We just finished covering all the aspects to Water Baptism. This is a simple but important ceremony signifying your submission to God and acceptance of Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour…

Our next step will be to receive the Holy Spirit as the controller of your life. Let me explain. When you get saved, God cleans your house (removes all your past sins- you are free from guilt). God also destroys the work of the Devil in your life. One more important thing God does is place his Divine Nature in you meaning that his Spirit now lives in you (The Holy Spirit). In  a nutshell being saved means God will protect you, God will preserve you and God will deliver you, all done by His Spirit.

Now even though the Holy Spirit lives in you, that doesn’t mean you have relinquished control. My son Victor lives at my house, that doesn’t mean he is in control of my house. Just because the Holy Spirit lives in your body (house) doesn’t mean that you have given him full control. To be a good witness of Jesus Christ you must be empowered by this Spirit to lead you in the path of righteousness (a path acceptable to God himself).

The hardest thing I had to learn was that I had no power to be on this righteous path of my own ability, I need Gods Spirit to lead me! Think of it this way, we all want to spend an eternity with Jesus in Heaven. We all want to find God and do his work. Who better to lead us to God than HIS Spirit? We on our own DO NOT know the way, we need to be led and led by someone who can get us there. Who is qualified to lead you in making a million dollars, a millionaire or someone working at a fast food joint talking big? The person that has actually already arrived at the destination you are trying to get to. The Holy Spirit knows how to find God and will lead us the entire way if we will receive him and turn over the control to direct us. Why not let the Holy Spirit have the drivers seat in your car (life). He is a flawless driver and knows exactly where to go. Without him do you know the directions to steer yourself to God? Do you understand what I’m getting at?

Let’s go through some scripture so you see this is not my opinion but Gods instructions from His manual, the Bible…

Baptism In The Holy Spirit

Acts 19:2-3 (New King James Version)

² he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?”
So they said to him, “We have not so much as heard whether there is a Holy Spirit.”
³ And he said to them, “Into what then were you baptized?”
So they said, “Into John’s baptism.”

This scripture explains the majority of the Church world as we know it today. Most don’t even know that there is another baptism let alone what that baptism will do for you. This is proving that there is a difference between water baptism and Holy Spirit baptism. John only baptized in water even when he baptized Jesus.

John 1:33 (New King James Version)

³³ I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’

Here you see the reference again that John baptizes in water and that whoever  you see (it will be Jesus) the Spirit descending and remaining, this is who baptizes with the Holy Spirit. Understand that until Jesus received the Holy Spirit he did not do any miracles (healing, feeding 5000 etc.). So it was this Spirit that gave him power to do miraculous things in other peoples life. It will be the same for you! 

Luke 3:16 (New King James Version)

¹⁶ John answered, saying to all, “I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.

Mark 1:8 (New King James Version)

⁸ I indeed baptized you with water, but He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”

Matthew 3:11 (New King James Version)

¹¹ I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.

Again the reference of a different baptism… Why do I continue these examples? because they are plastered all over the Bible yet other Preachers don’t seem to know that  there is a difference. Just because the Bible uses the word baptism, it doesn’t mean they are all the same. There are 7 different baptisms (which I will explain in other posts as the Spirit leads). I have discussed this issue with other “elect” and they just couldn’t seem to get it even though it is so evident and plain.

Matthew 3:13-16 (New King James Version)

John Baptizes Jesus

   
¹³ Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. ¹⁴ And John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?”
¹⁵ But Jesus answered and said to him, “Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed Him.
¹⁶ When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him.

If you think of what water baptism represents you will see why John was saying he needed to be baptized by Jesus. Water baptism is the symbol that you have already repented of your sins and have submitted to God . Jesus never sinned and was always doing exactly what the Father had required. Jesus did this ceremony to fulfill scripture and to be an example to man. That is why it is an insult to God when you do not do what Jesus showed us to do. Remember Jesus is our example to follow if you are going to be considered His disciple.

Well what if you don’t follow HIS example and decide to do things your own way? Then you are not His disciple… Doesn’t this seem elementary?

 John 7:37-39 (New King James Version)

The Promise of the Holy Spirit

   
³⁷ On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. ³⁸ He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” ³⁹ But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.

Jesus cried out. This is such an important factor for your salvation that Jesus is passionate about what he is saying. A very important aspect to note, “as the scripture has said”. This is a qualifier to what is available (or promised) next. Do you see how important it is to go by the instruction manual? Anyone who believes that Jesus was the Messiah (Saviour), will always have hope in their life. This hope I speak of is not the type of hope the world offers (like buying a lottery ticket, you hope to win). Hope that springs (as in water gushing) from the Cross of Christ is considered an assurance or guarantee. Rivers of living water refers to the regeneration of your mind that occurs daily when you accept the finished work of Christ at Calvary daily. Jesus is pointing out that until he finishes his mission (redeeming mankind through a sacrificial death at Calvary) and ascends to sit at the right hand of the Father, the Holy Spirit will not be imparted to man.

Acts 2:2-4 (New King James Version)

² And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. ³ Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. ⁴ And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

This filling of the Holy Spirit is a supernatural occurrence. If you try to consider this with a natural mind this will seem far fetched. I even have heard some say that the Baptism in the Holy Spirit does not occur today or is not relevant for our times. That type of thinking is exactly why the Church at large is in Apostasy. If you are not empowered by the Holy Spirit then you do not have the power and direction necessary to be a true witness for Jesus Christ. Notice I did not say you couldn’t get into Heaven. Heaven is available to all that believe the message of “Jesus Christ and him crucified”.

To lead other people unto righteousness you must have the Holy Spirit working or it becomes a work of man and not a work of God. Mans type of righteousness is corrupt and not accepted by God and never will be. However He has provided a way and we need to submit to this will and way. You will know this supernatural work that has occurred in your life when you speak in other tongues as the Spirit gives you utterance.

On a personal note, when I received the Holy Spirit (yes it’s true for today’s time) I was so overwhelmed by this supernatural experience that I called everyone I knew and told them about it. “It’s true, It’s true, God is real, Jesus is alive, this Holy Spirit thing is true”. I did that for two weeks and to date have never been the same. I was seeking and asking to receive the Holy Spirit for a few weeks before I actually received.

Acts 1:4-5 (New King James Version)

The Holy Spirit Promised

⁴ And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me; ⁵ for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”

This is a command not a suggestion even though we treat it that way in today’s time. Jesus told his followers  before he ascended, that they should not do anything and wait for the promise of the Father (God). Do not try to help anybody without the helper to do it through you. Jesus goes on to give hope, you will get this gift not many days from now. With that last sentence his followers could have this hope I described earlier. They knew that Jesus did everything that he ever said, he was good for his word! They waited and they got their gift just as Jesus had promised and so will you.

Acts 1:8 (New King James Version)

8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

You need power to do the works “of God”. This power is just waiting to be given to you. If I can prove this to you in one sentence, would you believe to receive. Let me remind you that the Bible is 100% true and accurate and God always confirms HIS Word. Look at this with expectation and Joy…

Luke 11:13 (New King James Version)

¹³ If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”

Think about this some. Remember from earlier posts that I showed you from the word that we all fall short of the glory of God and we need Jesus (the only acceptable sacrifice) to meet Gods standards continually. So in this fallen condition, if you know how to give good gifts to your children (Xbox, Wii, autos, college= physical) how much MORE, how much MORE, HOW MUCH MORE will God give us (spiritual). God has promised to GIVE the Holy Spirit to those who ASK him. Remember, God will not let His Word return void, He will do what he says in His Word every time.

Matthew 7:7-9 (New King James Version)

   
⁷ “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. ⁸ For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. ⁹ Or what man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone?

If you look at my personal experience you will see that I really wanted this “power” to witness. I stayed up night after night reading about this supernatural experience that was available to all that ask. I asked other people in church about it. I listened to several cassettes of sermons on it (yes this was back when we had cassette tapes and no cd’s). I really wanted this gift and God delivered. I received just as He promised.

I said earlier that it took a couple weeks for me to receive, why? How bad do you really want something? If you really want something you will not stop until you get it. At times we are tested to see if our talk aligns with our true desires. I wanted my wife, I truly desired her and didn’t stop until I got her and it wasn’t easy.

Luke 4:14-18 (New King James Version)

Jesus Begins His Galilean Ministry

¹⁴ Then Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and news of Him went out through all the surrounding region. ¹⁵ And He taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all. ¹⁶ So He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read. ¹⁷ And He was handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the book, He found the place where it was written: 

       ¹⁸ “ The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me,
       Because He has anointed Me
      To preach the gospel to the poor;
      He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,
      To proclaim liberty to the captives
      And recovery of sight to the blind,
      To set at liberty those who are oppressed;

Again personally, I have layed hands on the sick and they have recovered. I have ministered to the broken hearted and they were healed. I have with clarity preached the acceptable year of the Lord to all who would listen and even to many who would not listen. I have casted out demons from people and set them free from all types of bondage’s.

All of these manifestations are a result of being directed and empowered by the same Spirit that Jesus had. Understand that man can not help man. What I am referring to is a change on the inside, an actual real change. Man can give you a hair cut or shave and change the outside, but this is temporal. In a couple weeks you look the same as you did before (on the inside you were the same the whole time no matter what someone did to the outside).

If you want to debate psychology (man helping man at its best) there is no internal change that comes from psychology. We are known as a coping society. We cope with our problems by medication, therapy, or just flat out suppression. Psychology works on the symptoms or results of the true problem but never eliminates the root. As long as the root is alive, the plant is going to grow again. God works from the inside out. God can and will pull the root out and give you a new existence if you believe in His sacrifice to justify you. Why put a band aid on your problem for you to just need another band aid. Get to the source and allow the true work of God to be done. Anyone yielding to the direction of the Holy Spirit will create miracles for others who believe. True changes of the heart will be done. 

I was promised the Holy Spirit if I would just wait to witness and ask to receive. I believed this so much that my actions aligned and God did His part as expected.

Life will never be the same for you or the people around you if you just take this step of faith and ask God to give you the gift of the Holy Spirit. How will you know when you have received? With  the evidence in speaking in other tongues.  I have given you some background into this supernatural experience. What would help you now would be to find a church that teaches and speaks of these things as I have described. You can also on this site go to- blogroll  and the link ”The Upper Room” find the sermon called “anointed“. This is a comprehensive teaching in this area and it is free, you can even download it and listen at your leisure…

Well, we have only scratched the surface of the Holy Spirit and there is a ton of enlightening things that will be presented to you in the upcoming posts. I pray that all who read these words are now “ready and willing to receive” the gift (costs nothing) God has for you. You will be able to make a real change in your community and in religious circles turn things upside down, just as Jesus did. Remember it is His Spirit and it will be His good works done in you and through you. Just ask him for it, He will be faithful and give it to you.

Much more to come…

We have come a long way in scripture and are now approaching the correct  way to continue your process with God by the instruction manual (Bible). You have been saved/born again into Christ Jesus, now what do you do? Continue to finish your processing…

Back in the early 80’s,  I went into the Marine Corps (Beirut bombing, Lebanon).  When I first arrived at Parris Island (back then called “Fantasy Island”) there were 3 days worth of processing. I needed to get all my documents legal and draw all the equipment necessary to be qualified for this “New Life” I was embarking on. Now these three days never ended, meaning we were kept up for 3 days straight going from station to station filling out forms. I was part of ”The few, the proud” a  successful process, they knew what they were doing. I had 15 1/2 weeks to look forward to extensive training in the ways of a combat disciplined soldier. If I didn’t meet the requirements at any level during this training program, they could process me out and claim that I was unfit for their elite program. More over, at any time during my tour if I did not follow the codes and conduct established, they could process me out and declare me unfit for their program.

This analogy should put things in the proper perspective when you are looking at your indoctrination into the Kingdom of Heaven. There is a process and then you need to learn what it takes to be a child of God and do it to continue to stay in this Kingdom. All to often we see many get away from the instruction manual and create their own rules to fit their own objectives. This would be unacceptable in the military resulting in a “bad conduct discharge”. Nothing is different in this situation except this is not a thing  that you want to be discharged from (life, future). Can you imagine being discharged from Life? It happens all the time. Anyone not believing and following the manual is considered unfit. You must follow the rules IF you want to stay in. So let me lead you into your next step,

I’ve Been Saved, Now What? 

Water Baptism (from the word of God)

   Mathew 28:19 (Great Commission)

Matthew 28:19 (New King James Version)

¹⁹ Go therefore^[a] and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

To start, did you notice that I said from the word of God? This is the most important thing you will ever need to remember, THE BIBLE IS THE INSTRUCTION MANUAL. Anything that you make up on your own is wrong and will be judged by God resulting in a discharge if not corrected.

Revelation 22:18-19 (New King James Version)

A Warning

   ¹⁸ For^[a] I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add^[b] to him the plagues that are written in this book; ¹⁹ and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away^[c] his part from the Book^[d] of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.

Water Baptism starts off as being called The Great Commission. 

Commission: The act of granting certain powers. The authority to carry out a particular task or duty.

So we have been granted certain or specific powers (very important to note, specific). You have the duty or responsibility and authority to carry out this particular duty. (Going back to my military analogy) I was instructed that whenever I was given an order, I am to follow that order out to the letter as I did not originate it. If you fail in your responsibilities, people will die.

If I am posted as a sentry and given orders to let no one pass without proper identification, if I deviate from this order, people are likely to die. Thinking of the Beirut bombing, everyone had trust in the sentry to fulfill his particular responsibilities, anything less resulted in loss of lives. Nothing is different in the Kingdom of Heaven. When you deviate from the commission you were given in the instruction manual, you have NO authority and are unfit for service as many people are going to die (spiritually). The Bible is important information from God starting at the first page to last page or God wouldn’t have put it in there. We can not blow off sections as ALL of Gods words are important. These are HIS  instructions to succeed HIS way and ultimately live in HIS house. If you can’t follow the Fathers rules, don’t expect to live in the Fathers house. I must add that if you don’t live in Gods house by default you end up in the devils house (there are no other choices).

2 Peter 3:16-17 (New King James Version)

¹⁶ as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures.
¹⁷ You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked;

You can see by Gods Word that people not following HIS instructions will do so unto their own destruction. Well what if someone is teaching error? It will be to their utter destruction along with all those that accept this wrong teaching. That’s why he goes on to say “Beware lest you lose your own way and be led away with error”. Led where? If you are not going to Heaven, there is only one other choice by default. HELL…

Please don’t blow this off, I am showing you Gods Word.  It is important or he would not give warnings. When has God not kept HIS Word? NEVER! God has always and will always keep HIS Word.. At Least I can say if you are reading this, you were warned with proper instruction.

Who needs Water Baptism: Everyone who has already been saved. Water baptism doesn’t save you. It contributes nothing toward your salvation, but is rather a sign to the world, church and ourselves that we have already been saved.

What for:  Signifies the death, burial and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. When he was water baptized by John, it signified what he would do to secure our salvation. We do it to openly show our death burial of the old life and us being resurrected into a new life paid for and given to us by Jesus the Christ. An outward sign of an inner change.

Where is it done:  Any location that supports full immersion, and witnesses.

When is it necessary:  As soon as possible. 

Why do you do Water Baptism:  Jesus set the example by being baptized in water which was Johns practice. John baptized everyone in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit and Jesus was no different. Jesus was water baptized to give man the example and to fulfill all righteousness. 

Matthew 3:13-15 (New King James Version)

John Baptizes Jesus

   
¹³ Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. ¹⁴ And John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?”
¹⁵ But Jesus answered and said to him, “Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed Him.

We likewise are to be baptized in water as a public statement to the world of our submission to God and our acceptance of Jesus Christ as Lord and savior of our life. 

Note that it represent our submission. If not done by Gods instructions then we did not submit to God. If you don’t submit to God then you do not belong to God. This ceremony is the great symbol that a person has given their heart and life to Jesus Christ. 

How is it done:  We are baptized in water by immersion (not sprinkling on the forehead). We go to the grave so to speak and resurrect up out in newness of life. Keep in mind that this newness of life was already given to you at the moment you accepted Jesus into your heart.  

Romans 6:4 (New King James Version)

⁴ Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

How did Jesus get baptized? (OUR PATTERN TO FOLLOW) Math 28:19 the great commission. Again……

Matthew 28:19 (New King James Version)

¹⁹ Go therefore^[a] and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

DISCIPLESHIP OF JESUS MAKES JESUS THE EXAMPLE (PATTERN) FOR US TO DUPLICATE.

As straight forward as the Word is here, you would think this is simple. It actually is simple if you submit your own will and do the will of the Father, which is a requirement to live in HIS house. Remember, if you can’t follow HIS orders given then you are considered “unfit” and will find yourself outside Gods will. Follow the instruction manual (Bible) and heed Gods warning not to be led away by mans divisive ways.

Once you have recieved the Baptism in water you have completed your initial process. Your next step will be to receive the Baptism in the Holy Spirit (another Baptism) which will give you POWER to be a witness for Jesus.

Next topic, The Holy Spirit.

Much more to come…

Last post we used opposites to crystallize Gods Word and get a better understanding of what God meant by what God said. The scriptures we looked at were very sobering and in your face, (we have a now, immediate God). Any time we look at any rule book it can be shocking as to our expectations to make changes immediately to be in compliance. Rules are designed to promote order, fairness and safety.

 However you want to sum it up, rules and regulations are what proper productive citizens follow, agreed…

We have a God (Father) that is specific. He knows exactly what he wants and is always conveying to man his standards and requirements. They are never hidden, man just is usually to busy to find out. I see some that are too proud to follow true anointed leaders of God and listen (their own pride exposes that they are not anointed and they covet) or just some that lack understanding as to what is needed. Lets look at some examples of how specific God is.

Exodus 12:20-22 (King James Version)

 ²⁰Ye shall eat nothing leavened; in all your habitations shall ye eat unleavened bread.

 ²¹Then Moses called for all the elders of Israel, and said unto them, Draw out and take you a lamb according to your families, and kill the passover.

 ²²And ye shall take a bunch of hyssop, and dip it in the blood that is in the bason, and strike the lintel and the two side posts with the blood that is in the bason; and none of you shall go out at the door of his house until the morning.

We see God is directing exactly what to eat to the leader and his family. We see God communicate through his chosen leader (who spoke to all the other leaders) to pick a particular lamb and sacrifice it. We even see God as descriptive to the type of bush to use “hyssop” to apply the blood and where to apply it. His final instruction is not to go out until the morning. This is the backdrop to the final plague of Egypt where the firstborn shall be killed. The angel of death shall pass through and kill EVERY firstborn male child, but for all those who have followed the specific instructions of God, all will not meet peril but be sparred! Quick thought- what do you think happened to everyone who did not listen to Gods chosen leader? (for what ever reason they can come up with).

Genesis 6:13-20 (New King James Version)

 The Ark Prepared

   
¹³ And God said to Noah, “The end of all flesh has come before Me, for the earth is filled with violence through them; and behold, I will destroy them with the earth. ¹⁴Make yourself an ark of gopher-wood; make rooms in the ark, and cover it inside and outside with pitch. ¹⁵ And this is how you shall make it: The length of the ark shall be three hundred cubits, its width fifty cubits, and its height thirty cubits. ¹⁶ You shall make a window for the ark, and you shall finish it to a cubit from above; and set the door of the ark in its side. You shall make it with lower, second, and third decks. ¹⁷And behold, I Myself am bringing flood-waters on the earth, to destroy from under heaven all flesh in which is the breath of life; everything that is on the earth shall die. ¹⁸ But I will establish My covenant with you; and you shall go into the ark—you, your sons, your wife, and your sons’ wives with you. ¹⁹ And of every living thing of all flesh you shall bring two of every sort into the ark, to keep them alive with you; they shall be male and female. ²⁰ Of the birds after their kind, of animals after their kind, and of every creeping thing of the earth after its kind, two of every kind will come to you to keep them alive.

Now talk about being specific! You will use a certain type of wood, why not pine or oak?  Why not use what we think is best? Because that’s it not what God said to do and he knows best!  We find so many churches operating this way, God says do it this way specifically, but man has chosen his own method. Man does not see the importance of doing things Gods way and man will suffer greatly because of it. This is a sign of immaturity, lack of respect and trust in Gods word and of reverence for God. I won’t belabor the point, but God goes on to give exact measurements to build this ark. Oh and for all that did not listen and scoffed at Noah it was God who closed the door to the ark. Noah was continually saying please listen, the flood is coming, judgement is coming. When God closes a door, no man can open it, he was tired of self pride, evil and rebellion. Genesis 7:¹⁶ So those that entered, male and female of all flesh, went in as God had commanded him; AND THE LORD SHUT HIM IN.

Exodus 40:2-17 (New King James Version)

² “On the first day of the first month you shall set up the tabernacle of the tent of meeting. ³ You shall put in it the ark of the Testimony, and partition off the ark with the veil. ⁴You shall bring in the table and arrange the things that are to be set in order on it; and you shall bring in the lamp-stand and light its lamps. ⁵ You shall also set the altar of gold for the incense before the ark of the Testimony, and put up the screen for the door of the tabernacle. ⁶ Then you shall set the altar of the burnt offering before the door of the tabernacle of the tent of meeting. ⁷And you shall set the laver between the tabernacle of meeting and the altar, and put water in it. ⁸ You shall set up the court all around, and hang up the screen at the court gate.
⁹ “And you shall take the anointing oil, and anoint the tabernacle and all that is in it; and you shall hallow it and all its utensils, and it shall be holy. ¹⁰ You shall anoint the altar of the burnt offering and all its utensils, and consecrate the altar. The altar shall be most holy. ¹¹And you shall anoint the laver and its base, and consecrate it.
¹² “Then you shall bring Aaron and his sons to the door of the tabernacle of meeting and wash them with water. ¹³ You shall put the holy garments on Aaron, and anoint him and consecrate him, that he may minister to Me as priest. ¹⁴ And you shall bring his sons and clothe them with tunics. ¹⁵ You shall anoint them, as you anointed their father, that they may minister to Me as priests; for their anointing shall surely be an everlasting priesthood throughout their generations.”
¹⁶ Thus Moses did; according to all that the LORD had commanded him, so he did.
¹⁷ And it came to pass in the first month of the second year, on the first day of the month, that the tabernacle was raised up.

The Tabernacle. this is a section that we could spend ten post on and still not get it all in. We will probably bounce back to it in future studies as it shows what God is looking for in his sacrifice specifically.  We see a great amount of detail given to Gods chosen leader and we see God choosing others as leaders now too. Moses didn’t get puffed up in pride and say only me Lord, he listened and did what was expected (as any good servant, soldier or friend would do). We see due to obedience, the Tabernacle being raised up just as God wanted. There is a lot of detail here (Two years to construct). If you ever side study and google tabernacle and see the great detail of things built for the outside and the detail for the things placed for within this structure, exactly as specified, it would astound you. Well over 50+ specific directions given to make this happen. Yet all true followers of God listen and follow.  Exodus 40:¹⁶ Thus Moses did; according to all that the LORD had commanded him, so he did.

 These are some examples of how specific our God is. He is ALWAYS specific. He knows exactly what he wants. If we could just do what ever we want why would he go out his way to leave an instruction manual and ministers to help you learn it.  Look at this:

Ephesians 4:11-15 (New King James Version)

¹¹ And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, ¹² for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, ¹³ till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; ¹⁴ that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, ¹⁵ but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ—

God has left you leadership to help guide you. You just have to point out the false from the true. He has communicated effectively to all his chosen leaders as to his specifications. He still communicates effectively to his leaders as to his specifications. What we see today is people not listening and disrespecting Gods elect. I personally have seen tremendous disrespect and Apostasy to Gods word and for his called Prophets and chosen leaders.

 We live in a society that says, ”How do we know you are sent of the Lord?” “Why should we listen to you?” We have our own freedoms”.  They said that to Noah, they said that to Jeremiah, they said that to Jesus!

God clearly tells us to check the fruit on the tree, and judge every spirit to see if it is of him. Another way is to see if a so called Pastor is reading and expounding (not interpreting) Gods word. Interpreting is having an opinion (what you think). Opinions are usually wrong (because it is generated by flawed man), remember Gods Word is always right (perfect) it does not need mans interpretation.

So you can start to spot false teachers by listening to what they teach. Are they teaching Gods word or are they making things up, doing what they interpret (what they think, not what the word says). It’s called adding or subtracting from the specific instructions given (I just showed you how specific God is). God even warns us of this practice in: 

Revelation 22:18-19 (New King James Version)

Who are these false teachers?

1 Timothy 1:7 (New King James Version)

⁷ desiring to be teachers of the law, understanding neither what they say nor the things which they affirm.

This is showing that they want the stage, light and offering plate but have no concept of what God has for them to do. They teach the law (self effort) and do it in forms of “Six things you need to do to overcome” or “Four ways to get what you want from god”. These methods and formats don’t work for the preacher and they won’t work for you. Beware of such Pastors which preach self effort.

God even takes it farther and explains who these false teachers will target.

Isaiah 28:9 (New King James Version)

⁹ “ Whom will he teach knowledge?
      And whom will he make to understand the message?
      Those just weaned from milk?
      Those just drawn from the breasts?

These false teachers establish churches that prey on the new converts. The ones that are just coming into the faith. These new converts know no scriptures whatsoever but are looking to be ”good” people. Most believe that if a man is standing at the pulpit he must be called of God and speaking his word. These false teachers will also do everything possible to get the experienced ministers out of their church (that will expose them) so that  they can continue to keep the self made image,  stage and light that God did not give them. Their authority does not come from God this is what makes them false.

Another thing to watch closely is entertainment in the Church. The Holy Spirit was not sent to entertain but to empower and deliver. How many shows did Jesus perform? How many “sets” did he do? I didn’t say how many miracles or teachings did Jesus perform. Under the topic of God being specific, entertainment in his house is something else to be suspect of. Anything other than truth in worship had Jesus turning over tables and chasing people out of his Fathers house.

Once you really start to follow Gods Word you will get discernment. Many of you have discerned already that I am sent of God and will not deviate from his Word. I have been called to bring truth to a rebellious generation. I have also been called to point out that which is not of God and is false. I don’t have to be liked to bring you the truth. You don’t have to like me to follow Gods Word either (you probably will though). If you see what is being said is true (the Bible) then it is wise to follow those instructions. Remember, it is not my instructions, I am just the messenger sent.

 It is very easy to see false teachers as you learn more of Gods word and less of mans opinion. Unfortunately we have a society more attached to people than truth. People develop loyalties to man and bypass the loyalty they are suppose to have to their Saviour. It is Jesus who said “I am the door” It it Jesus who says “I am the good shepherd” It is Jesus who says “I am the way, the truth and the life”. Your Pastor cannot get you into Heaven, Jesus can. A good Pastor will lead you to the source though. That is why this blog is designed specifically for those who want Gods Word which will lead to your freedom.

 Wow, that was a bunch of information to drop on you. All true but still a lot to absorb and understand. Let’s break here and pick up later.

More to come…

I am so proud of those of you who have hung in for this next post. I covered some areas that seemed to confuse many people. Remember I did say this (self effort) is a very misunderstood area in many Churches. What I will always present you is the Word of God, not my opinion. The Gospel is over 2000 years old yet as I present it, It may seem like some new information (many were confused, don’t churches teach this?). I will continue to show you the truth and try and slow down the topics so I can be more detailed.

 I want to use a scripture drill that will help understand and further our studies. This specific post will only be the drill. I call it opposites. In order to fully understand what God meant by what God said, it is helpful to look at a scripture and detail the opposite meaning. By looking at what the scripture doesn’t mean, it will crystallize exactly what the scripture does mean. Confused? You won’t be after our first example.

Romans 8:1 (New King James Version)

Free from Indwelling Sin

 ¹ There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus,^[a] who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.

Condemnation  means to be judged guilty, to convict, to sentence, to declare unfit for use.

So we see that there is no guilty judgment, no death sentence to those who are in Christ Jesus, Who walk not according to the flesh (self-effort) but according to the spirit (trusting in the deliverance we received from Jesus dieing on the cross).

The opposite meaning (wrong) of Romans 8:1 means- There is condemnation now,  there is a death sentence now, you are judged guilty now for those who are not in Christ Jesus. That’s  like living on death row. Who walk according to the flesh (or walk according to your self effort) not according to the spirit (not by the leading of the Holy Spirit).

Now do you see how explaining the opposite crystallizes the true word of God. It illuminates what God is really trying to say to us. This one scripture alone should clear up some of the confusion from last post. Without accepting Jesus you are condemned now as we speak. If you noticed the caption under the verse is called “Free from Indwelling Sin”, the opposite (wrong way) is “Not Free from Indwelling Sin”.

Lets look at another.

1 John 4:4 (New King James Version)

⁴ You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.

You see it clearly explained you are of God (if you are born again and received Jesus as your lord and saviour) , little children (Our Father will take care of us) who have overcome them (overcome satan, his plan and his helpers). HE WHO IS IN YOU (Jesus in your heart- the Holy Spirit leading) is GREATER than he who is in the world (satan).

The opposite meaning(wrong)- you are not of God because you are not born again, you did not receive Jesus as your Lord and Saviour. Therefore you have not overcome them (satan, his plan and his helpers). There is nothing in you (Jesus or the Holy Spirit leading) that is greater than he who is in the world (satan).

This again crystallizes the word of God and shows us how important it is to have Jesus in our life or we will not overcome satan and his plan for your life. I pray this is getting through to you. I am not making this stuff up as I go I am reading and explaining the word of God. what I am doing may happen rarely at many Churches so again this may seem like new information. Weather it be new or old information please remember that the Bible is 100% true and reliable, so if we read it, we should believe it (we talked about this before). Lets pick another.

Matthew 19:26 (New King James Version)

²⁶ But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

Jesus the son of God states “with men this is impossible but with GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE”.

So we are seeing that with just man things are impossible, but with God all things are possible.

Look at the opposite meaning (wrong) - Jesus the son of God states  ”with man it is possible, but with God nothing is possible”. Can you see how crazy this sounds. It should also show you how powerful you are with God on your side. You can do this with many of your favorite scriptures and it will help you truly see the word of God and the strength in what God has left us as instructions and promises.

Now the problem Adam faced in the Garden was not believing Gods word, let us not fall into the same category. If God said it, that settles it, you should believe it.  I didn’t say if Apostle Don said it I said If God said it. All I have done today is Show you the word of God- YOU SHOULD BELIEVE THE TRUTH.

I want to comment that this site is to bring people to the truth of Gods word. This site should be used for people wanting to gain knowledge of Gods Word and his ways. I have had several comments that have nothing to do with God or what we are discussing. I would ask in the name of Jesus that people respect this site and not use it for other purposes other than what it is intended for. For the true followers I pray this drill has empowered you through the Spirit which brings life and brings it more abundantly!

More to come:

What wonderful comments and suggestions I have received over the last month. I recognize that many are really starting to understand and receive blessings from the Lord and are looking forward to more enlightenment. As a reminder, under blogroll we have many links that you will benefit from tremendously and they are all free. Also, you can always leave any questions you have in the comment area or ask personally at bible-gateway@live.com.

Let’s move on with our studies.

The first step in the process of the five C’s of serving God is “Conviction“. Conviction can be summed up with one concept,  the state of being convinced. In relation to our topic it is the state of being convinced of your sin nature. That we inherently sin and fall short of the standards that God requires. That we within our own intelligence mess things up because we are not “all knowing” nor “all powerful”. This fact was proven throughout the entire old testament and is still current today. Not one person (except Jesus) was or is able to fulfill the 10 commandments (“the Law”‘) all day every day for your entire life. We all have to admit that not one person on this planet is perfect in any respect. Every person alive does something wrong in one way or another. To admit this limitation to yourself (in your heart) is the first step in serving God.

If you can agree with me on this issue, then you are already in a state of conviction. You are convinced by your own acknowledgement of this reality. If this is you, you are way ahead of many people today and should read intently as the solution to all your problems lie ahead.

On the other hand,  I have already blown out a few religions because they have a belief system that says a certain person or ranking in their Church is perfect. Based on the undeniable truth I just presented, how could you continue to live and support a lie?  How could you not be “in a state of being convinced?”

Let’s see what God has to say about all of this…

Romans 3:23 (New King James Version)

²³ for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God

Now regardless of what your religion tells you, God says that all have sinned and all do not meet the standard necessary to fellowship with him or live in His house. We are all flawed, He is perfect. Another way to look at this would be how we as parents look at the friends our kids have. We have raised our kids to have a certain type of standard and we expect them to have friends that live up to this standard. We all to often want to pick our childrens friends for them saying,  “what are you doing hanging around that person?” You see, that person does not meet the standard you set for your household and you do not want to lower your standards to just let anybody in. Jobs, clubs, colleges, fraternities, gangs, etc… are all the same.

Now keep in mind, conviction is the state of being convinced. To further show you conviction and show that God is righteous let’s look at some other examples.

Genesis 3:8-10 (New King James Version)

⁸ And they heard the sound of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God among the trees of the garden.
⁹ Then the LORD God called to Adam and said to him, “Where are you?”
¹⁰ So he said, “I heard Your voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; and I hid myself.”

We see Adam and Eve convicted of sin. God told them not to do something and they did it any way. As soon as they were confronted, they were in a state of being convinced. Convinced that they had done something wrong and did not want to face up to it. This state of denial separated them from God. Doesn’t this sound familiar? How many people do you wrong?  You know it, they know it, but instead of facing you they deny and hide. You may have done someone else wrong and RIGHT NOW  you are being convicted. . .  Don’t hide, the “good news” is that everyone falls short and God sent a solution for all of us so don’t beat yourself up too much (if you accept this solution).

Acts 2:36-37 (New King James Version)

³⁶ “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.”
³⁷ Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?”

Remember I just said “don’t beat yourself up too much”? A sharp feeling down within your being is normal when you are truly convicted. Some say “sorry” and should feel it. In this case Peter is talking to the very people that crucified Jesus the Messiah. They didn’t believe he was before, but are now “convinced” that he is.

Genesis 42:21-22 (New King James Version)

²¹ Then they said to one another, “We are truly guilty concerning our brother, for we saw the anguish of his soul when he pleaded with us, and we would not hear; therefore this distress has come upon us.”
²² And Reuben answered them, saying, “Did I not speak to you, saying, ‘Do not sin against the boy’; and you would not listen? Therefore behold, his blood is now required of us.”

This is a sharp example of conviction. We see Josephs brothers admit they are guilty. We see this sharp feeling down within and the fact that they are now feeling sorry for their act. Ultimately it is called exactly what it is, SIN.

In our day and age, the Holy Spirit will convict man of their sin by anointed Preachers. These are people (man or woman) that are filled with the Holy Spirit and allowing the Holy Spirit to control their direction. Understand that the Holy Spirit is Gods spirit on this earth. God knows everything and is perfect, therefore the Holy Spirit knows everything and is perfect. Having this Spirit empowering Preachers let’s the messages get to the heart of the congregation. If you ever get an opportunity to go to a Spirit filled church, you will notice that the message will touch on every-one’s problem within the service for those that are seeking truth (it will touch on those not seeking truth too!). The Holy Spirit will also give a solution which is why the Gospel of Jesus Christ is called the “Good News”.

On that last note, I challenge any reader seeking truth, to go to the “Upper Room” link under blogroll. Look at the titles… The area you have the most questions about, listen to that. The Holy Spirit will address your problem AND give you a solution that will solve the problem. Just have an open heart and open mind. All to often we only listen to Preachers that tell us what we want to hear and not exactly what is true. Truth will always be better for you even if it hurts at first. You have heard the saying “The truth shall set you free”.

Let’s summarize. The very first thing you need to do in order to serve God is be “convicted” of your sins. Until you recognize that you are flawed and need help you will not be humble thus unable to be used by God. Another way to look at this would be AA. They start you off by acknowledging that you are an alcoholic. The very first step to getting help and recovering is identifying where you really are. We are really a self centered, self preserving type, but God is a people serving, people preserving type. We need to live up to His standards so we can live with Him in harmony throughout His Kingdom.

This harmony (by meeting his standard) CAN NOT be done within your own effort though. You have the ability to live for you (self) but do not have the ability to live for him. This ability will be given to you by God through His Spirit (Grace). You don’t have to try, but you do have to believe. Isn’t that good news? What if it were based on singing, athletics, weight loss or looks? I’d miss it for sure (LOL!!!).

The “Good News” is that Gods standards, Gods Grace, Gods Kingdom is not based on our talents or abilities lest some of us couldn’t make it. It is based on what you believe and everyone has the ability to believe. The playing field is even for every one, we all have the same opportunity. We all can believe.

Let’s look at one complete story to crystallize this thought of “Conviction”.

John 8:2-9 (New King James Version)

² Now early^[a] in the morning He came again into the temple, and all the people came to Him; and He sat down and taught them. ³ Then the scribes and Pharisees brought to Him a woman caught in adultery. And when they had set her in the midst, ⁴ they said to Him, “Teacher, this woman was caught^[b] in adultery, in the very act. ⁵ Now Moses, in the law, commanded^[c] us that such should be stoned.^[d] But what do You say?”^{[e] 6} This they said, testing Him, that they might have something of which to accuse Him. But Jesus stooped down and wrote on the ground with His finger, as though He did not hear.^[f]
7 So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up^[g] and said to them, “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.” ⁸ And again He stooped down and wrote on the ground. ⁹ Then those who heard it, being convicted by their conscience,^[h] went out one by one, beginning with the oldest even to the last. And Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.

You can see that it took hearing first (which will be done by listening to the anointed preachers). Then they had to acknowledge within themselves where they actually stood in comparison to what was being said. Anyone who hears the word of God under the anointing of the Holy Spirit will be convicted because God searches the heart. Now conviction may be shown in several ways. In this passage they accepted it. I can list many passages where they do not accept and look to mock, beat, kill, deny, intimidate, ostracize and many other forms of rebellion. These actions are exhibited regularly and evident for all to see, especially to the anointed preachers.

The question will be to accept or reject… What is in your heart? 

One example is if it’s pride in your heart, you WILL reject. Anointed preaching exposes the condition of your heart. Is your heart soft (pliable) so it can be molded by God, or rock hard so God can’t make any changes? Your ACTIONS will show it no matter what you say. Even if I show you Gods word and simply explain, pride will not accept being wrong. Pride is a terrible condition of the heart to have and live, especially if you are a Pastor (leading others). Please remember that God searches the heart no matter what show you put on for others to see. You may fool man, but there is no fooling God!

Let me use a car for an example. Many cars look really good on the outside but have a bunch of problems on the inside. It is the inside that makes the car run, so no matter how good it looks on the outside, without the inside mechanically sound it may never take you anywhere.

Now before we buy this “good looking car”, let’s go to a mechanic and get it diagnosed (what is wrong with it). Now do you want this mechanic to tell you what you want to hear (main stream churches) or the truth (anointed churches)? Only the truth is going to really help you even if the mechanic says horrible things about this beautiful car.

Once you get this truth, NOW you can decide what to do. What if you reject the mechanics diagnosis because you think you know better even though you are not a mechanic. You will not do yourself any justice and ultimately be sorry for not listening. This is exactly what is happening when an ANOINTED preacher is talking to you. If you don’t just want to look good on the outside and want to fix what is really going to get you down the road then you will accept and make the recommended changes. If you are proud you will reject, deny and point to how good you look (even though you are close to breaking down on the inside). Let’s work on the inside, God has already paid the mechanic for you.

Well, if you are ready to start this new journey with the Holy Spirit, then conviction of sins is first, paramount and essential. Even as complex as we like to present ourselves to others, present yourself to God and recognize your simplicity and frailty. Recognize you have a sin nature and will inherently do things wrong regularly, great or small. Also recognize that God created a way for forgiveness and fellowship with him. When you do (humble yourself), you put yourself in position to live in Gods victory and service. 

Let’s move on to step two, Confession…

What must I do to be saved?

We just came out of extensive teaching on various topics and are heading into the Holy Spirit when God told me to “slow down”. “I want you to explain the process of what it takes to be saved by my Word“. This made me realize that there must be people out there that don’t know (by the instruction manual) what it means and the proper process. It also means that there will be people that read this post and actually get saved, preparing them for the future instructions that God will give by the leading of his Spirit. So this post will answer this question;

 What Must I Do To Be Saved?

Acts 16:25-31 (New King James Version)

The Philippian Jailer Saved

²⁵ But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. ²⁶ Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were loosed. ²⁷ And the keeper of the prison, awaking from sleep and seeing the prison doors open, supposing the prisoners had fled, drew his sword and was about to kill himself. ²⁸ But Paul called with a loud voice, saying, “Do yourself no harm, for we are all here.”
²⁹ Then he called for a light, ran in, and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. ³⁰ And he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”
³¹ So they said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.”

Now in this situation, we have the Apostle Paul and Silas in prison singing and praying to God. Understand that as a child of God Paul and Silas knew that they could still have Joy on the inside, despite the circumstances outside.  If I had to sell an idea or concept, how would this be? NO MATTER WHAT YOU ARE GOING THROUGH, AS LONG AS GOD IS YOUR FATHER YOU CAN BE ASSURED THAT EVERYTHING WILL BE JUST FINE. DON’T WORRY, DON’T STRESS, DON’T FEAR, YOUR FATHER (THE KING) IS ON THE WAY TO GET YOU OUT OF YOUR TROUBLE!  Not bad huh? That is exactly what is being offered today. What makes this a better deal (as if it weren’t already great) is it is free. What it becomes is a choice, do you want it or don’t you…

In verse 27 you see the prison guard thinking that he failed in his responsibilities and decided it is better to die than be killed or tortured later for loosing all of his prisoners. (There are many people today that feel this exact way. 60,000 people a day try to commit suicide in the world). He didn’t just loose those two, everyone was set free. Disgraceful for a Roman guard.  Before he could make the biggest mistake of his life Paul yells out to him, hey man we are all still here. Now that takes some real faith and trust in your Father not to just run off.

After the guard goes into the cells recognizing, these guys are backed by true power (earthquake, every prisoners chains fall off and the door is made open, immediately - message here) falls down to his knees and begs, what must I do to be saved? Remember Paul and Silas were in jail for spreading the very answer to this question an now the Roman guard wants it too.

Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ= believe that Jesus was the sacrifice necessary for you to live the righteous life. Believe what Jesus did at Calvary is all you need to do, no physical effort required. No matter who you are (even a Roman guard) it is available to all.

You will be saved, you and your household. This example can be traced back to the book of Exodus with Moses. The passover lambs blood would mark the door of the houses of all that believe (on the Lord) and the Angel of Death would have to pass by your door and not enter. Everyone on the inside of your house was safe. Do you notice that you are safe under the shed blood of Jesus, which this was an example of, if you believe his sacrifice covers you personally.

John 3:1-8 (New King James Version)

The New Birth

 ¹ There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. ² This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.”
³ Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
⁴ Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” d
⁵ Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. ⁶ That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. ⁷ Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ ⁸ The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.”

Nicodemus not understanding that Jesus is talking and representing spiritual things looks at his comments from a worldly position. How can a large man be re-born? Jesus is actually telling him and us that we must be reborn in spirit. This is done by accepting Jesus Christ into your heart by believing that his sacrifice paid your debt for sin. Once you do this, all your sins are forgiven and your “sin nature” no longer has dominion over you. God cleans out the sin and places in you HIS divine nature. Another way to describe this is to go from the “Law of sin and death” into the “Law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus”. You see if you are DEAD to sin (spiritually), if you are going to live there must be a birth to do so (spiritually). This is the meaning of born again.

Romans 3:23 (New King James Version)

²³ for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,

You are not the only one. All of us fall short on our own effort to meet the standards that God requires (The ten commandments). No matter what disciplines you have you will never be able to meet Gods standard on your own efforts.

Romans 6:23 (New King James Version)

²³ For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

The law of sin and death is what is inherent to us. So we start out in sin which leads to death or separation from God. God can not be around sin and dirtiness, it’s just not tolerated. So God provides a gift that can be found in Christ Jesus which is eternal life. Recognize without this gift, if you don’t open this present you by default get the booby prize of eternal death. By the way, how much does a gift cost? NOTHING… IT’S FREE.

2 Peter 3:9 (New King James Version)

⁹ The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us,^[a] not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.

 God is not wishy washy or forgetful. If HE makes you a promise HE will keep his promise! God is patient knowing who will accept him and be pliable so they can be used by him. It is not Gods intention that anyone should die, that’s why he made it a free gift. It actually says “not willing” so you go against his wishes if you do perish. It doesn’t require talents and abilities to be a child of God and receive eternal life. Notice a step to this new life, being born again, is repentance. I spent an entire post on this topic so if you are not sure what that means you can look it up. I will quickly say in order to repent, you must first acknowledge you are wrong and need a change.

John 3:16 (New King James Version)

¹⁶ For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

God instructs us to believe that the sacrifice of his son will allow you to live eternally. He loves us truly. Who do you know (including yourself) will put up their child’s life to save someone else that is guilty of a crime?

Break this down… Someone just robbed your house. In the process they killed your spouse and kidnapped your child for slavery. As you fall to your knees and answer the police officers questions, they find a clue. The person dropped their drivers license, great. The police rush over and recover your property and child (this still doesn’t address your spouse though). He is tried in the court and just when the judge is getting ready to say guilty send him to death row, you jump up and say wait your honor. I would like my only child to go to death row for this man so he can be free (sacrifice).  Now this child is innocent of any of the crimes committed but the judge says as long as the penalty is fulfilled that will be fine, let the man go. That is what Jesus has done for us. We are the robber, he is the innocent child. We walk free, he goes to death row and is sacrificed for our indiscretions. That’s really an example of what happened. So God loves us to allow this to take place.

Romans 10:9-10 (New King James Version)

⁹ that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. ¹⁰ For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

If you will take a stand for Jesus, you will have no problem confessing with your mouth. If you have a spouse, you were married and took a stand in front of others and declared your love and allegiance for this person openly. If you have a favorite sport team (loyalty), I am sure you are not quiet about your belief in them.

verse 10- from deep down inside you must believe Jesus Christ died for your sins and is your saviour and vocalize it. This is what makes you in right standing with God. Once you are in right standing with God you are offered salvation. Salvation is protection, deliverance and preservation. Everything you need to live correctly is found at and through the cross. When Jesus said “it is finished” (completed) everything that can separate you from God was destroyed and our sins were paid for. This is only for those who believe though.

If you understand what scriptures I have presented and want this free gift, it is offered below. I suggest you take a moment and take a self assessment of your life. Allow God to show you your shortcomings, maybe you lie, steal or cheat. Maybe you were abused as a child and that holds you back from having true solid relationships. Maybe you just didn’t realize that this opportunity was available and that you are truly loved. Search your heart for what needs to be cleaned out and taken away…… Look forward to your freedom after we pray. Are you ready?

Now Pray with me and receive your assurance

DEAR GOD IN HEAVEN, YOU KNOW THE TRUTH ABOUT ME,

I COME TO YOU TODAY AS A LOST SINNER.

I AM ASKING YOU TO SAVE MY SOUL AND CLEANSE ME OF ALL SIN.

I REALIZE IN MY HEART I NEED SALVATION, WHICH CAN ONLY COME FROM JESUS THE CHRIST.

I AM ACCEPTING CHRIST INTO MY HEART FOR WHAT HE HAD DONE FOR ME AT THE CROSS-TO PAY FOR MY REDEMPTION.

I CONFESS WITH MY MOUTH “JESUS CHRIST IS LORD” AND BELIEVE IN MY HEART THAT GOD RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD.

YOU SAID IN YOUR WORD THAT WHOSOEVER SHALL CALL UPON THE NAME OF THE LORD SHALL BE SAVED.

I HAVE DONE SO ACCORDING TO YOUR WORD AND BELIEVE THAT RIGHT NOW “I AM SAVED”

Well Praise God, you are saved! Salvation means to be protected by God, preserved by God and delivered by God. They all belong to you now, all you ever need to do is keep looking to cross of Calvary where Jesus paid the debt for you. You are free of all unrighteousness and fit to spend an eternity with God himself.

(God Says) Welcome into my Kingdom

Congratulations! You made the most important choice of your life (literally). Every prisoner of the (Kingdom of darkness) sin nature, the chains just fell off and the door is made open (immediately) because you are now free. Walk out in newness of life in Christ.

2 Corinthians 5:17 (New King James Version)

¹⁷ Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

Continue to stay with me in my posts to come and learn how to keep this experience fresh everyday (santification).

Much more to come…

Have you taken a proper assessment of yourself according to the scriptures yet? Then I am sure you are humble. If you are chosen and are not hunmble yet then God will help you out. Understand that God helping you become humble may sound great, but it is always better to get it right before God has to step in.

Let’s look at our kids for instance. If you tell your child ”clean your room” and they ignore you for what ever reason, it doesn’t change that you want their room cleaned. So most of us give second chances and third chances but then there does comes a time when the chances are done! I TOLD YOU TO CLEAN YOUR ROOM, NOW I’M GOING TO HELP YOU. Do you see the inference I am getting to.

In my child hood my mother would come in and empty every draw into the center of the room. She would pull everything out of the closet and throw it in to the center of the room. She would strip the sheets from my bed and throw it where? In the center of the room. So I would have NO CHOICE but to clean my room and put everything back neatly. On  my first go round with her I decided I would give a half effort and show her. She came in and inspected, noticed the lack luster effort and dumped everything in to the center of the room again. START OVER.

So I learned through hardship  to listen and do it right the first time until I learned just to keep my room clean so I wouldn’t have to get a warning from her at all. I became mature in this area to her standards. Remember it was her house, thus her rules. We all want to live in Gods house, (we are his children) thus it will be Gods rules. Let’s take a look at how God involves himself with us to make sure we are Humble (that way we can be a light unto a dark world).

 Afflictions

a state of pain, distress, or grief; misery

Deuteronomy 8:3 (New King James Version)

 3So He humbled you, allowed you to hunger, and fed you with manna which you did not know nor did your fathers know, that He might make you know that man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the LORD.

We see God purposefully allowing us to hunger but it is to bring us to the maturity that we don’t look to feed the flesh only. What he really did was change their diet, he still fed them. We must also feed and be led by his Spirit and learn to live by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord. He has promises in his word that we can hold to if we believe Him.

example:  Psalm 103:1-5 (New King James Version)

 ¹ Bless the LORD, O my soul;
         And all that is within me, bless His holy name!
 ² Bless the LORD, O my soul,
         And forget not all His benefits:
 ³ Who forgives all your iniquities,
         Who heals all your diseases,
 ⁴ Who redeems your life from destruction,
         Who crowns you with loving kindness and tender mercies,
 ⁵ Who satisfies your mouth with good things,
         So that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

Now that is something to live by. The million dollar question is, DO YOU BELIEVE EVERY WORD THAT PROCEEDS FROM THE MOUTH OF GOD? Remember from our earliest posts we established that the Bible is 100% true. I told you that I would keep reminding you of this and if you waver in this area it will affect your faith.

        Impending Doom

menacing a judgment, decision, or sentence, esp. an unfavorable onefavorable one 

2 Chronicles 12:5-12 (New King James Version)

⁵Then Shemaiah the prophet came to Rehoboam and the leaders of Judah, who were gathered together in Jerusalem because of Shishak, and said to them, “Thus says the LORD: ‘You have forsaken Me, and therefore I also have left you in the hand of Shishak.’”
⁶ So the leaders of Israel and the king humbled themselves; and they said, “The LORD is righteous.”
⁷Now when the LORD saw that they humbled themselves, the word of the LORD came to Shemaiah, saying, “They have humbled themselves; thereforeI will not destroy them, but I will grant them some deliverance. My wrath shall not be poured out on Jerusalem by the hand of Shishak. ⁸ Nevertheless they will be his servants, that they may distinguish My service from the service of the kingdoms of the nations.”
⁹So Shishak king of Egypt came up against Jerusalem, and took away the treasures of the house of the LORD and the treasures of the king’s house; he took everything. He also carried away the gold shields which Solomon had made. ¹⁰Then King Rehoboam made bronze shields in their place, and committed them to the hands of the captains of the guard, who guarded the doorway of the king’s house. ¹¹ And whenever the king entered the house of the LORD, the guard would go and bring them out; then they would take them back into the guardroom. ¹² When he humbled himself, the wrath of the LORD turned from him, so as not to destroy him completely; and things also went well in Judah.

You see God here saying, well if you don’t want me, then I don’t owe you anything. Have you ever found yourself in that situation with someone? You were helping them out then all of a sudden they don’t want to listen to you or have anything to do with you. It has happen to me plenty of times especially when you lend someone money! You know that without them in your life you will be just fine, remember they needed your help but now they have arrived so forget you. They almost despise the fact that they needed your help and want to find a way to erase that AFTER they are on their feet (they think : – )

Verse 8 God goes on to accept the fact that they have repented and recognized they really do need him. However he did make an example for them never to forget by not putting them back in the exact same position they were in before they turned their back on him. God decides to let them become servants instead of being free. We do similar when someone comes back into our life after turning their back on us and we were the helper, they needed us. However we usually don’t allow them to be as close as before or we are on guard for the betrayal again so they are never put back in the same position in our life as before.

        Submissiveness 

inclined or ready to submit; unresistingly or humbly obedient

Luke 10:39 (New King James Version)

³⁹ And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’^[a] feet and heard His word.

Mary showed a tremendous amount of respect by doing this, so part of submission involves respect. Notice in the definition that humbly is used. That is ultimately the maturity that we are heading to. To be humble and submit to the will of God. Let Gods perfect will be done in your life. Remember God is Holy, God is Righteous, so if you are doing what he wants then people will see holiness and righteousness in you. Keep in mind it must be HIS righteousness done in our life not our own works or self effort.

      Christs example

Deliverer, Good Shepherd; a pattern or model, as of something to be imitated

Philippians 2:4-8 (New King James Version)

⁴ Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.  
⁵ Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, ⁶ who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, ⁷but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bond servant, and coming in the likeness of men. ⁸ And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.

Jesus is our example even by definition. We should duplicate his pattern. This will be done with the leading of the Holy Spirit in your life. Jesus said he would send a helper, a comforter. When we are empowered by the Holy Spirit we will emulate the works of Jesus by his power. We will lead people to deliverance and lead them to the good shepherds.

Verse 4 sums up how humbleness can be activated. What if everyone looked out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. fortunately the group of Ministers that I run with, that is exactly what we do. But we don’t do it because we are trying, we do it because we are filled with the Holy Spirit with evidence of speaking in tongues and also signs following (deliverances, healings). When Jesus is in your heart this action is just a by product or result of walking in the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-25). The claims that I am making will need to be explained in greater detail so I need to create a new post and give you scriptures to expound on… Quickly

Galatians 5:22-25 (New King James Version)

²²But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ²³ gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. ²⁴ And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. ²⁵ If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

I don’t want to get off track so let me finish this post on being humble and we will move into the Holy Spirit for our next Post.

Humble = not proud or arrogant; modest: to be humble although successful. We spent the entire last post talking about this scripturally.

Humility = the quality or condition of being humble; modest opinion or estimate of one’s own importance, rank. Going back to Philippians 2:4-8 Jesus our example lowered himself to be obedient to the Fathers will. Depending on your purpose on this planet this may be a necessary change for your life. It was for me.

Humiliated = to cause (a person) a painful loss of pride, self-respect, or dignity. Interestingly enough, this word has the same root. But who wants to volunteer to be humiliated? If it leads to you being humble (so you can be used by God) then it will be the best thing that ever happened to you even though it will bruise your reputation (or what you want others to think of you). Once you lose reputation it creates a void that character can fill (who you really are) Praise God!

A personal example of my road to becoming humble started with me being humiliated. I was accustomed to having money and lavish jewelry and cars. I also knew God was calling me to do his work but I was running from him and that responsibility. I had a great life I thought why do I need him. God put me in a situation where he took away all my money and left me without work for over 9 months. My life was built on sand , not the Rock (I’ll explain that in the future as well). Keep in mind I have a family that is counting on me.

As I rolled through my savings knowing that something would happen soon (on my own efforts) it didn’t. I finally broke down and found myself at a church service and all I had in my pocket was $1.00 and $.01 and God told me to give it all (like the Church needed that…). As I tried to just toss it in the basket with no one noticing God told me to get an offering envelope and fill it out. I had to obey my Father so I did. I was totally humiliated to put my name down (the Big shot known for giving generously) and my address and phone # with that type of contribution. What would people think of me? How embarrassing!

Actually the opposite happened. Once the Church recognized that I was hurting they immediately started working together in prayer to get me out of financial bondage. Did you notice that I did not say, they started giving me money? What I needed was from God not man. I also didn’t have to keep up the charade of being rich as everyone had known me to be. How freeing it was to be able to take the mask off and just be me. I was set free and that was my start to God really using me to help others under the power and direction of the Holy Spirit.

If you are being called by God because you were chosen, don’t wait for God to help you become humble (that may lead to humiliation). Learn from my example and make the necessary changes before he does it for you. This post is not by accident and someone reading  this is not by accident. Submit and sit at the feet of Jesus.

We will get in to the Holy Spirit next.

So- More to come…

Oh I so badly wanted to get this post out last week but can not rush the Holy Spirit. Everything is done in Gods perfect timing. I am very proud of those that are sticking to the post, it’s like taking a college course. We are covering a lot of scriptures so I hope you are starting to see  internal  growth. The truth of Gods word and you believing it will always change the inside, (self effort works on the outside). Knowing who you really are in Christ and all the promises that are 100% dependable.  Anyone who sticks to, believes and applies Gods word will live in victory.

 Our last post showed you how Jesus is in every book of the bible. I will have to admit to you that I was being very broad with my list. A quick example of how detailed we could get in this study is the book of Genesis. I showed you the obvious “Jesus is represented as the Seed of the Women”. We can also see Jesus in an event after God making that statement to Eve. God killed an innocent animal to cover mans sin and shame. That’s another example of Jesus and what he has done for us at Calvary. He was the innocent lamb of God that was sacrificed to cover mans sin and shame.

So you see Jesus is all through the bible in many, many facets. With the help of the true teacher (the Holy Spirit) he will reveal these things to you. As you recognize that it is JESUS, JESUS, JESUS and not self effort.

We are going to use this post to talk about being humble. Being humble (or making a proper assessment of ourselves according to the word) will put you in a position that God can use you. Obviously if you already know everything, then there is nothing to learn (absorb). A full sponge does not pick up more it actually starts to loose what it has.

Being Humble

I mean the biblical true type of humble. I am not talking about putting yourself down or potential poverty vows etc… Boy the Church has really run the gamut when it comes to this topic. What I am going to do is walk you through the scripture to show you what God determines as humble and how you can live that humble life (by the scriptures not my opinion or religion- Gods way). That is the only way we should want to do things anyway, Gods way. In a nut shell, that is the problem, follow mans unproven ideas or follow Gods way which has NEVER failed!

To be humble, you must recognize within yourself…

List: Your sinfulness, You are unworthy, You have limitations, you fall short of Gods Holiness. and we all fall short of Gods rightoeusness.

Your sinfulness 

Luke 18:11-14 (New King James Version)

¹¹ The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other men—extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. ¹² I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.’ ¹³ And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ ¹⁴ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

A true assessment of self was done by the tax collector (a legal crook). A self righteous assessment was done by the Pharisee (church member). Look at all the good work he was doing (out of self effort) that God did not accept. You must admit, just reading it makes you not like what was said and meant too. Basically, I thank you God that I am better than everyone else. Remember we covered this ego and pride issue in a previous post and again it usually comes from the church goer (the higher the position the higher the pride). Now I hope people understand that I am making a blanket statement and this does not mean all church goers, Elders, Pastors etc… are like this. If we are just honest within ourselves, you can not deny, outside of Christ, I AM A SINNER.

You are unworthy  

Luke 15:17-21 (New King James Version)

¹⁷ “But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! ¹⁸ I will arise and go to my father, and will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you, ¹⁹ and I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired servants.”’
²⁰ “And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. ²¹ And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.’

Again, a real assessment of self coming from someone who has run out and found out that the world has nothing to offer. This story also shows it is never too late to REPENT and come home. Our father is merciful and long-suffering. When you are loved it is never too late to come home, especially when you have the right attitude, ”I am sorry and won’t do that again”.

This man has recognized I am not worthy of anything from such a rich father. He had run off and turned his back on his father many years ago. He also puts himself in a position that we should all learn from. He asked to please allow him to just be a servant in his house. What if we all approached God like this I am unworthy but please just let me be a servant in your house. That is being Humble by Gods standards. As a servant in Gods kingdom will be better off than living in the world and depending on self to eventually live in a house of torment all the day long.        

You have limitations 

1 Kings 3:6-14 (New King James Version)

⁶ And Solomon said: “You have shown great mercy to Your servant David my father, because he walked before You in truth, in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with You; You have continued this great kindness for him, and You have given him a son to sit on his throne, as it is this day. ⁷ Now, O LORD my God, You have made Your servant king instead of my father David, but I am a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in. ⁸ And Your servant is in the midst of Your people whom You have chosen, a great people, too numerous to be numbered or counted. ⁹ Therefore give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?”
¹⁰ The speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. ¹¹ Then God said to him: “Because you have asked this thing, and have not asked long life for yourself, nor have asked riches for yourself, nor have asked the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern justice, ¹² behold, I have done according to your words; see, I have given you a wise and understanding heart, so that there has not been anyone like you before you, nor shall any like you arise after you. ¹³ And I have also given you what you have not asked: both riches and honor, so that there shall not be anyone like you among the kings all your days. ¹⁴ So if you walk in My ways, to keep My statutes and My commandments, as your father David walked, then I will lengthen your days.”

We are not omnipotent. We have limitations. We don’t know what is going to happen tomorrow, most of us don’t remember what we did last year this very minuet. God does not have those limits. He knows what will happen for us tomorrow what decisions we will make and certainly has been keeping track of every idle word. He can tell us what we did and said last year at this very minuet.

Do you notice in verse #7 Solomon says I am a servant and I am like a child (true humility- true assessment of who he really was in God eyes and the way he saw himself). He continues in the 9th verse to say “what man” could have the knowledge to judge this great number of people fairly. Without Gods power man is grossly limited, this great King understood this. Do you understand that you are limited, but with the help of the Holy Spirit those boundaries are removed.

You fall short of Gods Holiness  

Isaiah 6:1-8 (New King James Version)

 ¹In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lifted up, and the train of His robe filled the temple. ²Above it stood seraphim; each one had six wings: with two he covered his face, with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. ³ And one cried to another and said: ⁴ And the posts of the door were shaken by the voice of him who cried out, and the house was filled with smoke.
⁵ So I said: 

      “ Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts;
      The whole earth is full of His glory!”

      “ 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.”

⁶Then one of the seraphim flew to me, having in his hand a live coal which he had taken with the tongs from the altar. ⁷And he touched my mouth with it, and said:

      “ Behold, this has touched your lips;
      Your iniquity is taken away,
      And your sin purged.”

⁸ Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying:

      “ Whom shall I send,
      And who will go for Us?”

Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.”

Imagine the Angels description. It boggles the mind at what this type of Angel looks like that God created. Now God created us in his image, but he created so much more, all having a function. What is your function?…

Again, we see another man look at himself and compare himself to greatness and perfection. He recognizes that compared to God he is not fit and clearly feels dirty. It may boost your ego to be the big shot at work or have the nicest house in your neighborhood. Remember there are always bigger bosses and nicer neighborhoods. Compared to your neighbors you may be doing great but compare yourself to Jesus and give yourself a proper assessment of who you really are. It’s not all about money folks. There are people who make millions and are miserable some even commit suicide. So if money and big houses was the answer why would that happen?

God is Holy. God is perfect. God is merciful. God is gracious. I can go on and on about God being Holy. I want you to notice that at the end of this verse here is another man touched by the presence of God that responds with a servants attitude. You CAN be used by God, just start making the proper assessment of yourself. If you take to heart what you are reading, you will naturally become Humble.

You fall short of Gods righteousness 

Philippians 3:4-10 (New King James Version)

⁴ though I also might have confidence in the flesh. If anyone else thinks he may have confidence in the flesh, I more so: ⁵ circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; concerning the law, a Pharisee; ⁶ concerning zeal, persecuting the church; concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.
⁷ But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. ⁸ Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ ⁹ and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith;

Here Paul is explaining that if there was anyone qualified superficially, he would be the one. He basically lists his credentials that could not be disputed or topped by any other man at that time. Yet he explains to all that will listen,  all that self improvement and high self stature (through his self effort) he considered it trash and trades it gladly for the life that he now finds in Christ Jesus.

Paul says to be found in him (Christ) not having a holiness of my own effort or trying to be good (follow the law). But having a holiness and right standing with God that is given to him (and anyone following this pattern, you are made good by believing) by believing in the shed blood of Jesus who died on the cross at Calvary. The sacrificial Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world. When Jesus said “it is finished” God accepted this final sacrifice for all mankind and the Veil was torn! We now have access to our Father directly through his son Jesus shed blood.

Let us not forget within our faith Jesus rose from the dead (the temple was rebuilt in 3 days) and is living and sits at the right hand of the Father right now as we speak. Jesus lives and is ready and willing to live in your heart today, right now, DO YOU BELIEVE?…

There is a Peace and Joy that comes from having Jesus as your Lord and Saviour and becoming a servant. Walking with Jesus as he becomes your best friend and being led by his Spirit. Being able to count on God as your provider. As you continue daily to recognize that all circumstances that will keep you from having a great fellowship and relationship with the Father was already taken care of for you. The price for your freedom has already been paid.

Learning how to deny our own self effort when we have been raised and taught to do for self all our life may be harder than I make it sound. To start,  make a proper assessment of yourself based on these scriptures and examples that were given.

God has his way of making his children humble. Once you learn  (recognize) how God operates, it makes the process so much easier. Our follow up post will have how God operates to get his chosen to be humble.

Much More to come:

Well we just came out of an enlightening subject of a Heaven to gain and a Hell to shun. Be for real Apostle, Paradise in Hell? You read it all with scripture to back it. I hope the true word of God continues to bring you subjects that will keep you studying and keep you realizing that the truth is not being taught at large in the main stream church world. You must ask yourself, why are these topics so foreign to me. Seems like after all the perfect attendance I have had I would have heard that one. We are in a certain time frame in bible history that explains that this is exactly how it is going to be. Be ever so thankful that you found this site and the truth as the main stream churches continue to move in the direction of Apostasy.

Remember under “Blogroll” you can download and listen to anointed sermons from the “Upper Room” and “Worry Free”.

I must re-send most people back to the post on Why Repent? Most were not aware of how Hell is broken down and how it fits into the scriptures let alone in to the life of a “Christian”. The Bible (The instruction manual) has it all in there.

Remember we all fall short of the glory of God but that is why he sent his son to die for us. Jesus died so that we could now count on him and not ourselves. It is his sacrifice (shed blood) that atones for our shortcomings. That is re-establishing the parameters of the Garden of Eden isn’t it? We can have fellowship with God and count on him to take care of us; we don’t have to depend on self anymore.  We need to depend on the complete finished work of Jesus at the cross (which is Faith), hallelujah!

The Bible is all about Jesus, through and through. He is pictured or mentioned in each of the 66 books (most times you need to look spiritually) as well as in countless types in the lives of different characters in the Bible. Here is a breakdown of how he is pictured in each of the books…

With this break down it should make you focus on how important Jesus is. It should open every story in the bible to show you how Jesus was always the plan. He is everything! People love God true, and the Holy Spirit gets the job done because of the finished work at Calvary. The bible shows us the King of Kings and Lord of Lords over and over again in all his facets. Depend on Jesus and you will have Gods favor and the Holy Spirits miracle working ability available.

More to come…

Repenting doesn’t seem to be the popular topic. Re-read that post though, it is still necessary and true. Here are more Bible truths that are not usually explained, but are necessary for you to know. I suspect a majority of our readers are not planning on living in hell, but let me explain what Jesus got you out of (if you believe in his sacrificial blood for your life). 

                          Five Parts of Hell

 I will quickly list them then explain. Paradise, Hades, Tartarus, Bottomless pit and lake of fire.

Yes, there is a place in Hell called Paradise. This is a location that people like Moses and Abraham and David went while they were waiting for the Lamb of God to set them free. Jesus has come and sacrificed his life so that we could live eternally with God. Paradise (that part of Hell) is now empty, Let’s look at a few scriptures to bring out this reality.

Paradise-

Luke 23:40-43 (New King James Version)

⁴⁰ But the other, answering (robber on the other cross), rebuked him, (the other robber) saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? ⁴¹ And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” ⁴² Then he said to Jesus, “Lord,^[a] remember me when you come into your kingdom.”
⁴³ And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”

This “paradise” was a section in Hell where there were comforts that are not available to the section actually known as Hades (The Hell people recognize). Lets look at the scripture of Lazarus and the Rich man. It explains this “paradise” so well.

Luke 16:19-31 (New King James Version)

¹⁹ “There was a certain rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and fared sumptuously every day. ²⁰ But there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, full of sores, who was laid at his gate, ²¹ desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell^[a] from the rich man’s table. Moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. ²² So it was that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man also died and was buried. ²³ And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
²⁴ “Then he cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.’ ²⁵ But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented. ²⁶ And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.’
²⁷ “Then he said, ‘I beg you therefore, father, that you would send him to my father’s house, ²⁸ for I have five brothers, that he may testify to them, lest they also come to this place of torment.’ ²⁹ Abraham said to him, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.’ ³⁰ And he said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ ³¹ But he said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.’”

We can see that the rich man went to Hades (Hell). He goes out his way to ask Abraham to let Lazarus just dip the tip of his finger in water to cool his tongue for he is tormented in flames (water is not available). We also see the beggar resting in Abraham’s bosom and water is available. It is obvious that there is a section set for those with faith and those who loved and obeyed God being taken care of. There is also a section for those who died deceived and disobedient to Gods word and walked in their on lusts and unbelief.

So there is a great gulf that you can see to the other side but you cannot pass over. How would it feel to be tormented in flames but look over and see a group of people (some you probably laughed at) being comforted and taken care of?

Obviously you can hear each other through the conversations that were held. We also see how important REPENT is. This man begs please go to my five brothers so they don’t end up in this place that I will NEVER leave, tormented all the day long.

An important answer was given. The rich man was told YOU HAVE MOSES AND THE REST OF THE PROPHETS AND THEY WILL NOT HEAR THEM. This is saying the same thing for us today. We have people called of God with authority telling you the truth. Why do you need a special invitation from an Angelic being when you have a Prophet right down the street preaching the truth? Sadly enough many will scoff at our teachings. What more sense can the word make to you? Does begging you to follow the scriptures change your direction? No – either you hear the call and respond or ignore it. My job is to spread the truth, it is the Holy Spirits job to convict the reader. I would hope EVERY reader receive this. There is a Heaven to gain and a Hell to shun.

Ephesians 4:9-10 (New King James Version)

 ⁹ (Now this, “He ascended”—what does it mean but that He also first^[a] descended into the lower parts of the earth? ¹⁰ He who descended is also the One who ascended far above all the heavens, that He might fill all things.)

We see Jesus first descending to the lower parts of the earth (Hell/Paradise- releasing all those that believed he would come Noah, David, Moses etc…) before walking the earth proving to all that he does live (the temple was rebuilt in 3 days). Then ascending right before their eyes.

1 Peter 3:18-19 (New King James Version)

¹⁸ For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us^[a] to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit, ¹⁹ by whom also He went and preached to the spirits in prison,

We know that when Jesus was in Hell “Paradise”, he had opportunity to preach to those who were waiting on him (like Noah etc…) but also had a time to preach a storm to all the unbelievers that I am come and the kingdom of God is at hand, JUST AS PROPHECIED. What a depressing day this must have been for the devil and all those who were tricked into this eternal hell. Remember conversation could be heard, but you could not travel across the great gulf. One type of person is stuck on one side until the lake of fire, and the other type were released in 3 days to follow Jesus walking the earth and then eventually following Jesus into the heavenlies. What Victory.

 Hades- burning fire, for people to be tormented (see above Luke 16:27)

Revelation 1:18 (New King James Version)

¹⁸ I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.

Jesus here has taken the power away from death and hades. Death where is thy sting? For those who allow Jesus to be their perfect sacrifice “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord”. AMEN

Revelation 20:14 (New King James Version)

¹⁴ Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death

As stated earlier, the people in the Hades side of hell have one future waiting for them. It is sobering to think that it is called the second death! Not the kind of future you would want for yourself or your children.

Tartarus – for fallen angels

2 Peter 2:4 (New International Version)

 ⁴For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell,^[a] putting them into gloomy dungeons^[b] to be held for judgment;

God has a timing for the release of these chained fallen angels. Fallen angels are of the kind that listened to Satan and followed him out of heaven. They all have a purpose that will do evil that works toward Gods favor.

Bottomless pit- interim jail for demons

Revelation 9:1-2 (New King James Version)

Fifth Trumpet: The Locusts from the Bottomless Pit

 ¹ Then the fifth angel sounded: And I saw a star fallen from heaven to the earth. To him was given the key to the bottomless pit. ² And he opened the bottomless pit, and smoke arose out of the pit like the smoke of a great furnace. So the sun and the air were darkened because of the smoke of the pit.

Revelation 9:11 (New King James Version)

¹¹ And they had as king over them the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in Hebrew is Abaddon, but in Greek he has the name Apollyon.

Revelation 17:8 (New King James Version)

⁸ The beast that you saw was, and is not, and will ascend out of the bottomless pit and go to perdition. And those who dwell on the earth will marvel, whose names are not written in the Book of Life from the foundation of the world, when they see the beast that was, and is not, and yet is.^[a]

Revelation 20:1-3 (New King James Version)

Satan Bound 1000 Years

 ¹ Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, having the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. ² He laid hold of the dragon, that serpent of old, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years; ³ and he cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal on him, so that he should deceive the nations no more till the thousand years were finished. But after these things he must be released for a little while.

Powerful evil will be released in Gods timing from this pit. Notice God is always in control! All the evil that is done is all done under Gods supervision and permission. Everything will work to the good for those who love God and are called according to his good purpose.

Lake of fire- final judgment, resting place for the unfaithful

Revelation 20:14-15 (New King James Version)

¹⁴ Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.^{[a] 15} And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.

 There are many more scriptures that descript these locations. I am trying to give you the broad outlook. Those that enjoy studying the word will take this much deeper and discover much more as to what was explained. I personally don’t plan on spending an eternity in any of these places but it is important for you to be revealed to the entire information of the bible…  However the Good news is:

Paradise of God- this is the paradise people usually think of and recognize

 Revelation 2:7 (New King James Version)

⁷ “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God.”’

Revelation 12:11 (New King James Version)

¹¹ And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death

Those who overcome will live in the Paradise of God and we shall eat from the tree of Life.

2 Corinthians 12:1-4 (New King James Version)

The Vision of Paradise

 ¹ It is doubtless^[a] not profitable for me to boast. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord: ² I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago—whether in the body I do not know, or whether out of the body I do not know, God knows—such a one was caught up to the third heaven. ³ And I know such a man—whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows— ⁴ how he was caught up into Paradise and heard inexpressible words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.

Caught up into Paradise. This clearly shows the different Paradise that man use to have to be subjected to. Thanks to the shed blood of Jesus, all who believe shall experience this Godly Paradise inexpressible in words.

more to come…