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1 Corinthians 15:46-50 Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. (47) The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. (48) As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. (49) And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. (50) Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. (KJV)
Someday you will stand before God seeking to enter His eternal kingdom to receive your reward of inheritance. As we see noted in the above verses it will take more than good looks, an abundance of money or a familiar family name here on earth to gain access into this realm. You will need to bring more to the table than your good works or what you thought were good; rather it will take a working knowledge of the Son of God not only to access His realm now but to gain an eternal access. Knowing, not just guessing is vital in order to receive your inheritance. After all God didn’t send a Son our way to do a half hearted work on our behalf, but one that completed the task and provided our way of escape. It will take more than just a so called church membership or a bunch of religious rituals in order for you to obtain your inheritance as well. Acts 10:36-38 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) (37) That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; (38) How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. (KJV) If you notice at the end of verse 38 it says God was with this man Jesus of Nazareth, as He is with any and all that are anointed with this same Spirit that He was. It doesn’t say that Jesus himself was God anymore than you would claim to be God, but rather He allowed the Spirit of Christ to lead and guide Him on the only path that led to eternal life. The Bible is quite clear to point out that if any man has not the Spirit of Christ, then they are none of God’s people; rather they are those that chose to follow the way of the flesh on a path of destruction. In order for you to gain access into the kingdom of God today, right now, you need to have this same anointing working in and through you in order to do those things that are pleasing to God and bring forth fruit to perfection. Again simply put, you have to bring more to the table of God than just good intentions or what you think are good works, but rather a willingness and obedience to the Spirit of truth. It is vital that your focus and attention, your priority, is more directed to the spiritual realm so that you will be less concerned with the things of this fallen one. John 14:23-27 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. (24) He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me. (25) These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. (26) But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. (27) Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. (KJV) If you notice in verse 23 you see how the Father and Son work in unison to make their abode or home within the believer. You don’t see Jesus claiming to be God, but rather as is with us He allowed this Comforter, the Holy Spirit, to teach Him the things of God and not to rely on flesh and blood thinking. Also by the way, take note that this same Spirit will bring all things to our remembrance because it will come from the heart and not the head which is what many of man’s Bible memorization programs are based on. While the world and worldly people base their peace on the outward appearance of things, the peace of God, which surpasses way beyond our own understanding, will continue despite what the outward dictates. God is a Spirit, so if you wish to relate to Him and understand the workings of Him, then it will take more than a carnal understanding to know Him and the leading of His Spirit within you. The more you get to know Him the more you will realize just how much greater He that is within you is than anyone that is in the flesh and blood realm. John 20:27-31 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. (28) And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. (29) Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed. (30) And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: (31) But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name. (KJV) This man Thomas couldn’t quite comprehend the things of our Lord because he held to his own understanding rather than the truth. How strong are you today, and are you holding fast to the things of God which are not seen by man but readily revealed to His anointed? What’s in a name, well according to the Author, everything as we see in verse 31, that the purpose of this book having been written is to reveal the only name that we will find life in, that being Jesus Christ. Do you know the name that gets you access into the kingdom of God so that you can see beyond the veil of the flesh and understand for yourself the truth that will set you free, or are you like Thomas reaching out to the carnal realm to satisfy your spiritual understanding? You truly wish to access His spiritual realm? Then you will need to know the Spiritual name which is above all names in order to gain entrance. Ephesians 6:10-13 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. (11) Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (12) For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (13) Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. (KJV) If you don’t stand now in the Lord and the power of His might you will fall for anything, and any cheap imitation of the enemy. The whole armor of God is Christ, the only name that will make you complete in Him and give you the power to withstand all the fiery darts of the wicked one. Your opponent is not flesh and blood as many think, but is spiritual in nature, a fallen nature that will take a Spiritual being within you in order to stand. While many put a physical face on the enemy and wrestle in the realm of flesh and blood, which by the way the enemy enjoys watching the show, few really know who they are in Christ and the victory we have through His name. 2 Corinthians 5:16-19 Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more. (17) Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. (18) And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; (19) To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. (KJV) Is your old man, that old nature passing away, or are you the one passing away in a dead world trying to serve a spiritual God with a carnal mind? Are all things new to you because you are accessing a new realm of the Spirit on a daily basis, allowing a new man within you to resurrect and have His way, or are you like Thomas poking around in the flesh and blood realm seeking an answer? Many people talk about a man named Jesus and preach in his name, while few understand the unseen man within, Christ the only hope of glory. If you wish to access God today then you will need to bring more to His table than a flesh and blood name in order to gain access and receive your inheritance. And the only name given under heaven which is complete and whole is Jesus Christ, the only name by which we can be saved. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 3:3-4 For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? (4) God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged. (KJV)
How about a new motto for all believers, I now let God be true and man the liar. What if everyone else tells you something contrary to sound doctrine, will you bend and give in to peer pressure or are you grounded enough to let the word of God rule in your walk? Maybe you think this is not possible, well remember a guy named Noah, he had a choice to listen and follow the rest of the world, or to let one be true in his life that being God and His word. Remember it’s by our words we will either be justified or condemned, so as long as your words and God’s word are one in the same then you will remain in good standing with our Father. What if some around you don’t believe, maybe even those that you have been close to in the past, will you let that influence you or will you continue in the faith grounded and settled and not moved away? Discernment, rightly dividing the word of truth knowing the difference between the pure word of God and its spiritual meaning and interpretation, and mankind’s take on things. The reason man changes the meaning and distorts the truth is so that they can justify their lower fallen nature, which may fool some, but will be openly exposed to those that have their spiritual senses exercised to discern between good and evil intentions of the heart. Luke 18:24-27 And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! (25) For it is easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. (26) And they that heard it said, Who then can be saved? (27) And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God. (KJV) Have you ever stopped to think about a couple of words used throughout the Bible, those being possible and impossible? What mankind calls possible God says is impossible, and what man says is impossible to God it is just another day at the office; in fact His word says that with Him all things are possible. Did you realize that once you were born again into the realm of the Spirit you now entered a realm with no boundaries or limitations, a realm where God is able to do above and beyond all that you could have ever asked or thought of? Oh but how often man comes along and tries to talk you out of that realm with words of doubt and fear because of their limited carnal thinking, trying to justify and make excuses for their fallen nature. While mankind judges according to the outward and many claim that by being rich they are blessed of God, the Lord had a different take on it when confronted with the rich man in the above verses. Back in those times, just as it is today, the rich are looked up to in this world and given special privileges, while in reality all our Lord is concerned with is the motive of our heart. While mankind has come up with thousands and thousands of denominations and interpretations for God’s plan of salvation, the word of God is quite clear to point out that there is only one Lord and one faith that will be accepted by our Father. Knowing the difference between what God says is possible, and what man says is a life and death matter. Because in the end only one interpretation will allow you access to your eternal inheritance, while anything else will be turned away at the door. Luke 18:28-30 Then Peter said, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee. (29) And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake, (30) Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting. (KJV) We see Peter being a bit concerned where he stands with the Lord, having just found out that being rich was not all it was cracked up to be, especially when so many of the greedy Scribes and Pharisees had been preaching it. Is there a doctrine, teaching, or ritual you are still holding to that is contrary to what you know is truth, even if it is something that is popular with the world? Is there something or someone you see in verse 29 that is holding you back in your walk, something that still has more of an influence on you than God does? I bring this up for the same reason the Lord did, because no man can serve two masters, or as the word of God points out, a house divided will fall. When the word of God refers to receiving more in this present time, are you looking to the outward and judging according to that realm, or are you thinking in line with what the Lord intends for His people, all the treasures of His wisdom and knowledge? You wonder why your walk with the Lord seems stale and at a standstill at times, or maybe right now? It may be time to do a personal inventory, to make sure that something you may still be holding onto that our Lord is saying is impossible for you to move forward with, is now something you may possibly need to let go of in order to receive a full reward from Him. But know this, the enemy is going to fight you to hang onto these dead things, trying to get you to focus on what you are missing out on, and not on the blessings God has in store for your obedience. Know this too, that the longer you hang onto something our Lord says is dead the more you become like the thing He is asking you to let go of, or forsake. Hebrews 11:6-7 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. (7) By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. (KJV) Mankind has developed so many religions and different ways which they think they can please God with; when in reality it simply comes down to faith, your ability to personally hear the message of God delivered by Christ, and let His spirit lead and guide you through this present evil world. We see a man named Noah and read the account of how he built this ark, but did you ever stop and think of the ridicule and persecution this man must have endured? Talk about letting God be true and man the liar, it was only Noah and his family, eight souls that made it through the flood because He chose faith. Doesn’t the word of God describe the end times and the coming of our Lord as being similar to the days of Noah; so if it was faith in what man said was impossible, would it not be possible to say that only faith today will provide the deliverance as well? Romans 9:31-33 But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness. (32) Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone; (33) As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. (KJV) Even God’s original chosen people continue this day to try to worship our Lord according to the works of the law and not by faith; which the Lord said without faith it would be impossible to please Him. As I look around today I still see many who hold to outward laws and rituals, some claiming that you have to show up to certain buildings on certain special days or you won’t be saved. Bottom line, unless you have a personal relationship with God through a working knowledge of His Son Jesus Christ you are none of His, but rather operating in a realm our Lord clearly says is impossible to please Him in. With God, all things are truly possible to them that believe, while anything else is telling God He is the liar and man is true, yikes. Matthew 12:30 He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad. (KJV) There is truly a difference between what man says is possible and what God has to say on the matter; now the question is, who will you hold to? If there is anything or anyone you are trying to hold onto that has more of an influence on you than God, then it will be impossible to serve Him. However if you are willing to sell out from the ways of the world and all its worldly people then you will find that all things are now possible for you, because you are willing to believe in someone greater in you than he that is within the world. Someday all mankind is going to find out that God is true, it was mankind and his fallen nature that chose to believe the lie, so why not let that be today? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 11:33-36 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! (34) For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor? (35) Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? (36) For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. (KJV)
Williams New Testament translation Romans 11:33-36 33. How fathomless the depths of God's resources, wisdom, and knowledge! How unsearchable His decisions, and how mysterious His methods! 34. For who has ever understood the thoughts of the Lord, or has ever been His adviser? 35. Or who has ever advanced God anything to have Him pay him back? 36. For from Him everything comes, through Him everything lives, and for Him everything exists. Glory to Him forever! Amen. Have you ever seen people that claim if someone gives to God or some of His so called preachers that God now owes them a hundredfold return? Hmmm, sounds deep don’t it, but not very deep in the true things of God, rather deep in something that requires hip boots to keep one unsoiled. Nobody has, ever will, and can truthfully claim they gave something first to God, and now God was indebted to them, because that would fall under the category of works and not grace which is what the true plan of salvation is based on. God is not limited by physical boundaries as man is, but rather has opened a treasure chest of wisdom and knowledge to any and all that would like to tap into it. While mankind has been the Lord’s personal advisor, or so they think, God is revealing Himself to those that are willing to worship Him in Spirit and according to His truth; those that know the only way to please God is by being willing and obedient to what He is asking and not what mankind keeps trying to dictate according to their own fallen nature and understanding. 1 Corinthians 2:6-7 Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: (7) But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: (KJV) Iron sharpens iron; so when you speak of the wisdom of God you are speaking something that is hidden to the carnal man but clearly understood by those that are perfect, mature in the realm of the spiritual. The things of God are foolish to those of the world, thus we are told not to cast our pearls before the swine because they will not receive it, rather they mock the worthy name by which we are called by. So rather than going out and about thinking you will be heard for your much speaking and witnessing, learn when and how to speak and share the word of God so that you don’t do more harm than good, because once the swine are done with the pearls they will then turn and tear you to pieces as well. Ever wonder why the Lord kept silent when brought before his accusers, because He understood the wisdom of God and didn’t give them any more ammunition for them to use against Him. Ephesians 3:16-19 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; (17) That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, (18) May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; (19) And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. (KJV) What do you think of when you think of someone strong, do you picture some muscle bound person, those that are depicted as invincible? The true strength of God comes from the Spirit; the inner man that is rooted and grounded in the love of God which is only found in Christ. This is a deep knowledge that goes way beyond that of the flesh or carnal realm, one that few truly tap into and remain grounded in. The love of God passes and is way beyond our knowledge, as high as the heavens are above the earth, so much higher is this wisdom we have access to. Your strength is developed by how much you know the love of Christ, because the more you know of Him the more you see the true riches of God which is in our inner man, the confidence, assurance and boldness that we are one of His. 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. (10) But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. (KJV) There was a song in the seventies that went “how deep is your love”; a question every Christian needs to know for themselves; just how deep is their love and commitment with the Father. While many today talk about Jesus and portray him according to their carnal understanding, few know of Christ, the inner man that strengthened him and showed him how to operate in the wisdom and knowledge of God. If you wish to establish a deeper more personal relationship with the Father you too will need to come to a working knowledge of who Christ is, the inner man which takes you into the inner workings of God, the realm of the Spirit. Many talk of Jesus and base their belief according to the flesh, but those that wish to go deeper can only do so by a personal revelation of Christ, the only rock and foundation that the true Church is built on. It’s not the outward appearance that describes a person, but the hidden inward one is what determines who that person really is; so while many still see a man named Jesus after the flesh, it’s only those that know Christ that can truly define who He is and who they really are. So where are you looking for the answer to the mystery of the kingdom of God, is it in the outward or are you looking deeper within to find the true meaning? Colossians 1:25-29 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; (26) Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: (27) To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: (28) Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: (29) Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily. (KJV) When one thinks of riches, one thing that comes to mind is a mine, where they have to dig deep to get to them. The riches of God are hid in Christ and in order to access them it has to be done through Him. The things of God, His wisdom and knowledge are hid from mankind; it is a mystery to those on the outside, but perfectly clear and visible to those that operate inside or inwardly. The mystery of God is, Christ, the unseen inward man working mightily in those who trust that greater is He that is within me than anyone or anything in the world. Do you desire to be strong in the Lord and the power of His might? Do you wish to know God on a deeper more intimate level, growing stronger and becoming more rooted and grounded in His word? Then one need only look inwardly to find the answer which is hid in Christ but ready to be revealed to any and all that would call on the Father through His Son. The things of God, His wisdom, knowledge, mercy and love are so much deeper and higher than anything we could ever think or imagine, so start digging. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (KJV)
Romans 6:23 [But the gift of God is eternal life] A man may MERIT hell, but he cannot MERIT heaven. The apostle does not say that the wages of righteousness is eternal life: no, but that this eternal life, even to the righteous, is to (grk 3588) charisma, the gracious gift of God. And even this gracious gift comes through Jesus Christ our Lord. He alone has procured it; and it is given to all those who find redemption in his blood. A sinner goes to hell because he deserves it; a righteous man goes to heaven because Christ has died for him, and communicated that grace by which his sin is pardoned and his soul was made holy. The word opsoonia (grk 3800), which we here render "wages", signified the daily pay of a Roman soldier. So, every sinner has a daily pay, and this pay is death; he has misery because he sins. Sin constitutes hell; the sinner has a hell in his own bosom; all is confusion and disorder where God does not reign: every indulgence of sinful passion increases the disorder, and consequently the misery of a sinner. If people were as much in earnest to get their souls saved as they are to prepare them for perdition, heaven would be highly populated, and devils would be their own companions. (from Adam Clarke Commentary) Salvation is a gift, it is not something one can earn, but rather something someone has already done on their behalf and given them access to. God’s plan of salvation comes to us through His Son Jesus Christ, that one mediator that was set up at the right hand of the Father to give us our daily instructions on how to walk in this plan. While many claim they are doing things for God, the reality is that only a few actually allow God to work in and through them to do those things that are pleasing in His sight. Philippians 2:12-15 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. (13) For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. (14) Do all things without murmurings and disputings: (15) That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; (KJV) Strong’s definition for ‘work out’: 2716 katergazomai (kat-er-gad'-zom-ahee); from 2596 and 2038; do work fully, i.e. accomplish; by implication, to finish, fashion: KJV-- cause, to (deed), perform, work (out). To work out your own salvation means that you come to a working knowledge of God’s plan of salvation for you personally; what He is asking of you as well as your place in the body of Christ. You realize it is God that has begun a good work in you and desires to continue this good work so that you can receive His reward of inheritance. What I have seen with many Christians over the years is that when they come to the Lord they think they have to discard their own personality and unique characteristics that God gave them to present His word to others. What I see is a lot of religious clones, robotic images of what man wants them to be and not the unique individuals they are. So rather than let God work with them and refine these Godly characteristics, they become a cheap imitation of who they truly are in Christ; more like a cookie cutter assembly line product rather than the one our Creator had intended them to be. So don’t be taken in by a bunch of holier than thou goodie two shoes who think they are impressing God with their works rather than letting God work through them to deliver His message. We are the clay, God being the potter, so enter into His rest, cease from your own works, and let Him fashion and work with you the way He intended and not what others think. Philippians 2:16 Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain. (KJV) While we have so many different religions and doctrines of man that keep running in circles and in vain (which means empty or useless), don’t be like the many who still think they are earning their way to heaven based on their works. How would you like to run an endurance race and suffer all the heartache and pain that goes with it only to find out in the end you were disqualified for running the wrong course or trying to take a short cut? That is exactly what is happening to many that run in vain, who base their salvation on what others are doing and not on a personal relationship with God through His Son Jesus Christ. Salvation is a gift, a gift of God which was given to mankind for their benefit; now it is a matter of how many are willing to receive it and operate according to His plan for their life, or walk a dead end path of destruction based on their own desires and not His. 2 Corinthians 6:1-2 We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (2) (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) (KJV) This is a joint venture, a joint partnership with our Father, a gift given to us by the completed work of His Son Jesus Christ. Right now, today, are you hearing the message of God delivered by Christ so that you can walk the path of life He has established for you before the foundation of the world, or have you decided you know a better way? Basically that is what many are telling God, that they know better than Him how His plan works. Did you come to the Lord in the first place because you had your life so together and in control, or was it because you were in a tailspin, spiraling downward and ready to perish? If the latter of the two is the case, then at what point did you decide to take over the plan of salvation God intended for you and establish your own? This is exactly what happens when a gift based on grace is discarded and replace by one of works, dead vain works that promise so much and deliver nothing. Colossians 1:29 Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily. (KJV) Our work, our labor should be to cease from our own thoughts and ideas and let someone who is mighty, work mightily in us. God is a Spirit and He is seeking those that are willing to worship Him in Spirit and truth, those that trust more in the work He is doing within them and not the works they are trying to do without Him. Your strength, confidence, boldness, as well as assuredness comes from what you allow the Lord to work in and through you by keeping your body in subjection to His spirit and keeping your own thoughts and ideas buried, not what you think you are doing for Him. After all, Jesus Christ is a tough act to follow, so it’s not like you’re going to do anything that is going to impress God, being the fact that our Lord did everything needed to restore our fellowship. Obedience is truly better than sacrifice, because a perfect sacrifice has already been presented and accepted by our Father; now He is asking us to receive His plan of salvation being presented to us through His Son. Hebrews 13:20-21 Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, (21) Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. (KJV) Those that mature or are made perfect, are those that are willing to yield to the will of God so that they can be well pleasing in His sight despite anything or anyone that sees different. If salvation is a gift, then it is not something that can be earned, but rather appreciated for what has been given and what has been done on our behalf, not on what we think we need to be doing on God’s behalf. It’s an unmerited favor that is being delivered to us on a daily basis by our hearing the message of Christ and following through to the end with what He is asking so that we have not run nor labored in vain. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 11:11-14 These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep. (12) Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well. (13) Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. (14) Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead. (KJV)
God’s word was made flesh and dwelt among us in the form of Jesus Christ, who was sent from God to deliver mankind from a death sentence to one of eternal life. The things our Lord did and demonstrated are still available to His people today; those that God sends to speak words of life and wake people up from their spiritual stupors. When you see the phrase sleep it does refer to death also. Lazarus is someone we can identify with ourselves. And as we read yesterday, a man who was stuck in darkness, bound up in grave clothes whose life stunk, and was being resurrected from his sleep by the word of the Lord. We too were dead in sin and trespasses but are now made alive again so that we are able to walk in newness of life in the Spirit, no longer bound by the desires of the flesh. Ephesians 5:14-16 Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. (15) See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, (16) Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. (KJV) Many think and are taught that someday there will be a wonderful resurrection to a new eternal life with Christ, and for many of them they can hardly wait for that day to come. Those that have their spiritual senses exercised today know that now it is time to awaken from our spiritual stupor, arise from the dead and walk in the light of the glorious gospel of Christ and the path He chose for us before the foundation of the world. Thayer’s definition for awake: 1453 egeiro- to arouse, to cause to rise a) to arouse from sleep, to awake b) to arouse from the sleep of death, to recall the dead to life Romans 13:11-14 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. (12) The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. (13) Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. (14) But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. (KJV) Have you woken up from the dead; are you arising now and heeding the spiritual calling, or are you all caught up in the striving and cares of this life? Now it is high time; time for you to be seated in the heavenly places with Christ, and not stuck in this dead end realm of the flesh with its dead end results. Your salvation is near, the Lord Himself is standing at your door knocking on the heart to see if you will let Him in and give you new life. Like with the example of Lazarus, He is ready to roll away the old stony heart and set you free to the only liberty you will find, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. So are you heeding the call of our Lord; are you stepping out in faith into a new realm so that you can be partakers of the heavenly gift that God sent to us through His Son Jesus Christ? Now is the day of salvation, now it is much nearer than you thought; so will you get up from your spiritual hangover and answer the call, or will you sleep in and miss out on an eternal heavenly reward which is rightfully yours for the taking? Have you put on the whole armor of God which is Jesus Christ so that you will no longer be taken down by the fiery darts of the enemy and put back to sleep? Walk in the Spirit of Christ so that you no longer have to be in bondage to the lusts of the flesh, fulfilling its deadly desires which are contrary to our Lord’s desire for you. 1 Corinthians 15:31-34 I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. (32) If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die. (33) Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. (34) Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame. (KJV) Paul himself realized that in order to resurrect daily to this new life in Christ he would have to die on a daily basis. The outward or the old man continues to perish on a daily basis, because we are now walking by faith and relying more on our spiritual sight than the physical one. Our inward man should be renewed on a daily basis so that we stay awake and alert spiritually, and are not ambushed by the enemy. Are the eyes of your understanding enlightened to the things of the Spirit, or are they becoming heavy and you are drifting back to sleep again? Take heed to the warning in verse 33, because Paul did not say that evil communication might corrupt, but rather would corrupt good manners. These warnings are not put in the Bible just to fill in pages or finish a paragraph, but are there for the benefit of His people so they won’t be deceived back to sleep again, but rather stay awake and alert to the things of God. Some people are not aware of these things that many may consider little and trivial, but remember it only took a little leaven to leaven the whole lump, and for those that don’t operate in this knowledge, like Paul said, he speaks this to their shame. It’s one thing if the people of the world decide to ignore the word of the Lord and perish; it’s another to see God’s people perish because of their lack of knowledge in spiritual matters; which in the end is all that truly matters. 1 Corinthians 11:27-30 Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. (28) But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. (29) For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. (30) For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. (KJV) The Bible says that we all need to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling, coming to an understanding of God’s plan of salvation for ourselves so that we no longer have to guess, but know who we are in Christ, and find our place within the body. Many that have had a spiritual awakening at some time, end up falling back to sleep, this after becoming weak and sickly. It’s because of their lack of discernment and diligence, as well in making the Lord their priority that they ended up in this condition. The Bible warns us of the many false prophets that shall come preaching damnable heresies to the point of denying the Lord, and they bring upon themselves swift destruction. Not only will the false prophets suffer eternal consequences because what should have been the bread of life was actually polluted and full of deadly spiritual diseases which eat like a cancer, but those that follow them and lend their support to them will also suffer the same consequences as well. So wake up Church; you have a Bible and you have access to the throne of God so that you can sit together with Christ on a daily basis and hear His words firsthand; they are spirit and they are life to those that hear. Don’t fall asleep at the wheel again and end up in a ditch spinning your wheels, but stay alert and follow the only path that leads to eternal life, the same path our leader and forerunner Jesus Christ followed Himself. God bless and keep the faith. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 14:1-4 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy. (2) For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries. (3) But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. (4) He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church. (KJV)
Paul ended chapter 13 by talking about childish things, and then begins chapter 14 here teaching about love and how to operate in the love of God. Again verse 1 uses the term gifts, which is an added word not in the original text. Everything we have been talking about this week points back to the gift of Christ, and how we as believers can allow His Spirit to manifest through us for our profit. One of the childish things Paul saw happening in the Church was the speaking in tongues and the improper use of it. While many were just rattling off in tongues to the congregation, as I still see going on today, few knew the importance of prophesying; which simply means to speak under the inspiration of the Spirit. Basically what was being asked is, what is going to be the most edifying to the body, speaking words of life that will build up or speaking something that is not understood and of no avail. 1 Corinthians 14:5-6 I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying. (6) Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine? (KJV) It’s not that Paul was forbidding the manifestation of tongues in the Church, it was that he was trying to instruct them on how it was to be done decently and in order; something that would be from the motive of love to build up the Church and not to confuse it. So unless there is an understanding to what is being spoken then there should be nothing said. Romans 8:26-27 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. (27) And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. (KJV) The Spirit will pray through you with groanings or utterances, which without an understanding should not be uttered. Though these may be in the form of a tongue or an unknown language to the believer, it is the Spirit within you praying to the Father on behalf of all His people. So unless you’re sure what is being spoken, Paul is saying, it is best to keep it to yourself. Ephesians 6:18-20 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; (19) And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, (20) For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. (KJV) Again, Paul wasn’t forbidding the use of tongues, but rather was teaching them how to effectively operate with a new tongue which is a result of the new heart. Paul knew how to pray and communicate with God, as well as allowing God to communicate His message of salvation back through Him to reveal the mystery of the gospel. His desire was one of love, one to speak boldly, so that it would point the people to God and build them up, giving them an understanding into the mystery of Christ. 1 Corinthians 14:7-12 And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped? (8) For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? (9) So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air. (10) There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification. (11) Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me. (12) Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church. (KJV) Thayer’s definition for barbarian: 915 barbaros- 1) one whose speech is rude, rough and harsh 2) one who speaks a foreign or strange language which is not understood by another. Again, what is your motive when you come together? If you are trying to impress others then you will be like a barbarian to others, or like someone from a foreign country who is trying to communicate a message that is not discernable. Like verse 12 alludes to, desire Spiritual; something that will build up the Church and not self. 1 Corinthians 14:13-20 Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret. (14) For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful. (15) What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also. (16) Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest? (17) For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified. (18) I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all: (19) Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. (20) Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. (KJV) If you are unable to interpret a tongue, whether it is in the form of a doctrine or what someone considers knowledge or any other utterance, unless it is done with understanding then they should keep silent. In other words quit acting like a bunch of children with a new toy; if you don’t know how it works you will end up causing more harm than good. Like Paul said, he would rather speak five words that would build up and edify, than sounding off like some auctioneer that makes a lot of noise without any substance. Colossians 4:3-4 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: (4) That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. (KJV) The most important gift that we can covet and hold to is the gift of Christ, and all that we have access to through His name. For those that are going to mature in Christ and effectively allow the Spirit to manifest through them will be those who have learned how to speak and teach the mystery of Christ from the motive of love. Let’s put away childish things, and come to a loving and mature understanding of God and how He desires His people to operate and speak on His behalf. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (KJV)
God gave us the perfect gift in the form of His Son, Jesus Christ, so that we too could manifest God’s plan of salvation however or whatever way He sees fit. The question you have to answer for yourself is ‘will you find your place in the body of Christ and allow His spirit to work in you as well?’ 1 Corinthians 12:27-31 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. (28) And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. (29) Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? (30) Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? (31) But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way. (KJV) God has set and would like to set you in the body where He knows you are best suited, and where you would be able to be the most effective. While many think that they know how to be the most effective, it’s only those that allow God to work through them in the place He would have them to be who will be the ones He will work through, and manifest His Spirit through. Are all of us qualified to be in the position of an apostle or a prophet, if not then leave it alone. Are you developed enough in the calling or qualification of healing, or speaking in tongues and interpreting them as well, if not then don’t pretend you are just because someone else is. Like verse 31 says, covet the best gifts or qualifications that you are best suited for; because if you haven’t been called to a certain position, or you are trying to operate in a place that God hasn’t called you to or you are not developed in, you will be ineffective. I have been a truck driver and a transit operator for most of my working days which is a talent God gave me and blessed me with. But I can assure you that if I needed medical attention or knew someone else that did, I would gladly point them or myself to someone that was qualified and had an understanding concerning healing. You know what they say about those that are their own doctor; they end up with fools for patients. Have you ever watched medical shows on TV when they do an operation? You see that it takes someone who is trained and knows what they are doing so that they can provide the remedy. Just because you stayed at a Holiday Inn doesn’t make you qualified; the same holds true in the Spiritual realm. God does not want a novice any more than you would want a novice physician doing life and death surgery on you. 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. (2) And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. (3) And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. (KJV) Paul ended chapter 12 saying that he would show us a more excellent way, and here it is, what it comes down to is the motive of the heart. You may have a tremendous zeal for God, but if it is not being done in love then it is all for naught and will profit nothing. Love is laying down your life for the brethren; finding your place in the body and allowing God to work through you no matter where He has set you in the body, or how He chooses to work through you. You may have learned to speak and pray in a tongue of man, or that of an angel, or a spiritual nature, but if it is not done in love it is of no avail. So again, what is the motive of your heart, and how are you responding to the calling of God and the gift He has given? Are you a gift that is allowing the life of God to flow through you, or have you become a stumbling block to others, causing more confusion than peace? 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, (5) Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; (6) Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; (7) Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. (KJV) The manifestation of the Spirit is given for us to profit in, and nothing will demonstrate that better than the motive of love. Everything we see here in the above verses totally contradicts what we have learned from the past, like the term looking out for number one. Number one is now the members of the one body in Christ, something we should be more concerned with than our own desires. The Bible says that we should do unto others as we would like done unto us, even though the second part of that verse doesn’t always turn out that way. Even though we don’t always receive from others what we put forth, it doesn’t mean we should lower our standards and stoop to a different level. 1 Corinthians 13:8-11 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. (9) For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. (10) But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. (11) When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. (KJV) God so loved the world that He gave us His only begotten Son so that we could partake of His divine nature and learn how to reciprocate His charity, which is another word for love, back to Him as well as other members of the body. Love never fails; it is a sure fire way to allow the Spirit, the gift of Christ, to manifest and work through us. While many have tried to impress others with much speaking and head knowledge, and while others thought that by speaking in tongues they would really be impressive, in the end it will all just vanish away and the only thing left that will make any difference is those that chose to walk in love. How have you answered the call of God? Are you doing it with the motive of love not only on His behalf but for the members of the body of Christ as well, or are you motivated by trying to impress others, which has just been described as being of no profit? 1 Corinthians 13:12-13 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. (13) And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity. (KJV) Someday we will be able to see the totality of God’s plan of salvation without having to deal with our carnal understanding. So for now we will have to settle for a glimpse into the heavenly realm, building a foundation one day at a time. The best way to clear this up for today is with an understanding and a motive of love, a perfect mature love that casts out all fear. How are you handling the gift God gave? Are you able to see for yourself where you fit in the body and is your desire to edify others, or are motives childish and self serving? It’s the best gift available to all mankind, the gift of God, which He would love for you to receive if you would love to have it. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 13:1-2 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. (2) And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. (KJV)
Ever pick up an instrument when you were younger, or watch a child handle a new instrument, say a guitar or a set of drums? They will strum the guitar or beat away at the drums, which eventually gets to the point of irritation to the listener. The same holds true in the Church as well. There are people who think speaking in tongues makes them more spiritual or something, which is what Paul dealt with and spoke of in the above verses. Now to listen to someone who is trained and practiced with an instrument it can produce a sound that is familiar and easy to listen to, while the flip side can be something loud and boisterous, something or someone that gets old fast, and not pleasant to be around. If our motives for the things that we do are anything other than a pure motive of love, then we too will be nothing more than an instrument that is making sounds but nothing worth listening to. Love means that we are more interested in the edifying of someone else rather than trying to draw attention to ourselves and make ourselves seem so spiritual because we can speak in an unknown tongue. 1 Corinthians 14:7-11 And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped? (8) For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? (9) So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air. (10) There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification. (11) Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me. (KJV) Again we see that when one goes to attend a fellowship of believers, whether it is a Bible study or a church service, you are going there to get built up and edified, not to put on a show. If you want to make a lot of noise and act like a child rather than go to the church service, you would be just as well served to hang out in the day care center with the other younger noise makers, who at least have an excuse. So before you get all caught up in the commotion of trying to prove yourself some spiritual giant, it would do you well to be quick to hear and slow to speak, something that bodes well with any of our daily encounters. 1 Corinthians 14:23-25 If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad? (24) But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all: (25) And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth. (KJV) I am kind of jumping around here with the scriptures, but we will get back to the point on this subject. I can tell you for myself and from what others have shared with me over the years concerning an organization they were checking out, nothing turned them off quicker, and quenched the Spirit faster, than having a bunch of childish people rattling off in tongues; because the people doing it were not using wisdom, but rather putting on an outward show. Thayer’s definition for mad: 3105 mainomai- to rave as a maniac, to be mad, to rave; used of one who so speaks that he seems not to be in his right mind Is this really the first and possibly last impression one would want to make with someone seeking truth? This would be like going to a foreign film at a theatre and not having any captions to explain the dialogue. How about if you paid to go to a concert and the person that got up on the stage didn’t have a clue how to play an instrument, wouldn’t you be dissatisfied to say the least? So how do you think the so called Christians come off when they act like a bunch of lunatics in the name of Christianity, would it be something our Lord would approve of? If you are motivated by anything other than the love of God, it doesn’t make any difference how much faith you have, or how many scriptures you can rattle off, or how much you think you are accomplishing for the Lord, it’s all for naught unless it is brought forth in love. Greater love has no man than to lay down his/her life for the brethren, fellow believers, putting their needs before your own. 1 Corinthians 12:28-31 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. (29) Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? (30) Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? (31) But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way. (KJV) God has set an order in His church, which He describes as the body of Christ. If you are called to be a teacher, don’t try to be an apostle or prophet. Do you have an understanding as verse 30 refers to in the area of tongues or the interpretation of them, or are you just imitating someone else by thinking the more you can speak in tongues and the louder you are, the more others will think you are spiritual? The best gift we can covet and hold to is the gift of Christ, and everything in the above verses is a result of the manifestation of Him. So now it is a matter of learning how to operate effectively in the Spirit so that we can provide the need not only for ourselves, but be able to build up those that are seeking as well. Proverbs 15:2-4 The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness. (3) The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good. (4) A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit. (KJV) The tongue is an extension of the heart; so what is in the heart is what the mouth will speak. Before you act, before you speak something into existence, ask yourself, ‘is this something that is spiritual and will bring life to the hearers, or is it something that is confusing, and rather than lead someone closer to the Lord it will drive them away?’ So if something is not peaceable then it is not of God; and I can assure you that a lot of this mumbo jumbo stuff sounds more like a voodoo chant than something that is going to build up and edify someone. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 John 3:11-13 For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. (12) Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous. (13) Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you. (KJV)
What did Abel do wrong to deserve the hate which led to his death? The answer is nothing; however, he did choose to hold God to be true, which brought about the persecution. So what are you doing wrong or think you are doing wrong because you have brought the wrath of man to the surface and manifested what is really going on in the heart? Don’t stand in awe or wonder, and marvel if the world and its ways hate the message you live and bring forth, rather continue in the love of God even though the majority of what we are surrounded with chooses to hate. Even back to the beginning of mankind we see the strife and contention manifested in the form of hatred; so if you encounter these things on the path of life you are walking don’t be ashamed or think it strange, rather rejoice because you are partakers of the same sufferings that others who have chosen this same path have encountered. John 15:17-21 These things I command you, that ye love one another. (18) If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. (19) If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. (20) Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. (21) But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me. (KJV) We see the warnings again of what will happen to those that choose to be followers of our Lord and the opposition they will encounter. As you see though, we should not take these things personal, as it is not us they hate but the One we represent, that is who they truly hate and despise. Whatever visions you had of Christianity, or however our Lord has been portrayed by mankind, are most likely based on illusions of pleasing man, people pleasers if you would, which we are surrounded with and why so many are weak. They persecuted our Lord they will do the same to you. So get used to it and be prepared; don’t take it personal, because all they are doing is taking their frustrations out on the messenger. We are like postmen who must deliver the mail despite the fact that there are some nasty dogs out there that bark and bite. Our responsibility is to deliver the message, a message of hope and love to a dying world, even though they may interpret it as hate. John 17:13-16 And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves. (14) I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. (15) I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. (16) They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. (KJV) Our Lord’s prayer for His people shortly before His crucifixion was for their edification and comfort, despite the hatred they would encounter after His departure. The more one grows in the knowledge of our Lord and the things of His realm, the more it will contradict those of this realm, the world as it is referred to and its fallen ways. The more you let the truth set you free the more it will convict those that wish to establish their own righteousness which is based on works and not on grace. The Lord was in this world but not of it and did not subject Himself or His belief in its system and way of thinking. We too are confronted daily with the same temptations and man’s way of thinking, that if we would only bend a bit here and compromise a bit there then we could fit in with the world, and not have to suffer the hatred and persecution. But like Paul said, if we seek to please man then we cannot be the servants of Christ. John 7:1-7 After these things Jesus walked in Galilee: for he would not walk in Jewry, because the Jews sought to kill him. (2) Now the Jews' feast of tabernacles was at hand. (3) His brethren therefore said unto him, Depart hence, and go into Judaea, that thy disciples also may see the works that thou doest. (4) For there is no man that doeth any thing in secret, and he himself seeketh to be known openly. If thou do these things, shew thyself to the world. (5) For neither did his brethren believe in him. (6) Then Jesus said unto them, My time is not yet come: but your time is alway ready. (7) The world cannot hate you; but me it hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil. (KJV) We see that our Lord was not always a crowd favorite and well received. It got to the point where He had to be watchful where He went because many didn’t take His message as one of love, but rather chose to hate. Isn’t it just like mankind illustrated in verse 4, who thinks they need to go and show themselves to the world and demonstrate the things of God to a larger audience in order to be a success? But the Lord knew His calling and who He was seeking to please. And the more He chose to love, the less He was loved, rather hated. And just like our Lord, just because those that have been close to you don’t believe, even your own brothers or sisters, it doesn’t mean you are a failure or have done anything wrong. John 7:5 [Neither did his brethren believe in him.] They did not receive him as the promised Messiah; but, having seen so many of his miracles, they could not but consider him as an eminent prophet. They supposed that, if he were the Messiah, he would wish to manifest himself as such to the world; and, because he did not do so, they did not believe that he was the salvation of Israel. (from Adam Clarke Commentary) Luke 6:22-23 Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake. (23) Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets. (KJV) Don’t always think right away that you have done something wrong, or that you are offending people in a negative way just because you choose to live the truth and be a true believer of our Lord, not just in word but in deed as well. Although our Lord brought a message of love to a fallen mankind, many choose to hate rather than reciprocate His love in return; and if you experience these situations in your own walk don’t think it strange, rather rejoice in that you are partakers of these same sufferings which are an evident sign that you are on the right path and in good standing with our Father. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 2 Peter 1:5-10 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; (6) And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; (7) And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. (8) For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. (9) But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. (10) Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: (KJV)
Have you made your calling and election sure today? Do you truly know where you stand with our Father, and the fact that you are in good standing with Him according to His word? Like with marriage, many of them fall apart because of a lack of communication, the love that was once there grows cold, and one of the members may start looking elsewhere to fill the void. Your commitment with the Lord is based on a love and trust relationship. We love our Lord because He first loved us, and sent His Son to lay down His life so that we could inherit eternal life. You learn to trust in that love you have for the Lord. And the more you seek Him through His word and prayer, the more He reveals Himself to you in a personal loving manner. As we see in the above verses the wonderful virtues of our Lord are a part of His divine nature in which we are also partakers. Once again we see the word charity in verse 7, which is the same as love. Those that lack in any of these areas are blinded by their carnal understanding, forgetting that they were purged from their life of sin by the grace of God and not by their own works. For one to continue in the Lord and endure to the end they need to take the time on a daily basis to communicate with our Lord so that they can keep their calling intact and secure. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, (5) Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; (6) Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; (7) Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. (8) Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. (KJV) I have failed in many things in my own life because it was not based on the love of God, but rather my own self serving desires of the flesh. I have found that of all the things I have tried, and all the things that I had started and didn’t finish were because I would lose interest and not be content. The only thing that has ever worked for me, the only foundation that is able to withstand all the storms of this life, is Jesus Christ and His love that I have allowed to be shed abroad in my heart. Many people claim virtues based on their own works, and claim to be fine upstanding people because their own abilities and beliefs. I have found for myself the love of God and His virtues, partaking of His divine nature to be the only thing that allows me to finish what the Lord has started within me. I am not a long suffering person on my own, and having grown up in this fallen world, I many times would vaunt myself up especially in my mind though in reality I was nothing more than a legend in my own mind. Patience is a virtue I didn’t like waiting around for. So if I didn’t get what I wanted in the time frame I thought it should be delivered, then I would become easily provoked to think evil. However, only by coming to a knowledge of the truth and love of God, it’s only by His abilities and strength that I can bear up under all things, believe all things, which now includes those of the spiritual realm, hope all things as well, I now have Christ in me the only hope of glory. I can do all things through Christ which gives me the ability to endure to the end; receiving the end of our faith, the salvation of our souls. There are lot people that have come and gone claiming to have known God and spoken on His behalf, but it’s only those that truly know the love of God and are motivated purely for that reason who will endure to the end; and that love will never fail them or forsake them either. Galatians 5:5-6 For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. (6) For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love. (KJV) Without faith it is impossible to please God; a belief in God which only works by a love for Him. Without the love of God motivating us, many do believe in God but won’t walk by faith unless there is something in it for them, something that builds them up and makes them look good, rather than being a servant and building up others. It’s not the hearers of the word of God that are justified by our Lord, it’s the doers as well that will be justified in His sight. A true servant of the Lord is motivated by the love of God; which no love is greater, than for us to lay down our lives for our brethren. So what are your true motives for serving the Lord and how sure is your calling right now? Is it based on ‘what have you done for me lately Lord’, or is it ‘what can I do today Lord that would be pleasing in your sight’? 1 Timothy 6:10-11 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) There are those that have placed the love of money above their love for God, and in the end fall short. Many think and preach that money is the answer to all their problems in life, and the more money they have the more they have been blessed of God. It’s this deception that keeps many from experiencing the true love of God, replacing it with some cheap imitation of man. When you get hit with these silly money pitches and hundredfold return promises head for the door, put your hand to the plow and don’t bother looking back. Flee these things and establish a firm foundation in Christ which is based on a true love for our Lord by faith, with some patience and meekness for added measure. So many people have gone off the deep end and are drowning in destruction and despair with many sorrows that are attached to these money seeking doctrines. So before you jump in head first make sure the pool is full of living waters and not a mirage. Mark 12:29-31 And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: (30) And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. (31) And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these. (KJV) As a former long haul truck driver I would need a good vehicle that was well maintained to get me from one side of the country and back again. I have found in my Christian walk that the only thing that will sustain me and keep me on the path of life is the love of God which I have allowed to be shed abroad in my heart. Without this love and trust, like with many things I have begun and didn’t finish, I would not have been able to make it this far nor would I have any thought of enduring to the end. Remember, it’s not just those that begin the race that receive the prize, it’s only those that endure to the end and are in it for the long haul that will receive the reward of inheritance. And it’s only those that are able to experience personally for themselves the love of God that will not be detoured from achieving this goal. God bless, keep the faith, and endure unto the end in the love of God; and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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