Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7
No need to be anxious when we can at all times appropriate the perfect provision of our Lord. We do this by prayer and thanksgiving for all He has given us. The formula: 1. Make request. 2. Relax. 3. Wait. God's very own peace will garrison (stand guard. Military term. Permanently placed sentry) the thinking part of your soul (heart) and your mind (intellect) IN CHRIST JESUS. This is not wishful thinking or positive thinking, brethren, it is Catagorical Bible Doctrine resident in the soul of the believer who has made a lifestyle of soaking it up. Doctrine in ~ Doctrine out. Oh, yes you CAN learn it. You are designed to do just that, and God has given you the tools. Holy Spirit+Written Word+Pastor-Teacher+submission to authority=Divine Viewpoint=PEACE.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Citizenship
But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body. Philippians 3:20-21
Our day is coming, brethren. Our Lord is coming back for us in His perfect time, and in that day we will be exactly like Him. We don't need to DO anything to earn or deserve that promotion. Jesus paid the price for us at Calvary. When we believed in His finished Work, we were placed IN HIM for all eternity. He designed our destiny, and has prepared a place for each of us. We don't need to concern ourselves with exactly what that will be, because we cannot comprehend it, just as the tadpole in the puddle knows not what his life will be like in maturity. Just take care of business here, and at the right time, we will be in our eternal state, just like our Lord.
Our day is coming, brethren. Our Lord is coming back for us in His perfect time, and in that day we will be exactly like Him. We don't need to DO anything to earn or deserve that promotion. Jesus paid the price for us at Calvary. When we believed in His finished Work, we were placed IN HIM for all eternity. He designed our destiny, and has prepared a place for each of us. We don't need to concern ourselves with exactly what that will be, because we cannot comprehend it, just as the tadpole in the puddle knows not what his life will be like in maturity. Just take care of business here, and at the right time, we will be in our eternal state, just like our Lord.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Above Every Name
Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:9-11
"Therefore," because of His voluntary submission to the authority of God the Father, the Father exalted Him. "The name" is Jesus. He has saved His people from our sins (Matthew 1:21). That name is superior to all other names, because of the supremacy of the One Who bears it. There is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12). There will come a day when even those who have rejected His gospel message will have to acknowledge Him as Lord, for that is Who He is, from eternity past. It is He Who will sit in judgment of those who think their own works are more important than His perfect provision. Salvation is free, because the Soveriegn Lord of the Universe paid. His name is our endorsement.
"Therefore," because of His voluntary submission to the authority of God the Father, the Father exalted Him. "The name" is Jesus. He has saved His people from our sins (Matthew 1:21). That name is superior to all other names, because of the supremacy of the One Who bears it. There is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12). There will come a day when even those who have rejected His gospel message will have to acknowledge Him as Lord, for that is Who He is, from eternity past. It is He Who will sit in judgment of those who think their own works are more important than His perfect provision. Salvation is free, because the Soveriegn Lord of the Universe paid. His name is our endorsement.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Attitude
Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Philippians 2:5-8
The attitude is humility. Willingness to submit to the authority of God. Result: obedience! Even to the point of death on a cross. God the Son gave up His glory and subjected Himself to the humiliation of becoming a man, with all our physical obnoxiousness, and even suffered the curse of crucifixion. That's laying down the Life. When we develop Jesus' attitude of humility, we learn to lay down our lives by foregoing our own plans and preferences for the sake of the Gospel, the Church and our loved ones. In that attitude, we can accurately represent our Lord.
The attitude is humility. Willingness to submit to the authority of God. Result: obedience! Even to the point of death on a cross. God the Son gave up His glory and subjected Himself to the humiliation of becoming a man, with all our physical obnoxiousness, and even suffered the curse of crucifixion. That's laying down the Life. When we develop Jesus' attitude of humility, we learn to lay down our lives by foregoing our own plans and preferences for the sake of the Gospel, the Church and our loved ones. In that attitude, we can accurately represent our Lord.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Encouragement
Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Philippians 2:1-2
Encouragement: we are in this together, pilgrims. Consolation: let's make the best of it and help one another. Fellowship: sharing of faith and priorities. Affection: brotherly love. Compassion: bearing one another's burdens. We as Church function best in doctrinal like-mindedness, mutual love, spritual unity and oneness in our purpose: The bold proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This can be achieved, brethren, when we learn and practice the humility that was demonstrated by our Lord.
Encouragement: we are in this together, pilgrims. Consolation: let's make the best of it and help one another. Fellowship: sharing of faith and priorities. Affection: brotherly love. Compassion: bearing one another's burdens. We as Church function best in doctrinal like-mindedness, mutual love, spritual unity and oneness in our purpose: The bold proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This can be achieved, brethren, when we learn and practice the humility that was demonstrated by our Lord.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Suffer For His Sake
For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have. Philippians 1:29-30
Suffering for Christ is specific to the tribulations of a Christian who is under pressure for his testimony. We all have various adversities in life. That's life. When we carry the cross of Jesus, it means to be firm in our declaration of Jesus' finished Work as the only means of salvation. That testimony brings the wrath of the world on the believer, because of the world's hatred for the Name of Jesus. Paul had many human troubles, just as everyone will, but he was persecuted and imprisoned for one thing only: preaching Christ. We who believe could very well also be granted the privilege to suffer for Him. He will comfort us in that, just as He did Paul, even to his death.
Suffering for Christ is specific to the tribulations of a Christian who is under pressure for his testimony. We all have various adversities in life. That's life. When we carry the cross of Jesus, it means to be firm in our declaration of Jesus' finished Work as the only means of salvation. That testimony brings the wrath of the world on the believer, because of the world's hatred for the Name of Jesus. Paul had many human troubles, just as everyone will, but he was persecuted and imprisoned for one thing only: preaching Christ. We who believe could very well also be granted the privilege to suffer for Him. He will comfort us in that, just as He did Paul, even to his death.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Nevertheless
What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed; and in this I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice, Philippians 1:18
We are still human. Still in these mortal bodies, inhabited by the old sin nature. As such, we tend to be critical of those who teach differently, practice differently, or even are claiming to represent Jesus in a way we know to be insincere. Nevertheless, Christ is preached! Truth is Truth, no matter who speaks it. Then let us rejoice, for anything done to mock our Lord will only exalt Him the more, and anything done to ridicule us believers will only strengthen our spiritual muscle, and bejewel our eternal crowns.
We are still human. Still in these mortal bodies, inhabited by the old sin nature. As such, we tend to be critical of those who teach differently, practice differently, or even are claiming to represent Jesus in a way we know to be insincere. Nevertheless, Christ is preached! Truth is Truth, no matter who speaks it. Then let us rejoice, for anything done to mock our Lord will only exalt Him the more, and anything done to ridicule us believers will only strengthen our spiritual muscle, and bejewel our eternal crowns.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Chains
As a result, (of Paul's imprisonment) it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear. Philippians 1:13-14
Paul, imprisoned for preaching Christ, continued to present the gospel to all who would hear; in this case, the guards who kept him in chains. That's what a committed Christian does, no matter the circumstances, no matter the audience. We have the goods, brethren. We will be placed where the hearers are most needy and most ready for God's Truth. Seeing the courage of Paul, other believers were emboldened to speak the Truth in their own surroundings, further spreading the gospel where they had been planted. The faith and determination of other believers encourages you and me to continue the work we have been given for the Kingdom. No matter what.
Paul, imprisoned for preaching Christ, continued to present the gospel to all who would hear; in this case, the guards who kept him in chains. That's what a committed Christian does, no matter the circumstances, no matter the audience. We have the goods, brethren. We will be placed where the hearers are most needy and most ready for God's Truth. Seeing the courage of Paul, other believers were emboldened to speak the Truth in their own surroundings, further spreading the gospel where they had been planted. The faith and determination of other believers encourages you and me to continue the work we have been given for the Kingdom. No matter what.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Providence
Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. Philippians 1:12
God uses everything that ever happens to us believers to advance the gospel. What may seem bad for us in the present was known by God in eternity past, and is designed to make the world aware of the grace provision of God. Our peace is our awareness of this truth in whatever circumstances we find ourselves. He always knew about it. He has provided for our endurance in it. Our testimony will awaken hungry souls to the perfect provision of God.
God uses everything that ever happens to us believers to advance the gospel. What may seem bad for us in the present was known by God in eternity past, and is designed to make the world aware of the grace provision of God. Our peace is our awareness of this truth in whatever circumstances we find ourselves. He always knew about it. He has provided for our endurance in it. Our testimony will awaken hungry souls to the perfect provision of God.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Confident
For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6
We who have believed in Jesus Christ for salvation belong to Him. It was His work that bought us, it is His work that keeps us. He has gifted each of us with grace perception and with certain spiritual skills, which are to be cultivated for the Kingdom of God. He sees to that, with Holy Spirit guidance through the scriptures as we interact with those He sends our way. In the day of harvest, His work in us will be revealed; perfect, as He is perfect. God's great handiwork on display for the ages. Mission completed.
We who have believed in Jesus Christ for salvation belong to Him. It was His work that bought us, it is His work that keeps us. He has gifted each of us with grace perception and with certain spiritual skills, which are to be cultivated for the Kingdom of God. He sees to that, with Holy Spirit guidance through the scriptures as we interact with those He sends our way. In the day of harvest, His work in us will be revealed; perfect, as He is perfect. God's great handiwork on display for the ages. Mission completed.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
New Testament
New Testament Writings: 4 gospels, 1 history, 21 letters to churches, 1 prophecy. Each one inspired by God, the Holy Spirit. Each one necessary to our complete understanding of God's plan and purpose for the Church.
In studying through Paul's epistle to the Church at Ephesus, there are large portions which are rich with wonderful doctrines, but the "walk-thru" format is not well suited for daily discussion of these highly technical teachings. My objective with these daily sharings is to enjoy with fellow saints an overview of the truths expressed by Paul (and later on, other NT writers), and to maybe spark some interest from other friends whose aquaintance with Jesus Christ is just what they've read/heard from the Gospel accounts of His earthly ministry. The Gospels are WONDERFUL as character study of the Son of God, as he came to accomplish His work for our salvation. That is not the whole story, though. The Gospels and the Acts were the beginning of our existence as Church, and the NT Epistles build upon that foundation to erect a magnificent structure in us believers, to show forth the glory of God. As a human infant must be nurtured into adulthood, baby believers must be weaned from the milk and learn to metabolize meat; solid doctrine, in order to function properly in the Body of Christ.
Let me be more clear: It is not for me to TEACH these epistles. My hope is that some will be aroused, either by curiosity or skepticism, to read the scriptures for themselves. You either love what I've brought to your attention and want more, or maybe you are offended by something I've pointed out but you don't believe is actually there. Either way, exposure to the written Word will enrich your soul and give you incentive to dig more deeply into the perfect Word of Truth. You don't believe it's perfect? Just keep reading. It will separate soul from spirit, joint from marrow and will show you who you really are. Now you're ready to be instructed by the Holy Spirit. The sower went out to sow.....
In studying through Paul's epistle to the Church at Ephesus, there are large portions which are rich with wonderful doctrines, but the "walk-thru" format is not well suited for daily discussion of these highly technical teachings. My objective with these daily sharings is to enjoy with fellow saints an overview of the truths expressed by Paul (and later on, other NT writers), and to maybe spark some interest from other friends whose aquaintance with Jesus Christ is just what they've read/heard from the Gospel accounts of His earthly ministry. The Gospels are WONDERFUL as character study of the Son of God, as he came to accomplish His work for our salvation. That is not the whole story, though. The Gospels and the Acts were the beginning of our existence as Church, and the NT Epistles build upon that foundation to erect a magnificent structure in us believers, to show forth the glory of God. As a human infant must be nurtured into adulthood, baby believers must be weaned from the milk and learn to metabolize meat; solid doctrine, in order to function properly in the Body of Christ.
Let me be more clear: It is not for me to TEACH these epistles. My hope is that some will be aroused, either by curiosity or skepticism, to read the scriptures for themselves. You either love what I've brought to your attention and want more, or maybe you are offended by something I've pointed out but you don't believe is actually there. Either way, exposure to the written Word will enrich your soul and give you incentive to dig more deeply into the perfect Word of Truth. You don't believe it's perfect? Just keep reading. It will separate soul from spirit, joint from marrow and will show you who you really are. Now you're ready to be instructed by the Holy Spirit. The sower went out to sow.....
Peace Love Faith
Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen. Ephesians 6:23-24
Paul, in signing off this epistle, wishes peace to his fellow believers, who are learning God's kind of love through faith (what we know about God). Peace and love are guaranteed by the Father (planner) and our Lord Jesus Christ (executor) of our salvation. Grace (blessing we cannot earn) is ours, who love our Lord Jesus Christ. The more we know Him, the more we love him; and we know Him through His Word.
Paul, in signing off this epistle, wishes peace to his fellow believers, who are learning God's kind of love through faith (what we know about God). Peace and love are guaranteed by the Father (planner) and our Lord Jesus Christ (executor) of our salvation. Grace (blessing we cannot earn) is ours, who love our Lord Jesus Christ. The more we know Him, the more we love him; and we know Him through His Word.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Fearless Proclamation
Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should. Ephesians 6:19-20
Paul wrote this epistle in prison. He was incarcerated for preaching Christ. Prison didn't intimidate him in his diligence to witness to the Good News (gospel) of Jesus Christ. He considered it his present assignment for the work of the Kingdom of God. He asked for courage to proclaim the mystery, which means a truth known only to the elect. The elect are those who have believed in the finished work of our Lord Jesus Christ; spiritually awakened ones who can comprehend God's Truth. That's why the New Birth is necessary. Natural man cannot see the Kingdom of God. (John 3:3). Those of us who know the mystery must proclaim it, wherever, whenever and to whomever will hear. God will recall to our mind the words we need at the right time. We must also pray for one another to do this with conviction and courage. If Paul needed help, WE need help. Help is available. Just ask.
Paul wrote this epistle in prison. He was incarcerated for preaching Christ. Prison didn't intimidate him in his diligence to witness to the Good News (gospel) of Jesus Christ. He considered it his present assignment for the work of the Kingdom of God. He asked for courage to proclaim the mystery, which means a truth known only to the elect. The elect are those who have believed in the finished work of our Lord Jesus Christ; spiritually awakened ones who can comprehend God's Truth. That's why the New Birth is necessary. Natural man cannot see the Kingdom of God. (John 3:3). Those of us who know the mystery must proclaim it, wherever, whenever and to whomever will hear. God will recall to our mind the words we need at the right time. We must also pray for one another to do this with conviction and courage. If Paul needed help, WE need help. Help is available. Just ask.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Battle Gear
Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:14-17
Our battle gear: Loins girded with Biblical TRUTH, ready for action. Breastplate of Christ's RIGHTEOUSNESS protects the vitals (innermost being), enabling us to continue the battle. Shoes represent sure-footed mobility for going forth and p...roclaiming the Good News of Christ's PEACE, which reconciles us to the Father. Shield of FAITH (what we know about God) repels the attacks of the evil one. Helmet of SALVATION, our knowledge of the person and work of Jesus Christ keeps our priorities in order. SWORD OF THE SPIRIT, our only offensive weapon is the Word of God! We learn it, we metabolize it, we apply it, we teach it, we use it to demonstrate the superiority of our One God and His grace provision for us in the devil's world.
Our battle gear: Loins girded with Biblical TRUTH, ready for action. Breastplate of Christ's RIGHTEOUSNESS protects the vitals (innermost being), enabling us to continue the battle. Shoes represent sure-footed mobility for going forth and p...roclaiming the Good News of Christ's PEACE, which reconciles us to the Father. Shield of FAITH (what we know about God) repels the attacks of the evil one. Helmet of SALVATION, our knowledge of the person and work of Jesus Christ keeps our priorities in order. SWORD OF THE SPIRIT, our only offensive weapon is the Word of God! We learn it, we metabolize it, we apply it, we teach it, we use it to demonstrate the superiority of our One God and His grace provision for us in the devil's world.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Full Armor
Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:11-12
"Stand firm." under combat conditions. Rulers: Demon Generals.Powers: Demon commissioned officers.World forces: Ambassador Demons to world capitols.Spiritual forces: Rank and file demons.... Much of the evil we see in the world is not necessarily of human origin. MUCH of it is of demon origin. We are at war, fellow saints, and it is not pretty. It is the Angelic Conflict. Our souls are the battleground. We are not in it alone, however. The LORD of the Armies is in charge of this battle. Our equipment is provided. The battle plan is drawn. Learn. Apply. Stand firm.
"Stand firm." under combat conditions. Rulers: Demon Generals.Powers: Demon commissioned officers.World forces: Ambassador Demons to world capitols.Spiritual forces: Rank and file demons.... Much of the evil we see in the world is not necessarily of human origin. MUCH of it is of demon origin. We are at war, fellow saints, and it is not pretty. It is the Angelic Conflict. Our souls are the battleground. We are not in it alone, however. The LORD of the Armies is in charge of this battle. Our equipment is provided. The battle plan is drawn. Learn. Apply. Stand firm.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Imitators
Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma. Ephesians 5:1-2
Whom we love we grow to resemble. Since the new birth, we bear within ourselves the characteristics of our Lord. As human children take on the habits and traits of human parents, sons of God learn His ways, growing in grace day by day. It shows in our willingness to love and forgive our brethren as we walk together before the Lord. He notices the sweet fragrance of the gracious life. That pleases Him.
Whom we love we grow to resemble. Since the new birth, we bear within ourselves the characteristics of our Lord. As human children take on the habits and traits of human parents, sons of God learn His ways, growing in grace day by day. It shows in our willingness to love and forgive our brethren as we walk together before the Lord. He notices the sweet fragrance of the gracious life. That pleases Him.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Bitterness
Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:21-32
Bitterness, rage and anger are stressful to the soul, spirit and body of the one who indulges in such behaviors as well as those who live and work with them. No good can come of it. Arguing, name-calling, personal insults in the guise of expressing opinions do not build solid reliationsips or edify the Body of Christ. Brawling, slander and malice accomplish nothing except to diminish one's capacity to clearly communicate and to destroy any respect others may have had for the brawler. We didn't learn these behaviors from Jesus. (v. 20)
Bitterness, rage and anger are stressful to the soul, spirit and body of the one who indulges in such behaviors as well as those who live and work with them. No good can come of it. Arguing, name-calling, personal insults in the guise of expressing opinions do not build solid reliationsips or edify the Body of Christ. Brawling, slander and malice accomplish nothing except to diminish one's capacity to clearly communicate and to destroy any respect others may have had for the brawler. We didn't learn these behaviors from Jesus. (v. 20)
Friday, July 15, 2011
Tools
But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. Ephesians 4:7
Each of us believers was given one or more spiritual gifts at the point of salvation. These gifts equip us for the work of the ministry. We have work to do, fellow saints, and God didn't leave us here without the tools to do it. The indwelling Holy Spirit leads, the written Word of God instructs, prayer empowers us to do the work of the Kingdom of God in the devil's world. It is a full-time, never-ending job, until our Lord comes back to claim His own. It is never dull or boring, for opportunity abounds. I wouldn't want to miss it.
Each of us believers was given one or more spiritual gifts at the point of salvation. These gifts equip us for the work of the ministry. We have work to do, fellow saints, and God didn't leave us here without the tools to do it. The indwelling Holy Spirit leads, the written Word of God instructs, prayer empowers us to do the work of the Kingdom of God in the devil's world. It is a full-time, never-ending job, until our Lord comes back to claim His own. It is never dull or boring, for opportunity abounds. I wouldn't want to miss it.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Exceedingly Abundantly
Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21
We don't even know what to ask for; what our Lord is capable of providing for us. We have the soveriegn, omniscient, omnipotent creator as our Father. He knows what we need, and He knows every prayer we will ever pray. Think about that. You don't know what you're gonna ask God for tomorrow or next week or next year, but the Eternal One knows, and has already provided that need, plus those things we didn't know we needed. He has always known you were gonna ask for that today, and has the perfect provision on standby. This is our testimony to future generations. This is His glory.
We don't even know what to ask for; what our Lord is capable of providing for us. We have the soveriegn, omniscient, omnipotent creator as our Father. He knows what we need, and He knows every prayer we will ever pray. Think about that. You don't know what you're gonna ask God for tomorrow or next week or next year, but the Eternal One knows, and has already provided that need, plus those things we didn't know we needed. He has always known you were gonna ask for that today, and has the perfect provision on standby. This is our testimony to future generations. This is His glory.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Being Built
And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. Ephesians 2:22
Believers are changed. Not by acts of our own will, but by the Spirit of God, Who lives within us; giving us His power, His compassion, His discernment, His righteousness. We can be bad examples if we fail to show forth His glory and grace,... but we can never fully return to the natural state. The Holy Spirit resides within, and will not relinquish His claim. So relax, believer. You are new species. Listen, learn and grow. Produce for the Kingdom. You will be absolutely no good as a worldling anymore.
Believers are changed. Not by acts of our own will, but by the Spirit of God, Who lives within us; giving us His power, His compassion, His discernment, His righteousness. We can be bad examples if we fail to show forth His glory and grace,... but we can never fully return to the natural state. The Holy Spirit resides within, and will not relinquish His claim. So relax, believer. You are new species. Listen, learn and grow. Produce for the Kingdom. You will be absolutely no good as a worldling anymore.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Household
Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. Ephesians 2:19-20
If you have believed in the finished work of Jesus Christ, you are Royal Family of God. A member of His household. You've been adopted as a son. All that He has is yours.
If you have believed in the finished work of Jesus Christ, you are Royal Family of God. A member of His household. You've been adopted as a son. All that He has is yours.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Brought Near
But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. Ephesians 2:13
Each of us was formerly far off from God, because we were born condemned by the sin we inherited from our father, Adam. By one man sin entered the world. Through the finished work (blood) of the one man Jesus, each of us can become a member of the Royal Family of God. (Romans 5:12-17) No one has the advantage. All are condemned. All can be saved.
Each of us was formerly far off from God, because we were born condemned by the sin we inherited from our father, Adam. By one man sin entered the world. Through the finished work (blood) of the one man Jesus, each of us can become a member of the Royal Family of God. (Romans 5:12-17) No one has the advantage. All are condemned. All can be saved.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Works
For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. Ephesians 2:10..who gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds. Titus 2:14
Which comes first, the salvation or the works? The salvation, of course! There is no way any human can do any works which will earn us salvation. We are not capable of divine good in our "old man" nature. Indeed, we don't even know what it is. God the Father made the plan, God the Son executed the plan whereby we could become Spirit-filled members of His family; a people who belong to Him, who know human good is no good and delight in showing forth God's love in the devil's world.
Which comes first, the salvation or the works? The salvation, of course! There is no way any human can do any works which will earn us salvation. We are not capable of divine good in our "old man" nature. Indeed, we don't even know what it is. God the Father made the plan, God the Son executed the plan whereby we could become Spirit-filled members of His family; a people who belong to Him, who know human good is no good and delight in showing forth God's love in the devil's world.
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Have Been Saved
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2:8-9
Faith alone in Christ alone. That is God's policy for our salvation.
Salvation is free to us because Jesus paid. That simple. That profound. We have nothing to brag about. Just gratitude for the grace of our God.
Since Jesus paid the penalty for all sins of the human race, there is nothing you have done or can ever do that hasn't been atoned for. He had to do it, because we can't. He is qualified by the virgin birth, which brought Him into the human race sinless. He lived a sinless life and died as the spotless lamb of God, portrayed in the Old Testament Atonement ritual. When the individual human believes in Jesus' finished Work, he is born again, with a human spirit that can comprehend God. You can never be unborn. You grow in grace, or you stagnate as an unproductive believer, but you will always be His child. Here's the issue: Jesus did all the work. All we can do is recieve, and there is no merit in receiving. When you begin to doubt your security as a child of God, ask yourself: "what have I done; what can I ever do to circumvent God's perfect plan?" Our sins are not bigger than God's plan and our good deeds don't add anything to our salvation. I had a wonderful Bible teacher who called it arrogance to believe we could in any way alter what God has accomplished for us. I agree completely. After we believe, we are IN CHRIST, a technical term identifying our eternal position as part of His body, forever. You can be in or out of fellowship with God, but never again unborn.
Faith alone in Christ alone. That is God's policy for our salvation.
Salvation is free to us because Jesus paid. That simple. That profound. We have nothing to brag about. Just gratitude for the grace of our God.
Since Jesus paid the penalty for all sins of the human race, there is nothing you have done or can ever do that hasn't been atoned for. He had to do it, because we can't. He is qualified by the virgin birth, which brought Him into the human race sinless. He lived a sinless life and died as the spotless lamb of God, portrayed in the Old Testament Atonement ritual. When the individual human believes in Jesus' finished Work, he is born again, with a human spirit that can comprehend God. You can never be unborn. You grow in grace, or you stagnate as an unproductive believer, but you will always be His child. Here's the issue: Jesus did all the work. All we can do is recieve, and there is no merit in receiving. When you begin to doubt your security as a child of God, ask yourself: "what have I done; what can I ever do to circumvent God's perfect plan?" Our sins are not bigger than God's plan and our good deeds don't add anything to our salvation. I had a wonderful Bible teacher who called it arrogance to believe we could in any way alter what God has accomplished for us. I agree completely. After we believe, we are IN CHRIST, a technical term identifying our eternal position as part of His body, forever. You can be in or out of fellowship with God, but never again unborn.
Friday, July 8, 2011
That You Will Know
I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that YOU WILL KNOW what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe...Ephesians 1:18-19
Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. Psalm 25:5
Production in the Christian life, as well as peace of mind, is determined by how much we KNOW of God and His plan for us. Each ...of us is capable of learning all God has to teach. It is a matter of submission to the authority of His Word and dependence on the Holy Spirit's guidance. And just look at the glorious package presented in these few verses of Ephesians Ch.1! There is a lifetime's worth of doctrine there, to learn, savor and store for our daily walk. Feelings won't carry you very far, pilgrim. You must orient to the "hope of His calling.""Hope" means expectation. Confidence. Anticipation. We cannot anticipate or share what we do not know about.
Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. Psalm 25:5
Production in the Christian life, as well as peace of mind, is determined by how much we KNOW of God and His plan for us. Each ...of us is capable of learning all God has to teach. It is a matter of submission to the authority of His Word and dependence on the Holy Spirit's guidance. And just look at the glorious package presented in these few verses of Ephesians Ch.1! There is a lifetime's worth of doctrine there, to learn, savor and store for our daily walk. Feelings won't carry you very far, pilgrim. You must orient to the "hope of His calling.""Hope" means expectation. Confidence. Anticipation. We cannot anticipate or share what we do not know about.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Know Him Better
I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. Ephesians 1:17
Paul is describing his own prayer for the Christians at Ephesus, but this is a prayer that we who love God and His Word pray daily for ourselves and each other; and yes indeed, our offspring! The more we grow in wisdom, the more God reveals to us about Himself. This is not something we can do on our on. God gives us help through the teaching ministry of the Holy Spirit. Objective: to KNOW HIM BETTER.
Paul is describing his own prayer for the Christians at Ephesus, but this is a prayer that we who love God and His Word pray daily for ourselves and each other; and yes indeed, our offspring! The more we grow in wisdom, the more God reveals to us about Himself. This is not something we can do on our on. God gives us help through the teaching ministry of the Holy Spirit. Objective: to KNOW HIM BETTER.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Marked With A Seal
And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory. Ephesians 1:13-14
Gospel of your salvation: you were purchased with His blood. Marked with a seal: He purchased us, He owns us. We are His eternal possession. He has guaranteed our inheritance IN CHRIST. Why? to demonstrate His Own glory. Not because we are good. Because He is God.
Gospel of your salvation: you were purchased with His blood. Marked with a seal: He purchased us, He owns us. We are His eternal possession. He has guaranteed our inheritance IN CHRIST. Why? to demonstrate His Own glory. Not because we are good. Because He is God.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Mystery Of His Will
In all wisdom and insight He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His kind intention which He purposed in Him with a view to an administration suitable to the fullness of the times, that is, the summing up of all things in Christ, things in the heavens and things on the earth. Ephesians 1:8-10
It is not presumptuous of us believers to share with the world what we know about the Father's plan and purpose for us IN CHRIST. God is omniscient. He knows the end from the beginning. HE made the plan. He has made known to the Church His plan. His plan is summed up in the finished work of His Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. "the mystery of His will" is a technical term for doctrine understood only by the initiated; in this case, the Church; the Body of Christ. We are commanded to learn and teach this plan to all who will receive it. That's our job.
It is not presumptuous of us believers to share with the world what we know about the Father's plan and purpose for us IN CHRIST. God is omniscient. He knows the end from the beginning. HE made the plan. He has made known to the Church His plan. His plan is summed up in the finished work of His Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. "the mystery of His will" is a technical term for doctrine understood only by the initiated; in this case, the Church; the Body of Christ. We are commanded to learn and teach this plan to all who will receive it. That's our job.
Monday, July 4, 2011
In Him
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us. Ephesians 1:7-8
In Him: Jesus Christ. Redemption: purchased out of the slave market and set free. Blood: our Lord's perfect sacrifice of Himself. Believers are forgiven and lavished with the abundance of God's riches for one reason only: our position IN CHRIST. He is our peace, our security, our confidence, our power. If you have believed in Him, you are IN CHRIST forever. Rejoice!
In Him: Jesus Christ. Redemption: purchased out of the slave market and set free. Blood: our Lord's perfect sacrifice of Himself. Believers are forgiven and lavished with the abundance of God's riches for one reason only: our position IN CHRIST. He is our peace, our security, our confidence, our power. If you have believed in Him, you are IN CHRIST forever. Rejoice!
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Every Blessing
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ..Ephesians 1:3
Our qualification for every spiritual blessing: IN CHRIST. That's our position from the moment we believed in Him. His Father is our Father. Our blessings are securely reserved in the heavenly places for all eternity, because our Father has made it so. Remember Whose you are.
Our qualification for every spiritual blessing: IN CHRIST. That's our position from the moment we believed in Him. His Father is our Father. Our blessings are securely reserved in the heavenly places for all eternity, because our Father has made it so. Remember Whose you are.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Refreshment
And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. Galatians 6:9
In this life we're gonna be weary anyway. Don't despair. There is refreshment in learning and sharing God's Word as we are given opportunity. In all we believers do, we represent our Lord Jesus Christ. That knowledge is its own reward in the present, and we cannot know what awaits, except that God has provided the highest and best for His children. Keep plugging, pilgrim!
In this life we're gonna be weary anyway. Don't despair. There is refreshment in learning and sharing God's Word as we are given opportunity. In all we believers do, we represent our Lord Jesus Christ. That knowledge is its own reward in the present, and we cannot know what awaits, except that God has provided the highest and best for His children. Keep plugging, pilgrim!
Friday, July 1, 2011
Fruit
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23
Contrasted with the DEEDS (plural) of the flesh (old sin nature), there is one FRUIT (singular) of the (Holy) Spirit. It is LOVE. Love is characterized by certain attitudes and behaviors. See, these characteristics of love are not things we have to work up. They are the normal production of the Holy Spirit indwelling and filling our lives. They are the evidence that we belong to Jesus Christ. They are the reflection of Him in our daily experience.
Contrasted with the DEEDS (plural) of the flesh (old sin nature), there is one FRUIT (singular) of the (Holy) Spirit. It is LOVE. Love is characterized by certain attitudes and behaviors. See, these characteristics of love are not things we have to work up. They are the normal production of the Holy Spirit indwelling and filling our lives. They are the evidence that we belong to Jesus Christ. They are the reflection of Him in our daily experience.
Deeds
Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. Galatians 5:19-21
Paul is drawing a contrast in these and the following verses of Galatians ch.5. These DEEDS of the flesh listed here are characteristic of the old sin nature. We inherited that nature from our fallen progenitor, Adam. My emphasis is on the plural term DEEDS. Each of these traits is common to the natural man. The continued practice of such behavior does not reflect God's Spirit and will not be tolerated eternity, where such practices will not exist.
Paul is drawing a contrast in these and the following verses of Galatians ch.5. These DEEDS of the flesh listed here are characteristic of the old sin nature. We inherited that nature from our fallen progenitor, Adam. My emphasis is on the plural term DEEDS. Each of these traits is common to the natural man. The continued practice of such behavior does not reflect God's Spirit and will not be tolerated eternity, where such practices will not exist.
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