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1 John 4:1-3 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. (2) Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: (3) And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. (KJV)
Strong’s definition for ‘try’: 1381 dokimazo (dok-im-ad'-zo); from 1384; to test (literally or figuratively); by implication, to approve: KJV-- allow, discern, examine, X like, (ap-) prove, try. Would you like to do a spiritual test to see if it makes the grade; then why not ask a spiritual question? What is one of the first things one asks when they wish to identify someone? How about the name, or what name they go by? A name will give the identity of a person, who they are and what their family lineage is. When you ask someone their name you will find that the first name they give is quite common with mankind, say for instance John. When I think of the name John, different people and personalities come to mind. However, when you ask them the rest of their name then it narrows the field and identifies them with a certain family. When one names the name of Jesus they speak of a common name among mankind, one that many have used. However, when you use the name of Jesus Christ you have now identified a man sent from heaven, a man now seated at the right hand of the Father making intercession for His people. By giving the complete name you now give an accurate complete account of who you are dealing with, the one and only name under heaven whereby we can obtain salvation. You know, this test that is being referred to, was given by another man, one I know passed it himself. Matthew 16:13-15 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? (14) And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. (15) He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? (KJV) As we see in the above verses someone else also gave a test to see who knew the true identity of the Son. As we see all these names were common among mankind, well known by many, yet not what our Lord was looking for. So what is the answer our Lord was revealing to His people and wishes to reveal to His people concerning Himself? Matthew 16:16-18 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. (17) And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. (18) And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. (KJV) There’s that name again, the complete name that gives the whole answer that our Lord was looking for back then and is still looking for today, those that truly wish to serve Him in Spirit and in truth. You know what people, if Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever, then that name, the answer Peter gave, would still hold true today would it not? Furthermore, if you look at the source of where Peter got his response you see it came from a God who cannot lie and who thought it was important enough to make mention of it. A builder wouldn’t dare erect a building without having a firm foundation to build on, so why would God’s people try to build on anything less than what was approved by God? John 17:1-3 These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: (2) As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. (3) And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. (KJV) The Lord’s prayer shortly before His departure from this earth clearly spells out who He is and the one name that will give us eternal life. Again I reiterate that if this name was good enough for Him and got Him access to the heavenly realm as well as an eternal reward, would it not be good enough for you? If our own Lord and Savior used this name to describe Himself then obviously it is meant for us to use as well in order to gain access to the kingdom of God. 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) Interesting to see again what was revealed to Simeon by the Holy Spirit; something that made it complete. While most everyone was looking in the outward realm and saw a child named Jesus, the spirit was revealing Christ the inward man that would bring a spiritual enlightenment to a fallen world. What or who do you see when reading the scriptures, do you just see and acknowledge Jesus of Nazareth, or has God revealed something deeper, beyond the realm of the flesh for you to see also? 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) You know whether it was Peter, Paul, or our Lord Jesus Christ, they all had one thing in common, and one name that identified them with God. They all knew personally for themselves who our Lord is and what name He acknowledges as His. If someone comes your way this day to see where you stand, will you be able to pass the test, or will you end up like many, giving man’s answer to a heavenly question? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Acts 2:36-38 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. (37) Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? (38) Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (KJV)
Jesus of Nazareth was made a little lower than the angels and was born into this realm, having been a partaker of flesh and blood. The Bible states clearly that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God. So after His death, burial and resurrection, He was then glorified by God having accepted the blood sacrifice for the sin of the world and is now elevated to the position of Lord and Christ, the one mediator between God and man, seated at the right hand of the Father making intercession for us. Matthew 26:63-65 But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God. (64) Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven. (65) Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, He hath spoken blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses? behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy. (KJV) When we see the reference to Christ the Son of God as well as the Son of man sitting on the right hand and coming in the clouds, the statement is truth, making reference to what we just saw in Acts 2:36, of these two God has made one new man so making peace, which culminates in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. There is now no condemnation to those that are in Christ; and those that choose to follow the same leading of the Holy Spirit will find an abundance of peace in the new man God is forming within them also. Romans 8:14-17 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. (15) For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. (16) The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: (17) And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. (KJV) We too have access to the same Spirit. And the more we allow this Spirit to bear witness to our spirit, the more we are reminded of our inheritance in Christ, and how we too can receive the reward of inheritance and a glorified body so that we can be together with Him for an eternity. The more you receive this witness from above the more you realize that you are truly a son of God and will start acting like one of His also. So who is it or what is it you are bearing witness with? Because the Bible clearly states that whatsoever is not of faith, the message delivered by Christ, is sin. Without faith and this Spirit bearing witness with our spirit then it is impossible to please God, we end up thieves and robbers trying to access the Father by our flesh and blood carnal thinking which cannot inherit His kingdom. 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) It pained Paul to see the people who were born again into the realm of the Spirit by their simple hearing of faith, only to see them fall back to their old ways by the works of the law. There is a new creation within you, ready to birth and come to life within you so that you can be a new creation in Christ and leave the old man and its old ways dead and buried behind you. So are you nurturing that new man within you by giving it a steady daily dose of the word of God, or are you trying to feed him with old dead, decaying, unhealthy doctrines of man? Colossians 2:8-10 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. (9) For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. (10) And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: (KJV) If any man has not the Spirit of Christ working within them and bearing witness to them of who they are in Christ, then they are none of His. Our Lord Jesus Christ was resurrected from the dead, and having received a glorified body is now a part of the Godhead. Some refer to the Godhead as the trinity; the Bible speaks of three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost, which these three agree in one and operate in unison together as one. We too become one with God through Christ, and we are complete in Him when we receive His witness as truth and let that set us free from the traditions and rudiments of this fallen world. Our Lord Jesus Christ is an active part of this Godhead, having taken His place at the right hand of the Father; and by His sacrifice has prepared a place for us with Him as well. Ephesians 2:11-12 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; (12) That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: (KJV) A Gentile is a reference to an unbeliever, someone outside the realm of faith and not walking in God’s plan of salvation. Some have tried to link the mystery of the gospel as the Jew and Gentile coming together as one, which is based on the outward and not the inward. The mystery of the gospel is Christ in you and me, someone that was on the outside of salvation, an unbeliever who was in the flesh and only knew how to operate in that realm, but who has now been reconciled to God by His Son and His Spirit within us. Ephesians 2:13-16 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. (14) For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; (15) Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; (16) And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: (KJV) It began with the Son of man, a child born unto us Jesus of Nazareth, and it culminated into the Son of God, Christ, the Son given. Of these two God made one new man so that we could be more like Him, Christ like, and continue in the peace of God. Is there new life springing forth in you also, are you letting His Spirit bear witness with your spirit so that you can be one with Him and be that new creation in Christ? You have the mind of Christ; and the more you let Him witness to your mind the more you stay one with Him and in agreement to what God is asking of you today. It’s when we become double minded that we end up unstable and are no longer receiving the things of God. Who’s number one? We are, if we continue to let this new man take over and leave our old nature in the graveyard. God bless. And have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Hebrews 2:9 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man. (KJV)
We discussed yesterday this man named Jesus; a man spoke of and written about throughout the New Testament, a man some claim to be God, or as I have heard it referred to, the God man. Actually we see that Jesus was ‘made’ or rather a created being; something God surly is not and never will be, let alone taking a rank lower than the angels. So who is this Jesus of Nazareth? Knowing who he was will help you to understand who you are, and how to answer your own calling from God. Hebrews 10:4-5 For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins. (5) Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me: (KJV) The fact that the fall of man came through man, it is only fitting that the price that had to be paid to reconcile mankind was the sacrifice of a man, and that came by the obedience and death on the cross of Jesus of Nazareth. This man was anointed with the Holy Ghost and with power so that he could be led by the Spirit and live a life pleasing to God. John 8:28-29 Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things. (29) And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him. (KJV) We see here quite plainly, Jesus referring to himself as the Son of man; a man just like you and I, being taught of our Father how to speak and how to be an example of the believer in doing those things that please the Father. Had he been God, then he would not have had to be taught because he would have already known everything. Just like when we were a child growing up in the realm of the flesh; as newborns we had to grow, mature, and learn the language in order to communicate. The same holds true in the spiritual realm also; as one grows and matures they learn to speak the words of our Father, and to communicate His message more and more as they continue to grow. Jesus of Nazareth was the first born, or should I say the first man to be born again into the realm of the Spirit, so that he could communicate God’s message of salvation to a lost world, and lay down his life to pay the price for the sin of mankind that had been plaguing them. Luke 9:22-24 Saying, The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be slain, and be raised the third day. (23) And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. (24) For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it. (KJV) The Son of man; he too was a partaker of flesh and blood, and took on this same nature that we have to deal with. As a man he had to take up the cross and die to self in order that we could live. We too have to take up our own cross on a daily basis and die to those things which are of the flesh so that the Spirit can take control of our body. We too need to crucify our own affections and lusts so that we can present ourselves to God a living sacrifice, and be resurrected on a daily basis in the realm of the Spirit. Though many still claim Jesus was God, the same God that was with him and working within him, is at work in you also; teaching you on a daily basis how to overcome your lower fallen nature so that you can be a partaker of His divine nature. John 3:1-7 There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: (2) The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. (3) Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. (4) Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? (5) Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. (6) That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. (7) Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. (KJV) If you notice in verse 2, the people would approach Jesus at night because of the persecution, and the fact that they didn’t want to be kicked out of the temple for associating with this man. For those that truly follow the same example set by our Lord, they too will find that the path of life truly is narrow and straight, and few that find it. Our Lord was able to demonstrate the power of God; and the miracles God did through Him were a result of God’s word and its effectiveness by and through His obedience to speak and believe it. The fact that God is no respecter of persons, Jesus of Nazareth also had to partake of the two births; and God through His word spells out the difference, one is of the flesh, and the other is of the Spirit. The Son of man, Jesus of Nazareth, was the first born into this realm of the Spirit. He lived and demonstrated a perfect example for all of us to follow of how a man could live by faith, and overcome the fallen nature of the flesh and its desires. Today God still uses His people to deliver a message of love through those who are willing to follow the same example of our Lord; those who are willing to speak His word no matter what the consequences are, or whatever popular opinion would try to dictate. Hebrews 10:9-12 Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second. (10) By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. (11) And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins: (12) But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; (KJV) We have looked at Jesus the man, the Son of man, and the ministry he fulfilled, as well as the sacrifice that he gave to reconcile man with God. Though God was with this man, as He is with all those that believe, Jesus was not God, nor did he claim to be anymore than you or I would; rather he was the first born again man into the realm of the Spirit to teach us how we too can operate effectively, and not be bound by the limitations of the flesh. So having spent the last couple of days looking at that which was born of flesh let us look to that which is born of the Spirit; or as He was also referred to as the Son of God, Christ Jesus. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Have you ever heard the statement that Jesus was God? Some have referred to him as the God man, and that he was actually God himself. An interesting statement, one that raises eyebrows, but as far as truth goes by what the Bible says, tells me different. As in any case or any doctrine that blows through town it is up to you, the individual believer, to take the time to study the word of God and rightly divide the word of truth so that you will know for yourself what the Lord’s take is on the matter, and find the spiritual meaning within all scripture. Remember your salvation is riding on the fact of you finding the truth and letting that truth set you free so that you can worship our Lord in spirit and in truth. So who was this Jesus of Nazareth, and was he actually God, or was he a man whom God chose to reveal His plan of salvation through, and to have him present himself a living sacrifice for all mankind to reconcile us into a relationship with the Father through his obedience to Him?
Acts 10:36-38 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) (37) That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; (38) 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. (KJV) As I look at these verses it is quite clear that God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power. Now had Jesus been God, then He would not have had to anoint Himself would he? Rather the word of God is quite specific to show us the difference between man and God. You know, you too have been anointed with this same Holy Ghost and power once you accepted God’s plan of salvation and chose to follow Him. The question you now face is the same one Jesus of Nazareth did, and all those that chose to follow His example face on a daily basis as well; will you walk in the Spirit and overcome the lusts and desires of the flesh, or will you give in to the desires of the flesh and mind, and fall back into destruction? If you notice at the end of verse 38 it clearly points out that God was with him, not God was him. God has used different people throughout the Old and New Testament to deliver His message, and has worked miracles through them, but it didn’t mean they were God, just obedient messengers of His word. If Jesus of Nazareth and Paul the apostle were any more special than you and I what hope would we truly have if we desired to walk with God as well? It’s the same spirit of Christ that worked in them that is working within us, the only difference was their willingness and obedience to it. So please, quit looking at all these people in the Bible like they are Marvel comic super heroes, and start seeing yourself in God’s plan of salvation, and let Him be your Father also. Jesus of Nazareth lived a life in the Spirit without sin, and laid down His life so that we too could live without the influence of sin and death in our lives, and bring the same message of hope and healing to a dying dark world. James 1:12-15 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. (13) Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: (14) But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. (15) Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. (KJV) One of the differences between me and Jesus of Nazareth is that He was conceived of the Holy Spirit; a pure blood line separated from the bloodline of a fallen mankind, and thus was able to live a life without sin having been led by the Spirit of Christ from conception. I on the other hand spent many years in a life of sin and separation from God, and have spent many years undoing the old ways and thoughts, retraining myself to walk in the things of God which takes a daily renewing of the mind. So even though I was duped, and allowed myself to be drawn into sin, Jesus of Nazareth didn’t allow the temptation to draw him away from God to the point of sin, falling into its deception, but held fast His profession of faith without wavering. Take special note of verse 13 which clearly states that not only does God not tempt with evil neither can He be tempted with it. So if Jesus was God then how could He have been tempted? Hebrews 2:16-18 For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham. (17) Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. (18) For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted. (KJV) The word succour in verse 18 means to bring aid, help or relief; and what better example or man than the one mediator between God and man, the man Christ Jesus who suffered through the same temptations that we dealt with and yet sinned not. In other words we have someone seated at the right hand of the Father who is not asking us to do something He himself wasn’t willing to do, and to show us how we too can overcome these by faith in Him. Would that not have been an unfair advantage had he been God and didn’t have to suffer through these same things as we do? Isn’t it a relief to know that we can now access someone who has been there and done it under the same terms and conditions as we do and yet was able to accomplish it successfully and complete without sin? Hebrews 4:14-16 Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. (15) For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. (16) Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (KJV) How many times do we see the term Son of God, and not God being given to not only Jesus Christ of Nazareth, but unto all those that answer the call of God and become adopted into His family? You too have been adopted into the family of Christ, and are now one of those that are following His example. Though you may be called of God, and being a Christian looks like a good way to follow, something one might want to check into, it’s only those that know the truth and let it set them free that will be able to walk in the Spirit and not fulfill the lusts of the flesh, and the sin which leads to separation and an eternal death from the Father. Matthew 4:1-3 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. (2) And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. (3) And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. (KJV) Again note, if Jesus was God then how could he have been tempted when the Bible tells us God cannot be tempted? This same Jesus took part of the same flesh and blood body you have and it’s frailties, yet sinned not. The question for today is, will you now partake of the same Spirit of Christ that was within Jesus of Nazareth and is within you, this same Jesus Christ that is seated at the right hand of the Father ready to make intercession for you, and show you how in all things to be more than conquerors by keeping your body in subjection to the Spirit? So walk in that same Spirit, and you too will not be trapped in the lusts of the flesh. Was Jesus God? Well not according to God’s word he wasn’t. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Luke 4:20-22 And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him. 21 And he began to say unto them, this day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears. 22 And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, is not this Joseph's son? (KJV)
This week the question was asked, is not this Joseph’s son? For those of you that have been born again and enlightened to the truth the answer is no. Now the question becomes personal, “whose son are you”? Matthew 23:9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven. (KJV) When you were adopted by God into His spiritual family of believers, you then realized that God truly is your only Father. Some of us may have been brought up in a Christian home and encouraged by earthly parents, while others have been lied to. Either way with access to our Father in heaven, why would you settle for less than the truth? John 20:16-17 Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master. 17 Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God. (KJV) Now when our Lord made reference to His Father he wasn’t referring to Joseph was He? He was encouraging Mary not to hold onto the outward man anymore, because a new creation had risen from the dead and because of this we now have access to our Heavenly Father. 1 Corinthians 11:3 But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God. (KJV) Christ is the Son of God sent to mankind so that we could be adopted into a heavenly family that will last for eternity. Christ Himself considered God to be His only Father which is why He is seated right next to Him now. Ephesians 1:1-3 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus: 2 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: (KJV) If you notice at the beginning of the epistles that Paul wrote, he begins with the statement the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Paul understood that when He received the revelation of Christ, making God his Father, he was able to tap into all those spiritual blessings that are there for the taking. If you haven’t been partaking of the spiritual blessings lately I would say it is time to reestablish a relationship with our Father in heaven. John 17:1-3 These words spoke Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: 2 As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. 3 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. (KJV) Do you desire eternal life, then why not look to your Heavenly Father who can deliver on that promise. God bless dearly loved and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 6:39-42 And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. 40 And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day. 41 The Jews then murmured at him, because he said, I am the bread which came down from heaven. 42 And they said, is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How is it then that he saith, I came down from heaven? (KJV)
The Son that our Lord was referring to in verse 40 was not Jesus the man rather it was Christ within Him who was sent from above. Many today still get caught up in carnal lineages and limit themselves to what they have been taught by their earthly father and not the heavenly one. 2 Corinthians 5:16-18 Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more. 17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are become new. 18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; (KJV) I had a limited knowledge of Christ based on what people had taught me. Once I was born again and really grew in Christ I let my Father in heaven dictate His plan of salvation to me instead of others. You will find your walk with the Lord will become more rooted and grounded when you pull up the old weeds of doubt and confusion and replace them with something new. 1 Corinthians 8:5-7 For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,) 6 But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. 7 Howbeit there is not in every man that knowledge: for some with conscience of the idol unto this hour eat it as a thing offered unto an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled. (KJV) Since my conversion I have seen many who still waste their time with dead works serving dead doctrines, religion. I have narrowed my search and only found peace in One God, who is my only Father, and what He revealed to me is His One Son, Jesus Christ. Without this knowledge you too will be living in idolatry not knowing the truth that can set you free from all the doubt and confusion. 2 Corinthians 6:14-16 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness? 15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? Or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? 16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? For ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. (KJV) There are terms and conditions that need to be met in order to truly be considered a Son of God. When our Lord asks you to walk away from someone or something it is so that He can be your Father and have the most influence on you instead someone else. 2 Corinthians 6:17-18 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. (KJV) God bless dearly loved and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Luke 4:22-24 And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, is not this Joseph's son? 23 And he said unto them, ye will surely say unto me this proverb, Physician, heal thyself: whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country. 24 And he said, Verily I say unto you, No prophet is accepted in his own country. (KJV)
If you notice at the end of verse 22 there is a question mark, something was happening that the people were not able to identify. Today many are living in the same confusion not knowing who our Lord is personally, and this means they will not know who His Father is either. 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, Counselor, 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 forever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. (KJV) An interesting distinction is made in verse 6 concerning the son. We see a child born as well as a son that is given. This prophesy is based on fact even though the writer at the time didn’t realize it. A child born took place in Bethlehem some two thousand years ago, and at the same time a son was given. Jesus of Nazareth was the first born again man who was able to demonstrate a life being led by the Spirit of Christ within which is the Son that was given by God. Romans 1:3-6 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; 4 And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead: 5 By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name: 6 Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ: (KJV) I hear so many prayers that end in the name of Jesus leaving out Christ. Jesus Christ is the complete name of our Lord that describes not only the child that was born who walked this earth for thirty some years, but it also acknowledges Christ the Son of God given that dwelt within him. You will not be able to establish a personal relationship with the Father until you know who the Son is, and what name He goes by. Acts 4:10-12 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. 11 This is the stone which was set at naught 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) There was so much more to this man Jesus of Nazareth than what meets the eye. We see a name given which accurately describes the plan of salvation, and we see Jesus Christ is the only name that God will give ear to. John 3:5-7 Jesus answered, verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, ye must be born again. (KJV) When you were born the first time according to the flesh your carnal parents took you home and raised you. Now that you have been born again why not let the Lord raise you from the dead and be your Father today? God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Luke 4:22-24 And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, is not this Joseph's son? 23 And he said unto them, ye will surely say unto me this proverb, Physician, heal thyself: whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country. 24 And he said, Verily I say unto you, No prophet is accepted in his own country. (KJV)
Those who are in the flesh have limited their vision, unable to see beyond the veil that covers the heart. We see our Lord being described as Joseph’s son by those that claimed to be of God. Today we see history repeating itself by those that only know our Lord after the flesh and not the Spirit. Mankind has come up with many names for our Lord based on what they think and not what is being revealed from above; and many today only know our Lord as Jesus the man, without knowing who Christ is, which is why the blindness continues. Luke 20:41-44 And he said unto them, how say they that Christ is David's son? 42 And David himself saith in the book of Psalms, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, 43 Till I make thine enemies thy footstool. 44 David therefore calls him Lord, how is he then his son? (KJV) I heard the statement made that Jesus left his place in heaven to come down to earth. Well for those that are limited in their understanding they see our Lord according to the carnal lineage only. However, Christ the Word was sent by God and dwelt within Jesus of Nazareth which is why he was able to live a life without sin. The more you look within for the answer to this mystery, the less you will be on the outside living in confusion and doubt. Matthew 16:15-18 He saith unto them, But who say ye that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 18 And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. (KJV) Peter was given a revelation from above and as you see it didn’t involve Joseph or David did it? Actually it was pointing him in a different direction, the realm of the Spirit. After all if God is a spirit then it would be fitting to say that His Son is a Spiritual being also. Has God taken you beyond the realm of the flesh so that you can see who Christ is for yourself? Galatians 1:9-12 As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. 10 For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. 11 But I certify you, brethren that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. 12 For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. (KJV) When you were born again your days of people pleasing should have come to an end. We see that Paul received the same revelation that Peter did which involved Christ. Any name, any doctrine, any lineage that does not involve Christ is not of God and is incomplete. I wonder if that is why the enemy of our Lord is described as antichrist? God bless dearly loved and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Luke 4:22-24 And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, is not this Joseph's son? 23 And he said unto them, ye will surely say unto me this proverb, Physician, heal thyself: whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country. 24 And he said, Verily I say unto you, No prophet is accepted in his own country. (KJV)
When looking at things with your carnal vision you are limited and cannot see beyond the realm of the flesh. The same premise still holds true today with many who only see Jesus the man, not understanding that it was Christ within that made Him the Son of God. Matthew 13:54-58 And when he was come into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, insomuch that they were astonished, and said, whence hath this man this wisdom, and these mighty works? 55 Is not this the carpenter's son? Is not his mother called Mary? And his brethren, James, and José’s, and Simon, and Judas? 56 And his sisters are they not all with us? Whence then hath this man all these things? 57 And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honor, save in his own country, and in his own house. 58 And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief. (KJV) When you were born again you were adopted into a new family with a lineage that is not of this world; and many that you were close to in the past may not understand the new life in Christ you have chosen, the different path that He now has you walking. Don’t take it personally or think that you have done something wrong; the truth is many have limited our Lord by their carnal thinking and would rather see you do the same. Matthew 23:8-11 But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is you’re Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren. 9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven. 10 Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. 11 But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. (KJV) Being born again means that you can now call upon your Father in heaven, and wow He will respond! The reality is that our heavenly Father is the one who created us so let’s give credit where credit is due and not give so many accolades to those that man thinks are important, you know titles like Rabbi or reverend. Matthew 10:34-37 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. 37 He that loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. (KJV) When reading through the gospels you see how Joseph was mentioned early on, but as our Lord progressed in His walk you can see the transition from the carnal to the spiritual. Today do you consider yourself Joseph’s son only, or have you allowed our Father in heaven to have the most influence in your life? God bless dearly loved and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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