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Good morning. This week's video Breathed, is on the topic of Genesis 2:7 And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life: and man became a living soul. You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry. Have a blessed and prosperous week in Christ Jesus our Lord. Williams New Testament translation for 2Timothy 2:15-19
15. Do your best to present yourself to God an approved workman who has nothing to be ashamed of, who properly presents the message of truth. 16. Continue shunning worldly, futile phrases, for they lead on to greater depths of godlessness, 17. and their message will spread like a cancer; men like Hymenaeus and Philetus, 18. who have missed the truth by saying that the resurrection has already taken place, are undermining some people's faith. 19. But God's foundation stands unshaken, with these inscriptions: "The Lord knows the people who belong to Him, "Everyone who bears the name of the Lord must abstain from evil." You know, when you became a child of God and embraced His message of love, it is at that point that we need to let go and discard things that lead to death, similar to a cancer spreading in the body. The reason many of these spiritual cancers spread is because someone chose to try and justify their lower fallen nature by twisting the word of God to fit their lifestyle rather than seeking to be justified in the eyes of the Lord. Remember that talk your parents had with you concerning the birds and the bees, and the one you need to have with your children concerning reproduction, what is and what is not approved by our Lord? Well it seems many who profess to be Christian or Christ like, naming His name, have not departed from iniquity but rather embrace it and find ways to justify their lack of diligence in the Word and self control of their temple. In other words a phrase that comes to mind, do as I say and not as I do. 1Thessalonians 5:22-23 Abstain from all appearance of evil. (23) And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (KJV) You know, it’s amazing how many people in the so called church realm, those that name and claim they are Christians, throw caution to the wind when it comes to relationships between a man and a woman. Rather than take the time to know that the person they are involved with is one they would marry, so many have the mindset that it is ok to shack up, live together outside of marriage. Times may have changed and the mindset of waiting till one is married to consummate this union seems so old fashioned, but let me tell you something that is much older in fashion, that is, living outside the realm which God blesses, sin, being under the curse. If you truly loved this person the way our Lord loves His church then you would respect that person enough to remain sanctified, spirit, soul, and last but not least folks, body as well. You wonder why there is a lack of trust in your relationship people, maybe the fact that the person you are involved with was so willing, and yes even easy with the body before the marriage; it makes you wonder what is going to be so faithful afterward doesn’t it? How about you guys, you know the one that is supposed to be the head of the woman, how much of Christ did you demonstrate and hold fast to beforehand, or did you cave in and give up without a fight? Oh but we’re just living together, God knows our heart. Yes He does, but what about others that are watching you now that you claim to be a Christian, especially when we should not even have the appearance of evil? 1 Corinthians 6:13-15 Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body. (14) And God hath both raised up the Lord, and will also raise up us by his own power. (15) Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid. (KJV) You know, some day you are going to have to stand before God and give an account of what you did with His temple, which you just happen to be. The devil made me do it, or everyone else was doing it, won’t get you into His kingdom, but rather it will get you an eternity of separation from God because you were willing to sell your soul for a feeling. Not to mention the other person involved that you led astray also; you know the warning we were given about a millstone being tied around the neck and cast into the sea? Oh it sounds so old fashioned to many out there in the world, but all one has to do is take a look around and see how backwards things have gotten because many choose to please their flesh more than a God in heaven. 1 Corinthians 6:16-20 What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh. (17) But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. (18) Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. (19) What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? (20) For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. (KJV) You may think a harlot is somebody standing on the corner looking for customers, but I got news for you, that nice so called Christian guy or gal that engages in sexual immorality, in other words anything outside of marriage, is considered a harlot as well. So guess what that makes you if you willingly partake in these practices? 1 Corinthians 8:12 But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ. (KJV) Whether it is a brother or sister in the Lord, if you are the one that has wounded and enticed them into sin, especially an area where they may be weak in, you are in essence sinning personally against Christ Himself. So before you decide to be so hap hazard in your decisions and throw caution up with the winds of doctrine that seem to be blowing through the Church amongst God’s own people, it’s time you re-realize the facts of life concerning how to posses your vessel in sanctification and honor. Ephesians 5:25-27 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; (26) That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, (27) That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. (KJV) In conclusion, if that person really loved you the way you, a child of God should be loved, then that person would be spending more time building you up in God’s word and not tearing you down in the world and its ways. Christian man or woman, if that person you are thinking about isn’t willing to wait and respect you before there is a marriage or even talk of one, then there would be no reason to think they would afterward either. If that so called Christian person thinks shacking up or taking a test drive before the marriage is fine then that should be warning enough for you to kick him or her to the curb. You want the blessing of God in the relationship or anything else that you do, then it’s His way or the highway, a not so highway that leads to a dead end. Remember that talk we were given when we were children about the birds and the bees, well it seems like there are a lot of childish people who call themselves Christians who need to be taught again some of the basic principles concerning their walk with Christ and the fact that He doesn’t change with the times. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. James 1:17-18 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. (18) Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. (KJV)
When God sends something our way it’s not only good but it is perfect, complete, supplying all our need, spirit, soul, and body. When God so loved the world seeing how mankind had fallen, He sent His Son on our behalf so that the fellowship with Him could be restored and we could be a kind of firstfruits or one of His offspring, adopted into the heavenly family in Christ. Psalms 107:20-21 He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions. (21) Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! (KJV) When you pray to your Father in heaven do you expect a complete answer and manifestation of that request you made, or do you expect bits and pieces, a partial answer to your request? In other words, with all that God has sent our way for our benefit, how much is being sent back His way in the form of praise and thanksgiving, presenting yourself to Him as a living sacrifice, thanking Him for what He has done on our behalf and not a what have you done for me lately attitude? Someday when you return to Sender and have to stand before your heavenly Father will you be able to give a complete answer to what you did with His plan of salvation, or will you be speechless and unable to give a full account of the gift of life that was given on our behalf? Ephesians 4:11-15 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; (12) For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: (13) Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: (14) That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; (15) But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: (KJV) Williams New Testament translation for Ephesians 4:11-15 11. And He has given some men to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, some to be pastors and teachers, 12. for the immediate equipment of God's people for the work of service, for the ultimate building up of the body of Christ, 13. until we all attain to unity in faith and to perfect knowledge of the Son of God, namely, to a mature manhood and to a perfect measure of Christ's moral stature; 14. so that we may not be babies any longer, or like sailors tossed about and driven around by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men through their cunning in inventing new methods of error. 15. But, on the other hand, we shall go on holding to the truth and in love growing up into perfect union with Him, that is, Christ Himself who is the Head. You know, with all that God has done and provided for us is there any excuse why there are so many that rather than grow and mature in the Lord, which is what perfecting is referring to, we still see many babies who are being spoon fed and still on the milk of the Word. Know this also, that as long as there is still a body of Christ then there are still apostles and prophets, they didn’t die out with the early Church; people, that is just childish doctrine. If you truly love the Lord and made pleasing Him a priority in your life then you would take the time to read His word and rightly divide the doctrine of Christ and not be so caught up in a bunch of man’s fairy tales and childish lies and deceptions. If you truly desire to grow up and mature in the Lord then quit emulating man and go right to the source. You know, by following some man or imitating some preacher you think is a godly man you limit and stunt your own growth because this man you are following is human and limited, whereas going to God through Christ you are able to tap into an unlimited treasure of wisdom and knowledge, having the mind of Christ yourself. Romans 6:20-23 For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. (21) What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. (22) But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. (23) For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (KJV) What have you done with the gift of God, and what is the first fruit you plan on bringing to His throne someday; will it be one that is spiritual, or will it be rotten fruit that you are ashamed of? If someone in your family or anyone else that was close to you saw that you were starving and your family was in need of food, only to find out later that the gift they provided to feed your family was never used but rather discarded and rotten, how would that make them feel? Or what if you gave someone close to you a gift, something that was vital, even lifesaving, only to find out it was not put to use but discarded, you probably would not be jumping for joy either. So today, have you done all to stand, standing on the foundation God has provided for you, Jesus Christ being the only foundation one can build firmly on, or have you forsaken the gift of life and exchanged it for a cheap knockoff imitation? Luke 8:14-15 And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. (15) But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience. (KJV) With all that our heavenly Father has sent our way and desires to send for our benefit, what are you sending in return? You wouldn’t offer someone rotten fruit, or fruit that hasn’t ripened yet, but rather something that was fit and ready. The question today is, when you return to Sender will you be able to bring something to His table that is good and perfect; you know, like the same measure that was measured your way? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Peter 4:8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. (KJV)
Luke 10:25-28 And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? (26) He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou? (27) And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself. (28) And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live. (KJV) What do these two verses have in common? Well both verses deal with love, which is what the word charity means, and both deal with someone other than yourself. Now you are not going to go out and blab about all your shortcomings and sins to others, so the point being made here is why would you do it to someone else, especially those in the body of Christ? Most people, rather than deal with areas in their walk that can be a struggle or even something they know is sin, spend more time and effort covering it up rather than dealing with it truthfully. Those that do desire to deal with these issues and remove them from their lives do not wish to have them advertised or discussed in public, but are more apt to seek counsel from someone they can trust, someone who is not going to repeat everything they hear. Galatians 6:1-2 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. (2) Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. (KJV) How would you like your situation handled? Especially if you were struggling with an area that you knew was wrong but you weren’t sure how to make it right. Do you consider yourself when hearing things about others? In other words, how you would like a little compassion thrown your way and not as much finger pointing. You know, the one without sin gets to cast the first stone; so again consider yourself, because as long as you are in this temporal body you too are subject to temptation and would not want your faults broadcast on the evening news. The restoration is brought about by those that are spiritual, those that are less likely to react in the flesh but know how to respond in the Spirit because they don’t think of themselves more highly than they ought. Hey why do you think these tabloids do so good and sell out? Because they pounce and prey on the weak, and then air the dirty laundry in public which appeals to man’s lower nature, but is an abomination to the divine nature our Lord asked us to partake of. Proverbs 17:9 He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends. (KJV) You wonder why people don’t want much to do with others sometimes; because if they didn’t have other people to talk about they wouldn’t have anything to say. It’s not hard to figure out either, that if all these gossip groups which call themselves a church spend a good part of their time and effort pointing out the faults of others then you can be assured that they will be ripping you to shreds too once you are out of earshot. Not everything you hear folks’ needs to be repeated or passed on, but by knowing the love of God you will be able to rightly divide and keep it in prayer; you know, in the realm of the Spirit which is spiritual and so are the people that keep it there. Remember when you wound the brethren, which can be inflicted by words, you are in essence sinning personally against Christ Himself, which is not a good thing. Proverbs 29:11 A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards. (KJV) Well if they weren’t sure about you being a fool before, all it took was a few minutes of listening to what was coming out of your mouth to seal the deal. Not everything that passed through your heart and mind is always healthy or needs to be spoken. Knowing the difference of when to speak and when to keep silence can be the difference between wisdom and foolishness. Oh you may know something about someone, but is it really necessary to be bringing it up at this time? Or maybe there is a more appropriate time and place to deal with it when it is done in a spiritual manner and not some self righteous carnal one. 1 Peter 3:8-11 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: (9) Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. (10) For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: (11) Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it. (KJV) Oh but somebody said something about you so now it’s time to set the record straight? Well how about going straight to your prayer closet and hearing the correct response before you lash out in anger and make matters worse. Are you your own defense lawyer who thinks he has to justify himself every time something is said? Because remember he who is his own lawyer has a fool for a client. Do you truly love God and the new life He has given you access to? Then learn to keep that tongue in subjection to the Spirit so that the words you speak will be spiritual, bringing life, and not tearing down. Proverbs 11:12-13 He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace. (13) A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter. (KJV) So your neighbor said something about you, and rather than operate in the Spirit and being a man of understanding, understanding the love of God, you decided to dish the dirt on someone else and blow the cover off of your being a fool. If you were faithful, spiritual, and understanding of how the love of God operates, not just how it works on your behalf, but actually demonstrating it on behalf of others, you would have kept a lid on your mouth and not become some spineless talebearer. The restoration that could have been brought about by those that should be spiritual ends up in childish strivings and contentions by those that try and justify their fallen lower natures instead of operating in a mature divine nature. Proverbs 25:8-10 Go not forth hastily to strive, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof, when thy neighbour hath put thee to shame. (9) Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and discover not a secret to another: (10) Lest he that heareth it put thee to shame, and thine infamy turn not away. (KJV) Brown-Diver-Brigg’s definition for ‘infamy’: 1681 dibbah- whispering, defamation, an evil report a) whispering b) defamation, defaming c) an evil report, an unfavorable saying Ever hear the term ‘tripping over your own words’? Well that’s what happens when you put all those negative words out there, they end up snaring you instead. Which category would you truly say your life patterns? Is it one of love, loving others as you would yourself, or do you have the mentality of the world, climbing over others to get to what you think is the top? Maybe it is time to put a lid on it. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Ephesians 5:25-26 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; (26) That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, (KJV)
Picture this if you would, there is a knock on the door, dad gets up from his chair and answers to a young boy nervously standing there asking if the daughter is ready to go out on a first date. Dad himself is a bit nervous, checking the young boy out to see if he is right for his daughter, which in reality no one is, but giving him the once over to make sure this is someone who can be trusted with his precious offspring. Point is guys, remember that woman you went courting after years ago; you know that woman you just couldn’t live without? So how are things going these days, is there still a love for that woman; you know like how Christ loves His church and puts the need of the Church first and foremost, or has that love waned a bit, like a candle flickering in the wind? Oh by the way, that woman you dated and then decided to marry, that Christian lady is someone’s daughter also, someone who is always checking you out to see if that godly woman is being treated the way her Father in heaven expects her to be treated. So again gentlemen, how is that marriage and home life going these days; is there still a love for that woman like you pledged to her and her Father in the beginning, or has it been put on the back burner for something else? Hey guys, aren’t you glad God isn’t as fickle as you are, you know the fact that His love for you doesn’t change just because you have aged and maybe added a few pounds to the temple? Isn’t it comforting to know that His love for us won’t change or be altered by other younger, and what may appear more seemingly, attractive people according to the outward appearance? 1 Timothy 3:1-6 This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. (2) A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; (3) Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; (4) One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (5) (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) (6) Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. (KJV) So you want to be a bishop, an overseer of the flock as well as an example of the believers, not only in word but in deed as well? That is a good thing, but how is that home life going for you these days, and is there anything that is being overlooked and taken for granted; you know like that wife you chose, and those children you chose to bring into this world? Unless you have your house in order, and loving your wife the way Christ loves His church you have no business being in that position. While you may have had a strong desire to serve the Lord in a larger capacity, that being a bishop, you need to keep in mind the commitments you have made already, like with that woman that has the same last name as you, before the Lord will put you in a position of authority in the Church. Are you willing to be a servant, not only for the Church but at home as well; you know like in the beginning when you did all you could to impress your wife and treat her with nothing less than the utmost respect and honor, especially the fact that she is a child of God and one of His precious daughters? All those promises you made to her in the beginning to win her over; are they still being carried out, or has she become the servant and you think you are the master? You know it may sound a bit petty or unimportant, but if you are not going to be faithful in the least, or what you may consider the least, though at one time it was huge, then you won’t be faithful in much else either. Simply put, if you are not following through on your marriage vows the way you promised our Lord and His daughter in the beginning of your marriage, what makes you think He is going to trust you to oversee and make vows to others when you have taken for granted your home life? John 15:11-13 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. (12) This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. (13) Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. (KJV) Do you really understand the love of God? You know putting others and their needs first and foremost even before your own? Jesus Christ died for us while we were yet sinners, outside and separated by sin, so how much more should we be dying to self for those of our own household? So if you are fickle, flighty, giving half hearted efforts at home and not building up your wife in the word of God, but rather criticizing and tearing down; or if you were to become a bishop in the Church, how long would it be before you lose interest and treat the congregation the same way? Do remember guys, you know when your precious little daughter came home from her first date and you quizzed her about her whereabouts and what took place? There is a God in Heaven that is quizzing you right back about the whereabouts of His daughter and what is taken place spiritually under your watch also. Aren’t you glad God isn’t as fickle as we are and that His love doesn’t change for us, but that He loves us unconditionally for who we are? With that in mind, can you honestly compare your love today for your wife on the same level as what Christ has for His church, or maybe there is room for improvement? Something to ponder before you decide it is time to move up in your walk; something our Lord definitely is watching before He would appoint you, or anyone else to the position of an elder, deacon, or bishop of His church. The bar has been raised gentlemen, raised up and in heavenly places; so for today can you honestly say that your love for your wife truly compares with the love Christ has for His church? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Williams New Testament translation for Matthew 6:4-6
4. so that your deed of charity may be secret, and your Father who sees what is secret will reward you. 5. "Also, whenever you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners, to attract the attention of people. I solemnly say to you, they already have their reward. 6. But whenever you, follower of mine, pray, you must go to your most private place, shut the door, and pray to your Father in secret, and your Father who sees what is secret will reward you. God’s realm is different than man’s realm, one is spiritual one is carnal. If you wish to operate in the realm of God then it will take a certain mindset to see into this secret or hidden realm, the mind of Christ. How do you look at people and determine who they truly serve; do you base your assumptions on the outward as many do, or do you look to the secret inward man to make your determination? When you attend an organization do you base your fellowship with them by the size of the building and how nice the people are, or are you looking for something deeper, something with some spiritual depth and truth? 1 John 4:1-4 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. (2) Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: (3) And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. (4) Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. (KJV) Actually there is a test, a simple way to truly determine if someone is of God or what could be categorized as a not exactly, close but this isn’t a game of horseshoes. Remember when the Lord said many are called but few are chosen? Well, we see in the above verses what has happened to the many and is still happening. Simple, but they just don’t pass the test, the spiritual discernment that separates the men from the boys, the can do people and the wannabes. If the teaching and preaching doesn’t focus on Christ, the inward spiritual Son of God that was leading and guiding a man named Jesus, then they haven’t come to a working knowledge of the mystery of the gospel; which sad to say is still a mystery to many. While many teach and preach in the name of Jesus, they in essence have got the cart in front of the horse, or in this case they put more emphasis on the outward than the inward. However if one goes through the New Testament and sees what the mystery of the gospel is and the name that was and still is revealed to God’s people, it goes way beyond just a man named Jesus the son of a carpenter. Those that confess that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh have a personal working knowledge of who the Son of God is and what is the only true hope that will get us access to His kingdom. When I hear people end their prayers in the name of Jesus and those that write books about all the power in his name, it tells me they don’t truly know God or His mystery, a secret that they are still in the dark about. The only way one can be whole and complete, to grow and mature in the things of God, is by knowing the mystery of the kingdom of God which is only found in Christ, while anything less is antichrist. Which if one is not for Him then they are against Him. 1 Timothy 2:5-7 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; (6) Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. (7) Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity. (KJV) You know, if the word of God says there is only one mediator between God and man, and our God is not one to lie, then anything else is just that, a lie. If you were to ask people today what their access code is to their bank account, most everyone would be able to tell you exactly what it is so that they can access it. But ask people what the spiritual access code is to heaven and you will find few that truly know the answer to this secret. Just like with an access code to a bank or a computer, if you leave out any part of it you don’t get access in. Is it any wonder then that the enemy is referred to as the spirit of antichrist and not anti Jesus? You wouldn’t leave any part of your code out to get into a bank account, why would you omit the most important part to get access into your spiritual account as well? Why be half right, when you could be all right? The fact that God used His people to write about His mystery and the sufferings they endured for it as well, it would do you well to give heed to His message and know that the scriptures were given for our benefit to see into His secret realm. 2 Corinthians 5:16-18 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; (KJV) Again we see that we should no longer be looking after the flesh or the outward, but rather into the inward new creation to find the answer to the mystery of the kingdom of God. The things of this fallen realm are old news, same o same o, it’s in Christ that all things are new because you have entered a new realm of the Spirit that is eternal. Remember God said that He is a Spirit and so is His Son; so if you are going to know Him and how to operate in His wisdom, it can only be accomplished through Christ that you can be a new creation in Him. God is not a God of the dead but of the living, so old things and old thinking needs to be passed away, dead and buried, so that a new man can resurrect in you. John 4:22-26 Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. (23) But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. (24) God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (25) The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. (26) Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he. (KJV) Many today don’t pass when it comes to the heavenly test because what they call worship is mostly done in vain, something that looks good to the outward but does nothing to further the growth of the inward. Jesus had an answer to a secret, and that answer was in the direction of Christ, the inward new creation that was within Him and is within you also. Here is a test, a homework assignment if you would, go back through the scriptures and see if you can find a common denominator to what the Lord called Himself and what name He gives credence to. After all what better example could we have than the one that already passed the test from above and is now seated at the right hand of the Father? Test the Spirit and know this, that if you don’t know or are unable to pass it today don’t wait until it’s too late to know the secret that will get you access into God’s kingdom. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matthew 6:4-6 That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. (5) And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. (6) But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. (KJV)
Seeing in secret, which is how our Father views people, now refers to something hidden or concealed, the inward man. Those that God reveals Himself to are the ones that serve Him in Spirit and in truth doing all things heartily as unto Him and not seeking accolades or recognition from man. To the natural or carnal man it is foolishness to think that a God in heaven would encourage, let alone actually speak to people; but to those that have been enlightened into the realm of the Spirit it is something expected, hoped for. Romans 8:24-25 For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? (25) But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. (KJV) Strong’s definition for ‘hope’: 1679 elpizo (el-pid'-zo); from 1680; to expect or confide: KJV-- (have, thing) hope (-d) (for), trust. What is your hope today and where are you looking to find it? Are you still looking in the outward realm to find the answer or secret that has been concealed, or are you able to see the inner workings of our Lord to establish that trust and confidence? In an election year there are many promises, people claiming to have an answer to what many are hoping for, a better life. The truth be known, that while many promise liberty they themselves are still servants of corruption, having sold out to the world and its fallen ways. A true believer in God will find the answer in a secret hidden realm, that of the Spirit which is not seen by man but open and on display for those that seek to find Him. 2 Corinthians 4:18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. (KJV) God sees in secret and desires for His people to seek their answer in this realm as well. While many preach and teach of a better life in this fallen temporal realm, few look and truly walk in an eternal hidden realm, the only one that will give an eternal reward. Today many still teach and preach about a man named Jesus seeing only the outward man. But there was so much more to this man than the human eye could see, and those that truly knew our Lord understood the inner man, a secret spiritual man named Christ. Those that are still stuck in the temporal realm have only a temporary incomplete answer, while those that tap into the spiritual realm will find the eternal one. While your alms or so called good deeds look good to man, many of which come in the form of religion, there is a true body of Christ that knows what the only hope is that will be pleasing to our Father. Colossians 1:25-28 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; (26) Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: (27) To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: (28) Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: (KJV) Paul explains his calling to teach and preach about a mystery, something hidden and concealed, but now made known to mankind, a secret that is now out. Our only hope, expectation of glory is found in Christ; and the only way one will find that they are able to grow and mature is in Him. Christ is the power and wisdom of God, the Spirit that leads and guides us on the only path that will lead to eternal life, while anything else is just a false hope. If you wish to tap into the inner workings of our Lord, the secret hidden things, then you will only find it through Christ Jesus, the one and only mediator between God and man. What are you hoping for today; are you still looking to the outward or some man to find the answer to the secret of our Lord, or have you gone deeper in your search to find the true answer to a spiritual mystery? 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) Simply put today, it is one and done; one body of believers which is the body of Christ. One Spirit; which if any man has not the spirit of Christ then they are none of His; and as we just read one man is our only hope of glory, you got it Christ. According to the word of God it all adds up to Christ, while anything less would just be hopeless and futile. 1 Corinthians 8:5-6 For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,) (6) But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. (KJV) There are a lot of cheap imitations out and about in this fallen world, many things or people that claim to have the answer. There is only one answer though that will be accepted by our Father, and that is a spiritual answer to a spiritual secret which is being manifested to us by a working knowledge of His Son Jesus Christ. Do you know the answer to the secret? Someday you will be asked to give it before our Father; why not let that be today. That is my hope for each and every believer in Christ, God bless. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matthew 6:1-4 Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. (2) Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. (3) But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: (4) That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. (KJV)
Strong’s definition for ‘secret’: 2927 kruptos (kroop-tos'); from 2928; concealed, i.e. private: KJV-- hid (-den), inward [-ly], secret. Wanted, someone willing to serve a God in heaven because they love Him and are not concerned with what people think of them. This person must be highly motivated, willing to endure much grief and suffering because they hold God to be true to His word despite the many winds of doctrine of man and all their own carnal interpretations of salvation. The successful applicant must also be willing to worship God in spirit and in truth, no longer led by the desires of the flesh but led by the Spirit, being renewed on a daily basis. If interested, please respond by calling God through His Son Jesus Christ, the one mediator between God and man. When responding to an advertisement we see terms and conditions that are required in order to be a part of an organization or company. When responding to the call of the Lord you will find a God that looks in secret, or the secret inward part of man, the motives of our heart. If the Lord finds someone trustworthy, then He reveals His secret to them as well, similar to someone getting hired with a company and given access to the inward workings of it. What are your motives for serving the Lord? Is it based on love and commitment or are you doing it to be seen by man? If to be seen by man, then you have your reward and not our Father’s. Psalms 25:14-15 The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant. (15) Mine eyes are ever toward the LORD; for he shall pluck my feet out of the net. (KJV) When you see the word ‘fear’ it doesn’t refer to someone trembling and shaking, or knees knocking, but rather someone who reverences and respects the calling of God. We have all had secrets that we didn’t want everyone else to know because we didn’t trust them, so we would only reveal it to those we did trust, those that knew how to keep a secret. Did you know God has a secret; something He has kept concealed but now is readily revealed to His people, something that has been kept hidden from mankind? As I look around today I don’t see many that are aware of His secret, because obviously the motives of their heart are not right with the Lord. Most of what and who I see claiming to be speaking and teaching on behalf of the Lord are more of a people pleasing ear tickling lot, than a God pleasing one. Romans 16:25-26 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, (26) But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith: (KJV) One of God’s true saints, someone that God entrusted with His word and secret was a man named Paul, who despite a shaky past had the right motivation for serving our Lord. When you read what God had Paul write concerning this secret, a mystery that is hidden to the carnal man but readily revealed to the spiritual one, we see once again His preaching was based on Christ, the hidden inward man. What a secret to reveal, and why this man endured such opposition; because the more God used this man to expose this mystery the more it exposed and still exposes those that are not of God, thus the term antichrist. Like the Lord Himself said, those that are not with Him are against Him, if two are not in agreement then they can no longer walk together. If you don’t know this secret, if you are not aware and have a working knowledge of this mystery, then you are still in darkness and unable to know the true spiritual meaning of the scriptures. Mark 4:21-23 And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick? (22) For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad. (23) If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. (KJV) The reason God revealed this mystery is so that His people could walk in the light and no longer kept in the dark. Jesus Christ is the true light that gives us knowledge and insight into the inner workings of God and His plan of salvation, while anything else is impossible without Him. This light was not meant to be hid, but rather openly displayed and manifested so that all could walk in it. Today I still hear many who teach and preach in the name of Jesus, but few look into the inward man which is Christ to find the true enlightenment and answer to this secret. Is the candle under your bed because you are still asleep or have you picked it up and started to walk again? Isaiah 45:3 And I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places, that thou mayest know that I, the LORD, which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel. (KJV) The treasures of God have been kept secret, and mankind was kept in the dark until the sacrifice of Jesus Christ gave us the keys to unlock these hidden things and reveal it to His people. Can you think of anything that could be more treasured than to have our Lord call you personally by name and consider you one of His family? Where your treasure is there will your heart be. So when the Lord comes a knocking on your door will you open up to Him and let His light shine in, or will you be a shut in? The secret is out, given to mankind in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, have you received it? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Mark 4:11-12 And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables: (12) That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them. (KJV)
Isn’t it nice to know something or someone before you commit your life to it? Better yet isn’t it nice to know that you have salvation before it is too late and you committed the unpardonable sin, that being unbelief, where you stand before God some day and basically tell Him He is a liar? Unto you, yes you right now this day, it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God so that you personally can see and perceive the things He has for you. A mystery is something hidden, concealed, and covered up to mankind and his carnal thinking but readily revealed, open, and exposed to those that have their spiritual senses enlightened to the things of His realm. Mark 4:13 And he said unto them, Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables? (KJV) If you are not able to comprehend and know for yourself the mystery of the kingdom of God then you will continue to be in darkness and unable to know the things of God and the meaning of His word. So what has been given to mankind that they need to know, and is there a common denominator that will enlighten me to the things of His realm? Ephesians 3:1-5 For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, (2) If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: (3) How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, (4) Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) (5) Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; (KJV) Thayer’s definition for ‘mystery’: 3466 musterion- 1) hidden thing, secret, mystery a) generally mysteries, religious secrets, confided only to the initiated and not to ordinary mortals b) a hidden or secret thing, not obvious to the understanding c) a hidden purpose or counsel; secret will: 1) of men 2) of God: the secret counsels which govern God in dealing with the righteous, which are hidden from ungodly and wicked men but plain to the godly 2) in rabbinic writings, it denotes the mystic or hidden sense: of an Old Testament saying, of an image or form seen in a vision, of a dream What was made known to Paul by revelation and the knowledge he taught and spoke of was the mystery of Christ. Christ, the hidden inward man, the son of God dwelling within Jesus of Nazareth, who was leading and guiding Him in the things of God; who was dwelling within Paul giving him knowledge into the things of God as well. Many people I hear today who claim to be speaking on behalf of our Lord teach and preach in the name of Jesus without a working knowledge of who Christ is, something that obviously is still a mystery to them, something they haven’t had personally revealed to them either. Ever wonder why Paul had so much hardship and persecution? Ever wonder why the enemy of Christians is referred to as the spirit of antichrist, and not anti Jesus? Obviously there is a name and a revelation, a mystery the enemy would like to keep secret, locked up and kept from the people of God to tap into. Colossians 1:25-28 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; (26) Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: (27) To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: (28) Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: (KJV) The perfection, maturity, and completeness will only be found in Christ by those that come to a working knowledge of who they are in Him and how they too can access all these spiritual riches that are given for them to know. Verse 26 is clear to point out that this wisdom is manifest to the saints, the true saints of God that preach and teach in the name of Christ; while all the others are still operating according to their own understanding, basically standing on the outside trying to look in through a veil. Colossians 4:2-4 Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving; (3) 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) Our prayers today should be for those that are called to teach so that they can give utterance to this same mystery and speak words that will make manifest this mystery for all of God’s people to see and know for themselves. 1 Timothy 3:16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. (KJV) The mystery of Christ, the Spirit that allowed Jesus of Nazareth to be justified by God and received up into glory seated at the right hand of the Father. Unto us it is given to know and not just guess what the answer of this mystery is; which is what every person will have to give someday before our Father. The question today is, do you know for sure? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 3:27-28 John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. (28) Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him. (KJV)
Back in the Lord’s short time here on this earth people were looking for a Messiah to manifest which they thought would take place in the outward realm; some wonderful spectacular event for all the world to see. While many continue today to look in the outward realm also, or as we see in the above verses at other men as their savior; few understand what was truly given to us from the Father which is manifested and brought to light through His Son, the hidden inward man. What are you receiving today; is your information and knowledge coming from above, or are you settling for second hand knowledge of man that is limited by their carnal thinking? Do you know for sure that the steps you take today are of faith; in other words those that God is asking of you, or are you following some man-made plan of salvation that doesn’t quite add up to our Lord’s standards? Salvation is a gift given to mankind from above, and just as you would be offended to give something of value to someone close to you only to find out it wasn’t appreciated or that they didn’t take the time to read the instructions before putting it to use; how it must hurt our Father to have so much to give to mankind only to see it ignored and discarded for a cheap imitation. Psalms 37:23-26 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. (24) Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand. (25) I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread. (26) He is ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed is blessed. (KJV) Where are you heading today, and who is truly directing your path? Are you taking the time to receive your instructions from above knowing they are in order with our Lord, doing the things that are pleasing in His sight? Even though at times we do sin and fall short of the glory, the Lord is not casting us aside but rather like with a parent teaching a child to walk, He is there with His hand outstretched ready to pick us up again and get us back on the path of life. John 15:4-8 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. (5) I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. (6) If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. (7) If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. (8) Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. (KJV) Again we see the word nothing, which without the Lord’s leading and guiding in our walk we cannot do those things that are pleasing in His sight. As a branch grafted into the tree of life the only way we can live and continue in this new life is if we continue to receive our nutrients from the source. As newborn spiritual beings in Christ we need to receive and continue to nurture this new being inside us with spiritual food and drink in order to maintain a healthy relationship with our Father. Those that reject our Lord’s plan of salvation have broken off the line of communication with their Father; they are no longer receiving His living waters and they will dry up and die of thirst, eventually being burned. John 3:14-18 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: (15) That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. (16) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (17) For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. (18) He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. (KJV) God gave us a Savior, and gave Him a name above all names so that those that received this revelation should not perish but have eternal life through this name. Verses 15&16 use the words ‘should not’ not ‘would not’, because the choice is still ours to choose this day who we will truly serve and whether or not we will truly receive the gift of God which is eternal life through His Son Jesus Christ. Acts 4:7-12 And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this? (8) Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, (9) If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; (10) Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. (11) This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. (12) Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (KJV) God gave mankind access to eternal life, and only one name under heaven gives us this life so that we should not perish but receive our eternal reward as well. It’s a given to the people of God who our one mediator between us and God is; as well as the whole name that will make us whole and complete in Him, that being Jesus Christ. It’s a given, have you got it? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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