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Good morning. Today's video The Son - Part5 is on the topic of who the Son of God is; the light of the glorious gospel of Christ. 2 Corinthians 4:4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. (KJV) The light that shines out of darkness is Christ who is the Word and the image of God, and where no darkness exists. Christ is the light that lights every man who comes into this world, this included Jesus of Nazareth, and you and I. And even though we were not aware of this light of life until we were born again, Jesus of Nazareth was anointed with the Holy Spirit and with power at conception. Remember, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God (1Cor 1:24). And through his obedience he became the firstborn among many brethren; the firstborn from the dead. John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. (KJV) Acts 10:38 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) God sent His Son to give light to the knowledge of salvation, and to enlighten the eyes of our understanding to who He is, and who His Son is; that you might know the mystery of the kingdom of God which is Christ in you the hope of glory. He sent His Son to restore fellowship with mankind and to restore His image within us. We were once blind to the kingdom and righteousness of God, but now we are children of light in the Lord, and should continue to walk in the light and have fellowship no more with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. Christ gives us light and in Him is no darkness; so if we abide in the light, others will see the glorious gospel of Christ shining forth from us (2Cor 4:1-6). The hidden things of darkness will always be brought to light; whether it is something within us that God is now asking us to overcome, or if it something else that He would have us to avoid. If we come to the light, and we continue to abide in the light, we will be able to discern the hidden things of darkness and avoid them; that includes those who appear as an angel of light, but are the ministers of Satan, deceiving and being deceived, whom you are to avoid, whose end will be according to their works (2Cor 11:13-15). Proverbs 4:18 But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. (KJV) So continue on the path of the just where there is light, and where the God of our Lord Jesus Christ , the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power, which He wrought in Christ, when He raised him from the dead, and set him at His own right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named (Jesus Christ), not only in this world, but also in that which is to come; and has put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all. God bless. You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry. Have a blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good morning. Today's video The Son - Part4 on the topic of who the Son of God is; the complete name of the Son. Jesus Christ is the complete name which God acknowledges and allows you access to His throne. 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. This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (KJV) Many today use only the name of Jesus when they pray, which leaves the door open to the devil to hinder the prayer because they did not close the door with Christ, the power and wisdom of God which cannot be refuted of the devil. In the account of the seven sons of Sceva they tried to cast out evil spirits only in the name of Jesus and as you read the account they were overcome and fled naked out of the house. Acts 19:13-17 Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth. And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so. And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye? And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded. (KJV) Remember that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Jesus Christ tells you who he is, and what his name is. He never said he was God, but always acknowledged God as his Father in heaven. He even said “I am in the Father, and the Father in me”; just as we are in Christ, and Christ is in us (John 15). Matthew 16:15-17 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 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) John 4:22-26 Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he. (KJV) Matthew 24:5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. (KJV) John 17:3-5 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. (KJV) John 20:31 But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name. (KJV) There is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; the name above every name. And in this name, Jesus Christ, we have life and life more abundantly. Without Christ, Jesus could not have overcome the world; and neither can we do anything without Christ. If we abide in Him, He will abide in us; if we deny Him, He will deny us before God; in other words, if we don’t know His Son, then He will not know us. 1 John 3:21-23 Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment. (KJV) 1 John 5:13-15 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him. (KJV) And this is the assurance that we have from God our Father and His Son Jesus Christ. You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry. Have a blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good afternoon. Today's video Another Spirit is continuing on the topic of the second man Adam; Another spirit; Christ in you the hope of glory. You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry. Have a blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Williams New Testament translation for Matthew 6:4-6
4. so that your deed of charity may be secret, and your Father who sees what is secret will reward you. 5. "Also, whenever you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners, to attract the attention of people. I solemnly say to you, they already have their reward. 6. But whenever you, follower of mine, pray, you must go to your most private place, shut the door, and pray to your Father in secret, and your Father who sees what is secret will reward you. God’s realm is different than man’s realm, one is spiritual one is carnal. If you wish to operate in the realm of God then it will take a certain mindset to see into this secret or hidden realm, the mind of Christ. How do you look at people and determine who they truly serve; do you base your assumptions on the outward as many do, or do you look to the secret inward man to make your determination? When you attend an organization do you base your fellowship with them by the size of the building and how nice the people are, or are you looking for something deeper, something with some spiritual depth and truth? 1 John 4:1-4 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. (4) 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. (KJV) Actually there is a test, a simple way to truly determine if someone is of God or what could be categorized as a not exactly, close but this isn’t a game of horseshoes. Remember when the Lord said many are called but few are chosen? Well, we see in the above verses what has happened to the many and is still happening. Simple, but they just don’t pass the test, the spiritual discernment that separates the men from the boys, the can do people and the wannabes. If the teaching and preaching doesn’t focus on Christ, the inward spiritual Son of God that was leading and guiding a man named Jesus, then they haven’t come to a working knowledge of the mystery of the gospel; which sad to say is still a mystery to many. While many teach and preach in the name of Jesus, they in essence have got the cart in front of the horse, or in this case they put more emphasis on the outward than the inward. However if one goes through the New Testament and sees what the mystery of the gospel is and the name that was and still is revealed to God’s people, it goes way beyond just a man named Jesus the son of a carpenter. Those that confess that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh have a personal working knowledge of who the Son of God is and what is the only true hope that will get us access to His kingdom. When I hear people end their prayers in the name of Jesus and those that write books about all the power in his name, it tells me they don’t truly know God or His mystery, a secret that they are still in the dark about. The only way one can be whole and complete, to grow and mature in the things of God, is by knowing the mystery of the kingdom of God which is only found in Christ, while anything less is antichrist. Which if one is not for Him then they are against Him. 1 Timothy 2:5-7 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; (6) Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. (7) Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity. (KJV) You know, if the word of God says there is only one mediator between God and man, and our God is not one to lie, then anything else is just that, a lie. If you were to ask people today what their access code is to their bank account, most everyone would be able to tell you exactly what it is so that they can access it. But ask people what the spiritual access code is to heaven and you will find few that truly know the answer to this secret. Just like with an access code to a bank or a computer, if you leave out any part of it you don’t get access in. Is it any wonder then that the enemy is referred to as the spirit of antichrist and not anti Jesus? You wouldn’t leave any part of your code out to get into a bank account, why would you omit the most important part to get access into your spiritual account as well? Why be half right, when you could be all right? The fact that God used His people to write about His mystery and the sufferings they endured for it as well, it would do you well to give heed to His message and know that the scriptures were given for our benefit to see into His secret realm. 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) Again we see that we should no longer be looking after the flesh or the outward, but rather into the inward new creation to find the answer to the mystery of the kingdom of God. The things of this fallen realm are old news, same o same o, it’s in Christ that all things are new because you have entered a new realm of the Spirit that is eternal. Remember God said that He is a Spirit and so is His Son; so if you are going to know Him and how to operate in His wisdom, it can only be accomplished through Christ that you can be a new creation in Him. God is not a God of the dead but of the living, so old things and old thinking needs to be passed away, dead and buried, so that a new man can resurrect in you. John 4:22-26 Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. (23) But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. (24) God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (25) The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. (26) Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he. (KJV) Many today don’t pass when it comes to the heavenly test because what they call worship is mostly done in vain, something that looks good to the outward but does nothing to further the growth of the inward. Jesus had an answer to a secret, and that answer was in the direction of Christ, the inward new creation that was within Him and is within you also. Here is a test, a homework assignment if you would, go back through the scriptures and see if you can find a common denominator to what the Lord called Himself and what name He gives credence to. After all what better example could we have than the one that already passed the test from above and is now seated at the right hand of the Father? Test the Spirit and know this, that if you don’t know or are unable to pass it today don’t wait until it’s too late to know the secret that will get you access into God’s kingdom. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 3:27-28 John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. (28) Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him. (KJV)
Back in the Lord’s short time here on this earth people were looking for a Messiah to manifest which they thought would take place in the outward realm; some wonderful spectacular event for all the world to see. While many continue today to look in the outward realm also, or as we see in the above verses at other men as their savior; few understand what was truly given to us from the Father which is manifested and brought to light through His Son, the hidden inward man. What are you receiving today; is your information and knowledge coming from above, or are you settling for second hand knowledge of man that is limited by their carnal thinking? Do you know for sure that the steps you take today are of faith; in other words those that God is asking of you, or are you following some man-made plan of salvation that doesn’t quite add up to our Lord’s standards? Salvation is a gift given to mankind from above, and just as you would be offended to give something of value to someone close to you only to find out it wasn’t appreciated or that they didn’t take the time to read the instructions before putting it to use; how it must hurt our Father to have so much to give to mankind only to see it ignored and discarded for a cheap imitation. Psalms 37:23-26 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. (24) Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand. (25) I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread. (26) He is ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed is blessed. (KJV) Where are you heading today, and who is truly directing your path? Are you taking the time to receive your instructions from above knowing they are in order with our Lord, doing the things that are pleasing in His sight? Even though at times we do sin and fall short of the glory, the Lord is not casting us aside but rather like with a parent teaching a child to walk, He is there with His hand outstretched ready to pick us up again and get us back on the path of life. John 15:4-8 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. (5) I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. (6) If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. (7) If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. (8) Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. (KJV) Again we see the word nothing, which without the Lord’s leading and guiding in our walk we cannot do those things that are pleasing in His sight. As a branch grafted into the tree of life the only way we can live and continue in this new life is if we continue to receive our nutrients from the source. As newborn spiritual beings in Christ we need to receive and continue to nurture this new being inside us with spiritual food and drink in order to maintain a healthy relationship with our Father. Those that reject our Lord’s plan of salvation have broken off the line of communication with their Father; they are no longer receiving His living waters and they will dry up and die of thirst, eventually being burned. John 3:14-18 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: (15) That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. (16) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (17) For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. (18) He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. (KJV) God gave us a Savior, and gave Him a name above all names so that those that received this revelation should not perish but have eternal life through this name. Verses 15&16 use the words ‘should not’ not ‘would not’, because the choice is still ours to choose this day who we will truly serve and whether or not we will truly receive the gift of God which is eternal life through His Son Jesus Christ. Acts 4:7-12 And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this? (8) Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, (9) If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; (10) Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. (11) This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. (12) Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (KJV) God gave mankind access to eternal life, and only one name under heaven gives us this life so that we should not perish but receive our eternal reward as well. It’s a given to the people of God who our one mediator between us and God is; as well as the whole name that will make us whole and complete in Him, that being Jesus Christ. It’s a given, have you got it? God bless and 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. Ephesians 4:13-16 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: (14) That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; (15) But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: (16) From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. (KJV)
The whole purpose of those that have been called to the fivefold ministry is to get the people off the milk of the word of God and into sound doctrine, teaching them who they are in Christ. Those that truly know the Lord and how He operates will be pointing the people to Christ and the work He has begun within the inner man, and will not be looking to the outer realm to find peace. Children are gullible, and so are immature Christians, because you can tell them a story or in many places a doctrine, that sounds good but is not based on truth. Another thing you will notice about the worldly doctrines of man is that like the wind they change and alter their stance with the times; thus keeping the congregation stagnant, lost at sea if you would. Those that understand the doctrine of Christ are able to grow up in Him and mature, edifying themselves as well as other members, finding their place within the body and working to build each other up. John 7:16-18 Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. (17) If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. (18) He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him. (KJV) When we were children our only concern was for ourselves, and thus we needed around the clock supervision to keep us from self destructing. Many of mans’ doctrines and those that teach them, like to keep their congregations dependant on them; constantly reminding people of all the good works they are doing for the Lord, and not the other way around. In fact, of all the nerve, some actually put their own names on the ministry which tells you the true intents of the heart, having men’s persons in admiration, pointing the people more towards man than that of the Spirit. The true doctrine of Christ will be pointing the people to God through His Son, and not through some man who claims he represents God because of a large worldly institution he has created or thinks he built on behalf of God. Ephesians 4:17-21 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, (18) Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: (19) Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. (20) But ye have not so learned Christ; (21) If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: (KJV) The carnal mind is enmity with God; it is not able to accept the things of God let alone walk in them. Many today are legends in their own mind, having the mindset that they are pleasing God based on works that they are doing and not on what the Lord would like to be doing on their behalf. Like verse 20 points out, that they have not so learned Christ; the doctrine that points the people to the inward man; that same inward man that operated in Jesus of Nazareth is alive and well, willing to work in you also if you let Him. Today many still look to the outward Jesus and try to imitate Him; even some of the rituals that He partook of, which by the way our Lord was still under the old law and came to fulfill it, and they miss the spiritual implications and meanings of the things He did. Many today still have a mindset of a man that walked this earth, but are not looking to the man within Him, the Son of God, that was able to give life and strengthen Him spiritually. Many today still pray and teach about the name of Jesus and the power of it, and totally ignore Christ; thus why Paul makes the statement that you have not so learned Christ or His doctrine. Romans 1:20-23 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: (21) Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. (22) Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, (23) And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. (KJV) Mankind is without a plausible excuse. God poured out His Spirit upon all flesh, and made His realm readily available to all mankind; the ‘whosoever’s’ that would call upon His name. The problem is that mankind and his vain fallen nature get in the way and distort the meaning and the truth of God, and change it to fit his realm and way of thinking, even to the point of putting man in place of God. Today many still claim Jesus himself was God, the God man if you would, thus trying again to make God in mans’ image instead of the other way around which is what the original intention was. They are trying to change a spiritual being, God, to fit in our realm, rather than teaching the people the doctrine of Christ and how we fit into God’s realm, which is the Spiritual realm that He operates in. It’s because they haven’t learned who Christ is; this is why they keep looking to the outward for the answer rather than the inward; thus distorting and changing the true meaning of God’s plan of salvation; they in essence end up worshipping and serving created beings more than the Creator, not giving credit where the credit truly is due. Ephesians 4:22-24 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; (23) And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; (24) And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. (KJV) There is new man alive and well, and ready to be revealed within you; the truth that sets one free and allows them to be partakers of God’s inheritance, the spiritual blessings that He is pleased to give to His people. This new man is Christ in you the only hope of glory; a spiritual being that is renewing us into a realm of endless riches of wisdom and knowledge, which is only found in Christ and His doctrine which is according to godliness. So stay out of the old; quit looking to the outward; but rather look to the inward man and his needs to find the true love, joy, and peace that is only found in God and those that truly know His doctrine. Learn who Jesus Christ truly is and who you are also; a person that chooses to be led by the Spirit and not by the sleight of men which point people to mans’ work and not to the eternal work God has begun and wishes to continue to do within you. Jude 1:16-19 These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage. (17) But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; (18) How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts. (19) These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. (KJV) Our old nature is corrupt; the spirit is willing it’s our flesh that is weak and falls prey to its deceitful lusts which never satisfy. Many today have mankind and its preachers lifted up on pedestals, and in lofty positions that keep the focus on them and not Christ. The doctrine of Christ will point you to the Father through His Son, keeping the focus on the inner man and not the outward fallen one. Where are you looking today, what realm are seeking your answer from? If it is the doctrine of Christ then all things will be new, and you will find yourself maturing and growing up in the things of God, and weaning yourself from the things of this realm. God’s best and blessings to all. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 16:17-18 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. (18) For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; (KJV)
So how does one know the difference between the doctrine of Christ and that of man? One simple way of knowing is revealed in their messages that are being taught and what realm they are pointing the people to. If the messages are more to the flesh and the things of that realm then it is not of God, but rather self serving ones that appeal more to the flesh than the Spirit. If the messages are constantly telling the people how much one is doing for the Lord, or basically how literally the Lord couldn’t operate without them, that would be a sign of a doctrine that should not be welcomed into one’s house but rather discarded. Not only should one be avoiding these messages, but one should definitely not be bidding them God speed or God bless; giving credence to their doctrine as if it came from God. Strong’s definition for God speed: 5463 chairo (khah'-ee-ro); a primary verb; to be "cheerful", i.e. calmly happy or well-off; impersonally, especially as salutation (on meeting or parting), be well: KJV-- farewell, be glad, God speed, greeting, hall, joy (-fully), rejoice. 2 Timothy 4:2-4 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. (3) For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; (4) And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. (KJV) Be prepared for opposition; because when you bring this doctrine of Christ to a fallen world many are not interested in dying to self, but rather they are looking to lift up themselves rather than the name of Christ. So for every taste, for every lust of the flesh, there are those that are willing to compromise and bring a doctrine that will suit their flesh, thus cutting the life off to the Spirit. For many claim this idea of crucifixion and dying was fine for the Lord and His apostles, but it is not something we need to concern ourselves with anymore; and it does not go over to well with the congregation either. So in order to keep the congregation happy, which by the way means a happy congregation is a happy giver, one needs to keep this stuff about dying spiritually out of the teaching and keep it in the realm of the new age stuff of a life of prosperity in the flesh. Isaiah 30:9-11 That this is a rebellious people, lying children, children that will not hear the law of the LORD: (10) Which say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits: (11) Get you out of the way, turn aside out of the path, cause the Holy One of Israel to cease from before us. (KJV) Don’t think for a moment that this stuff hasn’t been going on for a long time; rather than teach and hold to sound doctrine the devil and his workers have been infiltrating God’s field with false workers, teaching things they shouldn’t be teaching; many times for filthy lucre’s sake; the love of money drowning out the love of God which was what the real intention should have been in the first place. So are you learning and hearing more about the things of God and the doctrine of Christ in the places you worship at, or is it more of a Mr. Rogers teaching nice things, a smooth way of life? Are you hearing more about the Christ in you the only hope of glory, or are you being pointed and directed elsewhere for the answer, mostly to man’s work and not the working the Lord has begun within you? 1 John 4:1-4 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. (4) 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. (KJV) When you look at your fellow mankind that is around you, are looking at the outward appearance, or are you looking to the Spirit to see what doctrine they are bringing forth? Are they truly teaching and preaching Jesus Christ and the good work He has begun and continues to do within you, or are they pointing you elsewhere, mostly keeping the focus and attention on themselves and away from the Lord? Do you know the difference for yourself so that you will not be taken in by these false doctrines; but rather are able to rightly divide the word of truth for yourself by the leading and guidance of the Spirit of Christ which is within you, and should be your only source for truth? The only way you will be able to overcome and be more than a conqueror is by this greater teaching and doctrine which is within each and every believer; not by looking to those of the world that are being deceived, and deceiving by their carnal understanding and not a spiritual one. So what has the greater influence on you today; the doctrine of Christ or the many man-made ones that claim much, but deliver of so little on His behalf? Philippians 2:12-15 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. (13) For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. (14) Do all things without murmurings and disputings: (15) That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; (KJV) It is up to you to seek the Lord for yourself, and to come to a working knowledge of Him, by looking inwardly and not relying so much on the outward anymore. It is God; by His working and the doctrine of Christ that is working and is willing to work within you so that you can be blameless and harmless, teaching and being an example of the believers in truth, allowing the light of the glorious gospel of Christ to shine in you and enlighten those around you as well. Are you allowing God to have His way in you so that He can continue to do those things that are pleasing in His sight through you, or have you shut off the only source of life by trying to follow some man-made doctrine that is more self serving than God serving? Philippians 1:3-6 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, (4) Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, (5) For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; (6) Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: (KJV) My prayer for each and every believer today is that they will continue in the simple doctrine of Christ, and continue in the confidence of what He has done for them and not what many others claim they are doing on His behalf. Keep it simple saints; your answer in your search for truth is within you, in the doctrine of Christ, which will bring life to your spirit man and keep you built up in Him, and not falling for man’s cheap imitations and self-serving doctrines. 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 6:1-3 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, (2) Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. (3) And this will we do, if God permit. (KJV)
Hebrews 6:1-3 So then let us once for all quit the elementary teaching about Christ and continue progressing toward maturity; let us stop relaying a foundation of repentance from works that mean only death, and of faith in God, (2) of teaching about ceremonial washings and the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead and final judgment. (3) And we will progress, if God permits. (Williams NT) Thayer’s definition for doctrine: 1322 didache- 1) teaching a) what is taught b) doctrine, teaching, concerning something 2) the act of teaching, instruction We have all grown up and heard different versions of Christianity, whether through things we saw on TV or heard on the radio, as well as any denomination we were brought up in and told to be truth. Some of us may have been given sound doctrine early on and given a foundation to work with; while others like myself were thrown a curve ball right from the start, being indoctrinated into a belief that although it has a huge following in this country is very far removed from the truth. I was brought up in a doctrine that claimed of all things, that in order to pray to God it had to be done through a woman named Mary; which as I found out later was the mother of all lies, and totally contrary to sound doctrine and what the word of God clearly tells us concerning who the one mediator between God and man is, Christ Jesus. The only way for one to grow and mature in the Lord and get past these dead works is to know the doctrine of Christ, the one doctrine which God acknowledges as truth which will set you free and allow you to progress in your walk and mature. Many are still holding to the basic principles that Christ taught during His ministry because they haven’t discerned the spiritual meaning or implications of His doctrine. This is what the writer of Hebrews was bringing across to the people, and why he writes what he did in the end of chapter 5. Hebrews 5:12-14 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. (13) For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. (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) There are a lot of people that you will see hanging around certain fellowships and organizations that claim they know God and have known Him for a long time, and they base their salvation more on seniority, because of having spent so much time in a church they consider themselves mature Christians. The truth be known though, many of these self proclaimed teachers actually need to be reeducated themselves, because rather than coming to an understanding of the mystery of the gospel which is only found in Christ, they have held and continue to hold to the outward rituals, not understanding the spiritual implications of those things the Lord spoke of. The Lord spoke in parables, describing and using examples of things in this realm to explain the things that were to take place in the spiritual realm, the place we should now be operating and maturing in. Many still hold to the old way of thinking; and rather than letting go of the old they still hang on, and are not truly able to partake of the new. The doctrine of Christ differs greatly from what man has and is continuing to teach and preach, because for one to operate in the realm of the Spirit they have to die to this one, which is where many draw the line and no longer continue moving forward. Do you know for yourself what is sound doctrine; what the spiritual meaning and implications of the word of God truly is for yourself; and how you need to be learning to walk more in the Spirit on a daily basis, relying more on the spiritual senses and less on your physical ones? Are you truly growing and maturing in the things of God on a daily basis, or has your walk been stagnant, and you have been settling for the ‘whatever will be, will be’ mindset? There is strong spiritual meat available to those that are truly seeking it; and there is a doctrine that will truly bring life to those that are willing not only to be hearers of the word of God but doers also. So are you hanging around some back alley organization like youngsters waiting for something to happen, or are you looking for an escape from the dead end doctrines you thought would bring life but have only led to another dead end? 2 John 1:7-11 For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. (8) Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. (9) Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. (10) If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: (11) For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. (KJV) Ever wonder why it is a spirit of antichrist and not antijesus? It is Christ in you the only hope of glory that we should be looking for as our answer, and no longer looking to the outward to find the truth. While there are so many doctrines and teachings that surround us on a daily basis, the Bible is quite clear to point out that it is only the doctrine of Christ that God gives credence to and acknowledges to be His. So if someone comes to you like we see in verse 10 with any other doctrine, don’t allow it into your spiritual house or temple, but rather cast it aside. We are to no longer know no man after the flesh but after the Spirit; so no matter who this person claims to be, or even if it is someone we are close to or familiar with, we need to see them from the eyes of the Lord and know if it is a spirit of antichrist approaching us in the form of mankind claiming to be speaking and teaching on behalf of God. This Church, is what separates the men from the boys, those that have the eyes of their understanding enlightened because they are looking at the teaching and doctrine to see if it lines up with the word of God. If it is not the doctrine of Christ then they do not welcome it into their house, as well as those that wish to preach it; which sometimes can end up to be those that have been near and dear to you physically, but are not edifying to you spiritually. Another hint that lets you know if it is the doctrine of Christ is what Paul said himself, that if he seeks to please man then he cannot be the servant of Christ, but is nothing more than an ear tickling people pleaser. So where are you looking for truth and what is your source to find it; will you continue looking to man and his numerous ways and doctrines, or will you seek it from the source Himself, Jesus Christ, the only way of escape from this present evil world by His truth which will set one free and bring life to our spirit man which will make one complete and whole in Him? In conclusion today, how do you judge a situation or a person; by the outward or the inward? While many make their determination based on the phrase ‘he is a nice guy’, be reminded the devil comes at people with a slick nice guy approach bringing a doctrine that is too good to be true, which in the end is not based on the truth, but a fabrication of it. The devil has been playing this nice guy approach from the beginning, which will be the end for those that give ear to it and fall for a cheap imitation and not the real deal, Christ in you the only hope of glory. Besides, remember where nice guys (people pleasers) finish? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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