![]() In the last teaching, we sought to learn who the Father thru the story of the prodigal son. Tonight, we are going to look at Jesus. By using the scriptures, we are going to see what they say about Him, what He says about himself, and what this means to us. Note: There is no issue more important than where are we going to go when we die. This is what Jesus came for, and what he spent His time teaching while He was here. Mark 8:36 "For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul." In the 3rd ch. of John 1-7, Nicodemus came to Jesus to ask the most important questions recorded in history, how to receive eternal life. Nicodemus was a scholar of religion, spending most of his life in the ancient scrolls and parchments. He was highly intelligent, but realized there was something missing in his life. He knew Jesus had a closeness to God that he missed. He wanted that closeness, spiritual power, and he came seeking Jesus for the answers. Signs of a receptive heart: 1. He wanted to learn, he was willing to listen to someone else, instead of stubbornly holding to his own dead ideas that he knew were faulty 2. He acknowledged his own emptiness 3. He humbled himself to go to the one who could answer him, because he could see the fruit of Jesus' life, that he has answers that Nicodemus was looking for "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that you do, except God be with him." Jesus gave him an answer he didn't expect: Nicodemus was looking for a tangible answer something he could write down and put into a practice; a law or principal to follow. But Jesus told him he must EXPERIENCE GOD in a relationship, NOT FOLLOW A FORMULA. Many people are like Nicodemus. They are seeking answers to questions about God rather than seeking God Himself. They think that if all of their questions can be answered to their satisfaction, and the pieces properly assembled in their minds, then they will have the correct concept intellectually, and understanding will be theirs. TRUE SPIRITUAL LIFE IS SPIRITUAL IT IS BEING ALIVE TO GOD A MAN'S NATURAL SENSES ARE DEAD TO GOD EXPLANATION: A corpse lies unaware of anything around it. It cannot feel, or see anything. God is all around us, but the natural man is unaware of God as a corpse is to the sun or rain. In receiving Christ we know God, we are awakened, and with this awakening comes new life. Acts 17:28 "In God we live, and move, and have our being." SPIRITUAL LIFE COMES BY REALIZING WITH THE HEART WHO HE IS, AND KNOWING HIM IN THE LIGHT OF THIS REVELATION. AND IT CAN ONLY COME BY REVELATION. IT IS NOT A PRODUCT OF REASONING POWERS IT CANNOT HAPPEN THRU POSITIVE THINKING IT IS NOT THE FRUIT OF RELIGION Text Matt. 16:13,14 Thru the ages men have had many speculations, and reasoned in themselves who Jesus is. Human intelligence and reasoning has come up with a number of conclusions. He was John the Baptist reincarnated or one of the prophets, or just another spiritual teacher. In the text Jesus asked his disciples, "But whom do you say I am?" Here we are given the greatest revelation from Peter of the truth of who Jesus is "And Simon Peter answered and said, You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God." 1. The greek word apokalupto, means revelation, or "take off the cover". Peter was given a revelation from God who Jesus really was. 2. This revelation was given by the Holy Spirit to Peter, it did not come from his own human reasoning. Now, his own spirit was enlightened, and he knew, he saw and understood. a. 1John 5:1 says "Whosoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God." Acts 16:31 says "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you shall be saved." What Was His Mission Jesus only came into the world for one reason; to save sinners. There is no other reason why He came from heaven to this sin sick world, it was for you and I. Luke 5:32 "I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." Luke 15:1,2 "Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receives sinners, and eats with them." 1Tim. 1:15; Paul said "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief." 1John2:2 "He is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world." 1John 4:10 "Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins." Many people believe in Jesus, but are not saved; the bible tells us the devils believe and tremble. James 2:19 "You believe that there is one God; you believe well: the devils also believe, and tremble." Christianity is not being Baptist, Catholic, Methodist or any other religion. It is not cooking church suppers, doing rummage sales for the poor, it's not being a police man for God by enforcing His laws. If God took the cover off and let you see, as Peter did, you would see Christ, and Christ alone. Not a philosophy, not a protestant or Catholic ethic, not a theological position, not even a way of life......but a Person. Not merely Jesus......but Jesus the Christ. In Acts 2:36 when Peter was restored by Jesus after His resurrection; Peter preached a powerful message and proclaimed "God has made Jesus both Lord and Christ. 4. It is very important to know that we can be faithful to the teachings of Jesus, be an excellent churchman, yet not be a Christian. What does propitiation mean? Propitiation: Is a Greek word "hilasterion", meaning " an atoning victim. The Old Testament atonement was made by a propitiation, a blood sacrifice. "For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the alter to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that makes and atonement for the soul." Lev. 17:11 This Old Testament declaration of atonement through the blood was a picture of things to come. It was the prophetic announcement of Christ. In the New Testament we read, "We joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement." Rom. 5:11 Now, atonement means restoration to Divine favor. When Jesus went to the cross, and died there, He made atonement for your sins, all of them, and restored you, even while you still lived in sin. On the Cross He cried; it is finished. The price for your sins and mine were paid. Salvation comes when we receive the free gift of His salvation, and simply ask for His forgiveness and cleansing. Then open your heart, and ask Him to come in, and help you live for Him in this life. There are no works that we can do to earn our salvation. When we are born again, our desires will change little by little; we won't want to sin anymore, this is the evidence of God's spirit living within us. A man escapes the wages of sin because the Heavenly Father values His Son's sacrifice more than anything else. The Father freely accepts those who come to Him through this sacrifice. No matter what they have done, they will be forgiven if they will ask in the name of the Son. However, if someone scorns, or smugly tries to rest on their own merits, or own imaginations, they remain in darkness, and headed for an eternity without God, and eternal damnation. We choose our own ultimate destination; God does not send anyone to hell, they send themselves. Is There Any Other Way Let's see what the scriptures say. What Jesus said about Himself: John 8:58 "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am." Here He identifies Himself as the eternal, ever existing God, who spoke the same truth to Moses when he called him to service, in Ex. 3:14. John 10:7-10 "Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief comes not but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." John 14:6 "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Acts 4:12 "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." 1Tim. 2:5 "For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus." According to these and many other scriptures; Christ is the only way provided to us for salvation. He was more than a man called Jesus from Nazareth, He was the Christ from heaven. I would suggest doing a cross reference study of these verses-it would take many hours, but be invaluable in opening your eyes and spirit to get insight into the Person and Work of Jesus Christ, and His deity. The disciples were persecuted fiercely, imprisoned, stoned, and killed not just because they talked about a good man, or even because they repeated his teachings. No one resented that, they were stoned, beaten, and killed because they preached Jesus was the Christ. There is no stigma or persecution attached to the person who sees Jesus as a teacher only. When men consider Jesus as a teacher, most can accept His sayings about love, and the golden rule. It is not the Jesus the "teacher" or Jesus the "good man", that people reject. It is Jesus the Christ. What causes persecution; The message of the cross, The blood shed for us, The resurrection, The second coming. We will have to make up our minds also is Jesus is worth it to us; to go thru whatever we may have to; to stand firm for Him. The bible never offers us, or promises us an easy walk, but does set us on the path of heaven, and a "city, whose builder and maker is God." Satan hates these truths to be proclaimed, because he knows everyone who receives Christ is one he has lost from his grips of sin. But, the one who proclaims that Jesus is the Christ, the only Son of the Father, is mocked, persecuted to this day. However, Jesus speaks comfort to us; Joh 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. What he was telling his disciples, and us is, because He has overcome the world, we can also, as we continue to walk in His steps, and trust Him daily. He commissions us to go in His name, and proclaim these great tidings of salvation, and has promised us His abiding presence, in every situation. Mat 28:18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Mat 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Mat 28:20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. Luke 2:11 tells us- "Unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior which is Christ the Lord." Jesus.....not a teacher only, but a SAVIOR. Lorna Couillard 2007 teaching for Teen Challenge Food for the remnant Body of Christ-a timely and powerful message of discerning the days we live in, and encouragement to the persecuted- The Beginning of Sorrows- https://youtu.be/Gt-6hqCDx_8 The Fall of Jericho Text Joshua chapter 6 (read verse 1-5, advise the men to read the rest during their own study) Jos 6:1 Now Jericho was straitly shut up because of the children of Israel: none went out, and none came in. Jos 6:2 And the LORD said unto Joshua, See, I have given into thine hand Jericho, and the king thereof, and the mighty men of valour. Jos 6:3 And ye shall compass the city, all ye men of war, and go round about the city once. Thus shalt thou do six days. Jos 6:4 And seven priests shall bear before the ark seven trumpets of rams' horns: and the seventh day ye shall compass the city seven times, and the priests shall blow with the trumpets. Jos 6:5 And it shall come to pass, that when they make a long blast with the ram's horn, and when ye hear the sound of the trumpet, all the people shall shout with a great shout; and the wall of the city shall fall down flat, and the people shall ascend up every man straight before him. Teaching
As I read of the account of the fall of Jericho, I made several observations that we can apply to our "walls of opposition" today. 1. Their faith: No doubt they were mocked, laughed at and scorned by the people of Jericho during the six days they marched carrying the ark, blowing their shofars, in silence. But, they did as Joshua commanded, they did not voice unbelief, even if they were thinking it. They marched on, and blew those shofars into the atmosphere, declaring to the demonic forces that they had to bow to God Almighty. They were in enemy territory, and every move and decision they made meant life or death, they meant business with God, and the enemy. Following God is not a social activity, or a business, it is our walk of faith, in this world and the next. Satan wants one thing, to totally destroy you, because he hates Jesus Christ, and his people. A. The Word says: "The earth is the Lord's, and the fullness thereof." (psalm 24) and "Every Knee shall bow, and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Php. 2:10) This is the foundation of our warfare in this life. B. In Matt. 28:18, after his resurrection, Jesus said "All power has been given to me in heaven and in earth." In our times of battle and opposition we know that if he suffered in this life, we will too, but he also told us "be of good cheer, I've overcome the world". We are not promised a life of ease, but that He would be with us, and in us through each battle, till we make it home to be with him. 2. Obedience: The people in one accord did as Joshua commanded, regardless of their feelings. There will be times in our lives when God will clearly show us His will, and we are left to make up our minds whether we will do it or not. He will not force us to obey, and at times the thing we are asked to do makes no sense in the natural. In my own life, every time I've chosen to obey even when it seemed foolish to do so, God has proven himself true, and I've seen some amazing answers to prayer at these times. I've learned, and am still learning to put away my rationalization, and cling to the Word of God, and when He speaks to me to do something, just do it. Going on further in this area, we may be asked to do something in a prophetic sense that seems crazy, and as some of the prophets in the old testament found, sometimes the fulfillment of what we are asked to do, and pray for, may take years to see come to pass. I've had situations like this in my life-and this is another level of obedience, that many get stuck on, and some lose the benefit of seeing miraculous answers to prayer, because they aren't willing to take the risks, and it's true, sometimes this level of obedience is taking a great risk-you have to be willing to look like a fool to the world. Prophets such as Jeremiah and Ezekiel knew what that meant. A: Heb. 11:6 says "without faith it is impossible to please God, for he who comes to him must believe that he exists, and is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." And, in John 15:5 and 7 Jesus says "I am the vine, you are the branches: He that abides in me, and I in Him, the same brings forth much fruit: for without me you can do nothing. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, you shall ask what you will, and it shall be done unto you." These people knew they had no power of their own to take the walls down. Their dependence was on God alone. B. A similar corresponding reference can be seen in the story in 2Chronicles when the Moabites and Ammonites came against Jehoshaphat. In his prayer he speaks of their helplessness in the situation: 2Ch 20:11 Behold, I say, how they reward us, to come to cast us out of thy possession, which thou hast given us to inherit. 2Ch 20:12 O our God, wilt thou not judge them? for we have no might against this great company that cometh against us; neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon thee. I strongly advise you to spend time on this entire chapter of 2 Chronicles chapter 20 and Jehoshaphat's prayer. I know if you do, you will come away being shown by God some very important points on effective warfare prayer, and prayer of intercession, and how to approach God in prayer, with reverence, and honesty-which are vital. If there is any dishonesty, or pretense in us, we will find this a great hindrance to receiving any answers to prayer. Pro 15:29 The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous. Psa 66:18 If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: 1Pe 3:12 For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil. 3. Worship from the heart. You may ask, where was the worship? There was no music, dancing, or singing...it was every step they took in obedience: this was worship, that got God's attention, and brought results. We face the same dilemma's today in our situations. In Ephesians we are told of Christ being seated now far above all principalities and powers, and dominions. Eph 1:20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, Eph 1:21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: Eph 1:22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Eph 1:23 Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all. It's there where He is seated that we must focus our minds and hearts, and worship Him for who He is, not a god we may create in our own thinking. The word of God tells us when we become born again, and are redeemed, we are seated with Christ in the heavenlies, this is a mindboggling truth-but one that will raise your faith when the Holy Spirit in you opens your eyes to this revelation: Eph 2:6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: If we truly desire to know Him, and seek him with our whole hearts, we will find Him. And when we truly connect with him by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, we will be as Isaiah when he saw Him on His throne, and he said "Woe is me, for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts." When we open our hearts to Jesus for salvation, the Holy Spirit comes in, and the more we study His word, the more our eyes are opened to the truth of who Jesus is, who we are now as saved people of God, and what our privileges, authority, and responsibilities are in the kingdom of God. When these truths take root in our lives, and we walk them out day by day, we begin to see victories in our battles of life, and answers to prayer. As our faith increases, God will open the doors for greater service in His kingdom-which has no end. Lorna Couillard 2008 Teaching for Teen Challenge Decisions That Define Us
As we begin this journey as a believer in Christ, there are evaluations and decisions we will have to look squarely at, and make up our minds about as the Word of God illuminates places in our lives that need correction, where we need to repent, change our minds about, and change our pattern of living. Over the years these decisions have been put before me in my mind, and I've had to wrestle with them in my soul, and ask the Lord to help me to put into practice, in order to align myself with His will, and come into a meaningful relationship with Him. Tonight I will share them, and hopefully God will be able to use it in your lives, and the Holy Spirit will be able to show you area's in your life that need adjustments. To make up my mind to take control of my own body, and take authority over it. (Advise them to study Proverbs). Pr 16:32 He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city. Pr 25:28 He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls. ⦁ My mind-what I chose to think about, and allow to come into my mind. ⦁ My body-what I allow myself to eat, my actions, my responses, my appetites ⦁ My spirit-what I chose to believe, what I allow to affect my spirit (video games, violent movies, pornography, drugs, alcohol, etc.) ⦁ My emotions-Realize I DO have control over them, and can subdue them if I really want to. To honor the past - we don't live in it. Php 3:12 Not that I have already obtained, or am already made perfect: but I press on, if so be that I may lay hold on that for which also I was laid hold on by Christ Jesus. Php 3:13 Brethren, I could not myself yet to have laid hold: but one thing [I do], forgetting the things which are behind, and stretching forward to the things which are before, Php 3:14 I press on toward the goal unto the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Php 1:6 being confident of this very thing, that he who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Jesus Christ: Lu 9:62 But Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God. ⦁ We can do nothing to change it. When we are born again, and surrender our lives to Jesus, we begin to see by studying the word of God, who we are in Christ. That our sins are washed away, we have been cleansed by His blood, and stand now in His righteousness. That is what Christ came for, and what His will is for every person-but it is by our free choice. He waits patiently for even the most wretched sinner, to turn and come to Him for redemption. For those of us who have-we are now new creatures, and seated with Christ in heavenly places. We are His sons and daughters, purchased by His blood, and covered in a robe of righteousness. When people or the devil speaks in your ears bringing up your past sins to condemn you, you can simply point to Jesus, and say "Yes, I have sinned, but my sin debt is paid in full, by Jesus Christ". It shuts the mouths of your enemies, the devil, and sets your spirit free. ⦁ The solution is to open our hearts and receive God's forgiveness. Forgive ourselves, and other's who may have hurt or abused us in the past. To live in the present with our eyes on the future. Php 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therein to be content. Php 4:12 I know how to be abased, and I know also how to abound: in everything and in all things have I learned the secret both to be filled and to be hungry, both to abound and to be in want. 1ti 6:8 but having food and covering we shall be therewith content. Heb 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. ⦁ As Paul came to the place of being content in all things, this is our goal ⦁ However, remain in faith to the possibilities of change Realize God will even use the bad experiences in our lives to work for our good, if we will let Him. To see past events - successes and failures - as stepping-stones not stop signs. Ro 5:3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; Ro 5:4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: Ro 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. ⦁ Each experience good and bad of our lives can be used for our advantage. Every successful person has had their share of failures, and setbacks, do not allow yourself to think your the only one, or that failure is impossible to overcome. (Ex. Abraham Lincoln failed over 30 times in the Senate before finally becoming President. Edison failed year after year for many years before finally creating a light bulb that actually worked) There are plenty of people in this world who will try to rail on you with their criticism, many of them won't attempt anything themselves, and want to see you fail also. Rise above the critics, and dare to do what God may put on your heart, let Him guide your footsteps, and see where it leads. Set yourself free from people's condemnations, and explore the possibilities of what you can do, with God's help. To not allow people to define who I am, but only the Lord himself, and His Word. This is important, set boundaries in your life, and be aware of those who wish to set themselves up as your guide, and mentor-what are they teaching/preaching?...the Gospel of Jesus Christ, or their own doctrines, opinions, and attempting to categorize you, because they feel they have reached some level of authority over you. If you are born again, you are under the authority, and the precious blood of Christ. He will teach you and guide you into all truth, through His word. God may use somebody to reveal something to you, and teach you a truth-but if they do, it will be evident by the fact that the Holy Spirit has confirmed what was said through them by scripture, and not just ones taken out of context. It will be truth revealed by at least two or three verses, and the Lord will give solid conviction that this is from Him. There are many mega churches and teachers who know how to twist the word of God today, and make it say just about anything they want-but if you really search for truth, pray and ask God for discernment, you will see through the layers of deception as you listen to them, and you'll know if they are truly serving the Lord, or promoting themselves. ⦁ Evaluate yourself by what the bible says about you and your life, not by people's personal opinion of you. ⦁ Let the Holy Spirit be the one to show you where you may need to make changes in your life, or any sin you may need to repent of. He will lead you, and bring light to your spirit by the scriptures to show you any area that He may be dealing with you about. Read a portion of "Who Am I" To pursue learning in order to be transformed, not learning in order to know. Joh 6:28 Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Joh 6:29 Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. Jas 1:27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. Ac 4:8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, Ac 4:9 If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; Ac 4:10 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. Ac 4:11 This is the stone which was set at naught of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. Ac 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. ⦁ Our motives for learning should be to know for the sake of illumination of our minds and spirits to come into line with the will of God. There is nothing wrong with striving for excellence in a field of employment, or education. However, knowledge can become another idol, and people can become arrogant, and puffed up in pride and superiority. It is a good idea to check our hearts as we are learning and gaining knowledge, and humble ourselves if we allow this in our lives; before the Lord humbles us. To be a person of engagement not observation. ⦁ Joy and fulfillment will come as we actively engage in the good wholesome activities and employments God has blessed us with, and using our talents as the Lord opens the doors for us to do so. As we walk with the Lord and pray for opportunities; we will become aware when the doors do open, and as we line ourselves with His will, we will begin to see His favor in our lives. Even when obstacles come, or trials, we will still know the abiding presence of the Lord, His peace, and see His hand of protection on us. When we become aware of His guidance and direction in our lives; it becomes fuel to our spirits to keep seeking Him, and His will for our lives. Becoming aware of His active presence in our lives also builds our faith, and encourages us along the way. To focus on what could be, not on what is or has been. 2co 5:7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) ⦁ Looking back too much to our failures, and mistakes can cause us to despair, to lose faith We can become hopeless, and eventually totally paralyzed to the point that we will refuse to try anymore. This is the work of the devil. His whole mission is to "kill, steal, and destroy". We must believe Jesus words to us "I have come that they may have life, and life more abundantly". To not be limited to the four walls of a building or organization. Our influence is not restricted by location, or structured by a denomination - not even the nations are out of bounds. The commission given to us in Matt. ch. 18 by the Lord was to go "to all the world and preach the gospel." Mt 20:28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. Lu 18:34 And they understood none of these things: and this saying was hid from them, neither knew they the things which were spoken. Lu 18:35 And it came to pass, that as he was come nigh unto Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the way side begging: Lu 18:36 And hearing the multitude pass by, he asked what it meant. Lu 18:37 And they told him, that Jesus of Nazareth passeth by. Lu 18:38 And he cried, saying, Jesus, thou son of David, have mercy on me. Lu 18:39 And they which went before rebuked him, that he should hold his peace: but he cried so much the more, Thou son of David, have mercy on me. Lu 18:40 And Jesus stood, and commanded him to be brought unto him: and when he was come near, he asked him, Lu 18:41 Saying, What wilt thou that I shall do unto thee? And he said, Lord, that I may receive my sight. Lu 18:42 And Jesus said unto him, Receive thy sight: thy faith hath saved thee. Lu 18:43 And immediately he received his sight, and followed him, glorifying God: and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise unto God. ⦁ When Jesus was here, he walked the highways, and byways, and ministered to the people wherever He went with his disciples. He showed us by example how to live out our Christian walk, among the people, wherever we find ourselves at the moment. ⦁ As soon as Jesus spoke in Matt. 20:28, in Luke 18:35-43 the story continues, and he heals the blind man to make the point that "He came to minister, not to be ministered to." This He did to also emphasize that this is to be our example. To raise up world changers - not tour guides. To train disciples and servants, not committees. As you study the book of Acts, you see the disciples preaching and ministering everywhere they went. They were not concerned with buildings or creating new rules and laws to try to keep. Their entire focus was on the great news that Jesus died for their sins, and rose again to life; to give them that same life. They could not keep silent, their joy was too great. To be a people of destiny, not of our history. Ps 37:23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. Ps 37:24 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand. Ps 145:14 The LORD upholdeth all that fall, and raiseth up all those that be bowed down. Pr 24:16 For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief. Job 5:17-26 Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty: For he maketh sore, and bindeth up: he woundeth, and his hands make whole. He shall deliver thee in six troubles: yea, in seven there shall no evil touch thee. In famine he shall redeem thee from death: and in war from the power of the sword. Thou shalt be hid from the scourge of the tongue: neither shalt thou be afraid of destruction when it cometh. At destruction and famine thou shalt laugh: neither shalt thou be afraid of the beasts of the earth. For thou shalt be in league with the stones of the field: and the beasts of the field shall be at peace with thee. And thou shalt know that thy tabernacle shall be in peace; and thou shalt visit thy habitation, and shalt not sin. Thou shalt know also that thy seed shall be great, and thine offspring as the grass of the earth. Thou shalt come to thy grave in a full age, like as a shock of corn cometh in in his season. ⦁ No matter what we have done, or how old we may be; it is never to late to decide to change. ⦁ Our true destiny begins to be lived out the day of our salvation, and our obedience to the Lord from that point on. As pilgrims and strangers here, we are looking for an "eternal city, whose builder and maker is God". Our destiny is heaven, and our eternal home. To decide that it is better to fail while reaching for the impossible that God has planned for me than succeed settling for less. 1co 10:31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. Col 3:17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. Col 3:23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Col 3:24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. ⦁ Advise: take time to seek God for His direction for your life. ⦁ Ask Him to reveal His goals to you. Ask the Lord to open doors of opportunity for you, and watch things begin to happen. To have decided that nothing short of His Kingdom come, His will be done in my world as it is in Heaven will satisfy. Mt 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Mt 6:34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. Php. 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. We can allow God to rule in OUR LIVES AND HEARTS, AND ALLOW HIS KINGDOM TO REIGN IN US, RIGHT HERE AND RIGHT NOW, REGARDLESS OF WHAT ANYONE ELSE DOES. When we do, we will experience a level of peace, self control, and steadfastness of faith that we never thought possible before. His abiding presence in our lives will become stronger and stronger as we yield ourselves to Him and His Word. This is what is called "being transformed by the renewing of our minds." If we have any questions about any situation, as to whether it is the right thing to do or not, simply ask yourself "what does Jesus say about this," and obey. To have decided that I will not be satisfied until our world cries out "Those who have turned the world upside down have come here too." In the book of Acts the disciples were threatened, imprisoned, stoned, chased out of cities, mocked, and rejected-they just kept preaching, and testifying of Jesus. Their message was boldly, and simply proclaimed: Ac 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. Ac 10:42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. Mr 16:15-20 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen. ⦁ It takes time to even begin to think about this decision-we begin to think on these terms and make these kinds of decisions after we've reached a level of maturity. Some believer's who are called out for ministry begin to make these decisions early, other's takes time. A desire begins to develop in us to see other's saved, to come to know Christ. We are no longer content to just be assured of our own salvation; we look around us and see a world in darkness, and realize without Christ these poor souls are headed for hell, as we were before we were redeemed. We aren't content to just live for our own pleasure; this is the work of the Holy Spirit in us, growing us up in God. We begin to see that our labor in this life can't be just for this life alone, and for our own selfishness. A desire to bear "eternal fruit", begins to develop in us, to see other's come to Christ and receive His free gift of salvation. Many Christians struggle with this desire a long time, and some bury it because it causes them discomfort, and they allow this desire to die, because of laziness, not wanting to pay the prices, and fear. The decisions to obey the prompting of the Lord in service begin to create multiple struggles in our spirit, it always boils down to just one thing really, "do I really love the Lord, and will I chose to obey, or not." ⦁ The decisions to "make a difference" for Christ in our lives continues to grow and develop more as we continue to walk with Jesus and truly come to know Him. The love and forgiveness He has poured out on us becomes to heavy to keep to ourselves, and we must share it with other's. When we come to this place of decision we also begin to realize that we are "called and chosen", just as the first disciples were. We become aware of the great privileges God has given us, to work alongside with Him in the harvest fields. To have our eyes opened to this degree is an honor, a privilege, and greatly humbling. I pray that each of you will come to this place in your walk with Christ. These are some of the decisions that should define who we are as believer's in Christ. These decisions are not destinations - but rather journeys - journeys along an ancient path - we have not found some new way - but rather rediscovered the path as old as Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The same path followed by Moses, Joshua and Caleb - Paul, John, Peter. The path followed by the first century church - a church that revolutionized the culture of the first century and beyond. It is a path that will impact the world we live in today. It is a path of Bold Faith - believing that what God says is really true and acting on it; Outrageous Generosity - giving our life away in order to demonstrate His Kingdom; Radical Love - loving God with everything in us and our neighbor as ourselves. It is a path of liberty, freedom, and healing. On this path you find significance, purpose, and destiny. This is a path less traveled – however - it is not a path only available to a select few - but to whosoever will - may come. It is for people of every nation, tribe and tongue - for those in any occupation or vocation. No matter where you are in your life journey - there is room on this path for you. Lorna Couillard 2008 Teaching for Teen Challenge |
Welcome
May you find a source of sound spiritual food for your soul and spirit here. Jesus Christ is Lord Rev 12:11
And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.
In the day when I cried thou answeredst me, and strengthenedst me with strength in my soul. All the kings of the earth shall praise thee, O LORD, when they hear the words of thy mouth. Psalm 138:2-4 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Php 4:13 The NightWatchman
Easy Access to Important Teachings
Spiritual Warfare
https://www.thenightwatchman.org/teachings/spiritual-warfare The Weapons of Our Warfare https://www.thenightwatchman.org/teachings/the-weapons-of-our-warfare Satan's Directed Energy Weapons https://www.thenightwatchman.org/teachings/satans-directed-energy-weapons UNCOVERING THE CULTS https://www.thenightwatchman.org/teachings/uncovering-the-cults Works of the Flesh https://www.thenightwatchman.org/teachings/works-of-the-flesh John - The Voice in the Wilderness https://www.thenightwatchman.org/teachings/john-the-voice-in-the-wilderness The Lord's Prayer-Thy Kingdom Come https://www.thenightwatchman.org/teachings/the-lords-prayer-thy-kingdom-come Sodom's Sister https://www.thenightwatchman.org/teachings/sodoms-sister Finishing the Course https://www.thenightwatchman.org/teachings/finishing-the-course The NightWatchman https://www.thenightwatchman.org/teachings/the-nightwatchman The Father https://www.thenightwatchman.org/teachings/the-father JESUS THE SON https://www.thenightwatchman.org/teachings/jesus-the-son Bringing Down The Walls https://www.thenightwatchman.org/teachings/bringing-down-the-walls Defining Decisions https://www.thenightwatchman.org/teachings/defining-decision Archives
December 2024
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