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Ephesians 4:11-15 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;(12) For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: (3) Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: (14) That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; (15) But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: (KJV)
There are some today that claim there are no more apostles and prophets, and no more miracles because they ceased after the disciples and the work they accomplished. But if you look at the above verses we see they are given and called by God for the work of the ministry to help build up the body of Christ and teach them how to grow and mature in Him. So simply put, as long as there is a body of believers in Christ, and as long as there is a ministry work being done, then nothing could be further from the truth than to think that there are no more apostles and prophets out there still answering the call. The reason people preach this nonsense is because they haven’t answered their own call to the ministry work, and have limited God by what others tell them and not what the spirit of God would be speaking. Many think of a prophet as one that just speaks of future events or someone the Lord has worked a miracle through; and because they don’t see it for themselves then they think it doesn’t work for others. Matthew 16:1-4 The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven. (2) He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. (3) And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? (4) A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed. (KJV) The Lord Himself was confronted with those that limited the things of God by the outward, not realizing the plan of salvation that would be manifested to the believers by an inward change. Many today are looking for some outward sign and miracle, and fall short of their calling because they miss the greatest miracle of all, which is salvation, and being able to be born again into the realm of the Spirit. Things that were previously hidden and unable to be understood by man are now being unveiled and revealed to them through the Spirit, and the miracle of this new life and beginning. The Old Testament prophets could only speak as the Holy Spirit came upon them, and delivered the message of a Messiah that God would send for the salvation of the world. The New Testament prophets are the ones that should be teaching the Church the mystery of the gospel, and enlightening them to the Messiah that has come; pointing them in the direction of the spiritual realm, and to quit looking for an outward manifestation or sign. God is still more than capable of miracles; which to us they are awe inspiring but to Him it’s just business as usual. The question is ‘where are you looking for the answer to the mystery of the gospel; will you keep looking for an outward sign or will you seek the inward confirmation that will build a firm foundation for you to stand on’? Luke 17:20-21 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: (21) Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. (KJV) People today still look at Jesus the man and the demonstration of the power of God he allowed to work through him, which was only done by the spirit of Christ within Him. Today many still teach and preach the blessings of God and relate it only to the outward manifestations they can see, totally ignoring all the spiritual blessings we have been blessed with which are in the heavenly places, and can only be found by those that are able to operate within the realm of the Spirit. Matthew 10:7-8 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. (8) Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give. (KJV) Before our conversion we were all spiritually sick. Spiritually we were like the lepers; which when they contracted the disease, had to be separated from others so as not to spread this deadly disease. We have all been raised from the dead spiritually, and are able to walk in a newness of life leaving the old ways and the old man behind us. I am able to cast down every negative imagination of the devil which he would try to mislead me with, by the renewing of my mind so that I can operate with the mind of Christ. With all that is available in the spiritual realm, why are so many still looking for an outward sign in a realm where the Lord said He wouldn’t be found? Freely we have received this gift of Christ and freely we should be distributing it; which is why I don’t understand why so many have put a price tag on the word of God. If one is truly called of God and preaching His word then they will be distributing it freely without fleecing the flock and making merchandise of them. Ephesians 3:3-5 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, (4) Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) (5) Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; (KJV) Obviously this mystery that Paul wrote about, ministering to the Church his personal knowledge of Christ, is still a mystery to many which claim there are no more prophets today. As long as there is the Church, the body of believers still left here, there will be those that are still called to this position; the question is, will they answer the call in the Spirit, or will they miss out because they seek the answer in the flesh. Paul found his answer in the realm of the Spirit, and wrote to the Church that is in Christ, the Son of God, that this mystery is only revealed through a personal knowledge in Christ. Ephesians 3:6-10 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel: (7) Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power. (8) Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; (9) And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: (10) To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, (KJV) The answer is in Christ. Those that have been called to His ministry will not limit their calling to what man tries to dictate; rather they will come to a personal knowledge of the mystery of the gospel so that they not only can see for themselves the unsearchable riches in Christ, but continue to teach others and allow the truth in Him to still be in play. The manifold wisdom of God is still available to all that would seek a relationship with the Father; but it can only be accomplished by those that seek to worship Him in spirit and in truth. Don’t limit God, and don’t be taken in by these false doctrines of man that have chosen to limit Him and their own calling, but rather walk by faith and let Him reveal Himself to you. God bless and keep the faith. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 3:5-7 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. (6) That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. (7) Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. (KJV)
The two births are a result of two different seeds, one is of the flesh and one is of the Spirit. As one grows and matures in the Lord they wean themselves from the things of this world and become more dependent on the things of the Lord. As children in the flesh, our desires were things that appealed to the flesh without any thought of its consequences. Whatever looked good, sounded good, and appealed to the outward is what we pursued after. You have a spiritual seed within you that was brought to life and resurrected by your hearing the word of God, the living waters that are able to nourish a spiritual seed. It is vital now that you learn how to nurture that seed within and to be able to discern what it takes to bring it to maturity. The effort and diligence you put in the past to feed the flesh and its desires will now have to be redirected to the inward seed if you wish to see this seed grow to maturity. 1 Timothy 3:16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. (KJV) Jesus of Nazareth was a man born of the flesh after the seed of David and the first to be reborn in the Spirit to manifest God’s plan of salvation to all mankind. This is a great mystery and continues to be to this day because so many are looking to the outward for some great savior, when in fact this Savior will only become a reality to those in the Spirit. Of these two, God is able to make one new man so making peace; bringing the plan of reconciliation to a fallen world. Romans 8:15-17 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) It takes one to know one. In other words, are you allowing the Spirit to bear witness with your spirit, to give an eyewitness account to the things of God, to give life and nourishment to the inner man so that you can receive the reward of adoption? Do you take the time on a daily basis in the word of God so that you too can be justified in the Spirit, despite what you may suffer from those that seek their justification from man? You are now a joint heir with Christ, the first born of all creation, so that you too can be glorified with Him and receive your eternal inheritance. Romans 1:3-4 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; (4) And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead: (KJV) One is born of flesh, Jesus of Nazareth; the other seed is the Son of God (Christ) which is where our power source comes from. If any man has not the Spirit of Christ he is none of His and is unable to walk in the newness of life given them. Just as we have parents in the flesh to nurture their newborn child, we have a Father in heaven that is ready, willing and able to nurture and feed His newborn offspring as well. As we require daily nourishment for the outward man, it is vital to feed the inward man also if one is to grow strong in the Lord and the power of His might. Adam was put in the garden of Eden to dress it and keep it. You have a spiritual garden as well that takes a constant maintenance plan so that you don’t end up on the outside looking in. Do you know the difference between the flesh and the Spirit? Do you seek the things that will feed your spirit man or are you still chasing cheap, short lived, emotional fixes that only appease the flesh and not the Spirit? You wouldn’t abandon your own offspring and leave it for dead; so why do many abandon God’s offspring and leave it for dead? A parent in the flesh can be tried and convicted for child abandonment, and someday you will have to give an account of what you have done with the seed of God that was reborn in you; and hopefully when the going got tough you didn’t bail out on the Son either. Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. (KJV) In December each year when so many talk of the birth of the Savior, we see much of the attention focused on the physical seed and not the spiritual. A child that was born in this realm was Jesus of Nazareth and the Son given to us is Christ which is in you and is our only hope of glory. So, where is your focus today and what realm are you looking into in order to nourish the new birth within you? Are you blindly following the traditions and doctrines of man which claim some days are more special than others, or are you walking in the peace of God that is available to any and at any time for those that seek to worship Him in Spirit and in truth? God is not a god of the dead and their dead end doctrines, but a God of the living, those that live in the Spirit and seek their justification by faith. John 8:31-37 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; (32) And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. (33) They answered him, We be Abraham's seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free? (34) Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. (35) And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. (36) If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. (37) I know that ye are Abraham's seed; but ye seek to kill me, because my word hath no place in you. (KJV) Many still claim they are of God according to their physical birthright and end up neglecting their spiritual one. It doesn’t matter to God what your family name is in the flesh, its only those that are joint heirs with Christ and follow His example that are born free and continue in the freedom of knowing the truth set forth in the word of God. Once you have been set free it is up to you to continue walking in the liberty in Christ and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Psalms 25:14 The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant. (KJV)
We have talked this week about evidence. Our faith is established by the things that are not seen outwardly, but rather revealed inwardly. There is a secret that is of the Lord which is revealed to those that fear or reverence Him, and respect the calling they have from Him. The secret is a mystery to those outside of God’s kingdom, but clearly visible and understood by those within His realm. So where are you looking for the answer to this secret? Have you sought it out in the word of God to find this evidence, or are you seeking it from some other source that cannot give an eyewitness account of this answer? Romans 16:25-26 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, (26) But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith: (KJV) The Old Testament prophets wrote of a Messiah that would come and bring salvation to a fallen mankind; a ministry of reconciliation that was kept secret, but now made manifest to all. The New Testament prophets now speak of a Messiah that has come and made this secret available to all that come to a working knowledge of Jesus Christ and the revelation of this mystery by the eyewitness accounts of those that are able to look into the realm of the Spirit. Ephesians 3:2-5 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: (3) How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, (4) By which, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) (5) Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; (KJV) The calling of Paul and the writings God gave to him, were pointing to his own personal eyewitness account of the mystery of Christ and his spiritual insights into this. Many people can give an account of Jesus of Nazareth, the son of a carpenter, the son of Joseph and Mary, all based on the outward appearance. But as we see in the above verses, the mystery is of Christ, the hidden man within, and the knowledge of this secret is revealed to His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; in other words, it takes one to know one. You have to be in the Spirit to get to know a spiritual being. So, what is being revealed to you, and where are you looking to find the answer to this secret? Are you looking to man to solve this mystery, or will you go to the source to find the answer that eludes the carnal thinking? Isaiah 45:3 And I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places, that thou mayest know that I, the LORD, which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel. (KJV) Call it a treasure hunt if you like; the Bible being your treasure map. Like with many treasures of gold, silver, and other precious metals of man, they are hidden in the earth and need to be sought and dug out if one is to claim its riches. God has hidden His plan of salvation and all the treasures of His wisdom and knowledge in Christ; and all those that seek Him and understand this revelation will find the answer to this eternal mystery. Mark 4:21-23 And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick? (22) For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad. (23) If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. (KJV) There is no excuse, and no reason why you can’t find this answer. God has made it manifest and available to all. Now the question is, where are you looking for the answer, who are you seeking it from, and with what ears are you listening with? A spiritual mystery requires a spiritual revelation, a light to shine in your heart and give you the knowledge you seek after. You need to keep your spiritual ears in tune, and the volume turned up so that you can hear the message delivered by Christ and find all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge in Him. Without faith (our ability to hear this message and the revelation of the mystery of Christ) it is impossible to please God, and to know the secret that has been kept hidden in the spiritual realm but ready to be revealed to those that worship God in spirit and in truth. Romans 1:16-19 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. (17) For in it is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. (18) For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; (19) Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. (KJV) Once you come to an understanding of this mystery and the power of God available through the gospel of Christ, it is up to you to hold fast to this message delivered by Him and not lose sight of this revelation. One way or the other God will reveal Himself to all mankind; the question now is, will you allow Him to do so by faith, or will you fall away and see it revealed through His wrath? Now playing at a spiritual theatre near you; the revelation of the mystery of God, or the wrath of God, which screening will you attend? Once you have sat through a showing of the mystery, it is up to you to go forth and give an accurate eyewitness account of what took place, and how this mystery is solved, so that the secret of the Lord will no longer be a secret, but will be common knowledge to those that are looking to find the answer for themselves. Want to know a secret; better yet, know the answer so that it doesn’t remain a secret any longer? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (KJV)
There is something hidden, ready to be revealed in the Spirit, and all the evidence is pointing that way. We have a Father in heaven. But did you know He has an accomplice, someone working with Him, someone who is very vital in solving this mystery? It will take your spiritual senses to solve the case, and bring you into the realm where it takes place. Matthew 11:25-27 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. (26) Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight. (27) All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him. (KJV) No man knows the Son or the Father, unless it is personally revealed to them. You can’t have one without the other, they work in unison together. Ever wonder why there are so many different denominations and so called faiths out there; so much false evidence without substance that misleads and causes confusion? Despite all the different names and titles given to the Father, He has spelled out who He truly is to those that are truly seeking Him, those that desire to worship Him in spirit and in truth. Definition for reveal (from Thayer’s): 601 apokalupto- 1) to uncover, to lay open what has been veiled or covered up, to disclose, to make bare 2) to make known, to make manifest, to disclose what before was unknown 2 Corinthians 3:14-17 But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ. (15) But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. (16) Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away. (17) Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. (KJV) Up to this point there has been something covering the evidence, and blinding the minds of those seeking to find it. Today that same spiritual vail covers the heart and is only taken away in Christ. So despite where the word of God points us to, no matter what labels and titles they try to give to the Father, He is quite clear to let us know that all the evidence is pointing us to Christ, the Son of God; and those that come to a personal knowledge of Him will unlock the mystery of the gospel. Luke 2:25-32 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. (26) And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ. (27) And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, (28) Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, (29) Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: (30) For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, (31) Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; (32) A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. (KJV) To this day many still see a child named Jesus. In fact in December every year there are many nativity scenes that depict this. Isn’t it interesting that the one person that was led by the Spirit was able to see the Lord’s Christ; in other words, he was being pointed to something other than the outward appearance of what everyone else saw, a personal revelation brought forth by the Spirit of God. Many in temples today seek their answer to the mystery of the gospel in the outward realm, and miss the clues that are unlocked from within. Colossians 2:2-3 That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; (3) In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. (KJV) Definition for mystery (from Thayer’s): 3466 musterion- 1) hidden thing, secret, mystery a) generally mysteries, religious secrets, confided only to the initiated and not to ordinary mortals b) a hidden or secret thing, not obvious to the understanding c) a hidden purpose or counsel; secret will: All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hid in Christ. This revelation is the key that will unlock this hidden treasure and allow you to have access to God’s eternal spiritual riches. To have this comfort and assurance, to remove the vail that blinds the heart, one needs to come to a working knowledge of Christ in order to access the Father. It’s a package deal, and you can’t have one without the other. It’s like having a great looking car but no engine underneath the hood; it’s time to open the hood and check beneath the exterior to make sure you have the power to run this race. Galatians 1:11-12 But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. (12) For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. (KJV) All the evidence is pointing to the Father. However, in order to access the Father you have to know His Son. Like Paul wrote, that is when it becomes personal. The plan of salvation was originated in the heavenly realm and manifested to us through the Son; the one mediator between God and man. Unless you are able to see this revelation for yourself, you will not know the Father or His Son, and will find yourself in darkness and confusion. Galatians 1:16-17 To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood: (17) Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus. (KJV) Paul found that the answer to this mystery came straight from the source; and instead of running to man he received the message first hand, which is why the Lord used him to write many of the epistles. Unless you take the time to hear Father first hand, and be willing to let Him reveal Himself to you personally, you will never come to an intimate relationship with Him, but rather the Bible will be just interesting accounts of how God worked in other people’s lives and not yours. When the word of God becomes real and personal, you will find that in your studies you can relate to those who God used in the Bible because you are able to see how it relates to you as well. Similar to reading a mystery novel, you are able to see the clues hidden within, and understand which way the author is pointing to solve this mystery and keep you on the right path. Colossians 1:25-28 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; (26) Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: (27) To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: (28) Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: (KJV) While many run to and fro looking to man to find the answer to this mystery, Paul found that it was within him all the time; and by looking within and accessing the Father through the Son he was able to see what had been hid to the outward man, but revealed to the inward one. All wisdom refers not only to this realm, but a wisdom that is from above, to allow us to see beyond the vail of the flesh into the spiritual; which is how we may present ourselves perfect, mature in Christ Jesus also. Ephesians 3:8-9 Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; (9) And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: (KJV) As we can see again, Paul writes of his conversion and the calling he was asked to fulfill. Paul was well versed in the old law, and how so many were trying to tap into the unsearchable riches of Christ through it and the works of it. Simply put, his calling was to make all men see and be able to partake of this mystery which has been hid from the beginning, but now the answer is ready to be revealed to all those that seek God with a pure heart. It’s a package deal; a two for one special; no man knows who the Father is unless it is revealed to them through the Son. And until you come to a working knowledge and find the answer to this mystery it will continue to be hid (to those that seek anywhere else but in the realm of the Spirit). So grab your spiritual magnifying glass and take a closer look into the word of God, and find out where the evidence is leading you, and get an eyewitness first-hand account into this mystery. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Hebrews 11:1-2 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (2) For by it the elders obtained a good report. (KJV)
Ever watch a detective show where someone shows up at the scene and uses their senses to determine what took place. To unravel a mystery, the clues they look for may be things that are unseen to the naked eye, but revealed with the use of special tools to help them identify the evidence. A microscope can magnify and identify things that were right there all the time but unseen to the naked eye; if properly put to use it can point them in the right direction. Consider yourself a spiritual detective; from this point on you are now assigned to find out the mystery of the gospel, to determine for yourself God’s plan of salvation, and know the difference between the guilty and the innocent. God’s plan of salvation has been hidden to the carnal man, but is ready to be revealed to the spiritual one that is willing to seek Him with all their heart. The word substance means assurance and confidence in the right evidence, which will make it more evident as one matures. 1 Corinthians 2:7-9 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: (8) Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. (9) But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. (KJV) This narrows the list of suspects down and points us in the right direction. Try as so many do, and as we all have been taught prior to our conversion, the answer to this mystery is not in the realm of man. So many have judged things according to their outward sight and vision, which can only give them a partial glimpse at the evidence, and not a complete vision which will keep them on the right trail. 1 Corinthians 2:10-12 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. (11) For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. (12) Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. (KJV) Sometimes it can only take some small piece of evidence to crack the case wide open and unravel the mystery that was hidden. Some piece of evidence that was there all the time, yet overlooked and rejected because it seemed too simple or insignificant; basically the way our Lord was treated when He brought this plan of salvation to mankind. Now as verse 12 points to, this evidence is of a spiritual nature and can only be solved by those that operate and walk by a faith; unseen to the outward eye, but quite evident to the inward. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. (17) For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; (18) While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. (KJV) Don’t give up; keep on the trail, your headed in the right direction. The enemy will try to detour you with lies and deceptions, planting false evidence that looks enticing but leads to a dead end. As long as you keep gathering the evidence on a daily basis you will build a case that is rock solid and will hold up in God’s court. Remember to keep looking in the eternal realm so that you can allow faith (our ability to believe in the message delivered by Christ) to lead and guide you on the path of life that will bring a victorious conclusion to your case. Will you let His spirit be the deciding factor in all your decisions? Or will you follow man made planted evidence left by a thief and a robber? Luke 10:21-24 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight. (22) All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him. (23) And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see: (24) For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them. (KJV) A crime took place thousands of years ago; mankind disobeyed the Creator and was imprisoned in the physical realm and cut off from our spiritual Father. God in turn was longsuffering and kind enough to send us His Son, to give us an eyewitness account of the reconciliation that would be manifest in the spiritual realm. When a detective is assigned to a case the first thing he does is try to find an eyewitness so that he can get an accurate account of what took place, and then begin his investigation from this report. Although the evidence may not always point us in a direction we think looks right, it takes confidence and an assurance in the account of what was given in order to stay on the right path. Where are you looking for your answers? Are you still trying to comprehend things with your own thinking, or are you willing to look into the spiritual realm in order to build a solid case that will not fall apart in time of trial? Galatians 3:1-4 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? (2) This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? (3) Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? (4) Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain. (KJV) Another crime took place some two thousand years ago. God sent us an eyewitness to His kingdom to reveal His plan of salvation, only to have mankind crucify Him for speaking the truth. Today, many still crucify His doctrine and give out false information, pointing people in the wrong direction by claiming to be walking a spiritual path of life, when in reality they are being misled with false carnal evidence. The devil and his workers continue to try to cover up their crimes, leading people further from the truth which was intended to set them free from the prison of sin. Ephesians 1:17-20 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: (18) The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, (19) And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, (20) Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, (KJV) Jesus Christ is your spiritual magnifying glass to magnify the truth in Him, and bring an enlightenment of the wisdom and knowledge of God; which is hid to the carnal man, but quite evident and spiritually eye opening to the inner one. For when the time we ought to be teachers, (for those that have been on the case and have had ample opportunity to solve it and bring an accurate account of God’s plan of salvation to His people with the spiritual evidence that will clear them and set them free) many have ignored His eyewitness account and built their case on flimsy circumstantial evidence that will not hold up. God hid his plan of salvation in plain sight for those that wish to seek Him with their heart and not their carnal mind. Keep looking; continue digging and you will find the clues that will unlock the mystery that eludes mankind, but is ready to be revealed to all that are willing to seek in the realm of the Spirit. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Ever watch a mystery movie or TV program, how it twists and turns, until the identity of the main character is revealed, which explains the whole program and ties it all together? So who is that mystery man that Paul the apostle wrote about, who will give you a personal insight into the kingdom of God as well?
Romans 1:3-4 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; (4) And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead: (KJV) Jesus of Nazareth was a man well known as the son of a carpenter, as well as the son of Mary with numerous brothers and sisters; not much of a mystery there. In fact to this day, the name Jesus is still a popular name among many. So where then and what would be the mystery that is hidden, and do we have access to that information as well? Ephesians 3:3-5 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, (4) Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) (5) Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; (KJV) It’s the mystery of Christ, the Son of God that each and every believer needs to come into contact with in order to see and understand God’s plan of salvation, ready to unfold before your own eyes, revealing the true identity of the Son. Thayer’s definition for mystery: 3466 musterion- 1) hidden thing, secret, mystery a) generally mysteries, religious secrets, confided only to the initiated and not to ordinary mortals b) a hidden or secret thing, not obvious to the understanding c) a hidden purpose or counsel; secret will: 1) of men 2) of God: the secret counsels which govern God in dealing with the righteous, which are hidden from ungodly and wicked men but plain to the godly 2) in rabbinic writings, it denotes the mystic or hidden sense: of an Old Testament saying, of an image or form seen in a vision, of a dream Being that God is a Spirit, then it is only fitting to realize that His only begotten Son is Spirit as well. Though many look to the outward man for the answer to the mystery, the secret of God is within, Christ in you the hope of glory. Colossians 2:2-3 That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; (3) In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. (KJV) In Christ is hidden a treasure chest of wisdom and knowledge, a spiritual enlightenment to the things of God, hidden to the carnal man, but ready to be revealed in the Spirit. Isaiah 9:6-7 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. (7) Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. (KJV) The son of man, Jesus of Nazareth was born, to be led by the Son of God given, Christ, so that He could manifest God’s plan of salvation to all mankind. Colossians 4:3-4 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: (4) That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. (KJV) Sometimes when reading a mystery novel, or watching a movie, the answer that reveals the main character is simple, sometimes unexpected, yet hidden in plain sight. Are you looking for the answer in the spiritual, or still trying to comprehend it by your natural understanding? 1 Corinthians 2:7-10 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: (8) Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. (9) But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. (10) But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. (KJV) Many today still crucify the meaning of the Word, God’s plan of salvation, because they seek to justify themselves in the flesh, and not by the Spirit, which is mysterious to say the least. Romans 8:7-9 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. (8) So, then, they that are in the flesh cannot please God. (9) But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. (KJV) The mind is a terrible thing to waste, and if one does not have a working knowledge of who Christ is, and how to operate in the spiritual realm, then they are not one of His, but rather a mystery to Him as well. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 2:14-16 But the natural man receives not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 15 But he that is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. 16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ. (KJV)
Mankind has dreamed up many denominations which are not built on Christ; the only foundation and doctrine God acknowledges as truth. Many of mans’ concoctions are foolish to say the least, because they are operating in a realm that is enmity with God, that being the carnal or natural one. You can break free from that bondage by knowing who you are in Christ and the gospel that removes these spiritual blinders. John 14:26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. (KJV) The Comforter will bring comfort to you when you rely more on the teaching from above and less by what man has tried to pawn off as truth. We have established this week the name which is being revealed to mankind so that we can know for sure who we are getting our gospel from, that being the name which is above all names, Jesus Christ. The job of the Comforter is not only to teach us all things, but to bring to remembrance the answer to be given to any man that would ask us of the hope of the gospel within us. Luke 21:13-15 And it shall turn to you for a testimony. 14 Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer: 15 For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist. (KJV) All those in Christ shall suffer persecution from those that don’t know Christ yet try to justify themselves as being a part of the kingdom of God. I bring this up because I hear many today who get caught up in Bible memorization, in other words they are operating in a realm our Lord said is contrary to His, that being the carnal mind. The peace of God and the answer of the tongue comes to the heart first through the Holy Spirit, and then renews the mind, not the other way around. Mark 13:11-13 But when they shall lead you, and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not you that speak, but the Holy Ghost. 12 Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death. 13 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. (KJV) Today would be a good day to start relying more on the inward man, and less on the outward man. Our Lord would like to speak through His people, if only they would let Him. Proverbs 16:1-3 The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, are from the LORD. 2 All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weighs the spirits. 3 Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. (KJV) All this week we have been on the topic of the mystery of the gospel and what is being revealed from the heart of God to the heart of His people. We see our Lord speaks to the heart first, which then renews the mind. Whose answer are you giving today and do you know for sure who it is coming from? God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Galatians 1:6-8 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. (KJV)
It doesn’t matter who or what source the enemy uses to deceive God’s people, the key is knowing, why is he so against the gospel of Christ? Obviously it is a threat to his kingdom because it shows the people how to be more than conquerors and how to triumph over the power the enemy previously had on them. Ephesians 4:13-16 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ: 14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; 15 But speaking the truth in love may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: 16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplies, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, makes increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. (KJV) If you desire to be heading in the right direction, then it would be in your best interest to know who God put as the head of His church. Today I see many advances in the field of prosthetics, where a certain part of the body is cut off and replaced with something that makes it function. However, I have yet to see anyone decapitated having the head replaced, which is what mankind does when they leave out the gospel of Christ; you’re basically left with a dead body. Ephesians 5:23-25 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the savior of the body. 24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. 25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; (KJV) You know, if you desire to move ahead in your walk then it would be in your best interest to know who God put as the head of the Church, Christ the Son of the living God, who is now seated right next to Him to mediate on our behalf. Just a side note, when you decide to get married to a Christian woman, that woman just happens to have a Father who requires you to love her just like Christ does His church. So if things are not too rosy at home, you may want to head to your prayer closet and find out why. 1 Peter 2:5-8 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. 6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Zion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. 7 Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, 8 And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. (KJV) The reason many are tripping and falling over this corner stone is because they keep misplacing it and falling for some cheap imitation. Again we see that by leaving Christ out we are leaving the corner stone of His church out also. Keep Christ as your head dearly loved, and know that all things will work for the good to those who love God and do those things that are well pleasing in His sight. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 16:25-26 Now to him that is of power to establish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, 26 But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith: (KJV)
We ended yesterday talking about a doctrine, the only doctrine that will get you home, that being the doctrine of Christ. Today we see Paul, a man God chose to pen most of the epistles making reference to his gospel, and once again we see it involves Christ, which tells us what source this man relied on for truth. This gospel should not be a mystery anymore, at least not within the Church. However, when listening to many today I hear so much emphasis put on the name of Jesus the outward man, and so little being put on the inward one. Could it be something or someone is hiding this truth? 2 Corinthians 4:3-4 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: 4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. (KJV) So what’s the big deal about the mystery of the gospel of Christ? Well it removes the blinders that are hiding the truth and keeping the light from shining in the heart. In other words, that is why we have so many blind leading the blind today and ditching the truth. Again, we see Paul making reference to the doctrine or gospel he knew came from above. 2 Corinthians 4:5-6 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. 6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (KJV) Have you ever watched a movie where they keep showing a person of interest, but you can’t see their face? Once the face is revealed towards the end of the movie, it explains the whole plot and shows who this person really is. Time to face facts Church, you need to know who Christ is personally and let Him reveal His gospel to you; so that like Paul, you can claim it for yourself. 2 Corinthians 3:14-16 But their minds were blinded: for until this day remains the same veil untaken away in the reading of the Old Testament; which veil is done away in Christ. 15 But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the veil is upon their heart. 16 Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the veil shall be taken away. (KJV) We are talking about a spiritual veil that keeps spiritual things hidden until it is taken away, which is only removed in Christ. So by leaving Christ out of the teaching, well we will remain blinded to the truth. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. 18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. (KJV) Are you tired of the same old routine where it seems like your life is stale and at a standstill? Why not come clean with our Lord and face the fact that without Him you can do nothing on your own, well at least nothing that would enhance your walk. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. II John 1:7-9 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 transgresses, and abides not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abides in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. (KJV)
When asked about this mystery one has to realize that we are talking about a spiritual mystery. As we see above if you desire to receive a full reward you need to preach a complete doctrine that includes Christ. In fact we see that by leaving Christ out of the equation, we are robbing ourselves and others of the only doctrine God gives credence to. By leaving the Son out, like many are doing today, you take God out also; and it doesn’t leave much does it? Matthew 11:25-27 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. 26 Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight. 27 All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knows the Son, but the Father; neither knows any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him. (KJV) By not knowing the mystery of Christ, you are not going to know who God is either. God reveals Himself to people He can trust with Spiritual things, which means you need to get yourself in line with Him and prove yourself trustworthy. Luke 16:10-12 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. 11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? 12 And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own? (KJV) Today we have many hirelings preaching a watered down perversion of the gospel based more on a love of money than a love for our Lord. These larger than life do gooders are more concerned with earthly treasures than the one our Lord desires to reveal to His people, which is robbery to say the least. II John 1:9-11 Whosoever transgresses, and abides not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abides 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 bids him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. (KJV) My prayer is that you learn to exercise your spiritual senses more than your carnal ones, and make your decisions based on what our Lord is revealing and not just settling for what many others claim is of God. Acts 4:10-12 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. 11 This is the stone which was set at naught of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. 12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (KJV) From what I am seeing, when leaving Christ out of the teaching we are taking a lot off the table. Could it be that is why the enemy is tagged as being a spirit of antichrist? God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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