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1Thessalonians 2:3-6 For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile: (4) But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts. (5) For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness: (6) Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ. (KJV)
Flattering words are those that seek to please the people, which can actually beguile them as well if one is not saying what they truly mean. Say what you mean and mean what you say when speaking on behalf of our Lord. Many are more concerned with what people’s perception of them is rather than the approval of our Lord, which makes them more of a hindrance than an asset to the body of Christ. So how do you give God’s answer to people, is it the straight forward truth that will set them free or are you sugar coating the speech to make it more acceptable to them? When you are asked a question, do you give simple yes and no answers or do you feel it is necessary to explain yourself to people, trying to explain it in a way you hope they will accept? For those that wish to truly please our Lord you will find that trying to please God and man just doesn’t seem to work, like mixing oil and water, it just doesn’t gel. For those that are truly steadfast and unmovable in their walk, they will find that pleasing God alone may leave you on a narrow path, one that is not heavily traveled, but the only one that leads to our eternal inheritance. Matthew 5:37 But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil. (KJV) Williams New Testament translation for Matthew 5:37 37. But your way of speaking must be a simple `Yes' or `No.' Anything beyond this comes from the evil one. Have you ever had someone ask you a question or make a request for you to do something and your answer was no? Then once you gave your answer there is a space of uncomfortable silence, where now you are expected or think you owe an explanation? This is exactly what the Lord is referring to here; keep your answer simple and to the point and don’t think you always have to explain yourself. Many of us have been brought up with the mindset that we need to be polite and do things just to please others, even things that are contrary to sound doctrine or something the Lord just isn’t asking us to partake of. Now I am not saying to be a jerk, but rather if the Lord asks you not to involve yourself in something, no matter how popular it may be to others, a simple yes or no answer is all that is needed to be pleasing to our Father. And don’t think you need to manufacture an answer just because someone else is putting the pressure on you, if you don’t have an answer at the time or if you are just not sure, then it would be in your best interest to leave it alone and not try to make something up that you will regret later. Sometimes the Lord just may ask you to not get involved even though at the time you are not sure why; but by letting patience have its perfect work, sometime later the answer will manifest as to why the Lord had you withdraw from it. Simply put this is just another way of saying we walk by faith and not sight. Basically what Paul is saying is that if you are always seeking to be a people pleaser, then don’t expect to be used by God. However if you chose His approval above anyone or anything else then you will be a vessel fit, ready for the Masters use. Psalms 5:8-9 Lead me, O LORD, in thy righteousness because of mine enemies; make thy way straight before my face. (9) For there is no faithfulness in their mouth; their inward part is very wickedness; their throat is an open sepulchre; they flatter with their tongue. (KJV) Have you ever seen people and the term ‘slick’ applies as a fitting nickname? Someone that always tells everyone what they want to hear, someone that just uses people for their own advantage? The reason there is no faithfulness coming out of the mouth is because there is nothing in the heart but two faced double talk; always the nice guy telling people what they want to hear and not what is really going on, which aptly describes many of the so called pastors and teachers we have around today. Are you able to give a straightforward answer concerning the kingdom of God or do you skirt the truth leaving out the essentials so as not to offend anyone? When someone asks your response to an issue are you able to respond with what is pleasing to God or are you more concerned with mans opinion of you? If someone asks you to get involved in something that is not peaceable, something you know is not of God, do you feel the need to explain it in a way they will accept, sugar coating it, or do you just give a simple yes or no answer and let them ask God for themselves if they are really concerned? We have way too many people pleasers preaching and teaching things they shouldn’t be for their own advantage sake and not the Lord’s anymore, which will have dire consequences to those that follow these wishy washy doctrines. Ephesians 4:29-30 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. (30) And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. (KJV) Sometimes what is edifying to the hearers is not always something that is pleasing to them, but something they needed to hear. One of the ways many corrupt the true communication that should be coming from the mouth is by flattery, people pleasing, someone that should have been a minister of grace is now a disgrace in the sight of our Lord. It grieves the Holy Spirit to see the true intention of God watered down by those that don’t have the spiritual spine to stand up and tell the people what they need to hear and not just what they want to hear. When you were raising your children and all they were concerned with in their diet was things that had sugar and spice, things that they thought were nice, did you cave in and give them what they wanted or what they needed? As one matures, and this does include maturing in the Lord, you find out that in order to grow strong it will take a much better diet than that to maintain a healthy body. So it is not only a matter of what you are feeding yourself spiritually, but what are you feeding others around you as well? Is it simple truth that will build them up and edify or are you halting between two opinions seeking the favor of man and God at the same time? Psalms 12:1-4 Help, LORD; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men. (2) They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak. (3) The LORD shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things: (4) Who have said, With our tongue will we prevail; our lips are our own: who is lord over us? (KJV) Ever hear the term two faced? Well we have a lot of two faced people that speak from both sides of their mouth because of a double heart, which makes them double minded and unstable in the things of our Lord. So who is Lord in your life, and whose words are you speaking today? Are they spirit and are they life to the brethren or are they of your own tongue seeking your own desires? Don’t wait till it’s too late to find out, remember flattery will get you nowhere. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Peter 1:7-9 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: (8) Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: (9) Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. (KJV)
Wasn’t the whole idea for accepting God’s plan of salvation into your life was to make it to the end and receive His eternal reward of inheritance? Having gone through the trial of this life which one can only be an overcomer by faith, it is the salvation of your soul that is of the utmost importance, especially when the day comes that you stand before God and give an account of your life; this life of faith in the message delivered by Christ. Jesus Christ is the first and the last; it was His word of life that brought you into the Kingdom and He will have the last say concerning your entrance into His eternal one. He is the author and finisher of our faith as well, so if you have been resurrected into the realm of the Spirit and are confident that the message you preach and follow came from the Father through the Son, then you will not be ashamed when it is time to be resurrected into His eternal realm forever. You may have entered this race with good intentions, but it is so vital that you continue and endure to the end so that you will be saved and receive the eternal inheritance. While many think all they have to do is answer some alter call to be saved, the truth be known, that is just the beginning; now you need to continue in the faith grounded and settled and don’t be moved away from the only hope of the gospel, which is Jesus Christ and His message of faith to the believers, a faith without which we cannot be pleasing to Him. Matthew 7:21-23 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. (22) Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? (23) And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. (KJV) Do you know what the worst part about reading the above verses is, that the people described were actually believers, those that had a zeal for God but obviously it wasn’t according to His knowledge; God’s people perishing for lack of knowledge. Take note of the fact that we are not just talking about a few here, but verse 22 is quite clear to point out that it is many that end up being deceived and do not receive the reward of inheritance, the salvation of their own souls. Somewhere along the line in their walk they were no longer communicating with the Father, but rather the father of lies who comes to steal the truth, kill the life within them, and then watch their soul eternally destroyed in the lake of fire. Are you totally sure of the message you are hearing today is of God? Does it line up with His word or have you been sidetracked and are now following a different protocol? Are there question marks in your life concerning your walk? When you stand before God someday you will know and not guess you are one of His? Remember the word of God tells us that whatsoever is not of faith is sin, so if it isn’t the Lord directing your steps then you are none of His. Those that wish to enter into the Lord’s eternal inheritance need to let the Lord in their life now, today, so that there will be no doubt or question marks concerning their reward of inheritance. Simply put people, if you don’t let the Lord into your life then He is not going to let you into His either. What rightfully belonged to people who were at one time children of God was stolen from them without them even knowing it, because somewhere along the path of life they started out on they turned and followed a different path that led to destruction. 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 thereat: (14) Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. (KJV) There is only one path that leads to eternal life; and sad to say, only a few who find it. Years ago there was on old song that said ‘there’s a whole lot of people going home’, however the truth be known only a few will actually make it in, while many will be rejected. There is only one path, one Lord, and one faith that lead us unto life; and without this knowledge of who, what, and where this path is for you, you will not receive your eternal reward. Have you ever heard the statement ‘all paths lead to the same place’? Well that’s true, because when it involves any other way into the Kingdom besides the one our Lord said would get you in, then all those other ways are that of a thief and a robber, which is widely known as the path of destruction. Don’t be deceived into thinking that just because you joined some religious organization, or because you tithe twice a week or any other of our own works, you have your ticket stamped. Without faith, as the Bible says the just shall live by faith, without hearing this message on a daily basis then acting on what is heard you will end up eternally on the outside wishing in, knowing what was yours and what you had access to only to let it slip away from your grasp. 1 Corinthians 15:53-57 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. (54) So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. (55) O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? (56) The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. (57) But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (KJV) You know folks, this once saved always saved doctrine just doesn’t fly. Oh it sounds good and sure is an ear tickler which gives many a warm feeling inside, but the truth be known your salvation is based on your ability to hear the message delivered by Christ, then being a doer and not a hearer only unto the end. Your born again experience was just the beginning, now we will see if you will truly allow Jesus Christ to be the author and finisher of your faith so that you can receive your eternal inheritance. Again as we notice in the above verses, that it is not until we are given a new incorruptible body are we then allowed access into God’s kingdom; then and only then will we escape the second death which is eternal separation from the Father. So before you kick back in your easy chair and think you got this thing licked, heed the warnings in the word of God so that you can continue in the love of God and spend your eternity with Him. Revelation 2:11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death. (KJV) Strong’s definition for overcometh: 3528 nikao (nik-ah'-o); from 3529; to subdue (literally or figuratively): KJV-- conquer, overcome, prevail, get the victory. You know the Lord just didn’t ask us to squeak by or hope we are one of His, but rather we should be an overcomer and walk in victory. It is our faith in what Christ has begun in us and continues to do that gives us this victory and will give us access to His eternal reward so that we can spend eternity doing a victory lap in His kingdom. Don’t be fooled Church, don’t be lulled back into a spiritual sleep and entombed into the realm of the flesh again, but hold fast your profession of faith without wavering, a message coming from the only author who will lead you to victory. Hebrews 10:35-39 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. (36) For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. (37) For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. (38) Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. (39) But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. (KJV) In this fast paced world patience is not something that is often spoke of, let alone put into practice. But by letting patience have its perfect work we can mature in the Lord, lacking nothing. You have been reborn, resurrected to a new life in Christ, which is just the beginning. Continue in the faith, letting the good work that our Lord began in you to continue to the end so that you can receive what is rightfully yours, the salvation of your soul. Romans 6:22 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. (KJV) My prayer for each and everyone is that the end of this trail here will result in the beginning of their eternal reward with our heavenly Father. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:14-17 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. (15) For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. (16) The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: (17) And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. (KJV)
When you pick up your phone and a stranger makes a crank call, one that tries to get us into the realm of fear, you can be assured that message is not coming from God. Those that are led by the Spirit will be able to quickly identify the caller on the other end and know whether it is in their best interest to take the call and receive the message or quickly hang up. This same principle holds true in the spiritual realm, God is calling His people and has promised that He would never leave us or forsake us, so now the question is whether the line of communication is still open and you are still getting good reception to hear the message. If you notice the voice on the other end is not as clear as before or you are having a hard time getting good reception, maybe you are not in the place you need to be to get good reception, like a tunnel or a tomb. If that is the case then you need to move back to the realm of the Spirit if you wish to be a joint heir, a continuing partnership with the Lord. You know when we were children in this world growing up we needed parents or someone older to supervise us and give us the provisions needed to sustain life. Even though some of us would threaten to run away when we were younger, by the time dinner rolled around that plan was abandoned and forgotten. Spiritually you are a child of God, and it is vital that we stay close to our heavenly Father and get the provisions we need as well as the instructions in our walk so that we can sustain this relationship with Him and continue in the deliverance He provided from our own destructions. Hebrews 12:25-29 See that ye refuse not him that speaketh. For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven: (26) Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven. (27)And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. (28) Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: (29) For our God is a consuming fire. (KJV) Williams New Testament translation of Hebrews 12:25-29 25. See to it that you do not refuse to listen to Him who is speaking to you. For if they did not escape, because they refused to listen to him who warned them here on earth, how much less can we, if we reject Him who is from heaven? 26. Then His voice shook the earth, 27. but now His promise is, "Once more I will make not only the earth but heaven itself tremble." Now that expression, "Once more," signifies the final removal of the things that can be shaken, to let remain the things that cannot be shaken. 28. Let us, therefore, be thankful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and in this way continue to serve God acceptably in reverence and fear; 29. for our God, indeed, is a consuming fire. You know this kingdom that cannot be shaken is a spiritual one, one that is not of this world. The kingdom of God is now within you, so when everything else around us is shaken isn’t it comforting to know that you don’t have to be. It is important that we keep the line of communication open to receive this message of salvation which is founded on a rock solid foundation which is Christ, one that cannot be shaken. So where do you stand today; are you on a rock solid footing that is not being moved, one that is established by our heavenly Father or are you standing out in the wilderness having a hard time getting good spiritual reception because of all the winds of doctrine blowing around you? John 18:36 Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence. (KJV) If the Lord’s kingdom is not of this world, then why do so many today still pattern their walk and thinking according to this world and its fallen way of thinking? You have access to His kingdom which is not of this world and is not accepted of this world; and yet with this in mind why do so many still fight with the world over worldly things and issues that have nothing to do with our eternal salvation. But we have rights, yes you do, you have direct access to the throne of God through His Son Jesus Christ to hear His message of faith delivered personally to you so that you won’t be shaken and all stirred up with the cares of this life and deceitfulness of riches which many are chasing after and no longer able to hear the message of Christ clearly. Romans 10:16-18 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? (17) So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (18) But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world. (KJV) Williams New Testament translation for Romans 10:16-18 16. However, they have not all given heed to the good news, for Isaiah says, "Lord, who has put faith in what we told?" 17. So faith comes from hearing what is told, and hearing through the message about Christ. 18. But may I ask, They had no chance to hear, did they? Yes, indeed: "All over the earth their voices have gone, to the ends of the world their words." Again I like using the Williams translation for these verses; faith is our ability to hear for ourselves personally the message delivered by Christ. The more you give ear to this message, the less you will be giving ear to the mess that is going on around us in the world, and the less likely you will be shaken by the outward. While many think that only certain people in certain parts of the world are able to hear the message of God, the Bible is quite clear to point out that this message has gone forth throughout the whole world. After all, the Bible is quite clear to point out that God has given to every man the measure of faith. The question now is how many are receiving it, as well as the fact that He is no respecter of persons? He is quite clear to also to point out that His spirit was poured out upon all flesh, not just some. So now the question is, who is listening to the voice of God and His message being delivered by Christ; and who is willing to walk by faith and not by sight or any other physical senses that are contrary to our spiritual senses? In fact to the carnal man the things of God make no sense, but are foolish to those in the realm of the flesh, those that continue to live according to their fallen nature and not partakers of the divine one. Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (KJV) When a situation arises in your life is God the first one you seek for your instructions or do you look elsewhere first and then wonder why you got so shook up? Once you ask the Lord, will you be still long enough to hear the answer and know that He is God so that you can proceed forward in your walk with confidence and boldness? Expect the best, because you serve the best, and you will not be shaken in mind or spirit, but rather steadfast and unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord. John 1:10-13 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. (11) He came unto his own, and his own received him not. (12) But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: (13) Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. (KJV)
Strong’s definition for received: 3880 paralambano (par-al-am-ban'-o); from 3844 and 2983; to receive near, i.e. associate with oneself (in any familiar or intimate act or relation); by analogy, to assume an office; figuratively, to learn: KJV-- receive, take (unto, with). A heavenly call has gone forth to all mankind to resurrect them from the tomb of the realm of the flesh into a new realm which is spiritual. Mankind has been entrapped in the realm of sin and death which has kept them separated from God until the time of reconciliation, which was accomplished through Jesus Christ our Lord. Now that you have heard the call it is vital that you keep the line of communication open between you and your heavenly Father so that you can hear His instructions on a daily basis, and follow the path He chose for you before the foundation of the world. God has let mankind know throughout the Bible that He would send the Messiah for the salvation of the world; and as we see in the example from John, many did not recognize Him let alone receive the message God was sending through Him. But to those that do receive Him, they are able to walk in the same power of God, which is Christ, because of their belief in His name. Where many today still have issues with God is in their unwillingness to believe in the Son and allow Him to rule and reign within them. Many don’t receive the things of God because they are not willing to let go and trust more in Christ and less in their own abilities or understanding; which if one is leaning to their own way of thinking they will fall. Galatians 3:1-5 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. (5) He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? (KJV) While the Lord is calling His people, the devil is out and about making crank calls doing all he can to distract and deceive. Rather than believing in the message of Christ, many are trying to perfect it in the flesh by the works of the law through the traditions and doctrines of man, thus having been distracted and deceived. Paul is asking the people a simple question, was your rebirth and resurrection into the realm of the Spirit done by works, or was it by simply hearing the word of God and receiving it as truth? He then goes on to basically ask the people ‘if this is how you entered this new life then would not the simplicity of hearing of faith be what keeps you in this realm?’ In fact he goes so far as to call them foolish, ‘something that has begun in the Spirit is now going to be perfected by the flesh?’ God’s call is simple, receive His message by faith, then walk according to what you hear from Him and not what so many others claim is necessary, especially the works of the law and its dead end rituals. You started out so good people, but now you have disconnected the heavenly line and are listening to the voice of a stranger, no longer able to receive the things of God. It’s kind of like football, they have receivers that run a route and are expected to catch the pass and move forward toward the goal line. If a receiver runs the wrong route or the ball is thrown his way and he drops it, the team will not progress forward. You are expected to huddle up with the Lord on a daily basis and learn the route He has for you that day so that you can receive His message and progress forward toward the mark of the prize of His high calling. Keep in mind though, that the more you learn to receive the things of God and progress forward toward the goal, the more of a target you become to the opposition who’s only goal is to keep you from the goal line. So take the time on a daily basis to learn the playbook, and receive God’s plan for you that was drawn up before the foundation of the world. 1 John 4:4-6 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. (5) They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. (6) We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. (KJV) Are you willing to turn your life over to someone much greater than yourself and receive His plan of salvation? To many it sounds like a no brainer, and yet the simple fact is that this is where so many fall short, unwilling to trust their spiritual senses more than their own physical outward ones. Are you hearing the message personally, or is this Bible stuff something that only happens to certain special people? You have a Spirit far greater than anything in this life, who is waiting for you to pick up the spiritual receiver and hear His message so that you can achieve the eternal goal God has for His people. Hebrews 12:2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. (KJV) Let me ask this question, can you think of someone else you would want writing a script for your life than Jesus Christ who is now seated at the right hand of the Father? Not only did He write the beginning for you, He even wrote the ending which is intended to have you end up in the same place He did. But how will you know this unless you make it a priority on a daily basis to hear His message and respond in faith, believing that what He promises His people He is able to do exceeding and abundantly above all that we could ask or think. Is Jesus Christ truly the author of your life today? If not, you surly won’t like the ending. Are you receiving the things of God that are necessary to sustain you spiritually so that you can continue forward on the path of life? You too will endure opposition and shame from those of the world, but I pray it is not enough to deter you from answering and receiving your heavenly instructions. You too will have to pick up your own cross and crucify your own desires if you wish to continue in this faith; but before you throw a pity party, consider our Lord and what He endured to get this message to His people. With all that has been done on your behalf isn’t it time you start receiving more of the good news of the gospel of Christ and less of the old news of this fallen world? Isaiah 46:9-11 Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, (10) Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure: (11) Calling a ravenous bird from the east, the man that executeth my counsel from a far country: yea, I have spoken it, I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed it, I will also do it. (KJV) Again I ask you, are you able to declare the end of something before it happens, accurately one hundred percent of the time? If not, then why would you doubt someone that can, someone much greater than you and I who is living within us waiting to be resurrected again if only we would let Him? Don’t be like so many others that don’t receive from God what is rightfully theirs because of doubt and unbelief, but rather hold fast your profession of faith without wavering, knowing that what God promises He is able to do; in fact He even declares it a done deal before it happens. Do you know somebody else with that good of a proven track record? Isaiah 42:6-9 I the LORD have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles; (7) To open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house. (8) I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images. (9) Behold, the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them. (KJV) The Lord is calling His people, which you are one of His; now will you receive His message and believe more in what He has done and accomplished, and less in your own thoughts and works? Believed and received; be not deceived, God bless. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 11:11-14 These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep. (12) Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well. (13) Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. (14) Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead. (KJV)
God’s word was made flesh and dwelt among us in the form of Jesus Christ, who was sent from God to deliver mankind from a death sentence to one of eternal life. The things our Lord did and demonstrated are still available to His people today; those that God sends to speak words of life and wake people up from their spiritual stupors. When you see the phrase sleep it does refer to death also. Lazarus is someone we can identify with ourselves. And as we read yesterday, a man who was stuck in darkness, bound up in grave clothes whose life stunk, and was being resurrected from his sleep by the word of the Lord. We too were dead in sin and trespasses but are now made alive again so that we are able to walk in newness of life in the Spirit, no longer bound by the desires of the flesh. Ephesians 5:14-16 Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. (15) See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, (16) Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. (KJV) Many think and are taught that someday there will be a wonderful resurrection to a new eternal life with Christ, and for many of them they can hardly wait for that day to come. Those that have their spiritual senses exercised today know that now it is time to awaken from our spiritual stupor, arise from the dead and walk in the light of the glorious gospel of Christ and the path He chose for us before the foundation of the world. Thayer’s definition for awake: 1453 egeiro- to arouse, to cause to rise a) to arouse from sleep, to awake b) to arouse from the sleep of death, to recall the dead to life Romans 13:11-14 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. (12) The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. (13) Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. (14) But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. (KJV) Have you woken up from the dead; are you arising now and heeding the spiritual calling, or are you all caught up in the striving and cares of this life? Now it is high time; time for you to be seated in the heavenly places with Christ, and not stuck in this dead end realm of the flesh with its dead end results. Your salvation is near, the Lord Himself is standing at your door knocking on the heart to see if you will let Him in and give you new life. Like with the example of Lazarus, He is ready to roll away the old stony heart and set you free to the only liberty you will find, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. So are you heeding the call of our Lord; are you stepping out in faith into a new realm so that you can be partakers of the heavenly gift that God sent to us through His Son Jesus Christ? Now is the day of salvation, now it is much nearer than you thought; so will you get up from your spiritual hangover and answer the call, or will you sleep in and miss out on an eternal heavenly reward which is rightfully yours for the taking? Have you put on the whole armor of God which is Jesus Christ so that you will no longer be taken down by the fiery darts of the enemy and put back to sleep? Walk in the Spirit of Christ so that you no longer have to be in bondage to the lusts of the flesh, fulfilling its deadly desires which are contrary to our Lord’s desire for you. 1 Corinthians 15:31-34 I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. (32) If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die. (33) Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. (34) Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame. (KJV) Paul himself realized that in order to resurrect daily to this new life in Christ he would have to die on a daily basis. The outward or the old man continues to perish on a daily basis, because we are now walking by faith and relying more on our spiritual sight than the physical one. Our inward man should be renewed on a daily basis so that we stay awake and alert spiritually, and are not ambushed by the enemy. Are the eyes of your understanding enlightened to the things of the Spirit, or are they becoming heavy and you are drifting back to sleep again? Take heed to the warning in verse 33, because Paul did not say that evil communication might corrupt, but rather would corrupt good manners. These warnings are not put in the Bible just to fill in pages or finish a paragraph, but are there for the benefit of His people so they won’t be deceived back to sleep again, but rather stay awake and alert to the things of God. Some people are not aware of these things that many may consider little and trivial, but remember it only took a little leaven to leaven the whole lump, and for those that don’t operate in this knowledge, like Paul said, he speaks this to their shame. It’s one thing if the people of the world decide to ignore the word of the Lord and perish; it’s another to see God’s people perish because of their lack of knowledge in spiritual matters; which in the end is all that truly matters. 1 Corinthians 11:27-30 Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. (28) But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. (29) For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. (30) For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. (KJV) The Bible says that we all need to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling, coming to an understanding of God’s plan of salvation for ourselves so that we no longer have to guess, but know who we are in Christ, and find our place within the body. Many that have had a spiritual awakening at some time, end up falling back to sleep, this after becoming weak and sickly. It’s because of their lack of discernment and diligence, as well in making the Lord their priority that they ended up in this condition. The Bible warns us of the many false prophets that shall come preaching damnable heresies to the point of denying the Lord, and they bring upon themselves swift destruction. Not only will the false prophets suffer eternal consequences because what should have been the bread of life was actually polluted and full of deadly spiritual diseases which eat like a cancer, but those that follow them and lend their support to them will also suffer the same consequences as well. So wake up Church; you have a Bible and you have access to the throne of God so that you can sit together with Christ on a daily basis and hear His words firsthand; they are spirit and they are life to those that hear. Don’t fall asleep at the wheel again and end up in a ditch spinning your wheels, but stay alert and follow the only path that leads to eternal life, the same path our leader and forerunner Jesus Christ followed Himself. God bless and keep the faith. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 11:23-26 Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again. (24) Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. (25) Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: (26) And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? (KJV)
Today it is a common knowledge that someday we will die and then be resurrected into the heavenly realm, or I should say that is the desire of every believer. However, if you notice the wording in verse 25, you will see our Lord makes the statement that ‘I am the resurrection as well as the life’, not I will be or have been, but I am, right now. Not only does He refer to Himself as the resurrection, but also the life; in fact by simply believing in Him we will never have to die. Ephesians 2:4-7 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, (5) Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) (6) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: (7) That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. (KJV) Thayer’s definition for quicken: 2227 zoopoieo- 1) to produce alive, to begat or to bear living young 2) to cause to live, to make alive, to give life a) by spiritual power to arouse and invigorate b) to restore to life If you notice in verse 6, the word hath is used, something that has already taken place and continues to. We were all dead in our sins; our old fallen nature kept us separated from the things of God so that we were not able to partake of the new life in Christ. Now that you are a partaker of this new life by being born again into the realm of the Spirit, Christ is resurrected in you, and allows you to be a partaker of His heavenly kingdom. You are now resurrected from a spiritual death, a separation from God, and have access to the throne of God through the name of Jesus Christ so that you can sit and hear the message of Christ on a daily basis. These are the true riches of an exceeding grace that is available now, not just some day in the sweet bye and bye. Colossians 2:12-13 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. (13) And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; (KJV) It’s a spiritual baptism that allows you to be spiritually risen with God from your dead end life in the flesh. Have you ever heard the term baptized by fire? Well, those that truly know the Lord have been baptized, identified as partakers of Christ by dying to self, allowing Him to resurrect and lead them on the path of life. In the Old Testament the children of Israel were considered to be baptized unto Moses as well, because the life they were now living was one that was following the commandments of God as He instructed Moses on how they should live. We too are identified with Christ, because we choose to be led by His spirit and not our old fallen nature which is influenced by the lusts of the flesh, thus giving us access to the heavenly realm. Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. (KJV) You know, in order for there to be a resurrection there first has to be a death. Although many claim they want to go to heaven, few are willing to die to get there; which spiritually is something that should be taking place right now. Crucifixion was and still is a most excruciating way to die, and one that truly does keep the body in subjection. The Lord is asking His people to take up their own cross on a daily basis and die to self so that they can walk in newness of life being led by the Spirit and not the lower nature. So who is leading and guiding you this day; and are you headed in the right direction, taking a seat in the heavenly realm so that you can hear the message of Christ, and carry out His personal plan of salvation He intended for you to walk in? The life we now live should be a life of faith of the Son of God; what He has done on our behalf, as well as what He would like to continue to do in and through you. Now the real question is, ‘will you let Him’? Romans 6:3-7 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? (4) Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. (5) For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: (6) Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. (7) For he that is dead is freed from sin. (KJV) Remember what happened after our Lord was crucified? There was a resurrection that brought forth a new man. Those of us that allow our old nature to be crucified and buried will also experience the likeness of His resurrection by walking in newness of life, and not according to the old dead sinful nature. It is only those that truly die to sin who are freed from its deadly grasp, and are set free to walk in the Spirit and no longer fulfill the lusts of the flesh. Romans 6:8-11 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: (9) Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. (10) For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. (11) Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. (KJV) Verse 8 begins with the word ‘now’; a now faith in Jesus Christ that the life we now live in the flesh is one that will be by the faith of Him. We should be dead to sin so that we can now resurrect ourselves alive spiritually unto God through the one mediator between God and man, that being Jesus Christ our Lord. John 11:39-44 Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days. (40) Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God? (41) Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me. (42) And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me. (43) And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth. (44) And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go. (KJV) If you look at the spiritual implications of what took place with Lazarus, you can see the similarities of how it parallels our own rebirth into the realm of the Spirit. We too at one time were bound up in sin and our life did stink as well, being dead spiritually and separated from our Lord. Once the stone, or should I say the stony heart was taken away, a new life was brought forth by the word of the Lord and resurrected. We were all bound up with sin and unbelief, but now we are loosed and set free to serve our Lord in spirit and in truth. Is everyday a new day with you; has the Son risen in you to enlighten you to the new life in Christ, or are you still spiritually bound in some dark realm? Arise and shine, and Christ shall give you life again. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Malachi 3:8-10 Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. (9) Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. (10) Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. (KJV)
When you now think of a storehouse, as well as the term mine house which we see illustrated in verse 10, you should now be thinking of the Church, the true house of God which is His people, of which you can include yourself. In the past our efforts and mindset were things that were not of God, thus robbing Him the opportunity to work in our lives. Now that you are able to understand what the house of God is, and that His people are a storehouse for His word, you then set your affection on the things of God which opens the heavenly windows to pour out a blessing for His Church, which is Christ the gift of God given to mankind for edification. Hebrews 5:14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. (KJV) You know, when you are really hungry and in need of a meal, solid food in the form of meat not only satisfies the hunger but provides the nourishment that is needed for the physical body. The same holds true in the spiritual realm, there is a time where those that truly wish to mature in the Lord need to wean themselves off the milk of the word of God and into the meat of it. It is the Lord’s desire that the people not only get the proper nourishment that is needed in the form of solid spiritual meat, but that those who are overseers of the flock, pastors and preachers, provide the meat for the house of God which is His church, the people. While so many these days focus on brick and mortar buildings, the building God is concerned with is His spiritual one, the people that should be getting built up and established in the truth, and not robbed of the true riches of God’s wisdom and knowledge. It is time for God’s people to focus more on the inward and less on the outward in order to be blessed of God and allow His windows to keep open and rain living waters on His people. It is also up to you the individual to spend time in the word of God for yourself so that you can keep your spiritual senses exercised to know the difference between the good and evil, and not be duped by self serving people who are more interested in building up a name for themselves rather than the name of Christ. 1 Corinthians 3:9-11 For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building. (10) According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. (11) For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. (KJV) Thayer’s definition for husbandry: 1091 georgion-a cultivated field, husbandry, tillage You, the people of God, are what He considers His building, His storehouse if you would, and that is where the priority for those that have been called to preach should be. You can always tell who the good farmer is because he is outstanding in his field. You are the field, a place where the seed is planted, the storehouse is built, and are now bringing forth fruit unto God in the form of love, joy, peace, and longsuffering as well. There is a wise masterbuilder we can pattern our lives after who can build an eternal building, one that will withstand the storms of this life and preserve His crops for the Master. Are you established in the truth, grounded and settled on the foundation of Jesus Christ and His doctrine, or have you built a foundation on sand that is not settled and can be blown around with a wind of doctrine? 1 Corinthians 3:12-15 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; (13) Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. (14) If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. (15) If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. (KJV) Once you have begun this building it is vital that you endure to the end and make sure it stands. While many may have begun with good intentions somewhere along the line they got sidetracked, and what began in the Spirit was not perfected in the Spirit, but they try to perfect it by the flesh. Our God is a consuming fire, a fire that can be used for purifying as well. Gold and silver and other precious materials can be purified by fire, getting rid of the slag and impurities, leaving the pureness intact. Other things like wood, hay, or stubble are not purified but rather they burn and are destroyed, as they cannot withstand the fire. Many man-made self serving doctrines are similar to wood, hay, and stubble, highly flammable and not of much use; not something you want to build a house with, especially when it is dealing with our eternal residence. When I look at verse 15 and see the word burned, I think of chastening, and how God deals with us concerning impurities in our walk; and though it hurts the flesh to let go of these things, the spirit is set free and yields to the peaceable fruit of righteousness. Philippians 3:7-9 But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. (8) Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, (9) And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: (KJV) Paul had his own take on God’s consuming fire, and in the end Paul realized just where the world and its ways ranked as compared to the things of God. Although Paul suffered the loss of all things in this realm he found it opened a new realm for him to operate in and allow God to open the windows of heaven to him so that he could write a good part of the epistles; which at the time he thought were just letters to certain churches, but ended up to be letters for the Church today as well. So where do the things of this life rank with you? Do you consider it a pile of dung also when compared to the things of God, or are you still putting up with a lot unpleasant things to the spirit man which are starting to stink to high heaven? Corinthians 3:16-17 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? (17) If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. (KJV) You are God’s building, the temple He wishes to occupy and bless. Are you bringing all your efforts and priorities His way, or are you still trying to do things your old dead end ways? Don’t be duped by those that claim to be of God but are defiling His temple with false doctrines and covetous practices; because with what measure is given out will come back their way in a most unpleasant manner with eternal consequences. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matthew 16:12-17 Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. (13) When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? (14) And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. (15) He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? (16) And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. (17) And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. (KJV)
The Lord had just warned the disciples of false doctrine, having used the example of a little leaven in the bread which can enter in and take over the whole lump. It doesn’t take much leaven to get into the lump in order for it to spread through the whole lump or congregation if you would, so that those that claimed to be a group of believers were actually a group of deceivers. Those that had the Son of God standing right before them and fulfilling all the scriptures they claimed to know and believe were actually working contrary to our Lord’s sound doctrine and had become enemies. Our Lord then proceeded to ask the disciples whom did men say that He the Son of man was and received multiple answers; when He asked them whom did they see Him as He received one answer and we see the doctrine the Lord acknowledged as His was according to the revelation of Christ. Just like with us, as happened to Peter, it takes a personal relationship with our Father in order to see and understand the truth so that we can continue to access Him through His Son, our one and only mediator which is Christ Jesus. Matthew 16:18-20 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. (19) And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. (20) Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ. (KJV) The rock our Lord was referring to is Christ not Peter which some claim; being the fact that we do not pray to God through Peter but rather through Jesus Christ. It is this revelation, this doctrine and only this doctrine that will hold up in our Father’s court of law; a law of faith which brings new life to our inner man by keeping our old man in subjection. This name of Christ is the key that unlocks all the treasures of the wisdom and knowledge of God; and the lies and deceptions of hell which kept us bound are no longer prevailing in our life, but rather are knocked down and being trampled upon, as we are walking in the liberty in Christ. Those things that have been kept bound in heaven are now loosed, and the windows of heaven are opened to pour out for you all the spiritual blessings in Christ; those things that have been hid from mankind but now ready to be revealed to those that wish to worship our God in spirit and in truth in the way He intended; those whom He is seeking that are willing to worship Him in this manner. Matthew 16:21-23 From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day. (22) Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee. (23) But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men. (KJV) What I find interesting is how once one is enlightened to the truth in Christ, that suddenly the message changes and is now one of self-denial, even to the point of death. If you notice even though Peter walked with our Lord and was close to Him our Lord didn’t look at him after the flesh, but was quick to point out that what Peter was speaking was contrary to sound doctrine, and even rebuked him openly for it. Though Peter may have meant well and was just being a nice guy, again nice guys (people pleasers) finish last, the Lord was just putting him in his place, despite how close and familiar he may have been to Him. Are you willing to take a stand as well for what you know as truth, so that if someone tries to bring a doctrine into your spiritual house that is contrary you would be just as quick to refute it as well, not letting a little leaven get in and spoil the whole lump? It’s not that you have to browbeat someone with it, but let it be known that it is not of God, and not according to the doctrine of Christ, but that of antichrist. Matthew 16:24-26 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. (25) For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. (26) For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? (KJV) Isn’t it interesting that the Lord is talking about taking up a cross before His own crucifixion, and that in order to be followers of Him we need to do the same? Now does this mean that in order for us to be inheritors of His kingdom we to need to be crucified like He was, or is there some deeper spiritual implication being brought forth? The cross our Lord is referring to in the above verses, is it a physical cross or a spiritual one? Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. (KJV) Are you basing your walk with what you think you should be doing, or are you letting someone else take over and have His way with and in you? Spiritually we are crucifying our own desires and lusts which have kept us in the dark and separated from the love of God. Our salvation is no longer based on works, or how much time we spend or have spent within a religious organization or structure, but we are now walking by faith of the Son of God, Christ, who now lives in us. Is your confidence based more on what you think you are doing on His behalf, or is it based in what He has done on our behalf and the work the He began in you? What new doctrine this truly is; that it no longer involves me, but someone greater who is within me and would like nothing better than to continue working on my behalf despite how it looks or appears to the outward man. Galatians 5:22-25 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, (23) Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. (24) And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. (25) If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. (KJV) What a new way of life this truly is, a new doctrine He brings; that it is no longer looking out for number one, which the world says is self and its interests; but now we are looking to the things of the Spirit to find true joy and peace, the peace of God that goes beyond our own understanding. The more one does truly die to self and its interests, the more one is able to see into the realm of the Spirit, and come to a personal understanding of the mystery of the gospel which is hid to the carnal man but readily available to the spiritual one. Romans 6:5-7 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: (6) Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. (7) For he that is dead is freed from sin. (KJV) Are you dying to get to heaven, or is this new doctrine foolish to you like it was to Peter, and to so many that still try to please our Father by their own works and not according to His working which works and can work in us mightily if we let it? The revelation of Christ and His doctrine is the beginning of a new life in Him, and the end of the old life of misery and heartache in the world. Are you dying for the things of God? Well, that is the only way it can be found. So if you wish to be a partaker of His resurrection and the things of His realm, then like our Lord you to will have to lay down your life spiritually in order to find this new life in Him. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 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)
Do you remember how you were first saved, and entered into the realm of the Spirit? This new found life of love, joy, and peace; was it something you did that made it happen, or was it someone you believed in that made it happen? So if you entered this realm with this simple thinking, would not it be safe to say that in order to remain in this realm it would take a simple faith in Christ to keep you there? And yet with as simple as God made His plan of salvation why do so many fall away again, backslide as some say, and are putting the Lord’s plan of salvation for them to an open shame because they are no longer operating in His realm, but are trying to mix faith and the works of the law, which is like the term awfully good. The carnal mind is enmity with God and cannot be renewed into the things of God because it is foolishness to those that are in the flesh. Some people don’t like pointing the attention to our heavenly Father, but rather enjoy keeping the spotlight on themselves and their works, thinking God needs their help to accomplish His work. 1 Corinthians 2:14-16 But the natural man receiveth 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 judgeth 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) When one is still trying to operate in the things of God according to their own thoughts and ways they will miss the mark and fall away. If one is not able to receive the things of God then obviously they are not going to do those things that are pleasing to Him, but rather they will continue in their quest to satisfy their own carnal desires. Again we see the word discerned; it’s this lack of discernment that causes many to fall back into the abyss of the flesh and its dead end desires. While many should be teaching and instructing others in the realm of the Spirit they have need that one teach them again the spiritual meaning of the word of God. And rather than operating with the mind and understanding of Christ, they are no longer able to function in His realm. Romans 10:1-5 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. (2) For I bear them record that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. (3) For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. (4) For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. (5) For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them. (KJV) Have you ever gone back and read what the Lord thinks of our own righteousness? How about the term self-righteous; which is not very flattering either? So why do so many miss the mark and enter this realm of mission impossible? Once again we see that their carnal thinking gets in the way and distorts the true meaning of God’s plan of salvation for mankind. Rather than submit themselves to right standing with God, which is only in Christ and that new creation being brought forth, many fall away again by trying to establish their own. As we see in verse 4 Christ is the end of the law, because He fulfilled it without sinning so that we wouldn’t have to be held in bondage to it any longer. But as one sees in the end of verse 4 it only works by a simple belief, nothing else. So in the end, those who try to establish a relationship with the Father by the law are those that choose to live or try to live in something that is dead and should be left for dead. Again Church, without faith it is impossible to please God; and once you have stepped out of the realm of faith, or try to add anything else besides faith, like works, you have now fallen under the title of a transgressor. Romans 6:3-6 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? (4) Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. (5) For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: (6) Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. (KJV) When you think of baptism, do you just think of the water ritual, or are you able to discern the true meaning of what our Lord was demonstrating, and the spiritual implications of it? Again, we see similar to circumcision that it is not the outward one that the Lord is looking to, but it is that new creature or creation within you that is important. When you are baptized into Christ you are immersed into His plan of salvation, a new way of life that the believer should be eating, drinking, and partaking of spiritually, not just some one and done ritual. You have now been baptized, and have entered a whole new realm of thinking as well as living, a realm of faith no longer based on your works. You have been planted like a seed into the fertile heavenly ground so that the living waters could bring life to the new creation within you, so that Christ could again be resurrected within you and do those things that are pleasing to God through you. You no longer have to be a servant of sin, falling away into sin, but rather a new creation in Christ. Is your old nature buried with Him and left for dead so that you can be a partaker of the new nature, or are you hanging around the graveyard and digging up the dirt? Remember our God is not a God of the dead, spiritually, but a God of the living. So where are you finding life today; is it in Christ, or are still trying to do it by the works of the law which are no longer alive and in play, but dead and nailed to the cross of Christ? Galatians 3:27-29 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. (28) There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. (29) And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. (KJV) Have you truly put on Christ, or are you just a put on? Those that have truly been baptized, immersed in His living waters, will be walking in a newness of life and not the oldness of the letter which kills and causes one to fall away. If you are truly Christ’s then it can only be by believing in His promise of salvation, and not of works. Ephesians 4:4-6 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; (5) One Lord, one faith, one baptism, (6) One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. (KJV) As we saw in Hebrews 6, that one of the things that was causing people to fall away, was their lack of discernment concerning the doctrine of baptisms. While many still hold to the outward ritual, which one do you believe our Lord is concerned with? Paul narrowed it down to one baptism, which can only be established by one faith and belief in our Lord Jesus Christ. Are you truly baptized into Christ and have put Him on which makes all things possible to them that believe, or are you still holding to the old laws and rituals that make it impossible to please Him? 1 Corinthians 12:13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. (KJV) I will let you decide and discern for yourself so that you no longer will have to fall away, but be able to stay seated in the heavenly places in Christ. God bless and hold fast. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Galatians 6:12-15 As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. (13) For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh. (14) But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. (15) For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. (KJV)
Whether the old law and its rituals manifest in the form of circumcision, water baptisms, or any other outward events, the only thing that matters to God is that new creation within the believer. If one goes back through the Bible, especially the book of Acts, you will see that most of the persecution came from those that claimed to be believers; the problem they had with Paul is that He was bringing forth a new doctrine apart from the works of the law. As we see in verse 14 the only thing Paul was holding to was the work the Lord did on our behalf, and anything else was dead and crucified unto him, as he considered himself to be crucified unto any worldly doctrine of man. It’s no longer about the outward man that is going to bring peace, but rather that new creation in Christ is what has brought forth the restoration and a confidence in His work, and not ours. Galatians 6:12-15 These men who are trying to force you to let yourselves be circumcised simply want to make a fine outward show, only to keep you from being persecuted for the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. (13) Indeed, the very men who let themselves be circumcised do not themselves observe the law. But they simply want you to let yourselves be circumcised, so that they can boast of you as members of their party. (14) But may it never be mine to boast of anything but the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me and I to the world! (15) For neither circumcision nor the lack of it has any value, but only a new creation. (Williams translation) Today we see the same thing going on as was in the early church; rather than hold to the simple truth that it is of faith and not of works, so many cave in to peer pressure, because rather than take a stand they fall away into a realm the Lord said was destroyed and done away. The devil and his workers would like nothing better than to see the simplicity of the gospel of Christ perverted and complicated with a bunch of man-made doctrines and rituals, rather than have the simple truth in Christ. Many today try to seal the deal with these outward rituals so that they too can boast that you are one of theirs because of something they accomplished, and not what the Lord accomplished on their behalf. So what is your priority this day; is it feeding and nurturing that new creation within you, or are you still trying to establish a spiritual relationship based on some outward show? 2 Corinthians 5:16-17 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. (KJV) This is what we have been talking about all week, even though we knew Christ according to the old law and its fleshly or carnal ways, we are no longer to observe Him that way. Once one becomes a new creation in Christ all those old things which He took out of our way and nailed to His cross is passed away; dead, died, and buried. Now our only concern should be for that new man within us and how to do those things that are pleasing to God despite what mankind may think or comprehend as being godly. We should be renewed in the spirit of our mind, having access to the mind of Christ, so that we can continue to walk in this newness of life and not the oldness of the letter of the law which is death. After all, when you stand before the judgment seat of Christ someday what is it that will truly give you access into His eternal realm; the works you thought would impress Him, or allowing Him to do a new work in and through you? Romans 3:20-22 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. (21) But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; (22) Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: (KJV) Here is your justification, a simple faith in what our Lord Jesus Christ did on our behalf, not by some works of the law that we think still needs to be accomplished on His behalf. Where is your faith truly rooted and grounded in people; in something you are going to do, or in a belief in what the Lord is doing in you? This is a faith that will keep you in good standing with our Lord so that you no longer will fall away back into the realm of the flesh, but learn more and more how to stay seated in the realm of the Spirit. Haven’t you heard enough testimonies of people that constantly backslide; people that truly had a zeal for God but obviously it wasn’t according to His knowledge? Many fall away and find that they are not being renewed because they are still under the works of the law where there is still a knowledge of sin, and not a confidence in the work the Lord is doing within them, they are still looking without for the answer. And while there are those that are promising them liberty, many are still the servants of corruption because of their lack of faith in Christ, and the only justification they will find in Him. Romans 3:23-28 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; (24) Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: (25) Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; (26) To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. (27) Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. (28) Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. (KJV) Justified freely by His grace, that is it; that simple folks, nothing else. We are saved by grace through faith and not of works, which truly eliminates any boasting on our part. You have been given a first class ticket to the heavenly realm so that you can escape the corruption of this world and walk in the newness of life that God intended for you. Now all that is left for you to do in order to board this flight is to pass through security, and provide the proper password and documents to get you home. Jesus Christ said that He was the only way home by the truth which will set you free and give you this new life in Him, above and beyond what you could have ever asked or thought about. All aboard? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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