Christ within You is Truth, post number 2416

     The following is taken from the thoughts of Pastor Hoekstra shared in my e-Sword Bible Studies program with some editing as required by the LORD'S Spirit. Now I have called upon the OT passages that verify all things of Christ within humanity. I also point to John 8:32 and chapters 14-17 as a study aid.

The Most Precious Promise of Shared Life:

By which have been given to humanity exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these humanity may be partakers of the divine nature . . . Christ has redeemed humanity from the curse of the Mosaic Law . . . that humanity might receive the promise of the Spirit through (His faith and obedience) faith. (2Peter 1:4 and Galatians 3:13-14)

Here's where we get at the heart of God's "exceedingly great and precious promises." By means of promise, the Lord made it possible for humanity to share in His life: "that through these [God's promises] humanity may be partakers of the divine nature."

What a remarkable prospect this is—that humanity could participate in the divine nature. Yet, the promises of GOD (as Yeshua...English translation Jesus) make this available to all of humanity. Of course, this does not mean that humanity becomes divine (as many false religions and some aberrant theologies espouse). GOD alone is, and will ever be, divine. "I am GOD, and there is no other; I am GOD, and there is none like Me" (Isaiah 46:9). Nonetheless, humanity can share in the life of GOD (Leviticus 17:11 and Hebrews 13:10 with Genesis 1:26-28 of Genesis 2:7), even though humanity will never become "a god" himself. This is accomplished by Jesus Christ coming to dwell within (humanity's flesh and thereby) the lives of those who believe Him. As the Lord Jesus died for humanity that He might give renewed life to humanity. "Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes Me has everlasting life" (John 6:47). This life was in the humanity of (Yeshua, English... Jesus) that He wants to share with humanity His own life. "Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life' . . . Jesus said to him, 'I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life' " (John 11:25 and John 14:6).

The Apostle Paul taught this great truth extensively. "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of GOD in human form as the likeness of, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus" (2Timothy 1:1). He understood that his apostolic ministry was not only anchored in GOD's Will, but it also depended upon the life that GOD promised. Thus, he confessed Christ as his very own life: "Christ who is our life" (Colossians 3:4). Paul was not the source of the daily Christ like life that he lived. "It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me" (Galatians 2:20). The Lord Jesus was Paul's life resource, as he is to be humanity's, that is to say you and me.

This is what the promise of the Spirit is about. "Christ has redeemed humanity from the curse of the Mosaic Law . . . that humanity might receive the promise of the Spirit through His faith." At new birth, the Holy Spirit also comes to indwell those who believe. The Spirit reveals these Truths to humanity through the word, Will of GOD. Then, the Spirit pours the life of Christ through every humble, dependent child of GOD (Genesis 2:7, Isaiah 43:1, 7, 10, 21, 44:2, 24, 45:18, 49:5, 54:17; Jeremiah 1:5, 33:2-3). "It is the Spirit Who gives life" (John 6:63).

LORD Yeshau, thank You for making Your life available to all of humanity. What a precious promise that is! Teach humanity to walk according to Your Spirit, that Your life might be expressed through humanity's life day by day, by the Spirit of Truth within and upon human forms. Amen.

Christ within You is Truth, post number 2415

 As "born again, born from above" Truth Seekers and our very lives tied to the revelation of Christ within us there's one maybe two passages we must consider besides those of John 14 through 17, like that of John 11:25, and Romans 4:16-17 which states this through the revelation of Christ in him....Paul here. I have increased the passages to include the following: Romans 4:15, 16-18  Because the law works wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression.
Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by Grace; To that end the promise might be sure to "all the seed"; Not to that only which is under the law, but to that also which become of the faith of Abraham; Who is the father of us all,  (As it is written, I have made you Abram,,,,Abraham a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even GOD, who quickens both the living the dead, and "calls those things which be not as though they were." Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, 'So shall your seed be.' Now this reality makes certain this promise to all that believe even Gentiles who believe as did Abraham. For that is how he became noteworthy in this matter. For YAH, YHWH  (Emmanuel, Jesus) said in John 11:25, 'He who believes Me, though he may die, he shall live.' (Romans 8:30, Whom He calls He justifies)

What is the origin of this, where might I find it? In Matthew 11:26-30 is my answer for here is what it says, and again I have expanded it: Matthew 11:25, 26-30 At that time Jesus answered and said, 'I thank You, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hid these things from the wise and prudent, and have revealed them to babes. 

Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in Your sight. All things are delivered to Me of My Father: and no man knows the Son, but the Father; neither know any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal Him. Come to Me, all that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke (this found in Genesis 1:1) upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and you shall find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.' 

Now there is more hidden within these passages as is usual when we are to be of a living spirit not of the flesh or just a soul. For like the rest of the Bible it speaks to our spirit (Christ) before our mind.

Christ within You is Truth, post number 2414

     Again we are all Seekers of Truth and for that one reason the following is of vital importance; More on God's Promises and God's Law of Love and Grace; this found in Romans 4:16; Therefore it is of faith that it might be according to Grace, so that the promise might be sure to all the seed. So what was the promise and to whom was was spoken? Simple answer is, Abraham, this found in Genesis. For later on Paul says this; All of the promises of the Gospel is the promised Savior, Who would die on the cross for our sins. If we attempt to base any of God's saving work on our performance, we are setting aside God's Grace and His truth. We are inferring that His death for us was unnecessary or inadequate. Then we find this, "I do not set aside the Grace of GOD; for if righteousness comes through the Mosaic Law, then Christ died in vain" (Gal. 2:21). From here Paul stated this in verses 19 and 20: Gal. 2:19-21 For I through the Mosaic Law am dead to this Law, that I might live in GOD. For I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ lives in me: and the life (Lev. 17:11 and Heb. 13:10) which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of GOD, Who loves me, and gave Himself for me. Therefore I do not frustrate the Grace of GOD: for if His righteousness come by the Mosaic Law, then Christ is dead in vain. This taken from Hosea 6 verses 1 through 3 which reads as follows: Hosea 6:1-3  "Come, and let us return to the LORD: for He has torn, and He will heal us; He has smitten, and He will bind us up. After two days He will revive us: in the third day He will raise us up, and we shall live in His sight. Then shall we know, if we follow on to know (learn of) the LORD: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come to us as the rain, as the latter and former rain to the earth."

Now we are still based within the context of John 14 - 17 when we recognizance what is being stated by the Lord, most of which He directed towards our receiving of Him as the Holy Spirit of Grace and Truth. As many are now realizing this, they are of Him and He is of them. This the mystery of the Gospel's good news.

Christ within You is Truth, post number 2413

     Remember that we are Seeking the Truth in this effort and that our base is in John chapters 14 through 17. In an effort to find all Truth with key phrases in chapters 14, 15, 16 and 17 where we find Jesus' High Priestly pray recorded. In chapter 14 we found the promise of the Holy Spirit in chapter 16 we found the work of the Holy Spirit and each chapter there are a series of "IFs" listed throughout them. This study and quest started in 2007 and it pulled from many resources to get at the Truth, to accomplish this effort, all religious thought and ideologies were set aside in order to take a renewed mind approach as per Romans 12:1-2.

Christ within You is Truth, post number 2412

     We are on our quest to find the Truth and so far we have through the words of Truth, Jesus as our first Christ made known, our example like none other. Picking back up in John 17 where we left off at verse 20 and remember that it is Jesus speaking not only to the disciples but all of humanity. I will add part of a daily thought from Pastor Hoekstra at the close of this, with some editing.

Disciple in the World:

John 17:20-24, 25-26 'Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe Me through their words; That they all may be one; as You, Father, art in Me, and I in You, that they also may be one in Us (Gen. 1:26-28): that the world may believe that You (You the image of) have sent Me (the likeness of). And the glory which You gave Me I have given them; That they may be one, even as We are One: I in them, and You in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and love them, as You love Me. Father, I will that they also, whom You have given Me, be with Me where I am; That they may behold My glory, which You give Me: for You love Me even before the foundation of the world.
O righteous Father, the world has not known You: but I have known You, and these have known that You have sent Me. I have declared to them Your name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith You love Me may be in them, and I in them.'

Answered Prayer Promised in Jesus Name:
'Whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it. (John14:13-14)
We who belong to the Lord have a great invitation to thoroughly express our hearts to Him in humble, dependent prayer. "Trust Him at all times, you people; Pour out your heart before Him" (Psa. 62:8). We also have a great need to be speaking to Him. 'Without Me you can do nothing" (John 15:5). We also have great promises of answered prayer. "And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do . . . If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.' 

     At this juncture, the scriptures are vital in our daily prayer life. God's word directs us in praying according to the will of GOD. "If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you" (John 15:7). As we are abiding in (dependency upon) Christ, we will be wanting His word to have full sway in our lives. As we are consistently getting into His word, the scriptures are shaping our thinking and our desiring. Consequently, we ask what the Lord is teaching us to desire. In that beautiful biblical setting, He promises to give us whatever we ask.
All of this describes the essence of praying in the name of Jesus. Praying in Jesus name is not merely a formula of words with which to conclude our prayers. Whether we verbalize that phrase or not, it is about praying as Jesus would pray (always concerned about the Will of our and His Father). It is about praying based on all that the word teaches about the person and work of the Lord Jesus on our behalf. Those who pray this way enjoy the certainty of these great promises of answered prayer, and they see much glory brought to GOD. 'Whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.'

Christ within You, post number 2411

     Being a Seeker of Truth is what we're to be. John 8:31-32 with 2Timothy reveals this, this taken from the daily thought of Pastor Hoekstra, in my e-Sword studies program where we find this: "Truth to Set Us Free from the Enemy's Bondage: 'If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the Truth, and the Truth shall make you free . . . that they may know the Truth . . . and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him. (John 8:31-32 and 2Timothy 2:25-26)
As followers of Jesus Christ, it is so imperative that we abide in His word. We are called to live in the word of the Lord that we might know His Truth. Then, as we are embracing God's Truth, we are impacted by its liberating power. "The Truth shall make you free." Religious and political Bondage's are the enemy of all mankind, they are of one fundamental area where people need, require spiritual liberation.

Now to look at our subject area of John 17 as we finished chapter 16 in post 2410. Jesus is speaking and I shall carry this through verse 19 as follows:

The High Priestly Prayer:
John 17:1-5, 6-19  These words spoke Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said,'Father, the hour is come; glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You: As You have given Him power over all flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as You have given Him. This is life eternal, that they might know You the only true GOD, and Jesus Christ, Whom You have sent. I have glorified You on the earth: I have finished the work which You gave Me to do. And now, O Father, glorify You Me with Your own self with the glory which I had with You before the world was. 

I have manifested Your name to the men which You give Me out of the world: Yours they were, and You gave these to Me; and they have kept Your word. Now they know that all things whatsoever You have given Me are of You. For I have given to them the words which You gave Me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from You, and they have believed that You did send Me. I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which You have given Me; For they are Yours. All Mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine; and I am glorified in them. And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come again to You. Holy Father, keep through Your own name those whom You have given Me, that they may be one, as We are One. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in Your name: those that You give Me I keep, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled.

 Disciples in the World:
John 17:13-19  Now come I to You; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have My joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them Your word; and the world hates them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I Sanctify them through Your Truth: Your word is Truth. As You have sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also be sanctified through Your Truth.' 

Now I have not yet finished my course with this post,as there remains verses20 through 26 ahead of us.

Christ within You, post number 2410

 As a Seeker of Truth some things just seem to drop into ones lap while others require some digging to find the answer to. Today's area is John 16 verses 25 through I guess 33.

I Have Overcome the World:

John 16:25 Picking up on Jesus' speaking again: 'These things have I spoken to you in proverbs: but the time is coming, when I shall no more speak to you in proverbs, for I shall show you plainly of the Father. At that day you shall ask in My name: and I say not, that I will pray the Father for you: For the Father Himself loves you, because you love Me, and have believed that I came out from GOD. I came from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father.' His disciples said to him, "Lo, now speak You plainly, and speak no longer by proverb (figure of speech). Now are we sure that You know all things, and need not that any man should ask You (doubt You): by this we believe that You came from GOD."
Jesus answered them, 'Do you now believe? Behold, the hour comes, yes, is now come, that you shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave Me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me. These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you might have peace. In the world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.'

Our next post will pick up with chapter 17 with Jesus' high priestly prey. To this I will add; 'If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free . . . that they may know the truth . . . and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him. (John 8:31-32 and 2Timothy 2:25-26)

Christ within You, post number 2409

     Seeking Truth is not necessarily a hard task nor is it boring because the idea of all scripture is to reveal the revelation and relationship of Christ hidden deep within our soul being, the spirit within us all of Human form with the Life and Altar within our blood (Lev. 17:11 and Heb. 13:10; Gen. 1:26-28). And because what John chapter 8 and verses 31 and 32 states. (The Truth Will Set You Free) John 8:31-32, 16:13 (this covered in post 2408)  Jesus Said to those Jews which believed Him, 'If you continue (abide) in My word (My name), then are you shall be My disciples indeed; And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.' Yes it is just that easy but know that IF you chose to do so it will cost you for with each promise there are conditions of some shape or form. Now for our study of John chapter 16 beginning with verse 16 through verse 22:

Your Sorrow Will Turn into Joy:

John 16:16-24  (Jesus is still speaking) 'A little while, and you shall not see Me: and again, a little while, and you shall see Me, because I go to the Father.' Then said some of his disciples among themselves, "What is this that he is saying to us, "'A little while, and you shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me: and, Because I go to the Father?'" They said therefore, "What is this that he said, "'A little while?'" we cannot tell what He means. Now Jesus knew that they were desirous to ask him, and said to them, 'Do you enquirer among yourselves of that I said, 'A little while, and you shall not see Me: and again, a little while, and you shall see Me?' Of a great Truth, I say to you, That you shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and you shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. For A woman when she is in travail has great sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembers no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world. And you now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man takes from you. (Prayer Promises) In that day you shall ask Me nothing. For truly, I say to you, Whatsoever you shall ask the Father being in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have you asked nothing in My name: ask, and you shall receive, that your joy may be full.' 

When one abides in Him we are abiding in the Word!

Christ within You, post number 2408

     We are into the Seeking of Truth and what is Truth. With each person this does not stand on the same grounding because of our individual backgrounds and trainings as young people. It is what causes divisions between us and nations. I say this because of the episodes of this past weekend and the effects that will ripple effect, from them around the world, like for shot heard that caused the American Revolution. Now I shall move on with our study of John chapter 16 but with this first, this taken from Pastor Hoekstra's daily thought: The Spirit Promised to Glorify Jesus:

When He, the Spirit of Truth, has come, He will guide you to all the Truth . . . He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you . . . Now we have received . . . the Spirit Who is from GOD, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by GOD. (John 16:13-14 and 1Corinthians 2:12)

The promised teaching ministry of the Holy Spirit involves His guiding us into all the Truths of the word of GOD. "When He, the Spirit of Truth, has come, He will guide you into all the Truth." As the Spirit is fulfilling this promise and mission or ministry, He especially wants to unfold God's Truth (realities) in ways that will glorify the Lord Jesus Christ. "'He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you.'" The desire of the Holy Spirit is to bring glory and honor, not to Himself, but to the Lord Jesus Christ. "'For when the Helper comes, Whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of Truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me" (John 15:26). 

Now for my target of John 16 beginning at verse 5 and carry it through verse 15, here goes: 

The Work of the Holy Spirit:

John 16:5-11, 12-15 Jesus is speaking: 'But now I go My way to Him that sent Me; and none of you asked Me, Where are You going? But because I have said these things to you, sorrow hash filled your heart. Nevertheless I tell you the Truth; It is more expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. And when He is come, "He will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:" Of sin, because they believe not on Me; Of righteousness, because I go to My Father, and you (they will) see Me no more; Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. 

I have yet many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. Howbeit when He, the Spirit of Truth, is come, He will guide you into all Truth: for He shall not speak of Himself; but whatsoever He shall hear, that shall He speak: and He will show you things to come. He shall glorify Me: for He shall receive of Mine, and shall show it to you. All things that the Father has are Mine: therefore said I, that He shall take of Mine, and shall show it to you.'  

Now to me this speaks volumes that sadly to many don't hear.

Christ within You, post number 2407

     We are on a quest of finding what Truth is in this study of our LORD Jesus Who introduced the secret things of GOD, spoken of in Deuteronomy 28:28 and the NT mystery of Christ within all of humanity as our origin and true identity, though it was also revealed in the first chapter of Genesis but not in the same language used by its author, and then carried into Leviticus 17 verse 11 and this repeated by the writer of Hebrews in chapter 13 and verse 10, this we shave shared in this blog many times already. Now the veil was removed by the hand of GOD not by man to see this look at 1Corinthians chapter 1 and verse 30 or Ephesians 1 and verse 4. Now for another look at say the OT scriptures that reveal Christ as they all are made reference to at one time or another as the inspired word. The problem remains within whom is this word revealed for me the obvious answer is within you and me as we share the same humanity that Jesus put on giving and providing us all a common ground of relationship. Our common ground restored as referenced to in Romans 12:1-2, by the Holy Spirit. Now for John chapter 16 which begins with a word of warning by Jesus;

Jesus' warning:

John 16:1-4  These things have I spoken to you, that you should not be offended. They shall put you out of the synagogues: yes, the time comes, that whosoever kills you will think that he does God service. And these things will they do to you, because they have not known the Father, nor Me. For these things have I told you, that when the time shall come, you may remember that I told you of them. And these things I said not to you at the beginning, because I was with you. 

The Work of the Holy Spirit:

John 16:5-11  But now I go My way to Him that sent Me; and none of you ask Me, Where are You going? But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your heart. Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. And when He is come, He will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: Of sin, because they believe not Me; Of righteousness, because I go to My Father, and you see Me no more; Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. 

From here Jesus tells His followers that there remains much more of Him to learn. This we shall see in our next post.

Christ within You, post number 2406

     So what is Truth and how is it reached? Should we leave that thought and move on to John chapter 15 beginning at verse 18 to see what the Lord Jesus has to say therein.

The Hatred of the World, a Disciples relationship with:

John 15:18-25, 26-27  Jesus is still speaking: 'If the world hate you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were to remain of the world, the world would love you as it's own: but because you are not of the world, for I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they persecute Me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept My saying, they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do to you for My name's sake, because they know not Him that sent Me. If I had not come and spoken to them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloke for their sin. He that hates Me hates My Father also. If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now they have both seen and hated both Me and My Father. But this comes to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, "They hated Me without a cause (Psalm 35:19 and 69:4) ."
For when the Comforter is come, Whom I will send to you from the Father, even the Spirit of Truth, which proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me: And you also shall bear witness of Me, because you have been with Me from the beginning.'

With our next posting we shall be in chapter 16 of John's epistle where we find a warning.

Christ within You, post number 2404

 Truth is sometimes hard to believe and accept but to join with the LORD of Glory that is required to receive the promise and promises. When things are in order they become clearer than before, this the work of the Holy Spirit. Today we begin our look in John 15 verses 1 through 11 and then verses 12 through 17 as follows:

I Am the True Vine:

John 15:1-4, 5-6, 7-9, 10-11 Jesus is speaking: 'I am the true vine, and My Father is the husbandman. Every branch in Me that bears not fruit He takes away: and every branch that bears fruit, He purges it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now you are clean through the word which I have spoken to you. IF you Abide in Me, and I will abide within you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can you, except you abide in Me. 

I am the vine, you are the branches: He that abides in Me, and I in him, the same brings forth much fruit: for without Me you can do nothing. If a man abides not in Me, he is cast forth as a branch, that is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. 

If you abide in Me, My words abide in you, you shall ask what you will, and it shall be done for you. Herein is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit; so shall you be My disciples. As the Father loves Me, so have I loved you: continue in My love. 

If you keep My commandments, you shall abide in My love; even as I have kept My Father's commandments, and abide in His love. These things have I spoken to you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.' 

Now for the Love relationship of those who follow Jesus: 

John 15:12-16, 17  'This is My commandment, That you love one another, as I have love you. For Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. You are My friends, if you do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knows not what his lord does: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of My Father I have made known to you. For you have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that you should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever you shall ask of the Father being in My name, He may give it you.

These things I command you, that you love one another.'

Christ within You, post number 2403

     Keeping to our search for the Truth as a seeker of Truth brings across my thoughts some of what the OT states as found in the following; God Promising the Gentiles to His Messiah:
I, the LORD, have called You in righteousness, and will hold Your hand; I will keep You and give You as a covenant to the people, as a light to the Gentiles . . . It is too small a thing that You should be My Servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved ones of Israel; I will also give You as a light to the Gentiles, that You should be My salvation to the ends of the earth. (Isa. 42:6 and 49:6) Next we have the following: God's Ability and His Promises:
Ah, LORD God! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth . . . There is nothing too hard for You . . . Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me? (Jer. 32:17, 27) Then we find this: More on God's Ability and His Promises:
With men this is impossible, but with GOD all things are possible . . . For with GOD nothing will be impossible. (Mat. 19:26 and Luke 1:37) Also this: More on God's Ability and His Promises:
Our GOD (otherwise it could be the god of the flesh) "whom we serve" (is the key) is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace . . . Now to Him Who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy. (Dan. 3:17 and Jude 1:24) How about this: Still More on God's Ability and His Promises:
For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know Whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day. (2Titus 1:12) Or maybe this: Once More on God's Ability and His Promises:
Now to Him Who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think . . . . (Eph. 3:20) Now the big one: God Promising Eternal Life:
And this is the promise that He has promised us—eternal life. (1John 2:25) It cannot get much better or can it: More on the Promise of Eternal Life:
And this is the promise that He has promised us—eternal life . . . And this is the testimony: that GOD has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. (1John 2:25 and 5:11)

The depth of these passages and others of their nature are spread throughout the new and old testament. Jesus and the Father of all humanity are oath bond to their promise and promises by way of Blood Covenant. Now for our passages taken from John chapter 15.

Christ within You, post number 2402

     The Seeking for Truth is an arguest task with many challenging potholes in the road less traveled to say the lest and one of them is the following statement of the now risen and ascended LORD Jesus. It found in John's gospel chapter 10 and verse 28 which in the KJV reads as flows, as He is speaking to the Pharisees, and because of their religious attitudes drew this out of Him: John 10:27-29  'My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me: (28)  And I give them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand. My Father, which gave them Me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of My Father's hand.' While having stated this in verse 10: John 10:10  The thief comes not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: "'I am come that they (Who are the "they" referenced here? All of Humanity is the correct answer.) might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.'" And again we have the flowing this time from chapter 10 verses 14 and 16 beginning at verse 12 of this narrative: John 1:12  But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. (14)  And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of Grace and Truth. Verse 16: Of His fullness have all we received, and grace for grace. Now for John 3 verse 15 for another bold statement, beginning with verse 14, Jesus is speaking: John 3:14  'As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: (15)  That whosoever believe Him should not perish, but have eternal life. Now that's a thought worth its weight in gold. 

But today's subject is from John 14 verses 15 through 31 this speaking of the Holy Spirit that is to be given after the ascension to His followers? Jesus tells us what the Holy Spirit's assignment and function is within the context of this. Now Jesus is doing the speaking here as sets the first requirement in verse 15.

Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit:

John 14:15-17, 18-24, 25-31 "'If you love Me, keep My Commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with and in you for ever; Even the Spirit of Truth; Whom the world cannot receive, because it sees Him not, neither know Him: but you know Him; for He dwells with and in you, and shall be in you.  

John 14:18-24  I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world will see  Me no more; but you shall see Me: because I live, you shall live also.  At that day you shall know that I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you. He that has My commandments, and keeps them, he it is that loves Me: and he that loves Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself to him. Then Judas asks of Him, not Iscariot, "Lord, how is it that You will manifest Yourself to us, and not unto the world?"  Jesus answered him with, 'If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and We will come into (Genesis 1:26-28, Leviticus 17:11) him, and make our abode within him. It is he that loves Me, but he that does not keep My sayings: and the word which you hear are not mine, for they are of the Father, Who sent Me. 

John 14:25-31  These things have I spoken to you, being yet present with you. For the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, Whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said to you. My  Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you: not as the world gives, give I to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. You have heard how I said to you, I go away, and come again to you. If you loved Me, you would rejoice, because I said, I go to the Father: for My Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it comes to pass, that, when it is come to pass, you might believe. Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world comes, and has nothing in Me. But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave Me Commandment, even so I do, give it to you. Arise, let us go hence.'" 

I apologize for it length. Our next area begins with chapter 15.

Christ within You, post number 2401

     Being a Seeker of Truth opens up doors that would have otherwise been shut especially when it comes to understanding and being empowered by the Holy Spirit to put the scriptures together in an understandable form unlike the standard Bible translations, that push the ideology of the religion of those translating it. One area that is available though it was not designed or intended for it alone is Facebook and of course the internet if one knows how to phrase a key word of text question to get the desired results. We shall look at the question and answer given to Philip in our text from John 14 verses 8 through 14 this shortly before Jesus promises to provide the Holy Spirit as our guide, comforter and the revealer of all that is Truth, as follows:

John 14:8-14  Philip asked of Him, Lord, show us the Father, and it suffices us." Jesus answers him with, 'Have I been so long time with you, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? He that has seen Me has seen the Father; and how say you then, ""Show us the Father?"" Believest you not that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak to you I speak not of Myself: but the Father that dwells in Me, He does the works. Believe Me that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me: or else believe Me for the very works' sake. Verily, verily (Of a great Truth), I say to you, He that believes Me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go to My and your Father.  And whatsoever you shall ask of Me in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you shall ask any thing in My name, I will do it.'"

This is a key to our own understanding of all things both of the past, present and further. Our next area of John 14 deals with the workings of the Holy Spirit.

Christ within You, post number 2400

     Being a Seeker of Truth brings more questions into focus than ever before, it does not allow you to skip over scriptures as when you first started out, in the act of fellowship and deep partnership with the LORD Jesus by way of the Holy Spirit, just as He did while on earth as the son of man and of GOD. It indeed makes one a specular person in so many more ways than thought at first possible, as the Holy Spirit becomes your Comforter and Spirit guide to all that is True. In a relationship of love for all of humanity as representatives of Father and Jesus, Who introduced Christ as the family name of GOD. This the secret of Deuteronomy 28:28 and the mystery of Christ. Now for our look at what Jesus told His followers that were not at the time known of, they being those who would follow Him, John 14:1-7 is our being point for this endeavor. Jesus' words startled those around Him when He stated the following:

I Am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life:

John 14:1-7 "' Let not your heart be troubled: you believe in God, believe also in Me. For In My Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And where I am, there way you know (may be also).' Then Thomas asked Him, "Lord, we know not where You are going; and how can we know the way?" Jesus answered him, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man comes to the Father, but by Me. If you had truly known Me, you should have known My Father also: from henceforth you shall know Him, for you have seen Him.'"

Now that should leave one with more questions than before for the answers are buried deep within scripture, beginning at Genesis 1:1, 26-28's image and likeness, and Leviticus 17:11's life and altar. 

I must add that all scriptures and base line thoughts are taken from my e-Sword Bible studies program and the daily thoughts of Pastor Hoekstra from here on out unless I say otherwise.

Christ within You, post number 2399

     I am jumping ahead just a bit with this post it coming out of John chapter 13 verses 31 through 35 this taken from the KJV where we find this:

A New Commandment I give to you:

John 13:31-35 "Therefore, when He was gone out, Jesus said, 'Now is the Son of man glorified, and GOD is glorified in Him. If GOD be glorified in Him, GOD shall also glorify Him in Himself, and shall straightway glorify Him. Little children, yet a little while I am with you. You shall seek Me: and as I said to the Jews, Whither I go, you cannot come; so now I say to you. A New Commandment I give to you; That you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this shall all men know that you are My disciples, if you have love one to another.'"

I shall leave it there for now so allow you to think on this.

Christ within You, post number 2398

    Some time back I created a thought development account in Truth Social titled "the Seeker of Truth," after realizing that is who I had become after my encounter with the LORD Jesus in and on August the 14th of 2007 @9:45 pm, while returning home from a prey meeting. When out of nowhere I heard and answered this question; "'Are you ready to take My yoke upon you and learn of Me?'" This I later found in Matthew 11 verses 25 through 30. This also igniting this web site in blogger.com and the 2398 postings on it, now. The revealing of our unbreakable association with Father and Son by the Holy Spirit now within humanity as it was in Jesus' humanity, mans origin and true identity restored, redeemed (Lev. 17:11; Heb. 13:10). Here's how it reads in the JKM, Mat. 11:25-30 "At that time Jesus answered and said, 'I thank You, O Father, LORD of heaven and earth, because You have hid these things from the wise and prudent, and have revealed them to babes. Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in Your sight. All things are delivered to Me of My Father: and no man knows the Son, but the Father; neither knows any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal HIM. Come to Me, all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and you shall find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.'" This is also hidden within the first verse of most standard Bibles deep within the meaning of GOD, Elohim is the Hebrew name it containing three characteristics of GOD. They are as follows H430, H433 and H410 of which we have studied many times over the years of this blog.

King David wrote this: Psa, 31:5  "Into Your hand I commit my spirit: You having redeemed me, O LORD God of Truth." Now there are some 8 confirming passages of this happening not for one but rather the many sons of GOD. Now know this where the text shows a singular title of son that this includes daughters as well. Such passages as John 14:17, 15:26, and 16:13 further backed up by Paul, John and Peter in their messages. Of which 1John 4:6 is the strongest of them, it states this: 1Jn 4:6  "We are of GOD: he that knows God hears us; he that is not of God hears not us. Hereby know we the Spirit of Truth, and the spirit of error." 

From here I will spend a few days looking at the words of Jesus as recorded by John within chapter 14 through 17 to learn more.

Christ within You, post number 2397

This taken from my e-Sword program and the thoughts shared by Pastor Hoekstra in his daily studies, with some editing on my part. Remember that with the execution and resurrection all that was spoken of within the OT took on new meaning because the shadow language of it was made known, no longer a secret nor a mystery by the aid of the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of all Truth. When Jesus took all the worlds SINS to the cross this included mans religious sin, this neutralized all sin effects all the way back to Adam  and beyond our own time and day. When studying the Bible all readings should be from that standpoint. For example where Israel is used we effectively can insert humanity, where Egypt is used any nation that reflects it's history such as America or any other nation.

God's Promise to Deliver Israel:

"'I will send you to Pharaoh that you may bring My people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt . . . I will certainly be with you . . . I will bring you up out of the affliction of Egypt . . . to a land flowing with milk and honey . . . So I will stretch out My hand and strike Egypt with all My wonders which I will do in its midst; and after that he will let you go.'" (Exodus.3:10, 12, 17, and 20)

We see our GOD as the God promises pouring out His guaranteed plans like a cascading river. They encompass God's promise to deliver Israel. These promises build upon God's fundamental commitment to Abraham to call out a people for His own glory and purposes. The central promise reveals the rescuing heart of God, who wants to deliver people from bondage, and bring them into blessing. "I will bring you up out of the affliction of Egypt . . . to a land flowing with milk and honey." (This an accurate description of America, prior to the current administration. All the while that administration worked within the framework of old administrations (since 1913) held in bondage such as Egypt inflected on Israel.)

Our God is a God of compassion. When Israel was in cruel bondage in Egypt, God's heart was moved with concern. "And the LORD said: 'I have surely seen the oppression of My people who are in Egypt, and have heard their cry because of their taskmasters, for I know their sorrows' " (Exo. 3:7). The prophet Isaiah put it this way: "In all their affliction He was afflicted" (Isa. 63:9). Thus, the Lord committed Himself to deliver them. "So I will stretch out My hand and strike Egypt with all My wonders which I will do in its midst; and after that he will let you go."

When the Lord Jesus walked upon this earth, He demonstrated the same compassion. "But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd." (Mat. 9:36). This same loving compassion led Jesus all the way to the cross to deliver us from the bondage of sin.

The delivering work of God for Israel was not only from bondage; it was to substantial blessing: "to a land flowing with milk and honey." Israel was not only rescued from great heartache, but they were brought into a joyous bounty. When Joshua and Caleb saw the land, they described it as "an exceedingly good land" (Num. 14:7). This same pattern (from bondage, to blessing) is how Jesus works on our behalf. He delivers us from spiritual death to fullness of life. "I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly" (John 10:10).

Dear Lord, my deliverer, I praise You for rescuing me from the bondage of sin and ignorance. I rejoice that You have brought me into the richness of fellowship with You. What a gracious plan You have provided—to make all of this available by means of Your faithful promises!

I first posted this on Facebook with more graphic illustration than here by putting America and the present situation in it.

Christ within You, post number 2396

In this post we will look into our relationship with our LORD and Father by Their Faith and Grace in the New Covenant or law of love, within our being. For the promise was not to man as a man but to Christ that would be in mankind. I shall draw from Genesis 12, 17, 21:12, with Abram who became Abraham; Isaiah 41:8, Acts 3:25, Romans 4:13, 16 Galatians 3:16 and Heb 2:16 and the link of the blood and altar of Leviticus 17:11 and Hebrews 13:10, not to leave out the Genesis 1:26-28's image and likeness that is to say, Christ within all of humanity. We are looking at the "seed" of promise. Watch for the subheadings. While reading this post see if you can find the four areas of the Law that Grace provides the answer for as being completed and if there are more such areas. Then we shall look at my e-Sword studies program and what Pastor Hoekstra shares therein.

Genesis 12:1-4, 15:1, 17:1, 3, 5; 1Chron. 1:27 and Neh. 9:7; Isaiah 41:8, 10 Now the LORD had said to Abram, 'Get out of your country, and from your kindred, and from your father's house, to a land that I will show you: And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you, and make your name great; And you shall be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless you, and curse him that curses you: in you shall all families of the earth be blessed.' So Abram departed, as the LORD had spoken unto him....Gen. 15:1  After these things the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision, saying, 'Fear not, Abram: I am your shield, and your exceeding great reward.'....Gen.17:1  And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, 'I am the Almighty God; walk before Me, and be perfect'....And Abram fell on his face: and GOD talked with him, saying, 'Neither shall your name any more be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham; For a father of many nations have I made you'....1Chron. 1:27 Abram; the same is Abraham....Neh. 9:7  You are the LORD the God, Who choose Abram, and brought him forth out of Ur of the Chaldees, and gave him the name of Abraham....Isa 41:8  But you, Israel, are My servant, Jacob whom I have chosen, the seed of Abraham My friend.... 

Jesus as Christ is speaking this in: Matthew 22:32  'I am the GOD of Abraham, and the GOD of Isaac, and the GOD of Jacob? GOD is not the God of the dead, but of the living.'

We're on our way to Acts 3 but before we get there here are a few more references: John 8:33, 37, 39-40, 56-58  They answered Jesus with, in John 8:33, "We be Abraham's seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how say you, "You shall be made free?"....'I know that you of Abraham's seed; But you seek to kill Me, because My word has no place in you.'... They answered and said Him, "Abraham is our father." Jesus said to them, 'If you were Abraham's children, you would do the works of Abraham. But now you seek to kill Me, a man that has told you the truth, which I have heard of GOD: this did not Abraham do....Your father Abraham rejoiced to see My day: and he saw it, and was glad.' Then said the Jews to Him, "You are not yet fifty years old, and how is it that you say that you have seen Abraham?" Jesus said to them, 'Verily, verily, I say to you, Before Abraham was, I am.'

Acts 3:13, 25; 13:26  The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified His Son Jesus; Whom you delivered up, and denied Him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let Him go....You are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which GOD made with our fathers, saying to Abraham, 'And in your seed shall all the kindred's of the earth be blessed.'....Men and brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you fears (reverences, honors) GOD, to you is the word of this salvation sent. {Leterally; "Come Out From Among Them!"}

Romans 4:1-3, 9, 12-13, 16  What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, has found? For if Abraham were justified by works, he had whereof to glory; But not before GOD. For what say the scripture? Abraham believed GOD, and it was counted to him for righteousness....then came this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? For we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness....And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised. For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, not through the law, but through the righteousness of faith...Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by Grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; Not to that only which is of the law, but to that which is of the faith of Abraham; Who is the father of us all, (who enter the salvation of Christ.) 

Galatians 3:1-9, 10-14, 15-29  O foolish Galatians (today's christians), who has bewitched you, that you should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ has been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, Received you the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are you so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are you now made perfect by the flesh (the works required by the Mosaic Law and man's religions)? Have you suffered so many things in vain? If it be yet in vain. He therefore that ministers to you the Spirit, and works miracles among you, does he do it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Even as Abraham believed GOD, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. Know you therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. And the scripture, foreseeing that GOD would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, 'In you shall all nations be blessed.' So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.

The Righteous Shall Live by Faith:

Galatians 3:10-14  For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, "Cursed is every one that continues not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them." But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of GOD, it is evident: for, 'The just shall live by faith.' (Hab. 2:4; Rom. 1:17, and Heb 10:38) And the law is not of faith: but, "The man that does them shall live in them." Christ having redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed is every one that hangs on a tree (Deu. 21:23; Jos. 10:26-27)." That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; That we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. 

The Law vs the Promise:

Galatians 3:15-29  Brethren, I speak after the manner of men; Though it be but a man's covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man dis-annulls, or adds thereto. Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He said not, to seeds, as of many; But rather as of one, and to your seed, which is Christ (Gen. 1:26-28, Leviticus 17:11 and Hebrews 13:10, the life in the blood and the altar of our Covenant of which they who serve the temple [the flesh of man] have no part.). And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of GOD in Christ, the Mosaic Law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot dis-annul, that it should make the promise of none effect. For if the inheritance be of this Law, it is no more of promise: but GOD gave it to Abraham by promise. Wherefore then serves the Mosaic Law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; It was ordained by angels (religious messengers) in the hand of a mediator. Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but GOD is One (being in total agreement El-o-hiym, Gen. 1:1). Is the law then against the promises of GOD? GOD forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the Mosaic Law. But the scripture having concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe Him. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up from the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. For after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. For we are all the children of GOD by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. In Whom; There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for all are one in Christ Jesus. And if you be Christ's, then are you Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.

Now for Hebrews 2 and 3:

Warning Against Neglecting Salvation:

Hebrews 2:1-4, 5-3:6, 7-19  Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the word spoken by angels (messengers) was steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward; How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; Which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed to us by them that heard Him; GOD also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to His own will? 

The Author and Founder of Salvation:

Hebrews 2:5-18 For to the angels has He not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak. But one in a certain place testified, saying, "What is man, that You art mindful of him? or the son of man, that You visited Him? You having made Him a little lower than the angels; You crowned Him with glory and honor, and did set Him over the works of Your hands: You having put all things in subjection under His feet. For in that He put all in subjection under Him, He left nothing that is not put under Him. But now we see not yet all things put under Him. But we see Jesus, Who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honor; That He being Christ, the author the of Grace of GOD should taste death for every man. For it became Him, for Whom are all things, and by Whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to make the captain (author) of their salvation perfect through sufferings. For both He that sanctifies and they who are sanctified are all of One: for which cause He is not ashamed to call them brethren, Saying, I will declare Your [Christ] name to My brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise to You. And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which GOD has given Me. For as much then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, He also Himself likewise took part of the same; That through death He might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil (mans corrupted mindset acquired in Genesis 3 and warned of in Gen. 2); And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. For verily He took not on Himself (this He did during the OT times) the nature of angels (messengers); But He took on Himself as Christ, the promised seed of Abraham. Wherefore in all things it behooved Him to be made like unto His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to GOD, to make reconciliation (atone) for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself having suffered being tempted, He is able to succor them that are tempted. 

Jesus Greater Than Moses:

Hebrews 3:1-6, 7-19  Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus; Who was faithful to Him that appointed Him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house. For this man was counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as He Who has built the house has more honor than the house. For every house is built by some man; But He that built all things is GOD. Moreover Moses truly was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after; But Christ is a son over His own house; Whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm to the end.

 A Rest for the People of God:

Hebrews 3:7-19  Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost said, 'To day if you will hear His voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness: When your fathers tempted Me, proved Me, and saw My works forty years. Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do always error in their heart; And they have not known My ways. So I swore in My wrath (My deep burning Love, violent compassion, They shall not enter into My rest.' Numbers 14:20-23, 25, 27-30, 35) Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living, Loving GOD. But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end; While it is said, 'To day if you will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.' For some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses. But with whom was he grieved forty years? Was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcasses fell in the wilderness? And to whom swore He that they should not enter into His rest, but to them that believed not? So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief. 

From here I will share the thoughts of Pastor Hoekstra from my e-Sword Bible study program:

Living by Grace: Humility and Faith vs the Mosaic Law

GOD resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble . . . through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand. (James 4:6 and Romans 5:2)

How does a believer of Jesus Christ access the ongoing, sanctifying grace of GOD for daily godliness? It is accessed the same way that the initial, justifying grace of GOD was acquired - - by humility and faith. We were justified, declared righteous in God's sight, when we humbly trusted the Lord Jesus. We humbly agreed with the Lord's account of our guilty condition. "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God . . . For the wages of sin is death" (Rom. 3:23; 6:23). We also put our trust in Christ concerning His offer of life (based upon His death and resurrection on our behalf). "But the gift of GOD is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Rom. 6:23). Thereby we partook of the justifying Grace of GOD, through humility and faith.This is how the Lord wants us to continue to relate to Him for sanctifying Grace.

Our God wants us to walk in humility, because grace is what we need for growth in godly living. Remember this great truth of Grace: "But grow in the grace . . . of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2Peter 3:18). If we are unwilling to walk in humility, we will not enjoy this wondrous sanctifying impact of Grace, because "God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble." When we live by self-sufficiency, the requirement of the Mosaic Law and man's religions, GOD resists us. When we function in humility, GOD gives us grace for living.

Our God also wants us to walk in our measure of faith, because faith accesses Grace. "Through Whom [Christ, the Gen. 1:26-28 secret] also we have access by Jesus' faith into this Grace in which we stand." We now stand in a kingdom that offers "Grace upon grace" (John 1:16). Abundant Grace is available for every step we are to take. This Grace is partaken of by faith. Whenever we trust in the Lord Jesus concerning any issue of life, we are reaching by faith into GOD'S unlimited resources of Grace, by which we are enabled to live effectively.

Hereby we see that living by Grace involves two relational realities: humility and faith. We do not produce either. Neither are of works. Humility admits we cannot do the work (of being holy, loving, perfect). Faith relies upon the work of another, the Lord Jesus Christ. They are both relational realities, since they become real in our lives through a growing relationship with the Lord. The more we get to know the Lord Jesus Christ, to that degree humility and faith will become realities in our lives.

O LORD, You are my salvation, from justification throughout a lifetime of sanctification. Forgive me for underestimating my need for You. Forgive me concerning the self-sufficient, self-confident ways by which I have often lived. I humble myself before You. I want to live by trust and confidence in You. I long to live by Your Grace, not by my best efforts. Help me to know You, that humility and faith might develop in my life, Amen.

Can you see the agreement here? Grace satisfies the Law's demands, how, by which ones?

Grace, satisfies the Hear O' Israel, the LORD our GOD is One LORD.

Grace, satisfies, be perfect as I am perfect. 

Grace, satisfies, be Holy as I am Holy.

Grace, satisfies, the requirement for self works.

Grace, satisfies, the love your neighbor as you love yourself.

How by the richness of His Grace, Ephesians 1:7 and abundance of Grace, Romans 5:17...with the gift of righteousness and renewal of the mind, Romans 12:1-2. I Will put the new law on their hearts and in their minds. Jeremiah 31:33. It is good that the heart is established by Grace, Hebrews 13:9.

Christ within You, post number 2395

Today, I want to draw our attention to Titus 2:11-13 of 11-14 where we find this:  For the Grace of GOD that brought salvation by appearing to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great GOD and our Savior* Jesus Christ (GOD); Who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem (provide the healing of Isaiah 53:5) to all of humanity from all iniquity, and purify to Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

*Greek G4992 in the Strong's which states this: sōtērion  so-tay'-ree-on   Neuter of the same as G4991 as (properly concrete) noun; defender or (by implication) deference: - salvation. [G4991: sōtēria  so-tay-ree'-ah Feminine of a derivative of G4990 as (properly abstract) noun; rescue or safety (physically or morally): - deliver, health; G4990: sōtēr  so-tare'   From G4982; a deliverer, that is, God or Christ: - savior; G4982: sōzō  sode'-zo   From a primary word σῶς sōs̄ (contraction for the obsolete σάος saos, “safe”); to save, that is, deliver or protect (literally or figuratively): - to heal, preserve, save (self), do well, be (make) whole.] 

Now for Isaiah 53:5-6: For He (Christ) was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was laid upon Christ; And with [by] Christ's stripes we are healed*. For we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned every one to his own way; And the LORD has laid on Christ the iniquity of us all. *H7495: râphâ' râphâh  raw-faw', raw-faw'  Of a primitive root; properly to mend (by stitching), that is, (figuratively) to cure: - cure, (cause to) heal, physician, repair, X thoroughly, make whole. [this being the Genesis 2 of mans origin and identity healed, restored to is original state or condition of identity. In the Grace of our original innocence.] This being the Gospel of Grace and Grace being the New Covenant vs the Old Covenant of the Mosaic Law of self works condemnation.

Now for the thought of the day written by Robert Hoekstra in my e-Sword Bible Study helps program, with a little editing done by me. Now for this study:

For the Grace of GOD that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great GOD and Savior Jesus Christ. (Titus 2:11-13)

Time and again, we have considered the connection between Grace and justification. "Being justified freely by His Grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus...In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His Grace" (Rom. 3:24 and Eph. 1:7). Now, we have an opportunity to ponder once more the relationship between Grace and sanctification. "For the Grace of GOD that brings salvation has appeared to all men." It is GOD'S Grace that brings salvation to mankind. For nearly 2,000 years, that saving Grace of the Lord has been offered to humanity through the preaching of the gospel. This particular verse now adds another function to the work of Grace. "For the Grace of GOD [is] teaching us."

The Grace of GOD not only redeemed the souls of all who believe; It also works in believer's lives to teach and instruct them. GOD'S Grace, working through His word ("The word of His Grace"—Acts 20:32), instructs and shapes our thinking (Rom. 12:1-2) and living: "Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age." It is the Will of our Heavenly Father that His children turn away from that which is worldly and spiritually compromising. He wants us to walk in godliness, in Christ-likeness. GOD works this into our hearts by His Grace.

GOD'S Grace also develops expectant lives, eager to have the Lord Jesus return for His people: "Looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great GOD and Savior Jesus Christ."

The Grace of GOD impacting our hearts through His word by His Spirit is His divine means to bring about such transformation [G3339] (salvation, [Rom. 12:1-2, G3339; metamorphoō]) in us. To view sanctification as something we can produce through our own performance (that is, by Law) is akin to overlooking GOD'S Grace and underestimating the provisions of the cross of Christ. "I do not set aside the Grace of GOD; For if righteousness comes through the Mosaic Law, then Christ died in vain" (Gal. 2:21).

Dear LORD Jesus, my great GOD and Savior, I want to live in eager anticipation of Your return. Meanwhile, I desire to please You by growing in godliness, holiness and in applied righteousness. Thank You for Your long-suffering (mercy or compassionate) love, patiently teaching me by Your Grace—the Grace that I sometimes neglect, attempting to produce all of these realities by the striving of my flesh in the Jewish Law of Moses. From such vanity I turn to hope in You, LORD Jesus, Amen.

Now this could well be my last post. Only the LORD of lords and Spirit of spirit's knows this. So just who is Christ and who is the Holy Spirit or the Holy Ghost? Of what benefit is Grace?

Christ within You, post number 2394

So by way of review what are the four ways or areas that Grace perfects humanity by His faith within our being?

Before we get into our studies of Jeremiah 31 and Hebrews, allow me to say this. Jesus as the son of man of Genesis 1:26-28, took on man's humanity (Genesis 2:7) for the purpose of creating a link as humanity's kinsmen redeemer (Ruth 2:20, Rom. 9:3 and 16:7) would justify and sanctify humanity as the Son of GOD, this hidden in the first chapter of the Genesis narrative. Now for Jeremiah 31 which reads as follows: Jer 31:31-34 "Behold, the days come, says the LORD, that I (Mat. 26:28, Mark 14:24, Luke 24:11, 1Cor. 11:25, 2Cor. 3:6, Heb. 8:6-13) will make a New Covenant with  the house of Israel, and with (Jer. 50:4-5; Gal. 6:16, Phil. 3:3) the house of Judah: Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; Which Covenant they broke, although I was an husband (this hidden in the title or word, LORD) to them, says the LORD: For this shall be the covenant (Jer. 32:40) that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, says the LORD, I will put My law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; And will be their GOD (John 20:17, Rev. 21:3, and 7), and they shall be My people. And they shall teach (1Thes. 4:9, Heb. 5:12, 1John 2:27) no more every man his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, "Know (1Chron. 28:9, and John 17:3) the LORD:" for they shall all know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them, says the LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will (Mic. 7:8; Acts 10:43, 13:38-39, Eph. 1:7 and Heb. 8:12 and 10:17-18, with 13:10) remember their sin no more." 

As we can now see GOD promised a New Covenant of Grace though it was not at that time named as such. In Romans 11:26-27 we find this: Rom 11:25-28 For I would not, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own conceits; That blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles be come in. And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, "There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer (kinsmen redeemer), and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: For this is My Covenant with them, when I shall take away their sins." Now will this take place when the LORD Jesus returns for Israel? Meanwhile the families of GOD, this includes Jews and Gentiles, of all nations of humanity as one people has invigorated the New Covenant by His blood (Luke 22:20).

Can you see the astounding three-fold provisions of this New Covenant for all who will but believe? The first, is forgiveness of sins. "For I will forgive their iniquities, and their sin I will remember no more," The second, is the availability of a true relationship; "They all shall know Me." form the least to the greatest among humanity. The third, there is the internal workings of GOD enabling and changing people's lives from the inner core of humanity's being; "I will put My new law in their minds and write in on their hearts."

I am deliberately trying to keep this short by breaking it up into smaller studies where possible. In our next study we shall look at the Hebrews records, as the new and living way, once we've lad the ground work for it.

Christ within You, post number 2393

Yeshua....Jesus Christ came as the Lion of the tribe of Judah awakens the sheep to become Lions as His followers. To evangelize the world into His kingdom as free born sons. There is one if not more occasions that the book of Isaiah was read before the priests and the people, one such occasion is in Matthew 4:14 which is Isaiah 9:1-2 of 1-7 which reads: Nevertheless the dimness shall not be such as was in her vexation, when at the first He lightly afflicted the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, and afterward did more grievously afflict her by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, in Galilee of the nations. The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them has the light shined. You have multiplied the nation, and not increased the joy: they joy before You according to the joy in harvest, and as men rejoice when they divide the spoil. For You have broken the yoke of their burden, and the staff on their shoulders, the rod of their own oppressor, as in the day of Midian. For every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; But this shall be with burning and fuel of fire. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given: and the government will be upon His shoulders: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty GOD, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government (kingdom, NT Covenant of Grace) and Peace, there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon His kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. 

Then we come to Matthew 8:17 and the words again of Isaiah in 53:4-5 of 1-12 which reads:  Who has believed our report? And to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed? For He (they) shall grow up before Him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: they have no form nor comeliness; And when we shall see them, there is no beauty that we should desire them. They are the despised and rejected of men; They are men of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from them as we did Him; they are despised, and we didn't esteemed them nor Him. Surely they have borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem them nor Him as stricken, smitten of GOD, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, they were bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was laid upon them as it was upon Him; and by His stripes we are healed [H7495; repair, X thoroughly, make whole.]. All we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned every one to his own way; The LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth: He is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so He opened not His mouth. For He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare His generation? For He was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of His people was He stricken. And they made His grave with the wicked, and with the rich in His death; Because He had done no violence, neither was any deceit in His mouth. Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise Him; He having put Him to grief: when You shall make His soul an offering for sin, He shall see His seed, He shall prolong His days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in His hand. He shall see of the travail of their soul, and they shall be satisfied: by His knowledge shall His righteous servant be justified among many; For He has born their iniquities. Therefore will I divide Him a portion with the great, and He shall divide the spoil with the strong; Because they have poured out their soul unto death: and they were numbered with the transgressors; Yet He bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors. 

In the next few days we shall look at Jeremiah 31, and Hebrews to get a clear picture of our present state and conditions within the New Covenant of promise and how it effects all of humanity, not just Israel as referenced.

Christ within You, post number 2392

I will again call upon my e-Sword program and the thoughts of Pastor Hoekstra contained therein. As an aid in this study of GOD'S Plan, and where needed by the Holy Spirit edit the material presented.

Righteousness through Christ in Sanctification:

For what the Law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, GOD did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh (our humanity), on account of sin (the lose of the knowledge of our origin and true identity, this the effects of Genesis 3's record which cursed all of humanity): He condemned sin in the flesh, that the righteous requirement of the Law might be fulfilled (this the same fulfilling spoken of by the Lord of Mat. 5:17's fulfill G4137, to make replete, to make abundantly filled,,,ie. to over fill [now who's the beneficiary of this action, humanity]) in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. (Rom. 8:3-4)

How wonderful it is to be "justified freely by His Grace" (Rom. 3:24). Yet, what disappointment and discouragement awaits us, if we do not learn that GOD desires to sanctify us freely by His Grace and Truth as well. This plan of GOD, as we should expect, hinges upon the, 'it is finished' work of Jesus Christ.

In matters of justification, as well as sanctification, the Law has a weakness. This weakness is that natural human resources, the flesh of man, cannot live up to the standards of GOD. These we described in 2391. Thus, to accomplish what the Law could never accomplish the Father sent His Son to accomplish on humanity's behalf. "For what the Law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, GOD did by sending His own Son."

Jesus came as a man and died on the cross to eradicate the consequences of sin's consciousness. This death of Christ provided justification for all who would believe the Lord Jesus. Yet, the next verse reveals that through His sacrificial death on the cross progressive, practical sanctification is available day by day through faith in the Lord. "That the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit."

The word "walk" makes Rom. 8:4 a verse on sanctification, not justification. Justification takes place with the first moment of faith in Christ. Sanctification continues step by step, day by day, throughout the life of all that believer.

Think of this grand truth. God's Grace provides the way "that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us." Remember, that heavenly demand is "be holy," be like Christ. This transformation of life takes place daily in the life of any believer who does "not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit." If we renounce the natural resources of man and trust in the Lord Jesus step by step through life, His Holy Spirit accomplishes His sanctifying work in us by the gift of Grace of GOD. 

Law and Grace, Old Covenant and New Covenant:

The LORD gave me the two tablets of stone, the tablets of the covenant . . . For the law was given through Moses, but Grace and Truth came through Jesus Christ . . . This cup is the New Covenant in My blood. (Deu. 9:11; John 1:17; and Luke 22:20)

In our studies of the Law and Grace, we have also been considering (though not yet mentioning) the principal characteristics of the Old Covenant and the New Covenant. When the Lord wrote the message of His law upon stone tablets for Moses, He was prescribing the terms of the Old Covenant. "The LORD gave me the two tablets of stone, the tablets of the covenant." When Jesus came into the world to die on the cross, the Lord was establishing the New Covenant. "This cup is the New Covenant in My blood." The blood of the testator, the Spiritual mediator, in effect cancelled the OT Mosaic Law of condemnation that was weak as it had no means of redemption let alone salvation within it.

These two covenants of Law and Grace present one of the major contrasting themes in the word of GOD. "For the Law was given through Moses, but Grace and Truth came through Jesus Christ..." Understanding the differences between these two covenants is of utmost importance for living the Christ life as GOD intends, all of humanity.

GOD'S law tells us that He desires holiness to characterize the way we live. Only GOD'S Grace can provide such righteousness in our lives. GOD'S law tells us that He wants Christlike love to permeate our attitudes and relationships. Only GOD'S Grace can develop such love in us. GOD'S law tells us that He desires the perfections of the Father to be growing in us. Only GOD'S Grace is sufficient to carry out such a process of transformation.

The law of GOD is the what; The Grace of GOD is the How. The law of GOD reveals sin; The Grace of GOD forgives sin. The law of GOD indicates man's problem; The Grace of GOD provides all GOD'S remedy. The law of GOD demands performance by man; The Grace of GOD offers provision from GOD.

The law of God is the standard; The Grace of GOD is the means. The law of GOD is the spiritual measuring rod that evaluates lives; The Grace of GOD is the nurturing resource that produces spiritual life. The law of GOD tells us of the character of GOD; The Grace of GOD reproduces that character in us. The law of GOD is the effect GOD wants to see; The Grace of GOD is the cause that brings forth that effect.

LORD God of Truth, help me to rightly divide (understand) Your Truth. Enlighten my spiritual understanding that I might increasingly grasp the differences between Law and Grace. Show me the full implications of the Old Covenant and the New Covenant.Your word impresses me with the enormous significance of these issues. Thank You for Your patience concerning my negligence or confusion on these matters. O LORD, I earnestly desire to live a righteous and holy life. Teach me the path of humble dependency upon Your glorious Grace, through Jesus, my LORD and my life, the great Amen.

I pray for clarity of understanding for all who read this. Thank You for such clarity of mind.

Christ within You, post number 2391

Okay, so far what have we learned of the Lord Jesus? The answer can be summed up in the following; Every human being ever created needs the redemption price paid for them. "For there is no difference; For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Why and how, by the conscientiousness of their need for redemption of the sin conspicuousness buried deep within them. Now, for all who believe the Lord Jesus, the righteousness of GOD is imputed to them, that is to say, it is credited as a gift to their heavenly account. Thereby, the LORD God justifies humanity "freely by His Grace." The ascended LORD declares humanity righteous in GOD'S sight by giving humanity "the righteousness of GOD which is through His faith." Okay, now for the e-Sword programs and Pastor Hoekstra's thoughts on this, taking us back to Mat. 5:17's statements as we looked at them in 2390.

Righteousness through Christ in Justification

But now the righteousness of GOD apart from the law is revealed, it being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of GOD which is through faith in Jesus Christ to all and in all who believe. For there is no difference; For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of GOD, being justified freely by His Grace (Rom. 3:21-24)

The basic manner in which Jesus fulfills the law of GOD for humanity is by justifying humanity "freely by His Grace." He did and does this by offering humanity "the righteousness of GOD which is through faith."

In the gospels Jesus Christ, "is and was the righteousness of GOD apart from the law is revealed." It is the same righteousness that is spoken of in the law, that is, "being witnessed by the Law." However, in the law righteousness is an impossible standard being imposed on all of humanity. In the gospels, it is a gracious gift being offered. And it is this gift that is not tolerated by any of mans many religious systems that are based upon the Genesis 3 record, as the poison of an asp under the tongue of man there after. As the convictions of the law within humanity as we brought out in 2390, 2389, 2388a and b.

This gift of righteousness is available to all who believe, to all who put their trust in the Lord Jesus Christ to be their Savior (kinsmen redeemer) and LORD in which the kinsmen redeemer is hidden. This gift is, of course, frees the recipients, this being salvation's coming out from among, them. This being the message heard by Abram and by his actions of doing so became Abraham. A friend of GOD. Yet, it was made available at great cost to the giver. This gift cost the Father His only begotten Son. This gift cost the Son His own life, as He paid the price of redemption to buy humanity back from the slave market of sin and death, these the snares used against humanity in Genesis 3 by covert action of deception a lie.This being the standards of man's religions, the catching of heel, world wide as a propaganda mechanism of fear and intimidation, superstitions, by the use of meths, legends "religious holiday's" and buying of penitence as a tithe offering to the local religious institutions and funding it's many programs, not brought about by GOD'S direction but mans.

Father of Glory, what marvelous gift is Your Grace - - what marvelous Grace! Such a thorough provision is supplied by Your Grace. Through the work of Jesus, my risen LORD, the law is fulfilled. Its holy demands are met on humanity's behalf. Our failure before Your law is fully covered by Your Grace. Lord Jesus, thank You for paying the penalty for my inherited sins. My desire to grow in the righteous life that You lived, and that the law describes, is fully available by Your Grace. O LORD, this is Grace upon grace. For this I praise You, and I rejoice with expectation. LORD Jesus, by faith I now look to You to be my life, light and love this day. LORD, inhabit my heart and shape my attitudes, my words, my relationships, and my deeds, I pray in Your mighty name, the forever Amen.

Christ within You, post number 2390

Okay, we are now facing what the Lord Jesus Christ meant when He stated this as recorded by Matthew in chapter 5 verse 17 here's what the KJV states: "'Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but* to fulfill.'"  Remember that in Matthew, He also gave to those who would accept His yoke of learning, of who or what, of Him. Not man's religion but rather "of Him." So now what is meant by this phrase, "to fulfill" what does the Strong's Greek have to say in the G4137 assigned to it, then I shall call upon Pastor Hoekstra for some more insight from my e-Sword program. We have looked at Romans 3:31, 10:4 and Galatians 3:17-24 among many others to overflowing Grace and the abundance of His Life restored within our original identity by His stripes we are the healed of the LORD, this seen in Gal. 2:19-21, For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto GOD. For I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; Yet not I, but Christ lives in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of GOD (the fulfilling of Mat. 5:17), Who loves me, and gave Himself for me. I do not frustrate the Grace of GOD: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ died humanity's death in vain.

The Strong's Greek G4137: plēroō  play-ro'-o  From G4134; to make replete, that is, (literally) to cram (a   net), level up (a hollow), or (figuratively) to furnish (or imbue, diffuse, influence), satisfy, execute (an office), finish (a period or task), verify (or coincide with a prediction), etc.: - accomplish, X after, (be) complete, end, expire, fill (up), fulfill, (be, make) full (come), fully preach, perfect, supply. [G4134: plērēs  play'-race From G4130; replete, or covered over; by analogy complete: - full. G4130: plēthō  play'-tho,  pleh'-o,  A prolonged form of a primary word πλέω pleō (which appears only as an alternate in certain tenses and in the reduplicated form of πίμπλημι pimplēmi to “fill” (literally or figuratively [imbue, influence, supply]); specifically to fulfill (time): - accomplish, full (. . . come), furnish.]

Now for a look at Pastor Hoekstra's thoughts with a little editing by the Holy Spirit, Christ within me and you; The ultimate ability of the law of GOD is its capacity to tutor people to Christ. "The law was our tutor to bring Humanity to Christ." This was the plan of GOD to use His law to inform humanity about our need for Christ. Remember the summaries of the law of GOD: "be holy, be loving, be perfect." The law deeply ingrained within our being says to us , "be holy." This described in Leviticus 17:11 where it states this; "For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that makes an atonement for the soul." For the law requires all to be loving, and when we are not loving it speaks; "You need Christ." For the law insists that we are to be perfect as our Father is perfect. Again, "you need Christ." In this way the law functions as our tutor (schoolmaster or child-trainer) instructing humanity of their need for what only Christ can provide, His Grace!

Once we respond to the law's tutoring work, we are no longer under the rule of the tutor's controlling. For we have placed our trust or our measure of faith in Christ and we are no longer under the law's influence, "for after faith has come, humanity is no longer under a tutor." Once we were told by the law to be holy, now instead we look to Christ for our holiness. "But of Him we are all in Christ Yeshua....Jesus, Who has become for us....."righteousness and sanctification." (1Cor. 1:30)

Again, as we were once told by the law to be loving, now we look to the Spirit of Christ for all the love that our lives requires. "But the fruit of the eternal Spirit is love" (Gal. 5:22)

And again, once we were told by the law to be perfect, now we look to Christ for all of the perfection of the perfecting process. "Being confident of this every good thing, that He Who has begun a good work in you will complete it (the fulfilling) until the day of the LORD Christ." (Phip. 1:6) Where we find G2005 for complete: epiteleō  ep-ee-tel-eh'-o  From G1909 and G5055; to fulfill further (or completely), that is, execute; by implication to terminate, undergo: - accomplish, do, finish, (make) (perfect), perform (X -ance). Remember G4137, G4134, and G4130 in our first look at Mat. 5:17.

Now for the cross references to the one word connection the word, "but*," Mat. 3:15; Psa. 40:6-8; Isa. 42:21; Rom. 8:4; Gal. 4:4-5; Col. 2:16-17; and Heb. 10:3-12.

From here we can jump to Romans 3:21-24 where we find our being justified by His Grace once again.

Christ within You, post number 2389

In our studies of 2388a and b we found that the promise given to Abraham can not be done away (disannuled) with but can the law of condemnation be annulled? 

By today's religious standards we have to prove ourselves innocent because the assumption is that you/all are guilty! Guilty of something like the religious institution's doctrine of "SIN." Why because of the in-bread conscientiousness of sin, this the effects of eating of the forbidden fruit, not realizing that all of humanity is by the Spirit not under the law and its curse but in Grace. This of Romans but before I get into that what were the words of the Lord used by Him in Matthew 5 and 6, He stated "'But I say to you,'" the other word used by Him is, "'fulfill,'"ie,,,the scriptures must be fulfilled, it would serve us all well to do some research in the use of these two words.

Now for Romans 3:19-20 which says this, beginning at verse 9: Rom. 3:9-20  What then? Are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proven both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin; As it is written, "There is none righteous, no, not one: There is no one that understands, there is none that seek after GOD. (Isaiah 8:20, Psalm 14:1-3, 53:1-3) They are all gone out of the way (Exodus 38:2, Psalm 14:3), they are together become unprofitable; There is none that does good, no, not one (they remain bound by religions chains). Their throat is an open sepulcher; With their tongues they have used deceit; The poison of asps is under their lips: Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness: Their feet are swift to shed blood: Destruction and misery are in their ways: And the way of peace have they not known: There is no fear (reverence) of GOD before their eyes. Now we know that what things soever the law says, it says to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before GOD. Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in His sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.

With all that said lets look at Galatians 3:2-3: This only would I learn of you, received you the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are you so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now made perfect by the flesh?  What is the result of this? Where/who's the source of this? Who's the source of this? Matthew 10:41 The Lord is here speaking, states this, "'He that receives a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward; And he that receives a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward.'" There's two more for our benefit: Mat. 13:17, 43  For verily I say to you, 'That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see these things which you see, and have not seen them; And to hear these things which you hear, and have not heard them....Then shall the righteous shine as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Those who have ears to hear, let him hear.'" (Isaiah 50:4)

Now we'll look again to Paul's letter to Timothy in 1Tim. 1:8-9 of 3-11 and Galatians in Gal. 5:18, we see what few see: beginning at the Warning Against False Teachers:

As I besought you to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that you might charge some that they teach no other doctrine, neither give heed to their fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is of faith: so they do. Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned: From which some having swerved have turned aside to vain jangling;  Desiring to be teachers of the law; Understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm. But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for the unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for man-slayers, for whore-mongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for men-stealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine; According to the glorious gospel of the blessed GOD, which was committed to my trust. Now Galatians 5:18 of :16-25:  This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: these are contrary the one to the other: so that you cannot do the things that you otherwise would. But if you be led of the Spirit, you are not under the law. Now the religious works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, sedition's, heresies, envying, murders, drunkenness, revelings, and such like: of the which I told you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of GOD. For the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

So what is this saying?  Looking at 1Tim 1:8-9 and Galatians 5:18 But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient (insubordinate), for the ungodly and for sinners....But if you be led of the Spirit, you are not under the law. 

Now boiling this all down what is it saying? Although the law has some GOD-given inabilities, it is nevertheless good. For Roams 7:12 states: Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. If one uses it lawfully it has certain abilities. One unlawful application of the law would be using it to obtain justification, a declaration of being righteous in GOD'S sight. If anyone ever infers that attempt by their obedience to the law of GOD could they secure an overall verdict of "not guilty," that is biblically for bidden.

Another use of unlawful application of the law would be to obtain sanctification, progressive spiritual growth in the Lord. If a person imagines they can grow in godliness by their best efforts by living up to the law, that too would be prohibited.

For as stated in Romans 6:13-14, Neither yield your members as instruments of unrighteousness to sin: but yield yourselves to GOD, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness of GOD. For sin does not have dominion over you: for you are not under the law, but under Grace. 

John 1:14, 17  And the Word was made humanity (flesh), and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full (G4134; to make replete, to begin again, replenish, endowed with) of Grace and Truth.....For the law was given by Moses, but Grace and Truth came by Jesus Christ.

I shall allow this to sit a spell before posting it.

I have to credit my e-Sword program and the thoughts of Pastor Hoekstra it contains along with other commentaries.