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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. Hebrews 6:4-6 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, (5) And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, (6) If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. (KJV)
Do you remember how you were first saved, and entered into the realm of the Spirit? This new found life of love, joy, and peace; was it something you did that made it happen, or was it someone you believed in that made it happen? So if you entered this realm with this simple thinking, would not it be safe to say that in order to remain in this realm it would take a simple faith in Christ to keep you there? And yet with as simple as God made His plan of salvation why do so many fall away again, backslide as some say, and are putting the Lord’s plan of salvation for them to an open shame because they are no longer operating in His realm, but are trying to mix faith and the works of the law, which is like the term awfully good. The carnal mind is enmity with God and cannot be renewed into the things of God because it is foolishness to those that are in the flesh. Some people don’t like pointing the attention to our heavenly Father, but rather enjoy keeping the spotlight on themselves and their works, thinking God needs their help to accomplish His work. 1 Corinthians 2:14-16 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. (15) But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. (16) For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ. (KJV) When one is still trying to operate in the things of God according to their own thoughts and ways they will miss the mark and fall away. If one is not able to receive the things of God then obviously they are not going to do those things that are pleasing to Him, but rather they will continue in their quest to satisfy their own carnal desires. Again we see the word discerned; it’s this lack of discernment that causes many to fall back into the abyss of the flesh and its dead end desires. While many should be teaching and instructing others in the realm of the Spirit they have need that one teach them again the spiritual meaning of the word of God. And rather than operating with the mind and understanding of Christ, they are no longer able to function in His realm. Romans 10:1-5 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. (2) For I bear them record that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. (3) For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. (4) For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. (5) For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them. (KJV) Have you ever gone back and read what the Lord thinks of our own righteousness? How about the term self-righteous; which is not very flattering either? So why do so many miss the mark and enter this realm of mission impossible? Once again we see that their carnal thinking gets in the way and distorts the true meaning of God’s plan of salvation for mankind. Rather than submit themselves to right standing with God, which is only in Christ and that new creation being brought forth, many fall away again by trying to establish their own. As we see in verse 4 Christ is the end of the law, because He fulfilled it without sinning so that we wouldn’t have to be held in bondage to it any longer. But as one sees in the end of verse 4 it only works by a simple belief, nothing else. So in the end, those who try to establish a relationship with the Father by the law are those that choose to live or try to live in something that is dead and should be left for dead. Again Church, without faith it is impossible to please God; and once you have stepped out of the realm of faith, or try to add anything else besides faith, like works, you have now fallen under the title of a transgressor. Romans 6:3-6 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? (4) Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. (5) For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: (6) Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. (KJV) When you think of baptism, do you just think of the water ritual, or are you able to discern the true meaning of what our Lord was demonstrating, and the spiritual implications of it? Again, we see similar to circumcision that it is not the outward one that the Lord is looking to, but it is that new creature or creation within you that is important. When you are baptized into Christ you are immersed into His plan of salvation, a new way of life that the believer should be eating, drinking, and partaking of spiritually, not just some one and done ritual. You have now been baptized, and have entered a whole new realm of thinking as well as living, a realm of faith no longer based on your works. You have been planted like a seed into the fertile heavenly ground so that the living waters could bring life to the new creation within you, so that Christ could again be resurrected within you and do those things that are pleasing to God through you. You no longer have to be a servant of sin, falling away into sin, but rather a new creation in Christ. Is your old nature buried with Him and left for dead so that you can be a partaker of the new nature, or are you hanging around the graveyard and digging up the dirt? Remember our God is not a God of the dead, spiritually, but a God of the living. So where are you finding life today; is it in Christ, or are still trying to do it by the works of the law which are no longer alive and in play, but dead and nailed to the cross of Christ? Galatians 3:27-29 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. (28) There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. (29) And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. (KJV) Have you truly put on Christ, or are you just a put on? Those that have truly been baptized, immersed in His living waters, will be walking in a newness of life and not the oldness of the letter which kills and causes one to fall away. If you are truly Christ’s then it can only be by believing in His promise of salvation, and not of works. Ephesians 4:4-6 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; (5) One Lord, one faith, one baptism, (6) One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. (KJV) As we saw in Hebrews 6, that one of the things that was causing people to fall away, was their lack of discernment concerning the doctrine of baptisms. While many still hold to the outward ritual, which one do you believe our Lord is concerned with? Paul narrowed it down to one baptism, which can only be established by one faith and belief in our Lord Jesus Christ. Are you truly baptized into Christ and have put Him on which makes all things possible to them that believe, or are you still holding to the old laws and rituals that make it impossible to please Him? 1 Corinthians 12:13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. (KJV) I will let you decide and discern for yourself so that you no longer will have to fall away, but be able to stay seated in the heavenly places in Christ. God bless and hold fast. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Galatians 6:12-15 As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. (13) For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh. (14) But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. (15) For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. (KJV)
Whether the old law and its rituals manifest in the form of circumcision, water baptisms, or any other outward events, the only thing that matters to God is that new creation within the believer. If one goes back through the Bible, especially the book of Acts, you will see that most of the persecution came from those that claimed to be believers; the problem they had with Paul is that He was bringing forth a new doctrine apart from the works of the law. As we see in verse 14 the only thing Paul was holding to was the work the Lord did on our behalf, and anything else was dead and crucified unto him, as he considered himself to be crucified unto any worldly doctrine of man. It’s no longer about the outward man that is going to bring peace, but rather that new creation in Christ is what has brought forth the restoration and a confidence in His work, and not ours. Galatians 6:12-15 These men who are trying to force you to let yourselves be circumcised simply want to make a fine outward show, only to keep you from being persecuted for the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. (13) Indeed, the very men who let themselves be circumcised do not themselves observe the law. But they simply want you to let yourselves be circumcised, so that they can boast of you as members of their party. (14) But may it never be mine to boast of anything but the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me and I to the world! (15) For neither circumcision nor the lack of it has any value, but only a new creation. (Williams translation) Today we see the same thing going on as was in the early church; rather than hold to the simple truth that it is of faith and not of works, so many cave in to peer pressure, because rather than take a stand they fall away into a realm the Lord said was destroyed and done away. The devil and his workers would like nothing better than to see the simplicity of the gospel of Christ perverted and complicated with a bunch of man-made doctrines and rituals, rather than have the simple truth in Christ. Many today try to seal the deal with these outward rituals so that they too can boast that you are one of theirs because of something they accomplished, and not what the Lord accomplished on their behalf. So what is your priority this day; is it feeding and nurturing that new creation within you, or are you still trying to establish a spiritual relationship based on some outward show? 2 Corinthians 5:16-17 Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more. (17) Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. (KJV) This is what we have been talking about all week, even though we knew Christ according to the old law and its fleshly or carnal ways, we are no longer to observe Him that way. Once one becomes a new creation in Christ all those old things which He took out of our way and nailed to His cross is passed away; dead, died, and buried. Now our only concern should be for that new man within us and how to do those things that are pleasing to God despite what mankind may think or comprehend as being godly. We should be renewed in the spirit of our mind, having access to the mind of Christ, so that we can continue to walk in this newness of life and not the oldness of the letter of the law which is death. After all, when you stand before the judgment seat of Christ someday what is it that will truly give you access into His eternal realm; the works you thought would impress Him, or allowing Him to do a new work in and through you? Romans 3:20-22 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. (21) But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; (22) Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: (KJV) Here is your justification, a simple faith in what our Lord Jesus Christ did on our behalf, not by some works of the law that we think still needs to be accomplished on His behalf. Where is your faith truly rooted and grounded in people; in something you are going to do, or in a belief in what the Lord is doing in you? This is a faith that will keep you in good standing with our Lord so that you no longer will fall away back into the realm of the flesh, but learn more and more how to stay seated in the realm of the Spirit. Haven’t you heard enough testimonies of people that constantly backslide; people that truly had a zeal for God but obviously it wasn’t according to His knowledge? Many fall away and find that they are not being renewed because they are still under the works of the law where there is still a knowledge of sin, and not a confidence in the work the Lord is doing within them, they are still looking without for the answer. And while there are those that are promising them liberty, many are still the servants of corruption because of their lack of faith in Christ, and the only justification they will find in Him. Romans 3:23-28 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; (24) Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: (25) Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; (26) To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. (27) Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. (28) Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. (KJV) Justified freely by His grace, that is it; that simple folks, nothing else. We are saved by grace through faith and not of works, which truly eliminates any boasting on our part. You have been given a first class ticket to the heavenly realm so that you can escape the corruption of this world and walk in the newness of life that God intended for you. Now all that is left for you to do in order to board this flight is to pass through security, and provide the proper password and documents to get you home. Jesus Christ said that He was the only way home by the truth which will set you free and give you this new life in Him, above and beyond what you could have ever asked or thought about. All aboard? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Hebrews 6:1-3 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, (2) Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. (3) And this will we do, if God permit. (KJV)
The spirit is willing, it’s the flesh that is weak and still holds on to the weak and beggarly elements of this world that keep one in bondage, and not in the liberty God intended for us. It’s only the truth that sets us free; and this truth is only found in Christ, which gives us our permission slip to leave the basics and move on to perfection. Galatians 3:23-26 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. (KJV) Before we had access to the throne of God by faith we were kept locked in the realm of the old fallen nature, unable to access the new man in Christ. But now that we have access by faith into this new realm, why would someone want to go back to the old to try and establish this new relationship? Now that you are a child of God by faith, which is in Christ Jesus, you are now dismissed from the old law and its rituals, which could never make one mature in Christ but rather kept them in the first grade so to speak. Strong’s definition for schoolmaster: 3807 paidagogos (pahee-dag-o-gos'); from 3816 and a reduplicated form of 71; a boy-leader, i.e. a servant whose office it was to take the children to school; (by implication [figuratively] a tutor ["paedagogue"]): KJV-- instructor, schoolmaster. Galatians 3:23-26 But before this faith came, we were kept locked up under the law, in preparation for the faith which was to be unveiled. (24) So the law has been our attendant<n> to lead us to Christ, so that we might through faith obtain right standing with God. (25) But now that this faith has come, we are no longer in the charge of the attendant. (26) For all of you are sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. (Williams translation) When I first started school I needed someone to take me there and show me the basics. Once I became accustomed to these basics I was able to walk on my own. The old law served its purpose, and kept an order to things until the time of Christ, who set us free and allowed us to walk in the newness of the Spirit, and not by the old law. The Holy Spirit should be your new guide to show you the things of God and how to walk in them, no longer needing someone else to teach you. The more you rely on your spiritual senses the less likely you will be deceived by your physical ones. By the works of the law shall no flesh be justified because those that are in the flesh cannot please God. So who and what is instructing you today, what are you allowing to be your guide in everything you do? Is it according to the word of God, or is it more in line with the popular opinions of man? Hebrews 6:4-6 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, (5) And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, (6) If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. (KJV) You know what happens when you take a simple faith and try to combine it with the works of the law? These chapters above give a perfect example of how so many fall away again, even after having partaken of the heavenly gift of Christ. What many are basically telling God is that He didn’t do a good enough, as well as a complete work through His Son, but that there is still more left to be done by the works and rituals of the law. Once one has fallen away back into the realm of the flesh, which is not the one the Lord operates in, they will not be able to come to an understanding let alone a renewing of the mind of how the Lord operates and what He is asking of them. What the Lord Himself said was crucified and nailed with Him to His cross, is now pulled back into play by those that think they can establish a relationship with God based on works and not on faith. This is why it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, if they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; because what the Lord said was destroyed and buried, mankind is digging up again and trying to build a foundation on the works of the law, and they end up crucifying the doctrine of Christ and distorting the simple meaning of His plan of salvation. Are there dead things and rituals you are still hanging onto; that rather than having been left for dead you continue to keep alive? By the way those holding on to dead things will end up in the same condition. Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (KJV) Here we see the word impossible again; so anyone outside the realm of faith is going to find it impossible to not only please God, but also to try to establish any kind of close personal relationship with Him. What greater reward is there than to find the love, joy, peace, and a confidence, as well as boldness and assurance in the work that has been done on your behalf to provide this access, and how you can see more and more on a daily basis into the measure of faith that was dealt to you. It’s impossible by our own works to get out of the first grade or move onto perfection until we come to an understanding of what Jesus Christ has accomplished on our behalf, and the liberty we have in Him. Romans 8:3-8 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. (5) For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. (6) 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. (KJV) The carnal laws and rituals were until the time of reformation; which as we see in the above verses has already taken place. You are no longer under a schoolmaster or tutor, but are now walking by faith. It’s our carnal mind and the realm of the flesh that is not pleasing to God; and for those that continue to be stuck in that realm will find it impossible to do those things that are pleasing in His sight. Class is dismissed, and was when Christ fulfilled the old law so that we wouldn’t have to be stuck in bondage of it any longer. Now move forward, and go to the head of the class, and let the author and finisher of our faith be your guide. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Hebrews 6:1-3 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, (2) Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. (3) And this will we do, if God permit. (KJV)
As we discussed last week it was needed that one be taught again the first principles of the oracles of God. Now today we are talking about moving past the first grade and graduating to a deeper more mature knowledge of God. The reason one has to learn again the first principles is that they need to be reminded of the spiritual implications of the doctrine of Christ, and not to hold to the outward rituals any more. Simply put what you see here in the first two verses refer to things of the old law, rituals and such that no longer have any reason to be continued in, being the fact that Jesus Christ paid the price for our sin and completed the work that was needed to reconcile us to God. What we basically see in the first three verses is that in order to move forward, which we will do as God permits or gives liberty (which knowing the truth sets one free), one needs to leave the works of the law dead and buried. What Paul was seeing, and what many of those in the early Church were dealing with, was people who were still trying to keep the old law and the works of it in play; which when you try to combine the two doesn’t allow for the growth that is necessary. Galatians 2:16-18 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. (17) But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid. (18) For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. (KJV) Actually, in order to move forward one has to make it simpler; which comes down to faith in what Jesus Christ has accomplished on our behalf, and not what we think still needs to be accomplished on His. If I start rebuilding something that was destroyed for good reason, being the old law and its ordinances, I have now transgressed and gone backwards instead of forward. While many claim to have known the Lord for a long time, the reality is that many are still stuck in neutral or the first grade, because rather than realizing it is faith that is pleasing to God they still try to access Him and establish a relationship with Him based on their works and not on His completed one. Colossians 2:14-15 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) You know, the Lord took these ordinances and the handwriting of the old law out of the way for good reason, because it was working against us and not very edifying. Isn’t this life enough of a challenge trying to walk in the Spirit without adding a bunch of laws and rituals the Lord eliminated for our benefit? So rather than making things complicated Church, get rid of the excess baggage and keep it simple; a simple faith and belief in what the Lord is asking of you, and not what man keeps saying is important. The Lord spoke in parables and used analogies of things in this realm that had a spiritual meaning, so now it is time for you to discern what the meaning is spiritually and operate in that realm. Hebrews 9:7-10 But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people: (8) The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing: (9) Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience; (10) Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation. (KJV) You know folks, when I was in first grade I did things more because I was told what to do, not because I knew better. But as I grew and matured I was able to decide and discern for myself what was best for me, and what I was best suited for, although I didn’t always make the wisest choices. Carnal ordinances, certain foods and drinks, and washings which would definitely come under the term water baptism, were all imposed unto the people until the time of reformation which took place once the Lord paid the price for sin and released us from these old stale harsh rituals and doctrines. Once you have been released from this ball and chain, why would anyone desire to go back to it again, trying to build a foundation on something that was destroyed and nailed to a cross? Again, how much would you benefit from going back to the first grade and trying to learn from that literature? Now that the way into the holiest of holies has been made available for us by the blood of Christ and not the works of the law, why do so many hold more to the old rather than to the new? You have a clear path to the throne of God so that you can boldly go before Him and get the things you need which are spiritual on a daily basis; why would you make it more difficult and complicated than what the Lord made it? In fact the Lord laid down His life so that we could have a clear path; so by adding all this other stuff to His simple terms and conditions of salvation, are we not telling Him He didn’t do a complete work? Ephesians 2:13-18 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. (14) For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; (15) Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; (16) And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: (17) And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. (18) For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. (KJV) Right now you have an open door in Christ to walk out and graduate from the old, and move on to perfection (maturity). That partition that has kept us stagnant and stuck in the old has been knocked down, and now we are able to leave these first principles of how the Lord was introduced to the people by the law behind us, and now move on to a deeper understanding having our spiritual eyes enlightened by the truth which sets us free. A basic summation; we have been reconciled to God, and that peace you have experienced and should be continuing in, is a result of faith and not of works, so that none can boast. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Timothy 1:8-10 But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; (9) Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, (10) For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine; (KJV)
The laws of our land are put in place to protect us and keep an order to our society. For every transgression there are consequences, and God has ordained our military, police and other law enforcement bureaus to maintain this order for all of our benefit. I am grateful for the jobs they do, and would much rather see dangerous criminals locked up instead of roaming loose and preying on our society. That is why, as Christians, we are the ones that should be setting the example by our deeds and not just cheap lip service. So rather than run and hide when it comes time to pay our fair share concerning taxes to keep these services going, the people of God especially should be the ones leading by example. After all I don’t see many ministers today who are not shy about putting their hand out and literally demanding it from their flocks with their guilt trips and pity party sermons about how much more they could do if they had more money. We should be living by a higher standard which includes ‘putting your money where your mouth is’. Mark 12:13-17 And they send unto him certain of the Pharisees and of the Herodians, to catch him in his words. (14) And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not? (15) Shall we give, or shall we not give? But he, knowing their hypocrisy, said unto them, Why tempt ye me? bring me a penny, that I may see it. (16) And they brought it. And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription? And they said unto him, Caesar's. (17) And Jesus answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. And they marvelled at him. (KJV) Back in the Lord’s brief period of time on this planet He also was approached by those that claimed they were believers who were looking for loopholes too. Being the fact that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever, would not the answer He gave to those back then still hold true today? The Lord was quite specific with His answer and didn’t stutter. So I ask ‘which part of paying taxes is being misunderstood by the so called believers today’? Having watched a documentary about a big corporation that goes into communities seeking to set up their franchise stores there, the first thing they do is hit the local governments up for tax breaks. These are multi-billion dollar organizations that rather than do their part and be an example to the community, they do whatever they can to milk it dry. Sounds like the same mindset that has crept into the so called churches of today; they look for loopholes in the system which the Lord pointed out in verse 15 above is hypocritical. Maybe what has happened is rather than follow the example of our Lord, they have gone out of His will; and rather than feed the flock of God with the truth they end up fleecing it with their hypocritical messages that end up making merchandise out of the flock rather than Christ like people. Personally, I don’t like paying taxes (although I do) especially when I see some of the waste and mismanagement that goes on with it. Although many people complain about our country and direction it is going it is the place the Lord has me at for this time; and quite frankly when I watch the news I see there are a lot worse places to be. Our system is not perfect and never will be because of the effect sin has on this fallen world. So until the Lord returns we all need to do what is required in His word and pay our fair share if we wish to keep the Lord as our source. Proverbs 11:1-4 A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight. (2) When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom. (3) The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them. (4) Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death. (KJV) If you worked all week and didn’t get what was agreed to, you would be all over the situation demanding a just balance. If your tax return came up short you would be after them to get it straight. So when did the people of God and those that claim to be followers of Christ become above the law with their tax loopholes and big corporation mentality? Christians are supposed to be the example; and if everyone followed the example of these so called ministries, then we would have no one paying their fair share for services rendered and we would have nothing but chaos and anarchy in this country. Since when did they become such cheapskates? Claiming they serve a God of abundance but act stupid when it comes time to distribute it; nonsense! Our military people should not have to come home to a more hostile environment than the one they just left; and rather than thanking them, many that claim to be of God, are actually just as guilty as many others for ignoring their needs. Acts 20:32-35 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. (33) I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel. (34) Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. (35) I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive. (KJV) This was Paul’s farewell address to the elders of Ephesus; letting them know the example he set and what it took to be blessed of God. As a Church and an example of the believers in Christ, is our mindset the same also, realizing it is more blessed to give than receive? If so, we need to lead by example. For all those that are truly serving our Lord in not only talk but walk, we will realize this and do what the word of God requires of us. 2 Corinthians 9:7-11 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. (8) And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (9) (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever. (10) Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) (11) Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God. (KJV) Although this is one of the most popular verses with many of the religious people of today who have their hand out to the congregation seeking their just do financial balance, God is also speaking to them about doing their just part and quit fussing and complaining about rendering to Caesar. Although it is important to support the fellowship God has put you in, and you are to be obedient to what the Lord is asking of you, make sure the next time you get hit up with money pitches and sermons that pertain to the importance of giving, that the people who are preaching it are doing what the word of God requires also; giving more than just cheap lip service. If they have sold out to tax loopholes and are not doing what the word of God requires of them, how many other areas have they compromised and sold out in? No man can serve two masters, you cannot serve God and mammon (money); that’s called double minded which is unstable and unable to receive anything or any support from the Lord. 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. Malachi 3:7-8 Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept them. Return unto me, and I will return unto you, saith the LORD of hosts. But ye said, wherein shall we return? (8) Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. (KJV)
Back in the day, neither they nor the Lord were concerned so much with dollar amounts, rather, how much of your time and talents were you giving the Lord? Today many make it seem so simple, just write some big name preacher a big check, and watch all your problems go away. Malachi 3:9-11 Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. (10) Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. (11) And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts. (KJV) The meat that our Lord would like to see His people partaking of today involves that of the Word, something that is life sustaining and will cause one to grow and mature in Christ. Most of what we are surrounded with today resembles more of a day care center, where a bunch of children congregate at. Matthew 23:16-19 Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor! (17) Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifies the gold? (18) And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever swears by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty. (19) Ye fools and blind: for which is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifies the gift? (KJV) You know, back then we can see how misguided the people were, putting so much of the emphasis on what the people were giving to their organizations. Just like with today, most of the attention is focused on what the people ante up financially rather than spiritually. If they were considered fools and blind back then, yeah you got the same blind fools leading the blind today also. Matthew 23:21-23 And whoso shall swear by the temple, swears by it, and by him that dwells therein. (22) And he that shall swear by heaven swears by the throne of God, and by him that sits thereon. (23) Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. (KJV) Today that seems to be the main focus of messages, giving and tithing; you know, the more you sow the more you reap? Yeah, you know who is doing the reaping part don’t you? The main focus should be on the weightier matters; you know, that spiritual stuff like judgment, mercy, faith, or hey how about the fruit of the Spirit, love, joy and peace to name a few others. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1Kings 15:9-12 And in the twentieth year of Jeroboam king of Israel reigned Asa over Judah. (10) And forty and one year’s reigned he in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Maachah, the daughter of Abishalom. (11) And Asa did that which was right in the eyes of the LORD, as did David his father. (12) And he took away the sodomites out of the land, and removed all the idols that his fathers had made. (KJV)
For those of you who are not aware of sodomites, they are the ones that would today be called the gay or lesbian movement. Well back in the day it was considered an abomination, and those that wanted to please our Lord dealt with it appropriately, kicking them to the curb. Today many embrace these so called alternative lifestyles and invite this doctrine into their congregations. They are literally loving them to death. Malachi 3:6-7 For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. (7) Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept them. Return unto me, and I will return unto you, saith the LORD of hosts. But ye said, wherein shall we return? (KJV) The issue we are surrounded with today is the same as back then; what our Lord said was truth doesn’t change, it’s forever settled. However, many today are changing with the times, which just happen to be the last times; and they are adopting things that God said were an abomination back into their congregations. Of course when many of these so called preachers decide to jump in bed with the government so to speak, claiming their 501-3C tax exemptions, it already shows me where they have sold out; and it is just a matter of time before their sermons will be censored as well. One of my pet peeves is when the Church decides to side step their obligations concerning paying taxes, and basically they are on their own, just like the children of Israel were for forty years. Leviticus 20:13 If a man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them. (KJV) One of the definitions for abomination is a disgusting thing; something that is definitely not embraced by our Lord. Hebrews 13:8-9 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever. (9) Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein. (KJV) You should be glad that our Lord doesn’t change; I mean, He is the same loving, kind, merciful, gracious as well as forgiving Lord that He always has been. However, when you try to incorporate something that is abominable into His kingdom, well it’s just not going to work people. After all, you wouldn’t let some nasty dirty pig run through your house would you? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Acts 8:18-20 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, (19) Saying, Give me also this power that on whomsoever I lay hands; he may receive the Holy Ghost. (20) But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. (KJV)
Back in the time of Peter and the disciples the men of God didn’t play favorites with people just because they had a lot of money, rather they rebuked them instead. Today we see many who claim just the opposite, making it appear that the more they give to God the more they get. James 2:1-5 My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. (2) For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; (3) And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: (4) Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts? (5) Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? (KJV) Again, back then we see that the people didn’t play favorites; rather they were looking more to the inward and not the outward. Today many have decided to give more perks and attention to those that give the most outwardly; however, they miss those that give the most from the heart, inwardly. Mark 12:41-44 And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were rich cast in much. (42) And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing. (43) And he called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury: (44) For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living. (KJV) You know, our Lord did happen to preach a message concerning giving back then; however, it is much different than the ones we hear about today isn’t it? How about this nonsense we see on the 700 Club (a religious organization) with their endless telethons; and how they focus on who gives the most rather than those that do it from the heart. Oh and by the way, which chapter and verse did our Lord teach us about doing telethons? 1 Timothy 6:9-11 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. (KJV) So today let’s concentrate more on what our Lord did and said as our examples, and flee from the wannabe’s and pretenders. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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