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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. 2 Corinthians 3:14-16 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. (KJV)
Have you ever watched a show, a mystery where the main character is kept secret by not revealing their true identity until near the end of the program, then everything that was hidden all fits together and the mystery is solved? How about a work of art, a portrait of someone that was covered up until the unveiling, revealing the artist as well as who was portrayed in the painting. 2 Corinthians 3:14 [Which veil is done away in Christ.] It is only by acknowledging Christ that the darkness is removed, and the end and spiritual meaning of the law discerned. (from Adam Clarke Commentary) It takes a spiritual being to remove a spiritual veil, and that man is Christ, the one man that can give us an accurate portrayal of who God is and how we can worship Him in spirit and in truth. If any man has not the Spirit of Christ working in them, as well as a working knowledge of who He is, then the veil is still covering the heart and one is not able to see beyond their own carnal understanding. Thus why we see so many today still operating under the works of the old law and not understanding or discerning the spiritual meaning of it, and how it is done away in Christ. Christ is the end of the old law, having fulfilled all the law without sin and has come to introduce us to a new beginning in Him, a law of faith, a substance of things not seen by our fleshly sight but revealed to us through the Spirit. So today when we still see so many that are stuck on the works of the law, water baptisms, circumcisions or observing certain so called holy or holidays, we see the many that are blind to the truth and unable to truly access all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge which is only found in Christ. Romans 10:1-5 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. (2) For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. (3) For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. (4) For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. (5) For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them. (KJV) You are not going to find life in the old law because that is not the realm where our Lord operates. In fact the Bible is very clear to point out that the letter of the law and those that hold to it actually kill the meaning of God’s plan of salvation for His people; only those that operate in the realm of the Spirit will find life. Paul used Israel as an example for his time, but as one looks around today we have many that are still trying to establish their own righteousness according to their outward understanding because they have not submitted themselves to Christ and let Him lead and guide them in their search. So the ignorance we see today is a result of those that are still veiled, unable to see beyond the realm of the flesh, and not allowing the light of the glorious gospel of Christ to shine within. Where are you looking today for the one true answer that will bring peace to your life, is it still stuck in a carnal law that is dead, died, and should be buried, or is it in a risen Christ that is alive and well, seated at the right hand of the Father waiting for you to utilize all that God has for you? John 10:7-10 Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. (8) All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. (9) I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. (10) The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (KJV) Many people today see and speak of a man named Jesus and the wonderful works God did through Him. I have found that few have a working knowledge of Christ, the Son of the living God that was working within Him, the hidden man. The enemy has no problem with religion and those that claim to know Jesus and try to imitate him, but it is those that know Christ and the power in His name that have now become a target because they are able to access the kingdom of God through His door. A spiritual door requires a spiritual access code to gain entrance, and only the complete name of Jesus Christ will get you into the new realm and allow you to see the kingdom of God unveiled. Ever wonder why it is termed antichrist, why the devil fights so hard to steal, kill, and destroy the true meaning of the power in the name of Christ and what His name truly gives you access into? People can pray and teach all they want in the name of Jesus which tells me they are only half right and still veiled; but those that know the name of Christ are the ones that are complete in Him and able to see beyond the veil. Luke 8:16-17 No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light. (17) For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad. (KJV) Have you ever heard the advertisement for the motel chain that states that you are welcome and they will leave the light on? The light is on in heaven, and the true meaning of God’s word and plan of salvation is ready to be revealed to any and all that would enter in through His door so that they can see for themselves who they are in Christ. Everything that has been hid from mankind and kept secret because of sin is now readily accessible by the sacrifice of His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. It is a grand unveiling which not only unveils God’s true identity, but also shows you who you are in Christ and where you fit in concerning your place in the body of Christ. It is only a spiritual group of believers that will be able to understand a spiritual being and operate in accordance with His will and not by their own understanding. Romans 8:6-9 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. (7) 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) As we clearly see it is our carnal mind and its understanding that is veiled and unable to access a life of peace. It takes the Spirit of Christ and an understanding of Him to access the kingdom of God and see all that has been hid in that realm. Without this Spirit of Christ we are none of His, but are just wandering around aimlessly in life, like the term ‘the blind leading the blind’. We have the mind of Christ, an enlightening of who we are in Him and the ability to access the kingdom of God through His name so that we no longer have to be on the outside of His kingdom looking in, but rather able to clearly see all that is available to His people. 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) Williams New Testament translation 2Corinthians 3:17-18 17. Now the Lord means the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 18. And all of us, with faces uncovered, because we continue to reflect like mirrors the splendor of the Lord, are being transformed into likeness to Him, from one degree of splendor to another, since it comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. Are you able to access all that the Lord has for you this day through the only door that gives us access, Jesus Christ? The Bible is clear to point out that there is no other name under heaven that is able to give us this, but the name of Jesus Christ. It takes a spiritual being to reveal a spiritual God, and only His spiritual name will give you access into His spiritual realm. Do you know the name by heart or is it still a mystery to you, or should I say still covered up? God’s word clearly says that there is one mediator between Him and us, that being Christ Jesus; now if that was good enough for Him, would it not be for you as well? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 4:35-38 Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest. (36) And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together. (37) And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth. (38) I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours. (KJV)
We have all heard that whatever we sow is what we reap. The seed that is sown by the believer is the word of God. Knowing how and where to effectively sow this seed is what will produce a harvest. While many just go and scatter seed anywhere hoping it will grow, a farmer knows what field will produce the best crops and how to effectively sow the seed. Verse 37 is interesting in the fact that it refers to One sower. Knowing who the true sower is and how to allow Him to work through you is what will produce a spiritual harvest. While others may just scatter and shotgun seed all around, letting the Lord direct your steps is what will be the most productive. You wouldn’t plant corn in a desert or try and grow grass in a parking lot, the same holds true in the spiritual realm also. The Lord is sending His people into His spiritual field to reap a spiritual harvest. Will you join His ranks knowing that as many as are led by the Spirit, they are the Sons of God? John 6:27-29 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. (28) Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? (29) Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. (KJV) Jesus Christ paid the price and completed the work that brought God’s plan of reconciliation to all mankind. So in order to reap the benefits of this reward we enter into this labor of love, which is no longer based on our works, but His. There is only One sower who can effectively work through His people to sow a seed which is the word of God that will produce an eternal harvest. Will you let the Lord work through you and continue His work so that you can reap this reward? Isaiah 55:8-11 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. (9) For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. (10) For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: (11) So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. (KJV) So many ideas, so many different ways which man has invented to help God out in His process and tell Him how to deliver His word. God’s word is effective and it will accomplish what He pleases. Now the question is, will you allow it to be sent forth through you so that you can do what pleases Him as well? The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few because so many continue to sow according to their carnal understanding and reap a crop of thorns and thistles. Matthew 7:6 Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you. (KJV) You wouldn’t spend the time to cook a steak dinner for the family and then take it outside and feed the dog. We need to be more discreet to where and how we deliver the message of Christ. Many engage in silly childish arguments concerning the word of God with those that are scoffers, and in the end they are pushing them farther away rather than drawing them near. No one wins an argument; once you have engaged in it you have already lost because you lowered yourself to their earthly standards. 1 Corinthians 3:6-9 I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. (7) So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. (8) Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. (9) For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building. (KJV) As verse 7 makes reference to; the fact that the more we can stay out of the way and not try to interfere with our own thoughts and ideas of how to sow the word of God, the more effective we allow it to work through us. Increase means to make the plant grow; and though God speaks through His ministers to get the crop started, it is up to the individual to then seek the living waters if they wish to grow and mature. Husbandry refers to a farmer, as well as a cultivated field, which is ready to receive the seed and produce a spiritual crop. 1 Peter 1:23-25 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. (24) For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: (25) But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you. (KJV) An incorruptible seed is brought to life by the word of God and will only continue to grow and prosper by this Word of life. The things of man and all the glory of man quickly fades away and is forgotten, but only the word of God and His seed will produce a crop that will never end. Now the question is, will you endure to the end letting this seed within you be watered with living waters, or are you settling for watered down doctrine that drowns men in destruction with the cares of this life? Some claim seed faith is based on money, which is a perfect example of verse 24. There are those that base a harvest on large numbers and big buildings, when in fact the term ‘grows like weeds’ is more fitting to those that judge by quantity and not quality. Matthew 13:37-40 He answered and said unto them, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man; (38) The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one; (39) The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels. (40) As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world. (KJV) Jesus of Nazareth set a perfect of example of how to sow good seed; being led by the spirit of Christ within Him and speaking forth His word. There is an eternal harvest available to those that are willing to work in His field and allow Father to sow His seed through them also, so that they too can reap an eternal harvest. Sow what realm are you operating in today? If we sow to the flesh we will reap corruption, but if we sow to the Spirit, then of the Spirit we can expect to reap life everlasting. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Ever hear the one about giving God a certain amount of money, and receiving a hundred times more. Since when did God become some ATM machine, and since when does God owe us anything?
Romans 11:34-35 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? (KJV) The only reason we are able to love Him, is because He first loved us. God has done a complete job on our behalf, having supplied all our need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. So, is it so much that we are waiting for our hundredfold return, or should the question be, is God getting His hundredfold return from us? Luke 8:11-14 Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. (12) Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. (13) They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away. (14) And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. (KJV) When you see perfection, it refers to maturity, as well as hundred, or hundredfold. The reason many don’t bring forth fruit to perfection, is because they have allowed something or someone to enter in and choke the word, and they become unfruitful. Luke 8:8 And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. (KJV) For those that continue to hear the message, as well as being a doer of it, they will continue to bear the fruit of the Spirit to perfection, the way the Lord intended for us. Mark 4:23-25 If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. (24) And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given. (25) For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath. (KJV) We have been grafted into the tree of life to bear the fruit of the Spirit. If you have become disconnected from the tree, it is a result of your hearing, and what or who you are now taking counsel from. So again I ask, is it God that owes us a hundredfold, or is it us that need to be bringing forth fruit hundredfold? John 15:2-6 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. (3) Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. (4) 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. (KJV) There is a fruit inspector checking His crops to see who is bearing fruit. Are you bringing forth a ripe crop, or have you become rotten to the core? Someday you will have to stand before God and give an account of your walk, and how much of His word you have allowed to work in you so you can pass His inspection as well. Mark 10:28-30 Then Peter began to say unto him, Lo, we have left all, and have followed thee. (29) And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's, (30) But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life. (KJV) God has blessed us with all spiritual blessings, which many desire to partake of. But with the blessings comes the persecutions, and that is where so many draw the line and are not willing to endure anymore. In order to walk in the newness of His life we will need to let go of some of the old things, or people in our life that are hindering us from receiving the living waters to bring forth fruit a hundredfold. What are you willing to do to abide in His vine? Is there anything or anyone that needs to be cut off, that is choking the life out of you or holding you back from bearing fruit? Simply put, either the hindrance gets cut out or you get cut out. So, if you are withering and drying out, watch out that you don’t end up getting burned as well. In order to bear fruit hundredfold, you need to receive the hundredfold message from God, or you are in for a long dry spell. Luke 14:28-33 For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? (29) Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, (30) Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish. (31) Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand? (32) Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace. (33) So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple. (KJV) A tower was a place of defense or observation, erected on high places or in vineyards to guard against enemies. It was made "high" so as to enable one to see an enemy when he approached; and "strong" so that it could not be easily taken. Have you counted the cost for your own spiritual vineyard, are you in it for the long haul; will you endure to the end and bring forth a hundredfold crop? Many begin with good intentions, but fall away in time of trial. Are you willing to forsake anything or anyone as well, so you can be a follower of Christ? The choice is yours; time to count the cost and ask yourself this honest question, ‘is there really anything or anyone that I would allow to come between myself and God, and separate me from the love of Christ?’ Is it really worth dying for? Remember you can’t buy your way into the kingdom of God; so when you count the cost don’t measure it by dollars and nonsense as some refer to the hundredfold return; but rather realize that it will cost you your life if you want Father’s hundredfold reward, which will be unending to those that trust in Him. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Mark 4:14 The sower sows the word. (KJV)
Back in our Lord’s time sowing referred to something spiritual didn’t it? Given the fact that we serve a God who is a Spirit, and who can only be worshiped in the realm of spirit and truth, that is definitely something one should keep first and foremost in their walk. Mark 4:18-20 And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, (19) And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. (20) And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred. (KJV) Back in our Lord’s time hundredfold started out a whole lot different than what we hear about today. Our Lord’s version was dealing with spiritual things, while today many have claimed it deals with money. Interesting to note that those that preach that nonsense can easily be categorized within the confines of verse 19. Luke 8:10-12 And he said, unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand. (11) Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. (12) Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and takes away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. (KJV) Today many make the claim that you can sow a seed of money, and make out like a bandit so to speak. Well as you can see, there is a thief involved who just loves to hear this seed faith crap being preached instead of truth. 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) You know, back in the day it started out so simple as ‘one’; however, today we have many who have taken something spiritual and tried to equate it to their own carnal desires and greed. Any so called seed that doesn’t involve Christ and His kingdom will be considered robbery; and no thief will inherit the kingdom of God. Matthew 19:21-23 Jesus said unto him, if thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shall have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. (22) But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions. (23) Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, that a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. (KJV) You know, being rich isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be, is it? You don’t see our Lord promoting this seed faith nonsense do you? How come He didn’t tell the rich man to give all his stuff to Him and then he could receive a hundredfold return financially, like so many preach today? Well, our Lord was more concerned with this man’s spiritual outcome rather than His own financial one; which is why He is now seated at the right hand of God the Father. Dear brethren, seek to be rich in faith which has an eternal weight of glory to the praise of God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Mark 4:16-19 And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness; 17 And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution arises for the word's sake, immediately they are offended. 18 And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, 19 And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. (KJV)
We are skipping forward here as the Lord expounds the meaning of the parable of the sower. He spells out what happens when one doesn’t get rooted and grounded in truth, becoming easy prey for the enemy, many times without them even realizing that they are being deceived. 1 Timothy 6:5-8 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. 6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. (KJV) Have you learned to be content today, knowing who your source truly is? If not, then you will find yourself uprooted and the life being choked out of you. Many people wonder what they can do to move forward in their walk with the Lord, verse 6 shows us clearly how to take that step forward. 1 Timothy 6:9-12 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. (KJV) Drowning can take the life of a person, and as we see illustrated above many are entangled in sea weeds of this life, drowning spiritually. Many false prophets today are trying to mix the things of God with the riches of this life and it is nothing short of dead doctrine to say the least. Take note of the fact that these teachings are taking God’s people from a love for Him and diverting their attention back to the carnal realm. Something we should be fleeing from, not flocking to. 2 Peter 2:1-3 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privately shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. 2 And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. 3 And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingered not, and their damnation slumbered not. (KJV) Covetousness in the New Testament is considered idolatry. If you are not sure what happens to idolaters you only need to go back through your Bible and you will find out. If you are in an organization that focuses more on carnal riches than spiritual ones I would cut those roots off immediately. God truly does consider His people more than just some cheap merchandise of the enemy. John 2:14-16 And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting: 15 And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers' money, and overthrew the tables; 16 And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father's house a house of merchandise. (KJV) The Lord took up residence in you and you are now considered to be the temple of God. The first thing He does is drive out those things which are a hindrance, and replaces them with a new desire. Have you kept the enemy on the outside or is his influence creeping back in trying to set up shop all over again? Dearly loved, keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life. God bless and have a very prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Mark 4:5-7 And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth: 6 But when the sun was up, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away. 7 And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded no fruit. (KJV)
The warnings are so clear yet ignored by those that should know better. Instead of being an easy pushover for the enemy like you were before your conversion, you should be rooted and grounded enough to hold your ground, not giving place to the enemy. Matthew 15:12-14 Then came his disciples, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying? 13 But he answered and said, every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. 14 Let them alone: they are blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. (KJV) Today we are surrounded with a lot more Pharisees who are unable to see beyond the realm of the flesh. It’s because of their shallow teachings that many don’t last as far as the kingdom of God is concerned, despite the fact that they are regulars at man’s religious organizations. Don’t you desire more than the cookie cutter assembly line we see running around today, supposedly in the name of the Lord? Remember the Lord was very specific in the fact that only those that endure to the end will be saved. Colossians 1:21-23 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled 22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: 23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister; (KJV) Just because you made a commitment to the Lord and have been saved doesn’t mean that’s it; this is just the beginning. We still have our lower carnal natures to deal with, and we can be our own worst enemies when we lean back to our own understanding. Sometimes we spend too much time in our heads analyzing things instead of staying rooted and grounded in the heart. Colossians 2:6-8 As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk you in him: 7 Rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. 8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. (KJV) If the doctrine does not involve Christ then it is not going to go very deep. Beware that you don’t let any man spoil or uproot you; and yes that does include yourself when you are operating according to your outward sight and not the inward one. Psalms 1:1-4 Blessed is the man that walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful. 2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. 4 The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind drives away. (KJV) Get yourself near the river of life and get planted in the fertile soil and you will not be like the many that get blown away with man’s winds of doctrines. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Mark 4:5-7 And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth: 6 But when the sun was up, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away. 7 And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded no fruit. (KJV)
Carnal Christians are those that endure for a season but don’t last because of the motive of their heart. Many will jump on the blessing bandwagon and are all in concerning the good things of God, but when it comes time for persecution they call it quits. It’s like a lot of marriages today where they have a big extravagant wedding followed by an elaborate honeymoon, only to end up in divorce court, usually over something silly and petty. John 6:26-27 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 Labor not for the meat which perishes, but for that meat which endures unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. (KJV) I have seen this scenario played out many times with big time ministries on TV and people I have associated with. They use God for their own advantage, to bless their businesses and families, but when it comes time to die to self and to be willing to walk away from something that may not be beneficial to their spiritual welfare, they refuse. Mark 10:21-23 Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, one thing thou lacks: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shall have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me. 22 And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions. 23 And Jesus looked round about, and said unto his disciples, how hardly they that have riches shall enter into the kingdom of God! (KJV) What has manifested in these last days are many ear tickling organizations who are willing to cater to mans’ lower nature and not the new one the Lord died for. The Lord has called many into His kingdom, but few are chosen because they are not willing to take up their spiritual cross and die to the things that hinder their walk, no matter how it manifests or how close to home it hits. Many still think they are walking with God because there are many organizations that are willing to compromise and not speak truth. Luke 17:14-17 And when he saw them, he said unto them, go show yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. 15 And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, 16 And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. 17 And Jesus answering said, was there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? (KJV) This verse reminds me of the many fair weather Christians who come to God in a time of need, but then take a hike when all is well. If you desire to get rooted in the kingdom of God then will you have to be one of the few who continually comes back to the Lord seeking more. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Mark 4:3-4 Hearken; Behold, there went out a sower to sow: 4 And it came to pass, as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up. (KJV)
Ever watch the old western movies when the people would look up into the sky and see the buzzards circling? These birds saw someone dead or someone about to go down and would pounce on them. Well, the enemy has many birdbrain doctrines flying around that are falling on easy prey for those that don’t know how to pray effectively. Ephesians 2:1-2 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; 2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now works in the children of disobedience: (KJV) The enemy doesn’t just show up and tap people on the back and introduce himself. He comes as an imposter, bringing a doctrine that is just too good to be true. In many cases it is just that, because instead of denying our own desires, he brings about a doctrine that tries to cater to our lower fallen nature, yet one that is not justified by God. 2 Peter 3:15-17 And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; 16 As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction. 17 Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness. (KJV) That word wrest in verse 16 means to twist and pervert the scriptures. In simple terms, today it could be summed up in one word, denominations. Anything outside the realm of faith is sin; and like in baseball it will be considered out of play. Take note that the enemy preys on the unstable or unlearned people who, though they may have had a born again experience with God, let their guard down and get eaten alive with an inferior doctrine. 1 Peter 5:8-9 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 who resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. (KJV) A lion in the outward realm is being compared to a liar who goes about seeking someone to devour. A lion will not chase a healthy animal or one that will fight back, but will wait for the weak or injured ones and then pounce all over them. They will use their roar to cause misdirection getting them to run right into their trap. Many of mans’ doctrines are predicated on the same principles. Ezekiel 34:26-28 And I will make them and the places round about my hill a blessing; and I will cause the shower to come down in his season; there shall be showers of blessing. 27 And the tree of the field shall yield her fruit, and the earth shall yield her increase, and they shall be safe in their land, and shall know that I am the LORD, when I have broken the bands of their yoke, and delivered them out of the hand of those that served themselves of them. 28 And they shall no more be a prey to the heathen, neither shall the beast of the land devour them; but they shall dwell safely, and none shall make them afraid. (KJV) See what happens when you let the word of God, which is described as being living and powerful, take root in you. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Mark 4:1-3 And he began again to teach by the sea side: and there was gathered unto him a great multitude, so that he entered into a ship, and sat in the sea; and the whole multitude was by the sea on the land. 2 And he taught them many things by parables, and said unto them in his doctrine, 3 Hearken; Behold, there went out a sower to sow: (KJV)
Parables are like an analogy which compares something based on fact in this realm to what is taking place in the spiritual one. God is a Spirit so it is crucial to come to a spiritual understanding of His Word in order to walk in the Spirit, and worship Him the way He intended. Please don’t think worship involves standing in a building waving your hands to the ceiling in some emotional trance. True worship or reverence for God is the lifestyle you live outside the friendly confines of mans’ religious organizations. What you will find out when reading all of Mark 4 is that salvation has to become a lifestyle, and not some Sunday song and dance ritual. John 4:36-38 And he that reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit unto life eternal: that both he that sowed and he that reaps may rejoice together. 37 And herein is that saying true, One sowed, and another reaps. 38 I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labor: other men labored, and ye are entered into their labors. (KJV) The reality is that there is only one sower; do you know who He is? Despite many who claim to be speaking on God’s behalf there is only one doctrine that the Lord gives credence to, and it’s sad to say in these last days few are allowing God to do the sowing. You will find throughout the Word that God’s kingdom is not divided, otherwise it would fall. One Lord, one faith is the only thing that He responds to, while anything else gets discarded. 1 Corinthians 3:3-5 For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? 4 For while one says, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollo’s; are ye not carnal? 5 Who then is Paul, and who is Apollo’s, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? (KJV) As we see illustrated above man is the one that brings in division, and it is not something God intended. When you are born again you are considered a minister of God even if don’t have a degree. 1 Corinthians 3:6-8 I have planted, Apollo’s watered; but God gave the increase. 7 So then neither is he that planted any thing, neither he that watered; but God that gives the increase. 8 Now he that planted and he that watered are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labor. (KJV) Did you notice the kind of people God speaks through? It is those that are humble enough to realize that they are nothing without Him. The ones who are willing to teach and preach the doctrine of Christ and are not concerned with pleasing people. These are the ones that are looking for a heavenly reward, treasuring the things of God more than what man has to offer. 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) The devil has many of his impersonators sowing tares amongst the wheat. A tare is a false version of the wheat which looks the same on the outside; however, when bitten into it has a bitter and intoxicating effect. It’s up to you to rightly divide the word of truth so that you know what is coming direct from God’s mouth. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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