtained a good report. 3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. (KJV)
 
Just as God's words, framed the worlds that we now see, our words form the world in which we now live. If we do not like the situations that presently occupy our life, whose fault is it? It certainly is not Father's fault. He gave His only Son that we might have abundant life through Him!
 
Matthew 15:10-11 And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and understand: 11 Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man. (KJV)
 
2840 koinoo- defileth - to make common a) to make (Levitically) unclean, to render unhallowed, to defile, to profane  b) to declare or count unclean.
 
Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing assunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (KJV)
 
The thoughts and intents of Father are quite clear, that all that He created was and is good. It is only as He gave man dominion over His creation that man has perverted them.
 
That you may know Him
In the service of Jesus Christ,
Larry Gazelka

Good day. Today we are posting the 7th and final newsletter in the series The Forgotten Son; there was originally 7 parts to this series but over time Part 4 went missing. We pray that you will allow the Lord to fill in the missing part in your hearts as He ministers unto you as you partake of these newsletters. The Forgotten Son newsletters were written in 1996 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 series. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writings for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1996.

The Forgotten Son!      Vol.18 No. 32
           “The Pickle!”
                   Part VII
  
Mark 16:15-20 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 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; 18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. 19 So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. 20 And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen. (KJV)
 
Jesus Christ told His disciples to take the gospel to all the world. The question is, how did they accomplish this; and more importantly, how do we?
 
The disciples did not make it to all the world! Does this mean that they failed in what Jesus Christ asked them to do? Not in the least bit! Let’s look at a few scriptures.
 
Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. (KJV)
 
2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (KJV)
 
Our taking of the gospel to all of the world, begins with where we are right now. It starts in our home, with the very people that are around us. We are to be written epistles, known and read of all men, starting with our own household. Why should anyone listen to us if our own house is in shambles?
 
Father has blessed us with the ability to send the Ministry newsletters around the world, even though we are still located in Montana. If we will let Father use us, there is no limitation to what He can accomplish through us.
 
Notice though, first off in Acts 1:8, that I have to be a witness unto Him! For some unknown reason, the church is being taught that we are to be witnesses to everyone else. This is not the case at all. I need to study for Father’s approval, not anyone else's! Do you know what it is to be a witness unto Father?
 
3144 martus-a witness: a) in a legal sense b) an historical sense, one who is a spectator of anything, for example, of a contest c) in an ethical sense, those who after his example have proved the strength and genuineness of their faith in Christ by undergoing a violent death.
 
I am to die to self, to allow His Word to be the ultimate thing in my life. I am to study for Father’s approval; not man’s, nor my pastor’s; nor anyone else. This is the example that I am to set. Being a martyr for His Word, will allow Father to use me in every facet of my life, as I live it totally for Him. A good example of this is in the book of Acts, let’s take a look at it. Read Acts 8:26-32.
 
Acts 8:26-29 And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert. 27 And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, 28 Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet. 29 Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. (KJV)
 
As we totally submit our life to Father through Jesus Christ, we will be ready to have an answer for every man that asks of the hope that is within us. Father will have the right words readily available for us. This is why the Word has to be such a part of our everyday life, not just once or twice a week.
 
In the above passage, we are able to see, how Philip in being willing to hear and obey Father, is able to bring the salvation to one person. Yet, what we fail to see and hear, is how many people did this eunuch have an effect on upon returning to Ethiopia? Sometimes we try to second guess the instructions that Father gives, because we are to busy rationalizing what we have been asked to do.
 
Mark 16:16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. (KJV)
 
4100  pisteuo- believeth; 1) to think to be true, to be persuaded of, to credit, to place confidence in  a) used of the thing believed, to credit, to have confidence  b) in a moral or religious reference  1) used in the New Testament of the conviction and trust to which a man is impelled by a certain inner and higher prerogative and law of soul  2) to trust in Jesus or God as able to aid either in obtaining or in doing something: saving faith  3) mere acknowledgment of some fact or event: intellectual faith  2) to entrust a thing to one, that is, his fidelity; to be intrusted with a thing.
 
907 baptizo- baptized; to overwhelm, Not to be confused with 0911, bapto. The clearest example that shows the meaning of baptizo is a text from the Greek poet and physician Nicander, who lived about 200 B. C. It is a recipe for making pickles and is helpful because it uses both words. Nicander says that in order to make a pickle, the vegetable should first be `dipped' (bapto) into boiling water and then `baptized' (baptizo) in the vinegar solution. Both verbs concern the immersing of vegetables in a solution. But the first is temporary. The second, the act of baptizing the vegetable, produces a permanent change.
 
When used in the New Testament, this word more often refers to our union and identification with Christ than to our water baptism. For example, Mark 16:16. `He that believes and is baptized shall be saved'. Christ is saying that mere intellectual assent is not enough. There must be a union with him, a real change, like the vegetable to the pickle! --Bible Study Magazine, James Montgomery Boice (May, 1989).
 
We have to affirm with our mouth and mind, the change that has taken place in our heart through Jesus Christ.
 
2 Corinthians 5:17-18 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; (KJV)
 
Just as the unseen characteristics of the cucumber changed when put into the vinegar solution; we are to be changed internally too. The Holy Spirit that we receive at the moment of the new birth, causes a change that can not be seen with the human eye. To everyone else, we may appear to be the same, but we know that a change has taken place. The inner man has become a new creation in Christ Jesus; old things have passed away; all things have become new!
 
If the pickle is taken out of the vinegar solution, it too will rot and spoil, just as the cucumber will if you just let it sit and it is not used for the purpose that it was intended for. It will take a little longer for the pickle to spoil, because of the change that has taken place. So, as we can see, we have to continue in the Word, being led by the Spirit of God, if we do not want to become unfit for the Master’s use.
 
Romans 8:9-10 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. (KJV)
 
Mark 16:17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; (KJV)
 
Have you allowed the Spirit of Christ to have total control of your life? Did you know that it is never too late, if you are still able to read this?
 
Allow the change in your life; just as the cucumber did, when it allowed the vinegar solution to do the work that it was to do. We too, have to allow the Holy Spirit to do the work that it wants to do in our life, but in our case, we have to allow Him to.
 
Have you been transformed as the cucumber was? It is the only way that you will be able to spend eternity with Father!
 
Will Jesus Christ be able to present your name to Father in his Book of Life?
  
That you may know Him
In the service of Jesus Christ
Larry Gazelka

Good day. Today we are posting the 6th newsletter in the series The Forgotten Son; there was originally 7 parts to this series but over time Part 4 went missing. We pray that you will allow the Lord to fill in the missing part in your hearts as He ministers unto you as you partake of these newsletters. The Forgotten Son newsletters were written in 1996 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 series. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writings for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1996.
 
The Forgotten Son!      Vol.18 No.31
         The Keys of the Kingdom
                        Part VI
 
Matthew 16:15-20 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. 18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 20 Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ. (KJV)
 
In some of the past Newsletters, we have brought out the fact that upon the revelation of Christ, (the Rock, 1 Corinthians10:4), He will build His church! Against His church that is built upon the Rock, the gates of hell shall not prevail against!
 
Note verse 19. He will give unto those who build upon the rock, the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Did you notice that they are the keys of the kingdom, not to the kingdom?
 
Revelation 1:18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. (KJV)
 
They are the keys of hell and death! How do these two scripture verses tie together?
 
Colossians 1:18-20 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. 19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; 20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, (KJV)
 
We have to recognize, that Jesus Christ is the firstborn from the dead; physically and spiritually. We have to keep fresh in our minds, that to accomplish this; He had to present a perfect sacrifice physically (through death), and spiritually (through hell).
 
How did this, or could this come about?
 
What we have to realize is that Jesus of Nazareth, had to be born through a pure bloodline, in order that He would not inherit any of the transgressions that would otherwise be past down from previous generations. This is why He had to be born of a virgin. He had to be conceived by the Spirit of God so there would be no sins from the moment of conception, until His death on the cross, and in the grave. The sacrifice had to be without spot, wrinkle, or blemish.
 
Acts 10:38-40 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. 39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: 40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; (KJV)
 
Being conceived by the Holy Spirit, He started without sin in his life; and was still without sin the day that they put him on the cross. It had to be this way, since it is by his stripes we have been healed. It had to be a perfect sacrifice in the flesh, to remove the curse of the Law (flesh). Once the pure blood poured from his side, the atonement for the flesh was completed; but the spiritual atonement still had to be made. (We will cover the spiritual aspect of salvation in an upcoming newsletter.)
 
As we can begin to see this and walk in this; we will see how that the moment that we accept Jesus Christ as the Lord of our life, we receive a new bloodline. From that point on, we should no longer be subject to the things that were inherited through our fleshly bloodlines.
 
When you go into a doctor’s office, can you recall what one of the first things that they ask of you?
 
They ask you to fill out a history of your health. They want you to list all of the things that you inherited from your parents. You are supposed to go down the list, and sign-off, and/or claim everything that is applicable to you and your children.
 
When you check off on these things, do you realize what you are coming into agreement with? Do you really want the things that you are agreeing with?
 
This is why it is so important for us to study the Word of God for father’s approval. We have to see what our inheritance is, and reprogram our mind with the Word of God, rather than the word of the world. It took us many years of hard work to get ourselves in the shape that we are in; and it will take much diligence in the Word to get our minds to release the Word of God that is sown in our hearts.
 
Ephesians 2:15-16 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; 16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: (KJV)
 
Galatians 3:13-14 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: 14 That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. (KJV)
 
Have you ever looked at Deuteronomy chapter 28? If you will take some time to look at verses 15 through 62, you will be able to find every kind of disease that is imaginable to mankind. They happen to those who do not obey the Law. But those that are in Christ Jesus, have been redeemed from the curse of the law. By having a pure sacrifice of the flesh at the cross, he was able to pay the price that Father would accept, in my behalf. All those that have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, have this new bloodline made available to them. But the choice is yours!
 
Romans 11:16-19 :and if the root be holy, so are the branches. 17 And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree; 18 Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. 19 Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in. (KJV)
 
Paul in Romans 11 is quite plain in telling us, that if we are grafted into the vine, we have a new source of nourishment. Can you tell me what this source is? If Christ Jesus is the vine, and I am the branch, who, or from whence is my source?
 
2 Corinthians 5:17-20 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 20           Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, (KJV)
 
We are a new creation in Christ! Old things are passed away! These old things are dead, if I will walk in the newness of Christ. This is why we need to take the time to keep our minds renewed with the pure Word of God. Then, and only then, will we be able to see all that is our rightful inheritance. All things are become new!
 
3 John 1:2 Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. (KJV)
 
We will prosper (spiritually) and be in health (physically) as to the amount that we have our mind to be renewed in the Word of God. It is up to you, as to what you will hear, and what you will believe. No one else can do it for you.
 
Once Jesus of Nazareth had died upon the cross, being made a curse for us; now the Spirit of Christ became sin for us. Do you recall what the wages of sin are? Now Father would have to turn his back to him, since Father can not look upon sin. But, after three days and three nights in the very pit of hell, He arose from the dead, taking the keys of hell and death.
 
He was now able to go to Father with the perfect sacrifice of both the flesh and the Spirit, and of these two He made one new man, thus making peace with God the Father. Look at Ephesians 2:15!
 
God’s people perish for lack of knowledge! His people fail to maintain a working knowledge of His Word! His Word is Spirit, and it is truth. It is the truth of this Word that will set you free!
 
That you may know Him
In the service of Jesus Christ
Larry Gazelka
 
Next week: Part VII of “The Forgotten Son!”

Good day. Today we are posting the 5th newsletter in the series The Forgotten Son; there was originally 7 parts to this series but over time Part 4 went missing. We pray that you will allow the Lord to fill in the missing part in your hearts as He ministers unto you as you partake of these newsletters. The Forgotten Son newsletters were written in 1996 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 series. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writings for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1996.

The Forgotten Son!       Vol.18 No.30
Part V
  
Philippians 2:9-11 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)
 
Every “knee”, (that is the flesh), shall bow at the name of Jesus of Nazareth, and all that He accomplished in the flesh, by the Spirit of Christ.
 
Every tongue, (out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks), will confess and proclaim, that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
 
We read what the scriptures say, but we do not hear what they are saying! We are to caught up in the traditions and doctrines of men, instead of hearing what the Word of God has to tell us.
 
For some reason, we are more concerned with what man is preaching and telling us, rather then allowing the Spirit of truth to lead us and guide us in all truth. We seem to have forgotten that we are to be studying for Father’s approval.
 
Galatians 1:6-12 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. 8       But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. 9 As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. 10 For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. 11 But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. 12 For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. (KJV)
 
Paul is quite explicit to tell us that he marvels that we are so soon removed from Him that called us. That call that made available to us the grace of Jesus Christ, to each and every person on this earth. They have allowed in words, that have removed them from the gospel of Christ. They have allowed a perversion of The Gospel!
 
What would another gospel be?
 
It does not matter who or what they are; if they do not preach that Christ is the power of God to everyone that believes, let them be accursed!
 
331 anathema- accursed; a thing devoted to God without hope of being redeemed, and if an animal, to be slain; therefore, a person or thing doomed to destruction a) a curse b) a man accursed, devoted to the direst of woes.
 
Paul goes on to explain to us, that if he was a person pleaser, he would tickle their ears with what they would like to hear, instead of what they needed to hear. Paul did not seek the favor or approval of man. He had already tried the traditions and doctrines of men and knew that they did not work. (Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the unadulterated Word of God).
 
If you follow after man and his doctrines, you cannot be a servant of Christ!
 
Paul, after his encounter with Jesus Christ, sought out the will of Father. He did not want to hear man’s opinions and ideas, for he had listened to those all of his life, up until this point. He did not chase after the Apostles either! Paul went straight to the source! In doing so, it was revealed to him, by the Holy Spirit.
 
We see so many people, that can quote what someone else has to say about the Word of God, but do not know the Word of God for themselves.
 
Amos 8:11-13 Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD: 12 And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the LORD, and shall not find it. 13 In that day shall the fair virgins and young men faint for thirst. (KJV)
 
How many of you, run from meeting to meeting, and church to church, seeking what man can tell you? How easy is it to just turn to Father and His Word? We are so busy running to and fro, looking for the Word of God, and yet it is right in front of us in the Bible.
 
From sea to sea! How much growth in a garden, will sea water bring about?
 
The Word tells us that there is a famine in the land. Why?
 
The Spirit of truth will lead us and guide us in all truth!
 
Galatians 1:13-20 For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it: 14 And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers. 15 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. 18 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)
 
When the Son of God was revealed to Paul, he sought wisdom and understanding from Father. It would have been real easy for him to run here, and to run there, hearing what everyone else had to say. But Paul sought out the truth. (Thank God for that!) For three years he roamed through Arabia and finally to Damascus, hearing Father’s instructions. After this, Paul proceeded to carry out his calling. (I praise God through Jesus Christ for his obedience.)
 
Matthew 16:15-20 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. 18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock (1 Corinthians 10:4) I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 20 Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ. (KJV)
 
Upon this Rock, the revelation of Christ, Paul established the truth in his life.
 
2 Timothy 4:16-17 At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. 17 Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: (KJV)
 
Not everyone wanted to hear the insights that Paul had received from the Father. If you will look closely, you will see, that at the very first, there were not any that stood with Paul. They wanted nothing to do with him.
 
2 Peter 3:15-16 And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;16 As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction. (KJV)
 
If we look at those of the gospel as mere men, how can we ever hear what Father wants to say to us. Paul was sure of the Word that the Spirit of Christ had revealed to him. He knew what it said, and no man could take that away from him.
 
Upon this Rock, the revelation of Christ, Paul established the truth in his life. And because of Paul’s obedience and faithfulness, we are now able to be partakers of the Kingdom of God.
 
 
That you may know Him
In the service of Jesus Christ
Larry Gazelka
 
 
Matt 16:19, And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. (KJV)
 
Next week: The Keys of the Kingdom   Part 6

Good day. Today we are posting the 3rd newsletter in the series The Forgotten Son; there was originally 7 parts to this series but over time Part 4 went missing. We pray that you will allow the Lord to fill in the missing part in your hearts as He ministers unto you as you partake of these newsletters. The Forgotten Son newsletters were written in 1996 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 series. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writings for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1996.
                        
The Forgotten Son!          Vol.18 No.28
              Part III
  
Matthew 12:31-32 Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men. 32 And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come. (KJV)
 
To deny Christ, is to deny the Holy Spirit. What we have to remember is, that if any man has not the Spirit of Christ, he is not of God. When we do not use the name of Christ, (for whatever reason), are we not speaking against the work that Father did through His Son Jesus Christ?
           
You cannot know the Father, except you know the Son, that He, the Son, would reveal the Father to you. Has the Son been revealed to you?
 
If you go to make a telephone call, and are not able to get through, what do you do? What actions do you take? There might be any number of things that you might try, including checking to see if you dialed the right number. What do you do when your prayers are not answered? Where do you turn? To whom would you go? How do you know for sure that you have a good connection or line to Father?
 
Romans 1:8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, (KJV)
 
Romans 5:1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: (KJV)
 
In many instances in the Bible, when the word through is used; it has two primary meanings that we are concerned with here. In the New Testament, the two meanings that we will be concerned with are (Strong’s concordance #’s); dia, #1223, which means channel; and en, #1722, which means position or instrument. As we begin to take a look at these, you will begin to see how Jesus Christ is my mediator with Father; and I hope and pray that He is yours also. He is the only channel; or instrument or position, that enables me to have access with Father.
 
Just as when you go to an instant cash machine to get immediate financial help, if you do not remember your pin #, all that you may have available to you, is of no use to you, unless you are able to recall your pin #. You can yell at the machine, kick it, or hit it; but until you remember the code, you will not have access to what is rightfully yours.
 
Anything that you ask the Father in His name! Now, you have to know the code!
 
1 Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (KJV)
 
Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (KJV)
 
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. (KJV)
 
It is through Jesus Christ that I have access to Father. He is the source of all that I have, and all that I am. But we have to follow the instructions that are given to us in the Christian’s Operation Manual, more commonly known as the Bible.
 
Sure, it will take time and effort on our part, to effectively study God’s Word. It is much weariness to the flesh, as the writer of Ecclesiastes tell us. But the benefits of applying oneself to the Word of God, are out of this world.
 
Ephesians 2:18-20 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. 19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; (KJV)
 
Ephesians 3:11-12 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: 12 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. (KJV)
 
Romans 5:1-2 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. (KJV)
 
4318 prosagoge (pros-ag-ogue-ay'); access; from 4317 (compare 72); admission: KJV-- access. 1) the act of bringing to, a moving to 2) access, an approach to God, that is, that relationship with God whereby we are acceptable to Him and have assurance that He is favorably disposed toward us.
 
We have to take the time to study the Word for Father’s approval. (People quote other people, more often than they do the Word of God). We have to remember, that those that worship Father, must do so in Spirit and in truth. His Word is truth! As we take the time to study and hear Father’s Word, the sooner that we will develop a deeper relationship with Him.
 
For the most part, we have no idea of from where, or through whom, the power of God is made available to us. There are all kinds of books and pamphlets written on the power and authority of the name of Jesus; yet they almost always leave out the name of Christ.
 
1 Corinthians 1:23-24 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling block, and unto the Greeks foolishness; 24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. (KJV)
 
2 Corinthians 13:3-4 Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you. 4 For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you. (KJV)
 
Ephesians 3:17-20 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by* faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; 19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. 20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, (KJV)
 
*by= dia= through
 
What is the power that is working in your life?
 
The moment that we accept Jesus Christ as the Lord of our life, all of the power and authority that Jesus Christ has, is made available to us through the gift of Christ. (Ephesians 4:7) The key is, that you have to take the time to read the Instruction Manual, (Bible), to see how they are activated. People can help guide you and point you in the right direction; but you have to study the Word of God for Father’s approval. A workman that has no need to be ashamed. One that is able to rightly divide the Word of truth.
 
We have to constantly remind ourselves, that we are created in God’s image, after His likeness. By His Word, the worlds were formed. Jesus Christ said, (His words are Spirit, and they are life), that we would do the works that He did, and greater works, because He was returning to Father. Jesus Christ also said, that He only spoke the things that He heard the Father speak; and did only the things that He had seen Father do! Since faith can only come by hearing the message, and that is the message of Jesus Christ; the only way that we can know what the Father does or speaks, is by getting to know Him! And this can only come by the time that we spend with Him in His Word.
 
What can you do greater than He did? You can not, unless you are fully cognizant of through whom the power is made available through. How can you access or use this power, if you do not meet or fulfill all of the requirements?
 
All too often, we are basing our salvation on what someone else has said; rather then knowing for sure, what the Word of God says! We are defending man’s traditions and doctrines, rather then being rooted and grounded in the Word of God.
 
You also have to keep fresh in your heart and mind, that no flesh can glory in His presence! Father is no respecter of persons.
 
1 Corinthians 1:29-31 That no flesh should glory in his presence. 30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: 31 That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. (KJV)
 
Galatians 2:16-17 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified 17 But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, (KJV)
 
1 Corinthians 15:50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. (KJV)
 
Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God. No flesh can glory in His presence.
 
Matthew 24:5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. (KJV)
 
Matthew 24:24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. (KJV)
 
4105 planao (plan-ah'-o); deceive; from 4106; to (properly, cause to) roam (from safety, truth, or virtue): KJV-- go astray, deceive, err, seduce, wander, be out of the way. 1) to cause to stray, to lead astray, to lead aside from the right way, to go astray, to wander, to roam about 2) metaphorically: a) to lead away from the truth, to lead into error, to deceive b) to be led into error c) to be led aside from the path of virtue, to go astray, to sin d) to sever or fall away from the truth; used of heretics e) to be led away into error and sin.
 
Take a good look around you. There are many that are running all around saying that they are of God; yet they have no knowledge of, and totally ignore the name of Christ. (The most common response is, “What difference does it make!”). We forget, or never knew the definition of the word antichrist. Jesus Christ himself, is making us aware of the fact that many would say that they are acting in His behalf. And yet, they have no knowledge of the name that grants them access unto the very throne of Father.
 
Luke 21:8 And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them. (KJV)
 
Luke 21:17 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake. (KJV)
 
3404 miseo-hated; 1) to hate, to pursue with hatred, to detest 2) to be hated, to be detested (KJV)
 
Many will come saying that they have the answer! Many will say that they have knowledge of the truth. Jesus Christ plainly tells us not to be deceived! Did you notice that it very clearly warns us that many will come! Not a few!
 
How do you think that it was in Noah’s day? Do you think that there were many that were preaching other doctrines? My answer would be that there were many, since only eight of righteousness were spared. Do you think that it is any small matter, that Jesus Christ compares the last days as to the days of Noah?
 
Matthew 24:37-39 But as the days of Noe were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 38 For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, 39 And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. (KJV)
 
We of the household of God, have to hold fast our confession of faith without wavering. We cannot be tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine that man comes up with. If it does not line up with the Word of God, we must spit it out, so it will not take any root in us! Otherwise, it could be us that end up being spewed out!
 
Revelation 3:16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. (KJV)
 
1692 emeo-spue; to vomit, to vomit forth, to throw up.
 
Holding fast to the Word of God, is not a popular decision. Many will tell us that we are being too picky. Yet Jesus Christ himself, tells us that we will be hated of all men, for His name’s sake!
 
​ 
That you may know Him,
In the service of Jesus Christ
Larry Gazelka
 
Word Corner: 3466 musterion- mystery
1) hidden thing, secret, mystery  a) generally mysteries, religious secrets, confided only to the initiated and not to ordinary mortals  b) a hidden or secret thing, not obvious to the understanding c) a hidden purpose or counsel; secret will: 1) of men 2) of God: the secret counsels which govern God in dealing with the righteous, which are hidden from ungodly and wicked men but plain to the godly 2) in rabbinic writings, it denotes the mystic or hidden sense: of an Old Testament saying, of an image or form seen in a vision, of a dream.

Good day. Today we are posting the second newsletter in the series The Forgotten Son; there was originally 7 parts to this series but over time Part 4 went missing. We pray that you will allow the Lord to fill in the missing part in your hearts as He ministers unto you as you partake of these newsletters. The Forgotten Son newsletters were written in 1996 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 series. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writings for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1996.

The Forgotten Son!           Vol.18 No.27
    Part II
  
Do you know the name of the only begotten Son of God? Do you know how to approach the throne of grace in a time of need? It says that we are to come boldly! How can you come boldly if you do not know your rights and authority?
 
In the last series that we did in the newsletters on the armor of God, we should have noticed that one of the first things that Father told us through Paul, was that we are to stand. We have to know our rights, and by whose authority we act upon.
 
Luke 2:25-33 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. 26 And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ. 27 And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, 28 Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, 29 Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: 30 For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, 31 Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; 32 A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. 33 And Joseph and his mother marveled at those things which were spoken of him. (KJV)
 
Have you noticed in this text of Luke, that Simeon was briefed and led by the Holy Spirit? Everyone else there saw the child Jesus, but not Simeon! He saw and beheld the Lord’s Christ! He saw the salvation of Israel, and the Gentiles. The key here, is that Simeon was led by the Holy Spirit! Not by what man or his doctrine had to say; for if that was the case, we would still be waiting for Christ to come, as many are till this very day.
 
We have to quit believing what everyone else tells us, (unless it lines up with the Word of God) and start reading the Word of God for ourselves. Just because everyone else is doing it does not make it right. It is a wide and broad path that leads away from Father’s house; but it is a narrow and straight path unto His kingdom, and it is very lightly traveled.
 
Matthew 16:13-20 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? 14 And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. 15 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. 18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 20 Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ. (KJV)
 
Who do you say that He is? Are you sure enough of your answer, to bet eternity on it? This could be exactly what you are doing! As long as Peter was moving according to the flesh, he could only acknowledge Jesus of Nazareth. But, when directed by the Holy Spirit, then his answer was straight from the throne of Father!
 
It is upon this “Rock”, that He will build His Church. The “Rock” being the revelation of Christ as the only begotten Son of God (vs.16). It is upon the revelation of Jesus Christ, that the gates of hell shall not prevail, since Christ arose with the keys of hell and death.
 
Peter was not yet born-again. What could he do? Nothing, until the Holy Spirit, the Comforter was sent; and then Peter would recall these words, and eventually put them into use. We must see that Christ is the Rock that the builders rejected. We have to take the time to hear what the scriptures are saying to us. For the most part, they are what we hear others say; and this is what we have been basing our salvation upon; someone else's word. It is time for us to wake up and hear what the Spirit of Father is saying unto the “Church”.
 
Romans 9:33 As it is written: "Behold, I lay in Zion a stumblingstone and rock of offense, and whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame." (NKJ)
 
What is a stumblingstone? You have probably heard a few definitions of it, but what exactly is it? Notice, that the Word says that He is a stumblingstone, and a rock of 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 sin.
 
4625  skandalon ("scandal")-offense: the movable stick or trigger of a trap, a trap stick a) a trap, a snare  b) any impediment placed in the way and causing one to stumble or fall, (a stumbling block, occasion of stumbling), that is, a rock which is a cause of stumbling c) figuratively applied to Jesus Christ, whose person and career were so contrary to the expectations of the Jews concerning the Messiah, that they rejected him and by their obstinacy made shipwreck of their salvation 2) any person or thing by which one is (entrapped) drawn into error or sin.
 
Could Jesus of Nazareth been that “rock” that followed the children of Israel in the desert for those forty years? I think not! It was not until around 3 B.C. that Jesus of Nazareth came into being, by the power of the Holy Spirit. You have to find out the mystery of who that was that followed the children of Israel, those forty years in the desert.
 
Isaiah 8:14-16 And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. 15 And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken.16 Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples. (KJV)
 
1 Corinthians 10:4 And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. (KJV)
 
Why do you think it was, that Paul wrote to Timothy, and told him; that at his first answer, no man stood with him, but all forsook him? Do you really think that times have changed?
 
1 Peter 2:6-8 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. 7 Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, 8 And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. (KJV)
 
Mark 14:61-62 Again the high priest asked him, and said unto him, Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed? 62 And Jesus said, I am: (KJV)
 
Paul preached the message of the mystery of gospel, and none wanted to hear it at first. They all tripped and stumbled at it. They were ensnared with the doctrines of men. To side with what had been revealed to Paul, would mean they would lose all of their friends. They would be ostracized and labeled as fanatics.
 
If you take the time to look at 2 Timothy 4:16-18; you will see that the Lord stood with Paul. He was able to do all things through Christ who was his strength. It is not an easy thing to take a stand for the Lord, but those who do, will find that the benefits, are out of this world.
 
2 John 1:7-11 For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. 8 Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. 9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. 10 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: 11 For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. (KJV)
 
John tells us that there are many deceivers that are in the world. It is those who John says that they do not abide in the doctrine of Christ. If they do not teach and expound the doctrine of Christ, we are not to welcome them, nor bid them God speed. If you do, you become a partaker of their evil deeds.
 
Are you drinking of the living waters? Is your source the same as the one that supplied the waters for the children of Israel?
 
John 14:13-14 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it. (KJV)
 
John 14:26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. (KJV)
 
You have to know His name, there are no substitutes! Jesus Christ’s instructions to us are quite explicit to us, but we just do not take the time to hear. Faith only comes by hearing, and hearing by Father’s Word.
 
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)
 
What we fail to see and hear; is that every time “Jesus said,” is recorded in the Bible, it is the Spirit of Christ that was coming forth out of his mouth! His Words are spirit, and they are life, the new life in Christ. When we get in trouble, is when we listen to man’s word, instead of that which comes straight from the throne of Father. You have to make a choice of who’s words you are going to give heed to; man’s word or that from God Almighty?
 
You have to keep fresh in your heart and mind, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God!
 
2 Peter 1:16-18 For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is me beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. 18 And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. (KJV)
 
Peter is quite clear here, to tell us that he is not a part of those who would deceive the body of Christ. He is quick to tell us that he heard the voice from heaven, that acknowledged the only begotten Son, full of grace and truth. They were not mere man’s words, but Words of power and authority. Are you able to hear what the Spirit is saying unto the “Church”?
 
1 Timothy 4:1-2 Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, 2 speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron, (NKJ)
 
Some will depart from the faith! We read the Word of God, but we do not hear what it is saying to us. There are those who will turn their backs on the Son of God. Not because I say so; but because the Word of God warns us of these things!
 
John, in his epistles warns us of the spirit of antichrist which is already among us. It is already present in the world and deceiving those who will listen to it.
 
1 John 2:22-26 Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son. 23 Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: (but) he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also. 24 Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father. 25 And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life. 26 These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you. (KJV)
 
500 antichristos (an-tee'-khris-tos); from 473 and 5547; an opponent of the Messiah: KJV-- antichrist.
 
Who are the deceiving spirits? What do you think they teach? Or what do you think that they have the people leave out?
 
2 John 1:7 For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. (KJV)
 
4108 planos- deceivers: 1) wandering, roving 2) misleading, leading into error a) a vagabond, a "tramp", an impostor b) a corrupter, a deceiver.
 
The Son of God came that we might have abundant life. The Words that He speaks to us, they are Spirit, and they are life! We have to keep in our hearts and minds, that Jesus Christ’s words to us are Spirit, and they are life! The thief comes with words also; they too are spirits. They bring about death if we give heed to them.
 
This is why Paul tells us what he did. How do people follow deceiving spirits? By listening to their words; by following their teachings!
 
The deceiving spirits leave out the message of the Son that was given! They want you to miss the mystery of the Gospel; the mystery that has been revealed to those who will hear what the Spirit of Christ is saying unto the “Church”.
  
That you may know Him,
In the service of Jesus Christ
Larry Gazelka
  
Word Corner: 3466  musterion- mystery: 1) hidden thing, secret, mystery a) generally mysteries, religious secrets, confided only to the initiated and not to ordinary mortals b) a hidden or secret thing, not obvious to the understanding c) a hidden purpose or counsel; secret will: 1) of men 2) of God: the secret counsels which govern God in dealing with the righteous, which are hidden from ungodly and wicked men but plain to the godly 2) in rabbinic writings, it denotes the mystic or hidden sense: of an Old Testament saying, of an image or form seen in a vision, of a dream.

Good day. Today we are posting the first newsletter in the series The Forgotten Son; there was originally 7 parts to this series but over time Part 4 went missing. We pray that you will allow the Lord to fill in the missing part in your hearts as He ministers unto you as you partake of these newsletters. The Forgotten Son newsletters were written in 1996 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 series. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writings for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1996.

The Forgotten Son!   Isa.9:6        Vol.18 No.26
     Part I
  
Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. (KJV)
 
Have you ever stopped and wondered why the writer Isaiah, in scribing this verse, asked, or should I say stated two separate points? Notice, that he tells us of a child born, and a son that is given. Who, do you think that he is referring to?
 
8705 le- unto;(le); a prefixed (inseparable) preposition; sometimes it appears with the definite article (la-, le-). It means: 1) to, toward; 2) at, in; 3) till, until; 4) in order to, for the purpose of; 5) for, belonging to, with respect to, in regard to, according to.
 
For the purpose of our salvation, a child was born. In order that the sacrifice would be perfect, the Son was given. It is up to us as individuals, to take the time to hear the Word of God and gain understanding of what Father is trying to say to us here.
 
Matthew 1:23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. (KJV)
 
This verse explains how God was manifest in the flesh. (1 Timothy 3:16) The Word, (Christ), formed Jesus of Nazareth in the womb of the virgin. Jesus of Nazareth was the fleshly shell around the Spirit of Christ.
 
1 Timothy 3:16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. (KJV)
 
Have you ever stopped to wonder what the difference between the Son of Man and the Son of God is? Have you taken the time to hear what Father has to say on the subject? You must remember that each of us as individual members of the body of Christ, are responsible for our own salvation. You can not blame, what you did not learn, on anyone but yourself! You have to take the time to study the scriptures; to find and unlock the mystery of the gospel. Then and only then, will you recognize the Son of God!
 
Matthew 22:42-46 Saying, What think ye of Christ? whose son is he? They say unto him, The Son of David. 43 He saith unto them, How then doth David in spirit call him Lord, saying, 44 The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool? 45 If David then call him Lord, how is he his son? 46 And no man was able to answer him a word, neither durst any man from that day forth ask him any more questions. (KJV)
 
The child that was born, was Jesus of Nazareth, the carpenters’ son. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit. We can see this from Acts 10:38, How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power. This all took place from the moment of conception; how else could He lead a life without sin? We also have to keep in mind Romans 8:9, that if any man hath not the Spirit of Christ, he is not of God. So, as we can see and hear, if He was the Son of Man, and the Son of God, He had to have the Spirit of Christ at all times here on earth; or the Word is not true. And we know that God cannot lie!
 
Mark 4:11-14 And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables: 12 That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them. 13 And he said unto them, Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables? 14 The sower soweth the word. (KJV)
 
We, (the Church), have not taken the time to hear and obtain Father’s instructions to us on the mystery of the Gospel. Have you ever even questioned Father on what the mystery is? What was it that Mark was saying that they should not know? What was it that they should see, and yet not perceive? What is it that they hear, and do not understand?
 
Romans 11:25 For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. (KJV)
 
Paul says that we are not to be ignorant of this mystery!
 
50 agnoeo- ignorant; 1) to be ignorant, not to know 2) not to understand, unknown 3) to err or sin through mistake, to be wrong.
 
Take the time to go back and read all of chapter 11 and see how we are grafted into the natural olive tree; even though we are of the wild olive tree. We are grafted in by Christ! It is not of works, lest any man should boast.
 
What is the blindness that has affected Israel? They believe in Jesus! They believe that he was a great prophet! So, to what is their blindness? They do not believe that He was Christ, the Messiah! And because of their unbelief, they are lost, how can it be any different for us?
 
4457 porosis- blindness; 1) the covering with a callous 2) obtrusiveness of mental discernment, dulled perception 3) the mind of one has been blunted; used of stubbornness, obduracy.
 
Didn’t the Lord tell them that He was the Christ? Why would they not hear? Maybe for the same reasons that you and I don’t listen at times too? Take a look at Hebrews the fifth chapter and see what the writer has to say about those who should have been teachers and had to go back and be taught all over again. Why? Because they were dull, or lazy at hearing the Word of God.
 
We are just as stubborn as the children of Israel at times. We will not believe or act upon something, unless everyone else is doing it. We think, for some unknown reason, that if everyone else is doing it, it makes it right.
 
Do those who you listen to, possess the mystery of the faith? Paul tells us, that this is a requirement for those who have an office or position of teaching or leadership in the “Church”. It appears that we only see and hear in part, as it suits us. We do not take the time to hear what the Spirit is saying unto the “Church”.
 
1 Timothy 3:9 Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. (KJV)
 
We forget that faith only comes by stopping all that you are doing, shut off any outside distractions, and hear what Father’s Word has to say to you! Could this be why Paul told Timothy, that at his first answer no man stood with him, but all men forsook him? No one wanted to hear what Paul had to say on the mystery of the Gospel.
 
We have to recognize how it took the Son of man, and the Son of God to bring about the new creation.
 
Ephesians 2:15 Having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace, (NKJ)
 
He, Jesus Christ, became sin for me. Then, when He died, He arose from the dead, the first born of the new creation. It took both the Son of man and the Son of God to bring about the perfect sacrifice; one that was acceptable to Father.
 
It does not matter what everyone else is preaching; what does matter, is what the Word of God has to say. If Noah had followed what the people said, would the ark ever have been completed? Serving God through Jesus Christ has never been, nor will ever be a popular decision with the world.
 
Romans 16:25-27 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, 26 But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith: 27 To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen. (KJV)
 
1 Peter 1:13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; (KJV)
 
Who has this mystery been kept secret from? Did you notice, that it says that it was kept secret, but now is made manifest!
 
5319  phaneroo-manifest; to make manifest or visible or known what has been hidden or unknown, to manifest, whether by words, or deeds, or in any other way a) to make actual and visible, realized b) to make known by teaching c) to become manifest, to be made known d) used of a person; to expose to view, to make manifest, to show oneself, to appear e) to become known, to be plainly recognized, thoroughly understood who and what one is
 
602 apokalupsis-revelation; 1) a laying bear, making naked 2) a disclosure of truth, an instruction a) concerning things before unknown b) used of events by which things or states or persons; hitherto withdrawn from view are made visible to all 3) manifestation, appearance.
 
1 Corinthians 2:7-10 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: 8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. 10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. (KJV)
 
Ephesians 1:9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: (KJV)
 
We fail to see and hear the faithfulness and obedience of the writers of the New Testament. They did not have the New Testament available to them; but had to write down what the Spirit of Christ revealed to them. Do you really think that what they  wrote down was readily received? Do you think that they received much opposition?
 
Do you really understand and appreciate all that the writers of the New Testament went through, to make these writings available to you? In most instances, they too, paid the price of sacrificing their lives in the physical, that you might live spiritually.
 
Ephesians 3:3-5 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, 4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) 5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; (KJV)
 
Have you sought after, and found the mystery of Christ? How do you talk to Father? How do you access the throne? Paul is quite explicit here, to inform us, that when we hear what he has to say to us in his epistles; that we too can understand the mystery of Christ! But we have to take the time to read the Word of God, being led by the Spirit of truth. It is the truth of the Word, that sets us free.
 
Did you notice, that when you read, you are to understand Paul’s insights of this mystery, that was before hidden.
 
John 14:13-14 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.14 If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it. (KJV)
 
We hear most everyone talk about Jesus of Nazareth the Son of man; but very seldom, about Christ, the Son of the Living God. Why is this? Can you give me an answer?
 
Matthew 15:11 Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man. (KJV)
 
Matthew 12:34-37 O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. 35 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)
 
We hear so many say: Father knows my heart! Yes, this is true; Father does know your heart. What we have to recognize, is that Father can only act according to our words. We are created in His image, after His likeness. It is by our words we will be justified, or by our words we will be condemned. The words that come out of our mouth, is what is in our heart; and these are what Father has to act upon.
 
We have to know how to approach the throne of grace in time of need. But there is only one mediator who can do that in my behalf. Do you know who that is?
 
Next week: The Forgotten Son! Part II
 
 
That you may know Him,
In the service of Jesus Christ
Larry Gazelka
 
 
Word Corner: mystery
3466  musterion- 1) hidden thing, secret, mystery a) generally mysteries, religious secrets, confided only to the initiated and not to ordinary mortals b) a hidden or secret thing, not obvious to the understanding c) a hidden purpose or counsel; secret will: 1) of men 2) of God: the secret counsels which govern God in dealing with the righteous, which are hidden from ungodly and wicked men but plain to the godly 2) in rabbinic writings, it denotes the mystic or hidden sense: of an Old Testament saying, of an image or form seen in a vision, of a dream.

Good day. Today we are posting the next newsletter Hidden in Plain Sight! Vol. 26 No. 7 written 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 writings for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the current 2023 year.

Hidden in Plain Sight!
Vol 26 No 7
 
The will of God!
 
For the past seven years, Father and I have been having a conversation on things that are hidden in plain sight. A few weeks back we started a series titled “Love letters to the terminally ill”. If you will recall there in the first few verses of Paul’s letter to the Galatians, some people were able to see and hear Father’s counsel on His will in and for our everyday life.
 
Galatians 1:3-4 Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ, 4 Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:  KJV
 
I am sure some were able to see what the will of God is for them, hidden within these two verses. We should be able to see and hear Father’s counsel for our everyday life as we journey through this world. To be able to see clearly here, one should give pause to recognize who we are for those who are believers. One cannot have blinders on when reading and studying God’s instruction manual for the believer and everyday life, for those who are able to hear and see His Word. This also shows one how much one has missed in the past because of religious tenets, rather than studying to show yourself approved unto God.
 
Matthew 6:9-13 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. KJV
 
How often has one read these verses and failed to hear and see again His counsel for our everyday life, as we journey through this world in this moment of time?
 
Most fail to see and hear here the guidance being given for our communication with our Father. Note how it clearly states that His will be done, in earth (our earthen vessel) as it is in heaven. One must be mindful that at one point in time that there was a rebellion in the kingdom of God, and how He dealt with those who chose not to obey His will. Just as His will was enforced at that time, the same will be in force for those leaving this world.
 
So then, how does one accomplish this journey through this life and stay in accordance with His will? Jesus Christ clearly spoke to us, that He is the way, that He is the truth (His Word is truth), and Christ in one’s life; this is what is essential for one to navigate the strait and narrow path which leads to His kingdom.
 
John 14:6-7 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. 7 If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him. KJV
 
Note, that He is the way, He is the truth, and that NO man can come to the Father, but by Him. That relationship with the Father, is essential for one to maintain their now faith walk with Him. So, are you beginning to see and hear that which has been hidden in plain sight? That it can only be revealed or uncovered by and through Christ Jesus?
 
One must understand what has been accomplished for us by the Son of man (Jesus of Nazareth) and the Son of God (Christ) to bring about reconciliation between God and man. All of this was accomplished at the cross with the death of Jesus of Nazareth, and the grave by Christ paying the price for our sins. Thus, we can then understand why it says clearly, that if any man be in Christ, he is a new creation. (Anything Father has given us forgiveness for, can only be brought to remembrance by the devil. And once we have asked forgiveness, our transgressions are removed as far as the east is from the west. (Psalms 103:12 and Isaiah 43:25))
 
2Corinthians 5:17-18 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; KJV
 
There are no shortcuts. There is no other name given. Jesus Christ has shown us the way, established by the truth of His Word, that will lead one to Father’s kingdom (eternal life). It is only by and through Christ Jesus that one is able to approach the throne of God.
 
Just as Nicodemus came to Jesus Christ at night, acknowledging that He was indeed sent by God, by his observation of the works that He did do. One must remember that Nicodemus was well educated in the Old Testament and knew of the prophecies concerning the Messiah.
 
John 3:2-7 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. 3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. 4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? 5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. KJV
 
Jesus Christ then explains to Nicodemus what is necessary for one to gain entrance into the kingdom of God. Jesus Christ presents to him that which is required to gain entrance into the kingdom of God. Isn’t it interesting how Nicodemus does not challenge the new life in Christ, but rather questions as to how he might gain entrance into his mother’s womb a second time. Two births are required for one to gain entrance into the kingdom of God. One of the water that proceeds one coming out of the mother’s womb, and that which one is born again by the Spirit of Christ. No shortcuts.  No secret societies. No religion or sect will get one entrance into Father’s house. It is only as one is born again by the Spirit of Christ, that they will be able to navigate their way to Father’s house.
 
The answer for salvation is hidden in plain sight. Without being born again one cannot gain entrance into the kingdom of God.
 
Are you confident in where you are headed? Are you able to see clearly the strait and narrow path that Jesus Christ has set for us to follow?
 
That you may know Him,
In the service of Jesus Christ,
Larry Gazekla                                                     Copyright ©, Larry Gazelka 

​Good day. Today we are posting the next newsletter Feeble Footing Vol. 26 No. 6 that reflects on the cost of freedom; spiritually and physically, written 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 writings for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the current 2023 year.

Vol 26 No 6
Feeble Footing
 
Feeble: lacking strength of character.
 
We will take this newsletter away from “Love letters to the terminally ill” because a few weeks back, here in the USA, we celebrated Memorial Day. This day is set aside to remember and honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice and price, to ensure that each citizen would have the ability to live a life free from oppression, with the opportunity to fulfil their dreams in life.
 
Here we are now, a few weeks after that holiday, and few now maintain any sort of national pride to remember daily the sacrifices that those individuals made for that freedom that they have every day of the year. Have they really become so deaf and blind as to what it took, and still takes, to maintain this freedom they take for granted?
 
This year at about the same time, Christians have a day that they celebrate as Pentecost. It seems or appears that the religious people are not so much different than the carnal people who celebrated Memorial Day, because they too are quick to forget the freedom and liberty afforded them by and through Christ Jesus. For a day or two they will act all pious and holy, and then quickly fade into the background until their next “special” day.
 
Romans 16:17-18 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. 18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. KJV
 
How quickly one’s freedoms and liberties can be snatched away from them, or a society, if they are unaware of what these liberties and freedoms are, and the price demanded for them. As Paul alludes to the above in Romans; that by good words and fair speeches they are able to deceive the hearts of the simple or unexpecting. If one does not know the truth, how will they be able to fend off any lies or deceptions? If you are not 100% sure of the doctrine that you have been taught and learned, how shaky or unstable will the ground beneath your feet be? {Ephesians 6:15}
 
In the gospels we are counseled, that our relationship with the Father should be by and through Christ Jesus, and that this relationship should be sought after and treasured as the pearl of great price. {Matthew 13:46} How the person discovered the worth and value of this obtained gift, gave his all to obtain and retain this great and precious gift.
 
Mark 4:11-14 And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables: 12 That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them.13 And he said unto them, Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables? 14 The Sower soweth the word. KJV
 
What one needs to keep in mind here, is that the Word clearly tells us that if one does not understand this parable of the Sower, how will understand, and comprehend the rest of the parables?
 
Unto YOU, it is given to KNOW the mystery of the kingdom of God! Just as we discussed earlier, the freedom that we have here in the USA, that when it is taken for granted and no longer valued as the pearl of great price, how quickly can it be taken or snatched away? How quickly then can this freedom be lost or forfeited?
 
Note also in the above scripture concerning the Sower, that if YOU do NOT understand this parable, how can you know all of the other parables that He gave?
 
Philippians 3:17-19 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. 18 (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things. KJV
 
One must Know where they are going. It is a strait and narrow path into His kingdom, and few be there that find it. If one is not attentive to His Word all of the time, how easily can one stray from this path?
 
Luke 17:1-2 Then said he unto the disciples, it is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come! 2 It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones. KJV
 
By your words you are justified, or by your words you are condemned. Your words, do they speak the truth? Or do they present another version of the word? Unto you it is given to KNOW the mystery of the kingdom of God! Do you know?
 
That you may know Him,
In the service of Jesus Christ,
Larry Gazelka
 
Copyright ©, Larry Gazelka