Daily Bread - 05/11/07
Romans 8:18 - For I calculate that this which befalls us now for a season is not worthy of the glory that is about to be revealed in us.
Paul's calculation is that the level of suffering that we endure now is not even in the same category with the glory that is about to be revealed. When Paul was writing to the Corinthians he referred to this suffering as a light affliction (2 Corinthians 4:17). The Greek word that Paul uses to help us put things into proper prospective is "logizomai" which refers to a logical reality. Now the logical calculation is that the suffering is so insignificant in comparison to the glory that it is almost meaningless.
How are we supposed to deal with the suffering and pain that we encounter here in this life? Paul, who had more than his share of opposition and turmoil, reveals to us how to live life free from discouragement. All we need to do is realize that the hand of God is shaping us for greatness both now and in the future. We must realize that He is not only with us through these things but He is so close to us that we are under His shadow (Psalms 91:1). We must realize that whatever groanings we may encounter today will be overshadowed by the glorious liberties of tomorrow. As a result, we will not lose our confidence and joy which will result in a great reward (Hebrews 10:35; 3:6; 11:26).
Jesus endured the sufferings of the cross with joy realizing that it would result in our salvation and His exaltation (Hebrews 12:2). We are also called to share in the same sufferings of Christ which are all about advancing the gospel but it must be kept in the same perspective (Philippians 3:10; 2 Timothy 2:12). However, many of the things that we go through are simply Father's desire to give us something far better than what we have now (1 Peter 1:6-7; James 1:2-3). One Christmas morning I had given one of my sons, who was about three at the time, one of his gifts. It was a very small toy that he immediately thought was the greatest thing ever. I had something far better for him that I wanted him to have but he was so distracted with his new little toy that he would not come over and unwrap his bigger present. Of course I was very excited about the gift that I had for him so in order to redirect his attention I took the little toy away from him after some struggle. It ended up in a disaster because he thought that I was punishing him when all I wanted him to do was to set his little eyes on the main event of that Christmas morning. We must realize that no matter what we are enduring Father has a bigger blessing awaiting us. We must not allow ourselves to sink into the despair of what we may have lost but keep our eyes set on what we are to gain.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Friday, May 11, 2007
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/10/07
Acts 8:4 - Then those who were scattered went about preaching the word.
If we want to see the same results that the first century church experienced then we need to be committed to the same testimony. Jesus promised to confirm the word with miracles (Mark 16:20). If one is going to preach properly then it is the "Ho Logos" or "The Word" which must be preached. This phrase is found 134 times in the New Testament and is defined by what Jesus preached.
When Jesus ministered He spoke "the word" (Mark 2:2; John 14:24). It was not His word but the word that the Father gave Him to speak (John 17:14; Luke 5:1; 11:28). His words were the living word that cannot pass away and stands as the judge of all mankind forever (John 5:24; 6:56; 12:48; Hebrews 4:12). His word is the source of eternal life and is the authority that produces all of the acts of deliverance (John 5:24; 8:51; 15:3; Matthew 8:8,16; Luke 4:36; 1 Peter 1:23). It was not subjective and applicable only to the crowd then present but a word that lives and abides forever (Matthew 24:35; Mark 13:31;Luke 1:2; 21:33; John 17:17). Jesus first defined the importance of His words when He said that everyone who hears is word and acts on it is like a wise man who builds his house upon a rock (Matthew 7:24).
The same eternal realm of the Spirit that Jesus spoke these words from is the same realm that functioned in the apostles to recall what was spoken (John 14:26; John 16:13; 2 Peter 1:21; 1 Thessalonians 2:13). Those who would relegate this to a human realm of memory and intellect have yet to view the realms of glory from which these words were spoken. The word is the testimony of Jesus Christ which God's people have been empowered by the Holy Spirit to deliver. Make no mistake "The Word" is defined as the message of Jesus Christ. It is this testimony that we are privileged to be instructed in by the books laid down in the New Testament of the Bible. Certainly, if God can work the miracle to incarnate the Word into human flesh then He can work the miracle to supply us with the accurate testimony of the Word of life. The apostles had probably made provision for at least some part of the New Testament "word" to be available in written form by this time. To believe that the apostles were any less vigilant than to make the Word available in written form before the company of saints were scattered would be very naive.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Acts 8:4 - Then those who were scattered went about preaching the word.
If we want to see the same results that the first century church experienced then we need to be committed to the same testimony. Jesus promised to confirm the word with miracles (Mark 16:20). If one is going to preach properly then it is the "Ho Logos" or "The Word" which must be preached. This phrase is found 134 times in the New Testament and is defined by what Jesus preached.
When Jesus ministered He spoke "the word" (Mark 2:2; John 14:24). It was not His word but the word that the Father gave Him to speak (John 17:14; Luke 5:1; 11:28). His words were the living word that cannot pass away and stands as the judge of all mankind forever (John 5:24; 6:56; 12:48; Hebrews 4:12). His word is the source of eternal life and is the authority that produces all of the acts of deliverance (John 5:24; 8:51; 15:3; Matthew 8:8,16; Luke 4:36; 1 Peter 1:23). It was not subjective and applicable only to the crowd then present but a word that lives and abides forever (Matthew 24:35; Mark 13:31;Luke 1:2; 21:33; John 17:17). Jesus first defined the importance of His words when He said that everyone who hears is word and acts on it is like a wise man who builds his house upon a rock (Matthew 7:24).
The same eternal realm of the Spirit that Jesus spoke these words from is the same realm that functioned in the apostles to recall what was spoken (John 14:26; John 16:13; 2 Peter 1:21; 1 Thessalonians 2:13). Those who would relegate this to a human realm of memory and intellect have yet to view the realms of glory from which these words were spoken. The word is the testimony of Jesus Christ which God's people have been empowered by the Holy Spirit to deliver. Make no mistake "The Word" is defined as the message of Jesus Christ. It is this testimony that we are privileged to be instructed in by the books laid down in the New Testament of the Bible. Certainly, if God can work the miracle to incarnate the Word into human flesh then He can work the miracle to supply us with the accurate testimony of the Word of life. The apostles had probably made provision for at least some part of the New Testament "word" to be available in written form by this time. To believe that the apostles were any less vigilant than to make the Word available in written form before the company of saints were scattered would be very naive.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/09/07
2 Peter 1:11 - For in this way you shall be richly supplied the entrance into the everlasting Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
One could simply view this scripture as an assurance to the obedient and diligent of being given a lavish entrance into the Kingdom of God at the time of death. Professor Salmond felt that this text was the reverse of "saved, yet so as by fire" (1 Corinthians 3:15). Yet there is more to this verse; for surely the purpose of our lives now to be the witnesses of the Lord Jesus Christ must take on more of the dimension of the life and glory of Jesus (John 14:12; 17:22).
The divine opportunities that are given to us now in the Kingdom of God cry out to us in the declaration, "Until you be endued with power from on high" (Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8). Keeping in mind the fact that Paul said that the saints have been translated from the kingdom of this world into the kingdom of the Dear Son, we must be willing to embrace that we have already entered into some dimension of the Kingdom of God now (Colossians 1:14).
Jesus told the leaders of Israel that the Kingdom would be taken from them and given to another nation that would bring forth the fruits of the Kingdom (Matthew 21:43). Jesus also commanded us to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness as a way in which we daily live our lives (Matthew 6:33). Paul also gave us a description of the fruits of the Kingdom of God that should be manifested in our daily lives as evidence of our communion with God when he said, "For the Kingdom of God is not meat and drink but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost" (Romans 14:17). The only qualifications of entering into the Kingdom of God is having been born of the Spirit (John 3:5).
Peter is addressing the saints to take hold of a realm of consecration that will result in an increased revelation of God's glory now and no doubt a triumphant entry into the realms of that glory after this life on earth has ended. Although, as The Bible Exposition Commentary points out, "If we make lavish provision to grow spiritually (2 Peter 1:5), then God will make lavish provision for us when we enter heaven," it must also be observed that there is a lavish provision that we are to enter into now so that the 'Kingdom of Dear Son' may be revealed. If we are willing to function in the lavishly supplied riches of the Spirit to walk in the nature of God then there will also be a lavish supply of grace to function in the realms of the miracle glory of the Kingdom (2 Peter 1:5, 11).
The examples of those who stepped over into this realm of glory are many from Enoch to Paul. Surely there is a continual increase in the nature of God as well as the glory and power of God if we are willing to give ourselves wholly to His purposes. Paul opens the door to all saints to know the love of Christ that passes knowledge and to be filled with all of the fullness of God. He also sets forth the call to "the measure of the maturity of the fullness of Christ" (Ephesians 3:18-19; 4:13). We may be certain that God rewards those who diligently seek Him with the same kind of rewards that He gave to Enoch and all of those spoken of in the Bible (Hebrews 11:6). There awaits boundless insight into the glories of the inheritance and exceeding greatness of the power of Christ Jesus for all who are willing and obedient (Ephesians 1:18-19).
Peter is not referring to a works-based reward but to an obedience-based inheritance. The door is opened to explore the endless realms of the Spirit of God, but it is only through yielding to and obeying the Spirit of God that we may enter in and explore these unsearchable riches of Christ and gaze upon those things which 'eyes have not seen nor ears have heard nor has entered into the heart of man' (1 Corinthians 2:9; Ephesians 3:8-9).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
2 Peter 1:11 - For in this way you shall be richly supplied the entrance into the everlasting Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
One could simply view this scripture as an assurance to the obedient and diligent of being given a lavish entrance into the Kingdom of God at the time of death. Professor Salmond felt that this text was the reverse of "saved, yet so as by fire" (1 Corinthians 3:15). Yet there is more to this verse; for surely the purpose of our lives now to be the witnesses of the Lord Jesus Christ must take on more of the dimension of the life and glory of Jesus (John 14:12; 17:22).
The divine opportunities that are given to us now in the Kingdom of God cry out to us in the declaration, "Until you be endued with power from on high" (Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8). Keeping in mind the fact that Paul said that the saints have been translated from the kingdom of this world into the kingdom of the Dear Son, we must be willing to embrace that we have already entered into some dimension of the Kingdom of God now (Colossians 1:14).
Jesus told the leaders of Israel that the Kingdom would be taken from them and given to another nation that would bring forth the fruits of the Kingdom (Matthew 21:43). Jesus also commanded us to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness as a way in which we daily live our lives (Matthew 6:33). Paul also gave us a description of the fruits of the Kingdom of God that should be manifested in our daily lives as evidence of our communion with God when he said, "For the Kingdom of God is not meat and drink but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost" (Romans 14:17). The only qualifications of entering into the Kingdom of God is having been born of the Spirit (John 3:5).
Peter is addressing the saints to take hold of a realm of consecration that will result in an increased revelation of God's glory now and no doubt a triumphant entry into the realms of that glory after this life on earth has ended. Although, as The Bible Exposition Commentary points out, "If we make lavish provision to grow spiritually (2 Peter 1:5), then God will make lavish provision for us when we enter heaven," it must also be observed that there is a lavish provision that we are to enter into now so that the 'Kingdom of Dear Son' may be revealed. If we are willing to function in the lavishly supplied riches of the Spirit to walk in the nature of God then there will also be a lavish supply of grace to function in the realms of the miracle glory of the Kingdom (2 Peter 1:5, 11).
The examples of those who stepped over into this realm of glory are many from Enoch to Paul. Surely there is a continual increase in the nature of God as well as the glory and power of God if we are willing to give ourselves wholly to His purposes. Paul opens the door to all saints to know the love of Christ that passes knowledge and to be filled with all of the fullness of God. He also sets forth the call to "the measure of the maturity of the fullness of Christ" (Ephesians 3:18-19; 4:13). We may be certain that God rewards those who diligently seek Him with the same kind of rewards that He gave to Enoch and all of those spoken of in the Bible (Hebrews 11:6). There awaits boundless insight into the glories of the inheritance and exceeding greatness of the power of Christ Jesus for all who are willing and obedient (Ephesians 1:18-19).
Peter is not referring to a works-based reward but to an obedience-based inheritance. The door is opened to explore the endless realms of the Spirit of God, but it is only through yielding to and obeying the Spirit of God that we may enter in and explore these unsearchable riches of Christ and gaze upon those things which 'eyes have not seen nor ears have heard nor has entered into the heart of man' (1 Corinthians 2:9; Ephesians 3:8-9).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 05/08/07
Colossians 3:14 - And above all of these love, which is the bond of perfection.
Love is first in the list of the fruits of the Spirit and when it is allowed to rule us, joy and peace are sure to follow (Galatians 5:22). The Greek word that is used here literally means the middle item that joins two or more things together. Love is the bond that fuses our actions with God's (1 John 4:7-21). It is love that causes our hearts to be knit together with one another which then results in an ever-increasing manifestation of the glory and power of God in our loves collectively and individually (Ephesians 4:15-16; Colossians 2:2). Imagine what a blessing God's saints would be if they were clothed with love, allowed the peace of God to rule, and were always giving thanks (John 13:35; Ephesians 5:1-2; Colossians 3:15; 1Thessalonians 5:18). It is also important to recognize that for us to walk in love we need to be clothed with humility. Too often our own selfish interest takes over and all consciousness of responsibility is totally abandoned.
Walk in love
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Colossians 3:14 - And above all of these love, which is the bond of perfection.
Love is first in the list of the fruits of the Spirit and when it is allowed to rule us, joy and peace are sure to follow (Galatians 5:22). The Greek word that is used here literally means the middle item that joins two or more things together. Love is the bond that fuses our actions with God's (1 John 4:7-21). It is love that causes our hearts to be knit together with one another which then results in an ever-increasing manifestation of the glory and power of God in our loves collectively and individually (Ephesians 4:15-16; Colossians 2:2). Imagine what a blessing God's saints would be if they were clothed with love, allowed the peace of God to rule, and were always giving thanks (John 13:35; Ephesians 5:1-2; Colossians 3:15; 1Thessalonians 5:18). It is also important to recognize that for us to walk in love we need to be clothed with humility. Too often our own selfish interest takes over and all consciousness of responsibility is totally abandoned.
Walk in love
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 05/07/07
Colossians 1:15 - Whose image is that of the invisible God, first-born of all creation.
To understand the meaning of "firstborn of all creation" it must be understood in light of other doctrines that are clearly established in scripture. Most importantly is that Jesus is the Eternal God who has no beginning and no end (John 1:1; Isa 9:6; John 17:5; Titus 2:13). As God, the Word Jesus was the Creator who created everything in the Universe, a distinction that Paul is careful to make in the next verse (Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:2; John 1:3; Ephesians 3:9; 1 Corinthians 8:6).
Jesus may be understood as the firstborn in the sense of His priority and superiority over all things. Yet more importantly God, the Word, became the firstborn of the new creation and the only begotten Son of God when he was incarnated and born of a virgin named Mary (Jn 1:18; 3:16,18; Acts 13:33; Heb 1:5; 5:5; 1 John 4:9). He is the firstborn among many brethren because He was begotten of God as a Son so that now we too may be begotten of God and made sons (John 1:12-13; 1 John 3:1, 2, 9; 4:7; 5:1,4,18; Philippians 2:15; Romans 8:14; James 1:18; Galatians 4: 4-6). Because of the redemption that is in Christ Jesus we are also born of God and become sons of God and brethren to the Lord Jesus Christ (Hebrews 2:11; Romans 8:29; John 20:17; Matthew 12:50).
Paul also calls Jesus the "firstborn among many brethren" and the "firstborn from the dead" (Romans 8:20; Col 1:18). Jesus is the "firstborn of all creation" because it was through Him that all creation was redeemed (Colossians 1:20; Acts 4:12; Ephesians 1:10; Romans 11:36; Galatians 3:20; Hebrews 3:3; 1 Thessalonians 2:5). He is the "firstborn form among the dead" because He was the first to be raised from the dead and as a result we too shall be raised up in the likeness of His resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20, 23; Romans 6:5)
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Colossians 1:15 - Whose image is that of the invisible God, first-born of all creation.
To understand the meaning of "firstborn of all creation" it must be understood in light of other doctrines that are clearly established in scripture. Most importantly is that Jesus is the Eternal God who has no beginning and no end (John 1:1; Isa 9:6; John 17:5; Titus 2:13). As God, the Word Jesus was the Creator who created everything in the Universe, a distinction that Paul is careful to make in the next verse (Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:2; John 1:3; Ephesians 3:9; 1 Corinthians 8:6).
Jesus may be understood as the firstborn in the sense of His priority and superiority over all things. Yet more importantly God, the Word, became the firstborn of the new creation and the only begotten Son of God when he was incarnated and born of a virgin named Mary (Jn 1:18; 3:16,18; Acts 13:33; Heb 1:5; 5:5; 1 John 4:9). He is the firstborn among many brethren because He was begotten of God as a Son so that now we too may be begotten of God and made sons (John 1:12-13; 1 John 3:1, 2, 9; 4:7; 5:1,4,18; Philippians 2:15; Romans 8:14; James 1:18; Galatians 4: 4-6). Because of the redemption that is in Christ Jesus we are also born of God and become sons of God and brethren to the Lord Jesus Christ (Hebrews 2:11; Romans 8:29; John 20:17; Matthew 12:50).
Paul also calls Jesus the "firstborn among many brethren" and the "firstborn from the dead" (Romans 8:20; Col 1:18). Jesus is the "firstborn of all creation" because it was through Him that all creation was redeemed (Colossians 1:20; Acts 4:12; Ephesians 1:10; Romans 11:36; Galatians 3:20; Hebrews 3:3; 1 Thessalonians 2:5). He is the "firstborn form among the dead" because He was the first to be raised from the dead and as a result we too shall be raised up in the likeness of His resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20, 23; Romans 6:5)
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 05/05/07
Isaiah 2:5 - O house of Jacob, come, and let us walk in the light of the LORD.
Today all of the nations of the earth have been given this glorious invitation. Although Satan has deceived many about the existence of God the opportunity remains for everyone to come and receive all of the untold benefits that are available in His presence. God who created every dimension of this wonderful thing that we call life and creation has a special place for us in His presence. The way into His presence is through the Lord Jesus Christ who by Himself broke the chains of darkness that held us back.
Through Christ Jesus, God destroyed the twisted nature that dominated every action of man and supplied to us a divine nature so that we could walk in the light as He is in the light (Ephesians 5:81: 2 Timothy 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 5:5 John 1:7). God is calling you today to come and walk before Him in the joy of all His goodness (Psalms 89:15; 16:11). Your heavenly Father wants you to walk today in the knowledge of His love for you. He wants you to be aware of His determination to give you all things freely to enjoy (Romans 8:32; 1 Corinthians 2:12). Do not allow this day to be wasted. Realize that you have access unto God by the Spirit and that this day was giving to you to come to know the ageless one who desires to reveal all of the wonders of eternity to you (Ephesians 2:18; 1:18-20).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Isaiah 2:5 - O house of Jacob, come, and let us walk in the light of the LORD.
Today all of the nations of the earth have been given this glorious invitation. Although Satan has deceived many about the existence of God the opportunity remains for everyone to come and receive all of the untold benefits that are available in His presence. God who created every dimension of this wonderful thing that we call life and creation has a special place for us in His presence. The way into His presence is through the Lord Jesus Christ who by Himself broke the chains of darkness that held us back.
Through Christ Jesus, God destroyed the twisted nature that dominated every action of man and supplied to us a divine nature so that we could walk in the light as He is in the light (Ephesians 5:81: 2 Timothy 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 5:5 John 1:7). God is calling you today to come and walk before Him in the joy of all His goodness (Psalms 89:15; 16:11). Your heavenly Father wants you to walk today in the knowledge of His love for you. He wants you to be aware of His determination to give you all things freely to enjoy (Romans 8:32; 1 Corinthians 2:12). Do not allow this day to be wasted. Realize that you have access unto God by the Spirit and that this day was giving to you to come to know the ageless one who desires to reveal all of the wonders of eternity to you (Ephesians 2:18; 1:18-20).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 05/04/07
1 Peter 2:6 - For this reason it is underscored in the scriptures, Behold I lay in Zion a corner stone chosen precious and those who believe on Him shall not be ashamed.
This quote is from Isaiah 28:16, "Therefore this is what my Lord YHWH says, behold I have laid in Zion a foundation stone: a proven stone, a precious cornerstone, a secure foundation, the believing shall not panic". The fragment of this verse that is quoted serves to point to Jesus Christ as the one who came to fulfill that which Father promised by His prophet Isaiah.
The context in Isaiah 28 is that everyone shall be measured by the cornerstone if they fail to line up with this chosen and proven cornerstone, then they shall be thrown away. The measuring line shall be justice and the leveling rod or plummet line shall be righteousness. The spiritual house is built by living stones that are placed into the building by the Holy Spirit because they meet the standards and qualifications of the cornerstone. We were made these living stones through the miracle of the new birth in Christ Jesus and there is no one that God will reject if they come to Him by Christ Jesus. Now through the grace of God in Christ Jesus we grow and mature in every attribute of His Holy Nature (1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18; Ephesians 2:21; 4:15). Jesus who is the author and finisher of our faith perfects everything that concerns us (Hebrews 12:2; Philippians 1:6; 2:13; 1 Corinthians 1:8).
All we must do is stay yielded to Him and the Holy Spirit will train us in all of the ways of the divine nature (John 16:13; 14:26; Romans 6:19). If we trust Him no matter what the short comings we will discover that we will never be ashamed for He is always there to show His love and mercy. As we walk out a relationship of hungering and thirsting after righteousness we will find ourselves prepared by the Master unto every good work (2 Timothy 2:21; Hebrews 13:21; Matthew 5:6). God's standard is high but His mercy is great!
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 Peter 2:6 - For this reason it is underscored in the scriptures, Behold I lay in Zion a corner stone chosen precious and those who believe on Him shall not be ashamed.
This quote is from Isaiah 28:16, "Therefore this is what my Lord YHWH says, behold I have laid in Zion a foundation stone: a proven stone, a precious cornerstone, a secure foundation, the believing shall not panic". The fragment of this verse that is quoted serves to point to Jesus Christ as the one who came to fulfill that which Father promised by His prophet Isaiah.
The context in Isaiah 28 is that everyone shall be measured by the cornerstone if they fail to line up with this chosen and proven cornerstone, then they shall be thrown away. The measuring line shall be justice and the leveling rod or plummet line shall be righteousness. The spiritual house is built by living stones that are placed into the building by the Holy Spirit because they meet the standards and qualifications of the cornerstone. We were made these living stones through the miracle of the new birth in Christ Jesus and there is no one that God will reject if they come to Him by Christ Jesus. Now through the grace of God in Christ Jesus we grow and mature in every attribute of His Holy Nature (1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18; Ephesians 2:21; 4:15). Jesus who is the author and finisher of our faith perfects everything that concerns us (Hebrews 12:2; Philippians 1:6; 2:13; 1 Corinthians 1:8).
All we must do is stay yielded to Him and the Holy Spirit will train us in all of the ways of the divine nature (John 16:13; 14:26; Romans 6:19). If we trust Him no matter what the short comings we will discover that we will never be ashamed for He is always there to show His love and mercy. As we walk out a relationship of hungering and thirsting after righteousness we will find ourselves prepared by the Master unto every good work (2 Timothy 2:21; Hebrews 13:21; Matthew 5:6). God's standard is high but His mercy is great!
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 05/03/07
Colossians 3:5 - Therefore put to death your members which are upon the earth fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil desires, covetousness which is idolatry.
Members (melos) may be used of either the physical parts or the spiritual parts of man. Our members may be yielded to God and used as weapons of righteousness or to sin as weapons of unrighteousness (Romans 6:13; 1 Corinthians 6:15). In the spiritual dimension mans members refer to his attitudes, affections, emotions, passions and thoughts. We may also think of our unseen members as the spirit, soul, mind, heart, will, conscious and thought. In this passage earthly members are identified as fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affections, evil desires and covetousness. When the power of sin would attempt to influence us we are to yield our members unto God as weapons of righteousness. By the act of yielding our members to God those evil things that would attempt to work in our members through the power of sin are destroyed. All that is in the world the lust of the flesh the lust of the eye and the pride of life will war against us but as we allow the Holy Spirit to wield our members as weapons of righteousness the power of sin cannot exercise dominion over us (Romans 6:7,12; 1 Peter 2:1) .
When the physical member the eye looks and beholds that which the realm of sin would turn into adultery or fornication Jesus said it would be better to pluck it out so that such influence would not lead the whole body into eternal destruction (Matthew 5:29). In this sense Paul is addressing the church into absolute conformity to Gods rule. Therefore, the members must be put to death that would cause an offense. Not that God would require self-mutilation but an absolute conformity to His word. An excellent example of this is given by the Theological Dictionary with regards to the disposition that God's people should have towards the things they speak, "This means that the sinful use of the tongue, being radically condemned to death, can have no more place" (Theological Dictionary of the New Testament. S. 4:565). Paul takes us one step further with our members and reveals to us that our members are joined to one another and unto Christ (1 Corinthians 6:15,17; Ephesians 5:30; John 6:56; 14:20,23; 15:5; 17:11,21,22,23,26; Colossians 1:27; 1 John 3:24; 4:13,15-16; Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 2:10; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19; 2 Corinthians 6:16; 2 Timothy 1:14; Romans 8:9-11).
Keeping in mind that Paul likens our members to slaves and the slave can only do what the master allows (Romans 6:19). As the redeemed of the Lord our Master Christ Jesus rules over us in righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10; 2 Corinthians 5:17-18). God has called us to set all of our affections on things above and not on things of this earth. Sin would like to play its melody (melos) in our members but the people of God are to only yield their members to the influence of the Holy Spirit.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Colossians 3:5 - Therefore put to death your members which are upon the earth fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil desires, covetousness which is idolatry.
Members (melos) may be used of either the physical parts or the spiritual parts of man. Our members may be yielded to God and used as weapons of righteousness or to sin as weapons of unrighteousness (Romans 6:13; 1 Corinthians 6:15). In the spiritual dimension mans members refer to his attitudes, affections, emotions, passions and thoughts. We may also think of our unseen members as the spirit, soul, mind, heart, will, conscious and thought. In this passage earthly members are identified as fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affections, evil desires and covetousness. When the power of sin would attempt to influence us we are to yield our members unto God as weapons of righteousness. By the act of yielding our members to God those evil things that would attempt to work in our members through the power of sin are destroyed. All that is in the world the lust of the flesh the lust of the eye and the pride of life will war against us but as we allow the Holy Spirit to wield our members as weapons of righteousness the power of sin cannot exercise dominion over us (Romans 6:7,12; 1 Peter 2:1) .
When the physical member the eye looks and beholds that which the realm of sin would turn into adultery or fornication Jesus said it would be better to pluck it out so that such influence would not lead the whole body into eternal destruction (Matthew 5:29). In this sense Paul is addressing the church into absolute conformity to Gods rule. Therefore, the members must be put to death that would cause an offense. Not that God would require self-mutilation but an absolute conformity to His word. An excellent example of this is given by the Theological Dictionary with regards to the disposition that God's people should have towards the things they speak, "This means that the sinful use of the tongue, being radically condemned to death, can have no more place" (Theological Dictionary of the New Testament. S. 4:565). Paul takes us one step further with our members and reveals to us that our members are joined to one another and unto Christ (1 Corinthians 6:15,17; Ephesians 5:30; John 6:56; 14:20,23; 15:5; 17:11,21,22,23,26; Colossians 1:27; 1 John 3:24; 4:13,15-16; Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 2:10; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19; 2 Corinthians 6:16; 2 Timothy 1:14; Romans 8:9-11).
Keeping in mind that Paul likens our members to slaves and the slave can only do what the master allows (Romans 6:19). As the redeemed of the Lord our Master Christ Jesus rules over us in righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10; 2 Corinthians 5:17-18). God has called us to set all of our affections on things above and not on things of this earth. Sin would like to play its melody (melos) in our members but the people of God are to only yield their members to the influence of the Holy Spirit.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 05/02/07
1 John 4:7 - Beloved let us love one another because he that loves is from God and everyone that loves is begotten of God and knows God.
The most important expression and evidence of the new birth is love. This kind of love is perfectly defined by the life of Jesus who revealed the love of God. The expression of God's love through man is only possible if a person has been begotten of God. God's love by definition is a holy love, one that is so giving and unselfish and was plainly revealed by God through the giving of His only begotten Son. This holy love fulfills all of the law and purpose of God for man in that it works no wrong-doing (Romans 13:10; 1 Corinthians 13:4-8).
The love of God is not expressed to a selective group of people but to the whole world (John 3:16 1 John 4:10; Titus 3:4; 1 Peter 1:17). The love of God causes the sun to shine upon the evil and the good and send rains for the righteous and the unrighteous (Matthew 5:45; Luke 6:35). It is God's nature to bless those who are offenders and persecutors and those of us have been born of Him are called to do the same (Romans 12:14; Luke 6:28). All of God's children are marked with the expression of God's divine love and holy nature. Unfortunately, there is probably not a more neglected subject among His people. Above all other things the expression of this unfailing love must be manifested among us if the world is to know that we have been born of Him (John 13:35; 1 John 2:5,10; 3:11; 4:21).
Above all other things it is our responsibility to show this love one for another among ourselves first and also to the whole world. If we fail to walk in love one for another then we have failed at the most fundamental and essential attribute of our calling (John 13:34; 15:12,17; Romans 12:10; 13:8; Galatians 5:13; 1 Thessalonians 4:9; 1 Peter1:22; 1 John 3:11,23: 1 John 4:11,12; 2 John 5). The message of love is expressed 320 times by the occurrence of the words which are translated love. However, far more words are used to describe its characteristics as it specifically relates to the nature of God and of His people. It is a subject central to the Bible, the Gospel, the Character of God and the revelation of His people. God who is Holy and who is Love has set us apart from the world separating us unto His Love. We should see ourselves totally separated for the purpose of God's love being revealed through us in every situation.
Walk in love!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 John 4:7 - Beloved let us love one another because he that loves is from God and everyone that loves is begotten of God and knows God.
The most important expression and evidence of the new birth is love. This kind of love is perfectly defined by the life of Jesus who revealed the love of God. The expression of God's love through man is only possible if a person has been begotten of God. God's love by definition is a holy love, one that is so giving and unselfish and was plainly revealed by God through the giving of His only begotten Son. This holy love fulfills all of the law and purpose of God for man in that it works no wrong-doing (Romans 13:10; 1 Corinthians 13:4-8).
The love of God is not expressed to a selective group of people but to the whole world (John 3:16 1 John 4:10; Titus 3:4; 1 Peter 1:17). The love of God causes the sun to shine upon the evil and the good and send rains for the righteous and the unrighteous (Matthew 5:45; Luke 6:35). It is God's nature to bless those who are offenders and persecutors and those of us have been born of Him are called to do the same (Romans 12:14; Luke 6:28). All of God's children are marked with the expression of God's divine love and holy nature. Unfortunately, there is probably not a more neglected subject among His people. Above all other things the expression of this unfailing love must be manifested among us if the world is to know that we have been born of Him (John 13:35; 1 John 2:5,10; 3:11; 4:21).
Above all other things it is our responsibility to show this love one for another among ourselves first and also to the whole world. If we fail to walk in love one for another then we have failed at the most fundamental and essential attribute of our calling (John 13:34; 15:12,17; Romans 12:10; 13:8; Galatians 5:13; 1 Thessalonians 4:9; 1 Peter1:22; 1 John 3:11,23: 1 John 4:11,12; 2 John 5). The message of love is expressed 320 times by the occurrence of the words which are translated love. However, far more words are used to describe its characteristics as it specifically relates to the nature of God and of His people. It is a subject central to the Bible, the Gospel, the Character of God and the revelation of His people. God who is Holy and who is Love has set us apart from the world separating us unto His Love. We should see ourselves totally separated for the purpose of God's love being revealed through us in every situation.
Walk in love!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 05/01/07
1 John 2:17 - And the world passes away and its desires but he who does the will of God abides forever.
The world and its desires are only temporary. The world system is opposed to the will of God and the Kingdom of God. The god of this world has already been judged and one day his rule will come to an end and his influence will cease to exist forever ( John 12:31; Colossians 2:15; Ephesians 2:2; Revelation 20:14) . There is only one thing right now in the world of men that will endure for ever and that is the word of God (1 Peter 1:23-25; Psalms 119:89; Isaiah 40:8; Luke 16:17). The Psalmist said, "the law of the Lord is perfect converting the soul: the testimonies of the Lord is sure making wise the simple. The statues of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandments of the Lord are pure, enlightening the eyes. More to be desired are they than gold yes than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is your servant warned and in keeping of them there is great reward." (Psalms 19:7-10)
Doing the will of the Father has many blessings associated with it. Doing the will of the Father converts the soul, makes the simple man wise, causes the heart to rejoice, brings enlightenment and more benefits than can be numbered (Psalms 103:2; 68:19; Philippians 4:19). In reality doing the will of the Father leads us to the greatest treasures that can be found. The reward of doing His will is not only eternal life but abundant life. God created life and He alone knows how it works. Just as there is a consequence for breaking the natural laws that govern the earth there is a consequence for breaking the spiritual laws that govern the earth. If we want to walk in the abundance of blessings then we will obey the spiritual laws and reap an abundant life that last forever ( Galatians 6:7- 8; Job 4:8; Proverbs 1:31; Psalms 1; 1 Corinthians 6:9; Ephesians 5:6; Romans 8:2; Hosea 10:12; Proverbs 11:18).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 John 2:17 - And the world passes away and its desires but he who does the will of God abides forever.
The world and its desires are only temporary. The world system is opposed to the will of God and the Kingdom of God. The god of this world has already been judged and one day his rule will come to an end and his influence will cease to exist forever ( John 12:31; Colossians 2:15; Ephesians 2:2; Revelation 20:14) . There is only one thing right now in the world of men that will endure for ever and that is the word of God (1 Peter 1:23-25; Psalms 119:89; Isaiah 40:8; Luke 16:17). The Psalmist said, "the law of the Lord is perfect converting the soul: the testimonies of the Lord is sure making wise the simple. The statues of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandments of the Lord are pure, enlightening the eyes. More to be desired are they than gold yes than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is your servant warned and in keeping of them there is great reward." (Psalms 19:7-10)
Doing the will of the Father has many blessings associated with it. Doing the will of the Father converts the soul, makes the simple man wise, causes the heart to rejoice, brings enlightenment and more benefits than can be numbered (Psalms 103:2; 68:19; Philippians 4:19). In reality doing the will of the Father leads us to the greatest treasures that can be found. The reward of doing His will is not only eternal life but abundant life. God created life and He alone knows how it works. Just as there is a consequence for breaking the natural laws that govern the earth there is a consequence for breaking the spiritual laws that govern the earth. If we want to walk in the abundance of blessings then we will obey the spiritual laws and reap an abundant life that last forever ( Galatians 6:7- 8; Job 4:8; Proverbs 1:31; Psalms 1; 1 Corinthians 6:9; Ephesians 5:6; Romans 8:2; Hosea 10:12; Proverbs 11:18).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 04/30/07
1 John 2:6 - He that says he abides in Him ought himself to walk also just as He walks.
The gospel message of "being in Him" is one of the most important in the New Testament. The two phrases "to be in" (Gr- "einai en") and "to abide in" (Gr- "menein en") are for the most part interchangeable as in John 14:10. The importance of being "in Him" is highlighted by scriptures such as "If any man be in Christ Jesus he is a new creature", 2 Corinthians 5:17, also John 15:4,5,7,10; 2 Cor. 5:21; Eph. 1:4; Php 3:9; Col 2:6, 7, 10; 1 John 2:27, 28; 3:5,6,24; 4:16; 5:20.
The ability to behave just like Jesus comes to us by the anointing that we have received from Him. In fact "abiding in Him" and having "the anointing" are inseparably linked. The promise that God gave to anyone who would believe was that we would be born of the Spirit and subsequently Jesus would baptize us with the Holy Spirit (John 3:5; 1 John 2:27; Acts 1:8; Acts 8:15-16). He promised us the same Spirit and the same anointing that He was baptized with (Luke 4:18).
The idea of abiding in Him is communicated in a unique way in John 15 to help us understand how the supply of this divine ability flows into our lives. We learn that we can depend on Jesus for everything that we need and that without Him we can do nothing. As we grow in this relationship we discover an ever increasing supernatural flow of the grace of God into our lives. Even the love and trust that we have for Him grows and increases reaching beyond that which we find in ourselves as it flows into our hearts by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5; Ephesians 3:19; 1 Thessalonians 3:12). As we grow in grace we discover that there is an inseparable union between us and the Lord Jesus even as a vine and a branch, (John 15:1-6;1 John 3:23; 2 Peter 3:18).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 John 2:6 - He that says he abides in Him ought himself to walk also just as He walks.
The gospel message of "being in Him" is one of the most important in the New Testament. The two phrases "to be in" (Gr- "einai en") and "to abide in" (Gr- "menein en") are for the most part interchangeable as in John 14:10. The importance of being "in Him" is highlighted by scriptures such as "If any man be in Christ Jesus he is a new creature", 2 Corinthians 5:17, also John 15:4,5,7,10; 2 Cor. 5:21; Eph. 1:4; Php 3:9; Col 2:6, 7, 10; 1 John 2:27, 28; 3:5,6,24; 4:16; 5:20.
The ability to behave just like Jesus comes to us by the anointing that we have received from Him. In fact "abiding in Him" and having "the anointing" are inseparably linked. The promise that God gave to anyone who would believe was that we would be born of the Spirit and subsequently Jesus would baptize us with the Holy Spirit (John 3:5; 1 John 2:27; Acts 1:8; Acts 8:15-16). He promised us the same Spirit and the same anointing that He was baptized with (Luke 4:18).
The idea of abiding in Him is communicated in a unique way in John 15 to help us understand how the supply of this divine ability flows into our lives. We learn that we can depend on Jesus for everything that we need and that without Him we can do nothing. As we grow in this relationship we discover an ever increasing supernatural flow of the grace of God into our lives. Even the love and trust that we have for Him grows and increases reaching beyond that which we find in ourselves as it flows into our hearts by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5; Ephesians 3:19; 1 Thessalonians 3:12). As we grow in grace we discover that there is an inseparable union between us and the Lord Jesus even as a vine and a branch, (John 15:1-6;1 John 3:23; 2 Peter 3:18).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 04/28/07
1 John 4:13 - By this we know that we abide in Him and He abides in us because of the Spirit that He has given us.
Jesus dwells in us by the Spirit that He has given unto us (1 John 3:23; John 14:23). As a result then we are privileged to dwell in Him and as we dwell in Him we dwell in His love. This relationship of love is key to all of the power and blessings of God being manifested in and through our lives (Galatians 5:16;1 John 4:16; Ephesians 3:17-18). It is through our love one for another that our union with God is revealed. It is by this divine love that all men will know that we are His disciples (John 13:35). It is this divine love of the Father that is the evidences or fruits that the Spirit of God dwells in us.
The love of God is in us because the Holy Spirit has poured His love into our hearts (Romans 5:5). This kind of love does not have a human origin and we must both depend upon and yield to the Holy Spirit for it to be revealed through us. The kind of love that we have been given to bless one another with is the same love that Jesus has for us (John 13:34).
Walk in love!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 John 4:13 - By this we know that we abide in Him and He abides in us because of the Spirit that He has given us.
Jesus dwells in us by the Spirit that He has given unto us (1 John 3:23; John 14:23). As a result then we are privileged to dwell in Him and as we dwell in Him we dwell in His love. This relationship of love is key to all of the power and blessings of God being manifested in and through our lives (Galatians 5:16;1 John 4:16; Ephesians 3:17-18). It is through our love one for another that our union with God is revealed. It is by this divine love that all men will know that we are His disciples (John 13:35). It is this divine love of the Father that is the evidences or fruits that the Spirit of God dwells in us.
The love of God is in us because the Holy Spirit has poured His love into our hearts (Romans 5:5). This kind of love does not have a human origin and we must both depend upon and yield to the Holy Spirit for it to be revealed through us. The kind of love that we have been given to bless one another with is the same love that Jesus has for us (John 13:34).
Walk in love!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
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