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Ephesians 4:11-15 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: (3) 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 fulness of Christ: (14) That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; (15) But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: (KJV)
There are some today that claim there are no more apostles and prophets, and no more miracles because they ceased after the disciples and the work they accomplished. But if you look at the above verses we see they are given and called by God for the work of the ministry to help build up the body of Christ and teach them how to grow and mature in Him. So simply put, as long as there is a body of believers in Christ, and as long as there is a ministry work being done, then nothing could be further from the truth than to think that there are no more apostles and prophets out there still answering the call. The reason people preach this nonsense is because they haven’t answered their own call to the ministry work, and have limited God by what others tell them and not what the spirit of God would be speaking. Many think of a prophet as one that just speaks of future events or someone the Lord has worked a miracle through; and because they don’t see it for themselves then they think it doesn’t work for others. Matthew 16:1-4 The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven. (2) He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. (3) And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? (4) A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed. (KJV) The Lord Himself was confronted with those that limited the things of God by the outward, not realizing the plan of salvation that would be manifested to the believers by an inward change. Many today are looking for some outward sign and miracle, and fall short of their calling because they miss the greatest miracle of all, which is salvation, and being able to be born again into the realm of the Spirit. Things that were previously hidden and unable to be understood by man are now being unveiled and revealed to them through the Spirit, and the miracle of this new life and beginning. The Old Testament prophets could only speak as the Holy Spirit came upon them, and delivered the message of a Messiah that God would send for the salvation of the world. The New Testament prophets are the ones that should be teaching the Church the mystery of the gospel, and enlightening them to the Messiah that has come; pointing them in the direction of the spiritual realm, and to quit looking for an outward manifestation or sign. God is still more than capable of miracles; which to us they are awe inspiring but to Him it’s just business as usual. The question is ‘where are you looking for the answer to the mystery of the gospel; will you keep looking for an outward sign or will you seek the inward confirmation that will build a firm foundation for you to stand on’? Luke 17:20-21 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: (21) Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. (KJV) People today still look at Jesus the man and the demonstration of the power of God he allowed to work through him, which was only done by the spirit of Christ within Him. Today many still teach and preach the blessings of God and relate it only to the outward manifestations they can see, totally ignoring all the spiritual blessings we have been blessed with which are in the heavenly places, and can only be found by those that are able to operate within the realm of the Spirit. Matthew 10:7-8 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. (8) Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give. (KJV) Before our conversion we were all spiritually sick. Spiritually we were like the lepers; which when they contracted the disease, had to be separated from others so as not to spread this deadly disease. We have all been raised from the dead spiritually, and are able to walk in a newness of life leaving the old ways and the old man behind us. I am able to cast down every negative imagination of the devil which he would try to mislead me with, by the renewing of my mind so that I can operate with the mind of Christ. With all that is available in the spiritual realm, why are so many still looking for an outward sign in a realm where the Lord said He wouldn’t be found? Freely we have received this gift of Christ and freely we should be distributing it; which is why I don’t understand why so many have put a price tag on the word of God. If one is truly called of God and preaching His word then they will be distributing it freely without fleecing the flock and making merchandise of them. 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) Obviously this mystery that Paul wrote about, ministering to the Church his personal knowledge of Christ, is still a mystery to many which claim there are no more prophets today. As long as there is the Church, the body of believers still left here, there will be those that are still called to this position; the question is, will they answer the call in the Spirit, or will they miss out because they seek the answer in the flesh. Paul found his answer in the realm of the Spirit, and wrote to the Church that is in Christ, the Son of God, that this mystery is only revealed through a personal knowledge in Christ. Ephesians 3:6-10 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel: (7) Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power. (8) Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; (9) And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: (10) To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, (KJV) The answer is in Christ. Those that have been called to His ministry will not limit their calling to what man tries to dictate; rather they will come to a personal knowledge of the mystery of the gospel so that they not only can see for themselves the unsearchable riches in Christ, but continue to teach others and allow the truth in Him to still be in play. The manifold wisdom of God is still available to all that would seek a relationship with the Father; but it can only be accomplished by those that seek to worship Him in spirit and in truth. Don’t limit God, and don’t be taken in by these false doctrines of man that have chosen to limit Him and their own calling, but rather walk by faith and let Him reveal Himself to you. God bless and keep the faith. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Mark 10:26-27 And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved? (27) And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible. (KJV)
The disciples were astonished with this new doctrine our Lord was bringing forth to a fallen world. The things of God and His plan of salvation were being manifested through Jesus Christ; so what was previously hidden and unknown was now available to whosoever would call upon the name of the Lord. Things that were impossible and unachievable by man and his way of thinking are now a reality, and should become a way of life to the believer. What is your vision of salvation today? Is it a clear cut path that you are walking, or are you astonished and bewildered thinking it is impossible for someone like me, and thinking that God only uses special people with special gifts or what some think are super powers? The reality is, it’s the simplicity of the gospel of Christ that many miss and overlook. Because we consider ourselves simple at times we think we get overlooked by God as well, because surely He can find more qualified people than me to use. Remember, and don’t ever forget the message, with God all things are possible and nothing will seem impossible to those that believe. Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. (KJV) Are you a can do person? Do you have a can do attitude and an expectation of victory in your walk, or are you still coming up short of the goal, accepting whatever comes your way rather than letting the Lord have His way, and complete the mission? Do you see things that are impossible to others, and were to you before you were saved, now a reality and a way of life; an expectation that the things of God and His promises are now what you rely on; and you will not accept anything less than His outcome despite what your outward senses try to dictate to you? Will you hold fast your profession of faith without wavering so that you can continue to be a can do person, because of a can do Christ within you? Luke 1:34-38 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? (35) And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. (36) And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. (37) For with God nothing shall be impossible. (38) And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her. (KJV) It is interesting when reading this account of how the angel of God came to Mary to let her know the Lord’s plan for her and how she would be used by Him. When Mary was informed of this plan, to her own carnal thinking and mind it was impossible. However, as we see in verse 38 her answer was, let it be according to the word of God, which was delivered to her through the angel. So how would this account relate to you personally? Were we not barren ourselves at one time spiritually and unable to bring forth life? Once we accepted the Lord and His plan of salvation we too conceived, and a new life was formed within us. ‘Christ in you the hope of glory’ is now residing within the believer as well, so that you too can operate in the power of the Highest, which is ready to spring forth from you to bring new life to a dying world. Even though Mary questioned and wondered how these things could take place, because according to the outward it was impossible, she accepted the word of the Lord and allowed Him to do what was seemingly impossible to man but just another day at the office for the Lord. So how are you responding to the Lord today? Are spending your time trying to analyze things by what the outward is trying to dictate, or are you accepting God to be true no matter what the circumstances are so that you can bring forth new life within you, and receive the results God intended for your situation also? Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (KJV) The only time it becomes mission impossible is when we step out of the realm of faith and start walking by sight, the outward and not the inward vision. Once a person steps out of the realm of faith they start questioning God and begin to waver. Many times in the Old Testament it makes reference to the double hearted which will result in one being double minded and unable to receive the things of God. Once you step back into the realm of doubt and fear the mission is aborted and unable to move forward until you re-enter the realm of faith and get back on God’s turf. You, like Mary, have the same choice. Will you take God at His word, or will you try to analyze things by what the carnal realm dictates and its limitations? Galatians 3:23-24 But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. (24) Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. (KJV) Our justification, our new life, is only revealed and brought forth by faith; our ability to hear the message delivered by Christ and then act on it, and follow through with it, until it accomplishes what is pleasing to God. Before faith became a reality to us we to were shut up and spiritually barren; unable to operate in the power of the Highest realm because we were trying to achieve salvation by old laws and rituals which are now done away in Christ. A new man within us requires a whole new way of thinking and acting. So the less you try to analyze things and figure them out according to your own understanding, the more you will be able to operate in the realm of a higher one. Galatians 4:19-21 My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you, (20) I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice; for I stand in doubt of you. (21) Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law? (KJV) I have heard it said that child bearing is one of the most painful things to endure, and yet one of the most rewarding afterwards. The same holds true in the spiritual realm as well. Sometimes there is pain and travail within us, a tug of war at times, a new life ready to spring forth, but it is being held back by the flesh not willing to let go. The longer one is in labor the more painful and harder it is to endure until they are able to deliver and bring forth a new life. The same holds true with us. The more we hang onto the old things and the old thinking the more painful it becomes; and the more we hang onto these things the more likely we are to have a miscarriage and miss out on the blessing that was intended for our benefit. You have a seed within you, Christ, which needs to be fed and nurtured if you wish to bring forth a new life within you, and watch it grow to maturity. It pained Paul because he watched a new life begin in the people only to see it aborted by them turning back to the old law. They begin in the Spirit and then try to perfect their walk by the flesh; which the Bible says ‘they that are in the flesh cannot please God’. So which realm will you operate in today? And how do you plan on doing those things that are pleasing to God? If it is by your own thinking and the works of the law then it will be mission impossible. But if it is by faith then it will be mission possible; a victorious outcome to all those that believe. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (KJV)
There is something hidden, ready to be revealed in the Spirit, and all the evidence is pointing that way. We have a Father in heaven. But did you know He has an accomplice, someone working with Him, someone who is very vital in solving this mystery? It will take your spiritual senses to solve the case, and bring you into the realm where it takes place. Matthew 11:25-27 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. (26) Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight. (27) All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him. (KJV) No man knows the Son or the Father, unless it is personally revealed to them. You can’t have one without the other, they work in unison together. Ever wonder why there are so many different denominations and so called faiths out there; so much false evidence without substance that misleads and causes confusion? Despite all the different names and titles given to the Father, He has spelled out who He truly is to those that are truly seeking Him, those that desire to worship Him in spirit and in truth. Definition for reveal (from Thayer’s): 601 apokalupto- 1) to uncover, to lay open what has been veiled or covered up, to disclose, to make bare 2) to make known, to make manifest, to disclose what before was unknown 2 Corinthians 3:14-17 But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ. (15) But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. (16) Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away. (17) Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. (KJV) Up to this point there has been something covering the evidence, and blinding the minds of those seeking to find it. Today that same spiritual vail covers the heart and is only taken away in Christ. So despite where the word of God points us to, no matter what labels and titles they try to give to the Father, He is quite clear to let us know that all the evidence is pointing us to Christ, the Son of God; and those that come to a personal knowledge of Him will unlock the mystery of the gospel. Luke 2:25-32 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. (KJV) To this day many still see a child named Jesus. In fact in December every year there are many nativity scenes that depict this. Isn’t it interesting that the one person that was led by the Spirit was able to see the Lord’s Christ; in other words, he was being pointed to something other than the outward appearance of what everyone else saw, a personal revelation brought forth by the Spirit of God. Many in temples today seek their answer to the mystery of the gospel in the outward realm, and miss the clues that are unlocked from within. Colossians 2:2-3 That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; (3) In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. (KJV) Definition for mystery (from Thayer’s): 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: All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hid in Christ. This revelation is the key that will unlock this hidden treasure and allow you to have access to God’s eternal spiritual riches. To have this comfort and assurance, to remove the vail that blinds the heart, one needs to come to a working knowledge of Christ in order to access the Father. It’s a package deal, and you can’t have one without the other. It’s like having a great looking car but no engine underneath the hood; it’s time to open the hood and check beneath the exterior to make sure you have the power to run this race. Galatians 1:11-12 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) All the evidence is pointing to the Father. However, in order to access the Father you have to know His Son. Like Paul wrote, that is when it becomes personal. The plan of salvation was originated in the heavenly realm and manifested to us through the Son; the one mediator between God and man. Unless you are able to see this revelation for yourself, you will not know the Father or His Son, and will find yourself in darkness and confusion. Galatians 1:16-17 To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood: (17) Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus. (KJV) Paul found that the answer to this mystery came straight from the source; and instead of running to man he received the message first hand, which is why the Lord used him to write many of the epistles. Unless you take the time to hear Father first hand, and be willing to let Him reveal Himself to you personally, you will never come to an intimate relationship with Him, but rather the Bible will be just interesting accounts of how God worked in other people’s lives and not yours. When the word of God becomes real and personal, you will find that in your studies you can relate to those who God used in the Bible because you are able to see how it relates to you as well. Similar to reading a mystery novel, you are able to see the clues hidden within, and understand which way the author is pointing to solve this mystery and keep you on the right path. Colossians 1:25-28 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; (26) Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: (27) To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: (28) Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: (KJV) While many run to and fro looking to man to find the answer to this mystery, Paul found that it was within him all the time; and by looking within and accessing the Father through the Son he was able to see what had been hid to the outward man, but revealed to the inward one. All wisdom refers not only to this realm, but a wisdom that is from above, to allow us to see beyond the vail of the flesh into the spiritual; which is how we may present ourselves perfect, mature in Christ Jesus also. Ephesians 3:8-9 Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; (9) And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: (KJV) As we can see again, Paul writes of his conversion and the calling he was asked to fulfill. Paul was well versed in the old law, and how so many were trying to tap into the unsearchable riches of Christ through it and the works of it. Simply put, his calling was to make all men see and be able to partake of this mystery which has been hid from the beginning, but now the answer is ready to be revealed to all those that seek God with a pure heart. It’s a package deal; a two for one special; no man knows who the Father is unless it is revealed to them through the Son. And until you come to a working knowledge and find the answer to this mystery it will continue to be hid (to those that seek anywhere else but in the realm of the Spirit). So grab your spiritual magnifying glass and take a closer look into the word of God, and find out where the evidence is leading you, and get an eyewitness first-hand account into this mystery. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Hebrews 11:1-2 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. (KJV)
Ever watch a detective show where someone shows up at the scene and uses their senses to determine what took place. To unravel a mystery, the clues they look for may be things that are unseen to the naked eye, but revealed with the use of special tools to help them identify the evidence. A microscope can magnify and identify things that were right there all the time but unseen to the naked eye; if properly put to use it can point them in the right direction. Consider yourself a spiritual detective; from this point on you are now assigned to find out the mystery of the gospel, to determine for yourself God’s plan of salvation, and know the difference between the guilty and the innocent. God’s plan of salvation has been hidden to the carnal man, but is ready to be revealed to the spiritual one that is willing to seek Him with all their heart. The word substance means assurance and confidence in the right evidence, which will make it more evident as one matures. 1 Corinthians 2:7-9 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. (KJV) This narrows the list of suspects down and points us in the right direction. Try as so many do, and as we all have been taught prior to our conversion, the answer to this mystery is not in the realm of man. So many have judged things according to their outward sight and vision, which can only give them a partial glimpse at the evidence, and not a complete vision which will keep them on the right trail. 1 Corinthians 2:10-12 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. (11) For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. (12) Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. (KJV) Sometimes it can only take some small piece of evidence to crack the case wide open and unravel the mystery that was hidden. Some piece of evidence that was there all the time, yet overlooked and rejected because it seemed too simple or insignificant; basically the way our Lord was treated when He brought this plan of salvation to mankind. Now as verse 12 points to, this evidence is of a spiritual nature and can only be solved by those that operate and walk by a faith; unseen to the outward eye, but quite evident to the inward. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. (17) For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; (18) While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. (KJV) Don’t give up; keep on the trail, your headed in the right direction. The enemy will try to detour you with lies and deceptions, planting false evidence that looks enticing but leads to a dead end. As long as you keep gathering the evidence on a daily basis you will build a case that is rock solid and will hold up in God’s court. Remember to keep looking in the eternal realm so that you can allow faith (our ability to believe in the message delivered by Christ) to lead and guide you on the path of life that will bring a victorious conclusion to your case. Will you let His spirit be the deciding factor in all your decisions? Or will you follow man made planted evidence left by a thief and a robber? Luke 10:21-24 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight. (22) All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him. (23) And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see: (24) For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them. (KJV) A crime took place thousands of years ago; mankind disobeyed the Creator and was imprisoned in the physical realm and cut off from our spiritual Father. God in turn was longsuffering and kind enough to send us His Son, to give us an eyewitness account of the reconciliation that would be manifest in the spiritual realm. When a detective is assigned to a case the first thing he does is try to find an eyewitness so that he can get an accurate account of what took place, and then begin his investigation from this report. Although the evidence may not always point us in a direction we think looks right, it takes confidence and an assurance in the account of what was given in order to stay on the right path. Where are you looking for your answers? Are you still trying to comprehend things with your own thinking, or are you willing to look into the spiritual realm in order to build a solid case that will not fall apart in time of trial? Galatians 3:1-4 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? (2) This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? (3) Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? (4) Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain. (KJV) Another crime took place some two thousand years ago. God sent us an eyewitness to His kingdom to reveal His plan of salvation, only to have mankind crucify Him for speaking the truth. Today, many still crucify His doctrine and give out false information, pointing people in the wrong direction by claiming to be walking a spiritual path of life, when in reality they are being misled with false carnal evidence. The devil and his workers continue to try to cover up their crimes, leading people further from the truth which was intended to set them free from the prison of sin. Ephesians 1:17-20 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: (18) The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, (19) And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, (20) Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, (KJV) Jesus Christ is your spiritual magnifying glass to magnify the truth in Him, and bring an enlightenment of the wisdom and knowledge of God; which is hid to the carnal man, but quite evident and spiritually eye opening to the inner one. For when the time we ought to be teachers, (for those that have been on the case and have had ample opportunity to solve it and bring an accurate account of God’s plan of salvation to His people with the spiritual evidence that will clear them and set them free) many have ignored His eyewitness account and built their case on flimsy circumstantial evidence that will not hold up. God hid his plan of salvation in plain sight for those that wish to seek Him with their heart and not their carnal mind. Keep looking; continue digging and you will find the clues that will unlock the mystery that eludes mankind, but is ready to be revealed to all that are willing to seek in the realm of the Spirit. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matthew 12:30-32 He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad. (31) 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)
Thayer’s definition for ‘blasphemy’: 989 blasphemos- speaking evil, slanderous, reproachful, railing, abusive Are you totally sure that the word you teach and preach is in line with the Lord? The words that you speak are either spirit and life, or like we saw in the book of James, a deadly poison. Are you living the life the Lord intended for you to live, as well as speaking and presenting His word the way He intended it to be spoken? You wouldn’t want your name and reputation slandered and abused, well neither does the Lord think to highly of seeing the creation slander the Creator. Sin, blasphemy simply put, is a result of unbelief; one chooses not to let God be true and man the liar, but rather twists and turns the scriptures to their own destruction, trying to make them fit their lifestyle in the flesh rather than ministering words that give life to the spirit. Proverbs 16:1-2 The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the LORD. (2) All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits. (KJV) If you plan on giving the Lord’s answer to any that would ask, then you better know it is coming from Him. This takes time and preparation in the word of God and prayer daily so that you will know how to communicate His word effectively. If you don’t know the answer, don’t make one up. If you’re giving scripted answers from a man made doctrine, you may not like the answer the Lord gives you in return when you have to stand before Him and give an account of your words. Man has invented many denominations that look good and sound good to the outward, but the Lord looks at the inward, and that is what will make or break you if you intend on inheriting His reward. 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) Jesus of Nazareth was a man who was led by the spirit of Christ, and brought a message of life and salvation though the Spirit. He set the perfect example for us to follow, being a forerunner for all those that wish to inherit eternal life. Are the words you speak building up or tearing down those around you? Did you know that it is the doctrine of Christ that God gives credence to, and anything else is just a cheap imitation? John 12:48-50 He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day. (49) For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak. (50) And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak. (KJV) What would your life be like if you only spoke what you heard from our Father, bringing a message of hope and salvation to a fallen world? The answer would be unending; as well as some persecution and trials from the enemy. But just think, if you are willing to give His answer to any and all that would ask, most assuredly you also will find the answer you are looking for some day when you have to stand before Him and give an account of what you did with His word. Don’t expect ticker tape parades here on this earth, or if you think you are going to be popular, forget that also. You will find that the more you are willing to share the love of God and His message, the less you will be loved by man. I have to laugh sometimes when people talk about UFOs and aliens coming to this planet and visiting us; and all of the sightings people claim to have seen. We had one alien visit us from heaven two thousand years ago, with a message of love and hope to all mankind, and they ended up crucifying Him. So why would any other ‘being’ want to come here? Which by the way, all this UFO stuff is nothing but a big hoax anyway. Colossians 4:3-6 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: (4) That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. (5) Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. (6) Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. (KJV) To those on the outside of the kingdom of God, the mystery of Christ is something hidden to the carnal man, but ready to be revealed to the spirit. Paul’s prayer was that he could preach and teach this mystery to any and all that he came in contact with; presenting it in a way that would minister to them personally. Our speech should always be with grace. After all, we ourselves were saved by this divine favor (grace) which was granted to us not of works, but by the mercy of God. So we as well need to present this message, not in an overbearing, self righteous holier than thou attitude, but rather understanding where the person is at in their walk, and effectively ministering to them at that point. Paul said he was all things to all people; learning to relate with them where they were at, and being able to hear how he ought to answer every man. Matthew 10:18-20 And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. (19) But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. (20) For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you. (KJV) Just as Paul and many others that have spoken on the Lord’s behalf, the answer he had to give was sometimes before those that were not always looking for truth, and under rather hostile conditions. No matter what the conditions are, or the circumstances surrounding our situation, it is always vital to let the Spirit of our Father speak through us in order to get His results, as well as an eternal inheritance. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 16:7-10 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; it is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. 8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: 9 Of sin, because they believe not on me; 10 Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; (KJV)
Our Lord was announcing that He would be leaving this realm soon, and heading for a better one. Upon His departure He would then send the Comforter so that we could know for ourselves who God is as well as His Son. This revelation would show us personally what God considers to be sin and how to overcome the influence of the enemy who up to this point was having a field day on mankind. Luke 12:8-10 Also I say unto you, whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God: 9 But he that denies me before men shall be denied before the angels of God. 10 And whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but unto him that blasphemes against the Holy Ghost it shall not be forgiven. (KJV) We discussed yesterday a sin which is singular, and that this sin would lead unto death. We see this illustrated above, something I have experienced personally; many will look and point out my faults and shortcomings which does aptly describe my outward or son of man part of me, however, the problem of unbelief for them comes when they come against the doctrine that the Holy Spirit has been revealing to mankind and that would be the doctrine of Christ. By not knowing and having this revelation you will not know personally who the Son of God is, which puts man in a state of denial, or should I say antichrist? Hebrews 6:4-6 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, 5 And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, 6 If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. (KJV) Now think back to our Lord’s crucifixion and how they nailed the Son of man to the cross, and the Lord offering forgiveness to them. We see in the above scriptures another crucifixion taking place, one that involves the Son of God, Christ, in which those that deny Him and His doctrine are looking at the back end of an eternal death sentence. Galatians 1:6-9 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. (KJV) What you see above is the sin unto death, and who it involves. We also see illustrated another crucifixion of the gospel of Christ, and the life that is in this doctrine being crucified and left for dead. Verse 9 is quite clear in the fact that this teaching and lack of knowledge is a sin unto death for those that do not have the revelation of Christ. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 2:14-16 But the natural man receives not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 15 But he that is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. 16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ. (KJV)
Mankind has dreamed up many denominations which are not built on Christ; the only foundation and doctrine God acknowledges as truth. Many of mans’ concoctions are foolish to say the least, because they are operating in a realm that is enmity with God, that being the carnal or natural one. You can break free from that bondage by knowing who you are in Christ and the gospel that removes these spiritual blinders. 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) The Comforter will bring comfort to you when you rely more on the teaching from above and less by what man has tried to pawn off as truth. We have established this week the name which is being revealed to mankind so that we can know for sure who we are getting our gospel from, that being the name which is above all names, Jesus Christ. The job of the Comforter is not only to teach us all things, but to bring to remembrance the answer to be given to any man that would ask us of the hope of the gospel within us. Luke 21:13-15 And it shall turn to you for a testimony. 14 Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer: 15 For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist. (KJV) All those in Christ shall suffer persecution from those that don’t know Christ yet try to justify themselves as being a part of the kingdom of God. I bring this up because I hear many today who get caught up in Bible memorization, in other words they are operating in a realm our Lord said is contrary to His, that being the carnal mind. The peace of God and the answer of the tongue comes to the heart first through the Holy Spirit, and then renews the mind, not the other way around. Mark 13:11-13 But when they shall lead you, and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not you that speak, but the Holy Ghost. 12 Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death. 13 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. (KJV) Today would be a good day to start relying more on the inward man, and less on the outward man. Our Lord would like to speak through His people, if only they would let Him. Proverbs 16:1-3 The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, are from the LORD. 2 All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weighs the spirits. 3 Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. (KJV) All this week we have been on the topic of the mystery of the gospel and what is being revealed from the heart of God to the heart of His people. We see our Lord speaks to the heart first, which then renews the mind. Whose answer are you giving today and do you know for sure who it is coming from? God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Galatians 1:6-8 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. (KJV)
It doesn’t matter who or what source the enemy uses to deceive God’s people, the key is knowing, why is he so against the gospel of Christ? Obviously it is a threat to his kingdom because it shows the people how to be more than conquerors and how to triumph over the power the enemy previously had on them. Ephesians 4:13-16 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: 14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; 15 But speaking the truth in love may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: 16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplies, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, makes increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. (KJV) If you desire to be heading in the right direction, then it would be in your best interest to know who God put as the head of His church. Today I see many advances in the field of prosthetics, where a certain part of the body is cut off and replaced with something that makes it function. However, I have yet to see anyone decapitated having the head replaced, which is what mankind does when they leave out the gospel of Christ; you’re basically left with a dead body. Ephesians 5:23-25 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the savior of the body. 24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. 25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; (KJV) You know, if you desire to move ahead in your walk then it would be in your best interest to know who God put as the head of the Church, Christ the Son of the living God, who is now seated right next to Him to mediate on our behalf. Just a side note, when you decide to get married to a Christian woman, that woman just happens to have a Father who requires you to love her just like Christ does His church. So if things are not too rosy at home, you may want to head to your prayer closet and find out why. 1 Peter 2:5-8 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. 6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Zion 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) The reason many are tripping and falling over this corner stone is because they keep misplacing it and falling for some cheap imitation. Again we see that by leaving Christ out we are leaving the corner stone of His church out also. Keep Christ as your head dearly loved, and know that all things will work for the good to those who love God and do those things that are well pleasing in His sight. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 16:25-26 Now to him that is of power to establish 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: (KJV)
We ended yesterday talking about a doctrine, the only doctrine that will get you home, that being the doctrine of Christ. Today we see Paul, a man God chose to pen most of the epistles making reference to his gospel, and once again we see it involves Christ, which tells us what source this man relied on for truth. This gospel should not be a mystery anymore, at least not within the Church. However, when listening to many today I hear so much emphasis put on the name of Jesus the outward man, and so little being put on the inward one. Could it be something or someone is hiding this truth? 2 Corinthians 4:3-4 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: 4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. (KJV) So what’s the big deal about the mystery of the gospel of Christ? Well it removes the blinders that are hiding the truth and keeping the light from shining in the heart. In other words, that is why we have so many blind leading the blind today and ditching the truth. Again, we see Paul making reference to the doctrine or gospel he knew came from above. 2 Corinthians 4:5-6 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. 6 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. (KJV) Have you ever watched a movie where they keep showing a person of interest, but you can’t see their face? Once the face is revealed towards the end of the movie, it explains the whole plot and shows who this person really is. Time to face facts Church, you need to know who Christ is personally and let Him reveal His gospel to you; so that like Paul, you can claim it for yourself. 2 Corinthians 3:14-16 But their minds were blinded: for until this day remains the same veil untaken away in the reading of the Old Testament; which veil is done away in Christ. 15 But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the veil is upon their heart. 16 Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the veil shall be taken away. (KJV) We are talking about a spiritual veil that keeps spiritual things hidden until it is taken away, which is only removed in Christ. So by leaving Christ out of the teaching, well we will remain blinded to the truth. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. 18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. (KJV) Are you tired of the same old routine where it seems like your life is stale and at a standstill? Why not come clean with our Lord and face the fact that without Him you can do nothing on your own, well at least nothing that would enhance your walk. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Galatians 1:9-10 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. (KJV)
People pleasing, ear tickling preachers just don’t cut it with the Lord. Only the truth will set His people free. Big crowds don’t usually follow someone teaching truth because in these latter days, few are really willing to die to self in order to live. And just because you chose to please God, don’t think it strange if others around you don’t, even if those people are your close family members. Romans 2:28-29 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: 29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God. (KJV) Paul found out himself that God’s chosen people were considered to be part of the heavenly family of Christ not based on their outward lineage, but their spiritual rebirth. This had to hit close to home for him because he was brought up in a strict culture concerning his Jewish heritage. Matthew 10:34-36 Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. 35 For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. 36 And a man's foes shall be they of his own household. (KJV) That sword referenced above is a spiritual one that separates between soul and spirit, or in other words, separates what is of God and what is of man. As you see, this will hit close to home when you find that in order to walk in the new, you may have to leave old things behind. Matthew 10:37-39 He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. 38 And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. 39 He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it. (KJV) If someone has told you that it is an easy path to heaven, they obviously haven’t truly been walking on the one that leads them home. Many have tried to incorporate the old with the new and they just don’t mix (Matthew 9:16-17). Eventually one or the other compromises, which usually ends up to be the Christian trying to appease those that hold more to the flesh than to the Spirit. Matthew 7:13-14 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in there at: 14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. (KJV) The way home is not as wide as many claim, and all roads, or so called paths, don’t end up leading to the same place. At least not the place the Lord intended for His people. Matthew 9:37-38 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few; 38 Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into his harvest. (KJV) The Lord is looking for a few good people, are you available today? God bless dearly loved, and have a very prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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