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1 Corinthians 12:1-7 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. (2) Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led. (3) Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. (4) Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. (5) And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. (6) And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. (7) But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. (KJV)
First of all I would like to make note of the fact that the word ‘gifts’ in verse 1&4 are both added words, they were not a part of the original text. The reason this is mentioned is because the key to all these verses is that everything that takes place in this context is a manifestation of the Spirit, which is singular. While many think they have only a certain gift that God can work through them, the truth is that it is similar to our bodies, we all have the body parts to make our bodies function, and growing up it was just a matter of developing and learning how to use them, whether it be walking, talking, or any other function. It is up to us as individuals to find out what our calling is, where we fit in the body of Christ and allowing the Spirit of God to work and manifest through us as He chooses, and not as we think we should be dictating it. 1 Corinthians 12:8-11 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; (9) To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; (10) To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: (11) But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. (KJV) Now rather than limit the working of God through its members by thinking that to only one member is given wisdom, or to another any other endowment, which is what the word gifts refers to in Verse:9, Paul is showing how the Spirit can manifest through the members of the body to provide what is needed for each situation. Think of it this way, if you broke your arm and went to the hospital it would not do the attending physician much good to be working on your leg or checking your ears. So when there is a need in the body of Christ, and we are dealing with someone seeking a spiritual answer to their need, it is a matter of letting the Spirit have its way and manifest the answer that is needed for each and every individual situation we will encounter. While some may be more developed in certain areas of their walk, again like with children growing up, some learn to talk or walk quicker than others, all the workings of the Spirit are similar in the fact that once you received this Spirit within you, all the things in the above verses are available to those that are a willing vessel and allow God work through them. Although some think they can determine ahead of time how the Spirit is going to operate, say for instance those that claim they are going to have a special healing service, or if you show up on Sunday there will be miracles, the simple truth be known is that those that are truly operating in Christ will keep themselves out of the way and allow Him to have His way. 1 Corinthians 12:12-14 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. (13) For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. (14) For the body is not one member, but many. (KJV) Remember, we are now talking about a Spiritual body of believers; so in order to be a part of it one has to be baptized Spiritually, immersed in the living waters of Christ, to become a part of as well as remain an effective working member of it. It is important now for you to find your place in the body of Christ and to learn to function the way the Lord intended for you to, and not what you have seen others do. Romans 12:4-7 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: (5) So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. (6) Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; (7) Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; (KJV) Strong’s definition for gifts: 5486 charisma (khar'-is-mah); from 5483; a (divine) gratuity, i.e. deliverance (from danger or passion); (specifically) a (spiritual) endowment, i.e. (subjectively) religious qualification, or (objectively) miraculous faculty: KJV-- (free) gift. When we see the word ‘gifts’ it is referring to a free gift (Christ), God having sent His only Son on our behalf; as well as a qualification of where is the Lord asking us to operate in His body. So whatever your calling, whatever place the Lord is asking you to serve in, it’s learning who you are in Christ and how you can most effectively serve Him. So until you know and are not just guessing it is best for you to wait on Him until you are sure how He operates. Many people try to dictate to God how He is going to operate, and what their place in the body is rather than let Him have His way and allow His purpose to manifest through them. Ephesians 4:7-12 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. (8) Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. (9) (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? (10) He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.) (11) And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; (12) For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: (KJV) Everything we talked about today is a result of the gift of Christ, the manifestation of His Spirit which is given for us to profit in. The gifts He gave unto men is manifested in the people mentioned in Verse 11, those that have answered their calling and are now working to edify the body of Christ, to teach them who they are in Christ. John 4:10-11 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. (11) The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water? (KJV) God’s gift to mankind is Christ, and those that have answered His call and are working on His behalf will know their place in the body, and will be ready to provide the Spiritual answer to all that would ask of the hope within them, as we see in the above verses. God gave us the good and perfect gift from above. Now will you take the time to read the instructions and learn how it operates for yourself? After all, you are now in a new realm. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Isaiah 55:1-3 Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. (2) Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. (3) Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. (KJV)
Salvation is truly a free gift; the good and perfect gift which came down from above in the form of Jesus Christ the Son of God who came to bring reconciliation between God and mankind. While the world is constantly peddling its goods to people, and spicing up its ads with the offer of a free gift included, in the end the buyer ends up footing the bill, it’s just disguised somewhere in the fine print. The Lord who provided a free gift to all mankind having paid the price by His own sacrifice has now asked us to receive this gift freely and distribute it that way also. Mankind may play favorites especially with the rich, but God’s word is available to all, and should be made available by those that have been called to teach and preach without a price tag. Now that doesn’t mean that if you are getting fed somewhere and the Lord asks you to help support the cause, that you ignore Him; but the key is knowing when the Lord is asking and not when these fat cat preachers are begging the congregation with their giving messages. Those that are operating in the liberty of Christ will be preaching messages that are building up the people and showing them who they are in Christ. Those that haven’t been set free and are still more concerned with the treasures and upkeep of this life will center their sermons around the upkeep of their ministry and their works, not on the ministry and work the Lord has done for them. Luke 16:19-25 There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day: (20) And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, (21) And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. (22) And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; (23) And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. (24) And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. (25) But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented. (KJV) When looking at this example it parallels what I see going on today in the so called churches and with many of its worldly preachers. Because they have spent so much time and effort on their own upkeep, which many of them do on the backs of others instead of giving the congregation the meat of the word of God, they just end up with crummy self serving doctrines. Those that had come to their organizations seeking the Lord ended up with nothing less than watered down doctrines and a few crumbs, while those that should have been giving them the bread of life were more concerned with collecting the bread from the congregation. As we see the end result, with what measure they gave was measured back to them, having chosen the riches of this world over the eternal riches of the Lord. If you find you are being bombarded with endless sermons that focus more on giving and supporting the organization rather than focusing on the spiritual needs of the congregation, it may be time to move on if you truly desire to grow in the Lord. And by the way, whose lame brain idea was it to do these stupid telethons, especially this stuff I see on TV? I don’t care who they are or who they think they are, the last time I looked the Lord went into the temple with a three-fold cord and cast those cheap hucksters out. It was the devil that invited them back in to set up their cheap carnival side show acts, and its people that don’t spend enough time in the word of God that support this junk and will also be held accountable for doing so. Oh, they may promise you liberty but the truth is they are the servants of corruption because of the fact that they have sold out themselves, and have been overcome by their own desires, and are now brought into bondage of them. Just because they have sold out doesn’t mean you have to support them in their folly. Many of these people have taken the calling of God and then added their own interpretation to it and have created a monster, thinking bigger is better, the more the merrier. Just because they haven’t lived within the means God had intended doesn’t mean it is up to you to feed their monster which is just a manifestation of their inflated egos. Matthew 23:16-23 Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor! (17) Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold? (18) And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty. (19) Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift? (20) Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon. (21) And whoso shall swear by the temple, sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth therein. (22) And he that shall swear by heaven, sweareth by the throne of God, and by him that sitteth thereon. (23) Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. (KJV) Basically what they are saying here is the priority has been misconstrued, putting the cart before the horse. Today I see and hear a lot of doctrines that have the people sitting in a cart, getting what comes out the backside of the horse as well. Instead of being more concerned with the weightier matters, faith, mercy and righteous judgment, they are more concerned with their commitment to giving and supporting the temple. They are willing to overlook spiritual matters, it’s the gold they are concentrating on and holding the people to. It doesn’t matter to them if you don’t spend time in the word of God or grow in the things of the Lord, that seems to be the least of their concerns, but don’t you dare miss tithing or that’s when they claim you will suffer the wrath of God. Everything to these people and their fallen nature’s is center on giving, which is why they twist the scriptures and sermons to make it look like God is more concerned with it as well. Again it is important and your obligation is to support wherever you are being fed, but when the outward temple becomes more of a priority than feeding the inward one, then it may be time to rethink and pray about moving on. Matthew 23:24-26 Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel. (25) Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess. (26) Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also. (KJV) God is more concerned with the inside rather than the outward appearances. Now it is up to you to discern and rightly divide the truth so that you too can freely receive the gift of God and freely distribute it as well. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 3:16-17 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (17) For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. (KJV)
Ever hear the term ‘God’s gift to mankind’? Though many have laid claim to this title, the truth be known, the perfect gift from above came to us and was manifest in the life of Jesus Christ so that we no longer would have to perish in our sin but come to an understanding of everlasting life. God sent His Son not to point the finger at mankind, and threaten them with eternal condemnation, but rather to teach us the love of God, and how to establish a relationship with our heavenly Father based on love and affection for Him. A perfect love, which means mature, is based on trust and communication, not one of fear and doubt. Instead of always wondering what are we doing wrong, or how long before the Lord comes down on us with His wrath, we should be establishing our relationship with God in love and commitment, moving forward in an understanding of His love for us which is unconditional. Of course if you know in your heart you haven’t done all to stand fast in your walk by taking the time to make our Lord a priority, taking time in His word, then you can expect Him to bring the correction which He does in love; doing what is needed for your benefit. 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. (2) And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. (3) And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. (KJV) Chapter 13 here can be referred to as an inventory list describing the love of God and how to operate in it. As you go down the list, one can do a personal inventory of what their true motives are for serving the Lord, and what it will take to please Him. This list basically separates the motives of the heart, detailing the difference between what man considers love, and what the Lord describes as His true love. There are those that can speak of earthly things, and heavenly things as well, but without doing it from the heart with the motive of love they are like listening to someone who doesn’t know how to play an instrument, it will be a lot of noise without any substance. I think of the times in my life when I have picked up a guitar and tried strumming it, though there is a sound coming forth from it, and I was trying to play a song, it was nothing discernable and certainly not very edifying. The same holds true with many preachers who do not know the love of God, but rather a life of ministry work is more of an occupation than a loving commitment to the Lord and His congregation. The more one pursues this work as an occupation the more they will try to build up themselves rather than the people. So no matter how hard they try, and all the good works they claim to be doing, without the love of God their motives will be wrong and of no profit. Philippians 1:15-18 Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will: (16) The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds: (17) But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel. (18) What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice. (KJV) Paul was a true apostle of our Lord because He understood the love of God, and was more concerned in building up the people rather than a personal following. Paul rejoiced in the fact that Christ, the Son of God, was being preached and that people were coming to an understanding of the mystery of the gospel through His name. However, he could see how there was strife and contentions within the early churches, and how some had mistaken their calling, thinking it would impress the Lord if they could gather numbers and a big following. Today we see the motive and mindset of man, and how it has manifested more into making merchandise of the people rather than showing them how to be more Christ like, and experiencing the love of God. Those that truly know and have come to an understanding of the love of God will preach the truth that will set the people free, without concern for their own welfare; being more concerned with the spiritual, and not the physical. So what is your motive for serving our Lord, is it because of the love that is being shed abroad in your heart, or is it something else that is more self serving than being a servant? Matthew 6:1-4 Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. (2) Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. (3) But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: (4) That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. (KJV) Are you looking to be seen of men? Then you have your reward which will only be temporary. Are you only concerned with what our Father sees and asks of you? Then you will have an eternal reward despite what man may think of you. Having watched a big name TV ministry doing one of their endless telethons and infomercials that are nothing more than doing their alms before men, you see how mankind misses the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ by trying to lower God to mans’ standards of marketing and advertising. In fact it is quite fitting that they use the number 700 to identify their ministry, which is about how many money pitches and distortions of the truth one gets per hour. How much more ungodly can it get when only those that give the most money are elevated and given special attention and consideration, while the others are ignored. For the love of God, how did this marketing mindset, and bigger is better attitude, ever sneak past the Christians, and allowed access to the airwaves? Can the blind lead the blind without ending up in a ditch? Take off your blinders Church and let God be true. Just because someone says it’s ok, and they find a bunch of puppets to agree with them, doesn’t mean God approves of this nonsense. James 2:1-5 My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. (2) For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; (3) And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: (4) Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts? (5) Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? (KJV) Thank God His love is based on the inward motives and not the outward, because I know for myself that I am a complete failure according to my works. God’s love is unconditional, a perfect love, and it is not based on the outward but the inward motive of the heart. So if there is a willingness and obedience, if you truly have a love for our Father, then you can expect to be a partaker of His love which is based upon what is in the heart, and not your wallet. God bless and don’t be taken in by these cheap hucksters who would sell their soul for a buck. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Isaiah 9:6-7 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. (7) Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. (KJV)
There is still only one gift given that will bring life to the spirit and bring forth an everlasting joy and peace to those that receive it. Do you know the Son that is given to us so that you can reap this bountiful unending reward of joy and peace to all that know how to operate in His realm? 1 Corinthians 1:4-9 I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ; (5) That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge; (6) Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: (7) So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ: (8) Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. (9) God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. (KJV) Jesus was the child born of the flesh, the vessel God used to house His gift from above, Christ the Son of the living God. Those that receive this gift and have knowledge of His Son given, will be able to walk in the grace of God and give you an utterance of this testimony which is being confirmed within those that continue in this fellowship of the gift given by the Father through the Son. 2 Corinthians 4:6-7 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (7) But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. (KJV) This gift has come gift wrapped in the form of an earthen vessel, which is ready to be unwrapped and revealed to those seeking its contents by the Spirit. Many look at the gift of God and see the outward package and the promises of what it can deliver, but never unwrap it and put it to use. Until this gift is revealed personally and put to use being utilized properly the way it was intended, most will walk away and look for something else and neglect the gift God gave to all mankind. John 4:9-14 Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. (10) Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. (11) The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water? (12) Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle? (13) Jesus answered and said unto her, (14) Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. (KJV) Many today still judge by the outward and miss the opportunity to partake of the gift of God that is being presented right in front of them. Many still seek to fulfill the physical need first, leaving the spiritual seed within dehydrated and thirsting for living waters. The gift of God is Christ, the Son within the vessel of Jesus of Nazareth, who was speaking on behalf of God to give this woman access to the gift of life. Are you still looking in the outward to find this gift, or will you seek within the realm of God for His living waters which quench our spiritual thirst? Do you know the voice of God and who it is you are getting your instructions from today so that you can effectively access this gift and utilize it correctly, or are you like many running to and fro to a bunch of dry polluted stagnant wells that are drawing the life out of the believer rather than drawing them nearer to the living well of life? Life is a gift, that’s why they call it the present. So how are you presenting His gift? Are you showing others how to unwrap it and reveal its inward contents? Acts 4:8-12 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, (9) If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; (10) Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. (11) This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. (12) Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (KJV) Peter being filled with the Holy Ghost was able to demonstrate this gift, having seen an impotent man made whole. Though mankind has put many labels on the gift of God and wrapped it up in many colorful and different packages, there is still only one name given and no other way to access this gift except by the name of Jesus Christ. So try and try as mankind will, no matter how many times they try to go to the well of life they will come away empty and thirsty. The only way one can tap into this gift, the well of eternal life, is with an eternal name that will reveal its contents and allow you to drink freely. 1 Peter 4:10-11 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. (11) If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. (KJV) Remember how you received this gift by hearing and not by works? As you minister this gift of eternal life, it is only by the ability that God has given so that you can see His results. There is a well of life springing forth from within you, and the only way you can tap into this giver of life is through His Son Jesus Christ; God’s true gift given to all mankind. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Proverbs 2:1-5 My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; (2) So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; (3) Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; (4) If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; (5) Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. (KJV)
To understand this gift we have been given, it is important to know where it came from and what it takes to keep it functional. The more you understand the gift of life, and what the rewards are, the more you will appreciate it. As diligent as many are to pursue the things of this life, the riches and wealth of man, how much greater treasures are there for the taking for those that seek the things of God. Knowing where to look and how to find these answers is vital if one wishes to continue in a loving, long lasting relationship with the Father, knowing all that has been done on your behalf so you can partake of this gift. John 4:10 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. (KJV) If you knew you had a treasure buried in your back yard, how long would it before your yard would be dug up and searched thoroughly. Now knowing you have a treasure in heaven, how thoroughly have you sought out your spiritual provisions? You have access to the Lord this day, and knowing the gift of God, are you seeking the living spiritual water of life, or are you like the Samaritan woman who’s first thought was to seek the physical? John 4:13-14 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: (14) But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. (KJV) As we read further in this chapter we see the Lord clarifying the difference between the physical and spiritual. One will satisfy and bring life; the other will temporarily quench the thirst of the flesh. When you come to the Lord, what is your motivation and which water are you seeking to find? Living eternal waters which will bring life to our spirit, or is your first thought to satisfy your physical thirst? Granted it is vital that our bodies have water to survive, without which you could die from dehydration, so how much greater is the spiritual need, and how deep are you willing to dig your well of life to find living waters? John 6:26-27 Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. (27) Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. (KJV) Many seek the Lord for the wrong reasons, then give up when things don’t go the way they thought they should. If your motives aren’t right, you won’t follow through with your commitment with God, but rather you will end up bailing out in time of trial. Like with a marriage, if it is done for any other motive than love you will eventually end up in divorce. Although some marry for financial reasons, once the money dries up, so does the commitment. Many seek the Lord for the same reason, looking for God to help advance them in this life, rather than seeking what is best for their spiritual life. So when persecution or affliction arises for the Words sake, they are offended and fall away. Many judge by the outward and not the inward; so if the outward doesn’t go the way they want, neither are they willing to go the way they should. Proverbs 3:13-15 Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. (14) For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. (15) She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her. (KJV) For those that have truly tasted the things of God, the joy, peace, confidence, as well as the freedom from fear and doubt, there is nothing that can be compared to it, it is not something that one can purchase. As high a regard that man gives to silver and gold, of how much greater wealth is the treasure we have access to in heaven, a gift of eternal life to those that seek to operate in the wisdom and knowledge of God, walking by faith and not sight, or what we used to perceive as being of high value? How much effort are you putting forth to find the things of God? What is your motive for finding them? Is it truly to feed and satisfy the spirit, or is it a false front to try and promote the things of this life? A half hearted effort with the wrong motives in a marriage will end up in divorce. The same holds true with your spiritual walk; eventually you will end up cheating on the Lord as well looking for something else to fill the void in your heart. Acts 8:20-22 But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. (21) Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. (22) Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. (KJV) There was a man named Simon in the book of Acts who wanted to imitate the disciples, and figured he could buy his way into the kingdom. Today we still have many Simons out there who claim the more money you put up the closer you will be to God. But just because Simon says, doesn’t mean it is so. Don’t be taken in by those that think not only can the kingdom be bought, but that the more you give the more you will get back, thus making you rich. Someone’s going to get rich all right, but it won’t be you, especially if you limit God and think that He only rewards His people with worldly riches. The reason many don’t establish a loving long lasting relationship with the Lord is simply because the motives of their heart are not right. Those that respond to God’s message of love, with the pure motive of love, will be finders of eternal life, and keepers of His promise to the end. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (KJV)
The wages for a life of sin is death, separation from our Father for eternity. It’s literally a hell of a reward for all those that serve the devil and spend their lives to satisfy their own desires of the flesh and neglecting the will of our Father. Salvation is actually a gift given to all mankind, sent forth from our Father and manifested to us by His Son, to deliver us from all our destructions. Now the question each and every one of us needs to answer is this; have we received this gift or have we neglected it and are looking elsewhere for our answer? John 1:10-12 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. (11) He came unto his own, and his own received him not. (12) But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: (KJV) What would it be like for you parents, to be able to have everything a child would need to grow up healthy and mature, only to watch them neglect your gift of love, and end up malnourished and sick? For those that live in cold climates, to have coats and all the winter clothing that is needed for the child, just to watch them walk out the door and not be dressed for the weather. And yet with all that our Father has done for his people, for their benefit, only to see how few receive the gift and walk in the spiritual provisions He has provided for His children; how it must hurt Him as well to see His people walk out into a cold dark world not properly dressed and fed either. The plan is established, the gift given, His spirit poured out on all mankind, now a matter of who is willing to receive it and walk in the blessings afforded through this gift. Ephesians 2:8-10 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: (9) Not of works, lest any man should boast. (10) For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. (KJV) There is a perfect plan of salvation made just for you; a path of good works which were drawn up like a blueprint for you to follow after; a free gift for any and all that would receive it this day. We are His workmanship; and what a piece of work we all are, and can continue to be, if we allow Him to have His way with us. Some claim that salvation is not something we can earn and therefore it is something we cannot lose. However, like with any gift, some have taken their gift and exchanged it for something else more appealing to the lower nature, and not to the new nature we received in Christ. Romans 1:22-25 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, (23) And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. (24) Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: (25) Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. (KJV) The word ‘changed’ actually means to exchange. So instead of being content with what the Lord has provided, they look elsewhere for their answer, and just like clockwork the enemy is ready and waiting to give them a cheap imitation of what the real gift can provide. So instead of letting the truth set them free, they are overcome again with the subtle doctrines of man and end up worshipping and serving their own lusts and desires, rather than seeking the things of God and what He desires for them. It’s not that the devil has the power to pull anyone out of the kingdom, but rather uses slick underhanded methods to try and talk you out of it, and get you to settle for a far less inferior plan, which in many cases gives the glory to man and not to God. Don’t be taken in by these larger than life ministers who claim they are God’s gift to mankind. In many cases what appears to be too good to be true usually is. 1 Timothy 4:14-16 Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. (15) Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. (16) Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee. (KJV) How would you like it if you gave a gift to someone close to you, something that was of great value, only to show up one day at their house and find it discarded and thrown in the garbage? If you really knew the true value of what you have been given and what you have access to, and the sacrifice it took to get you this gift, you would give yourself wholly to it as well, not holding back, but receiving all that is yours as well as sharing it with all you come in contact with. 1 Peter 4:10-11 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. (11) If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. (KJV) As with any gift it comes with an instruction manual so that you can keep it operational and not void the warranty. This is a free gift given to you so that you can partake of our Lord’s divine nature and continue to minister words of life to those that are willing to let Him speak through you. So what have you done with this gift? Is it alive and real today, or is it a discarded memory of something many talk of, but not walk in? Ephesians 4:7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. (KJV) You have been given the same measure of faith that Jesus Christ was given when He walked this planet. He considers His church the pearl of great price and was willing to die on our behalf. So today, are you holding fast to what is rightfully yours, or have you neglected it? Some day we will have to give an account of what we have done with this gift, and I pray that you will be able to measure up and not be discarded as well. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. 8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; 9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; 10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: 11 But all these work that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. (KJV)
Today the Lord is working through His people in different ways, supplying all our need as He sees fit. Today He is working through one of His people with a word of wisdom, to another encouragement in faith is needed, or a healing needs to take place. Whatever way He chooses to manifest His gift of the Spirit it is because there are a few who have allowed Him to work in and through them. Are you willing to take hold of what is rightfully yours for the taking, or are you going to let someone else dictate salvation to you instead? John 1:16-17 And of his fullness have all we received, and grace for grace. 17 For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. (KJV) When you go back through the scriptures you see the term fullness mentioned. Just like when God gave us of His spirit, the Bible says we are filled with the Spirit to the brim. The only thing lacking is our carnal minds that get in the way and limit the Lord in working in and through us. So let’s get self out of the way and see what happens. Colossians 2:8-10 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. 9 For in him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. 10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: (KJV) With all that has been made available to you today have you made it a priority to seek out what is there for the taking? Ephesians 3:19-20 And to know the love of Christ, which passes knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness 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 works in us, (KJV) How about turning the key, revving up the engine, and seeing where this thing will take you today. According to the Word it can go to places out of this world. 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, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. (KJV) Thoroughly furnished, doesn’t sound like something or someone that is lacking does it? Simply put, the Lord has done His part to make this happen, now the question becomes will you do yours and let him? Matthew 16:18-19 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 shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. (KJV) You have the keys, now will you let the Lord loose on your behalf or will you bind Him with your unbelief? Death and life are in the power of your tongue. 1 Corinthians 12:7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. (KJV) What you see in this chapter is yours for the taking Church, so don’t take it for granted or let anyone talk you out of it. God bless and grab hold of the total package today. 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which works all in all. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. (KJV)
If you notice above, God, Lord, and Spirit are all mentioned as one. The differences or diversities we see being mentioned all refer to His people and how He is working through them. Psalm 78:40-42 How oft did they provoke him in the wilderness, and grieve him in the desert! 41 Yea, they turned back and tempted God, and limited the Holy One of Israel. 42 They remembered not his hand, nor the day when he delivered them from the enemy. (KJV) The beginning of 1 Corinthians 12 talks about ignorance of things in the Spirit. As we see in Psalms the children of Israel operated in ignorance because they limited God from working on their behalf. My prayer for the Church today is that they don’t limit God, thinking that He only works through special people and not you. Acts 10:38-39 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. 39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: (KJV) You too were Spiritually anointed when you accepted Christ into your heart. Those same healings we see illustrated throughout the Bible are still in play today. The reason many are not healthy is because they have ignored the counsel of the Lord and are willing to settle for sickness and diseases. I John 2:26-28 These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you. 27 But the anointing which ye have received of him abides in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teaches you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. 28 And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. (KJV) Do notice that this anointing is in you and able to teach you how to operate in the realm of the Spirit. The words that you speak should be Spirit and life, and when they are, then all those things we have been looking at in 1 Corinthians 12 will be working in you too. Your confidence is built on the fact that greater is He that is within you, than that old doubting person you used to be. 2 Peter 1:3-4 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: 4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. (KJV) The word of God is living and powerful and is inside of you! Are you letting it loose so that it can work on your behalf, or are you binding the Lord with words of doubt and fear? The Lord has given us access to all things, not just some of them. So please grab hold of what He died to give you. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 12:7-9 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. 8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; 9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; (KJV)
What Paul is describing above is not limitations on the people, rather he is giving a brief overview on how our Lord is working through different members of the body. Just like at the hospital when a patient is brought in, they attend to the area that is in need of immediate service. If the foot is broken you are not going to spend too much time examining the hands are you? 1 Corinthians 12:10-11 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: 11 But all these work that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. (KJV) What you see illustrated above are people who are willing and obedient, who have learned to operate in the realm of the Spirit. You see what can manifest if you allow the Lord to have His way and not limit Him. It certainly doesn’t mean that one person only receives one gift; it just shows us how the Lord would like to operate through His people if they are willing. Romans 12:2-3 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. 3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith (KJV) God does not play favorites, what He gives to one He gives to all. The difference comes in those that don’t get misled by man, but find the change that comes from the Lord. You were given access to the same measure of faith as Jesus Christ, so whatever was manifest through Him should be in you as well. Romans 12:4-5 For as we have many members in one body and all members have not the same office: 5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one member’s one of another. (KJV) Maybe the reason you haven’t been seeing the Spirit manifest through you is because you have spent too much time conforming yourself to others instead of letting the Lord have His way through you. The Lord would definitely like to work in and through you; however, you need to find your place in His body of believers for that to happen. Romans 12:6-8 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; 7 Or ministry let us wait on our ministering: or he that teaches, on teaching; 8 Or he that exhorted, on exhortation: he that gives, let him do it with simplicity; he that rules, with diligence; he that shows mercy, with cheerfulness. (KJV) Not everyone is called to be an apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, or teacher, but whomever these gifts manifest in, you will find that these are people who know who they are in Christ, those who have let Him build them up so that they can show us how we too can be mature Christians. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Ephesians 4:11-13 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ: (KJV)
We have been talking about the term gift or gifts, what was given on our behalf. When you think of the term gifts you see it comes in the form of those that in verse 11 know who they are in Christ, and then in turn show others what was given. These are people that have chosen not to limit the Lord, but have learned what was provided to them when they accepted salvation. You will not grow and mature until you learn these things for yourself. 1 Corinthians12:4-6 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which works all in all. (KJV) Every person is unique and different in who they are and what they’re called to. The reason the church is so stale and lifeless at times is because many spend too much time emulating others rather than allowing their own personalities of who they really are to manifest. Many get a bit robotic and we see more assembly line Christians than those that truly find their calling in the body of Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. (KJV) Please take note of verse 7 so that you don’t have to operate in the ignorance of many who think they only received some of the gift of the Spirit and not the whole package. Everything that is written in this chapter deals with Spiritual things, things that are yours for the taking. Ephesians 1:2-4 Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: (KJV) Please take note of that big little word in verse 3, ‘all’; as well, ‘us’ is another big one because it doesn’t limit anyone access to what the Lord provided for His people and the reason God sent the Son. Anything less than all is unacceptable and not an area you should settle for. I John 2:20-21 But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things. 21 I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth. (KJV) Every day that we are in this world should be a learning process, where we go from relying on our outward senses to the inward ones. Every day you should be growing and learning who you are in Christ and all that He has given you access to. Don’t ever limit the Lord and tell Him what He can’t do because He is willing and able to do above and beyond what you could have ever asked or thought of. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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