“And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, ‘My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me” (2 Corinthians 12:7-9).

There is good reason to believe that the Thorn in the Flesh is an important Biblical principle. In both testaments, men and women of God were put through trials that perfected their faith and gave birth to God’s work. Many think that the same principle is still at work in Christians today.

What does the Bible tell us about the Thorn in the Flesh, and what conclusions may we draw?

1. Those with the greatest gifts may endure the greatest trials.
2. The Thorn is designed to humble the recipient, helping him keep things in perspective.
3. The Thorn likewise encourages others to glorify the message, not the messenger.
4. The Thorn is given by God, but administered by satan (figure that one out!).
5. The infirmity cannot be “rebuked” away.
6. The Thorn has both a physical manifestation (e.g., weakness) and a spiritual counterpart (“messenger of satan“).
7. The Thorn may make us appear weak and cause others to despise us, but the spiritually open will receive us.

   “Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first. And my temptation which was in my flesh ye despised not, nor rejected; but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus,” Galatians 4:13-14).

8. God’s strength shines through when we are weak.

   “When I am weak, then am I strong,” 2 Corinthians 12:10).

9. God gives “more grace” to those he gives more trials.

   “His grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me,” 1 Corinthians 15:10).

10. The Lord may never remove the Thorn, no matter how we beg.

Now what further insights can you draw?

© 2002 Paul A. Hughes

Send your questions to the Pastor
at pastor@cueroassembly.org

It was to a land of dark people he was sent, to cloth them in white robes. Fifty long years he had travelled, Jude, and today he was here. He walked along the sandy beach, where his small ship, a boat really, had grounded, only a few minutes previous. His first footstep imprinted itself on the sand, and then was washed away, leaving behind no mention of this man’s first moment in India.  His people, friends some, walked alongside, but most hurried along to the main settlements of the port of Palayoor. To trade, to buy the spices of Kerala for but a little, and then to sell for but a little more. Those who stayed by his side were afraid, but they had been afraid for many a year of the world’s tyranny. But this man, so alike in feature to the other, his twin brother, reassured them merely with his presence, and so they walked with him towards the lengthening shadows of a red sunset.

His brother said many true things, and many things he believed to be true, for Jude knew his brother better than he knew himself. But doubt kept creeping up in his heart, faulty logic instilled by a world already corrupted. He saw the fire and the spears of those against his brother, but one man, and he trembled while others stood firm. And all he said came to pass, but still Jude harboured his disbelief deep within. And then the ultimate proof, shocking proof, and Jude could not but surrender, the rocky walls of his softly whispered lies broken down, to let the thunderous waters of faith into his heart.  Fifty long years, and he had spent much time thinking, reflecting, and his thoughts he wrote down on many scrolls, painstakingly, for he seldom could stay long in any place. And the more he wrote and reflected, the more he began to believe, to know, to experience the truth. The joy of the truth overcame him, and he began to speak to all those who listened, those who would not turn aside. And so he came to this distant land, a land of dark people, not running away from his destiny any more, but towards.

Jude walked slowly, regaining his equilibrium from many weeks at sea. He saw a small boy standing near, a dark boy, a shade he had never seen before. The boy stared at Jude, curious, and then scurried away, not from fear, but because his parents had called. Jude looked to see, and he saw in the distance, along the sandy beach, the little boy’s parents, and many more besides. They stood near another boat, a fishing boat close at hand, and prepared to welcome it back from the sea.

A fishing village. He watched, a smile on his face, as the fisherpeople came ashore from their day’s work. They worked tirelessly, dragging the net on long ropes of jute from their boats, bringing their catch in. Today was a good day, and so they would eat with joy tonight. They noticed this man, and a few others besides, close by, and so they worked watchfully, observing from beneath half lowered eyes as they toiled. For no man had come to the village, not in living memory, but for the merchants who bought their fish.

Fish for them was their sustenance, their daily bread, but the people of the town looked down at them, sniffing at the air of this seaside town daintily almost, when one of the fisherpeople passed too close in the streets. This town had evolved, as had many a town, for the fisherpeople to be a race apart, unwanted, both them and their fish. Gradually man and fisherman grew apart, distinct in their lives from birth to death, for no pujari would perform the rituals. And this was just the way it was, fatal acceptance inevitable. In poverty they lived, for the rich sustenance of their fish, life giving, went to others of uncertain caste, their produce of the lowest value. No man spoke to them, and eventually the fisherpeople did not exist – they were dead in this discriminating society. But life went on nonetheless, and in the daily rituals of activity they hid from their hearts this shame.

Ismail the Arab arrived presently, looking at the fish with crafty dismay, pointing to the small and ignoring the big, playing the game of commerce with the fisherpeople. He too saw Jude, and Jude saw him. Jude walked to Ismail the Arab, and with a smile said “Will you translate for me?

Ismail the Arab did as Jude asked, and many of the fisherpeople looked at Jude with toothy grins when he spoke:  A wise fisherman cast his net into the sea and drew it up from the sea full of little fish. Among them the wise fisherman discovered a fine large fish. He threw all the little fish back into the sea, and easily chose the large fish.”

A murmur went up among the fisherpeople, for this strange man, standing apart from them, different from all the life on this land, had come to them, and spoke to them, like they too were alive. Their capacity for wonderment, to be a part of something Great, long asleep, begins to creep awake, slowly, but knowing it can make this journey back to the land of the living. A word spoken gently, sometimes, can awaken the deepest insight even in a life unlived.

Jude Thomas, the Apostle, brother of Jesus, began to speak again, not just to the fishermen, but to all men:

…the Kingdom of God is inside of you, and it is outside of you. When you come to know yourselves, then you will become known, and you will realize that it is you who are the sons of the living Father. But if you will not know yourselves..

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HOW TO LIVE A LONG LIFE AND SUCCEED

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You must have BOTH success and a long life of wholeness in order to administer effectively the areas He gives you to possess. Unless God has chosen you to be a martyr, you must have health, length of days, and a long life to maximize the occupation of your victory!

HOW TO LIVE A LONG LIFE & SUCCEED

MUSIC / INTRO

Do the RIGHT thing!

“Now therefore hearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto the judgments, which I teach you, for to do them, that you may LIVE, and go in and POSSESS the land which the LORD God of your fathers gives you.” [Deuteronomy 4:1]

The Hebrew word for “live” in the above passage is “chayah” meaning “to keep alive, nourish, recover, repair, restore, and be whole.”

The Hebrew word for “possess” used above is “yarash” which means “to occupy by driving out previous tenants and possessing in their place, to seize, to inherit, to take possession.”

In the parable of the nobleman [Luke 19:13] Jesus alluded to the fact that we need to “occupy, or do business” until He returns again. We need to be good stewards of our resources:

1. What He has put into our hands (all that He has given us by birth, adoption, or assignment);

2. And, of our life and strength.

The Greek word for “occupy” is “pragmateuomai” which means “to busy oneself, to trade.” In other words, strive to be productive and successful while you are carrying out the Lord’s business. Don’t become inactive. Live a long life and succeed . . . take possession of the enemy’s territory and rule it! (See “Note” at the end of these shownotes.)

MUSIC

This is one aspect of the ABUNDANT LIFE which the Messiah of Israel promised us: not only LIFE but FLOURISHING LIFE.

Moses instructed the people of Israel, “Set your hearts unto all the words which I testify among you this day, which you shall command your children to observe and do, all the words of this law. For it is not a VAIN thing for you; because it [the Word of God] is your LIFE; and through this thing you shall PROLONG your days in the land, where you go over Jordan to POSSESS it.” [Deuteronomy 32:46-47]

The Hebrew word for “vain” above is “req” which means “futile.” It is saying in the original Hebrew that the Word of God is “not empty or worthless” but it will . . . if you observe and do it . . . give you LONG LIFE and SUCCESS in driving out the enemy and POSSESSING his territory. Here’s what you can count on:

1. Length of days;
2. Wholeness and nourishment;
3. Success;
4. Possession of the inheritance.

Length of days, wholeness and nourishment, success, and possession of the inheritance are yours!

In one of King David’s Psalms he writes, “By this I know that You are well pleased with me, because my enemy does not triumph over me.” [Psalm 41:11]

MUSIC

Scripture also tells us, “When a man’s ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” [Proverbs 16:7]

As God gives you success, and as you drive out the enemy and possess his land, people will many times be jealous of you. Sometimes these may be brethren in the faith who are jealous of you. The enemy of your soul will try many ways to oppress you and to destroy your HEALTH. If your health (mental, physical, or spiritual) is weakened you will not be able to fight strongly and you will not live a long life to keep administering the areas God has given you to possess.

You must have BOTH success and a long life of wholeness in order to administer effectively the areas He gives you to possess. Unless God has chosen you to be a martyr, you must have health, length of days, and a long life to maximize the occupation of your victory!

This is why you must not only LISTEN and OBSERVE the Word of the Lord, but you must DO His Word. Then you will LIVE and POSSESS the land . . . and you will PROLONG YOUR DAYS in the land you go to POSSESS. [Deuteronomy 4:1 and 32:46-47]

Proverb 28:9 tells us, “One who turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer is abomination.”

MUSIC

The great passage that sparked the Reformation in the time of Martin Luther was Habakkuk 2:4: “Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him; but the just shall LIVE by his FAITH.” It is literally saying that the person whose soul is “swelled” or “presumptuous” is not “straight or right” . . . not “pleasant or prosperous.” The root word for “LIVE” in this passage is the same Hebrew word “chayah” used in Deuteronomy 4:1 that we discussed above, and means “to keep alive, nourish, recover, repair, restore, and be whole.”

In other words, the person who does WHAT IS RIGHT will be continue to be nourished, restored, and whole by means of the FIRMNESS and CONSISTENCY of his faith: his fidelity and conscientiousness! Because of his solid belief he does the right thing!

“A FAITHFUL man will abound with blessings, but he who hastens to be rich will not go unpunished.” [Proverbs 28:20] The word for “faithful” here used is from the same root as the word for “faith” in Habakkuk 2:4. A man of firmness and stability through faith will have abundant blessings.

Moses said, “I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing . . . choose LIFE so that you and your children may LIVE so that you may LOVE the LORD your God, that you may OBEY His voice, and that you may CLING to Him, for He is your LIFE and the LENGTH of your DAYS, and that you may dwell in the land . . .” [Deuteronomy 19-20]

Do the RIGHT thing!

MUSIC

NOTE: For more information on how to OBTAIN and CONQUER, study Prince Handley teaching titled, “Keys to Finishing the Mandate in These Last Days.”

Podcast time: 9 minutes, 37 seconds

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I am exited to explore in depth the doctrine of Charity, which is the pure love of Christ or the way Christ loves us.

1 Corinthians 13:1-13

Verses 1-3 tell me how important Charity (Love) is. If we spoke with the tongue of angels or had the gift of prophecy or understood all mysteries, if we don’t have charity then we are as nothing. We need to have charity more than all knowledge or all faith. We can give away everything we have to feed the poor or sacrifice our bodies to be burned but if we don’t live with charity then it is for nothing. If we have all kinds of great gifts bestowed upon us or do any number of great things we are “nothing without charity”. We can’t base our salvation on just one or two things we have to include Charity or it is all in vain.

What is charity? Charity in verse four is broken down in specific attributes so that we may fully understand what charity is.4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; 6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; 7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

Verses 8-13 further illustrate how important Charity is in our lives by comparing it to other important aspects of the gospel of Jesus Christ8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. 9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. 11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. 13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

Moroni 10:46-47

46 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, if ye have not charity, ye are nothing, for charity never faileth. Wherefore, cleave unto charity, which is the greatest of all, for all things must fail — 47 But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him. 48 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when he shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be purified even as he is pure. Amen.This additional Christian Scripture passage adds to the importance of charity and teaches us more about Charity. All things must fail but Charity will never fail. This would indicate to me that we should invest much effort and prayer into obtaining the gift of charity so that it fills our sould and heart to overflowing. Verse 47 tells us that we must pray with all the energy of hear to be filled with this love.

This passage also teaches us that Charity is the pure love of Christ and when He comes again the second time if we are filled with Charity we shall be like Him. Charity is a purifying force as well.

So what exactly is Charity that it is so important? Charity is the “Pure Love Of Christ”. So when you read the word “Charity” substitute the phrase “pure love of Christ”.

Suffereth Long
The “pure love of Christ” suffereth long.

What does “Suffereth long” mean? In short “suffereth long” means patience. Consider the verse 1 Peter 3:20 In part that verse says “when once the long-suffering of God waited in the days of Noah…” We also know that mankind was extraordinarily wicked in the days of Noah. God was very patient having Noah call them to repentance before the destruction of the flood. One of the online dictionaries defines “long-suffering” as: “patiently enduring lasting offense or hardship”. There again is the word “patience”. Part of the pure love of Christ (Charity) is patience.

This means that we need to have patience. Patience toward who? We are told to have Charity like Christ does and Christ is patient towards all mankind so that implies that we should also have patience towards all mankind and especially those close to us in our own life like our spouse and children and those people we interact with on a daily basis but not to exclude all others.

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9) The Lord exerts all the patience He can toward us so that we may have as much time possible to repent and turn to Him.

Is Kind

“The pure love of Christ” is kind.

The one of the online dictionaries suggest that “Kind” means: Affectionate, loving. Of a sympathetic or helpful nature. Of a forbearing nature. Gentle. Arising from or characterized by sympathy or forbearance (a kind act). To give pleasure or relief.

A good or benevolent nature or disposition. A loving person. Having, showing or proceeding from benevolence. Considerate, helpful, humane, mild, gentle, loving or affectionate.

Forbearance means “To be tolerant or patient in the face of provocation.” An abstaining from the enforcement of a right. “A creditor’s giving of indulgence after the day originally fixed for payment.” This descriptions of the word “Kind” certainly sound Christ-like. This kind of kindess is what we should be striving for, even praying for.

Envieth Not

“The pure love of Christ” envieth not.

Envy means a painful or resentful awareness of something enjoyed by someone else as well as a desire to possess the same thing the other person has. So if Charity Envieth not then we should not be resentful toward others but rather we should be happy for the things others possess and share their joy. We cannot envy someone if we have the pure love of Christ in our hearts. We need to have joy in others successes and achievements. If everyone “envieth not” think of the drop in the crime rates.

Vaunteth Not Itself

“The pure love of Christ” vaunteth not itself.

“Vaunt” means to brag or to make a vain display of one self? We should not draw undue attention to ourselves. When we brag about ourselves we are setting ourselves up to appear to be better than others. God loves us all the same. He doesn’t love whatever sin or misdeed we may be involved in but He loves us all the same. We should not seek to make ourselves appear to be better than each other.

Is Not Puffed Up

“The pure love of Christ” is not puffed up.

Puffed up means to speak or act in a scornful, conceited, or exaggerated manner. We should just be ourselves or we should be the person we are trying to be as we seek for Charity in our lives. We need to be humble (teachable) and sincere. If we are locked into Charity as a way of life then we would have no insecurities and have no need to be conceited.

Doth Not Behave Itself Unseemly

“The pure love of Christ” doth not behave itself unseemly.

Unseemly means not according with established standards of good form or taste. In other words we should be vulgar or crude.

Seeketh Not Her Own

“The pure love of Christ” seeketh not her own.
To “seek not her own” means being selfish. Anyone who has Charity or seeking Charity is not selfish. We should repent for any selfish behavior and strive to not be selfish.

Is Not Easily Provoked

“The pure love of Christ” is not easily provoked.

Is not easily made mad or one who is slow to anger. Not resentful. If we considered the life of Christ he was very slow to wrath. The only time he showed wrath was when the money changers we disrespecting the Temple. Even when Christ was be unjustly tried for made up crimes he was not provoked. When He hung from the cross, rather than be mad he ask Heavenly Father to forgive the soldiers who were torturing Him.

Thinketh No Evil

“The pure love of Christ” thinketh no evil.

Evil is the opposite of righteousness. Charity does not think of things contrary to righteousness. Ask yourself what is evil and think the opposite. Think of virtuous thoughts. Ask yourself what would Jesus think about and think likewise.

Rejoiceth Not In Iniquity But Rejoiceth In The Truth

“The pure love of Christ” rejoiceth not in iniquity but rejoiceth in the truth.

Iniquity is both sin and behavior directly in opposition to righteousness. Charity finds happiness in the truth or rejoices in the truth. Thinketh no evil and Rejoiceth Not in iniquity go hand in hand or are companion virtues. Don’t think evil thoughts and do not rejoice in inquity. Do we watch movies or read books where we find ourselves rooting for the bad guy? Is that Charity?

Beareth All Things

“The pure love of Christ” beareth all things.

What does it mean to “Bear”? Looking up the word “bear” on several online dictionaries came to the following conclusions:

To make one’s way steadily especially against resistance. Continuing firm or resolute through trials and difficulties.

To put up with something trying or painful.

The terms Suffereth (Suffer) and Beareth (Bear) are synonyms in parts of their meanings but they also have some differences in their definitions. From what I can ascertain The phrase “Suffereth Long” is more to do with patience. The phrase “Beareth All Things” deals mainly with faithfully overcoming trials and adversity.

Believeth All Things

“The pure love of Christ” believeth all things

This phrase “believeth all things” has to do with faith. Charity, the pure love of Christ wouldn’t teach to believe all things regardless. For instance. Do we believe the God created the earth or do we believe in junk science that the earth was created from a big bang?

Do we believe God created Man in His own image or than man evolved from apes? We don’t believe all things spiritual and worldly but rather “believeth all things” is to have firm religious faith. To accept the gospel as true, genuine or real. Furthermore it means to have assurance or faith in righteousness. Trust in God. To have a firm conviction as to the goodness, efficacy, or ability of something. If that thing doesn’t have goodness of efficacy then it is evil and not to be trifled with.

Other definitions of “Believeth all things”: To have confidence in the truth,

Mark 9:23 Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.

John 5:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

2 Corinthians 6:15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?

Hopeth All Things

“The pure love of Christ” hopeth all things.

To look forward to with desire and reasonable confidence. For instance, to look to Christ for ones salvation. To place trust in or rely in. We need to trust in Christ that He will do what He says he will do. To look to the Gospel of Jesus Christ with confidence.

Endureth All Things

“The pure love of Christ” endureth all things. Here is what some online dictionaries defined Endure as.

To undergo a hardship without giving in. To suffer or endure a great pain. To remain firm under suffering or misfortune without yielding. To bear without resistance or with patience.

To support adverse force or influence of any kind; suffer without yielding; suffer patiently. The life of Christ is a perfect example of enduring all things.

1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.

Text: Eph. 1:13-4; Acts  18:24 – 19:6

       Yesterday, my beautiful bride and I decked our home with all the fancies of the Christmas holiday!  Among the decorations is a nativity set that I purchased for Elizabeth while I was in Israel several years ago.  The wooden scene showcases all the “staple characters” of the Christmas story: Joseph and Mary, the baby Jesus, three wise men, a shepherd, some livestock and an angel carved into the stable.  Such is “the cast” that we sing about in our Christmas carols and relive in our Christmas plays.

       Yet, as you look deeper at the panorama of this beautiful Christmas scene, there are a number of characters in the background that appear to have fallen through the celebration cracks.  Perhaps this Christmas, we might allow the spotlight of God’s Word to illuminate a few of these unsung heroes.

       The greatest of these background characters is really not a background character at all.  As I read the Holy Christmas Story, four lead roles appear in my mind: Jesus, the Gift of Christmas; God the Father, the Giver; Believers, the recipients; and the Holy Spirit; the Mailman who brought this gift into the world. (Matt. 1:20; Luke 1:35)

       As Christians, what is this “Joy To The World” that we celebrate during the Christmas season?  Our joy is Jesus…that He, being human through Mary’s seed, could “walk in our shoes” and identify with our weakness.  Yet, through the perfect seed of God the Holy Spirit, Jesus was able to pay the price tag that sin demanded for our souls…the shedding of perfect and innocent blood.  It was through the Holy Spirit that Jesus was born without the legally-inherited sin of the human father, and therefore, He alone was able to purchase our freedom from sin.  Not only was He able, He was also willing!  (John 10:17-8)

       We celebrate Christmas because the “God-Man” was born into our world to be our Savior, and this was only made possible through the working of the Holy Spirit.  Some 2,000 years ago, the unsung Mailman delivered Jesus into the world through Mary!

       Paul understood the need of the Holy Spirit, and he wasn’t about to let this need go unaddressed in his letter to the Ephesians.  In fact, he mentions the Holy Spirit in every chapter of his epistle.[i]  This was such a “hot topic” for Paul that the ground-breaking of his 3-year ministry to the Ephesians would be to make sure they received the Holy Spirit.  When he arrived in Ephesus in Acts 19, the first question he asked the Ephesians was in regards to the Holy Spirit: “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” (19:2)

       What is it about the Holy Spirit that was so fundamentally vital to Paul’s ministry?  Simply put: the greatest need in the world is for people to see Jesus, and it is only through the Holy Spirit that this can truly happen.  The Holy Spirit was sent to take the things of Jesus and make them real to us. (1 Cor. 2:9-16)  When Jesus ascended into Heaven, He sent His Spirit to come and dwell within us.  If you believe on the Name of Jesus Christ, then you have the promise that the Spirit of Jesus literally LIVES INSIDE YOU!  (1 Cor. 3:16)

       He lives to teach us the things of Jesus (John 14:26); to give us the help & comfort of Jesus (John 16:7); to convict us of the sin that separates us from Jesus (John 16:8); to guide us in the truth of Jesus (John 16:13-4); to pray for us in our weakness (Rom. 8:26-7); to fill us with the joy, peace, hope and power of Jesus (Rom. 15:13); and, as a spirit, He has the power to dwell in every believer (Psalm 139:7-8) fulfilling the promise of Jesus that He will be “with you always…” A promise that Jesus, in the flesh, could not have fulfilled.  (John 16:7)

       This Christmas season is a perfect time to examine your life.  Have you asked Jesus Christ to be your Savior and Lord?  Have you been experiencing the transforming power of the Holy Spirit in your life, making you look more like Jesus?  God’s greatest gift at Christmas so many years ago was the gift of His Only Begotten Son, through the Holy Spirit.  Now Jesus’ greatest gift to us is the gift of His Holy Spirit to live inside of us so that we don’t have to go through life alone.  And Jesus continues to hold this gift out for you… It’s yours for the taking today.  But tomorrow may be too late.  “Now is the day of salvation!” (2 Cor. 6:2)  This is one gift that shouldn’t wait for Christmas!  Receive it today.

Based on a talk given by Elder Richard G. Scott at the October, 2009 General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Click on Mormonmom to see my other Teachings for our Times (TFOT) lessons.

Opening Hymn: Guide Us O Thou Great Jehovah

Elder Richard G. Scott’s talk on Acquiring Spiritual Guidance, was inspiring, uplifting and filled with instructions that each of us can apply in our daily lives.  Earlier this year, the General Relief Society Presidency directed each of us to seek our own personal revelation as we strengthen our ward and stake Relief Societies, I felt this was timely information coming now from Elder Scott.

One of the key doctrines that drew me into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is that of personal inspiration/revelation.  We have the Spirit as our guide for ANY concern we have in this life.  That is a great comfort, but, like many of the blessings given to us from our Heavenly Father, it must be honed, practiced, and used regularly.

Joseph Smith said, “Follow the influence of that Spirit, and it will lead you into all truth, until by and by, it will BECOME in you a principle of revelation.”  In other words, second nature to you.  Elder Scott testifies that this is the true source of peace and happiness.

Learning how to be led by the Spirit takes a strengthening of faith in our Father and in Jesus Christ.  It is not a casual expectation, but a purposeful period of growth. Let me take a minute to talk about “The Spirit”. As far as I’ve been able to learn there are three ways to understand the term ‘The Spirit”:

1. The Light of Christ
Everyone is given the light of Christ as a Child of God.

2. The Holy Ghost
Many religions reference the Holy Ghost.

3. The Gift of the Holy Ghost
Reserved for those who receive the ordinance of baptism by those having authority to confer the gift. This gift isn’t enjoyed in its fullness until fire and the Holy Ghost baptize the recipient.

Back to Elder Scott’s talk. After noting that in times past if one sought guidance they would turn to mentors or advisors, the information overload that is a characteristic of our time, means turning to others for advice can be a very risky proposition. As a digital marketing executive, I often use the analogy ‘it’s like drinking from a firehose’ to describe this phenomenon. Think about it – so much information, but none of it is filtered or curated. Who do we trust?

Rather than bemoaning the plight of the times we live in, we should welcome the excuse to turn our eyes upward for inspiration. Elder Scott seems to be saying that humans as trust agents will always be inadequate and that we will be better served by seeking to commune with the Lord directly through appealing to the Holy Ghost.

Think about this for a minute – our Father has created a condition where we, of necessity, are more dependent upon the Spirit to guide us through the vicissitudes of life. Therefore, we are led to seek personal inspiration in life’s important decisions.I loved this thought! Personally, it has been a year of uphill trials. I do not know where I would be without specific guidance that I have received through the relationship I have personally developed with my Heavenly Father that allows me the blessing of personal answers and spiritual guidance.

Discussion:

• What can you do to enhance your capacity to be led to correct decisions in your life?
• What are the principles upon which spiritual communication depends?
• What are the potential barriers to such communication that you need to avoid?

Elder Scott admits that learning to consistently recognize the promptings of the Holy Spirit, distinguish them from one’s own impulses and desires, and act courageously to fulfill them are accomplishments that we would be lucky to achieve in a lifetime. However, Elder Scott clearly believes that developing these skills is necessary. And perhaps most importantly, in these times of information overload, his recommendation  sounds achievable through the examples he offers us.

He notes the Prophet Joseph Smith’s instruction to John Taylor to begin each day with prayer – being grateful for another day our Father has granted us.

President John Taylor wrote: “Joseph Smith, upwards of forty years ago, said to me: ‘Brother Taylor, you have received the Holy Ghost. Now follow the influence of that Spirit, and it will lead you into all truth, until by and by, it will become in you a principle of revelation.’ Then he told me never to arise in the morning without bowing before the Lord, and dedicating myself to him during that day.”

Which is, in these hectic latter days, counsel that many of us can overlook in the daily haste to satisfy the necessities of temporal life. For example, if I’m woken up by my 3 y.o. doing the potty dance, after I escort her to do her necessary business, she’s hungry, so I start breakfast. Then, like mothers (and fathers) around the world every morning, we are joined by 2 more sleepy towheaded children and somewhere in the blur of showering, breakfast being eaten, teeth being brushed, hair being combed, clothes being put on, lunches being prepared, and busses arriving – it is all to easy to forget that morning prayer of thanksgiving. What I’ve learned to do is have the scriptures in the kitchen, so that a verse or two can be read during the “Waltz of Chaos” in the morning to ensure we all have the right start to the day.

Elder Scott uses two lessons as examples to illustrate his message. In the first, a humble Priesthood leader taught a lesson from his heart. The content of the lesson was less memorable than the impression the leader gave that promote spiritual guidance:  humility, intense desire to communicate truths, pure love of the Savior, as well as those who are taught, sincerity, pure intent, love, and spiritual strength. The spirit was present and powerful as this man struggled to express himself within the church.

In the second example, Elder Scott attended a Sunday School class where the teacher was using the fruits of his education and study to share insights into the lesson, less from a desire to inspire his pupils and more from what Elder Scott interpreted as pride — of a desire to impress his fellow congregants with his knowledge.

By keeping his lesson simple and focusing on his testimony of his ministry, the priesthood leader impressed Elder Scott with his sincerity and emotional depth. By contrast, the intellectual approach of the Sunday School teacher left Elder Scott irritated and bored. I was intrigued by the difference here between the emotional and the intellectual – this contrast exists in our brains (right-vs-left), between our ‘brains’ and our ‘souls’ between men and women. It plays out every week at church, every month of our life.

There isn’t any particular resolution to it – it’s just the way we are. As a teacher, I am always striving to embrace the humbleness of the Priesthood Leader’s approach. I try to be both emotionally fulfilling and intellectually enlightening in my approach. But I’m also cognizant of the fact that many of you have forgotten more about the gospel, church doctrine, lessons of our Presidents, General Conference talks and the like than I will EVER KNOW, even if I focused my studies on these topics for the rest of my life. So I try to infuse my lessons with whatever material I can bring from my experience and knowledgebase to further enlighten each of you (and me) and bring relevance to my ability to teach for our times.

And yet, the more important message here from Elder Scott seems to be that either course can invite the Spirit.

In the case of both lessons, Elder Scott felt the promptings of the Spirit. He stopped paying attention to his immediate surroundings and started listening to and interacting with the voice of God. Whether interested or biding his time, Elder Scott felt the Spirit in both examples and chose to listen to it instead – to be taught by the Holy Ghost – instead of from the content of the lesson being provided to him.

The manner in which Elder Scott recorded his personal inspiration is interesting, perhaps mostly because it follows the pattern that Joseph Smith seemed to follow with his revelations. Once written, the revelation was examined to see if it conformed to the mind and will of God and changes could be made. It speaks to the imperfection of human intermediaries and the humility needed to keep at revelation until one is certain they have gotten it right.

And, much like Joseph Smith, Elder Scott teaches that:

A person may profit by noticing the first intimation of the spirit of revelation; for instance, when you feel pure intelligence flowing into you, it may give you sudden strokes of ideas, so that by noticing it, you may find it fulfilled the same day or soon; (i.e.) those things that were presented unto your minds by the Spirit of God, will come to pass; and thus by learning the Spirit of God and understanding it, you may grow into the principle of revelation, until you become perfect in Christ Jesus [TPJS, p. 151]

Paying attention to the first promptings is valuable not for the promptings, but because it indicates an openness to the process of revelation. Just as it is important for the teacher to be prepared spiritually to guide, the students to be open spiritually in order to receive guidance.  He gives us ten things we should do as listeners:

1. Attend class prepared, with a readiness to learn
2. Be aware of impressions that may come
3. Write them down as soon as possible
4. Ponder what you have written
5. Study the meaning
6. Pray to the Lord, and review what was taught, and what was learned
7. Wait for a feeling of peace and confirmation
8. Thank Heavenly Father for the guidance
9. Ask: “Is there more to learn?” You probably will have additional impressions, but it takes courage to ask.
10. Repeat the process from beginning to end as many times as is necessary.  Elder Scott says, “Had I not responded to the first impressions and recorded them, I would not have received the last, most precious guidance.”

Here is an important warning.  “Satan is extremely good at blocking spiritual communication.” We have all been sidetracked by the destroyer.  “The Lord will not force you to learn.  You must exercise your agency to authorize the Spirit to teach you.”

As church members we’re taught that acquiring the gift of the Holy Ghost is the most important thing we can do. Everything else is subservient.

Elder Scott encourages us to practice, have patience, and be aware.  Inspiration comes to us in different ways.  By following the above ten steps, realize the unique way Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit communicate with you.

Elder Scott then launches into a critique of pornography, highlighting in particular the potentially corrosive effects of pornography on family relations. Perhaps more importantly, he discuss its effect on the soul. He notes that the adversary is at pains to induce “individuals, through temptation, to violate the laws upon which spiritual communication is founded.”

The notion is that Satan achieves his goal if “he is able to convince them that they are not able to receive such guidance from the Lord.” The presence or absence of revelation in the life of the individual is presented, in this talk, as the surest means of judging one’s current standing with the Lord.

Returning to those two lessons, the point appears to be that whether or not you are someone who prefers the intellectual or the emotional, putting yourself in the right place at the right time indicates a willingness to receive revelation. The ongoing debate regarding the superiority of one or the other approach to faith, to scripture or to life is shown to be entirely beside the point. Whether you are interested or bored by the lessons offered, your involvement in the process seems to be considered sufficient sacrifice for God to honor it with those first intimations of revelation, if such is appropriate.

What you do with that appears to be far more important than learning the signs of the times or historical facts. Not that either of those is bad, but they seem to be goals secondary to our involvement in the church.

Finally, it is worth noting that, for those ensnared in pornography or other damaging, compulsive behaviors, Elder Scott’s first advice is to re-establish communication with God. I believe this concept of exercising our agency to authorize the Spirit to take part in our lives is a huge part of prayer. God won’t interfere in our lives without our consent, he is that mindful of our agency. We must pray and ask for his influence and hand in our life.

Elder Scott counsels us: The inspiring influence of the Holy Spirit can be overcome or masked by strong emotions, such as anger, hate, passion, fear, or pride. When such influences are present, it is like trying to savor the delicate flavor of a grape while eating a jalapeño pepper. Both flavors are present, but one completely overpowers the other. In like manner, strong emotions overcome the delicate promptings of the Holy Spirit.

Remember the Jalapeno & grape analogy — be more aware of what you surround yourself with and how any negative emotions can block out the positive and good all around you.

Without the Holy Ghost we cannot receive the necessary experiences to have a relationship with Christ. We can study the scriptures, listen to the words of the living prophets, and thereby intellectually learn of Christ, but we won’t be able to experience Christ until we qualify for the Holy Ghost.  The challenge we have as followers of Christ is to diligently seek for the Holy Ghost. It’s not easy to acquire and maintain this gift, but the Lord is merciful to those who work at it.

Intellectual conversion to Christ is fragile, Spiritual conversion to Christ will ground and root us. And offer us the foundation for personal revelation, which is, the most important lesson of all.

Discussion

(Time permitting — we ran out of time due to the discussion questions raised earlier in the lesson. If we had the time, I would have divided the class into thirds, selected a spokesperson for each group and handed them a quote and question for them to discuss and present back to the Relief Society):

1. However, it is my judgment that there are many members of this Church who have been baptized for the remission of their sins, who have had hands laid upon their heads for the gift of the Holy Ghost, who have never received that gift, that is, the manifestations of it. Why? Because they have never put themselves in order to receive these manifestations. They have never humbled themselves. They have never taken the steps that would prepare them for the companionship of the Holy Ghost. Therefore they go through life without that knowledge, and they have not the understanding. Joseph Fielding Smith, Conference Report, October 1958, p.21 – p.22

Question: “How do we draw a balance between spiritual self-reliance and relying on the Spirit?”

2. D&C Section 84: 45-46 says: For the word of the Lord is truth, and whatsoever is truth is light, and whatsoever is light is Spir, even the Spirit of Jesus Christ.
And the Spirit giveth light to every man that cometh into the world; and the Spirit enlighteneth every man through the world, that hearkeneth to the voice of the Spirit.

Questions: What the difference is between being “guided by the Holy Ghost” (for those who have been told to “receive the Holy Ghost” by the laying on of hands) and being “guided by the Light of Christ”?

How can one discern whether an answer has come through the Light of Christ or the Holy Ghost?  What difference does it make?

3. “I tell you these things because of your prayers; wherefore, treasure up wisdom in your bosoms, lest the wickedness of men reveal these things unto you by their wickedness, in a manner which shall speak in your ears with a voice louder than that which shall shake the earth; but if ye are prepared ye shall not fear. ” D&C 38:30

Questions: What does it mean to be self-reliant in spiritual things?

Why is it important to be spiritually self-reliant?

In closing, God very much wants to help us but we must show our sincerity by being faithful to the knowledge he gives us. His plan is amazing. It helps us navigate the temporal reality but it also builds our soul for eternity. I never want to lose my sense of awe over the workings of God in my life and in the world at large.

I leave this lesson with you in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

My notes (in between tweets) from the 179th Semi-Annual General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Saturday Morning Session

President Henry B. Eyring conducted the Saturday morning session, with President Thomas S. Monson providing general commentary followed by talks from Elder Scott, Sister Matsumori, Elder Clayton, Brother Osguthorpe, Elder Bednar, and President Uchtdorf.  Here are the key points made by each speaker (with direct quotes noted as such):

President Thomas S. Monson:

• 83% of members live within 200 miles of a temple
• There are 130 operating temples
• 16 have been announced or are under construction
• 5 new temples announced
  
  • Brigham City, Utah
  • Concepción, Chile
  • Fortaleza, Brazil
  • Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
  • Sapporo, Japan

Mormon Tabernacle Choir sang “Choose the Right”

Elder Richard G. Scott of the Twelve:

• Inspiration to know what to do | being guided by the spirit
• Power, to be able to do it
• Sometimes truth is revealed when you are not actively seeking it
• Pornography is one of the most damning influences on earth, and is overpoweringly addictive
• Commit to overcome it now
• If you pray with all your heart, you can learn to be consistent with the guidance of the Holy Spirit
• Parable: a humble priesthood leader in Mexico teaching a lesson inspired Elder Scott, while a well-educated Sunday School teacher in the States, using obscure examples, did not edify or inspire because it came from a desire to impress (pride).

Sister Vicki F. Matsumori, Second Counselor in the Primary General Presidency:

• Being touched by the Spirit is like being wrapped in a blanket.
• Help others understand
• The Spirit will not dwell in unholy temples
• We should find ways to feel the Spirit every day and weekly at Church
• “Be still and know that I am God”

Elder L. Whitney Clayton of the Presidency of the Seventy:

• Generally burdens come from 3 sources
  1. Natural product of the conditions of the world
  2. Imposed on us by the misconduct of others
  3. Imposed on us by our own mistakes and shortcomings
• Burdens provide opportunities to practice virtues — blessings in disguise
• “People struggle everyday under burdens that tax their souls.”

The choir sang “We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet”

Russell T. Osguthorpe, General President of the Sunday School:

• “We are all teaching future leaders of the Church.”
• A good teacher can help save lives
• Teaching involves sharing the key doctrine, an invitation to action, and then the promised blessings
• “Learning and teaching are not optional activities in the Kingdom of God.”
• Teachers can inspire their students to change, to do better, to set sights higher

Elder David A. Bednar of the Twelve:

• “More diligent and concerned at home”
• Express love and show it. When was the last time you told your spouse, your child, your parents you love them?
• Testimonies that express love might be appropriate, but the public statement shouldn’t be the only time they hear it
• Feeling the constancy of love is a rich blessing
• Bear testimony and live it. When was the last time you bore your testimony to your spouse, your children, or your parents
• We need to bear it, we need to mean it, and most importantly, we need to live it
• Be consistent. Results don’t come each time
• The consistency of our intent and work is the great lesson
• A single paint brush stroke is not critical, but all of the strokes together create a beautiful painting

The choir sang “My Heavenly Father Loves Me”

The choir sang “Oh, May My Soul Commune with Thee”

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, on showing love as a disciple of Christ and the unconditional love of God for us:

• Of all the things we are known for, are there things we should seek to be known for?
• How do we become true disciples of Jesus Christ? Love God. If ye love me, keep my commandments.  Love should be the center of our life in:
  1. family
  2. callings
  3. livelihood
• “Love should be our walk and our talk.”
• Keep trying. Try to believe, learn of God, study the scriptures, follow the prophets, listen to the Father, do the things He asks of us
  • How can we hear the Father’s voice?
  • Why is love the great commandment?

The choir sang “Come, Come, Ye Saints”

Saturday Afternoon Session

President Eyring conducted the Saturday afternoon session, featuring talks by Elder Oaks, Elder Hales, Elder Zeballos, Elder Callister, Elder Watson, Elder Anderson, and President Packer. Direct quotations (based on my notes) are given in quotes; phrases without quotes are my summary of the remarks given.

The choir sang “Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise”.

The choir sang “Know This, That Every Soul Is Free”

Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Twelve, on God’s love and law:

• God’s love and God’s commandments
• The love of God does not supersede his commandments.  His commandments do not diminish the love of God
• Despite mortal confusion over the relationship between love and law, love does not supercede or render inapplicable law or God’s commandments. Mercy cannot rob justice.
• Counsels a balanced response — every parent knows you can love a child and be angry and disappointed
• The love of God is so universal, even those who are rebellious benefit
• Where do parents draw the line with children that are not following the commandments? Don’t go to extremes.
• Real love does not support self-destructive behavior

Elder Robert D. Hales of the Twelve, against secularism and atheism:

• We live in a time where secularism is deepening.  “Atheism … is spreading across the world.”
• We declare We believe in God the Eternal Father, and in his son Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost
• Why is belief in God so important?“Without God, … our mortal experiences would have no purpose.”
• Cultivate a diligent desire to know God lives. He does.

Elder Jorge F. Zeballos of the Seventy, on the Atonement:

• The command to become perfect may seem impossible, but it encourages us to achieve the best of ourselves
• “God will not require more than the best that we can give.”
• Let us with enthusiasm do all that is within our reach
• It is possible to achieve the impossible. We can receive eternal life. We can be happy now.

The choir sang “Come, Ye Children of the Lord”

Elder Tad R. Callister of the Seventy, on the Restoration:

• Joseph was the Lord’s anointed servant. He restored knowledge of four fundamental truths not recognized by contemporary Christianity:
  1. God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ are two separate, distinct beings
  2. The Father and Son have glorified bodies of flesh and bones
  3. God still speaks to man today; the heavens are not closed
     Does God love us as much today as before?
     Does God have the same power today as then?
     Do we need him as much today as then?
  4. The full and complete Church of Jesus Christ was not on the earth
• Were there not angels before? Mary, Joseph, Peter, James, John, Cornelius, Paul, Stephen all saw angels
• Some people get sidetracked and lose their faith over minor issues: “There will always be some intellectual crisis looming on the horizon.” At some point, one must trust in God.

Elder Kent D. Watson of the Seventy, on temperance:

• Temperance = avoiding anger and pride.
• Peace of mind and security and happiness does not come from buying things we can’t afford. It comes through self-control and faith in Jesus Christ.
• Happiness comes from being diligent in keeping covenants
• Like tempered glass or tempered steel, a tempered soul is one that has gained increased spiritual strength.

Elder Neil L. Anderson of the Twelve, on repentance:

• Testifies of the Savior’s overpowering love for a repentant soul.  Spiritual arms of mercy, safety, love
• We rejoice in repenting and the joy of forgiveness
• Apart from the rare unforgiveable sin against the Holy Ghost, “there is no sin that cannot be forgiven.
• “Will ye not now return unto me… that I may heal you?”
• Repentance is more of a journey than an event
• “You can’t feel what I have felt”  One who does understand. He does. He has felt your pain.
• I promise you, relief will come
• Do not procrastinate the day of your repentance

President Boyd K. Packer of the Twelve, on hearing the guidance of the Spirit:

• “We are given our agency; we must use it wisely.”
• We must use our agency wisely
• Pure intelligence can be spoken into the mind  — the Spirit can protect you
• Keep your mind clean and free from the clutter of the world
• “One of the adversary’s sharpest tools is convincing us that we are no longer worthy to pray.” No matter who you are and what you may have done, you can always pray
• Learn to pray. Pray often. Pray in your mind, in your heart. Pray on your knees.
• Prayer is your personal key to heaven and the lock is on your side of the veil.
• “Thy will be done”

The choir sang “I Know That My Redeemer Lives”.

I was having a conversation with someone a few months ago, and i casually mentioned that i no longer listened to Prosperity gospel. This went into a long debate that went on for hours. He was like Wyatt Earp, firing off scripture after scripture to support his case of God promising us wealth and riches. One of them was “the cattle on a thousand hills are his” does that sound like a poor God?

Naturally , the logic follows “How can a rich God , that owns the whole world not want his children to be rich”. Another quote brought up was from apostle Paul,

“my God shall supply all your needs ,according to his riches in glory”.Philippians 4:19
The logic, Paul was rich , thus the reason he prayed “YOUR needs” for the people , and not his own needs. Needless to say as i went back to read that verse, from the beginning to the end, that assumption of riches is totally out of context. Paul was thanking them, for the previous times they had sacrificially financially catered for him,in his last visit, and at that point in time we did not need it, but placed a blessing on them, for their willingness and generosity. Please Read the entire passage for yourself and see. 1 Corinthians 9 is also a good read concerning Paul’s income status.

However , the cattle on a thousand hills stuck with me. Taken from Psalm 50:10 , it is extremely popular with the prosperity gospel movement and i decided to take a look at it for what it fully meant, and the context in which it was said.

Does God own the cattle on the hills and the whole world. YES, Is out God rich, of course he is, but i doubt if riches to God, is sitting in his money room, counting gold and diamonds gleefully, as his Angel Gabriel reads his balance sheet out loud for the umpteenth time. This verse is quoted in isolation to justify and promote the desire to be rich, wealthy and seize the promises that a rich God has provided.

So let’s see what it says

v 10 For all the animals of the forest are mine and i own the cattle on a thousand hills
v11 Every bird of the mountain and all the animals of the field belong to me
v12 If i were hungry i would not mention it to you, for all the world is mine and everything in it
v13 I do not need the bulls you sacrifice, i do not need the blood of goats

Here’s a key verse

v14 What i want instead is your true thanks to God; I want you to fulfil your vows to to the most high.
v15 Trust me in your times of trouble and i will rescue you and you will give me glory

ZOOMING out of the isolation of verse 10 , an often misinterpreted passage , reading the whole passage , we would realise that God is not saying , “the cattle on a thousand hills are mine , so you get them in the will my child, take it , it’s yours”.

This passage is a chastisement to those that carry out religious ceremony, those playing church so to speak. They cross all the T’s and dot all the i’s , but it’ s all routine. Done out of some sort of obligation rather than love and desire. He was speaking them that did acts and went , “Hey, check out, look at my God badge”, but lived lives of hypocrisy,lives contrasting to the God they claimed. He was speaking to

HYPOCRITES; v16-17 But God says to the wicked “Recite my laws no longer and don’t pretend that you obey me.For you refuse my discipline and treat my laws like trash.
ACCOMPLICES TO THE WICKED; v 18 When you see a thief you help him, and you spend your time with adulterers
LIARS ; v19 Your mouth is full of wickedness and your tongues are full of lies
SLANDERERS :v 20 You sit around and slander a brother, your own mothers son

Verses 21 -22 Go on to explain God’s verdict towards all this , a sound WARNING

When you did all this ,I remained silent, and you thought i didn’t care. But now i will rebuke you, listing all my charges against you. Repent all you ignore me, or i will tear you apart and no one will help you.

This passage is FAR from the endorsement or promise of financial prosperity as it is often used in isolation. It is a warning to those paying God lip service.

Lest i do what they do, the passage ends on a hopeful note

v23 But giving thanks is a sacrifice that truly honours me.If you keep to my path i will reveal to you the salvation of God.

Read the entire Psalm 50, to see the introduction God is given ,lest we read in isolation.

SELAH

CATTLE ON THE HILLS

Meditations in Romans : 3 :  The Gospel of Jesus

Rom  1:1-4 Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God–the gospel he promised beforehand through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures regarding his Son, who as to his human nature was a descendant of David, and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.

We finished in the previous meditation thinking about Paul’s awareness of being within God’s master-plan, a plan that He had hinted at through the Old Testament prophets.  Everything in those Old Testament prophecies had been looking to the future to the coming to earth of God’s anointed one.  Luke recorded of Jesus on the road to Emmaus, “beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.” (Lk 24:27).  What He had not made clear was that this coming one would actually be God’s own Son, the second expression of the one godhead in heaven, God Himself coming in human disguise if you like!

It is that humanity that Paul first refers to as he identifies the Son, the object of the Good News, when he says, “who as to his human nature was a descendant of David,” hence the family trees in Matthew and Luke.  Now of course here we struggle with a mystery, how could God be God and also man? Even more for those who know the teaching of the New Testament, how could Jesus be God AND man and not be sinless?  This is what the early church councils struggled with.

The Apostles Creed, one of the earliest creeds used by the early church, simply stated about Jesus, “his only Son, our Lord who was born of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary.”   The Nicene Creed (about AD325) only said of Jesus, “the only-begotten Son of God, begotten of the Father before all worlds.”   The Athanasian Creed, a later formulation went into great detail how Jesus was both God and man.   The Chalcedonian Creed (AD451) similarly went into more detail but more simplified.  One modern writer used the picture of the Meal Offering (Lev 2) to convey a truth: “The offering consisted of fine flour, representing the perfect humanity of our Lord—not one coarse grain—mingled with olive oil, which stands for the Holy Spirit and, hence, for deity. Each be­came inextricably blended, for ever one. The cake thus compounded was a unit—one cake, not two. It should be observed, however, that though the two natures are for ever one, they are for ever separate.”

Why was it important that Jesus was truly man?  So that he could fully enter into the human experience (without sinning) and convey the Father’s love to us through all he did, then finally to fully enter into human death by allowing his life to be offered as a sacrifice for our sins – human actually doing it and experiencing it, divine only being big enough to take the sins of every person who would come.  In time, a one-off act in history, in eternity, the Eternal One providing the foundation for justice – someone has paid the price, taken the punishment, for all wrong-doing!

Another aspect of this human element, is that he fulfilled in his human coming to earth, all the things that God had promised to Abraham, as well as David. To Abram had been the promise of the blessing of the whole earth through him (Gen 12:2,3). The promise was then revealed to be to one in the Davidic line who would bring God’s reign to the earth in a new way.  Hence Jesus, at the beginning of his ministry period, started by preaching, “The time has come, the kingdom of God is near.” (Mk 1:15)  The reign of God on earth was just coming through the Son.

But there were two sides to Jesus that Paul now declares: “and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.” The ultimate proof for us that Jesus was God’s one and only Son was the fact of the resurrection, of the Holy Spirit raising him from the dead.  The apostle Peter, on the day of Pentecost preached, “you, with the help of wicked men put him to death by nailing him to the cross. But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death.” (Acts 2:23,24).  The body that had been both human and divine had been crucified and put to death.  God raised the whole body so that the Son would be seen by his followers for who he was.

This is the ‘Good News’ that Paul had been called to convey: that God has come to the earth from heaven, in the form of His Son, and had lived on this earth for some thirty earth years, and had then started preaching and teaching about God, and justifying his teaching by power.  As Jesus replied to the disciples of John the Baptist, “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor.” (Mt 11:4-6) or as Peter had recorded in on the day of Pentecost, “Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know.” (Acts 2:22)  THAT was the start of the Good News, that God had been among them, but the culmination of it was that when he had been put to death, he rose from the day to vindicate his teaching, that he had come to take the punishment for the sins of the world and become our Saviour.  That was Paul’s calling, and that is ours.  Let’s ensure we fulfil it!

“Then comes the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father, When He puts an END to all rule and all authority and power…When all things are made subject to Him, the Son Himself will also be subject to Him who put all things under Him, that God may be all in all” 1 Corinthians 15:24,28.

Dunamis..Arche…Dynamel…Exousia. If those words are all Greek to you, good, because they are Greek words that mean either rule, authority, or power. There are a great many in the church that do not understand the meaning of these words. For example, Matthew 28:18- “ALL POWER IS GIVEN UNTO ME IN HEAVEN AND IN EARTH”. What is meant here by the word “power“? The Greek word for power in that test is exousia which is better translated “authority”. This means the ability or strength with which one is endued. It is the right to exercise power; The power of authority. It is also used by the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 10:8 for your edification and not for your destruction.

Apostolic authority is found under this meaning which is meant to tear down opponents and build up believers. This brings us to modern day apostles, but are apostles meant for this day and age? The household of God has been established and built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone (Ephesians 2:19-20). If this is true, and Scripture confirms it to be true, then why do we need apostles and prophets today? How can we build any higher than the original foundation? If Christ is the chief cornerstone, how can mere man go beyond that?

The primary criteria for an apostle was that he be present at the resurrection of Jesus Christ (Acts 1:21-22). That would definately eliminate most of the so-called apostles today. Mormons have as their leader what they believe to be a modern day apostle and prophet but it is a doctrine which they themselves have composed- “IN VAIN THEY WORSHIP ME, TEACHING AS DOCTRINES THE COMMANDMENTS OF MEN” MATTHEW 15:9. By adhering to man made commandments, that are accepted as doctrine, the Mormon doctrine is altogether in VAIN. “Before Me there was no God formed, NOR SHALL THERE BE AFTER ME…I am the Lord and there is no other, there is no God besides Me” Isaiah 43:10 and 44:5. Despite these clear teachings of Scripture, Mormons teach that God Himself had a Father and a Grandfather (The teachings of Joseph Smith, p.373). They teach that Jesus Christ is our elder brother who progressed to Godhood, having first been procreated as a spirit child by Heavenly Father and a Heavenly Mother and later conceived physically by Heavenly Father and the virgin Mary (Achieving a Celestial Marriage, p.129 and Mormon Doctrine pp. 546-547, 742).

The Mormons teach that there are many gods (Book of Abraham 4:3) and that human beings can become gods and goddesses in the Celestial Kingdom (Achieving a Celestial Marriage p. 130 and Mormon Doctrine p. 321, 1979 Edition). They teach that those that achieve godhood will have spirit children who will worship and pray to them (Gospel Principles p. 302, 1992 Edition). How does this relate to rule, power, and authority? Why would Mormons desire to be gods when they have no need of power and authority in the eternal state according to Scripture?

“Then comes the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father, WHEN HE PUTS AN END TO ALL RULE AND AUTHORITY AND POWER. He must reign till He has put all enemies under His feet. The last enemy that will be destroyed is death. When ALL THINGS ARE MADE SUBJECT TO HIM, then the Son Himself will also be subject to Him, who put all things under Him” 1 Corinthians 15:24-28. What part of that text do Mormons not understand or accept as Scripture? If even the Son has been made subject (Greek- to arrange under) to the Father, who would they be in authority over? But, Mormons teach that God the Father was once a man like us who progressed to become a God and now has a body of flesh and bones (Doctrine and Covenants 130:22). “I AM THE FIRST AND I AM THE LAST, BESIDES ME THERE IS NO OTHER GOD” ISAIAH 44:6.

What I have just presented is the primary reason why apostles are not for today. The “power” in their care can so easily be abused, especially when it is used by mortal man. Recall Diotrephes (3 John 9) who loved to have the preeminence, which means he loved to be first. He used his “power” by not receiving the brethren as he booted them out of the church. The Roman Catholic Church also has a human leader known as the Pope who is very much like the Mormon’s First President.

God is my authority as He supplies me with all His power for witnessing (Acts 1:8) through the Person of the Holy Spirit. Jesus Himself taught the 70 that they were not to rejoice in the power available to them, but they were to rejoice because their names were written in heaven (Luke 10:17-20). Human authority will always fail and that is why the Triune Godhead is the only authority you can fully trust.

“The Lord said, ‘I will hasten my work in its time’ (D&C 88:73). Surely anyone observing the recent growth of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is keenly aware of that hastening process. This should make us humbly grateful for the Lord’s omnipotent hand. Obstacles that seemed insurmountable have proven to be merely challenges for the faithful, for ‘with God nothing shall be impossible’ (Luke 1:37). “Inspiration has prepared the way from the beginning, when the Lord impressed the Prophet Joseph Smith to compose the twelfth article of faith: ‘We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.’ This inspired statement was surely written for our day. The Prophet knew that the gospel was ultimately to be taken to all nations regardless of their governmental differences. He knew that the ordinances of salvation and exaltation could bless the lives of people regardless of their politics. And he knew that people who were taught correct principles and who were loyal to their civil leaders and observing of their local laws would be most able to enjoy the blessings of the gospel.”

Elder Russell M. Nelson

Erik shares his passion to release teams of traveling apostolic workers to campuses across America. Their purpose is to make disciples and plant student churches. Student CPx: Concentrate – Las Vegas 2009

Bagi teman-teman yang sudah pernah berkunjung, tinggal, ataupun study di Victoria, nama Great Ocean Road pastilah sudah tidak asing lagi. Great Ocean Road sepanjang 243 km didedikasikan sebagai war memorial untuk prajurit yang gugur pada PD I. Jalan ini merupakan salah satu coastline drives di Australia dengan pemandangan yang indah. Sepanjang jalan, kita bisa menikmati pemandangan Bass Strait, Southern Ocean, dan Otway National Park. Apollo Bay serta 12 Apostles merupakan beberapa lokasi pariwisata yang digemari di kalangan warga Victoria.

Apollo Bay merupakan daerah permukiman sekaligus daerah pemancingan. Dengan pasirnya yang putih dan ombak yang cukup tinggi, Apollo Bay merupakan lokasi yang ideal berselancar maupun sekadar berjemur. Pertokoan dan akomodasi di Apollo Bay hanya berjarak 5 menit dengan berjalan kaki dari pinggir pantai. Sehingga kita bisa menikmati pemandangan pantai dari trotoar cafe maupun dari dalam restaurant dan hotel sembari menikmati secangkir kopi dan seafood.

Twelve Apostle adalah salah satu object pariwisata terkenal di Victoria. Terbuat dari pilar limestone yang dibentuk oleh alam, Twelve Apostle dapat dilihat di pesisir Port Campbell, sepanjang Great Ocean Road. Saat ini, Twelve Apostles tidak berjumlah duabelas lagi. Pada bulan September lalu, satu lagi dari apostle tersebut menyusul runtuh. Menyisakan tujuh apostles lagi yang masih berdiri. Ketujuh apostles yang tersisa diperkirakan tidak akan bertahan lama dengan laju weathering yang terjadi saat ini. Hal ini menjadikan Twelve Apostle sebagai salah satu object pariwisata yang akan musnah tidak lama lagi.

Background informasi seperti di atas lah yang memotivasi saya dan teman-teman untuk bergabung dengan rombongan Great Ocean Road Trip bersama La Trobe Uni Postgraduate Association pada hari Sabtu yang lalu. Kami semua berangkat meninggalkan La Trobe Uni menuju ke pemberhentian pertama yaitu Anglesea untuk melihat sebuah mercusuar tua. Untuk mencapai Anglesea dibutuhkan waktu sekitar 3 jam. Anglesea merupakan daerah yang cukup sepi dengan pantainya yang menyerupai ceruk, membuatnya sangat tenang dan aman sebagai tempat bermain anak-anak.

Koala at Kenneth River

Pemberhentian berikutnya adalah Kenneth River. Area di mana koala dapat ditemukan bergelantungan di pepohonan yang tumbuh di pinggir jalan. Di sini juga terdapat beberapa jenis burung yang umum ditemui di Victoria. Seperti kookaburra, etc. Dikarenakan Kenneth River hanya pemberhentian singkat, maka kami tidak mendapat kesempatan untuk menjelajahi seluruh area sekeliling sungai. Tapi kami masih sempat untuk melakukan photo session dengan koala yang tertidur lelap di pohon terdekat.

Pemberhentian ketiga sekaligus pemberhentian makan siang hari itu adalah di Apollo Bay. Berada di Apollo Bay bagaikan membeli paket combo di restaurant cepat saji. Di bagian Tenggara kami disuguhi pemandangan pantai yang tenang. Sedangkan di arah sebaliknya terdapat jajaran dataran tinggi yang hijau lengkap dengan kabutnya. Sungguh kombinasi yang menghanyutkan. Seusai menyantap makan siang sembari menikmati pemandangan di sekitar, kamipun melanjutkan berjalan-jalan di sekitar Apollo Bay. Kebetulan pada saat itu weather forecast area untuk area Great Ocean Road tidak begitu panas dan tidak terlalu berangin. Sehingga banyak wisatawan dan penduduk lokal yang berada di pantai serta di area perbelanjaan. Setelah perut kenyang dan mata puas, perjalanan dilanjutkan menuju pemberhentian terakhir. Yaitu 12 Apostles (sekarang tinggal 7).

Twelve Apostles

Untuk mencapai apostles tersebut dari Apollo Bay, masih dibutuhkan sekitar 2 jam perjalanan melewati temperate forest dalam area Otway National Park. Sayangnya kami tidak sempat singgah di air terjun yang ada di area Otway National Park karena waktu yang tidak memungkinkan. Akhirnya sampailah kami di pemberhentian terakhir sekaligus tujuan utama dari perjalanan wisata kali ini. Yaitu The Twelve Apostles. Dari kejauhan sudah terlihat pilar-pilar limestone yang menjulang di sepanjang pesisir pantai. Dan semakin dekat dengan area pemberhentian, pilar limestone tersebut semakin jelas. Pemerintah Australia membangun jalan bagi wisatawan untuk melihat 12 apostles dari jarak dekat. Tetapi karena proses weathering, maka sejak beberapa tahun yang lalu, disepanjang jalan ditambahkan pagar pembatas untuk menjaga wisatawan agar tidak terjatuh. Dan of course, begitu sampai di tempat tujuan, photo session segera dilakukan .

Nas montanhas de Fafe, Portugal

“That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. St Jn 17:21:

Let us be mindful on this earth that we live in, many times we can be swept away into this non-existential life style of reading the word of GOD and constructing this fairy idea of all being well, healing flowing as if it was air, people sitting down not saying a word as JESUS spoke, listen you can hear the wind whisk around. Apostle’s speaking into cosmic situations while demons fluttering in fear as these great men walk around changing the world by themselves. Some of this thinking is good as it spurs one’s lifestyle for CHRIST, but the fact of the matter is that JESUS CHRIST himself had to use the bathroom many times and HE did, the apostle were disciples learning just about half of what JESUS was speaking about cause much of it in public was in parables. They wrestled with each other when HE was gone on what was HIS message grace vs the law. Today we are not exempt from these same situation that work amongst us, a house church with loud sounds that does not set in harmony with the moment of worship because young children are excited as they see these meetings as another time of joyous celebration why? cause they are kids. Teenagers speaking about matters that perk up your reserved manners even causing parents to blush at times, but how will they learn if they do not participate, listening and learning what elders and young adults have learned because of time and experience. What is it when a meal is brought within our midst and it is delicious to a few but, you may notice another scooping parts of the meal to the corner of the plate. I would say do not be offended and to be real, if you want to experience christianity in a new testament fashion with apostolic traditions being our doctrine then get ready for a complex meshing of individuals who come from different cultures and backgrounds living out different expressions of HIS life through us.

Christianity is more than personal Hermeneutics, the verse above expounded shows that the world will believe in them because of the concerted efforts that was between the Father and the Son. Their unity will bring forth belief in the world when we are one with CHRIST. This is only achieved when we are fellow members in HIS household living and moving and have our being as a collective body creating a real church. This task is not easy but confronts our own prejudices, allow our concepts of how things operate to be weighed among the body, only then we can be a real church.

Love bro. Miguel V

Revelation

Every morning at Sabbath Mass Service the Divine Kingdom Ministries meet in memebrs houses to proclaim that ”God is the Lord and has revealed Himself unto us; blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord” (Ps 118:26-27). The first foundation of Moorish Orthodox doctrine is found in this biblical line: God has revealed Himself to us.

God has shown Himself to His creatures. He has not disclosed His very innermost being, for this innermost essence of God cannot be grasped by creatures. But God has truly shown what men can see and understand of His divine nature and will.

The fullness and perfection of God’s self-revelation is found in His Son Yahshua the Messiah, the fulfillment of the revelation of God in the Old Testament. Yahshua is the one truly “blessed … who comes in the name of the Lord.”

The first title given to Yahshua by the people is that of Rabbi, which literally means teacher, in the English New Testament the word Master also issued in relation to Yahshua in the sense of one who teaches, such as in schoolmaster or holder of a master’s degree. Yahshua’ followers are also called disciples, which literally means students or pupils.

Yahshua came to men first of all as the Teacher sent from God. He teaches the will of God and makes God known to men. He reveals fully–as fully as men can grasp–the mysteries of the Kingdom of God.

The coming of Yahshua as teacher is one aspect of his being Christ the Messiah. The word Christ in Greek is the word for the Hebrew Messiah which means the Anointed of God. For when the messiah would come, it was foretold, men would be “taught by God” (Is 54:13, Jn 6:45).

Yahshua comes to men as the divine teacher. He claimed on many occasions that his words were those of God. He spoke as “one having authority” not like the normal Jewish teachers (Mt 7:29). And he accused those who rejected his teachings as rejecting God Himself.

He who believes in me, believes not in me but in him who sent me. And he who sees me sees Him who sent me. I have come as light into the world … for I have not spoken on my own authority; the Father who sent me has himself given me commandment what to speak. What I say, therefore, I say as the Father has bidden me. (Jn 12:44-50)

Yahshua taught men not only by his words, but also by his actions; and indeed by his very own person. He referred to himself as the Truth (John 14:6) and as the Light (Jn 8:12). He showed himself not merely to be speaking God’s words, but to be himself the Living Word of God in human flesh, the SPIRIT who is eternal and uncreated, but who has become man as Yahshua of Nazareth in order to make God known to the world.

In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made.

In him was life and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

The true light that enlightens every man was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world knew him not.

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld his glory, glory as of the only-begotten Son from the Father.

And from his fullness have we all received, grace upon grace. For the law came through Moses; grace and truth came through Yahshua.

No one has ever seen God; the only-begotten Son who is in the bosom of the Father, he has made him known.

(See Jn 1:1-18. Gospel Reading in the Orthodox Church)

Yahshua, the divine Word of God in human flesh, comes to teach men by his presence, his words and his deeds. His disciples are sent into the world to proclaim Him and His Gospel, which means literally the “glad tidings” or the “good news” of the Kingdom of God. Those whom Yahshua sends are called the Apostles, which means literally “those who are sent.” The Apostles are directly inspired by God’s Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth (Jn 15:26), to “make disciples of all nations” teaching them what Christ has commanded (Mt 28:19).

The early Church, we are told, “devoted themselves to the apostles’ doctrine” (Acts 2:42). Doctrine as a word simply means teaching or instruction. The apostles’ doctrine is the doctrine of Yahshua and becomes the doctrine of the body and Church. It is received by the disciples of every age and generation as the very doctrine of God. It is proclaimed everywhere and always as the doctrine of eternal life through which all men and the whole world are enlightened and saved.

At this point it must be mentioned that although God’s self-revelation in history through the chosen people of Israel–the revelation which culminates in the coming of the Messiah–is of primary importance, it is also the doctrine of the Christian Church that all genuine strivings of men after the truth are fulfilled in Yahshua. Every genuine insight into the meaning of life finds its perfection in the Gospel. Thus, the Holy Fathers of the Church taught that the yearnings of pagan religions and the wisdom of many philosophers are also capable of serving to prepare men for the doctrines of Yahshua and are indeed valid and genuine ways to the one Truth of God.

In this way considered certain philosophers to have been enlightened by God to serve the cause of Truth and to lead men to fullness of life in God since the Word and Wisdom of God is revealed to all men and is found in all men who in the purity of their minds and hearts have been inspired by the Divine Light which enlightens every man who comes into this world. This Divine Light is the word of God, Yahshua of Nazareth in human flesh, the perfection and fullness of God’s self-revelation to the world.

It cannot be overstressed that divine revelation in the Old Testament, in the Church of the New Testament, in the lives of the Saints, in the wisdom of the Fathers, in the beauty of creation … and most fully and perfectly in Yahshua The Messiah, the Son of God, is the revelation of God Himself. God has spoken. God has acted. God has manifested Himself and continues to manifest Himself in the lives of His people.

If we want to hear God’s voice and see God’s actions of self-revelation in the world, we must purify our minds and hearts from everything that is wicked and false. We must strive to love the truth, to love one another, and to love everything in God’s good creation. According to the Orthodox faith, purification from falsehood and sin is the way to the knowledge of God. If we open ourselves to divine grace and purify ourselves from all evils, then it is certain that we will be able to interpret the scriptures properly and come into living communion with the true and living God who has revealed Himself and continues to reveal Himself to those who love Him.

Chapters 9-11 constitute the central section of Paul’s letter to the believers in Rome. The apostle now shifts his focus from the salvation of individuals to the salvation of nations – the Jews and the Gentiles. More specifically, he deals with the problem of Israel. In chapter 9, we are presented with their calling as God’s special people; in chapter 10 we read of their rejection; while chapter 11 speaks of their conversion.

The fact that Paul is now speaking about nations and not individuals is vital for us to remember as we walk our way through this passage. The reason why this is so important is that these chapters have been the primary breeding ground for the doctrine of predestination.  This doctrine teaches that some people are predestined by God to suffer eternal torment, and some to enjoy eternal salvation. They have no say in the matter, God decided it long ago. Not only that, those who hold this belief also teach that the majority of people will be lost. Now how such sincere saints arrive at such a conclusion is beyond me. They seem to believe that Romans 9:11-21 is proof of the doctrine of predestination. But it illustrates a sad reality – that by pulling passages out of context, you can end up creating a theology that even God can’t understand! Why would Jesus instruct His followers to preach the gospel to the world, if the fate of the world’s eternal salvation (and damnation) had already been decided? Why is the gospel invitation open to everyone and not just some – “whosoever believes” (John 3:16), Christ “gave Himself as a ransom for all men” (1 Tim. 2:6), “One died for all” (2 Cor. 5:14)? Clearly, predestination fails to find any support in the Scriptures.

The main question Paul, a Jewish Christian, seeks to address in these chapters is not the predestination of individuals, but the problem of national election: “Why don’t most of our people – God’s chosen people – accept the gospel?”

Chapter 9: Election

Paul begins chapter 9 with a personal lament for his people Israel, even going so far as to say that he was willing to be “accursed from Christ” for the sake of saving his people (v. 3). He continues to describe the special privileges that God bestowed on them:  “To whom pertain the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the service of God, and the promises; of whom are the fathers and from whom, according to the flesh, Christ came, who is over all, the eternally blessed God” (9:4-5). How could such a nation that had the spotlight of God’s truth and love shining on it, reject the very One who had come to save them?

Though it is true that the Jewish nation in general rejected and crucified their own Messiah, it is also true that not all the Jews rejected Him. Some did believe and accept Him. In fact, most of His earlier followers were Jews! But it highlights an important point: “they are not all Israel who are of Israel” (v. 6). In other words, simply being a descendant of Abraham doesn’t mean you are part of God’s chosen people by default. Paul then cites a handful of Old Testament examples that illustrate this point. First up is Abraham himself with his two sons. Isaac, the son born according to the promise of God, was chosen, but Ishmael, the son born of natural desire, was not, even though Abraham was his literal father! (v. 7, 9). This was repeated again in the next generation with Isaac. His son Jacob was chosen, but Esau, Jacob’s twin, was not (v. 10-13). Notice that this divine election was “not of works, but of Him who calls” (v. 11).

Now, does this teach predestination? Notice verses 9:12-13: “‘The older shall serve the younger.’ As it is written, ‘Jacob I have loved but Esau I have hated.’” This is a quotation from Malachi 1:1-4, and if you read that passage, the context reveals that the phrase “Esau I have hated,” is referring not to Esau the individual, but to Esau’s descendants, the Edomites (verse 4). So when Paul quotes this passage from Malachi, he uses it to talk about the nations or people, who descended from these two boys – the Israelites from Jacob, the Edomites from Esau – and not the individuals themselves.

But how is it that God chooses one nation above the others to be His beacon of light in the world? Paul gets boldly blunt here. In essence he declares that God can do whatever He likes, “I will have mercy on whomever I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whomever I will have compassion” (v. 15-16). How can “the thing formed say to him who formed it, ‘Why have you may me like this?’” In the same way, how can the clay talk back to the potter? (v. 20-21). It is significant however, that we find the word “mercy” at least four times in this passage, which indicates that God’s purpose is to show forth His mercy, not just arbitrarily to a select few, but to all those who will accept His mercy.

Chapter 10: Rejection

But we’re still left with Paul’s pressing question, Why did the Jews reject the gospel? After briefly reviewing their calling, he spells it out at the end of chapter 9 and beginning of chapter 10:

But Israel, pursuing the law of righteousness, has not attainted to the law of righteousness. Why? Because they did not seek it by faith, but as it were, by works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumbling stone [Christ]… For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. For they begin ignorant of God’s righteousness, and seeking to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted to the righteousness of God” (Rom. 9:31-32; 10:2-3).

So in answering his question about the Israel’s rejection of the gospel, Paul says it was simply because of their legalism – because they looked to their own achievements, because they did not believe in God’s gift of grace, because they wanted to earn their own way to God, thinking themselves good enough.

This highlights an important point in the discussion of national election. God is not simply arbitrary in who He calls. He calls everyone, but sadly only few respond. When God called Abraham, he responded by leaving his country (Gen. 12:1-4). When God called Moses, he responded by leading the children of Israel out of Egypt (Ex 3-4). When God called the children of Israel, they responded by saying “all that the Lord has said, we will do” (Ex. 19:20; 24:7). But unfortunately, they later forfeited their calling by rejecting the One who had come to save them, believing they could win God’s favour by their works. God is “not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance” (2. Pet. 3:9). But in order for that to happen, we must have the opposite spirit to that of the nation of Israel. We have to remember the words of that great hymn, “Nothing in my hand I bring, simply to Thy cross I cling.” Notice that Paul hasn’t wandered away from the gospel he has been writing on in the previous chapters. He is still presenting the same gospel here, though now applied on a national level.

The Jews lost their special calling because they “have not submitted to the righteousness of God” (10:3). We must realise our own insufficiency – our lost, corrupt, sinful nature. We must submit ourselves to God, and cling to Him as our only hope. Paul gives the reason why we must submit, “For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes” (v. 4). This doesn’t mean that in Christ the law has come to an end (see study on The Law). No! Paul is saying that Christ is the end of the law as a method for salvation, for those who believe. Christ fulfilled the requirements of the law, that by faith, His righteousness may become ours (8:3-4).

Chapter 11: Conversion

Now that the apostle has answered the question of why Israel in general rejected the gospel, he now poses another question: “I say then, has God cast away His people? Certainly not! For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. God has not cast away His people whom He foreknew. Or do you not know what the Scripture says of Elijah, how he pleads with God against Israel, saying, ‘Lord, they have killed Your prophets and torn down Your altars, and I alone am left, and they seek my life’? But what does the divine response say to him? ‘I have reserved for Myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal’” (11:1-4). As pointed out earlier, it is important for us to remember that though the nation of Israel in general rejected the gospel, not all rejected it. This is why he goes on to say in the very next verse, “Even so then, at this present time there is a remnant according to the election of grace” (v. 5, emphasis mine).  God always has His remnant people in every nation, tribe, tongue, and people who have accepted the gospel of grace.

Now, while this section in Romans has been used to support the dour doctrine of predestination, it has also been used to support another doctrine known dispensationalism. Dispensationalists believe that the nation of Israel is distinct from the Church and that God will fulfil His promises to national Israel by the restoration of Jerusalem and the salvation of all the Jews. This teaching has been based largely on Romans 11:6, “And so all Israel will be saved…” Taken on its own, this verse certainly seems to suggest that the nation of Israel is going to be saved. But again, as pointed out earlier with predestination – you can make the Bible say anything by pulling verses out of context.

To understand what Paul means when he says, “And so all Israel will be saved…” we need to remember what he has previously said, “For they are not all Israel who are of Israel… Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, the remnant shall be saved” (9:6, 27). In other words, only a remnant of the Jews will be saved because not all will respond to God’s salvation. The same way only a few Kiwis will be saved, and only a few Aussies will be saved, because not all will accept God’s gift of grace. Also, prior to this verse in chapter 11, the apostle used the illustration of the branches of an olive tree – some are broken off, while others are grafted in. Paul says that “because of unbelief,” the Jewish branches were broken off (11:20). However, he goes on to say that “if they do not continue in unbelief, [they] will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again” (v. 23). He then says, “and so,” in this manner, “Israel will be saved” – by believing and receiving Jesus as their Saviour. “For there is no other name under heaven, given among men, by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). We are “not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ” (Gal. 2:16). “Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His was past finding out! …For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen” (Rom. 11:33, 36).

15 November 2008

MegaChurch Foreclosures: Are They The Devil’s Fault?

This video is about the concepts of “wealth tranfer” (‘the wealth of the wicked [or sinner] is laid up for the just’) and “supernatural debt cancellation” as taught in certain circles in the evangelical Christian church. These concepts support the belief that in the end times, all the world’s wealth will be supernaturally “tranferred” to the Christians. Not only that, but this MUST occur before the return of Christ. This is popularly taught by Kenneth Copeland, Fred Thompson (“Money Cometh!” and “No More Empty Hands”), T.D. Jakes, Creflo Dollar, and many others.

Earlier this year, I struggled in seeing exactly where God was leading me and my family. We’d been overseas for 3 years working among people “unreached” or without a present Gospel witness among their own people, many of whom are also “unengaged” in that there is no one working to change the fact that they are “unreached.”
We had received guidance and prompting through seeing God’s heart and desire and purpose in His written Word as well as God having given my wife and me a broken heart and desire to be used by God for His purpose, for witnessing to the lost unreached-unengaged peoples of the world and bringing them the good news that Jesus is the Savior of all people who will respond in faith. This is a unique calling God has given us: one that will always be a part of our lives, who we are and what we do, no matter what the circumstance or location or vocation we are in.
We have committed to follow God no matter what He asks, and we’ve committed to seek after God’s guidance and leading as it might be changing, maturing, from one place, position, role, work/ministry to another.
We were in the States traveling and meeting a lot with different people, and this was a time of natural transition, if a transition was to be had. We were offered different roles. We were asked about “continuing” in our current work. We ourselves discussed and prayed and challenged each other regarding continuing in the “last known calling” we’d had from God. We were confident and committed to the last clear calling we had been given from God, but we were wanting to make sure that we were not just taking it for granted that God had no other, “new,” calling or plan for us other than that calling to which God had clearly led us, confirmed and affirmed over and over, to the work we had been in for the past 3 years. We wanted to make sure we were continuing to follow God: we were not just assuming that by “doing ministry,” by doing “good things,” by doing the same thing that God had led us to before, was what God wanted for us still.
I was in a tough time of dealing with emotion and waying several “good” options and paths to be decided on. I was in constant discussion and thought and prayer over where God wanted us. As I reflected and worked through where I was and how I got there, I worked through God’s calling, His guidance, that led me to the role and work I was currently in.
God had called me to a specific work, a specific place and position. God had a desire and a plan that he had led me to, that He had shown His hand in, that I had no doubt about His desire.
My responsibility to God’s calling on my life was to obey, to continue to listen, remain attentive and seeking Him and His guidance, but to not stray or divert or be destracted from that “first calling” that “first heart” He had given me. If I was done, if I was at a point in the work God had called me to where I could say I had fulfilled the purpose of the calling, then I would be able to clearly see His leading in another direction. Otherwise, I would obey Him and continue and follow Him and wait for Him to change His calling. I can’t change God’s calling.

This circumstance is near universal for those with a special calling on their life to be about God’s work and ministry. We must continue and obey and not doubt God’s calling, but we must also not have a false contentment in that calling by not continuing to seek God’s confirmation of that calling.

You are the Voice of Hope
The Anchor of my soul
Where there seems to be no way
You make it possible
You are the Prince of Peace
Amidst adversity
My lips will shout for joy
Shout for joy
You are the Most High

God calls you. He will keep you.
He will release you.
There is hope. God will do even if you can’t do anything.
God is the same, yesterday, today, tomorrow.
No circumstance trumps God’s call and keeping.

The very words have certain inherent meaning and purpose in them:

“Sent”why?

“Out” from where?

In answering these essential questions, there is necessarily implied responsibility on the part of the “sent one” and the “sender.”

This is where many who are in the role of an “apostle,” or “sent out one,” find themselves: I’ve a “sent out one,” but either…

1. I don’t have a relationship with any “sending” church, so there is no responsibility to the local church, as is the biblical model for an apostle, so my only responsibility is to the organization that physically sent me, or sent me by proxy for a church(es).

Or…

1. I don’t know why I’ve been sent out, so I do a lot of different things, maybe or maybe not that are what I should be doing as an apostle: What is an “apostle”?

Essentially, this is an issue of local churches failing to be seeking to equip itself (the people that are the church themselves, the church not being a building or leaders or a core group, but the whole of the membership)for the work of accomplishing the mission that Jesus gave the church after his resurrection from the dead:

Matthew 28:18-20 – Going, make disciples, baptizing them, & teaching

Acts 1:8 – You are to be my witnesses (everywhere in the world, among all the peoples of the world)

There is definitely an element of the mission given to the church as a whole, to all believers & to local churches, that is relative to the church’s immediate place/community, but the local church is also to be about sending out its own who are called to fulfill a specific part of the mission of bearing witness to all people by going out from the local church body’s immediate people and place and going to those places throughout the world that need a witness and the good news that Jesus is the Savior.

The biblical model of this is seen in Acts 13:1-5, where a church is engaged in prayerful following of God and its members are obeying Jesus out of love. Then God leads them to send out specific members to bring the Good News to those do not have it: Paul & Barnabas therefore become “apostles” in the literal sense of the word, in that they become sent out for a specific purpose, carrying a message (as opposed to the use of “Apostles” to refer to Jesus’ “Disciples”). The local church is seeking God and God’s purpose for the members of the church, they are led and respond.

A typical contemporary occurance in the local church is an individual responding to God’s leading/calling on them, and after they respond in their heart to this calling, they inform their church or a parachurch group or sending agency, etc. This is a reversal of the biblical model, due to many different reasons.

Local church responding and sending

Vs.

Individual responding and informing/telling the local church (Many times telling the local church is only accidentally or after realizing they need to have a “home church” in order to go with an “sending organization” that is essentially parachurch.)

The impetus for the local church, especially its leaders, teachers, and those churches focused on a Great Commission Resurgence is to recognize their responsibility to seek, recognize, and send out those that God is calling to be sent out, to be set apart for fulfilling his mission in an apostolic role, in the role of being sent out from their local church to bear witness to Jesus among a people with no witness.

Also, those local churches that already have persons in the role of an apostle that consider that local church to be their home church, sending church, etc. need to fulfill their end of the responsibility of by actually sending out that apostle as their apostle, by holding their apostle accountable, equipping their apostle, and partnering with their apostle.

The impetus for an apostle that is without a connection to a local church at all, should seek to find a local church that they would become members of, that would send them out as an apostle in fulfilling God’s calling on their lives.

Acts 14:26-27 – Those apostles that have a local sending church need to make sure they are doing two things:

1. Fulfilling their responsibility as a member of the church in the role of an apostle by continuing to serve the church, by reporting on what God is doing, by equipping the church members to fulfill God’s purpose for the church, by enabling the church to obey God and partner with them, and by serving the church when they are back among the local body.
2. Encouraging and educating the local sending church regarding the church’s responsibilities to them as the church’s apostle. This can be encouraged by the apostle consistently updating and reporting to the church and encouraging the church to join and partner in the work by providing opportunities.

Church is not only about “feeding you.” Church is just existing for you.

The local church body is God’s design for organizing and working out bringing about his purposes and glorifying himself. The body has many parts and there is a mutual responsibility between the parts in order to fulfill God’s purposes: together, the church enables and equips its members in order to fulfill God’s calling and guidance for the church as a whole and the church’s individual members.

“Some of the early missionaries, on returning home, were reproved by the Lord in section 84 of the Doctrine and Covenants because they had treated lightly the Book of Mormon. As a result, their minds had been darkened. The Lord said that this kind of treatment of the Book of Mormon brought the whole Church under condemnation, even all of the children of Zion. And then the Lord said, ‘And they shall remain under this condemnation until they repent and remember the new covenant, even the Book of Mormon.’ (See D&C 84:54–57.) Are we still under that condemnation?”Reading the Book of Mormon is one of the greatest persuaders to get men on missions. We need more missionaries. But we also need better-prepared missionaries coming out of the wards and branches and homes where they know and love the Book of Mormon. A great challenge and day of preparation is at hand for missionaries to meet and teach with the Book of Mormon. We need missionaries to match our message.”

Ezra Taft Benson, “The Book of Mormon Is the Word of God,” Ensign, May 1975, 65