Are we ready for the grounds that are just ahead of us? The world as a whole believes that it is "Christian," but does that make it so? There are many legal religious institutions of man's own imagination that speak of themselves as being the "church," or as being "Christian," but does that make it so? With those things said, lets look again into what Paul by revelation reveals of our being living hosts, that is to say humanity's being One in Christ. And by the way least I forget, I will separate chapter 3 from this revelation simply because Paul returns our attention to his stewardship, which is ours by birth into the living and breathing church. When you come to the quote taken from Isaiah 57:19, I would suggest taking a look at the entire passage because it addresses the wicked as seen/known by GOD through the eyes of Isaiah. In case your wondering where it is in the text of our targeted passages, it is verse 17. Also it should be noted when reading Paul's language used, listen to see if you can pick up on a hint of contempt, that is in his voice.
Ephesians 2:11-22 "Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called "Uncircumcision" by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; For to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby (this next line is a quote taken from Isaiah 57:19): "And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh." For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together(G4883) groweth(G837) unto an holy temple(G3485) in the Lord (John 17:13-19, 20-24, 25-26): In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit." (KJV)
Ephesians 2:11-22 "Therefore remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh, called "the uncircumcision" by what is called the circumcision, which is made in the flesh by hands— remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility (this next line is a quote taken from Isaiah 57:19). And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together(G4883), grows(G837) into a holy temple(G3485) in the Lord. In him you also are being built together (John 17:13-19, 20-24, 25-26) into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit." (ESV)
Ephesians 2:11-22 "Remember where we came from; (not only were we/you spiritually dead/asleep but) it wasn't long ago when we were still classified as non-Jewish, judging on the surface we had nothing that linked us (not counting our shared humanity as common grounds) to them. They sneered at us because we didn't share their distinguishing mark of circumcision, which was their only claim to fame! During that time we were distanced from the Messiah hope; we had nothing in common with Israel. They made us feel foreign to their covenants of prophetic promise, living a life with nothing to look forward to in a world where GOD seemed absent. But now, wow! Everything has changed; we have discovered yourselves to be located in Christ (the Messiah of Israel's fame). What once seemed so distant is now so near; his blood reveals our redeemed innocence and authentic genesis. It is in him that we are one and at peace with everyone; he dissolves every definition of division. (What we know, and now posses will put war and divorce out of business.) In his incarnation, he rendered the entire Jewish (all legalism of religious) systems of ceremonial laws and regulations useless as a measure to justify human behavior and conduct. In that he died humanity's death all grounds for contension and hostility were entirely removed, laid bear on the cross. The peace he proclaimed reveals one new human race, created and defined in Christ, instead of two groups (the first lie, that many hang too, caused this to swell to today's numbers) in people separated by their ethnic identity and differences. Both parties are fully represented and equally reconciled to GOD in one human body through the cross. He reinstated the former harmony; all opposing elements were thusly utterly defeated. On this basis he made his public appearance, proclaiming the Good News of peace to the entire human race; both those who felt left out in the cold (as far as the promises and covenants were concerned), as well as to those who were near all along (because of their Jewish identity; this next line is a quote taken from Isaiah 57:19). Because of Christ both Jew and Gentile now enjoy equal access to the Father in one Spirit. The conclusion is made clear; we are no longer frowned upon as a foreigner; we are where we belonged and are part of an intimate family unit, once again. Our lives now give tangible definition to the spiritual structure, having been built into it by GOD upon the foundation that the Prophets and Apostles proclaimed eons ago. The first evidence of this building is Jesus Christ himself being the chief cornerstone. (He is the visible testimony to the restored image and likeness of GOD in human form.) In him everyone of us is like a [1]living Lego block fitted together of the fabric (1 conversation), giving ever [2]increasing articulation to a global mobile [3]sanctuary intertwined in the LORD. (The word, [1, G4883 from G4862 and a derivative of a compound of G719 and G3004] is sunarmologeo, it comes from (G4862) sun , meaning union, and (G719) harmo meaning harmony, and (G3004) logeo meaning conversation. The word, [2, G837] auxano, means expanding with growth. The word, [3, G3485] naos, is translated as the most sacred dwelling space. Or the inner chamber of the Jewish temple where no one dared go.) In him we are co-constructed together as GOD's permanent spiritual residence (John 17:13-19, 20-24, 25-26). We are GOD's residence, address if you will." (The Mirror)
Again we have indeed covered at lot of spiritual ground. Until next time the LORD willing when we shall move on into chapter three. Until then may the LORD reveal within you and yours his temple room of GOD's indwelling.
Saturday, July 6, 2019
Friday, July 5, 2019
The saga of "The Secret of GOD", as shown in Ephesians 1:15; from the standpoint of a renewed mind and our victory as foretold.
Paul is about to rejoice over these Ephesians for their prayer life with thanksgiving a walk in their/our new life of grace and faith activated by Agape, not mans phileo, love. When these are put together as first written by Paul we can see what has been lost by the translators in their efforts to make it easier to read...first the writings had no commas, colons, semi-colons, no line breaks and no periods in them.
Ephesians 1:15-2:10 "Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory(G1391), may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation(G601) in(G1722) the knowledge(G1922) of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe(4100), according to(G1519) the working of his mighty power, which he wrought(G2904 G2479) in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all. And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship(G4161), created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained(G4282) that we should walk in them." (KJV)
Ephesians 1:15-2:10 "For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory(G1391), may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation(G601) in(G1722) the knowledge(G1922) of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe(G4100), according to(G1519) the working of his great might that he worked(G2904 G2479) in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all. And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship(G4161), created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared(G4282) beforehand, that we should walk in them." (ESV)
Ephesians 1:15-2:10 "I am sure you can appreciate how the news of your faith and love greatly inspired me. I am so happy for you; my thoughts and prayers are full of you. I desire that you willl draw directly from the source; that the GOD of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory kindles within you the spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the unveiling of his [1]Master Plan. I long for you to know by revelation what he has known about you all along! ([1]His intent,(G1391) doxa, glory. In the words (G1722, en, G1922, G602 from G601,epignosei, G846, his), en epignosei auto, Paul suggests that we might find our source in GOD's knowledge - in what it is that he knows! Look at 1Corinthians 13:12, to know even as we have always been known.) I pray that your thoughts will be flooded with light and inspired insight that you will clearly picture his intent in identifying you in him so that you may knwo how precious you are to him. What GOD possesses in your redeem innocence (righteousness) is his treasure and the glorious trophy of his inheritance (Psalm 2)! You are GOD's portion. You are the sum total of his assets and the measure of his wealth! I pray that you will be overwhelmed with an understanding of the magnitude of his power in the finished work of Christ. This what [1]results in the dynamic of [2]your faith. (The preposition [1, G1519] eis , speaks of a point reached in conclusion. The word, [2, G4102 + G3892 producing G4100] pisteuontas is of the Present participle in the Accusative case of (G4100) pisteuo [to be certain; to be persuaded] which describes an action thought of as simultaneous with the action of the main verb, which, in this case is [G2904 G2479] energeken, "which he has wrought"....[look at verse 20] which is the perfect tense of enerenergeken, to energize; to work dynamically. The use of a Perfect tense denotes an action which was completed in the past, but the effects of which are regarded as continuing into the present. And "the present" is continuing still. Paul is desiring to establish a basis for our faith that exceeds our attempts to believe! What on first observation seems impossible.) Do you want to measure the mind and muscle of GOD? Consider the force which he unleashed in Jesus Christ when he raised him from the dead and forever seated him enthroned as his executive authority [the place of His Devin origin] in the realm of the heavens. Jesus is GOD's right hand of power! He was raised up from the deepest dungeons of human despair to the highest region of heavenly bliss! [look at Ephesians 2:5-6 & 4:8-9]
Infinitely above all the combined forces of rule, authority, dominion or governments; he is ranked superior to any name that could ever be given to anyone of this age or any age still in the eternal future. I want you to see this: he subjected all these powers under his feet. He towers head and shoulders above everything. he is the head; the [1]Ekklesia is his body. The completeness of his eternal being that fills all in ALL resides in us! GOD cannot make himself more visible or exhibit himself more accurately. (The word, [1, G1577 from a compound of G1537 and a derivative of G2564] Ekklesia, comes from (G1537) ek, a preposition which always denoting origin, and klesia from (G2564) kaleo, to identify by name, to surname; thus the "church" is his redeemed image and likeness in human form.) Picture where GOD found us. we were in a death trap of an inferior lifestyle, constantly living below the [1]blueprint measured for our lives. (The word sin, is the word [1, G266 is from G264 is composed of G1 and G3313] hamartia, and it is from (G1) ha, meaning negative or without and (G3313) meros, meaning portion or form, thus to be without our allotted portion or without form, pointing to a disorientated, distorted, bankrupt identity; the word meros, is the stem of morphe, as in 2Corinthians 3:18, the word (G3339) metamorphe, means with form, which is the opposite of hamartia - without form. Sin is to live out of tune with GOD's original harmony. Look at Deuteronomy 32:18, "You have forgotten the Rock that begot you and have gotten out of step with the God who danced with you!" Hebrew (H2342), khul or kheel, to dance.) We were all part of a common pattern, swept along under a powerful invisible influence, a spirit-energy that adopted us as sons to its dictates through unbelief. Throughout that time everyone of us were warped and corrupted in our conduct; snared in a jumble of forbidden lusts, driven by the desires of the senses, completely engaged in an expression of a life ruled by mind games; it was as if a twisted passion parented a global breed of people. None of this could distract the extravagant Agape of GOD; he continued to Agape us with the exact same intensity. This is how grace rescued us: while we were yet in that state of deadness and indifference in our [1]deviations, we were co-quickened together with Christ! We had nothing to do with it. By [2]grace you are - having been saved (reddemed)! Grace defines us and interprets our salvation. (The word often translated, trespasses (G3900 from G3895), παράπτωμα paraptōma, is from (G3895 is from G3844 and G4098) para, (G3844)meaning close proximity and (G4098) pipto, to descend from a higher plan to a lower plan; to stop flying, (G4072) petomia, to fly. Losing altitude speaks of humanity's fallen mindset. Colossians 3:1-3. The sentence, Χριστός χάρις ἐστέ σάος saos literally translated, [2] "By grace you are - having been saved!" We had no contribution to our salvation! GOD's Master-Plan unfolded in the mystery of the Gospel declaring our joint inclusion in Christ's death and resurrection. This is the mystery of Grace, GOD reveals us in Christ! Now we may know, even as we have always been known! Corinthians 13:12. Of GOD's doing are we in Christ! 1Corinthians 1:30. GOD saw us in Christ, in his death and resurrection before we saw ourselves there! he declared humanity's co-resurrection with Christ in 800 BC. This is the only scripture in the entire OT that specifically mentions the third day resurrection and it includes us! "After two days he will revive us, on the third day, he will raise us up!: Hosea 6:2) We are co-included in his resurrection. We are also co-elevated in his ascension to be equally present in the Throne room of the heavenly realm where we are co-seated with him in his executive authority. We are fully represented in Christ Jesus. (We have wasted so much time trying to get there, when "there" is where we are to begin with! Our joint position in Christ defines us; this can never again be a distant goal to reach through religious devotion or striving, but our immediate location. Colossians 3:1-3. In a single triumphant act of righteousness GOD saved us from the "gutter-most" to the uttermost. here we are Now, revealed in Christ in the highest possible position of bliss! if humanity's sad history could not distract the extravagant Agape of GOD,) imagine how GOD is now able for timeless perpetuity (the eternal future) to exhibit the trophy of the wealth of his grace demonstrated in his kindness towards us in Christ jesus. Grace exhibits excessive evidence of the success of the cross. Our salvation is not a reward for good behavior! it was a grace thing from start to finish; you had no hand in it. Even the gift to believe simply reflects his faith! (Again, as in Ephesians 2:5 Paul says, Χριστός χάρις ἐστέ σάος saos, chariti este sesoosmenoi, translated, "By grace you are - having been saved! by the gift of faith; grace reveals who we are and the faithness of GOD persuades us of it. It was GOD's faith to begin with! It is from faith to faith says Paul in Romans 1:17. Jesus is both the source and conclusion of faith. Hebrews 12:2) If this could be accomplished through any action of ours then there would be grounds for boasting. We are engineered by his design; he molds and manufactures us in Christ. We are his workmanship, his [1]poetry. We are [2]fully fit to do good, equipped to give attractive evidence of his likeness in us in everything we do. (GOD finds inspired expression of Christ in us. The Greek word for workmanship is [1, G4161] poeima. GOD has done everything possible to find spontaneous and effortless expression of his character in us in our everyday lifestyle. The word, [2, G4282] proetoimatso , is translated as notion that GOD has prepared a highway for us to lead us out like kings, just like the Oriental custom, where people would go before a king to level the roads to make it possible for the king to journey with ease and comfort. [Isaiah 40:3-5])
I said before hand that the next four Epistles are loaded with divine revelation of Christ and who we are in Him. Until our next visit, the LORD willing. May he add to your understanding of who He is, in both you and yours.
Ephesians 1:15-2:10 "Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory(G1391), may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation(G601) in(G1722) the knowledge(G1922) of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe(4100), according to(G1519) the working of his mighty power, which he wrought(G2904 G2479) in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all. And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship(G4161), created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained(G4282) that we should walk in them." (KJV)
Ephesians 1:15-2:10 "For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory(G1391), may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation(G601) in(G1722) the knowledge(G1922) of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe(G4100), according to(G1519) the working of his great might that he worked(G2904 G2479) in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all. And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship(G4161), created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared(G4282) beforehand, that we should walk in them." (ESV)
Ephesians 1:15-2:10 "I am sure you can appreciate how the news of your faith and love greatly inspired me. I am so happy for you; my thoughts and prayers are full of you. I desire that you willl draw directly from the source; that the GOD of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory kindles within you the spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the unveiling of his [1]Master Plan. I long for you to know by revelation what he has known about you all along! ([1]His intent,(G1391) doxa, glory. In the words (G1722, en, G1922, G602 from G601,epignosei, G846, his), en epignosei auto, Paul suggests that we might find our source in GOD's knowledge - in what it is that he knows! Look at 1Corinthians 13:12, to know even as we have always been known.) I pray that your thoughts will be flooded with light and inspired insight that you will clearly picture his intent in identifying you in him so that you may knwo how precious you are to him. What GOD possesses in your redeem innocence (righteousness) is his treasure and the glorious trophy of his inheritance (Psalm 2)! You are GOD's portion. You are the sum total of his assets and the measure of his wealth! I pray that you will be overwhelmed with an understanding of the magnitude of his power in the finished work of Christ. This what [1]results in the dynamic of [2]your faith. (The preposition [1, G1519] eis , speaks of a point reached in conclusion. The word, [2, G4102 + G3892 producing G4100] pisteuontas is of the Present participle in the Accusative case of (G4100) pisteuo [to be certain; to be persuaded] which describes an action thought of as simultaneous with the action of the main verb, which, in this case is [G2904 G2479] energeken, "which he has wrought"....[look at verse 20] which is the perfect tense of enerenergeken, to energize; to work dynamically. The use of a Perfect tense denotes an action which was completed in the past, but the effects of which are regarded as continuing into the present. And "the present" is continuing still. Paul is desiring to establish a basis for our faith that exceeds our attempts to believe! What on first observation seems impossible.) Do you want to measure the mind and muscle of GOD? Consider the force which he unleashed in Jesus Christ when he raised him from the dead and forever seated him enthroned as his executive authority [the place of His Devin origin] in the realm of the heavens. Jesus is GOD's right hand of power! He was raised up from the deepest dungeons of human despair to the highest region of heavenly bliss! [look at Ephesians 2:5-6 & 4:8-9]
Infinitely above all the combined forces of rule, authority, dominion or governments; he is ranked superior to any name that could ever be given to anyone of this age or any age still in the eternal future. I want you to see this: he subjected all these powers under his feet. He towers head and shoulders above everything. he is the head; the [1]Ekklesia is his body. The completeness of his eternal being that fills all in ALL resides in us! GOD cannot make himself more visible or exhibit himself more accurately. (The word, [1, G1577 from a compound of G1537 and a derivative of G2564] Ekklesia, comes from (G1537) ek, a preposition which always denoting origin, and klesia from (G2564) kaleo, to identify by name, to surname; thus the "church" is his redeemed image and likeness in human form.) Picture where GOD found us. we were in a death trap of an inferior lifestyle, constantly living below the [1]blueprint measured for our lives. (The word sin, is the word [1, G266 is from G264 is composed of G1 and G3313] hamartia, and it is from (G1) ha, meaning negative or without and (G3313) meros, meaning portion or form, thus to be without our allotted portion or without form, pointing to a disorientated, distorted, bankrupt identity; the word meros, is the stem of morphe, as in 2Corinthians 3:18, the word (G3339) metamorphe, means with form, which is the opposite of hamartia - without form. Sin is to live out of tune with GOD's original harmony. Look at Deuteronomy 32:18, "You have forgotten the Rock that begot you and have gotten out of step with the God who danced with you!" Hebrew (H2342), khul or kheel, to dance.) We were all part of a common pattern, swept along under a powerful invisible influence, a spirit-energy that adopted us as sons to its dictates through unbelief. Throughout that time everyone of us were warped and corrupted in our conduct; snared in a jumble of forbidden lusts, driven by the desires of the senses, completely engaged in an expression of a life ruled by mind games; it was as if a twisted passion parented a global breed of people. None of this could distract the extravagant Agape of GOD; he continued to Agape us with the exact same intensity. This is how grace rescued us: while we were yet in that state of deadness and indifference in our [1]deviations, we were co-quickened together with Christ! We had nothing to do with it. By [2]grace you are - having been saved (reddemed)! Grace defines us and interprets our salvation. (The word often translated, trespasses (G3900 from G3895), παράπτωμα paraptōma, is from (G3895 is from G3844 and G4098) para, (G3844)meaning close proximity and (G4098) pipto, to descend from a higher plan to a lower plan; to stop flying, (G4072) petomia, to fly. Losing altitude speaks of humanity's fallen mindset. Colossians 3:1-3. The sentence, Χριστός χάρις ἐστέ σάος saos literally translated, [2] "By grace you are - having been saved!" We had no contribution to our salvation! GOD's Master-Plan unfolded in the mystery of the Gospel declaring our joint inclusion in Christ's death and resurrection. This is the mystery of Grace, GOD reveals us in Christ! Now we may know, even as we have always been known! Corinthians 13:12. Of GOD's doing are we in Christ! 1Corinthians 1:30. GOD saw us in Christ, in his death and resurrection before we saw ourselves there! he declared humanity's co-resurrection with Christ in 800 BC. This is the only scripture in the entire OT that specifically mentions the third day resurrection and it includes us! "After two days he will revive us, on the third day, he will raise us up!: Hosea 6:2) We are co-included in his resurrection. We are also co-elevated in his ascension to be equally present in the Throne room of the heavenly realm where we are co-seated with him in his executive authority. We are fully represented in Christ Jesus. (We have wasted so much time trying to get there, when "there" is where we are to begin with! Our joint position in Christ defines us; this can never again be a distant goal to reach through religious devotion or striving, but our immediate location. Colossians 3:1-3. In a single triumphant act of righteousness GOD saved us from the "gutter-most" to the uttermost. here we are Now, revealed in Christ in the highest possible position of bliss! if humanity's sad history could not distract the extravagant Agape of GOD,) imagine how GOD is now able for timeless perpetuity (the eternal future) to exhibit the trophy of the wealth of his grace demonstrated in his kindness towards us in Christ jesus. Grace exhibits excessive evidence of the success of the cross. Our salvation is not a reward for good behavior! it was a grace thing from start to finish; you had no hand in it. Even the gift to believe simply reflects his faith! (Again, as in Ephesians 2:5 Paul says, Χριστός χάρις ἐστέ σάος saos, chariti este sesoosmenoi, translated, "By grace you are - having been saved! by the gift of faith; grace reveals who we are and the faithness of GOD persuades us of it. It was GOD's faith to begin with! It is from faith to faith says Paul in Romans 1:17. Jesus is both the source and conclusion of faith. Hebrews 12:2) If this could be accomplished through any action of ours then there would be grounds for boasting. We are engineered by his design; he molds and manufactures us in Christ. We are his workmanship, his [1]poetry. We are [2]fully fit to do good, equipped to give attractive evidence of his likeness in us in everything we do. (GOD finds inspired expression of Christ in us. The Greek word for workmanship is [1, G4161] poeima. GOD has done everything possible to find spontaneous and effortless expression of his character in us in our everyday lifestyle. The word, [2, G4282] proetoimatso , is translated as notion that GOD has prepared a highway for us to lead us out like kings, just like the Oriental custom, where people would go before a king to level the roads to make it possible for the king to journey with ease and comfort. [Isaiah 40:3-5])
I said before hand that the next four Epistles are loaded with divine revelation of Christ and who we are in Him. Until our next visit, the LORD willing. May he add to your understanding of who He is, in both you and yours.
Thursday, July 4, 2019
The saga of "The Secret of GOD", as shown in Ephesians 1:1; from the standpoint of a renewed mind and our victory as foretold.
Okay, we are now coming into an even higher level of spiritual life than our just finished Galatians Epistle brought us too. This Epistle has suffered at the hands of the establishment of the Jews from its beginning as did Paul himself a most misunderstood called out from among man of Jewish linage. This Epistle with that of Colossians unmasked the mystery of Christ in every man and child born of woman as being of the body of Christ from their inception. These Epistles when rightly divided revolutionize our thinking with a clearer perception of mindset. Because of the power of the cross and the energy of the Holy Spirit, in full operation within us as in the beginning, as seen in Genesis 2. So lets jump into it and discover this power for ourselves shall we? And then apply it to our every day life and new lifestyle.
Ephesians 1:1-2, 3-14 "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation(G2602 from G2598) of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before(G2714) him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: That in the dispensation(G3622) of the fullness of times he might gather together in one(G346) all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: That we should be to the praise of his glory(G1391), who first trusted in Christ. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word(G3056) of truth(G225), the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory." (KJV)
Ephesians 1:1-2, 3-14 "Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation(G2602 from G2598) of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before(G2714) him. In love he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time(G3622), to unite all things(G346) in him, things in heaven and things on earth. In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory(G1391). In him you also, when you heard the word(G3056) of truth(G225), the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, Who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory." (ESV)
Ephesians 1:1-2, 3-14 "Paul, employed by the resolve of GOD and commissioned to represent Jesus Christ to the Saints in Ephesus and also to every believer in Christ Jesus. I greet you with the grace and peace that proceeds from GOD the Father and the LORD Jesus Christ.
Let's celebrate GOD! He lavishes every blessing heaven has to give upon us in Christ! He associated us in Christ even before [1]the fall of the world! Jesus is GOD's mind made up about us! He always knew in his own Agape that he would present us again [2]face to face before himself in blameless innocence. (The implications of the fall are completely cancelled, neutralized, whipped out. Paul uses the word, [1, G2598] kataballo, meaning "to fall away, to put in a lower place," instead of (G2310) themelios, meaning "foundation" [used in Ephesians 2:20]; this, translated "the fall of the world," instead of "the foundation of the world." The entire "Fall" was a falling away in our minds from our true identity as the image and likeness bearers of Elohim. Just like Eve, were we all deceived to believe a lie about ourselves, which is the fruit of the "I-am-not-tree." We all, like sheep have gone astray. [Isaiah 53:6] GOD founded us in Christ before he lost us in Adam! We are presented in blameless innocence before him! The word, [2, G2714 from G2596 and G1799] katenopion, suggests the closest possible proximity, face-to-face, as it were!
Our in-Christ is not the result of a lucky draw! Calvinism lied to you! Neither is it the result of your "choice" to follow Jesus! Something doesn't become true by popular vote! Or by belief! if it wasn't true to begin with, we're wasting our time and energy trying to "believe" it is true! Faith happens to us when we encounter the good announcement! of GOD's doing are we all IN CHRIST....(1Corinthians 1:30) For "evangelical theology" to miss the meaning of humanity's inclusion IN CHRIST before they knew it or believed it, is to completely miss the mark and point of our co-death, co-descent into hell, and co-resurrection and co-ascension of Jesus! This would make Jesus irrelevant and reduce the salvation of our humanity, the human race to its own fate managed by institutionalized religion, attached to mere sentiment values of a historic Jesus who died and rose again. But by dieing our death as fully GOD and fully human, once and for all time (not for a "select few!"), death became the doorway, whereby Jesus would enter into our hell of judgment and its deepest darkness and sense of lostness and loneliness leads us as his trophies and relocated us to a face to face with our Father, the father of the universe! Ephesians 4:7-9 in the Mirror Bible! all this has happened while we were still dead in our trespasses and sin nature of believing the lie! Ephesians 2:5-6, Co-quickened, co-raised, co-seated in his Executive authority [his right hand]. Now ponder Colossians 3:1-3 and engage your thoughts with the Throne room realities!) He is the architect of our design; his heart dream realized our [1]coming of age in Christ. ( Adoption here is not what it means in our Western society. It is a coming of age, like the typical Jewish Barmitsva, Look at Galatians 4:1-6, "....and to seal our sonship the spirit of his Son echoes Abba Father in our hearts." This is [1] huiothesia.) His grace-plan is to be celebrated: he greatly endeared us and highly esteems us in Christ. His Agape for his Son is his Agape for us. (The Gospel is not about telling people how lost they are, but is rather about telling them how Agaped they are!) Since we are (fully represented) in him, his blood is the ransom that secures our redemption. His forgiving our sins measures the wealth of his grace. This grace shown towards us communicates his wisdom and discernment of our worth that completely surpasses any definition. The secret is out! His cherished Agape dream now unfolds in front of our very eyes. In the [1]economy of the fullness of time, everything culminated in Christ. All that is in heaven and all that is on earth is reconciled in him. Jesus is the [1]consummation of the ages! (The word, [1, G3622 from G3623] oikonomia, translates as administration. The word, ἀνακεφαλαίομαι is the Aorist Infinitive of (G346 from G303 and G2776) anakephalaiomai, which has two components, (G303) ana, meaning upwards and (G2776) kephale, meaning head, pointing to a condition where no separation exists - the return to our Source. The Aorist Infinitive presents the action expressed by the verb as a complete unit with a beginning and end.
"All human history consummated in Christ; everything that exists in heaven or earth shall find its perfection and fulfillment in Him!" "All that is in heaven, all that is on earth, summed up in Him!" from Phillips and Knox translations) This is how we fit into GOD's picture: Christ is the measure of our portion, we are in him, invented and defined in him. GOD's blueprint intention is on exhibition in us. everything he accomplishes is inspired by the energy and intent of his affection. ( ook at Romans 8:29, "He engineered us from the start to fit the mold of sonship and likeness according to the exact blueprint of his design. We see the original and intent shape of our lives presented in his Son; he is the firstborn from the same womb that reveals our genesis. He confirms that we are the invention of almighty GOD!" ) It was our initial privilege (as Jews) to cherish the Messiah hope; our lives in Christ were destined to prophetically promote the celebration of his [1]glorious plan with humanity ([1, G1391] doxa, means intent, opinion.) Now you (Gentiles) also have discovered yourselves to be equally included (yoked) in him having witnessed [1]the unveiled [2]logic of GOD. What exciting news! Your salvation is publicly announced. Consistent with the promise of GOD, the Holy Spirit gives us his guarantee to this fact of our faith, like the stamp of a signet ring or the seal of a notary certifies a document. You are in Him! (The word, [1, G3056] logic, is from logos, or the truth. The word, [2, G225 from G227] althea, comes from (G227 from G1 and G2990) a+lanthano, meaning not hidden.) the Holy Spirit is our [1]tangible link to the inheritance that was ransomed and presented for us.. GOD's glorious plan for humanity is the theme of our celebration. ([1, G728 from H6162] Guarantee, or earnest comes from arrhabon, a Hebrew word(H6162) meaning to braid, as two parties intertwined by giving something as surety and pledge. the pledge represents the full transaction. The legal document or title deed represents the complete value of the transaction. Like a wedding ring represents the marriage.) ( The Mirror)
I said that this Epistle would take us to higher ground and it has not failed to get us there from the first paragraph. Now may the LORD GOD our redeemed richly bless you and your in his revelation of promise.
Ephesians 1:1-2, 3-14 "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation(G2602 from G2598) of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before(G2714) him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: That in the dispensation(G3622) of the fullness of times he might gather together in one(G346) all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: That we should be to the praise of his glory(G1391), who first trusted in Christ. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word(G3056) of truth(G225), the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory." (KJV)
Ephesians 1:1-2, 3-14 "Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation(G2602 from G2598) of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before(G2714) him. In love he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time(G3622), to unite all things(G346) in him, things in heaven and things on earth. In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory(G1391). In him you also, when you heard the word(G3056) of truth(G225), the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, Who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory." (ESV)
Ephesians 1:1-2, 3-14 "Paul, employed by the resolve of GOD and commissioned to represent Jesus Christ to the Saints in Ephesus and also to every believer in Christ Jesus. I greet you with the grace and peace that proceeds from GOD the Father and the LORD Jesus Christ.
Let's celebrate GOD! He lavishes every blessing heaven has to give upon us in Christ! He associated us in Christ even before [1]the fall of the world! Jesus is GOD's mind made up about us! He always knew in his own Agape that he would present us again [2]face to face before himself in blameless innocence. (The implications of the fall are completely cancelled, neutralized, whipped out. Paul uses the word, [1, G2598] kataballo, meaning "to fall away, to put in a lower place," instead of (G2310) themelios, meaning "foundation" [used in Ephesians 2:20]; this, translated "the fall of the world," instead of "the foundation of the world." The entire "Fall" was a falling away in our minds from our true identity as the image and likeness bearers of Elohim. Just like Eve, were we all deceived to believe a lie about ourselves, which is the fruit of the "I-am-not-tree." We all, like sheep have gone astray. [Isaiah 53:6] GOD founded us in Christ before he lost us in Adam! We are presented in blameless innocence before him! The word, [2, G2714 from G2596 and G1799] katenopion, suggests the closest possible proximity, face-to-face, as it were!
Our in-Christ is not the result of a lucky draw! Calvinism lied to you! Neither is it the result of your "choice" to follow Jesus! Something doesn't become true by popular vote! Or by belief! if it wasn't true to begin with, we're wasting our time and energy trying to "believe" it is true! Faith happens to us when we encounter the good announcement! of GOD's doing are we all IN CHRIST....(1Corinthians 1:30) For "evangelical theology" to miss the meaning of humanity's inclusion IN CHRIST before they knew it or believed it, is to completely miss the mark and point of our co-death, co-descent into hell, and co-resurrection and co-ascension of Jesus! This would make Jesus irrelevant and reduce the salvation of our humanity, the human race to its own fate managed by institutionalized religion, attached to mere sentiment values of a historic Jesus who died and rose again. But by dieing our death as fully GOD and fully human, once and for all time (not for a "select few!"), death became the doorway, whereby Jesus would enter into our hell of judgment and its deepest darkness and sense of lostness and loneliness leads us as his trophies and relocated us to a face to face with our Father, the father of the universe! Ephesians 4:7-9 in the Mirror Bible! all this has happened while we were still dead in our trespasses and sin nature of believing the lie! Ephesians 2:5-6, Co-quickened, co-raised, co-seated in his Executive authority [his right hand]. Now ponder Colossians 3:1-3 and engage your thoughts with the Throne room realities!) He is the architect of our design; his heart dream realized our [1]coming of age in Christ. ( Adoption here is not what it means in our Western society. It is a coming of age, like the typical Jewish Barmitsva, Look at Galatians 4:1-6, "....and to seal our sonship the spirit of his Son echoes Abba Father in our hearts." This is [1] huiothesia.) His grace-plan is to be celebrated: he greatly endeared us and highly esteems us in Christ. His Agape for his Son is his Agape for us. (The Gospel is not about telling people how lost they are, but is rather about telling them how Agaped they are!) Since we are (fully represented) in him, his blood is the ransom that secures our redemption. His forgiving our sins measures the wealth of his grace. This grace shown towards us communicates his wisdom and discernment of our worth that completely surpasses any definition. The secret is out! His cherished Agape dream now unfolds in front of our very eyes. In the [1]economy of the fullness of time, everything culminated in Christ. All that is in heaven and all that is on earth is reconciled in him. Jesus is the [1]consummation of the ages! (The word, [1, G3622 from G3623] oikonomia, translates as administration. The word, ἀνακεφαλαίομαι is the Aorist Infinitive of (G346 from G303 and G2776) anakephalaiomai, which has two components, (G303) ana, meaning upwards and (G2776) kephale, meaning head, pointing to a condition where no separation exists - the return to our Source. The Aorist Infinitive presents the action expressed by the verb as a complete unit with a beginning and end.
"All human history consummated in Christ; everything that exists in heaven or earth shall find its perfection and fulfillment in Him!" "All that is in heaven, all that is on earth, summed up in Him!" from Phillips and Knox translations) This is how we fit into GOD's picture: Christ is the measure of our portion, we are in him, invented and defined in him. GOD's blueprint intention is on exhibition in us. everything he accomplishes is inspired by the energy and intent of his affection. ( ook at Romans 8:29, "He engineered us from the start to fit the mold of sonship and likeness according to the exact blueprint of his design. We see the original and intent shape of our lives presented in his Son; he is the firstborn from the same womb that reveals our genesis. He confirms that we are the invention of almighty GOD!" ) It was our initial privilege (as Jews) to cherish the Messiah hope; our lives in Christ were destined to prophetically promote the celebration of his [1]glorious plan with humanity ([1, G1391] doxa, means intent, opinion.) Now you (Gentiles) also have discovered yourselves to be equally included (yoked) in him having witnessed [1]the unveiled [2]logic of GOD. What exciting news! Your salvation is publicly announced. Consistent with the promise of GOD, the Holy Spirit gives us his guarantee to this fact of our faith, like the stamp of a signet ring or the seal of a notary certifies a document. You are in Him! (The word, [1, G3056] logic, is from logos, or the truth. The word, [2, G225 from G227] althea, comes from (G227 from G1 and G2990) a+lanthano, meaning not hidden.) the Holy Spirit is our [1]tangible link to the inheritance that was ransomed and presented for us.. GOD's glorious plan for humanity is the theme of our celebration. ([1, G728 from H6162] Guarantee, or earnest comes from arrhabon, a Hebrew word(H6162) meaning to braid, as two parties intertwined by giving something as surety and pledge. the pledge represents the full transaction. The legal document or title deed represents the complete value of the transaction. Like a wedding ring represents the marriage.) ( The Mirror)
I said that this Epistle would take us to higher ground and it has not failed to get us there from the first paragraph. Now may the LORD GOD our redeemed richly bless you and your in his revelation of promise.
The saga of "The Secret of GOD", as shown in Ephesians Inroduction; from the standpoint of a renewed mind and our victory as foretold.
This Introduction to Paul's Ephesians Epistle is taken from the Mirror Study Bible which has a GOD view kind of mindset written within it. This is the same or very similar mindset that developed within me over the years of doing the studies of Christ Jesus in response to his question of Matthew 11:29, which is, "Are you ready to learn of Me?"
"In poetic articulation Paul unfolds the message of the mystery of Christ as representing humanity. He is absolutely passionate in his prayers and desires for everyone to see and comprehend how completely associated they are in Christ. GOD found us in Christ before he lost us in Adam.
Ephesians 1:10 "In the economy of the fullness of time, everything culminated in Christ; all that is in heaven and all that is on earth is reconciled in him."
He see heaven not as a distant goal for us to strive towards, but how completely GOD has already lavished upon us every blessing heaven has in Christ. This is our point of departure! WE are co-raised and co-seated together with Christ in heacenly places to begin with! Long before anyone but GOD believed it we were made alive together with Christ; "I desire that you know by revelation what he has known about you all along! I pray that your thoughts will be flooded with his light and inspired insight."
Ephesians 2:10 "We are engineered by his design; he molded and manufactured us in Christ design. We are his workmanship, his poetry. We are fully fit to do good, equipped to give attractive evidence of his likeness in us in everything we do."
Ephesians 3:4 "In reading these words you will perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ."
Ephesians 3:20 "We celebrate his who supercharges us powerfully from within. Our biggest request or most amazing dream cannot match the extravagant proportion of his thoughts towards us."
Ephesians 4:7 "The gift of Christ gives dimension to grace and defines our individual value."
Ephesians 4:23 "Be renewed in your innermost mind! It will cause you to be completely reprogrammed in the way you think about yourself!"
Ephesians 4:15 "Agape gives truth its voice. The conversation that truth inspires creates the atmosphere wherein growth is both spontaneous and inevitable. The whole person is addressed in Christ who is the head of the body; he is the conclusion of GOD's communication with humanity."
Ephesians 4:16 "From him flows the original composition and detail of our design. Like words entwined in poetry, they connect layer upon layer to complete the harmony, following the rhythm of his thoughts like footprints. Meanwhile the body thrives and pulsates with the energy of Agape. Each individual expression finds its complete measure there."
Ephesians 4:21 "It is not possible to study Christ in any other context; he is the incarnation; hear his resonate within you! The truth about you has its ultimate reference in Jesus."
He did not come to introduce a new compromised set of rules; he is not an example for us but of us!"
Ephesians 5:14 "This is the message of light; Christ awakens in you from your intoxicated slumber and resurrects you out of the death trap of enslavement's thought patterns." (The Mirror)
With our next visit the LORD GOD willing we shall begin Ephesians. Until then may the LORD Christ do in you and your what has been established already herein.
"In poetic articulation Paul unfolds the message of the mystery of Christ as representing humanity. He is absolutely passionate in his prayers and desires for everyone to see and comprehend how completely associated they are in Christ. GOD found us in Christ before he lost us in Adam.
Ephesians 1:10 "In the economy of the fullness of time, everything culminated in Christ; all that is in heaven and all that is on earth is reconciled in him."
He see heaven not as a distant goal for us to strive towards, but how completely GOD has already lavished upon us every blessing heaven has in Christ. This is our point of departure! WE are co-raised and co-seated together with Christ in heacenly places to begin with! Long before anyone but GOD believed it we were made alive together with Christ; "I desire that you know by revelation what he has known about you all along! I pray that your thoughts will be flooded with his light and inspired insight."
Ephesians 2:10 "We are engineered by his design; he molded and manufactured us in Christ design. We are his workmanship, his poetry. We are fully fit to do good, equipped to give attractive evidence of his likeness in us in everything we do."
Ephesians 3:4 "In reading these words you will perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ."
Ephesians 3:20 "We celebrate his who supercharges us powerfully from within. Our biggest request or most amazing dream cannot match the extravagant proportion of his thoughts towards us."
Ephesians 4:7 "The gift of Christ gives dimension to grace and defines our individual value."
Ephesians 4:23 "Be renewed in your innermost mind! It will cause you to be completely reprogrammed in the way you think about yourself!"
Ephesians 4:15 "Agape gives truth its voice. The conversation that truth inspires creates the atmosphere wherein growth is both spontaneous and inevitable. The whole person is addressed in Christ who is the head of the body; he is the conclusion of GOD's communication with humanity."
Ephesians 4:16 "From him flows the original composition and detail of our design. Like words entwined in poetry, they connect layer upon layer to complete the harmony, following the rhythm of his thoughts like footprints. Meanwhile the body thrives and pulsates with the energy of Agape. Each individual expression finds its complete measure there."
Ephesians 4:21 "It is not possible to study Christ in any other context; he is the incarnation; hear his resonate within you! The truth about you has its ultimate reference in Jesus."
He did not come to introduce a new compromised set of rules; he is not an example for us but of us!"
Ephesians 5:14 "This is the message of light; Christ awakens in you from your intoxicated slumber and resurrects you out of the death trap of enslavement's thought patterns." (The Mirror)
With our next visit the LORD GOD willing we shall begin Ephesians. Until then may the LORD Christ do in you and your what has been established already herein.
Wednesday, July 3, 2019
The saga of "The Secret of GOD", as revealed in Galatians 6:11; with a renewed mind and our victory as foretold.
We are to come face to face with another warning given by Paul against the acceptance of the legalisms of religions deceptions that brings delusional minds, this we shall see in his Thessalonian letters, if the LORD allows us to go on that far. It is these warnings that keeps many of the religious mindset from seeking or speaking of Paul's revelation of our being One humanity in Christ's humanity. For we are about to enter another of the higher levels of Christ's revelation in the Ephesians Epistle. For either these are greatly misunderstood or deliberately over looked to say the least, either of which tells me that these institutions are Holy Spirit ground.
Galatians 6:11-16, 17, 18 "Ye see how large a letter I have written unto you with mine own hand. As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh. But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.
From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus.
Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. To the Galatians written from Rome." (KJV)
Galatians 6:11-16, 17, 18 "See with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand. It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh who would force you to be circumcised, and only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. For even those who are circumcised do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may boast in your flesh. But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation. And as for all who walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God.
From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen." (ESV)
Galatians 6:11-16, 17, 18 "To raise the urgency in my voice, I will write the following in my own hand and in large letters: Those who urge you to be circumcised are only trying to avoid persecution for the cross of Christ. They prefer to be popular with their fellow Jewish colleagues and thusly compromise the message of the cross. To them it is only the outward sign in the flesh that matters. It is not even so much for the Law that they are concerned, they just want to boast in your flesh, as a sign that they successfully recruited you for their cause. May my boasting be in nothing but the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through Whom the world (Humanity) has been crucified to me and I to the world. The religious-systems and applause of this world have no appeal to me. As far as they are concerned, I am like a dead person. The new creation of Christ steals the show; not whether someone is circumcised or not! (GOD associates us as Christ; when he died we died, when he rose again we were raised with him in newness of his, our life. One.) Our union with Christ sets the pace and makes us the true Israel of GOD, not whether we are Jew or Gentile, circumcised or not! Oh, what peace we discover in his mercy! This rule is the law we submit ourselves to as the principle of our daily walk!
I will not be troubled anymore. I already bear enough scars in my body that brand me as being under the ownership of Jesus. (Those scars that I carry from being persecuted for this Gospel are more significant to me than the scar of circumcision!)
Friends and sisters, may the revelation of the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be the rule of your spirit. Amen!" (The Mirror)
And so ends Galatians warning. The LORD willing we shall begin the Ephesian letter in our next post. Till then, may our LORD and GOD increase within you and yours his revelation of who you are in his sight. A place of understanding that few acquire, that I am sure.
Galatians 6:11-16, 17, 18 "Ye see how large a letter I have written unto you with mine own hand. As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh. But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.
From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus.
Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. To the Galatians written from Rome." (KJV)
Galatians 6:11-16, 17, 18 "See with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand. It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh who would force you to be circumcised, and only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. For even those who are circumcised do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may boast in your flesh. But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation. And as for all who walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God.
From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen." (ESV)
Galatians 6:11-16, 17, 18 "To raise the urgency in my voice, I will write the following in my own hand and in large letters: Those who urge you to be circumcised are only trying to avoid persecution for the cross of Christ. They prefer to be popular with their fellow Jewish colleagues and thusly compromise the message of the cross. To them it is only the outward sign in the flesh that matters. It is not even so much for the Law that they are concerned, they just want to boast in your flesh, as a sign that they successfully recruited you for their cause. May my boasting be in nothing but the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through Whom the world (Humanity) has been crucified to me and I to the world. The religious-systems and applause of this world have no appeal to me. As far as they are concerned, I am like a dead person. The new creation of Christ steals the show; not whether someone is circumcised or not! (GOD associates us as Christ; when he died we died, when he rose again we were raised with him in newness of his, our life. One.) Our union with Christ sets the pace and makes us the true Israel of GOD, not whether we are Jew or Gentile, circumcised or not! Oh, what peace we discover in his mercy! This rule is the law we submit ourselves to as the principle of our daily walk!
I will not be troubled anymore. I already bear enough scars in my body that brand me as being under the ownership of Jesus. (Those scars that I carry from being persecuted for this Gospel are more significant to me than the scar of circumcision!)
Friends and sisters, may the revelation of the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be the rule of your spirit. Amen!" (The Mirror)
And so ends Galatians warning. The LORD willing we shall begin the Ephesian letter in our next post. Till then, may our LORD and GOD increase within you and yours his revelation of who you are in his sight. A place of understanding that few acquire, that I am sure.
Tuesday, July 2, 2019
The saga of "The Secret of GOD", as shown in Galatians 6:1; from the standpoint of a renewed mind and our victory as foretold.
Now that we are free men, we are to share our lives with others as witnesses of GOD in us, as we live in the Christ-likeness of his life, in abundance and peaces prosperity of blessedness. Having come out from among them trapped in their own coral, of the world order of chaos and confusion in religions legalism and slavery to its many rites, rituals, feasts, customs, Sabbaths, or holidays, another such practises, all done in the name of GOD.
Galatians 6:1-5, 6-10 "Brethren, if a man be overtaken(G4301) in a fault(G3900), ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For every man shall bear his own burden.
Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith." (KJV)
Galatians 6:1-5, 6-10 "Brothers, if anyone is caught(G4301) in any transgression(G3900), you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor. For each will have to bear his own load.
Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches. Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith." (ESV)
Galatians 6:1-5, 6-10 "Friends and sisters, if it seems that someone continues to [1]anticipate their next [2]failure (by carrying just too much of a load, see verse 2), from your position in faith restore such a person in a spirit of courtesy and grace, keeping your own attitude in check; a legalistic approach would want to suspiciously probe into problems. (The word, [1,G4301 from G4253 and G2983] prolambano , means to anticipate, to take in advance; [2,G3900 from G3895, to apostatize, and from G3844 and G4098] paraptoma, comes from (G3844) para, close proximity, proceeding from a sphere of influence, and (G4098) pipto, means to lose height, stop flying, to fail. Remember you represent grace not Law.) The law of the Christ-like distinguishes your spirituality; taking the weight off someone's shoulder is fulfilling the law of Christ. (The message of grace removes all Law-related burdens such as guilt, suspicions, inferiority, shame, and a sin-consciousness.) Anyone who imagines to be someone they are not, lives a lie. (The Law system sponsors pretense; grace reveals our ture identity redeemed in Christ.) Now, without the pressure of pretense, you are free to give expression to your individual self and not some phony life you're trying to fake. Evaluate your own conduct in such a way that you do not need another's approval to confirm your joy. Everyone ultimately lives their own life (even though we share our lives with one another).
Both student and teacher draw from the same source; they equally participate in ever good thing. The word they share echoes its distinct resonance within them. Show-business does not deceive GOD! Do not be led astray and then pull your nose up at GOD, as if it was GOD who let you down. The harvest always reveals the seed. The flesh cannot compete with the spirit; just like with Adam, the fruit of the DIY tree still produces death, while faith produces the spirit fruit of the life of the ages, the GOD-kind of life. Every good deed has a predictable harvest. Let's not get discouraged in the in-between times. (Make sure your good deeds are love-driven rather than duty-driven. Faith works by agape, duty by willpower.) Let us take advantage of every opportunity to be a blessing to everyone we meet, without neglecting our fellow faith family." (The Mirror)
Now we are about to close the Galatians letter with another warning by Paul. Until next time may the LORD richly bless you and yours in his peace.
Galatians 6:1-5, 6-10 "Brethren, if a man be overtaken(G4301) in a fault(G3900), ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For every man shall bear his own burden.
Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith." (KJV)
Galatians 6:1-5, 6-10 "Brothers, if anyone is caught(G4301) in any transgression(G3900), you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor. For each will have to bear his own load.
Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches. Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith." (ESV)
Galatians 6:1-5, 6-10 "Friends and sisters, if it seems that someone continues to [1]anticipate their next [2]failure (by carrying just too much of a load, see verse 2), from your position in faith restore such a person in a spirit of courtesy and grace, keeping your own attitude in check; a legalistic approach would want to suspiciously probe into problems. (The word, [1,G4301 from G4253 and G2983] prolambano , means to anticipate, to take in advance; [2,G3900 from G3895, to apostatize, and from G3844 and G4098] paraptoma, comes from (G3844) para, close proximity, proceeding from a sphere of influence, and (G4098) pipto, means to lose height, stop flying, to fail. Remember you represent grace not Law.) The law of the Christ-like distinguishes your spirituality; taking the weight off someone's shoulder is fulfilling the law of Christ. (The message of grace removes all Law-related burdens such as guilt, suspicions, inferiority, shame, and a sin-consciousness.) Anyone who imagines to be someone they are not, lives a lie. (The Law system sponsors pretense; grace reveals our ture identity redeemed in Christ.) Now, without the pressure of pretense, you are free to give expression to your individual self and not some phony life you're trying to fake. Evaluate your own conduct in such a way that you do not need another's approval to confirm your joy. Everyone ultimately lives their own life (even though we share our lives with one another).
Both student and teacher draw from the same source; they equally participate in ever good thing. The word they share echoes its distinct resonance within them. Show-business does not deceive GOD! Do not be led astray and then pull your nose up at GOD, as if it was GOD who let you down. The harvest always reveals the seed. The flesh cannot compete with the spirit; just like with Adam, the fruit of the DIY tree still produces death, while faith produces the spirit fruit of the life of the ages, the GOD-kind of life. Every good deed has a predictable harvest. Let's not get discouraged in the in-between times. (Make sure your good deeds are love-driven rather than duty-driven. Faith works by agape, duty by willpower.) Let us take advantage of every opportunity to be a blessing to everyone we meet, without neglecting our fellow faith family." (The Mirror)
Now we are about to close the Galatians letter with another warning by Paul. Until next time may the LORD richly bless you and yours in his peace.
Monday, July 1, 2019
The saga of "The Secret of GOD", as shown in Galatians 5:16; from the standpoint of a renewed mind and our victory as foretold.
Paul in this section of his Galatians Epistle is revealing how it is to walk as spirit beings once again. This is missed by so many who lesson to men of "renown" or so they claim. I have found that to lesson to the Spirit often contracts what these people say as I have grown in the LORD, or should I say that the LORD has grown in me, just as he is to also do in you.
Galatians 5:16-24, 25-26 "This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the Law. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no Law. And they that are Christ's have (acknowledged their co-circifixion in Christ's humanity) crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another." (KJV)
Galatians 5:16-24, 25-26 "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no Law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have (acknowledged their co-circifixion in Christ's humanity) crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another." (ESV)
Galatians 5:16-24, 25-26 "I conclude: let spirit be the dominant influence in your daily walk and see how it defeats the cravings of the flesh. (Spirit is satisfied by the agape law, the revelation of grace; flesh craves to prove and gratify itself by the old DIY Law. Faith defeats flesh works.) While the Law of works still features in your mind, it is a catalyst to disaster; you are caught in the middle of a war zone, wanting to do the things that you desire by the Law's design, but finding the flesh is strong resistance to what the re-genesised spirit desires. (The two trees, the flesh and the spirit, represent two opposing systems or forces of influence, two separate mind-sets; while the tree of life represents the inner-life of our original design, the "I-am-not" tree or what I call the DIY-Tree is external to the real person; but while hosted, like a virus, its influence becomes unavoidable and very visible. Paul compares the fruit of righteousness (our original innocence) by faith working through agape versus the works of the flesh and guilt performance based on obligation, guilt and sheer willpower. Look at Romans 3:27 and 7.) Those who are led by the spirit (of faith awakened) are free from the Law (of personal performance. [look at 3:3]) The typical lifestyle wherever a legalistic judgmental attitude prevails is one where sexual sins are rampant! Anything goes: adultery, filth, and outrageous licentiousness. Then there is the worshipping of a distorted image of oneself, which is what idolatry is all about; drugs, hatred, constant conflict, jealous suspicions, violent outbursts of rage, everyone for himself in a cut-throat competitive world, trampling on others to get to the top, dissensions, heresies, and manipulating of people's minds with false teachings. (The flesh is not our "lower nature;" it is the fruit of the "I-am-not" tree system; it is a mind-set governed by a sense of lack and desperation trying to do life by sheer willpower, independent of our Source.) This is such a sad picture of a life consumed with envious self pity, murder, drunken stupor, intoxicated licentiousness and lust, with all the quarrels and jealousies it ignites. As I have stated before those who are practicing this kind of lifestyle have nothing in common with the inner Kingdom of GOD. (The authority of the Christ-life opposes and defeats the dominance of the flesh.) Spirit effortlessly bears the rich harvest of agape, joy, peace (overwhelming prosperity of soul), patience, kindness, goodness, integrity, gentleness and self control; all these individually reveal the irresistible attraction of the inner-life of our (origin by) design. (They are not fading, fragile emotions produced by willpower. This is the fruit of what we know in your spirit to be true about us (you and me). Fruit is the effortless, spontaneous expression of the character of the tree. Rest in the awareness and assurance of who we really are!) Legalism can neither match nor contradict this. There is no law against Agape! (Love does not compete with Law; Love is extravagant in its exhibition of the Christ life restored to life within.) Those who understand that their righteousness is of Christ and that it does not come as a reward for their abilities to keep a Law, have discovered that their flesh with its dictates and lusts were co-crucified with Christ. (Galatians 2:20 and 5:18)
Because faith defines us and not our flesh, we take our lead from the Spirit in our daily conduct. There is an authority in our step; we are marching in rank like soldiers! (The Christ life is the dominant authority in the universe!) Quit your efforts to try and impress one another. The Law of works reduces your life to envious comparison and petty competition, while agape only always seeks the advantage of the others good! (This means total freedom from any external superficial Law!) (The Mirror)
This brings us to the end of chapter 5, we shall the LORD willing begin chapter 6 with our next visit. Until then may the LORD increase your and yours understanding of this revelation of Christ within us.
Galatians 5:16-24, 25-26 "This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the Law. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no Law. And they that are Christ's have (acknowledged their co-circifixion in Christ's humanity) crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another." (KJV)
Galatians 5:16-24, 25-26 "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no Law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have (acknowledged their co-circifixion in Christ's humanity) crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another." (ESV)
Galatians 5:16-24, 25-26 "I conclude: let spirit be the dominant influence in your daily walk and see how it defeats the cravings of the flesh. (Spirit is satisfied by the agape law, the revelation of grace; flesh craves to prove and gratify itself by the old DIY Law. Faith defeats flesh works.) While the Law of works still features in your mind, it is a catalyst to disaster; you are caught in the middle of a war zone, wanting to do the things that you desire by the Law's design, but finding the flesh is strong resistance to what the re-genesised spirit desires. (The two trees, the flesh and the spirit, represent two opposing systems or forces of influence, two separate mind-sets; while the tree of life represents the inner-life of our original design, the "I-am-not" tree or what I call the DIY-Tree is external to the real person; but while hosted, like a virus, its influence becomes unavoidable and very visible. Paul compares the fruit of righteousness (our original innocence) by faith working through agape versus the works of the flesh and guilt performance based on obligation, guilt and sheer willpower. Look at Romans 3:27 and 7.) Those who are led by the spirit (of faith awakened) are free from the Law (of personal performance. [look at 3:3]) The typical lifestyle wherever a legalistic judgmental attitude prevails is one where sexual sins are rampant! Anything goes: adultery, filth, and outrageous licentiousness. Then there is the worshipping of a distorted image of oneself, which is what idolatry is all about; drugs, hatred, constant conflict, jealous suspicions, violent outbursts of rage, everyone for himself in a cut-throat competitive world, trampling on others to get to the top, dissensions, heresies, and manipulating of people's minds with false teachings. (The flesh is not our "lower nature;" it is the fruit of the "I-am-not" tree system; it is a mind-set governed by a sense of lack and desperation trying to do life by sheer willpower, independent of our Source.) This is such a sad picture of a life consumed with envious self pity, murder, drunken stupor, intoxicated licentiousness and lust, with all the quarrels and jealousies it ignites. As I have stated before those who are practicing this kind of lifestyle have nothing in common with the inner Kingdom of GOD. (The authority of the Christ-life opposes and defeats the dominance of the flesh.) Spirit effortlessly bears the rich harvest of agape, joy, peace (overwhelming prosperity of soul), patience, kindness, goodness, integrity, gentleness and self control; all these individually reveal the irresistible attraction of the inner-life of our (origin by) design. (They are not fading, fragile emotions produced by willpower. This is the fruit of what we know in your spirit to be true about us (you and me). Fruit is the effortless, spontaneous expression of the character of the tree. Rest in the awareness and assurance of who we really are!) Legalism can neither match nor contradict this. There is no law against Agape! (Love does not compete with Law; Love is extravagant in its exhibition of the Christ life restored to life within.) Those who understand that their righteousness is of Christ and that it does not come as a reward for their abilities to keep a Law, have discovered that their flesh with its dictates and lusts were co-crucified with Christ. (Galatians 2:20 and 5:18)
Because faith defines us and not our flesh, we take our lead from the Spirit in our daily conduct. There is an authority in our step; we are marching in rank like soldiers! (The Christ life is the dominant authority in the universe!) Quit your efforts to try and impress one another. The Law of works reduces your life to envious comparison and petty competition, while agape only always seeks the advantage of the others good! (This means total freedom from any external superficial Law!) (The Mirror)
This brings us to the end of chapter 5, we shall the LORD willing begin chapter 6 with our next visit. Until then may the LORD increase your and yours understanding of this revelation of Christ within us.
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