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Good morning. Today's video The Son - Part15 is on the topic of who the Son of God is; the Son is the mystery which has been revealed. Luke 10:21-22 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. 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. (KJV) Jesus said that “all things are delivered to me of my Father and that no man knows who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him”. Who is the Son that Jesus is referring too? All know Jesus the man. He has been written about for the past two thousand plus years. 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; who was crucified and is risen, and is seated at the right hand of God. But if you would allow the veil (the traditions and doctrines of man) to be removed from your heart by allowing the Holy Spirit to lead and guide you into all truth, the eyes of your understanding will be enlightened to see the Son of God, Christ, whom Jesus was referring too; which allowed him to lead a life without sin. It is Christ in you the hope of glory. This was the mystery hidden from the foundation of the world for had the princes of this world known that Jesus was the Christ, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 1 Corinthians 2:4-11 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 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. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. 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. (KJV) Now it is given unto you to know the mystery of the kingdom of God (Mark 4:11). And to those who ask it shall be given unto them; seek and you shall find it; knock and it shall be opened up unto you. You have a responsibility to seek out and to know who the Son of God is; with what measure you mete, the same will be measured unto you. What will you do? Will you lay down your life to come to know Christ, the Son of the living God? Let the eyes of your understanding be enlightened to see Christ, as Simeon and Anna did being led by the Spirit, who saw the Lord’s Christ, and not just Jesus (Luke 2:25-38); his life and calling after the flesh. We are to know no man after the flesh; and though we have known Christ after the flesh (Jesus of Nazareth), we are to know him no more in that manner, but by the revelation of Christ in our own life. Philippians 3:7-11 But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. (KJV) Will you take up your cross and follow after Christ; that you may know him and the power of his resurrection in your own life? The mystery which has been revealed to those who love God; to those who are the called according to His purpose. Will those include you? This mystery is revealed in you. God bless. John 14:15-20 If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you. (KJV) Colossians 1:26-27 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: 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: (KJV) 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 - Part14 is on the topic of who the Son of God is; the body is of Christ. Ephesians 4:1-7 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. (KJV) Galatians 3:16 Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ. (KJV) There is one body, one Spirit, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of all; and we have been born again of His incorruptible seed, which is Christ. John 12:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. (KJV) Think of yourself as the corn of wheat, you were born into this corruptible world, and have grown in the ground of life on earth, the cares of this life and the deceitfulness of riches entered in and the seed of life within you abided alone; hidden behind the veil of the heart which was serving the corruptible seed of Satan. But when you choose to die to this world, something miraculous happened; the seed of life, which is Christ, began to grow within you. You were born again, of the Spirit of God, and the seed of life no longer abides alone, but has the God of all creation, the husbandman, the tiller of the heart to nourish His seed in the good ground (the mind of Christ) so that it may bring forth much fruit; that being the fruit of the Spirit. Galatians 5:22-24 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. (KJV) The more we die to self, crucifying the flesh with the affections and lusts, the more we will bring forth fruit unto perfection. If we sow to the flesh of the flesh shall we reap corruption; if we sow to the Spirit of the Spirit shall we reap everlasting life. Many of this life are abiding alone, without hope, the seed of life hidden; the eyes of their understanding of it blinded by the god of this world. We were once in this state of life, but now having been born again in the Spirit of the incorruptible seed of God, which is Christ, the eyes of our understanding have been enlightened so… Ephesians 1:18-23 that ye 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 to us-ward 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, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all. (KJV) No longer born of the corruptible seed, but of the incorruptible seed which is Christ, the pure word of God. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God has before ordained that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:11-13 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. (KJV) Watch and pray always dear brethren in Christ, that the ground (mind) of your heart remains nourished up in the Word of God, the living waters that bring forth fruit, some thirty (good), and some sixty (acceptable), and some hundredfold (perfect) in all goodness, and righteousness, and truth which is the will of God. 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. This week's video Love Comes Softly, is on the topic of the love of God and its sweet embrace. You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry. Have a blessed and prosperous week in Christ Jesus our Lord. Ephesians 5:25-26 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; (26) That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, (KJV)
Picture this if you would, there is a knock on the door, dad gets up from his chair and answers to a young boy nervously standing there asking if the daughter is ready to go out on a first date. Dad himself is a bit nervous, checking the young boy out to see if he is right for his daughter, which in reality no one is, but giving him the once over to make sure this is someone who can be trusted with his precious offspring. Point is guys, remember that woman you went courting after years ago; you know that woman you just couldn’t live without? So how are things going these days, is there still a love for that woman; you know like how Christ loves His church and puts the need of the Church first and foremost, or has that love waned a bit, like a candle flickering in the wind? Oh by the way, that woman you dated and then decided to marry, that Christian lady is someone’s daughter also, someone who is always checking you out to see if that godly woman is being treated the way her Father in heaven expects her to be treated. So again gentlemen, how is that marriage and home life going these days; is there still a love for that woman like you pledged to her and her Father in the beginning, or has it been put on the back burner for something else? Hey guys, aren’t you glad God isn’t as fickle as you are, you know the fact that His love for you doesn’t change just because you have aged and maybe added a few pounds to the temple? Isn’t it comforting to know that His love for us won’t change or be altered by other younger, and what may appear more seemingly, attractive people according to the outward appearance? 1 Timothy 3:1-6 This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. (2) A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; (3) Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; (4) One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (5) (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) (6) Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. (KJV) So you want to be a bishop, an overseer of the flock as well as an example of the believers, not only in word but in deed as well? That is a good thing, but how is that home life going for you these days, and is there anything that is being overlooked and taken for granted; you know like that wife you chose, and those children you chose to bring into this world? Unless you have your house in order, and loving your wife the way Christ loves His church you have no business being in that position. While you may have had a strong desire to serve the Lord in a larger capacity, that being a bishop, you need to keep in mind the commitments you have made already, like with that woman that has the same last name as you, before the Lord will put you in a position of authority in the Church. Are you willing to be a servant, not only for the Church but at home as well; you know like in the beginning when you did all you could to impress your wife and treat her with nothing less than the utmost respect and honor, especially the fact that she is a child of God and one of His precious daughters? All those promises you made to her in the beginning to win her over; are they still being carried out, or has she become the servant and you think you are the master? You know it may sound a bit petty or unimportant, but if you are not going to be faithful in the least, or what you may consider the least, though at one time it was huge, then you won’t be faithful in much else either. Simply put, if you are not following through on your marriage vows the way you promised our Lord and His daughter in the beginning of your marriage, what makes you think He is going to trust you to oversee and make vows to others when you have taken for granted your home life? John 15:11-13 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. (12) This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. (13) Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. (KJV) Do you really understand the love of God? You know putting others and their needs first and foremost even before your own? Jesus Christ died for us while we were yet sinners, outside and separated by sin, so how much more should we be dying to self for those of our own household? So if you are fickle, flighty, giving half hearted efforts at home and not building up your wife in the word of God, but rather criticizing and tearing down; or if you were to become a bishop in the Church, how long would it be before you lose interest and treat the congregation the same way? Do remember guys, you know when your precious little daughter came home from her first date and you quizzed her about her whereabouts and what took place? There is a God in Heaven that is quizzing you right back about the whereabouts of His daughter and what is taken place spiritually under your watch also. Aren’t you glad God isn’t as fickle as we are and that His love doesn’t change for us, but that He loves us unconditionally for who we are? With that in mind, can you honestly compare your love today for your wife on the same level as what Christ has for His church, or maybe there is room for improvement? Something to ponder before you decide it is time to move up in your walk; something our Lord definitely is watching before He would appoint you, or anyone else to the position of an elder, deacon, or bishop of His church. The bar has been raised gentlemen, raised up and in heavenly places; so for today can you honestly say that your love for your wife truly compares with the love Christ has for His church? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Colossians 2:11-15 In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: (12) 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; (14) Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; (15) And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. (KJV)
Williams New Testament translation for Colossians 2:11-15 11. And through your union with Him you once received, not a hand-performed circumcision but one performed by Christ, in stripping you of your lower nature, 12. for you were buried with Him in baptism and raised to life with Him through your faith in the power of God who raised Him from the dead. 13. Yes, although you were dead through your shortcomings and were physically uncircumcised, God made you live again through fellowship with Christ. He graciously forgave us all our shortcomings, 14. canceled the note that stood against us, with its requirements, and has put it out of our way by nailing it to the cross. 15. He thus stripped the principalities and dominions of power and made a public display of them, triumphing over them by the cross. Again as we notice in the above illustrations, that rituals of the old law were symbolic of what is taking place in the spiritual realm. As we ended yesterday’s study we concluded with the fact that circumcision means nothing to our Lord anymore because He is more concerned with the new man, a new creation in Christ that is forming within the believer. Baptism is illustrated again for us as one of spiritual in nature, a life changing event that should be taking place within the believer and not some outward show or ritual. Once one is able to die to self and their own desires of the flesh then the Spirit is able to take over so that your desires are more of those things which are above and not below, or below our Lord’s standards and intent for His people. The Lord removed the curse of the old law and nailed it to His cross symbolizing that the debt is paid and we are now free to walk in the liberty which is only found in Christ. When we see people still holding to laws and rituals, we are seeing people that profess to know God but by dead works deny Him and the completed work He accomplished for us. Simply put, they are calling God a liar and claiming He didn’t do a complete work and that more was needed; not a good place to be in people. 1 Corinthians 1:14-18 I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; (15) Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name. (16) And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other. (17) For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. (18) For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. (KJV) I don’t know if there was a more die hard staunch believer, as well as indoctrinated in the old law, as a man named Paul, formerly known as Saul. As we see illustrated in the above verses, Paul himself came to the conclusion of what his calling truly was and how he himself was crossing over from the old into the new. Many people today enjoy hearing the word of God especially when it deals with blessings, but start teaching about dying to self, crucifying the flesh and its lusts, and that same many will head for the exits. Paul clearly states and points out that Christ did not send him to baptize, but rather teach the doctrine of Christ that deals with the new inward creation not the old fallen one. While many still consider the preaching and teaching of the cross and what it truly takes to be baptized into Christ foolishness, few realize that is where their salvation and power is. Take notice of verse 17 as well, because for those that still hold to these outward rituals and ignore the true spiritual meaning or implication of them, they are in essence leaning back to their own understanding and their teaching and preaching is of none effect. Hebrews 6:1-6 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. (4) For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, (5) And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, (6) If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. (KJV) Remember watching the movie ‘The Passion of the Christ’, and how painful it was to watch them nail our Lord to the cross? How one would watch this take place and think ‘how could they ever do that to our Lord’? Did you ever stop and think that is what is still taking place when people misinterpret the true spiritual meaning of the word of God, they are in essence crucifying the Lord and His doctrine again? One way or the other, you have a choice to either take up your own cross and follow our Lord, or drive another nail into our Lord and His people by teaching doctrine contrary to what our Lord intended. Remember when you sin and wound the conscience of the believers you are sinning personally against Christ, and crucifying Him all over again. As we see in the first few verses of Hebrews, that these basic principles and doctrines that were in place before are things we should be leaving behind, not still trying to implement. Once a believer gets a true taste of the truth and what these things symbolized it is time to move forward and walk in the Spirit, not trying to fulfill an old law that our Lord already did for us. Galatians 3:23-28 But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. (24) Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. (25) But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. (26) For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. (27) For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.(28) There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. (KJV) Schools out people, and has been for over two thousand years. God’s people have graduated and are now walking in a new realm, one of faith in what Christ Jesus has done on our behalf and wishes to continue in each and every believer. When you enter the realm of the Spirit and seek to be seated with Christ then you need to leave your old nature at the door and put on a new man in order to enter into this realm. While some people claim that a certain sect or group of people were responsible for the crucifixion of our Lord; the word clearly states that God knows no one after the flesh but after the Spirit. Bottom line, we are either for Him or against Him, and spiritually many are still crucifying and butchering the true spiritual meaning of the word of God by hanging onto dead rituals that were nailed to the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Are you crossing over into the realm of the Spirit, or are you still hanging onto dead things which only bring dead results? He that has ears to hear let them hear what the Spirit is truly speaking today. God’s best and continue to walk in the Spirit. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 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)
Thayer’s definition for ‘likeness’: 3667 homoioma- what has been made after the likeness of something a) a figure, a image, a likeness, a representation b) likeness that is, resemblance, such as amounts almost to equality or identity When we see the word ‘likeness’ we are now looking at something that is a representation, a resemblance, something that took place in the physical but now has spiritual meaning. Basically when looking at baptism and its true meaning we see it more as a continual process, not just some ritual where one gets dunked then goes merrily on their way. If you were to hold someone under water for an extended period of time it would eventually lead to death, drowning the physical which in turn would release the spirit from the body. In essence this is what Paul is making reference to, similar to the Old Testament sacrifices that were killed, which then released the spirit. When a believer immerses themselves in the living waters and remains in that realm the flesh, or as Paul described our old man, dies so that the Spirit can be released and take over. Another way the seed is planted, which our seed is Christ, is in the likeness of his death which was by crucifixion. In order for our Lord to resurrect and be seated at the right hand of the Father He had to go to the cross, which not only happened in the outward but also took place in the inward. In order for us to obtain our eternal inheritance we to have to die to self in the same fashion as our Lord did; however ours takes place in the spiritual realm. Luke 9:22-25 Saying, The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be slain, and be raised the third day. (23) And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. (24) For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it. (25) For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away? (KJV) As our Lord was preparing to fulfill His calling and pay the price for mankind, he was also describing the same baptism Paul was describing in Romans 6, how each and every believer in Christ would have to take up their own cross on a daily basis in order to inherit their reward. As painful and excruciating as it was to drive nails into the body, it also subdued the body and kept it in subjection. Things in your life that you thought were gain, which were worldly, are now nailed to a spiritual cross and brought into subjection to the Spirit so that you won’t be lost, or cast away from your inheritance. Now the question becomes ‘how many are willing to follow our Lord, even as far as the cross’? We hear so many speak of baptism, but so few speak of the true spiritual baptism that brings new life to the believer by leaving their old life buried. Just as similar as it was in the time of our Lord, when it comes time to die many run for cover and scramble, even denying the Lord by rejecting the truth of what He is asking of His people; to take up their own cross. Every believer in Christ comes to their own crossroad, a time when the Lord says we need to nail down an area of the flesh that is hindering our walk so that the Spirit can take over. Sad to say this is where many draw the line and look for another way out, which the enemy is glad to show them an alternate route which ends up to be a dead end. When you are facing your own trial like our Lord did in the garden of Gethsemane, in the end will you let the Lord’s will be done, or will you walk away? Philippians 3:17-19 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. (18) (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: (19) Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.) (KJV) The cross of Christ is spiritual in nature, a doctrine that speaks of crucifying the flesh and its desires rather than pampering it and justifying the lower fallen nature. As I look around today and listen to man’s doctrines, they mostly speak of the world and seek their gain in this realm rather than looking deeper into the spiritual realm to seek and please our Heavenly Father. The phrase “if it feels good do it” no longer works for those in Christ, but rather they have come to the knowledge that the flesh and Spirit are contrary one to the other. A house divided will fall, so being the fact that you are the temple of the living God it would be in your best interest to keep your temple in subjection to the Spirit. John 6:24-27 When the people therefore saw that Jesus was not there, neither his disciples, they also took shipping, and came to Capernaum, seeking for Jesus. (25) And when they had found him on the other side of the sea, they said unto him, Rabbi, when camest thou hither? (26) Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. (27) Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. (KJV) What is your motive for serving the Lord, and why are you seeking Him? Is it truly to do His will, or are you looking to get a belly full? Like with many politicians today, many so called preachers promise liberty and a better life in the physical, however, they ignore the spiritual and the true meaning of the scriptures, and leave the people starving for lack of nourishment. As meat is a good source of protein for the physical body, spiritual meat is a definite requirement for the Spirit man if one is going to truly grow and mature in the Lord. Are you seeing the eternal meaning and intention of the scriptures and what they truly represent, or are you like so many carnal babies that think dunking people in water has any real substance? Remember, the things that are seen are temporal, it’s the unseen spiritual which is eternal and will endure to the end, will you? 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. Romans 11:33-36 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! (34) For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor? (35) Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? (36) For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. (KJV)
Williams New Testament translation Romans 11:33-36 33. How fathomless the depths of God's resources, wisdom, and knowledge! How unsearchable His decisions, and how mysterious His methods! 34. For who has ever understood the thoughts of the Lord, or has ever been His adviser? 35. Or who has ever advanced God anything to have Him pay him back? 36. For from Him everything comes, through Him everything lives, and for Him everything exists. Glory to Him forever! Amen. Have you ever seen people that claim if someone gives to God or some of His so called preachers that God now owes them a hundredfold return? Hmmm, sounds deep don’t it, but not very deep in the true things of God, rather deep in something that requires hip boots to keep one unsoiled. Nobody has, ever will, and can truthfully claim they gave something first to God, and now God was indebted to them, because that would fall under the category of works and not grace which is what the true plan of salvation is based on. God is not limited by physical boundaries as man is, but rather has opened a treasure chest of wisdom and knowledge to any and all that would like to tap into it. While mankind has been the Lord’s personal advisor, or so they think, God is revealing Himself to those that are willing to worship Him in Spirit and according to His truth; those that know the only way to please God is by being willing and obedient to what He is asking and not what mankind keeps trying to dictate according to their own fallen nature and understanding. 1 Corinthians 2:6-7 Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: (7) But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: (KJV) Iron sharpens iron; so when you speak of the wisdom of God you are speaking something that is hidden to the carnal man but clearly understood by those that are perfect, mature in the realm of the spiritual. The things of God are foolish to those of the world, thus we are told not to cast our pearls before the swine because they will not receive it, rather they mock the worthy name by which we are called by. So rather than going out and about thinking you will be heard for your much speaking and witnessing, learn when and how to speak and share the word of God so that you don’t do more harm than good, because once the swine are done with the pearls they will then turn and tear you to pieces as well. Ever wonder why the Lord kept silent when brought before his accusers, because He understood the wisdom of God and didn’t give them any more ammunition for them to use against Him. Ephesians 3:16-19 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; (17) That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, (18) May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; (19) And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. (KJV) What do you think of when you think of someone strong, do you picture some muscle bound person, those that are depicted as invincible? The true strength of God comes from the Spirit; the inner man that is rooted and grounded in the love of God which is only found in Christ. This is a deep knowledge that goes way beyond that of the flesh or carnal realm, one that few truly tap into and remain grounded in. The love of God passes and is way beyond our knowledge, as high as the heavens are above the earth, so much higher is this wisdom we have access to. Your strength is developed by how much you know the love of Christ, because the more you know of Him the more you see the true riches of God which is in our inner man, the confidence, assurance and boldness that we are one of His. 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 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) There was a song in the seventies that went “how deep is your love”; a question every Christian needs to know for themselves; just how deep is their love and commitment with the Father. While many today talk about Jesus and portray him according to their carnal understanding, few know of Christ, the inner man that strengthened him and showed him how to operate in the wisdom and knowledge of God. If you wish to establish a deeper more personal relationship with the Father you too will need to come to a working knowledge of who Christ is, the inner man which takes you into the inner workings of God, the realm of the Spirit. Many talk of Jesus and base their belief according to the flesh, but those that wish to go deeper can only do so by a personal revelation of Christ, the only rock and foundation that the true Church is built on. It’s not the outward appearance that describes a person, but the hidden inward one is what determines who that person really is; so while many still see a man named Jesus after the flesh, it’s only those that know Christ that can truly define who He is and who they really are. So where are you looking for the answer to the mystery of the kingdom of God, is it in the outward or are you looking deeper within to find the true meaning? Colossians 1:25-29 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: (29) Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily. (KJV) When one thinks of riches, one thing that comes to mind is a mine, where they have to dig deep to get to them. The riches of God are hid in Christ and in order to access them it has to be done through Him. The things of God, His wisdom and knowledge are hid from mankind; it is a mystery to those on the outside, but perfectly clear and visible to those that operate inside or inwardly. The mystery of God is, Christ, the unseen inward man working mightily in those who trust that greater is He that is within me than anyone or anything in the world. Do you desire to be strong in the Lord and the power of His might? Do you wish to know God on a deeper more intimate level, growing stronger and becoming more rooted and grounded in His word? Then one need only look inwardly to find the answer which is hid in Christ but ready to be revealed to any and all that would call on the Father through His Son. The things of God, His wisdom, knowledge, mercy and love are so much deeper and higher than anything we could ever think or imagine, so start digging. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 5:23-25 That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. (24) Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. (25) Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. (KJV)
Father, Son, Son, Father, a package deal, we can’t have one without the other; they work in unison to bring us a plan of salvation, a deliverance from the death sentence that was imposed on mankind because of sin. If one does not know the Son then they will not be able to access the Father; thus the Father will not be able to access us if we don’t come into agreement with His plan of salvation delivered through the Son, Jesus Christ our one mediator. Once a person is able to hear this message for themselves they are then passed from this death sentence and are now set free to a life of liberty in Christ; no longer a servant to sin and its consequences. The hour is now, for those that have been spiritually dead to be able to hear the voice of the Son so that this sentence of death can now be passed from them and erased, blotted out so they don’t have to be blotted out of our heavenly Father’s register, His book of life. Thayer’s definition for condemnation: 2920 krisis (kree'-sis); 1) a separating, a sundering, a separation; b) sentence of condemnation, damnatory judgment, condemnation and punishment Romans 8:1-4 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (2) For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. (3) For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: (4) That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (KJV) Where are you at right now in your walk? Do you know the Son so that you can access the Father and continue to be innocent, or are you still seeking to find freedom in the realm of the flesh, the area that is enmity with God and caused the separation in the first place? Did you know right now, that if you are in Christ there is no condemnation; but at this moment, today, you have passed through the gates of hell, the prison that kept us in bondage waiting for our death sentence to be carried out, having been declared innocent by the sacrifice of God’s only begotten Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. The law of sin and death is spiritual; and I was carnal sold to sin, stuck in a realm of misery and hopelessness. It took a new law, a law of faith in the work that Jesus Christ did on my behalf to set me free so that I no longer have to live in bondage to sin and death. If you notice verse 4, this is an ongoing process, one that began in the Spirit and needs to end that way in order for one to gain their permanent inheritance into the kingdom of God. 1 John 3:18-24 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. (19) And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. (20) For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. (21) Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. (22) And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. (23) 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. (24) And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us. (KJV) In the Old Testament they had the ten commandments as well as the old law, which if one goes back to the Old Testament they will see how complicated it was. The Lord has given us a new commandment, a simple one to keep us free from sin and no longer be under a death sentence. Sometimes we do stray, and if our heart condemns, which in this case is referring to convict, then one needs to heed to the voice of God so that they can restore the confidence back toward God. God will prick the heart and let us know when we have gotten off His path and are trying to establish our own righteousness, which in His sight is referred to as filthy rags. Once this confidence is restored again we are able to do those things that are pleasing in His sight, and not have to be concerned with how mankind sees or perceives us. The simple commandment is to believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ so that the love of God can continue to be shed abroad in our heart, and that we can know and not just guess or hope that He is still abiding in us. So how are you accessing the Father today? Are you going to Him through His Son Jesus Christ, the one mediator between God and us, or are you trying to climb up some other way which is the way the devil would like you to go, back to his realm? The Bible says that if you try to access the Father any other way but through the Son, then you are like a thief and a robber, robbing God the opportunity to work in your life and present His plan of salvation to you to set you free from condemnation and guilt. Once you have been delivered and set free from your sentence of death don’t think for a moment that the enemy is not out to have you retried and convicted of sin again. So it is of utmost importance that one continues in the faith grounded and settled, and in no way giving place to the enemy. John 3:17-19 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. (19) And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. (KJV) God didn’t send His Son to scare you into the kingdom with messages of hell and death, but rather a message of love. It is your choice to believe in the message He is delivering and continues to deliver through His Son, and to believe in His name. God sent His Son Jesus Christ, a name which is above every name, the only name given under heaven whereby we can be saved and enabled to continue in His plan of salvation enduring to the end. With all that is in the name of Jesus Christ, are you using the full name, or are you leaving it out of your prayers? Some people think it is all in the name of Jesus and leave out Christ. Ever wonder why it is called the spirit of antichrist, the spirit that now works in the sons of disobedience? If you wish to establish a personal relationship with the Father, then it can only be through the Son where there is no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus our Lord. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Proverbs 8:17-21 I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me. (18) Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness. (19) My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver. (20) I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment: (21) That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures. (KJV)
What is the driving force in your life today, right now? Is it the things of God and His realm, or do the things of this life still have more pull and favor in your walk and your decisions? Although we are surrounded with the influences of a fallen world and so many cheap imitations of what will bring peace and contentment to one’s life, the true riches and honor are only found with God, the things of the Spiritual realm. Those that seek Him early, like the first thing in the day, will find the peace and confidence to take on the day victoriously no matter what the outward circumstances try to dictate. You will inherit a substance, a now faith confidence and assurance of things hoped for because you chose to follow and believe in the evidence of things not seen to the carnal man but readily revealed to those that are led of the Spirit. Where your treasure is will determine where your heart is. So are you seeking the durable riches of God’s wisdom and knowledge which are hid in Christ, or are you still under the assumption like so many others that the riches of this world will solve all your problems? Luke 4:1-2 And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, (2) Being forty days tempted of the devil. And in those days he did eat nothing: and when they were ended, he afterward hungered. (KJV) Have you seen those bumper stickers, T shirts, and other things that ask the question ‘what would Jesus Do’? Well the Bible gives us an accurate account of what He did; simply put, this man Jesus of Nazareth lived a life without sin, being obedient to His heavenly Father because He chose to be led by the Spirit of Christ within Him. So if people want to know ‘what would Jesus do’ all they have to do is open their Bibles and find out what He did. Now the question is, what are you going to do, and what is the driving force in your walk? We read in the Bible how Jesus would rise early in the day and spend time alone in prayer. The account in Luke shows what He did before beginning His public ministry, and the forty days preparing for it. How do you prepare for a day, do you spend enough time being still so that you can know God and what He is asking of you today? Don’t be so discouraged just because the tempter comes your way and tries to detour you back to the path of the flesh, because this is a true sign that you are on the right path and you are in good company. So many times we think just because there is opposition we have done something wrong; looking at the above illustration in Luke that is a lie and just what the enemy would like you to believe. So hold fast to your profession of faith today without wavering for God is faithful, and has promised that He would never leave us nor forsake us. Romans 8:14-18 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. (15) For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. (16) The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: (17) And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. (18) For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. (KJV) Thayer’s definition for led 71 ago- 1) to lead, to take with one a) to lead by laying hold of, and this way to bring to the point of destination: of an animal b) to lead by accompanying to (into) a place c) to lead with oneself, to attach to oneself as an attendant d) to conduct, to bring 2) to lead, a) to lead, to guide, to direct b) to lead through, to conduct (to something) c) to move, to impel: used of forces and influences on the mind We read about the Lord and His preparation for the ministry God was asking Him to fulfill, and we also know the end result of it, that it was not well received by mankind, especially the religious crowd that claimed to be God’s followers. Today it hasn’t changed, in fact the Bible says perilous times await us because mankind’s fallen nature has manifested to the point where people are more in love with themselves and their own works than with the work of God that He accomplished on our behalf. So the more you are led of the Spirit the more you will be paddling up stream against the current, and that being the new wave doctrines of man that appeal to the flesh and not to the Spirit. But keep in mind that these light afflictions are what will seem like a moment compared to our eternal reward that awaits us. So don’t be discouraged or think that you did something wrong, that you brought this on yourself, but rather rejoice in the Lord and in the power of His might. 1 Peter 4:11-14 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. (12) Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: (13) But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. (14) If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. (KJV) When you speak the things of God you don’t have to try to impress anyone with some deep knowledge of the word of God or how the end times will play out, but rather speak from the heart in love the things that will edify and build up the body of Christ. And don’t think it so strange if the devil launches a fiery dart your way, but rather rejoice because you are in good company. The more you come to an understanding of the mystery of the gospel through the name of Christ the more reproach and evil will be spoken against you. But just like a soldier, the closer you get to the front line of battle, and the higher in rank you are, the more of a target you become to the enemy. So keep in mind that we all are still partakers of the spiritual blessings which are in Christ; but with this also comes the opposition to those that allow themselves to be led of the Spirit and are no longer in bondage to the desires of the flesh. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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