Daily Bread - 06/22/07
Romans 4:3 - For what does the scripture say? " Abraham believed God and it was counted to him for righteousness."
The word translated counted (logizomai), is found many times in the New Testament (40 times) and may be translated a dozen or more ways. As we consider this one shade of meaning "counted/considered" we are dealing with how "real" righteousness was in Abraham's life. Ultimately, our question focuses on how "real" righteousness is for us today. Is the righteousness so often mentioned in the Bible a non- reality, a concept of conduct that does not exist in the nature and behavior of man? Has the New Testament saint been made the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus? (2 Corinthians 5:21) Or, are the New Testament saints just as wicked as ever but called righteous by God even though they are not?
When we consider the context in which the idea of "imputed righteousness" is developed we must first consider the man Abraham. We must be certain that our conclusions fit the description given of him in the Old Testament. We must also recognize that Paul is using Abraham as a model of conversion and understand the similarity of Abraham's conversion to that of the whole world. Paul is making an argument about righteousness by faith instead of an earned righteousness, through the works of the Law. When God called Abraham he was not circumcised nor reading the Torah, or doing Mitzvahs and a host of other religious observances to obtain eternal life through acts of self-righteousness, (all of these practices were common to the Jews of that day). Rather, Abraham was everything that any Gentile is when God called him. Paul argues therefore, that because Abraham was willing to respond to the word of God and believe what God said it was counted for righteousness. Abraham believed that God would bring forth his redemption and therefore placed all of His confidence in Him. "The meaning, therefore, cannot possibly be that the mere act of believing which is as much a work as any other piece of commanded duty (Jn 6:29; 1Jn 3:23) was counted to Abraham for all obedience. The meaning plainly is that Abraham believed in the promises which embraced Christ (Ge 12:3; 15:5, &c.), as we believe in Christ Himself; and in both cases, faith is merely the instrument that puts us in possession of the blessing gratuitously bestowed" (Jamieson, R., Fausset, A. R., Fausset, A. R., Brown, D., & Brown, D. (1997). A commentary, critical and explanatory, on the Old and New Testaments. On spine: Critical and explanatory commentary. (Ro 4:3).).
To say that there were no acts of obedience involved in Abraham's relationship with God would be the furthest thing from the truth. Abraham demonstrated absolute obedience and consecration to God's word. Abraham left his family and home and followed God to a strange land with the most extreme risk to his life and to those that were with him (Genesis 12-15:6). It is revealed in Hebrews that Abraham did not even know where he was going he was simply obeying God with absolute consecration (Hebrews 11:8-10). We must be willing to understand that Paul is making a point that Abraham like the Gentiles had not been circumcised nor had he done any other cultic rituals relating to the Law when God considered him righteous, (rituals that the Jews held to be essential to gain a righteous status with God). Abraham's righteousness was found in his willingness to believe God in the face of all the impossibilities and fully surrender to God's salvation (Genesis 15:6).
When we consider the Hebrew word that is used in Genesis 15:6 it only serves to underscore a meaning that is much broader than many theologians would limited it to, "And he believed in Yahweh and he was thought of or esteemed as (chashav) righteous." The very fact that there is a number of ways to correctly translate this word should give us pause as to how rigid we attempt to define its meaning. To derive from this word a concept that righteousness is only "imputed" and never becomes a living reality in an individual would be a mistake. One thing is for certain: we could never conclude that Abraham did not walk in consecration and obedience to God! He so walked in obedience to God that He was called the friend of God and was God's confidant (Genesis 18; 22; Isaiah 41:8). To place Abraham in a category of wicked transgressors who have no regard for God's word and ways is ridiculous. To make the righteousness that he had by faith something akin to a modern day Christians who have little regard for holy living is even more ridiculous. One of the most important issues that Paul was addressing is that righteousness only comes by Jesus Christ. Was Abraham in need of a savior? Yes, and Paul makes it very clear that the promise that Abraham believed was that of the coming seed (Galatians 3:16). The seed that he was promised was Christ Jesus who would grant to all men the gift of righteousness through the redemption that is in His name (Galatians 3:21). For us to consider our righteousness by faith in light of Abraham's righteousness by faith then we must be willing to match up faith to faith, faithfulness to faithfulness and obedience to obedience. As Paul uses Abraham as the example of conversion we must see a faith that absolutely believes, trusts, obeys and relies on the promise of God. Abraham's faith demonstrates to us a person who was willing to fully identify himself with God and His ways.
When we consider the reality of the righteousness that we have been given we must understand it in terms of the righteousness of Jesus. Jesus is our righteousness and His righteousness was given to us as a gift, in an instant of time, at the moment that we were willing to believe God and call upon the name of the Lord (Acts 16:31; Romans 10:9-10). The righteousness of God was imparted to us as much as the new life in Christ was imparted. If Jesus has come into our heart and if the Spirit of God has come into our lives, if we have been made a new creation then righteousness has been imparted. Why, because the Spirit of God is the source of that righteousness. Where you find Jesus you will find His righteousness. True righteousness is not the cultic activities of the Law but the righteousness that was expressed by Jesus. Therefore, when John identified the right kind of righteousness in his First Epistle he said, He that does righteousness is righteous even as He is righteous (1 John 3:7).
Just as Abraham was called by God, not based on any works of righteousness, so are we. God granted righteousness to Abraham because He was willing to believe in the promised seed, Christ Jesus. The gift of righteousness has also been given to us because we have believed. We possess this gift not because of any works of righteousness that we have done but because of His great love with which He has loved us. We did not have to earn it rather He gave it to us by making us a new creation. The righteousness that we have been given transcends the righteousness that Abraham had; they are only similar up to the point of conversion. Whereas Abraham's righteousness is viewed in light of His faithfulness to the covenant ours takes on a deeper dimension because we have received the promise of the new creation. It cannot be said that Abraham was made the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus neither that he was created in righteousness and true holiness as we are. Through Abraham's obedience and consecration he lived as one of the great representatives of God. Through his faith in the coming redeemer he became the Father of faith (John 8:56; Romans 4:16).
Today, the world is in desperate need of seeing Jesus. God's New Covenant that He gave to us in Christ Jesus was established so that Jesus would be manifested in our lives. As we walk in the Spirit, in obedience to God, we learn to function in all of the ways of this free gift of righteousness. The love and nature of Jesus Christ, who lives within us, is revealed as we yield to the Holy Spirit.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Friday, June 22, 2007
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Daily Bread - 06/21/07
Galatians 2:16 - Knowing that a man is not made righteous out of works of the Law but through Christ Jesus' faith and we have believed on Christ Jesus that we might be made righteous from Christ's faith and not from works of the Law because from works of the Law shall no flesh be shown righteous.
There are two kinds of works: the works of the law and the works of faith (James 2:17-22; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; Revelation 2:19). The most important distinction between these two is that seeking to be made righteous by the works of the law depends on human ability whereas the works of faith is by the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:1-9). What Paul highlights in this verse is the difference between seeking to be righteous through the works of the law instead of seeking righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. The righteousness that comes by Jesus Christ is given to all as a free gift and depends on what God does for us. The righteousness that comes by the law is earned and depends on the ability of man to produce it.
The most important point that the Apostle Paul makes is that no man can be made righteous through the works of the Law. The Law is weak because it depends on the flesh or human ability (Romans 8:3; 9:31). The Law is also powerless because it cannot impart life (Galatians 3:21). The Law is the ministry of condemnation (2 Corinthians 3:9; Galatians 3:10; Psalms 143:2). By the Law there is a continual declaration to man the he is a sinner (Romans 3:20; 1 Corinthians 15:56; Hebrews 7:19; 10:1). The Law brings wrath through its strict code of condemnation (Romans 4:15). The Law produces self-righteousness (Philippians 3:9). All who have come to Jesus are dead to the Law by being put to death with Christ (Romans 7:4; Ephesians 2:15; Galatians 2:19-20).
It is through the Holy Spirit that the works of faith are done. God's desire for us to live pure and godly lives is now fulfilled in us by the work of the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:4; Galatians 3:2,5; 5:18). Works in this context simply refer to the deeds or conduct of our life. If our conduct was not important to God then much of the New Testament, which is devoted to the way we conduct our life, is meaningless. However, all honest and reasonable people must recognize that God - who is no respecter of persons - will judge every man according to his deeds (1 Peter 1:17; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Romans 6:23). We no longer depend upon our own human strength and ability but upon the Spirit of God. We are those who have come to realize that we can do nothing of ourselves. We live the life that pleases God through the power of the Holy Spirit and the greater one who lives on the inside of us (1John 4:4; Philippians 3:3; Romans 8:1; Colossians 1:27; 1 John 3:24).
God grants the gift of righteousness to us instantly by removing the curse of sin and the law (Romans 5:17; Genesis 2:17; 3:15-19; Galatians 3:10; Romans 8:2, 33). God provides us with a new heart, a new spirit as well as the Holy Spirit to live His life of righteousness (Romans 6:18; Ephesians 4:24; Romans 8:4). The idea that the righteousness of faith is not a real righteousness runs contrary to the whole of God's revelation to man. God redeemed us so that we could be restored to relationship with Him. It is impossible to have a right relationship with God unless we walk in righteousness. Both Paul, Peter and John made it very clear that we cannot walk in darkness (unrighteousness) and say that we have fellowship with God (2 Corinthians 6:14; 1 Thessalonians 5:5; 1 John 1:5- 6; 1 Peter 2:9 ).
Laying all legal terminology and extra-biblical arguments aside everyone must simply admit that the verb 'dikaioo' means 'make dikaios' (make righteous). If faith in Jesus Christ is a supernatural work of God's grace that produces the new birth of the Spirit whereby we become possessors of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4) and made the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21) then we have indeed been empowered with the life of Christ to live righteously (Luke 1:75; Ephesians 2:24; Romans 6:18; Titus 2:12; Romans 8:4 and many more).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Galatians 2:16 - Knowing that a man is not made righteous out of works of the Law but through Christ Jesus' faith and we have believed on Christ Jesus that we might be made righteous from Christ's faith and not from works of the Law because from works of the Law shall no flesh be shown righteous.
There are two kinds of works: the works of the law and the works of faith (James 2:17-22; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; Revelation 2:19). The most important distinction between these two is that seeking to be made righteous by the works of the law depends on human ability whereas the works of faith is by the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:1-9). What Paul highlights in this verse is the difference between seeking to be righteous through the works of the law instead of seeking righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. The righteousness that comes by Jesus Christ is given to all as a free gift and depends on what God does for us. The righteousness that comes by the law is earned and depends on the ability of man to produce it.
The most important point that the Apostle Paul makes is that no man can be made righteous through the works of the Law. The Law is weak because it depends on the flesh or human ability (Romans 8:3; 9:31). The Law is also powerless because it cannot impart life (Galatians 3:21). The Law is the ministry of condemnation (2 Corinthians 3:9; Galatians 3:10; Psalms 143:2). By the Law there is a continual declaration to man the he is a sinner (Romans 3:20; 1 Corinthians 15:56; Hebrews 7:19; 10:1). The Law brings wrath through its strict code of condemnation (Romans 4:15). The Law produces self-righteousness (Philippians 3:9). All who have come to Jesus are dead to the Law by being put to death with Christ (Romans 7:4; Ephesians 2:15; Galatians 2:19-20).
It is through the Holy Spirit that the works of faith are done. God's desire for us to live pure and godly lives is now fulfilled in us by the work of the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:4; Galatians 3:2,5; 5:18). Works in this context simply refer to the deeds or conduct of our life. If our conduct was not important to God then much of the New Testament, which is devoted to the way we conduct our life, is meaningless. However, all honest and reasonable people must recognize that God - who is no respecter of persons - will judge every man according to his deeds (1 Peter 1:17; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Romans 6:23). We no longer depend upon our own human strength and ability but upon the Spirit of God. We are those who have come to realize that we can do nothing of ourselves. We live the life that pleases God through the power of the Holy Spirit and the greater one who lives on the inside of us (1John 4:4; Philippians 3:3; Romans 8:1; Colossians 1:27; 1 John 3:24).
God grants the gift of righteousness to us instantly by removing the curse of sin and the law (Romans 5:17; Genesis 2:17; 3:15-19; Galatians 3:10; Romans 8:2, 33). God provides us with a new heart, a new spirit as well as the Holy Spirit to live His life of righteousness (Romans 6:18; Ephesians 4:24; Romans 8:4). The idea that the righteousness of faith is not a real righteousness runs contrary to the whole of God's revelation to man. God redeemed us so that we could be restored to relationship with Him. It is impossible to have a right relationship with God unless we walk in righteousness. Both Paul, Peter and John made it very clear that we cannot walk in darkness (unrighteousness) and say that we have fellowship with God (2 Corinthians 6:14; 1 Thessalonians 5:5; 1 John 1:5- 6; 1 Peter 2:9 ).
Laying all legal terminology and extra-biblical arguments aside everyone must simply admit that the verb 'dikaioo' means 'make dikaios' (make righteous). If faith in Jesus Christ is a supernatural work of God's grace that produces the new birth of the Spirit whereby we become possessors of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4) and made the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21) then we have indeed been empowered with the life of Christ to live righteously (Luke 1:75; Ephesians 2:24; Romans 6:18; Titus 2:12; Romans 8:4 and many more).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Daily Bread - 06/20/07
Romans 5:1 - Therefore having been made righteous by faith we have peace with God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
One of the many important concepts that must be grasped with the word 'justified' is given in Proverbs 17:15, "He who justifies (tzadek) the wicked and he who condemns the righteous are both alike: an abomination to the Lord." When God justified the wicked in the New Testament, He did so by removing all of their wickedness (Colossians 2:11; Romans 6:6). The power of the blood of Jesus removed the effects and penalty of sin that had been committed (2 Peter 1:9; Hebrews 8:12; 10:17; Romans 6:22; Revelation 1:5). God also removed the power and dominion of sin that would continue to drive a person to sin against their will (Romans 6:14; 1 John 3:5,8 1 Peter 2:24; Hebrews 2:14; 2 Timothy 1:10; Galatians 1:4).
In the New Testament we may group the concept of being justified into two categories: being self-justified and being justified by God. In the first category, there are examples like a lawyer in Luke 10:29 and the Pharisees in Luke 16:14. The only way to move from being self-justified to being justified by God is to acknowledge being wrong and, thus, leave off self-justification. The act of repentance and faith in Christ Jesus then produces the miracle of salvation which makes one righteous (justified. The ability then to live righteously in Christ Jesus through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit results in one being shown to be righteous (justified) (Romans 6:18,22; 2 Corinthians 5:17-18; Galatians 2:20; Philippians 1:21; 3:20).
The word justified is also used by Jesus of a person being free from all charges of wrong doing such as those whose words are spoken in truth and purity (Matthew 12:37). Another example is the sinner who, unlike the Pharisee, refused to justify himself (Luke 18:14). To be justified one must be forgiven by God. God's forgiveness, provided for us through the blood of Jesus, erases the sin and, as a result, there is a verdict of innocent. However, if a person then sins after being forgiven by God then they are guilty and must seek to be forgiven again (1 John 1:9; 2:1; James 1:14-16; Romans 6:23). God does not justify a sinful life style He justifies the repenting sinner seeking forgiveness.
The concept of being justified includes not only being forgiven of sin but being dead to sin (Romans 6:6-7). When God justifies the wicked man who repents He puts the sin to death by putting the sinner to death in Christ Jesus (Galatians 2:20; Colossians 3:3; Romans 6:4). Thus reconciliation or the exchange of life takes place (2 Corinthians 5:18-19; Romans 5:10). The sinner exchanges his life of unrighteousness for the life of Christ and His righteousness. The miracle of salvation allows us to be crucified with Christ and buried with Him by baptism into His death so that we can also be raised up together with Him (Colossians 3:1-4; 2:12; Romans 6:4). The newness of life that we receive is the life of Christ insomuch that we can say that we no longer live but Christ lives.
Through sharing this life of union with Christ Jesus we are shown to be righteous (justified) (John 14:20; 17:21-22; 6:56; Colossians 1:27; Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 2:10). The life of Christ becomes our life because Christ Jesus is born into our hearts by the Holy Spirit (Colossians 1:27). This life of God imparted to us brings forth a brand new inner person (soul, spirit, heart, mind and conscience) that is ruled and governed by the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 4:24; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; Ezekiel 36:26; Ephesians 6:6; 1 Peter 1:9; John 3:6; Acts 15:9; Hebrews 8:10; 1 Peter 4:2; Hebrews 9:14; 10:22; Philippians 4:7).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Romans 5:1 - Therefore having been made righteous by faith we have peace with God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
One of the many important concepts that must be grasped with the word 'justified' is given in Proverbs 17:15, "He who justifies (tzadek) the wicked and he who condemns the righteous are both alike: an abomination to the Lord." When God justified the wicked in the New Testament, He did so by removing all of their wickedness (Colossians 2:11; Romans 6:6). The power of the blood of Jesus removed the effects and penalty of sin that had been committed (2 Peter 1:9; Hebrews 8:12; 10:17; Romans 6:22; Revelation 1:5). God also removed the power and dominion of sin that would continue to drive a person to sin against their will (Romans 6:14; 1 John 3:5,8 1 Peter 2:24; Hebrews 2:14; 2 Timothy 1:10; Galatians 1:4).
In the New Testament we may group the concept of being justified into two categories: being self-justified and being justified by God. In the first category, there are examples like a lawyer in Luke 10:29 and the Pharisees in Luke 16:14. The only way to move from being self-justified to being justified by God is to acknowledge being wrong and, thus, leave off self-justification. The act of repentance and faith in Christ Jesus then produces the miracle of salvation which makes one righteous (justified. The ability then to live righteously in Christ Jesus through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit results in one being shown to be righteous (justified) (Romans 6:18,22; 2 Corinthians 5:17-18; Galatians 2:20; Philippians 1:21; 3:20).
The word justified is also used by Jesus of a person being free from all charges of wrong doing such as those whose words are spoken in truth and purity (Matthew 12:37). Another example is the sinner who, unlike the Pharisee, refused to justify himself (Luke 18:14). To be justified one must be forgiven by God. God's forgiveness, provided for us through the blood of Jesus, erases the sin and, as a result, there is a verdict of innocent. However, if a person then sins after being forgiven by God then they are guilty and must seek to be forgiven again (1 John 1:9; 2:1; James 1:14-16; Romans 6:23). God does not justify a sinful life style He justifies the repenting sinner seeking forgiveness.
The concept of being justified includes not only being forgiven of sin but being dead to sin (Romans 6:6-7). When God justifies the wicked man who repents He puts the sin to death by putting the sinner to death in Christ Jesus (Galatians 2:20; Colossians 3:3; Romans 6:4). Thus reconciliation or the exchange of life takes place (2 Corinthians 5:18-19; Romans 5:10). The sinner exchanges his life of unrighteousness for the life of Christ and His righteousness. The miracle of salvation allows us to be crucified with Christ and buried with Him by baptism into His death so that we can also be raised up together with Him (Colossians 3:1-4; 2:12; Romans 6:4). The newness of life that we receive is the life of Christ insomuch that we can say that we no longer live but Christ lives.
Through sharing this life of union with Christ Jesus we are shown to be righteous (justified) (John 14:20; 17:21-22; 6:56; Colossians 1:27; Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 2:10). The life of Christ becomes our life because Christ Jesus is born into our hearts by the Holy Spirit (Colossians 1:27). This life of God imparted to us brings forth a brand new inner person (soul, spirit, heart, mind and conscience) that is ruled and governed by the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 4:24; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; Ezekiel 36:26; Ephesians 6:6; 1 Peter 1:9; John 3:6; Acts 15:9; Hebrews 8:10; 1 Peter 4:2; Hebrews 9:14; 10:22; Philippians 4:7).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Daily Bread - 06/19/07
1 John 3:7 - Little children let no one deceive you, he who does righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous.
We are made righteous (justified) by faith in Jesus Christ alone (Romans 5:1, 9; Galatians 2:16). However, it is essential to remember that part of being made righteous is that we have received the righteousness of God so that we may live righteously (Romans 10:3-10; 2 Corinthians 5:21). In that we have the righteousness of God we are righteous even as He is righteous.
The power of deception is an ever-increasing influence among men that will ultimately result in the great apostasy (Matthew 24:24; 2 Timothy 3:13; Revelation 12:9) . One of the things that Satan attempts to do is to deceive God's people into thinking that they can continue in sin and still have fellowship with God (1 John 1:6). Paul underscores the fact that those who have sin in their life are unrighteous and will not inherit the Kingdom of God, "Do you not know that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor abusers of themselves with mankind," (1 Corinthians 6:9; Ephesians 5:6).
All sin comes out of the satanic influence and, as John describes here, from a satanic nature (1 John 3:8; John 8:44; Ephesians 2:2-3). All righteousness comes out of the holy realm from a righteous nature (1 John 2:29; 1:9; Romans 6:18). To participate in sin is to participate in the works of the devil. Sin is opposed to the work of Jesus who was manifested to destroy the works of the devil (1 John 3:5). Everyone who is born of God has been called to overcome the wicked one (1 John 2:13-14). Satan was and is a rebel against God (Isaiah 14:9-17; Ezekiel 28:12-14). All who follow his rebellion (sin) are opposing God. Jesus Christ who came to redeem men and set us free from the power of Satan is greater in power and influence if we will only follow Him. His mercy is so great that if we do sin He is there to intercede on our behalf (1 John 2:1). If we will confess our sins He is faithful and just to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 John 3:7 - Little children let no one deceive you, he who does righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous.
We are made righteous (justified) by faith in Jesus Christ alone (Romans 5:1, 9; Galatians 2:16). However, it is essential to remember that part of being made righteous is that we have received the righteousness of God so that we may live righteously (Romans 10:3-10; 2 Corinthians 5:21). In that we have the righteousness of God we are righteous even as He is righteous.
The power of deception is an ever-increasing influence among men that will ultimately result in the great apostasy (Matthew 24:24; 2 Timothy 3:13; Revelation 12:9) . One of the things that Satan attempts to do is to deceive God's people into thinking that they can continue in sin and still have fellowship with God (1 John 1:6). Paul underscores the fact that those who have sin in their life are unrighteous and will not inherit the Kingdom of God, "Do you not know that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor abusers of themselves with mankind," (1 Corinthians 6:9; Ephesians 5:6).
All sin comes out of the satanic influence and, as John describes here, from a satanic nature (1 John 3:8; John 8:44; Ephesians 2:2-3). All righteousness comes out of the holy realm from a righteous nature (1 John 2:29; 1:9; Romans 6:18). To participate in sin is to participate in the works of the devil. Sin is opposed to the work of Jesus who was manifested to destroy the works of the devil (1 John 3:5). Everyone who is born of God has been called to overcome the wicked one (1 John 2:13-14). Satan was and is a rebel against God (Isaiah 14:9-17; Ezekiel 28:12-14). All who follow his rebellion (sin) are opposing God. Jesus Christ who came to redeem men and set us free from the power of Satan is greater in power and influence if we will only follow Him. His mercy is so great that if we do sin He is there to intercede on our behalf (1 John 2:1). If we will confess our sins He is faithful and just to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Monday, June 18, 2007
Daily Bread - 06/18/07
1 Peter 3:12 - Because the Lord's eyes are upon the righteous and His ears unto their petitions but the Lord's face opposes those who do evil.
Peter quoted this exhortation from Psalms 34:14, underscoring the relevance of this Old Testament scripture in the New Testament. Peter leads into this by talking about one of the chief attributes of righteousness: love. The love of God compels us to bless no matter what the disposition of others may be toward us. As those who possess the righteousness of God we are to bless so that we might inherit a blessing (3:9). We are commanded to bless and to curse not (Romans 12:14; 1 Corinthians 12:20-21; Matthew 5:44). Our tongues are to speak no evil against another person (3:10; 2:1, 22). Just as the whole Law is summed up in love, the righteousness of God is also summed up in love; for God is love (Romans 13:8,10; Galatians 5:14; 1 John 4:7-8;1 John 3:10-11).
God's eyes are upon the righteous and His ears are open to hear their prayers. God not only hears us when we pray, He also will do whatever we ask because we obey Him and keep His commandments and we do those things that are pleasing in His sight (1 John 3:22; 5:14; John 14:13-14). Whenever we turn away from the evil we discover that God is looking at us with a heart of gratitude and thanksgiving that we were willing to choose His way of life. He loves us and wants us to have the good life that is full of blessings (1 Peter 3:10; John 10:10; Romans 6:23). He gave us His gift of abundant and eternal life so that we can enjoy the blessedness of His way of life, righteousness.
We are inundated on every side with things that are both wicked and opposed to God (1 John 5:19; Revelation 12:9; Ephesians 2:2). Our society is gripped with the most vile offenses against God. The Christian community has become a community of unending compromises (James 4:4; Galatians 2:17-18). If we are not careful, we will be carried away with these influences (2 Timothy 2:19; 1 John 3:7; Ephesians 5:6). We must allow God to define for us how we are to behave and be committed to that way of life. If we are willing to walk with God, we will not have to rely upon our own failing and wavering human strength; for we will find the strength of the Lord and the power of His might (Ephesians 5:11; 6:10; 1 Corinthians 5:11; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18; 2 Thessalonians 3:14; 5:22).
There are only two choices: we are either righteous and doing that which is good and pleasing to the Lord or we are doing evil. If we are doing evil then the Lord has set his face against us. If a person boasts of being an evildoer and still attempts to profess a relationship with God, such one is deceived (1 John 1:6; 2:9; 3:10, 14-15). The Bible makes a very clear distinction between good and evil, righteousness and sin, light and darkness, holy and common. We would be wise to receive the counsel and instruction of the Lord and have a good understanding of this distinction ourselves.
If we have been born of God then He has filled our hearts with that which is good (Matthew 12:35; 2 Corinthians 1:22; 3:3; 4:6; Galatians 4:6; Hebrews 8:10; 10:16; Ezekiel 36:26). He has poured His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5; Galatians 5:22; 1 John 4:7). All we need to do is hunger and thirst for the things of righteousness and we will be filled to overflowing with every expression of God's love.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 Peter 3:12 - Because the Lord's eyes are upon the righteous and His ears unto their petitions but the Lord's face opposes those who do evil.
Peter quoted this exhortation from Psalms 34:14, underscoring the relevance of this Old Testament scripture in the New Testament. Peter leads into this by talking about one of the chief attributes of righteousness: love. The love of God compels us to bless no matter what the disposition of others may be toward us. As those who possess the righteousness of God we are to bless so that we might inherit a blessing (3:9). We are commanded to bless and to curse not (Romans 12:14; 1 Corinthians 12:20-21; Matthew 5:44). Our tongues are to speak no evil against another person (3:10; 2:1, 22). Just as the whole Law is summed up in love, the righteousness of God is also summed up in love; for God is love (Romans 13:8,10; Galatians 5:14; 1 John 4:7-8;1 John 3:10-11).
God's eyes are upon the righteous and His ears are open to hear their prayers. God not only hears us when we pray, He also will do whatever we ask because we obey Him and keep His commandments and we do those things that are pleasing in His sight (1 John 3:22; 5:14; John 14:13-14). Whenever we turn away from the evil we discover that God is looking at us with a heart of gratitude and thanksgiving that we were willing to choose His way of life. He loves us and wants us to have the good life that is full of blessings (1 Peter 3:10; John 10:10; Romans 6:23). He gave us His gift of abundant and eternal life so that we can enjoy the blessedness of His way of life, righteousness.
We are inundated on every side with things that are both wicked and opposed to God (1 John 5:19; Revelation 12:9; Ephesians 2:2). Our society is gripped with the most vile offenses against God. The Christian community has become a community of unending compromises (James 4:4; Galatians 2:17-18). If we are not careful, we will be carried away with these influences (2 Timothy 2:19; 1 John 3:7; Ephesians 5:6). We must allow God to define for us how we are to behave and be committed to that way of life. If we are willing to walk with God, we will not have to rely upon our own failing and wavering human strength; for we will find the strength of the Lord and the power of His might (Ephesians 5:11; 6:10; 1 Corinthians 5:11; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18; 2 Thessalonians 3:14; 5:22).
There are only two choices: we are either righteous and doing that which is good and pleasing to the Lord or we are doing evil. If we are doing evil then the Lord has set his face against us. If a person boasts of being an evildoer and still attempts to profess a relationship with God, such one is deceived (1 John 1:6; 2:9; 3:10, 14-15). The Bible makes a very clear distinction between good and evil, righteousness and sin, light and darkness, holy and common. We would be wise to receive the counsel and instruction of the Lord and have a good understanding of this distinction ourselves.
If we have been born of God then He has filled our hearts with that which is good (Matthew 12:35; 2 Corinthians 1:22; 3:3; 4:6; Galatians 4:6; Hebrews 8:10; 10:16; Ezekiel 36:26). He has poured His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5; Galatians 5:22; 1 John 4:7). All we need to do is hunger and thirst for the things of righteousness and we will be filled to overflowing with every expression of God's love.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 06/16/07
John 16:10 - About righteousness because I now go to my Father and you no longer see me.
The ministry of the Holy Spirit is condensed into three main topics in this passage of scripture. The one topic that we will concern ourselves with here, in brief, is His work of convincing the world of righteousness. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of righteousness who is influencing every dimension of the saints emotions, passions, attitudes, thoughts and behaviors (John 14:17; 16:13-15; 7:38-39; Romans 8:4,9-10,14,29; Titus 3:5).
First and foremost the the Holy Spirit is the one who convinces the world that Jesus is the righteous servant of God that makes many righteous (Isaiah 53:11; John 8:28; 14:20; 1 Timothy 3:16). John made it clear that anyone who knows that Jesus is righteous will also know that everyone who does righteousness has been born of Him (1 John 2:29). John further unites the righteousness of Jesus and the believer by saying " let no one deceive you everyone who does righteousness is righteous even as He is righteous" (John 3:7; John 14:20; 17:22). Through the revelation of the righteousness of Jesus the Holy Spirit reveals to the world a whole new standard of righteousness, one that reaches far beyond the Law. Secondly, He convinces us that God has made us righteous for, "Who shall lay any charge to God's elect for it is God who makes righteous" (Romans 8:33; 5:1). The Holy Spirit is the one who has brought grace into our hearts so that we can believe unto righteousness (Romans 10:10; Titus 2:11-12).The work of the Holy Spirit centers around these three things: to glorify Jesus, to make Him known and to bring new life and power to the believer.
What did it mean for Jesus to go to the Father? It meant first of all that the work of redemption was complete. He would go to the Father by way of the resurrection which would declare His victory and power over death hell and the devil (John 12:31; Hebrews 2:14; Colossians 2:15; Revelation 1:18; 1 Corinthians 15:55-57). When we believe with our hearts that God raised Jesus from the dead we are also believing that the power of sin was destroyed and that righteousness has come to reign in our hearts (Romans 6:3-4; 10:1-10; Colossians 3:1). Secondly, it meant that He would be exalted to the right hand of the Father and reign supremely over all principalities and powers and every name that is named both in this world and in the world to come (Ephesians 1:21;Philippians 2:9-10; Colossians 2:10). Thirdly, it meant that He would send the Holy Spirit to be with us and in us (Acts 2:33; John 7:38-39; John 14:17). Through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit the rivers of Gods life would flow out of our inner most beings and our lives would be as the life of Christ Jesus in this world (1 John 4:17; Romans 8:29). The Holy Spirit is presently convincing the world that there is no other righteousness for men than the righteousness of God in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 1:17; 3:22; 10:3; Philippians 3:9).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 16:10 - About righteousness because I now go to my Father and you no longer see me.
The ministry of the Holy Spirit is condensed into three main topics in this passage of scripture. The one topic that we will concern ourselves with here, in brief, is His work of convincing the world of righteousness. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of righteousness who is influencing every dimension of the saints emotions, passions, attitudes, thoughts and behaviors (John 14:17; 16:13-15; 7:38-39; Romans 8:4,9-10,14,29; Titus 3:5).
First and foremost the the Holy Spirit is the one who convinces the world that Jesus is the righteous servant of God that makes many righteous (Isaiah 53:11; John 8:28; 14:20; 1 Timothy 3:16). John made it clear that anyone who knows that Jesus is righteous will also know that everyone who does righteousness has been born of Him (1 John 2:29). John further unites the righteousness of Jesus and the believer by saying " let no one deceive you everyone who does righteousness is righteous even as He is righteous" (John 3:7; John 14:20; 17:22). Through the revelation of the righteousness of Jesus the Holy Spirit reveals to the world a whole new standard of righteousness, one that reaches far beyond the Law. Secondly, He convinces us that God has made us righteous for, "Who shall lay any charge to God's elect for it is God who makes righteous" (Romans 8:33; 5:1). The Holy Spirit is the one who has brought grace into our hearts so that we can believe unto righteousness (Romans 10:10; Titus 2:11-12).The work of the Holy Spirit centers around these three things: to glorify Jesus, to make Him known and to bring new life and power to the believer.
What did it mean for Jesus to go to the Father? It meant first of all that the work of redemption was complete. He would go to the Father by way of the resurrection which would declare His victory and power over death hell and the devil (John 12:31; Hebrews 2:14; Colossians 2:15; Revelation 1:18; 1 Corinthians 15:55-57). When we believe with our hearts that God raised Jesus from the dead we are also believing that the power of sin was destroyed and that righteousness has come to reign in our hearts (Romans 6:3-4; 10:1-10; Colossians 3:1). Secondly, it meant that He would be exalted to the right hand of the Father and reign supremely over all principalities and powers and every name that is named both in this world and in the world to come (Ephesians 1:21;Philippians 2:9-10; Colossians 2:10). Thirdly, it meant that He would send the Holy Spirit to be with us and in us (Acts 2:33; John 7:38-39; John 14:17). Through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit the rivers of Gods life would flow out of our inner most beings and our lives would be as the life of Christ Jesus in this world (1 John 4:17; Romans 8:29). The Holy Spirit is presently convincing the world that there is no other righteousness for men than the righteousness of God in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 1:17; 3:22; 10:3; Philippians 3:9).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
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