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Good morning. Today's video Second Adam is continuing on the topic of the second man; the rock solid foundation being Jesus Christ, the chief cornerstone. You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry. Have a blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good morning. Today's video Second Man is on the topic of what is missing from the Church today; Christ, the second man, the Lord from heaven, the Son of God. You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry. Have a blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Galatians 5:22-26 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, (23) Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. (24) And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. (25) If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. (26) Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another. (KJV)
While some religious groups and organizations limit being fruitful to just the flesh, thinking that they have to have large families, being fruitful in the spiritual realm is what will be truly pleasing to our heavenly Father. It takes a healthy tree that is nourished on a daily basis to bring forth and bear this fruit, while anything else will leave one dried up and withering. Psalms 1:1-4 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. (2) But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. (3) And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. (4) The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. (KJV) What kind of farmer would you be if all your crops were dried up and withering away? You wouldn’t last very long before you went out of business, because somewhere along the line you got some bad counsel that obviously wasn’t of the Lord. Unless one becomes rooted and grounded in the truth, planted and nourished with living waters from the river of life, you won’t last long in the realm of the Spirit either but will dry up and wither away, eventually to be burned. There are a lot of cheap imitations out there, those that claim they are of God but actually not rooted and established in sound doctrine, but rather holding more to man’s outward interpretations of what should be words that bring spirit and life to the believer. You may not realize it at the time or even in some cases are not that concerned about it, but eventually it is going to manifest what source you have become attached to or rooted in; which is either going to be fertile or sterile ground. John 15:1-3 I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. (2) Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. (3) Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. (KJV) Williams New Testament translation of John 15:1-3 1. "I am the real vine, and my Father is the cultivator. 2. He cuts away any branch on me that stops bearing fruit, and He repeatedly prunes every branch that continues to bear fruit, to make it bear more. 3. You are already pruned because of the teaching that I have given you. You know, some of that stuff you keep hanging onto or those so called godly counselors you think are bringing you life are actually pulling you down, not building you up. Rather than letting the Lord have His way, and pruning you the way He sees fit, you end up throwing a fit and are no longer fit for His kingdom. You have a choice in the matter, because one way or another something is going to get cut off, either the dead things in your life or your place in the kingdom of God and the body of Christ, so which will it be? You have been grafted into the tree of life, that being Christ the one true real vine, so as long as you continue rooted and grounded in Him you too will be the real deal as well. John 15:4-6 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. (5) I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. (6) If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. (KJV) Williams New Testament translation of John 15:4-6 4. You must remain in union with me and I will remain in union with you. Just as no branch by itself can bear fruit unless it remains united to the vine, so you cannot unless you remain in union with me. 5. I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in union with me and I in union with him will bear abundant fruit, because you cannot do anything cut off from union with me. 6. If anyone does not remain in union with me, he is thrown away as a mere branch and is dried up; then it is picked up and thrown into the fire and burned up. You know, you really have to put on some spiritual blinders to think that this one and done doctrine, this once saved always saved stuff flies with our Lord. Oh there will be plenty of flies, but we all know what attracts flies don’t we? Oh you can get saved and walk with our Lord, but don’t think for one moment that you can’t walk away either; sometimes without the person even aware it happened. Without Him, without knowing who Christ the one true vine is for yourself you can do nothing, notta, zip, zilch, ain’t happening, period. Keep in mind folks, that in the end when someone is gathered and cast into the fire it is on the opposite side of heaven and not the one they should have inherited. You as a child of God are responsible for bearing the fruit of the Spirit, and not just on certain days or during certain periods of time when people say they are holy or special, but being in season, ready to give an answer to any one that would ask of the hope within you. John 15:7-8 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) Williams New Testament translation of John 15:7-8 7. If you remain in union with me and my words remain in you, you may ask whatever you please and you shall have it. 8. By your continuously bearing abundant fruit and in this way proving yourselves to be real disciples of mine, my Father is glorified. Whose words really have the most influence on you today? Are they words of life that remain a part of you, or is it something you have departed from? Out of your belly, or heart, should be flowing rivers of living waters bringing life to those around you, because you have remained rooted and grounded in truth, the one true vine that you have become a partaker of. If you truly desire to honor, or worship the Father, which is what the definition of the word glorified means, then for today stay planted and firm in His word bearing much of His fruit letting Him increase as you decrease. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 6:63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. (KJV)
Our Lord came so that we could have life and have it more abundantly. What our Lord considers abundance is far from what man thinks is an abundant life, a life only found in the realm of the Spirit. Words which are spiritual and brought life and enlightenment to the believers were spoken by our Lord, and He is still speaking to those that have ears to hear, seeking to hear the spiritual meaning and intention of the scriptures where this new life is found. There is a whole new realm of unending joy and peace, enlightening the heart and bringing life to those that find the true meaning of what our Lord is speaking to them about, and why He spoke the things He did. Have you found this life for yourself? Here’s a hint, you won’t find it in the old law, but rather by hearing the law of faith, one that will build you up and bring life to those that were once dead spiritually. 2 Corinthians 3:6 Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. (KJV) In order for you to be an able minister of our Lord you have to take the time to let the Lord minister unto you personally. Those that are chosen by our Lord to speak and teach on His behalf are those that are operating in the new life which is in the spiritual realm, and not according to the old laws and rituals. Those that hold to the literal meaning of the word of God miss the mark and kill the true interpretation of the message of Christ. You won’t find life in a graveyard or a morgue, nor will you find it in the letter of the old law and its rituals. In fact our Lord said that He is a God of the living and not the dead. So anyone that continues to hold onto the old law will not find the life God intended for them. When one takes the time to rightly divide the word of truth and hear God’s spiritual meaning of His word then it quickens or gives life to their inward man, while our flesh and its way of thinking darkens the true meaning of the message. Many think they can please a spiritual God with carnal ordinances, and they fall short of what our Lord intended for His people. Your ability to be an effective example of the believers, whether in word or in deed, will only be accomplished as you learn to speak words that will bring spiritual meaning and life to those around you. Out of your belly or the heart should be a river of living waters pouring out and bringing life; while many others are raining bitter waters of the letter of the law which kills any new growth. Romans 7:1-3 Know ye not, brethren, (for I speak to them that know the law,) how that the law hath dominion over a man as long as he liveth? (2) For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband. (3) So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man. (KJV) Another way of describing the letter of the law and its ordinances is like a woman with a husband, who is bound by an oath and commitment to that husband as long as he is alive. Once that husband has died, then she is released from that law and allowed to remarry. The death of the husband released her from that old law so that she could partake of a new life, making a commitment to a new man. Romans 7:4-6 Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God. (5) For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. (6) But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter. (KJV) When one becomes married they commit their life to that person and the two now become one. Someday there will be a culmination of the marriage between Christ and the Church. So for now while we are on this earth we need to honor our commitment in spirit and in truth if we wish to be true worshippers of our Lord. If you desire to do those things that are pleasing in the sight of our Lord then it can only be accomplished by those that worship or reverence Him in Spirit, walking in this realm and by the truth that sets us free to do so. The children of Israel were delivered from a terrible bondage, only at times to doubt the Lord and wish to return back to Egypt. In essence many Christians do the same thing. They are delivered from the law only to return back to it to find life, like looking for the living in a morgue. Why do people still keep hanging onto things that held them back and kept them separated from God rather than letting go so that they can walk in a newness of life? How many times have you seen people that were stuck in a relationship or situation with an overbearing person and your only thought is why don’t they just leave? How it must hurt our Father to watch His people still in bondage to dead things when He sent His Son and made a way of escape for them. The Lord provided our deliverance, a path that is located in the realm of the Spirit, and only those that hear His words of Spirit and life will find that path and walk out of Egypt. Romans 8:2-4 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. (3) For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: (4) That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (KJV) You have a clear path, a way of escape, a new law that trumps the old one and brings life to those that find it. A new law of faith is in Christ Jesus bringing a spiritual enlightenment so that you can see God’s true intention for you personally, not what He required for those under the old law. The flesh profits nothing and is no help in our walk, so quit following that path and get on the spiritual path that brings life. Romans 8:4-8 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (5) For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. (6) For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. (7) Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. (8) So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. (KJV) It’s a crime and a shame to see what God provided for His people only to see them revert back to their old ways and thinking. All the evidence is provided for each and every believer in Christ, and it all points to the Spiritual realm and not the fallen fleshly one. Where are you walking today, and what path are you following? Is it one of escape, or are you walking backwards toward a graveyard? There is a God who is bringing His people words that are Spirit and that are life; a new life in Christ which each and every believer should be partaking of on a daily basis. Get out of the old and get into the new. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 John 4:1-3 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. (KJV)
Strong’s definition for ‘try’: 1381 dokimazo (dok-im-ad'-zo); from 1384; to test (literally or figuratively); by implication, to approve: KJV-- allow, discern, examine, X like, (ap-) prove, try. Would you like to do a spiritual test to see if it makes the grade; then why not ask a spiritual question? What is one of the first things one asks when they wish to identify someone? How about the name, or what name they go by? A name will give the identity of a person, who they are and what their family lineage is. When you ask someone their name you will find that the first name they give is quite common with mankind, say for instance John. When I think of the name John, different people and personalities come to mind. However, when you ask them the rest of their name then it narrows the field and identifies them with a certain family. When one names the name of Jesus they speak of a common name among mankind, one that many have used. However, when you use the name of Jesus Christ you have now identified a man sent from heaven, a man now seated at the right hand of the Father making intercession for His people. By giving the complete name you now give an accurate complete account of who you are dealing with, the one and only name under heaven whereby we can obtain salvation. You know, this test that is being referred to, was given by another man, one I know passed it himself. Matthew 16:13-15 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? (14) And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. (15) He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? (KJV) As we see in the above verses someone else also gave a test to see who knew the true identity of the Son. As we see all these names were common among mankind, well known by many, yet not what our Lord was looking for. So what is the answer our Lord was revealing to His people and wishes to reveal to His people concerning Himself? Matthew 16:16-18 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. (17) And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. (18) And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. (KJV) There’s that name again, the complete name that gives the whole answer that our Lord was looking for back then and is still looking for today, those that truly wish to serve Him in Spirit and in truth. You know what people, if Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever, then that name, the answer Peter gave, would still hold true today would it not? Furthermore, if you look at the source of where Peter got his response you see it came from a God who cannot lie and who thought it was important enough to make mention of it. A builder wouldn’t dare erect a building without having a firm foundation to build on, so why would God’s people try to build on anything less than what was approved by God? John 17:1-3 These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: (2) As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. (3) And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. (KJV) The Lord’s prayer shortly before His departure from this earth clearly spells out who He is and the one name that will give us eternal life. Again I reiterate that if this name was good enough for Him and got Him access to the heavenly realm as well as an eternal reward, would it not be good enough for you? If our own Lord and Savior used this name to describe Himself then obviously it is meant for us to use as well in order to gain access to the kingdom of God. Luke 2:25-32 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. (26) And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ. (27) And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, (28) Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, (29) Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: (30) For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, (31) Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; (32) A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. (KJV) Interesting to see again what was revealed to Simeon by the Holy Spirit; something that made it complete. While most everyone was looking in the outward realm and saw a child named Jesus, the spirit was revealing Christ the inward man that would bring a spiritual enlightenment to a fallen world. What or who do you see when reading the scriptures, do you just see and acknowledge Jesus of Nazareth, or has God revealed something deeper, beyond the realm of the flesh for you to see also? Galatians 1:11-12 But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. (12) For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. (KJV) You know whether it was Peter, Paul, or our Lord Jesus Christ, they all had one thing in common, and one name that identified them with God. They all knew personally for themselves who our Lord is and what name He acknowledges as His. If someone comes your way this day to see where you stand, will you be able to pass the test, or will you end up like many, giving man’s answer to a heavenly question? 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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