Sept. 18
Daily Bread
Romans 8:12 - “Indeed then brethren we are not in debt to the flesh to live after the flesh.”
One who is in debt or a debtor is one who is in bondage or under obligation to another to work for them to clear their debt. They are not free to pursue their own interests and live their own lives until that debt is paid. Those who are in Christ Jesus have no debt. All of our debt has been paid in full by Jesus Christ and now we are no longer under any obligation to the powers of darkness nor a sin cursed world.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Sept. 16
Daily Bread
Romans 8:11 - "And if the Spirit that raised up Jesus from the dead dwells in you the one that raised up Christ from the dead shall also make alive your body that is subject to death through the Spirit of Him that dwells in you."
God subjected all mankind to death because of Adam’s sin. This subjugation to death as it relates to man’s physical body is emphasized by the Greek adjective ‘thnetos’ which means ‘mortal’ or ‘subject to death’ or ‘bodies which will die.’ The same one who subjected us to death in hope of the resurrection has made provision for us to receive divine health through the working of His Spirit that dwells in us (1 Corinthians 12:7-10; Acts 19:11-12). While it is true that once our bodies die they will be raised up from the dead; it is equally true that when we become sick God has provided a means of healing by the Holy Spirit. In these verses, the subject is the current state of our body which is viewed as now being dead even though we are living. The dead state of our bodies is contrasted to the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit who dwells within us. Thus, the making alive of our mortal bodies now refers to the healing of the body from disease and sickness.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Daily Bread
Romans 8:11 - "And if the Spirit that raised up Jesus from the dead dwells in you the one that raised up Christ from the dead shall also make alive your body that is subject to death through the Spirit of Him that dwells in you."
God subjected all mankind to death because of Adam’s sin. This subjugation to death as it relates to man’s physical body is emphasized by the Greek adjective ‘thnetos’ which means ‘mortal’ or ‘subject to death’ or ‘bodies which will die.’ The same one who subjected us to death in hope of the resurrection has made provision for us to receive divine health through the working of His Spirit that dwells in us (1 Corinthians 12:7-10; Acts 19:11-12). While it is true that once our bodies die they will be raised up from the dead; it is equally true that when we become sick God has provided a means of healing by the Holy Spirit. In these verses, the subject is the current state of our body which is viewed as now being dead even though we are living. The dead state of our bodies is contrasted to the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit who dwells within us. Thus, the making alive of our mortal bodies now refers to the healing of the body from disease and sickness.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Sept. 15
Romans 8:9 - "And you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ this one is not His."
Paul makes it absolutely clear to the saints that they are not in the flesh. The definition and proof that a person is not in the flesh is that the Spirit of God dwells in them. In order to make it perfectly clear concerning who has the Spirit of God dwelling in them Paul makes it known that he is referring to the Spirit of Christ. These are those who are in Christ because of the spiritual birth. When Jesus was talking to Nicodemus about the new birth He said, “that which is born of the flesh is flesh but that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit” (John 3:6). John described those who are born of the Spirit and made sons of God as being those that were, “not born of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man but of God”, (John 1:13). Obviously, Paul is not referring to a natural human body when he uses the word flesh. He is speaking of the unredeemed who have not been born of the Spirit. The argument therefore goes that since we have been born of the Spirit we are led and governed by the Spirit and, therefore, are no longer prisoners to realm of condemnation - nor are we dependent on human ability to please God.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Romans 8:9 - "And you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ this one is not His."
Paul makes it absolutely clear to the saints that they are not in the flesh. The definition and proof that a person is not in the flesh is that the Spirit of God dwells in them. In order to make it perfectly clear concerning who has the Spirit of God dwelling in them Paul makes it known that he is referring to the Spirit of Christ. These are those who are in Christ because of the spiritual birth. When Jesus was talking to Nicodemus about the new birth He said, “that which is born of the flesh is flesh but that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit” (John 3:6). John described those who are born of the Spirit and made sons of God as being those that were, “not born of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man but of God”, (John 1:13). Obviously, Paul is not referring to a natural human body when he uses the word flesh. He is speaking of the unredeemed who have not been born of the Spirit. The argument therefore goes that since we have been born of the Spirit we are led and governed by the Spirit and, therefore, are no longer prisoners to realm of condemnation - nor are we dependent on human ability to please God.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Daily Bread
Romans 8:1 - "There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit."
One of the ways that we can understand the meaning of "flesh" is human ability. Mankind through his own human ability cannot fulfill the promises of God. An example of this is given in Galatians chapter four: Abraham attempted to fulfill the promise of God through his own human ability (4:23, 29). We know that Abraham did not stagger at the promises of God, but at one point he thought that he would be able to fulfill God's promises through his own ability, and, therefore, took his concubine Hagar to wife (Romans 4:20). It is this same human ability that is addressed in verse 3 as the reason for the Law being weak. The Law was powerless to impart the life or the Spirit of God, and, therefore, it was dependent upon man's human ability and discipline to fulfill the righteousness of God (Galatians 3:21). Jesus told Nicodemus, the ruler of the Jews, that those who had been born of the flesh were flesh (earthly or natural). Therefore, flesh may be understood as the natural human ability or "self" to which Jesus said He could do nothing by, "I can of my own self do nothing" and to which Paul said he knew nothing by and to which we are all commanded to deny (John 5:29; 1 Corinthians 4:4; Matthew 9:32). It is this natural life that was subjected to death and condemned under a penalty of eternal death because of Adam's transgression. It was also to this flesh or earthly existence that the Word was made, thereby, becoming the sin offering for all of mankind. Jesus suffered in the flesh and we are commanded to arm ourselves with the same mind (1Peter 4:1-2). So as Jesus was subject to temptation and suffered being tempted but did not yield, we ourselves are to be partakers of the same (Hebrews 2:18; 5:8). Having been renewed and restored to the glory of God by the Spirit we are empowered to resist the devil and abstain from fleshly lusts which war against our soul. Now that we have been born of the Spirit and clothed with the glory of God we are empowered to live a life free from sin.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Romans 8:1 - "There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit."
One of the ways that we can understand the meaning of "flesh" is human ability. Mankind through his own human ability cannot fulfill the promises of God. An example of this is given in Galatians chapter four: Abraham attempted to fulfill the promise of God through his own human ability (4:23, 29). We know that Abraham did not stagger at the promises of God, but at one point he thought that he would be able to fulfill God's promises through his own ability, and, therefore, took his concubine Hagar to wife (Romans 4:20). It is this same human ability that is addressed in verse 3 as the reason for the Law being weak. The Law was powerless to impart the life or the Spirit of God, and, therefore, it was dependent upon man's human ability and discipline to fulfill the righteousness of God (Galatians 3:21). Jesus told Nicodemus, the ruler of the Jews, that those who had been born of the flesh were flesh (earthly or natural). Therefore, flesh may be understood as the natural human ability or "self" to which Jesus said He could do nothing by, "I can of my own self do nothing" and to which Paul said he knew nothing by and to which we are all commanded to deny (John 5:29; 1 Corinthians 4:4; Matthew 9:32). It is this natural life that was subjected to death and condemned under a penalty of eternal death because of Adam's transgression. It was also to this flesh or earthly existence that the Word was made, thereby, becoming the sin offering for all of mankind. Jesus suffered in the flesh and we are commanded to arm ourselves with the same mind (1Peter 4:1-2). So as Jesus was subject to temptation and suffered being tempted but did not yield, we ourselves are to be partakers of the same (Hebrews 2:18; 5:8). Having been renewed and restored to the glory of God by the Spirit we are empowered to resist the devil and abstain from fleshly lusts which war against our soul. Now that we have been born of the Spirit and clothed with the glory of God we are empowered to live a life free from sin.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Daily Bread
Romans 8:7 - "In as much as fleshly thinking is opposed to God for it is not subject to the Law of God neither indeed is it able."
God desires us to think in a totally different way than we have learned from our natural experiences. He desires us to believe and expect the supernatural things that He has revealed to us in His word. Those things that God desires us to think and do have not been revealed through man's wisdom and experience. What God has for us cannot be received or accomplished through human insight and ability. It is only by the Spirit that we are able to do the things that please God. The things of the Spirit are so different from what human experience dictates that they are foolish to the man who only thinks in the realm of human ability (1 Corinthians 2:14). God desires to show us things by His Spirit which eyes have not seen, nor ears heard, neither has ever entered into the heart of man. God operates in a spiritual, unseen world from which the mouths of lions are stopped, and the violence of fire has no power. This is the spiritual realm where Jesus our Lord turned the water into wine, walked on the water, and raised the dead. It is the realm of faith where righteousness is victorious over all sin and disobedience. The realm of the Spirit is the realm taught to us by the word of God where we learn to be led by the Spirit of God. It is only in this realm that we can please God.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Romans 8:7 - "In as much as fleshly thinking is opposed to God for it is not subject to the Law of God neither indeed is it able."
God desires us to think in a totally different way than we have learned from our natural experiences. He desires us to believe and expect the supernatural things that He has revealed to us in His word. Those things that God desires us to think and do have not been revealed through man's wisdom and experience. What God has for us cannot be received or accomplished through human insight and ability. It is only by the Spirit that we are able to do the things that please God. The things of the Spirit are so different from what human experience dictates that they are foolish to the man who only thinks in the realm of human ability (1 Corinthians 2:14). God desires to show us things by His Spirit which eyes have not seen, nor ears heard, neither has ever entered into the heart of man. God operates in a spiritual, unseen world from which the mouths of lions are stopped, and the violence of fire has no power. This is the spiritual realm where Jesus our Lord turned the water into wine, walked on the water, and raised the dead. It is the realm of faith where righteousness is victorious over all sin and disobedience. The realm of the Spirit is the realm taught to us by the word of God where we learn to be led by the Spirit of God. It is only in this realm that we can please God.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Daily Bread
Romans 8:4 - "That the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit."
Paul provides insight to the facts regarding the righteousness of the Law and man's inability to walk in it in Romans chapter 7. He proves that those who were depending upon the Law for righteousness were, in reality, under the law of sin and death and, therefore, unable to fulfill the righteousness of the Law. Paul argues that the Law was just, good, and holy but that those attempting to keep the Law were themselves sold under sin, and, as a result, the law of sin was at work in their members (Romans 7:14, 21, 22, 23, 25 also 5:14, 17, 21). Now through the new birth which has brought the believer into Christ Jesus and, thus, into the life of the Spirit, the righteousness of the Law is fulfilled through God's divine ability at work in us. The righteousness of the Law is fulfilled because the believer does not depend upon human ability dominated by the law of sin but the Spirit of God reigning over the new creation in Christ Jesus. Now that the curse of the law of sin and death has been broken and the Spirit of God has come into the life of the believer, sin has no more dominion. The child of God has been lifted beyond their strength and human discipline to the realm of the operation of Holy Spirit who is at work in their members (Romans 6:4-14).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Romans 8:4 - "That the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit."
Paul provides insight to the facts regarding the righteousness of the Law and man's inability to walk in it in Romans chapter 7. He proves that those who were depending upon the Law for righteousness were, in reality, under the law of sin and death and, therefore, unable to fulfill the righteousness of the Law. Paul argues that the Law was just, good, and holy but that those attempting to keep the Law were themselves sold under sin, and, as a result, the law of sin was at work in their members (Romans 7:14, 21, 22, 23, 25 also 5:14, 17, 21). Now through the new birth which has brought the believer into Christ Jesus and, thus, into the life of the Spirit, the righteousness of the Law is fulfilled through God's divine ability at work in us. The righteousness of the Law is fulfilled because the believer does not depend upon human ability dominated by the law of sin but the Spirit of God reigning over the new creation in Christ Jesus. Now that the curse of the law of sin and death has been broken and the Spirit of God has come into the life of the believer, sin has no more dominion. The child of God has been lifted beyond their strength and human discipline to the realm of the operation of Holy Spirit who is at work in their members (Romans 6:4-14).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Monday, September 11, 2006
Daily Bread
Romans 8:3 - "For the Law was powerless in that it was weak through the flesh God sent His Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and concerning sin condemned sin in the flesh."
Although the Word, Jesus Christ, became flesh; He did not become sinful flesh (John 1:14; 1 Peter 2:22; 4:1-2). The flesh of Jesus Christ was absolutely sinless, He never one time sinned and thus condemned or pronounced sentence against sin being in the flesh. It is important to distinguish between the flesh of human ability and natural limitation and the flesh of a sinful nature. Sinful flesh refers to the depraved and wicked nature which is a condition of man because of Adam's sin (Romans 5:12-21). It is the same as the spirit of the world that works in the children of disobedience which is also all that is in the world: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life (Ephesians 2:2; 1 John 2:). The sinful flesh is the Old Man that was put to death by the death of Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 6:4-6). It is a realm belonging wholly to the god of this world the prince and power of the air, the spirit that works in the children of disobedience (Ephesians 2:3; Galatians 5:19). Sinful flesh is the state of the unredeemed man dominated by the sinful nature or fleshly lust and the works of the devil (1 Peter 2:11; 1 John 2:16; 3:8). Jesus was made like us so that we could be born again and made like him. And now we are not of this world even as He is not of this world (John 17:14,16).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Romans 8:3 - "For the Law was powerless in that it was weak through the flesh God sent His Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and concerning sin condemned sin in the flesh."
Although the Word, Jesus Christ, became flesh; He did not become sinful flesh (John 1:14; 1 Peter 2:22; 4:1-2). The flesh of Jesus Christ was absolutely sinless, He never one time sinned and thus condemned or pronounced sentence against sin being in the flesh. It is important to distinguish between the flesh of human ability and natural limitation and the flesh of a sinful nature. Sinful flesh refers to the depraved and wicked nature which is a condition of man because of Adam's sin (Romans 5:12-21). It is the same as the spirit of the world that works in the children of disobedience which is also all that is in the world: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life (Ephesians 2:2; 1 John 2:). The sinful flesh is the Old Man that was put to death by the death of Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 6:4-6). It is a realm belonging wholly to the god of this world the prince and power of the air, the spirit that works in the children of disobedience (Ephesians 2:3; Galatians 5:19). Sinful flesh is the state of the unredeemed man dominated by the sinful nature or fleshly lust and the works of the devil (1 Peter 2:11; 1 John 2:16; 3:8). Jesus was made like us so that we could be born again and made like him. And now we are not of this world even as He is not of this world (John 17:14,16).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Daily Bread
Acts 2:1 - "And in the day that Pentecost was fulfilled everyone had one passion before Him."
The Greek word 'homothumadon,' translated passion, is a compound of two words meaning to "rush along" and "in unison." This compound word literally means with the 'same passion' or 'same fierceness.' "The image is almost musical; a number of notes are sounded which, while different, harmonize in pitch and tone. As the instruments of a great concert under the direction of a concert master, so the Holy Spirit blends together the lives of members of the church of Christ" (James Strong). The intensity of this word serves to communicate both the commitment and excitement that united them as they waited for the Promise of the Father. Of the 12 times that this word is found in the New Testament, 11 of them are in the book of Acts. This word helps to communicate the dedication that those in the church had for one another. In their passion of love and obedience to the Lord Jesus Christ, they were one. Through this scripture God has shown to us the model of what He expects if we are to be baptized with the Holy Spirit and Fire in our meetings.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Acts 2:1 - "And in the day that Pentecost was fulfilled everyone had one passion before Him."
The Greek word 'homothumadon,' translated passion, is a compound of two words meaning to "rush along" and "in unison." This compound word literally means with the 'same passion' or 'same fierceness.' "The image is almost musical; a number of notes are sounded which, while different, harmonize in pitch and tone. As the instruments of a great concert under the direction of a concert master, so the Holy Spirit blends together the lives of members of the church of Christ" (James Strong). The intensity of this word serves to communicate both the commitment and excitement that united them as they waited for the Promise of the Father. Of the 12 times that this word is found in the New Testament, 11 of them are in the book of Acts. This word helps to communicate the dedication that those in the church had for one another. In their passion of love and obedience to the Lord Jesus Christ, they were one. Through this scripture God has shown to us the model of what He expects if we are to be baptized with the Holy Spirit and Fire in our meetings.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Friday, September 08, 2006
Daily Bread
1 Peter1:22 - "Whom having purified your souls by the obedience to the truth unto unfeigned love, love one another fervently from a pure heart."
In order to cooperate with God we must know His will. His will is expressed to us by His word. However, if our hearts are hard and callous against God then we cannot be subject to His word. The unredeemed person has a stony and callous heart which is described by the prophet Ezekiel when he announced what God would do to change the heart: "A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you, and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit within you and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments and do them" (36:26-27). When a person is born of the Spirit and of the Word they receive a new heart that is sensitive and yielded to God (Colossians 2:11; Romans 2:2). God writes His words on these fleshly tables of our heart so that we may know them, be inspired by them, and sensitive to them (2 Corinthians 3:3). It is His word that builds us up and give us an inheritance among all the saints (Acts 20:32). It is His word that strengthens, quickens, and causes us to grow (Hebrews 4:12; 1 Thessalonians 2:13). We must recognize that sin hardens the heart and makes it hard against the word of God. However, through an obedient and submissive heart to the Holy Spirit we are able to lay aside all of those things that oppose us. Through a new and sensitive heart toward God we are able to receive the fresh nourishment of the word that causes us to grow and mature (Hebrews 3:13; Psalms 66:18).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 Peter1:22 - "Whom having purified your souls by the obedience to the truth unto unfeigned love, love one another fervently from a pure heart."
In order to cooperate with God we must know His will. His will is expressed to us by His word. However, if our hearts are hard and callous against God then we cannot be subject to His word. The unredeemed person has a stony and callous heart which is described by the prophet Ezekiel when he announced what God would do to change the heart: "A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you, and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit within you and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments and do them" (36:26-27). When a person is born of the Spirit and of the Word they receive a new heart that is sensitive and yielded to God (Colossians 2:11; Romans 2:2). God writes His words on these fleshly tables of our heart so that we may know them, be inspired by them, and sensitive to them (2 Corinthians 3:3). It is His word that builds us up and give us an inheritance among all the saints (Acts 20:32). It is His word that strengthens, quickens, and causes us to grow (Hebrews 4:12; 1 Thessalonians 2:13). We must recognize that sin hardens the heart and makes it hard against the word of God. However, through an obedient and submissive heart to the Holy Spirit we are able to lay aside all of those things that oppose us. Through a new and sensitive heart toward God we are able to receive the fresh nourishment of the word that causes us to grow and mature (Hebrews 3:13; Psalms 66:18).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Daily Bread
1 Peter 1:14-15 - "As obedient children not conforming to the former desires in your ignorance. But according to His holy calling you shall also be Holy in all conversation."
The former desires are those desires that ruled the passions before the new birth. The former desires are inspired by the god of this world, the spirit that works in the children of disobedience. Satan attacks the child of God and attempts to impose his desires upon them. The satanic desire is expressed by all that is in the world: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life. However, the Holy Calling has not only called us to be totally separate from all these things, but has also empowered us with the desires of the Father. As we yield to the Holy Spirit, the joy and wellsprings of holiness flow out of us as rivers of living water. We find ourselves having only one desire, and that is to please the Father. His ways become our ways and His desires our desires. In this realm of Holy Spirit inspiration we are called to resist the devil steadfast in the faith and not allow those former desires to have any place in our lives.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 Peter 1:14-15 - "As obedient children not conforming to the former desires in your ignorance. But according to His holy calling you shall also be Holy in all conversation."
The former desires are those desires that ruled the passions before the new birth. The former desires are inspired by the god of this world, the spirit that works in the children of disobedience. Satan attacks the child of God and attempts to impose his desires upon them. The satanic desire is expressed by all that is in the world: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life. However, the Holy Calling has not only called us to be totally separate from all these things, but has also empowered us with the desires of the Father. As we yield to the Holy Spirit, the joy and wellsprings of holiness flow out of us as rivers of living water. We find ourselves having only one desire, and that is to please the Father. His ways become our ways and His desires our desires. In this realm of Holy Spirit inspiration we are called to resist the devil steadfast in the faith and not allow those former desires to have any place in our lives.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Daily Bread
Ephesians 1:18 - "The eyes of your understanding being enlightened to know His calling which is your confidence and which is the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the holy ones."
The notion of "His calling" conveys a profound meaning; for we know from Hebrews 3:1 that His calling is a heavenly calling and from 2 Timothy 1:9 that it is a holy calling. The calling is to represent Jesus, to be His ambassadors, and to stand in His place. We have been called to be His witnesses which necessitates being endued with power from On High. His calling is a call for us to stand in the place of Jesus Christ and minister to mankind just as His only begotten Son Jesus did. We have been called to cast out devils, to lay hands on the sick, and proclaim the day of deliverance to all mankind. We are called not only to do the works that Jesus did but even greater works (John 14:12). This holy calling that we have been called unto is one that demonstrates that Jesus abolished death with all of its pain, sickness, sin, and suffering and has brought life and immortality into the brilliantly visible light of heaven so that all mankind might see that Jesus is Lord over all things and through His mighty redeeming power has destroyed the works of the devil (2 Timothy 1:9; 1 John 3:8). The Holy Spirit has come to make known to us all that Jesus has supplied to us (John 16:12-15). It is only by the revelation of the Spirit that we are able to know these things that eyes have not seen, nor ears heard, nor has entered into the heart of man (1 Corinthians 2: 9-10). I pray that you will be filled with this wisdom and revelation today!
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Ephesians 1:18 - "The eyes of your understanding being enlightened to know His calling which is your confidence and which is the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the holy ones."
The notion of "His calling" conveys a profound meaning; for we know from Hebrews 3:1 that His calling is a heavenly calling and from 2 Timothy 1:9 that it is a holy calling. The calling is to represent Jesus, to be His ambassadors, and to stand in His place. We have been called to be His witnesses which necessitates being endued with power from On High. His calling is a call for us to stand in the place of Jesus Christ and minister to mankind just as His only begotten Son Jesus did. We have been called to cast out devils, to lay hands on the sick, and proclaim the day of deliverance to all mankind. We are called not only to do the works that Jesus did but even greater works (John 14:12). This holy calling that we have been called unto is one that demonstrates that Jesus abolished death with all of its pain, sickness, sin, and suffering and has brought life and immortality into the brilliantly visible light of heaven so that all mankind might see that Jesus is Lord over all things and through His mighty redeeming power has destroyed the works of the devil (2 Timothy 1:9; 1 John 3:8). The Holy Spirit has come to make known to us all that Jesus has supplied to us (John 16:12-15). It is only by the revelation of the Spirit that we are able to know these things that eyes have not seen, nor ears heard, nor has entered into the heart of man (1 Corinthians 2: 9-10). I pray that you will be filled with this wisdom and revelation today!
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Daily Bread
John 3:8 - "The Spirit breathes out where He wills and His voice you hear but you do not know where He comes from and where He is going, so are those who are begotten by the Spirit."
The Greek word, 'pneuma,' is found both at the beginning and at the end of this verse. One of the important issues under consideration is that as the Spirit is so are those begotten by the Spirit. Now it would make no sense at all if for the sake of consistency pneuma was translated wind for then as the wind is so are those begotten of the wind. Although 'pneuma' can be translated wind, of the 360 times that it occurs in the New Testament it never means wind. There is no reason to translate pneuma, wind even though it may be translated both wind and spirit. The Latin version also translates 'pneuma' as "Spirit" in this verse. The Holy Spirit is not only the subject of this passage He is the one who we are begotten by. The mystery surrounding the Spirit's activity also surrounds those begotten of Him, for as the world cannot know Him neither can the world know those begotten of Him (John 14:17; 17:14; 1 John 4:17). In support of this translation is Green's Literal Translation by JP Green Sr., "The Spirit breaths where he desires and you hear His voice; but you do not know from where He comes, and where he goes - so is everyone who has received birth from the Spirit."
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
John 3:8 - "The Spirit breathes out where He wills and His voice you hear but you do not know where He comes from and where He is going, so are those who are begotten by the Spirit."
The Greek word, 'pneuma,' is found both at the beginning and at the end of this verse. One of the important issues under consideration is that as the Spirit is so are those begotten by the Spirit. Now it would make no sense at all if for the sake of consistency pneuma was translated wind for then as the wind is so are those begotten of the wind. Although 'pneuma' can be translated wind, of the 360 times that it occurs in the New Testament it never means wind. There is no reason to translate pneuma, wind even though it may be translated both wind and spirit. The Latin version also translates 'pneuma' as "Spirit" in this verse. The Holy Spirit is not only the subject of this passage He is the one who we are begotten by. The mystery surrounding the Spirit's activity also surrounds those begotten of Him, for as the world cannot know Him neither can the world know those begotten of Him (John 14:17; 17:14; 1 John 4:17). In support of this translation is Green's Literal Translation by JP Green Sr., "The Spirit breaths where he desires and you hear His voice; but you do not know from where He comes, and where he goes - so is everyone who has received birth from the Spirit."
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Daily Bread
1 John 3:9-10 - "Everyone who has been begotten of God does not sin because His seed abides in him and he cannot sin because he is born of God. In this is manifested the children of God and the children of the devi: everyone who does not act righteously is not of God, neither is he who loves not his brother."
The seed or word of God produces a new spirit and heart within the believer (Ezekiel 36:26; John 3:5,6). The new spirit and the new heart that we have received are joined unto the Lord Jesus. It is the Spirit and nature of Christ Jesus that is formed in us through the new birth (Colossians 1:27, Ephesians 3:17; 1 John 3:24, Romans 8:9,10; 13:14; Galatians 3:27; 4:19; Ephesians 2:10; 1 John 4:4). It is because of the new birth that the divine nature resides in us. It is His nature that produces the ability to please God and empowers us with the ability to escape the corruption that is in the world through lust (2 Peter 1:5; Ephesians 4:24). Paul makes a similar connection between Christ Jesus and the word proving that the word of God is in our heart and in our mouth (Romans 10:8). As those begotten of God and ruled by the Spirit of God, the word of God, and Christ Jesus, we cannot sin. As John previously said, the anointing that we have received of Him teaches us to abide in Him, and abiding in Him will only produce righteousness (1 John 2:27). So long as we remain submitted and yielded to His rulership we will find ourselves enjoying His abundant life of purity, joy, righteousness, and peace. In reality, abiding in the word and keeping the word are one in the same. Those who keep His word have the love of God perfected in them (1 John 2:5). Abiding in the word, doing righteousness, and loving the brethren are reemphasized in the following two verses. We may understand from both the preceding and following verses that those who are born of God cannot hate their brethren.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 John 3:9-10 - "Everyone who has been begotten of God does not sin because His seed abides in him and he cannot sin because he is born of God. In this is manifested the children of God and the children of the devi: everyone who does not act righteously is not of God, neither is he who loves not his brother."
The seed or word of God produces a new spirit and heart within the believer (Ezekiel 36:26; John 3:5,6). The new spirit and the new heart that we have received are joined unto the Lord Jesus. It is the Spirit and nature of Christ Jesus that is formed in us through the new birth (Colossians 1:27, Ephesians 3:17; 1 John 3:24, Romans 8:9,10; 13:14; Galatians 3:27; 4:19; Ephesians 2:10; 1 John 4:4). It is because of the new birth that the divine nature resides in us. It is His nature that produces the ability to please God and empowers us with the ability to escape the corruption that is in the world through lust (2 Peter 1:5; Ephesians 4:24). Paul makes a similar connection between Christ Jesus and the word proving that the word of God is in our heart and in our mouth (Romans 10:8). As those begotten of God and ruled by the Spirit of God, the word of God, and Christ Jesus, we cannot sin. As John previously said, the anointing that we have received of Him teaches us to abide in Him, and abiding in Him will only produce righteousness (1 John 2:27). So long as we remain submitted and yielded to His rulership we will find ourselves enjoying His abundant life of purity, joy, righteousness, and peace. In reality, abiding in the word and keeping the word are one in the same. Those who keep His word have the love of God perfected in them (1 John 2:5). Abiding in the word, doing righteousness, and loving the brethren are reemphasized in the following two verses. We may understand from both the preceding and following verses that those who are born of God cannot hate their brethren.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Saturday, September 02, 2006
Daily Bread
1 John 3:9 - "Everyone who has been begotten of God does not sin because His seed abides in him, and he cannot sin because he is born of God."
The Greek word 'sperma' which is translated "seed" is used to represent the word of God. Another very familiar scripture that uses this Greek word is in the parable of the sower who "went forth to sow seed (sperma)," Matthew 13:24. Similarly, we read in James 1:18 and 1 Peter 1:23 that we were begotten by the word (spora) of God. Understanding the usage of this very potent word 'sperma' both here and in Matthew 13:24 causes us to see that the word of God is the life-giving reproducing power of God at work in us. If we remain in submission to the word of God and the Spirit of God (John 3:6) and walk in the divine nature (2 Peter 1:5, 2 Corinthians 5:17) that we received when we were born of God then we cannot sin. Why? Because in this state of surrender and submission to God we would only do His will. Both the Spirit of God and the word of God only lead us into truth and righteousness. However, this does not negate the fact that we can choose not to be submitted to God's Spirit and word. Because of God's unfailing mercy if we choose to be disobedient and sin then we have a means of forgiveness (1 John 1:9; 2:2).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 John 3:9 - "Everyone who has been begotten of God does not sin because His seed abides in him, and he cannot sin because he is born of God."
The Greek word 'sperma' which is translated "seed" is used to represent the word of God. Another very familiar scripture that uses this Greek word is in the parable of the sower who "went forth to sow seed (sperma)," Matthew 13:24. Similarly, we read in James 1:18 and 1 Peter 1:23 that we were begotten by the word (spora) of God. Understanding the usage of this very potent word 'sperma' both here and in Matthew 13:24 causes us to see that the word of God is the life-giving reproducing power of God at work in us. If we remain in submission to the word of God and the Spirit of God (John 3:6) and walk in the divine nature (2 Peter 1:5, 2 Corinthians 5:17) that we received when we were born of God then we cannot sin. Why? Because in this state of surrender and submission to God we would only do His will. Both the Spirit of God and the word of God only lead us into truth and righteousness. However, this does not negate the fact that we can choose not to be submitted to God's Spirit and word. Because of God's unfailing mercy if we choose to be disobedient and sin then we have a means of forgiveness (1 John 1:9; 2:2).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Friday, September 01, 2006
Daily Bread
1 John 3:17 - "But he who has this world's living and sees his brother in need and shuts off his inward parts from him, how does the love of God dwell in him."
The Greek word 'splanchna' which is translated "inward parts" here, translates Hebrew words in the Septuagint such as, 'beten', "belly" and 'rechem', "womb". This word is considered to be allegorical in describing the emotions. The KJV translated 'splanchna' as "inward affection" in 2 Co. 7:15. In Philippians 1:8 Paul said, "I long after you all in the splanchna of Jesus Christ". Another similar anatomical word was used in John 7:38 to describe the Holy Spirit flowing out of the belly is the word 'koilia' from which colon is derived. Its usage in classical Greek implies deep passion and emotions. Though some have attempted to distinguish between the allegorical meanings of splanchna (intestines), kolia (belly), and nefros (kidney), it is extremely doubtful whether this is really possible or practical. The semantic focus in the use of these terms is clearly the deeper and more intimate feelings and emotions. What is certain is the realms of God flows forth from the deepest regions of our feelings, living nothing superficial or fake about our actions. We no longer do things out of a legal obligation but are motivated and moved by the Holy Spirit in our deepest desires. In some languages one can use a term, which literally means "belly" or "bowels", but more often than not, these emotions are associated with some particular organ of the body such as heart, spleen, liver, etc. Rather, than attempting to employ a figurative expression which may or may not be fully equivalent, it is often preferable to refer to the emotional content by using terms such as "feelings", "intents", "desires", or "compassion", depending upon the context. (Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament based on Semantic Domains, (New York: United Bible Societies) 1988, 1989.)
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 John 3:17 - "But he who has this world's living and sees his brother in need and shuts off his inward parts from him, how does the love of God dwell in him."
The Greek word 'splanchna' which is translated "inward parts" here, translates Hebrew words in the Septuagint such as, 'beten', "belly" and 'rechem', "womb". This word is considered to be allegorical in describing the emotions. The KJV translated 'splanchna' as "inward affection" in 2 Co. 7:15. In Philippians 1:8 Paul said, "I long after you all in the splanchna of Jesus Christ". Another similar anatomical word was used in John 7:38 to describe the Holy Spirit flowing out of the belly is the word 'koilia' from which colon is derived. Its usage in classical Greek implies deep passion and emotions. Though some have attempted to distinguish between the allegorical meanings of splanchna (intestines), kolia (belly), and nefros (kidney), it is extremely doubtful whether this is really possible or practical. The semantic focus in the use of these terms is clearly the deeper and more intimate feelings and emotions. What is certain is the realms of God flows forth from the deepest regions of our feelings, living nothing superficial or fake about our actions. We no longer do things out of a legal obligation but are motivated and moved by the Holy Spirit in our deepest desires. In some languages one can use a term, which literally means "belly" or "bowels", but more often than not, these emotions are associated with some particular organ of the body such as heart, spleen, liver, etc. Rather, than attempting to employ a figurative expression which may or may not be fully equivalent, it is often preferable to refer to the emotional content by using terms such as "feelings", "intents", "desires", or "compassion", depending upon the context. (Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament based on Semantic Domains, (New York: United Bible Societies) 1988, 1989.)
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Daily Bread
1 John 4:17 - "In this the love is perfected within us that we may have confidence in the day of judgment because as He is so are we in this world."
The most yielded state of the heart is being at rest knowing that you are loved. God wants us to know His love. In this state of confidence and faith we will receive everything that Jesus wants to transmit into our hearts by the Holy Spirit. When Father wanted to convince Abraham of the things that He promised He swore an oath to Him. Today, He has even done something greater for us. In order to convince us of His love and commitment to us He sent His only begotten Son to die for us at Calvary. We must respond to His love and accept the fact that He loves us and cares for us so intensely that He spared not His own Son for our sakes. In is essential that we continually recline in the love of God, that we may be "rooted and grounded in love in order to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height, and to know the love of Christ that passes knowledge that you might be filled with all of the fullness of God" (Ephesians 3:17-19).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 John 4:17 - "In this the love is perfected within us that we may have confidence in the day of judgment because as He is so are we in this world."
The most yielded state of the heart is being at rest knowing that you are loved. God wants us to know His love. In this state of confidence and faith we will receive everything that Jesus wants to transmit into our hearts by the Holy Spirit. When Father wanted to convince Abraham of the things that He promised He swore an oath to Him. Today, He has even done something greater for us. In order to convince us of His love and commitment to us He sent His only begotten Son to die for us at Calvary. We must respond to His love and accept the fact that He loves us and cares for us so intensely that He spared not His own Son for our sakes. In is essential that we continually recline in the love of God, that we may be "rooted and grounded in love in order to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height, and to know the love of Christ that passes knowledge that you might be filled with all of the fullness of God" (Ephesians 3:17-19).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Daily Bread
Acts 8:17 - "At that time they laid their hands upon them and they received the Holy Spirit."
Of the three times that the phrase "lambano pneuma agion" (received the Holy Spirit) is used in the New Testament two of them describe the fact that the recipients of the Holy Spirit received the language of the Spirit (Acts 10:47; 19:2,6). To conclude that the Samaritans were deprived of this same measure and blessing of the Holy Spirit is to step outside of revealed truth on the subject. The experience that the Samaritans had when they received the Holy Spirit was so impressive that Simon the Sorcerer was able to see the working of God's power to the extent that he was willing to pay to have it for himself (8:18). To conclude that what the Samaritans received and what Simon saw was different than the event of Acts 2:4 is to ignore the evidence of God's word. Similarly, the language of the Spirit is not expressly noted concerning Paul in Acts 9:17, yet we know for certain that he was not deprived of the full manifestation of the baptism of the Holy Spirit received by the disciples on the day of Pentecost (see footnote for Acts 9:17). Reception of the Holy Spirit became of such importance to the early church that Paul's first question to the men of Ephesus was "have you received the Holy Spirit since you believed" (Acts 19:2). To the early church the reception of the Holy Spirit was one of the primary testimonies of being a believer, Acts 2:38; 4:31; 6:3, 5; 7:55; 8:15-16, 19; 9:17; 10:44; 11:15-16; 13:9; 19:2. To subjectively alter the precedence set for the gift of the Holy Spirit given in Acts 2:4 is a violation of scripture.The gift of the Holy Spirit was emphasized by Jesus and his apostles and should also be emphasized by us as well: by Jesus - Matthew 3:11; 16:17; Acts 1:5,7,8; John 7:38, 39; Luke 24:49; John 14:16,17, 26; 15:26, 27; 16:13-15.by Apostles and brethren -Acts 2:33, 38; 5:32; 6:3, 5; 7:55; 8:15-16; 9:17; 10:38, 44-45, 47; 11:15-16, 24; 13:4, 9; 15:8; 19:2, 6; Romans 5:5; 14;17; 15: 13, 16, 19; 1 Corinthians 2:4; 12:7-11;14; 2 Corinthians 5:5; Galatians 3:2-5, 14; Ephesians 3:16; 5:18; 6:18; 1 Thessalonians 1:5; 4:8; Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 1:2; Jude 20).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Acts 8:17 - "At that time they laid their hands upon them and they received the Holy Spirit."
Of the three times that the phrase "lambano pneuma agion" (received the Holy Spirit) is used in the New Testament two of them describe the fact that the recipients of the Holy Spirit received the language of the Spirit (Acts 10:47; 19:2,6). To conclude that the Samaritans were deprived of this same measure and blessing of the Holy Spirit is to step outside of revealed truth on the subject. The experience that the Samaritans had when they received the Holy Spirit was so impressive that Simon the Sorcerer was able to see the working of God's power to the extent that he was willing to pay to have it for himself (8:18). To conclude that what the Samaritans received and what Simon saw was different than the event of Acts 2:4 is to ignore the evidence of God's word. Similarly, the language of the Spirit is not expressly noted concerning Paul in Acts 9:17, yet we know for certain that he was not deprived of the full manifestation of the baptism of the Holy Spirit received by the disciples on the day of Pentecost (see footnote for Acts 9:17). Reception of the Holy Spirit became of such importance to the early church that Paul's first question to the men of Ephesus was "have you received the Holy Spirit since you believed" (Acts 19:2). To the early church the reception of the Holy Spirit was one of the primary testimonies of being a believer, Acts 2:38; 4:31; 6:3, 5; 7:55; 8:15-16, 19; 9:17; 10:44; 11:15-16; 13:9; 19:2. To subjectively alter the precedence set for the gift of the Holy Spirit given in Acts 2:4 is a violation of scripture.The gift of the Holy Spirit was emphasized by Jesus and his apostles and should also be emphasized by us as well: by Jesus - Matthew 3:11; 16:17; Acts 1:5,7,8; John 7:38, 39; Luke 24:49; John 14:16,17, 26; 15:26, 27; 16:13-15.by Apostles and brethren -Acts 2:33, 38; 5:32; 6:3, 5; 7:55; 8:15-16; 9:17; 10:38, 44-45, 47; 11:15-16, 24; 13:4, 9; 15:8; 19:2, 6; Romans 5:5; 14;17; 15: 13, 16, 19; 1 Corinthians 2:4; 12:7-11;14; 2 Corinthians 5:5; Galatians 3:2-5, 14; Ephesians 3:16; 5:18; 6:18; 1 Thessalonians 1:5; 4:8; Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 1:2; Jude 20).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Daily Bread
John 15:7 - "If you dwell in me and my words dwell in you then you may ask what you desire and it shall be done for you."
The Greek word 'menein' may be translated "remain, abide, dwell, or stay." We are to let Christ dwell in our hearts by faith and we are to dwell in Him by faith (Ephesians 3:17). Dwelling in Christ is an ongoing commitment to the fact that He is our redeemer who paid the price for our salvation. We, therefore, refuse to doubt in His love and commitment to us and we refuse to doubt our love and commitment to Him. Dwelling in Christ is, in fact, a relationship word. It is a relationship of the highest order because dwelling in Christ speaks of our identity in Him. Being in Christ means, "that as He is in this world so are we," and "for me to live is Christ" (1 John 4:17; Philippians 1:21). In the gospel of John we observe how that it was through the relationship that Jesus had with His Father that He did the mighty miracles (John 11:41; 6:11; 5:19-23). It is through our relationship with Jesus that we are able to "ask what we desire and it shall be done."
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
John 15:7 - "If you dwell in me and my words dwell in you then you may ask what you desire and it shall be done for you."
The Greek word 'menein' may be translated "remain, abide, dwell, or stay." We are to let Christ dwell in our hearts by faith and we are to dwell in Him by faith (Ephesians 3:17). Dwelling in Christ is an ongoing commitment to the fact that He is our redeemer who paid the price for our salvation. We, therefore, refuse to doubt in His love and commitment to us and we refuse to doubt our love and commitment to Him. Dwelling in Christ is, in fact, a relationship word. It is a relationship of the highest order because dwelling in Christ speaks of our identity in Him. Being in Christ means, "that as He is in this world so are we," and "for me to live is Christ" (1 John 4:17; Philippians 1:21). In the gospel of John we observe how that it was through the relationship that Jesus had with His Father that He did the mighty miracles (John 11:41; 6:11; 5:19-23). It is through our relationship with Jesus that we are able to "ask what we desire and it shall be done."
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Monday, August 28, 2006
Daily Bread
Ephesians 2:15 - "Abolishing the law of commandments in ordinances so that in Himself He created of the two one new man, making peace."
Paul calls this the "certificate of indebtedness" in Colossians 2:14 instead of the "the law of commandments in ordinances." In both cases, this was removed through the death of Jesus Christ at the cross. These ordinances were abolished and blotted out when Jesus spoiled principalities and powers. These powers refer to the domination of Satan and his evil effects over man. Now there remains no more sacrifice for sin because Jesus has paid for the sins of man in full with His own blood. To continue on making sacrifices and carrying out the cultic ritual for sin described in the Law is an offense to Christ and an obvious rejection of His redeeming blood. The need for the temple ritual of sacrifices and offerings was brought to an end by Christ Jesus when He died and arose again. The keeping of the law in any form is no longer to be for righteousness, but now all who will believe will possess the righteousness of God that comes by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ alone.
God has provided a new covenant in Christ Jesus so that both the uncircumcised and circumcised are given the same opportunity. Therefore, God has provided a level playing field where there is neither Jew nor Greek, circumcision nor uncircumcision, but a "new creation" (Galatians 6:15; 5:6; 1 Corinthians 7:19). The new covenant allows all to come boldly into the Holies of Holies which before was forbidden to anyone except the High Priest and that only once a year (Hebrew 10: 19). Both the Jew and the Gentile come to God the same way and there is no difference between them now or in the future. If they are going to walk with God then they must be born from above and made a new creature. When Adam sinned and was separated from God it was not the Law that God desired to restore to man; rather, it was fellowship. The fellowship that God wants to have with man could not come by the Law because the Law could not impart the life of God into man (Galatians 3:21). The Law was just, good, and holy but it could only point out to man his sin nature. Paul speaking of "one new man" certainly refers to the believer becoming partakers with Christ so that we become those who are "in Him" thus establishing in Himself perfect fellowship and union for us. The "one new man" may be understood as a 'single new man' made from both Jew and Gentile. Both are referred to as one new man because all must be in Christ Jesus in order to be saved and established in the new covenant. The one new man may also be understood as the church which is His body. The church has already been mentioned in Ephesians 1:23 and is being alluded to in view of the fact that Jesus is described as the cornerstone of the house that God has built. Therefore, Jesus is both the head from which the whole body (His Church) functions and the cornerstone that holds the whole building (His Church) in place. That which Jesus created in His person from both Jew and Gentile may be understood as the new covenant (2 Corinthians 3:6), the new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17), and the new man of Ephesians 4:24, all of which are the glorious newness given in Christ Jesus.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Ephesians 2:15 - "Abolishing the law of commandments in ordinances so that in Himself He created of the two one new man, making peace."
Paul calls this the "certificate of indebtedness" in Colossians 2:14 instead of the "the law of commandments in ordinances." In both cases, this was removed through the death of Jesus Christ at the cross. These ordinances were abolished and blotted out when Jesus spoiled principalities and powers. These powers refer to the domination of Satan and his evil effects over man. Now there remains no more sacrifice for sin because Jesus has paid for the sins of man in full with His own blood. To continue on making sacrifices and carrying out the cultic ritual for sin described in the Law is an offense to Christ and an obvious rejection of His redeeming blood. The need for the temple ritual of sacrifices and offerings was brought to an end by Christ Jesus when He died and arose again. The keeping of the law in any form is no longer to be for righteousness, but now all who will believe will possess the righteousness of God that comes by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ alone.
God has provided a new covenant in Christ Jesus so that both the uncircumcised and circumcised are given the same opportunity. Therefore, God has provided a level playing field where there is neither Jew nor Greek, circumcision nor uncircumcision, but a "new creation" (Galatians 6:15; 5:6; 1 Corinthians 7:19). The new covenant allows all to come boldly into the Holies of Holies which before was forbidden to anyone except the High Priest and that only once a year (Hebrew 10: 19). Both the Jew and the Gentile come to God the same way and there is no difference between them now or in the future. If they are going to walk with God then they must be born from above and made a new creature. When Adam sinned and was separated from God it was not the Law that God desired to restore to man; rather, it was fellowship. The fellowship that God wants to have with man could not come by the Law because the Law could not impart the life of God into man (Galatians 3:21). The Law was just, good, and holy but it could only point out to man his sin nature. Paul speaking of "one new man" certainly refers to the believer becoming partakers with Christ so that we become those who are "in Him" thus establishing in Himself perfect fellowship and union for us. The "one new man" may be understood as a 'single new man' made from both Jew and Gentile. Both are referred to as one new man because all must be in Christ Jesus in order to be saved and established in the new covenant. The one new man may also be understood as the church which is His body. The church has already been mentioned in Ephesians 1:23 and is being alluded to in view of the fact that Jesus is described as the cornerstone of the house that God has built. Therefore, Jesus is both the head from which the whole body (His Church) functions and the cornerstone that holds the whole building (His Church) in place. That which Jesus created in His person from both Jew and Gentile may be understood as the new covenant (2 Corinthians 3:6), the new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17), and the new man of Ephesians 4:24, all of which are the glorious newness given in Christ Jesus.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Daily Bread
Ephesians 4:1- "I call to you myself as the prisoner of the Lord; walk worthy of the calling to which you are called."
There is no other book in the Bible where the calling of God is spelled out in loftier words. Beginning in chapter 1 with the statement "Blessed with all spiritual blessings in the heavenlies" to "being filled with all of the fullness of God" in Ephesians 3:19. However, what the believer must learn is that this realm of greatness and glory in Christ Jesus functions through humility and servitude. The fact is that the greatest in the Kingdom is the servant of all. If we are to walk in the heights of God then we must be willing to allow this same mind that was in Christ Jesus to also be in us (Philippians 2:5).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Ephesians 4:1- "I call to you myself as the prisoner of the Lord; walk worthy of the calling to which you are called."
There is no other book in the Bible where the calling of God is spelled out in loftier words. Beginning in chapter 1 with the statement "Blessed with all spiritual blessings in the heavenlies" to "being filled with all of the fullness of God" in Ephesians 3:19. However, what the believer must learn is that this realm of greatness and glory in Christ Jesus functions through humility and servitude. The fact is that the greatest in the Kingdom is the servant of all. If we are to walk in the heights of God then we must be willing to allow this same mind that was in Christ Jesus to also be in us (Philippians 2:5).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Friday, August 25, 2006
Daily Bread
John 17:22 - "And I have given them the glory that you have given me so that they may be one just as we are one."
John reveals many things specific to the glory that Jesus had received from the Father. He begins with the glory that they beheld in Him "as the glory of an only begotten from the Father full of grace and truth" (1:14). When Jesus turned the water into wine in Cana of Galilee He was manifesting His glory (2:11). When Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead it was for the purpose of revealing the glory of God that was in Him (11:4). Jesus was given the Spirit without measure to empower Him to reveal the Father's glory (3:34). The glory that Father gave to Jesus, Jesus has given us as a free gift: the glory of sonship through the new birth and the glory of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit which includes the glory to both speak the words of the Father and do the works of Jesus and even greater works. It is through this glory that the child of God is made one with the Father and with His Son. Paul also revealed to the saints in Corinth that the glory of Jesus was in them when he said, "But we all, with an unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord are changed into the same image from glory to glory - even as by the Spirit of the Lord" (2 Corinthians 3:18).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
John 17:22 - "And I have given them the glory that you have given me so that they may be one just as we are one."
John reveals many things specific to the glory that Jesus had received from the Father. He begins with the glory that they beheld in Him "as the glory of an only begotten from the Father full of grace and truth" (1:14). When Jesus turned the water into wine in Cana of Galilee He was manifesting His glory (2:11). When Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead it was for the purpose of revealing the glory of God that was in Him (11:4). Jesus was given the Spirit without measure to empower Him to reveal the Father's glory (3:34). The glory that Father gave to Jesus, Jesus has given us as a free gift: the glory of sonship through the new birth and the glory of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit which includes the glory to both speak the words of the Father and do the works of Jesus and even greater works. It is through this glory that the child of God is made one with the Father and with His Son. Paul also revealed to the saints in Corinth that the glory of Jesus was in them when he said, "But we all, with an unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord are changed into the same image from glory to glory - even as by the Spirit of the Lord" (2 Corinthians 3:18).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Daily Bread
1 John 4:4 - "You are from God little children and have conquered them because greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world."
The Greater One that "is in you" is Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ both came in the flesh when He was born into the world and when he was born into the hearts of men by the Holy Spirit. That Christ Jesus dwells in those who are born of God is a well-established doctrine, (1 John 3:24; 14:20, 23; 17:23, 26). Therefore, we may understand that there is a dual meaning to "Jesus Christ is come in the flesh;" for Jesus was both manifested in the flesh when He was born of the virgin Mary and when He came to dwell on the inside of the child of God. Jesus Christ who was manifested to destroy the works of darkness is now manifested through everyone who has received Him. Thus, the Greater One that is in us opposes all that is in the world (Galatians 5:17; John 14:17; 1 John 2:16-16. The power of Jesus Christ in the life of the believer enables us to conquer the spirit of antichrist, the spirit of the world, and the spirit of deception (1 John 3:6-7).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 John 4:4 - "You are from God little children and have conquered them because greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world."
The Greater One that "is in you" is Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ both came in the flesh when He was born into the world and when he was born into the hearts of men by the Holy Spirit. That Christ Jesus dwells in those who are born of God is a well-established doctrine, (1 John 3:24; 14:20, 23; 17:23, 26). Therefore, we may understand that there is a dual meaning to "Jesus Christ is come in the flesh;" for Jesus was both manifested in the flesh when He was born of the virgin Mary and when He came to dwell on the inside of the child of God. Jesus Christ who was manifested to destroy the works of darkness is now manifested through everyone who has received Him. Thus, the Greater One that is in us opposes all that is in the world (Galatians 5:17; John 14:17; 1 John 2:16-16. The power of Jesus Christ in the life of the believer enables us to conquer the spirit of antichrist, the spirit of the world, and the spirit of deception (1 John 3:6-7).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Daily Bread
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 which He has given unto us (1 John 3:23; John 14:23). And it is through our love one for another that this union with God is revealed. It is by this divine love that all men will know that we are His disciples (John 13:35). The Holy Spirit has poured the love of God into our hearts (Romans 5:5). It is this divine love of the Father that is the evidences or fruits that the Spirit dwells in us. This kind of love does not have a human origin and is not to be placed on the same level as "love your neighbor as your self." The kind of love that the Father commands us to have for one another is the same love that Jesus has for us (John 13:34). This love is only manifested as we yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to love through us.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.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 which He has given unto us (1 John 3:23; John 14:23). And it is through our love one for another that this union with God is revealed. It is by this divine love that all men will know that we are His disciples (John 13:35). The Holy Spirit has poured the love of God into our hearts (Romans 5:5). It is this divine love of the Father that is the evidences or fruits that the Spirit dwells in us. This kind of love does not have a human origin and is not to be placed on the same level as "love your neighbor as your self." The kind of love that the Father commands us to have for one another is the same love that Jesus has for us (John 13:34). This love is only manifested as we yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to love through us.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Daily Bread
1 Peter 1:2 - "According to Father God's foreknowledge in sanctification of Spirit unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ, grace to you and peace be multiplied."
It was the plan or foreknowledge of the Father that we should be chosen by being set apart or sanctified by the Spirit. The foreknowledge of God in every case has to do with God's plan and not the individuals in the plan. We may be confident that it is God's will that all men be saved for, "He is not willing that anyone perish" and, therefore, "the grace of God has appeared to all men" (1 Corinthians 1 Peter 5; Titus 2:11). The Greek word 'prognosis,' was used by the ancients as a medical term which is still in use today; and may be defined as "a prediction about how a given situation will develop." This word, which is derived from the compound word 'pro-ginosko,' may be literally translated to "know before." It is only used twice in the New Testament, here and in Acts 2:23. The tragedy of the misunderstanding of God's foreknowledge cannot be said better than John Wesley said it so many years ago," but the doctrine of predestination is entirely changed from what it formerly was. Now it implies neither faith, peace, nor purity. It is something that will do without them all. Faith is no longer, according to the modern predestinarian scheme, a divine "evidence of things not seen," wrought in the soul by the immediate power of the Holy Ghost; not an evidence at all; but a mere notion. Neither is faith made any longer a means of holiness; but something that will do without it. Christ is no more a Savior from sin; but a defense, a countenancer of it. He is no more a fountain of spiritual life in the soul of believers, but leaves his elect inwardly dry, and outwardly unfruitful; and is made little more than a refuge from the image of the heavenly; even from righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost."
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 Peter 1:2 - "According to Father God's foreknowledge in sanctification of Spirit unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ, grace to you and peace be multiplied."
It was the plan or foreknowledge of the Father that we should be chosen by being set apart or sanctified by the Spirit. The foreknowledge of God in every case has to do with God's plan and not the individuals in the plan. We may be confident that it is God's will that all men be saved for, "He is not willing that anyone perish" and, therefore, "the grace of God has appeared to all men" (1 Corinthians 1 Peter 5; Titus 2:11). The Greek word 'prognosis,' was used by the ancients as a medical term which is still in use today; and may be defined as "a prediction about how a given situation will develop." This word, which is derived from the compound word 'pro-ginosko,' may be literally translated to "know before." It is only used twice in the New Testament, here and in Acts 2:23. The tragedy of the misunderstanding of God's foreknowledge cannot be said better than John Wesley said it so many years ago," but the doctrine of predestination is entirely changed from what it formerly was. Now it implies neither faith, peace, nor purity. It is something that will do without them all. Faith is no longer, according to the modern predestinarian scheme, a divine "evidence of things not seen," wrought in the soul by the immediate power of the Holy Ghost; not an evidence at all; but a mere notion. Neither is faith made any longer a means of holiness; but something that will do without it. Christ is no more a Savior from sin; but a defense, a countenancer of it. He is no more a fountain of spiritual life in the soul of believers, but leaves his elect inwardly dry, and outwardly unfruitful; and is made little more than a refuge from the image of the heavenly; even from righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost."
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Monday, August 21, 2006
Daily Bread
Ephesians 3:17 - "That Christ may dwell in your heart through faith being rooted and founded in love."
There is a double allegory in this thought: being rooted as a tree and founded as a building on a good foundation. Both express the stability and commitment to what our primary responsibility is as God's people. We are called to walk in love, a love that is in fact supernatural because it is divine love or the same love that Father has for us. Jesus said that by our love one for another all men would know that we are His disciples (John 13:35; 1 John 4:7). It is in knowing and believing that Christ dwells in us that the faith of God is released to produce all of the benefits of His divine nature.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Ephesians 3:17 - "That Christ may dwell in your heart through faith being rooted and founded in love."
There is a double allegory in this thought: being rooted as a tree and founded as a building on a good foundation. Both express the stability and commitment to what our primary responsibility is as God's people. We are called to walk in love, a love that is in fact supernatural because it is divine love or the same love that Father has for us. Jesus said that by our love one for another all men would know that we are His disciples (John 13:35; 1 John 4:7). It is in knowing and believing that Christ dwells in us that the faith of God is released to produce all of the benefits of His divine nature.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Daily Bread
Ephesians 2:2 - "According to that which you once walked in the age of this world according to the ruler the authority of the atmosphere the spirit that now works in the sons of disobedience."
The "spirit that now works in the sons of disobedience" is the demonic realm which has dominated men since the day that Adam sinned. The spirit that now works in the sons of disobedience is also the god of this world that blinds the minds of the unbeliever (2 Corinthians 4:4). This is the same power which Paul spoke of in Romans as "the motions of sins", and "sin that dwells in me" (Romans 7:17); the power of sin entered into the world through Adam's transgression and then passed upon all men (Romans 5: 12). Jesus was manifested to destroy the works of the devil and for all those who will believe in the redemption that is in Christ Jesus this power and dominion of the Satanic realm has been destroyed (1 John 3:5; John 12:31; Hebrews 2:14). Jesus conquered Satan and now the church is commissioned to enforce His conquest.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Ephesians 2:2 - "According to that which you once walked in the age of this world according to the ruler the authority of the atmosphere the spirit that now works in the sons of disobedience."
The "spirit that now works in the sons of disobedience" is the demonic realm which has dominated men since the day that Adam sinned. The spirit that now works in the sons of disobedience is also the god of this world that blinds the minds of the unbeliever (2 Corinthians 4:4). This is the same power which Paul spoke of in Romans as "the motions of sins", and "sin that dwells in me" (Romans 7:17); the power of sin entered into the world through Adam's transgression and then passed upon all men (Romans 5: 12). Jesus was manifested to destroy the works of the devil and for all those who will believe in the redemption that is in Christ Jesus this power and dominion of the Satanic realm has been destroyed (1 John 3:5; John 12:31; Hebrews 2:14). Jesus conquered Satan and now the church is commissioned to enforce His conquest.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Friday, August 18, 2006
Daily Bread
Ephesians 1:23 - "Who is His body the fullness of Him that fills all in all."
The church is able to be the fullness of the Lord Jesus Christ because of the fullness of the Holy Spirit that has been given. The Greek word 'pleroma' designates that which is filled up and overflowing. This same word is used in John 1:16 which declares of all the saints "And of His fullness have all we received." It is also used of the believer in Ephesians 3:19, "that you may be filled with all of the fullness of God." And again in Ephesians 4:13, "come to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ." All fullness dwells in Christ and Christ dwells in us (Colossians 1:19, 1 John 4:4; 3:24; John 14:23). Those who would relegate the function of the Holy Spirit and the measure that was given to the apostles solely to the first century church have no basis to do so. In fact, scriptures such as these emphasize that the same revelation and measure of the Spirit is available to all for all time (John 14:16; 16:13-15; Colossians 1:26; Galatians 3:14; Luke 11:13; Acts 2:39; 11:15-16; 15:8-9).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Ephesians 1:23 - "Who is His body the fullness of Him that fills all in all."
The church is able to be the fullness of the Lord Jesus Christ because of the fullness of the Holy Spirit that has been given. The Greek word 'pleroma' designates that which is filled up and overflowing. This same word is used in John 1:16 which declares of all the saints "And of His fullness have all we received." It is also used of the believer in Ephesians 3:19, "that you may be filled with all of the fullness of God." And again in Ephesians 4:13, "come to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ." All fullness dwells in Christ and Christ dwells in us (Colossians 1:19, 1 John 4:4; 3:24; John 14:23). Those who would relegate the function of the Holy Spirit and the measure that was given to the apostles solely to the first century church have no basis to do so. In fact, scriptures such as these emphasize that the same revelation and measure of the Spirit is available to all for all time (John 14:16; 16:13-15; Colossians 1:26; Galatians 3:14; Luke 11:13; Acts 2:39; 11:15-16; 15:8-9).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Daily Bread
Ephesians 1:23 - "Who is His body the fullness of Him that fills all in all."
The mystery of how the church is the body of Christ is revealed in part in Ephesians 5:31-32. Because the church has been joined unto the Lord even as a man is joined unto his wife, the church is one flesh with Jesus even as a man is with his wife, bone of bone and flesh of flesh (Genesis 2:23).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Ephesians 1:23 - "Who is His body the fullness of Him that fills all in all."
The mystery of how the church is the body of Christ is revealed in part in Ephesians 5:31-32. Because the church has been joined unto the Lord even as a man is joined unto his wife, the church is one flesh with Jesus even as a man is with his wife, bone of bone and flesh of flesh (Genesis 2:23).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Daily Bread
Acts 10:4 - "And he stared at him in fear and said, What is it Lord? And he said, your prayer and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God."
These prayers and offerings of Cornelius were viewed as the ascent offering (whole burnt offering) and memorial portions of the Old Testament that were turned into smoke for a sweet-smelling aroma to the Lord (Leviticus 2:2,9,16; 5:12; 6:15). Paul also likens the offering in which the saints sow into the ministry as an ascent offering that the Lord receives as a sweet smelling aroma because it is holy and acceptable to Him (Philippians 4:18). The response of God's favor toward those who offer such offerings is underscored here. Because of the prayers and offerings that Cornelius gave continually he was chosen to be the first gentile to receive the riches of heaven, the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Acts 10:4 - "And he stared at him in fear and said, What is it Lord? And he said, your prayer and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God."
These prayers and offerings of Cornelius were viewed as the ascent offering (whole burnt offering) and memorial portions of the Old Testament that were turned into smoke for a sweet-smelling aroma to the Lord (Leviticus 2:2,9,16; 5:12; 6:15). Paul also likens the offering in which the saints sow into the ministry as an ascent offering that the Lord receives as a sweet smelling aroma because it is holy and acceptable to Him (Philippians 4:18). The response of God's favor toward those who offer such offerings is underscored here. Because of the prayers and offerings that Cornelius gave continually he was chosen to be the first gentile to receive the riches of heaven, the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Monday, August 14, 2006
Revised Daily Bread
Acts 17:31 - "Because He has set a day in which He is going to judge the inhabitants in righteousness by a Man whom He has appointed having provided everyone with faith by His resurrection from death."
There are three very important facts that are established here:
1- There is an appointed time for judgment.
2- Everyone will be judged by God's standard of righteousness.
3- Jesus is the Man that has been appointed by God to be the Judge. This judgment refers to the judgment seat of Christ and also the Great White Throne of judgment. The Judgment Seat of Christ will take place before the one-thousand-year reign of Christ, and at that time all of God's saints will be judged. Paul states emphatically that we must all stand before the judgment seat of Christ to give an account for the deeds done in our body whether they are good or bad (2 Corinthians 5:10; Romans 2:16; 2 Timothy 4:1). Jesus said that all judgment was given to Him in heaven and in earth, and it would be by the word which He spoke that every man would be judged. We may then understand that the measure of righteousness which God will use is described in His word (John 12:48). Jesus also gave us an understanding of God's expectation for our lives when He demanded that we overcome as He overcame. In fact, in His address to the seven churches of Revelation chapters 2 and 3, He makes the standard of righteousness very clear. God's expectation is that we walk in His righteousness and purity; otherwise, our names will be blotted out of the Lamb's book of life. The manner of Jesus' life and conduct is the standard of righteousness, and we are to follow in His example (1 Peter 2: 21-24). John said, "Let no one deceive you; he that does righteousness is righteous even as He (Jesus) is righteous" (1 John 3:7; 2:29). God's judgment is not subjective; He has plainly made known His will to all men and has provided us with the ability to fulfill His will. We should all take heed to the warning that Jesus gave when He said, "Not everyone that says 'Lord, Lord' will enter in but they that do the will of my Father." There can be no doubt concerning the will of the Father; for He has made it painfully clear (Matthew 7:21-27; 1 John 2:15-17).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Acts 17:31 - "Because He has set a day in which He is going to judge the inhabitants in righteousness by a Man whom He has appointed having provided everyone with faith by His resurrection from death."
There are three very important facts that are established here:
1- There is an appointed time for judgment.
2- Everyone will be judged by God's standard of righteousness.
3- Jesus is the Man that has been appointed by God to be the Judge. This judgment refers to the judgment seat of Christ and also the Great White Throne of judgment. The Judgment Seat of Christ will take place before the one-thousand-year reign of Christ, and at that time all of God's saints will be judged. Paul states emphatically that we must all stand before the judgment seat of Christ to give an account for the deeds done in our body whether they are good or bad (2 Corinthians 5:10; Romans 2:16; 2 Timothy 4:1). Jesus said that all judgment was given to Him in heaven and in earth, and it would be by the word which He spoke that every man would be judged. We may then understand that the measure of righteousness which God will use is described in His word (John 12:48). Jesus also gave us an understanding of God's expectation for our lives when He demanded that we overcome as He overcame. In fact, in His address to the seven churches of Revelation chapters 2 and 3, He makes the standard of righteousness very clear. God's expectation is that we walk in His righteousness and purity; otherwise, our names will be blotted out of the Lamb's book of life. The manner of Jesus' life and conduct is the standard of righteousness, and we are to follow in His example (1 Peter 2: 21-24). John said, "Let no one deceive you; he that does righteousness is righteous even as He (Jesus) is righteous" (1 John 3:7; 2:29). God's judgment is not subjective; He has plainly made known His will to all men and has provided us with the ability to fulfill His will. We should all take heed to the warning that Jesus gave when He said, "Not everyone that says 'Lord, Lord' will enter in but they that do the will of my Father." There can be no doubt concerning the will of the Father; for He has made it painfully clear (Matthew 7:21-27; 1 John 2:15-17).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Saturday, August 12, 2006
Daily Bread
Acts 2: 26 - "Therefore, did my heart rejoice and my tongue rejoiced greatly; moreover also my flesh shall rest in expectation".
In the Hebrew Text of the Old Testament the word used for "tongue" is 'kavod' which means "glory." Yet in the Septuagint 'kavod' is translated by the word 'glossa' which means "tongue." Peter's declaration leads us to believe that the usage of tongue for glory purposefully brings to the front the utterance of the Spirit that was poured out through the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. Certainly the Baptism of the Holy Spirit and fire is the manifestation of the glory of God and, therefore, the divine utterances are a manifestation of the glory of God. If fact, the manifestation of tongues is a proclamation of the glory and true riches of God that we have received from Him. This may also reveal that those who translated the Septuagint understood that divine utterance is the result of the glory of God being poured out upon both the Messiah and His people.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Acts 2: 26 - "Therefore, did my heart rejoice and my tongue rejoiced greatly; moreover also my flesh shall rest in expectation".
In the Hebrew Text of the Old Testament the word used for "tongue" is 'kavod' which means "glory." Yet in the Septuagint 'kavod' is translated by the word 'glossa' which means "tongue." Peter's declaration leads us to believe that the usage of tongue for glory purposefully brings to the front the utterance of the Spirit that was poured out through the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. Certainly the Baptism of the Holy Spirit and fire is the manifestation of the glory of God and, therefore, the divine utterances are a manifestation of the glory of God. If fact, the manifestation of tongues is a proclamation of the glory and true riches of God that we have received from Him. This may also reveal that those who translated the Septuagint understood that divine utterance is the result of the glory of God being poured out upon both the Messiah and His people.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Friday, August 11, 2006
Daily Bread
Genesis 3:15 - "And I place enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her seed; He shall crush your head, and you shall crush His Heel."
The same Hebrew word is used in this verse to describe both the crushing of the serpent's head and the crushing of the heel of the woman's seed. The concept of the "seed of the woman" is the key to understanding this verse. Normally when the Bible refers to subsequent generations of man it is in terms of the seed of man. In that such a phrase is never again used in the Bible, we must realize that it has a special meaning. The only bridge that we have to understand this verse is that the Savior was born of a woman without the help of man. There is an event described in Revelation chapter 12 that uses the same concept of the seed of a woman (Revelation 12:17). We discover that the dragon, who is Satan, makes war with the remnant of the woman's seed. We may argue for the terminology of seed being applied to Jesus Christ our Savior and the Messiah many times, but we are certain from the writings of Paul that it is definitely applied twice (Galatians 3:16,19). Satan is called a serpent four times (Revelation 12:9,14,15; 20:2). Paul uses this allegory with respect to the church and Satan in Romans 16:20 - which is further proof that he understood this passage to relate to the authority of Christ Jesus in His conflict against Satan, the enemy of man, "And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly." Jesus also used a similar allegory concerning the authority of the believer when he said, "Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you" (Luke 10:19). We know that Jesus destroyed Satan when He died at Calvary and that the death of Jesus was only temporary, lasting for three days.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Genesis 3:15 - "And I place enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her seed; He shall crush your head, and you shall crush His Heel."
The same Hebrew word is used in this verse to describe both the crushing of the serpent's head and the crushing of the heel of the woman's seed. The concept of the "seed of the woman" is the key to understanding this verse. Normally when the Bible refers to subsequent generations of man it is in terms of the seed of man. In that such a phrase is never again used in the Bible, we must realize that it has a special meaning. The only bridge that we have to understand this verse is that the Savior was born of a woman without the help of man. There is an event described in Revelation chapter 12 that uses the same concept of the seed of a woman (Revelation 12:17). We discover that the dragon, who is Satan, makes war with the remnant of the woman's seed. We may argue for the terminology of seed being applied to Jesus Christ our Savior and the Messiah many times, but we are certain from the writings of Paul that it is definitely applied twice (Galatians 3:16,19). Satan is called a serpent four times (Revelation 12:9,14,15; 20:2). Paul uses this allegory with respect to the church and Satan in Romans 16:20 - which is further proof that he understood this passage to relate to the authority of Christ Jesus in His conflict against Satan, the enemy of man, "And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly." Jesus also used a similar allegory concerning the authority of the believer when he said, "Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you" (Luke 10:19). We know that Jesus destroyed Satan when He died at Calvary and that the death of Jesus was only temporary, lasting for three days.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Daily Bread
John 1:45 - "Philip found Nathaniel and said to him, We have found the one who Moses wrote about in the law and in the prophets, Jesus the son of Joseph who is from Nazareth."
The message of the coming Redeemer and the Messiah is found from Genesis to Malachi. The redeemer is first promised in Genesis 3:15 as the "Seed of the woman that will crush the head of the serpent" and in Malachi as the "Messenger of the Covenant who will suddenly come to His temple" (Malachi 3:1). It was Jesus Christ, the Redeemer, who was being revealed in every sacrifice and offering. It was through Jesus Christ, the Messiah, upon whom every promise and blessing would be established and fulfilled to Israel and all of mankind.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.0rg
John 1:45 - "Philip found Nathaniel and said to him, We have found the one who Moses wrote about in the law and in the prophets, Jesus the son of Joseph who is from Nazareth."
The message of the coming Redeemer and the Messiah is found from Genesis to Malachi. The redeemer is first promised in Genesis 3:15 as the "Seed of the woman that will crush the head of the serpent" and in Malachi as the "Messenger of the Covenant who will suddenly come to His temple" (Malachi 3:1). It was Jesus Christ, the Redeemer, who was being revealed in every sacrifice and offering. It was through Jesus Christ, the Messiah, upon whom every promise and blessing would be established and fulfilled to Israel and all of mankind.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.0rg
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Daily Bread
1 John 5:6 - "This is the one who came through water and blood, Jesus the Christ. Not with the water only but with the water and with the blood and the Spirit is the witness because the Spirit is the truth."
Of the three witnesses that are in the earth the water, the blood, and the Spirit, the water is the one most associated with the word of God. Although all three of these are very clearly identified as the agents by which we are both consecrated and begotten of God, the water is revealed to be that which flows out of the believer as rivers. These rivers of living water that pour out of the believer are the expressions of divine empowerment which enable us to be the witnesses of the gospel of Jesus Christ. In the Gospel of John, water is identified with the Spirit as essential to being begotten of God (John 3:5). It is again identified with eternal life springing out of those who drink of this spiritual water (John 4:11). In John 7:37-38, water is once again applied to the gift of eternal life and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Additionally, from a purely traditional Jewish perspective the drawing of the water on the last day of the Feast of Tabernacles symbolized the appearing of the Holy Spirit. Probably the easiest argument to make for the meaning of the "water" in the Gospel of John is that it represents the activity of the Holy Spirit flowing through the life of the believer. When Jesus ministered He only spoke the words that the Father gave Him to speak, and, therefore, these words could be viewed as the rivers of living water flowing out of His belly much the same as the 120 on the day of Pentecost. In fact, the argument can be made that every expression and attribute of God witnessed in the life of God's people is an expression of this living water. The water that Jesus desired to give to the woman at the well was simply received through the testimony of His words. The wellspring on the inside of this woman resulted in "many of the Samaritans out of that city believed on Him because of the woman testifying..." (John 4:39). The only other application of water is in baptism. John the Baptist compared water baptism to the baptism in the Holy Spirit, a baptism that produces an expression of the heavenly language and more (Luke 3:16, Acts 1:5, Acts 2:4). Paul takes up the message of baptism in association with the immersion into the life and identity of Christ, Rom 6:3-4, 1Cor. 12:13, Gal. 3:27, Co. 2:12. Finally, the water is symbolized as the Word of God (Eph. 5:26, Isaiah 55:10-11, Deut. 32:2). Furthermore, it is the Word of God that is declared to be the active agent of God by which men are saved and matured in Christ (Acts 20:32, Rom. 10:8, Col. 3:16, 1Th. 2:13, Titus 1:3, Heb 4:2,12, Heb 6:4, James 1:21, 1Peter 1:23, 1 John 2:14). Therefore, we conclude that the water symbolizes the word and the life of God which comes forth by the indwelling Holy Spirit.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 John 5:6 - "This is the one who came through water and blood, Jesus the Christ. Not with the water only but with the water and with the blood and the Spirit is the witness because the Spirit is the truth."
Of the three witnesses that are in the earth the water, the blood, and the Spirit, the water is the one most associated with the word of God. Although all three of these are very clearly identified as the agents by which we are both consecrated and begotten of God, the water is revealed to be that which flows out of the believer as rivers. These rivers of living water that pour out of the believer are the expressions of divine empowerment which enable us to be the witnesses of the gospel of Jesus Christ. In the Gospel of John, water is identified with the Spirit as essential to being begotten of God (John 3:5). It is again identified with eternal life springing out of those who drink of this spiritual water (John 4:11). In John 7:37-38, water is once again applied to the gift of eternal life and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Additionally, from a purely traditional Jewish perspective the drawing of the water on the last day of the Feast of Tabernacles symbolized the appearing of the Holy Spirit. Probably the easiest argument to make for the meaning of the "water" in the Gospel of John is that it represents the activity of the Holy Spirit flowing through the life of the believer. When Jesus ministered He only spoke the words that the Father gave Him to speak, and, therefore, these words could be viewed as the rivers of living water flowing out of His belly much the same as the 120 on the day of Pentecost. In fact, the argument can be made that every expression and attribute of God witnessed in the life of God's people is an expression of this living water. The water that Jesus desired to give to the woman at the well was simply received through the testimony of His words. The wellspring on the inside of this woman resulted in "many of the Samaritans out of that city believed on Him because of the woman testifying..." (John 4:39). The only other application of water is in baptism. John the Baptist compared water baptism to the baptism in the Holy Spirit, a baptism that produces an expression of the heavenly language and more (Luke 3:16, Acts 1:5, Acts 2:4). Paul takes up the message of baptism in association with the immersion into the life and identity of Christ, Rom 6:3-4, 1Cor. 12:13, Gal. 3:27, Co. 2:12. Finally, the water is symbolized as the Word of God (Eph. 5:26, Isaiah 55:10-11, Deut. 32:2). Furthermore, it is the Word of God that is declared to be the active agent of God by which men are saved and matured in Christ (Acts 20:32, Rom. 10:8, Col. 3:16, 1Th. 2:13, Titus 1:3, Heb 4:2,12, Heb 6:4, James 1:21, 1Peter 1:23, 1 John 2:14). Therefore, we conclude that the water symbolizes the word and the life of God which comes forth by the indwelling Holy Spirit.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Daily Bread
1 John 4:11 - "Beloved if God so loved us we ought to love one another."
This verse of scripture in John's First Epistle defines for us the true meaning of love. The kind of love that we are to have one for another is the love that was expressed in Jesus Christ when He gave His life for us so that we might live. God has empowered us to walk in His love which is the expression of His own nature. There is no justifiable reason to ever stop loving the people of God, even to the point of laying our lives down for them. Such love takes us far beyond the possibility of unforgivingness or hatred towards one another.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 John 4:11 - "Beloved if God so loved us we ought to love one another."
This verse of scripture in John's First Epistle defines for us the true meaning of love. The kind of love that we are to have one for another is the love that was expressed in Jesus Christ when He gave His life for us so that we might live. God has empowered us to walk in His love which is the expression of His own nature. There is no justifiable reason to ever stop loving the people of God, even to the point of laying our lives down for them. Such love takes us far beyond the possibility of unforgivingness or hatred towards one another.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Monday, August 07, 2006
Daily Bread
Revelation 1:12 - "And I turned to see the voice, which spoke with me, and having turned I saw seven golden menorahs."
The Greek word 'luchnia' is first found in the Septuagint in Exodus 25:31; it translates the Hebrew word 'menorah'. God instructed Moses to make a seven-branched Menorah, which was to be placed in the Tabernacle (Exodus 25:31-37). The Tabernacle on earth was a figure and representation of the Heavenly one which John saw in this vision. A new dimension of meaning was given to the lamps, the churches are the light of the world as Jesus said "a city set upon a hill that cannot be hide" (Matthew 5:14-16). The prophet Zachariah saw a similar vision in Zachariah 4:2. The seven-branched Menorah is associated with the Spirit and with the eyes of Yahoah (4:6,10). They are now represented with the seven churches, which are God's means of communicating His will and revealing His Spirit and Light to the world. When John turned to see Jesus he first encountered His church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all things and His representative on the earth.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Revelation 1:12 - "And I turned to see the voice, which spoke with me, and having turned I saw seven golden menorahs."
The Greek word 'luchnia' is first found in the Septuagint in Exodus 25:31; it translates the Hebrew word 'menorah'. God instructed Moses to make a seven-branched Menorah, which was to be placed in the Tabernacle (Exodus 25:31-37). The Tabernacle on earth was a figure and representation of the Heavenly one which John saw in this vision. A new dimension of meaning was given to the lamps, the churches are the light of the world as Jesus said "a city set upon a hill that cannot be hide" (Matthew 5:14-16). The prophet Zachariah saw a similar vision in Zachariah 4:2. The seven-branched Menorah is associated with the Spirit and with the eyes of Yahoah (4:6,10). They are now represented with the seven churches, which are God's means of communicating His will and revealing His Spirit and Light to the world. When John turned to see Jesus he first encountered His church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all things and His representative on the earth.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Daily Bread
Ephesians 1:19 - "And what is the exceeding greatness of His power to us who believe, according to the working power of His mighty power."
Our wonderful Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has really loaded us up with all of the divine power and ability that we will ever need for anything that we will ever face. The biggest challenge is on our part to believe Him and look to Him for help in time of need. If we are willing to look to Him for help then He will supply all of our needs according to His riches in glory. There are four 'power' words in this one verse of scripture: 1- dunamis; 2- energia; 3- kratos; 4- ischus. The Greek word 'dunamis' is defined by the virtue that went out of Jesus to heal the woman with the issue of blood and the power that the church would receive once the Holy Spirit came upon them. It has been said that 'dunamis' is the ability to accomplish the promise. 'Energeia' is brute or muscular power or working efficiency, by application "supernatural strength" (Philippians 3:21, Colossians 1:29). 'Kratos' is the power to overcome obstacles, have dominion or controlling, ruling power. And 'ischus' is the potential power, the power that will come to bear when needed (1 Peter 4:11). The word 'ischus' is first used in Genesis 4:12, "When you till the ground it will not yield her strength to you." This use of four synonyms for power in one verse is similar to Ephesians 6:10, which commands the saints to be 'endunamoo' (strong) in the Lord and in the 'kratos' of His 'ischus'. The Almighty wants us to have a strong assurance of the faith to know for certain that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. Father so wanted Abraham to be certain of the promise that He swore and oath to him; and in order to make us certain Jesus sent the promise of the Father to both endue us and seal us with His Spirit (Luke 24:49; Hebrews 6:13-19; Hebrews 10: 22-23).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Ephesians 1:19 - "And what is the exceeding greatness of His power to us who believe, according to the working power of His mighty power."
Our wonderful Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has really loaded us up with all of the divine power and ability that we will ever need for anything that we will ever face. The biggest challenge is on our part to believe Him and look to Him for help in time of need. If we are willing to look to Him for help then He will supply all of our needs according to His riches in glory. There are four 'power' words in this one verse of scripture: 1- dunamis; 2- energia; 3- kratos; 4- ischus. The Greek word 'dunamis' is defined by the virtue that went out of Jesus to heal the woman with the issue of blood and the power that the church would receive once the Holy Spirit came upon them. It has been said that 'dunamis' is the ability to accomplish the promise. 'Energeia' is brute or muscular power or working efficiency, by application "supernatural strength" (Philippians 3:21, Colossians 1:29). 'Kratos' is the power to overcome obstacles, have dominion or controlling, ruling power. And 'ischus' is the potential power, the power that will come to bear when needed (1 Peter 4:11). The word 'ischus' is first used in Genesis 4:12, "When you till the ground it will not yield her strength to you." This use of four synonyms for power in one verse is similar to Ephesians 6:10, which commands the saints to be 'endunamoo' (strong) in the Lord and in the 'kratos' of His 'ischus'. The Almighty wants us to have a strong assurance of the faith to know for certain that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. Father so wanted Abraham to be certain of the promise that He swore and oath to him; and in order to make us certain Jesus sent the promise of the Father to both endue us and seal us with His Spirit (Luke 24:49; Hebrews 6:13-19; Hebrews 10: 22-23).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Friday, August 04, 2006
Daily Bread
1 John 2:4 - "The one who says, I know Him but does not keep His commandments is a liar and the truth is not in him."
Jesus spoke a number of different times about the commandment that He received of the Father to lay down His life (John 10:18; 12:49, 50; 14:31; 15:10). Jesus also gave commandments to his disciples. These commandments were directed at their love one for another (John 13:34; 15:12; 14:15,21; 15:10; 1 John 2:7-8; 3:23; 4:21; 2 John 5-6). In fact, when we understand that God's commandments are focused on our loving one another and that this love is divine love then we also realize that such a love is only possible by yielding to the operation of the Holy Spirit. The key to walking in all the ways of God is to be ruled by divine love. The only way to be governed by divine love is to allow the Holy Spirit to rule our life and be our inspiration at every turn of our behavior. The love of God is the fulfillment of the whole Law because it works no wrong against anyone (Romans 13:10;8:4). To walk in love is to walk in the Light, which is the glory of God being revealed in His people (2 Peter 1:3-5). The commandments of Jesus are not a set of rules but rather this is God's commandment to a whole new way of life. The New Testament believer is called to a realm that goes far beyond the 10 commandments of the Old Testament. Through the divine nature that was given to us when we were born of God we are empowered to walk in all the ways of God, which are made know to us by His word (Romans 8:4). One may correctly view 'logos' (word) as interchangeable with 'entole' (commandment) in both the Old and New Testament (John 8:51; 8:55; 14:23, 24; 15:20; 1 John 2:5). The technical name for the Ten Commandments is "The Decalogue" which means "The Ten Words" (Exodus 20:1; 34:28; Deuteronomy 4:13; 10:4). In Deuteronomy for example the passage refers to the whole of the Law code as "all the words of this Law", translated by the Septuagint as "all these commandments". Also, to further drive home this point the opening statement of the following verse serves to further equate commandment with word, "But whoever keeps his words". Thus the commandments that Jesus refers to may be understood as all the Word of God.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 John 2:4 - "The one who says, I know Him but does not keep His commandments is a liar and the truth is not in him."
Jesus spoke a number of different times about the commandment that He received of the Father to lay down His life (John 10:18; 12:49, 50; 14:31; 15:10). Jesus also gave commandments to his disciples. These commandments were directed at their love one for another (John 13:34; 15:12; 14:15,21; 15:10; 1 John 2:7-8; 3:23; 4:21; 2 John 5-6). In fact, when we understand that God's commandments are focused on our loving one another and that this love is divine love then we also realize that such a love is only possible by yielding to the operation of the Holy Spirit. The key to walking in all the ways of God is to be ruled by divine love. The only way to be governed by divine love is to allow the Holy Spirit to rule our life and be our inspiration at every turn of our behavior. The love of God is the fulfillment of the whole Law because it works no wrong against anyone (Romans 13:10;8:4). To walk in love is to walk in the Light, which is the glory of God being revealed in His people (2 Peter 1:3-5). The commandments of Jesus are not a set of rules but rather this is God's commandment to a whole new way of life. The New Testament believer is called to a realm that goes far beyond the 10 commandments of the Old Testament. Through the divine nature that was given to us when we were born of God we are empowered to walk in all the ways of God, which are made know to us by His word (Romans 8:4). One may correctly view 'logos' (word) as interchangeable with 'entole' (commandment) in both the Old and New Testament (John 8:51; 8:55; 14:23, 24; 15:20; 1 John 2:5). The technical name for the Ten Commandments is "The Decalogue" which means "The Ten Words" (Exodus 20:1; 34:28; Deuteronomy 4:13; 10:4). In Deuteronomy for example the passage refers to the whole of the Law code as "all the words of this Law", translated by the Septuagint as "all these commandments". Also, to further drive home this point the opening statement of the following verse serves to further equate commandment with word, "But whoever keeps his words". Thus the commandments that Jesus refers to may be understood as all the Word of God.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Daily Bread
1 John 2:5 - "But whoever keeps His word truly in him is the love of God perfected. This is how we know that we are in Him."
The word 'agape,' 'love,' is defined by its New Testament application as divine love or the love that God loves with, thus, "the love of God." The usage of 'agape' in classic Greek is rare. When it is found it is neither dramatic nor colorful. It was usually translated, "to like, prefer, be content." However, when it appears in the New Testament Greek it defines the kind of Love that the Father has for the Son and the kind of Love that the Christian has since the Paraclete has come to dwell in them, John 13:34; 14:15; 14:21; 14:31; 15:10; 15:12; 15:17; 17:23. This kind of love does not have a human origin but is purely divine flowing into and out of us by the presence of the Holy Spirit. Raymond Brown writes "Agape is not a love originating in the human heart and reaching out to possess noble goods needed for perfection; it is spontaneous, unmerited, creative love flowing from God to the Christian, and from the Christian to a fellow Christian." (The Epistles of John, pages 254-255) The Hebrew word for love is 'ahav' and is translated in the Septuagint exclusively by 'agapan.' Jeremiah writes, that love comes through a circumcised heart, Jeremiah 31:33. Proverbs says that God loves us as a Father loves his son, Proverbs 3:12. Perhaps the closest example to the New Testament usage of 'agape' is found in the Hebrew 'chesed' in Exodus 34:6. The Hebrew word 'chesed' means 'covenant love' or loyal unfailing love.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
1 John 2:5 - "But whoever keeps His word truly in him is the love of God perfected. This is how we know that we are in Him."
The word 'agape,' 'love,' is defined by its New Testament application as divine love or the love that God loves with, thus, "the love of God." The usage of 'agape' in classic Greek is rare. When it is found it is neither dramatic nor colorful. It was usually translated, "to like, prefer, be content." However, when it appears in the New Testament Greek it defines the kind of Love that the Father has for the Son and the kind of Love that the Christian has since the Paraclete has come to dwell in them, John 13:34; 14:15; 14:21; 14:31; 15:10; 15:12; 15:17; 17:23. This kind of love does not have a human origin but is purely divine flowing into and out of us by the presence of the Holy Spirit. Raymond Brown writes "Agape is not a love originating in the human heart and reaching out to possess noble goods needed for perfection; it is spontaneous, unmerited, creative love flowing from God to the Christian, and from the Christian to a fellow Christian." (The Epistles of John, pages 254-255) The Hebrew word for love is 'ahav' and is translated in the Septuagint exclusively by 'agapan.' Jeremiah writes, that love comes through a circumcised heart, Jeremiah 31:33. Proverbs says that God loves us as a Father loves his son, Proverbs 3:12. Perhaps the closest example to the New Testament usage of 'agape' is found in the Hebrew 'chesed' in Exodus 34:6. The Hebrew word 'chesed' means 'covenant love' or loyal unfailing love.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Daily Bread
Colossians 1:9 - "Because of this also from the day we heard ceased not to pray for you also asking that you might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding."
The knowledge of God's will is something that an individual is filled with just as a person is filled with the Spirit. The knowledge of God does not come to man through his own works and efforts. It is not attained through natural means of intellect and reason but rather by the gift of God. The knowledge of God's will gives wisdom and revelation and spiritual understanding (Ephesians 1:17). Paul prayed that the Ephesians would have this spiritual knowledge so that their spiritual eyes would be opened to know: 1- The confidence of the calling.2- The riches of the glory.3- The greatness of His power according to the working of His mighty power.Spiritual understanding is that which eyes have never seen nor ears have ever heard nor hearts have ever understood but is revealed by the Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:9-10). Spiritual understanding is the way that God thinks about things, it is the "mind of Christ" and the "mind of the Spirit" (Romans 8:27; Philippians 2:5).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Colossians 1:9 - "Because of this also from the day we heard ceased not to pray for you also asking that you might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding."
The knowledge of God's will is something that an individual is filled with just as a person is filled with the Spirit. The knowledge of God does not come to man through his own works and efforts. It is not attained through natural means of intellect and reason but rather by the gift of God. The knowledge of God's will gives wisdom and revelation and spiritual understanding (Ephesians 1:17). Paul prayed that the Ephesians would have this spiritual knowledge so that their spiritual eyes would be opened to know: 1- The confidence of the calling.2- The riches of the glory.3- The greatness of His power according to the working of His mighty power.Spiritual understanding is that which eyes have never seen nor ears have ever heard nor hearts have ever understood but is revealed by the Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:9-10). Spiritual understanding is the way that God thinks about things, it is the "mind of Christ" and the "mind of the Spirit" (Romans 8:27; Philippians 2:5).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Monday, July 31, 2006
Daily Bread
Colossians 1:13 - "Who has delivered us from the authority of darkness and translated us to the Kingdom of His beloved Son."
The whole notion and concept of redemption is revealed to us in the deliverance of Israel from Egypt. As certain as Israel was delivered from the rule and authority of Pharaoh, we have been delivered form the rule and authority of Satan. Concerning the absolute defeat of Satan and his power over us Jesus said, "Now is the judgment of this world, now shall the prince of this world be cast out" (John 12:31). Paul spoke with such finality in 2 Timothy 1:10 when he said that Jesus had "abolished death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel." The death of Jesus on the cross was the means by which Satan's power was destroyed, "through death He destroyed him that had the power of death that is the devil" (Hebrews 2:14).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Colossians 1:13 - "Who has delivered us from the authority of darkness and translated us to the Kingdom of His beloved Son."
The whole notion and concept of redemption is revealed to us in the deliverance of Israel from Egypt. As certain as Israel was delivered from the rule and authority of Pharaoh, we have been delivered form the rule and authority of Satan. Concerning the absolute defeat of Satan and his power over us Jesus said, "Now is the judgment of this world, now shall the prince of this world be cast out" (John 12:31). Paul spoke with such finality in 2 Timothy 1:10 when he said that Jesus had "abolished death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel." The death of Jesus on the cross was the means by which Satan's power was destroyed, "through death He destroyed him that had the power of death that is the devil" (Hebrews 2:14).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Daily Bread
1 John 2 17 - "They went out from us but they were not of us. If they had been of us they would have remained with us. Nevertheless it is revealed that none of them are of us."
Betrayal and broken communion were evidence enough of the spiritual state of these people. One of the primary themes of the first Epistle of John is the love of the brethren and the communion that results. Those who refused to remain in fellowship with the apostles and their company were not in the Light (1 John 1:7), and were revealed to be of the devil. The fellowship that we have with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is equated to the fellowship that we have with those who are begotten of God. If an individual does not have fellowship with God then he cannot have fellowship with those who are begotten of God and conversely if there is no fellowship with the brethren there is no fellowship with God. The epistle of 1 John provides the proofs of fellowship to distinguish between those who are of God and those who are deceivers. Beloved let us love one another.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 John 2 17 - "They went out from us but they were not of us. If they had been of us they would have remained with us. Nevertheless it is revealed that none of them are of us."
Betrayal and broken communion were evidence enough of the spiritual state of these people. One of the primary themes of the first Epistle of John is the love of the brethren and the communion that results. Those who refused to remain in fellowship with the apostles and their company were not in the Light (1 John 1:7), and were revealed to be of the devil. The fellowship that we have with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is equated to the fellowship that we have with those who are begotten of God. If an individual does not have fellowship with God then he cannot have fellowship with those who are begotten of God and conversely if there is no fellowship with the brethren there is no fellowship with God. The epistle of 1 John provides the proofs of fellowship to distinguish between those who are of God and those who are deceivers. Beloved let us love one another.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Friday, July 28, 2006
Daily Bread
2 Peter 2:1 - "Now there were also false prophets among the people just as also false teachers shall be among you who shall sneak in destructive opinions also denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction."
In order to grasp the identity of these false teachers that will be among us we must understand the false prophets that they are compared to. The Greek word 'pseudoprophetai' is found 10 times in the Septuagint. Although there is no actual Hebrew word conveying the meaning of "false prophet" it is implied by the context. Of the 10 times that 'pseudoprophetai' is found in the Septuagint it occurs 9 times in Jeremiah. It is in this context then that we can further understand the impact of false prophets and the impact that they can have. Unfortunately, we discover that the false prophets were accepted while Jeremiah was rejected. The popular opinion of the people refused to accept that they were wrong and needed to repent and conform to the sanctity of and obedience to God's word. The issue of God's controversy against His people has always been over purity and obedience rather than minor issues or details associated with style and ritual. Jesus warned us to beware of false prophets that look like sheep but are actually wolves (Matthew 7:15). Jesus also identifies these false prophets as those who His rebellious people spoke well of warning His disciples to beware of such expectations (Luke 6:26). Jesus credits these false prophets with the ability to do great signs and wonders thereby increasing their ability to deceive (Matthew 24:24; Mark 13:22). John associates false prophets with the antichrist power that was already at work among the churches in his day (1 John 4:1). Although the Greek word for false teacher is only found here, Paul describes false teachers in his Epistles to Timothy. The description of false teachers is as follows: 1- They do not consent to the sound word of God. 2- They do not consent to the doctrines of godliness. 3- They create strife, envy, evil speaking, and suspicion of others. 4- They suppose gain to be godliness (1 Timothy 6:3-5; 2 Timothy 3:6-7; Titus 1:11).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
2 Peter 2:1 - "Now there were also false prophets among the people just as also false teachers shall be among you who shall sneak in destructive opinions also denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction."
In order to grasp the identity of these false teachers that will be among us we must understand the false prophets that they are compared to. The Greek word 'pseudoprophetai' is found 10 times in the Septuagint. Although there is no actual Hebrew word conveying the meaning of "false prophet" it is implied by the context. Of the 10 times that 'pseudoprophetai' is found in the Septuagint it occurs 9 times in Jeremiah. It is in this context then that we can further understand the impact of false prophets and the impact that they can have. Unfortunately, we discover that the false prophets were accepted while Jeremiah was rejected. The popular opinion of the people refused to accept that they were wrong and needed to repent and conform to the sanctity of and obedience to God's word. The issue of God's controversy against His people has always been over purity and obedience rather than minor issues or details associated with style and ritual. Jesus warned us to beware of false prophets that look like sheep but are actually wolves (Matthew 7:15). Jesus also identifies these false prophets as those who His rebellious people spoke well of warning His disciples to beware of such expectations (Luke 6:26). Jesus credits these false prophets with the ability to do great signs and wonders thereby increasing their ability to deceive (Matthew 24:24; Mark 13:22). John associates false prophets with the antichrist power that was already at work among the churches in his day (1 John 4:1). Although the Greek word for false teacher is only found here, Paul describes false teachers in his Epistles to Timothy. The description of false teachers is as follows: 1- They do not consent to the sound word of God. 2- They do not consent to the doctrines of godliness. 3- They create strife, envy, evil speaking, and suspicion of others. 4- They suppose gain to be godliness (1 Timothy 6:3-5; 2 Timothy 3:6-7; Titus 1:11).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Daily Bread
2 Peter 2:1 - "Now there were also false prophets among the people just as also false teachers shall be among you who shall sneak in destructive opinions also denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction."
The Greek word that is used here (translated 'sneak') is very descriptive of how destructive heresies find their way into the community of the church; they come along side of true doctrines and less harmful opinions. Although there may be opinions about the scripture that are not destructive, one falsehood is the foundation on which more destructive falsehoods are built. The word used here is a compound Greek word 'paraeisago' which literally means to "bring in along with" or to "lead in along with others". Thus we catch a glimpse of the way that false doctrines begin. These opinions are grouped along with Bible facts and become the subtleties by which wrong conclusions are derived and thus destructive opinions are precipitated.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
2 Peter 2:1 - "Now there were also false prophets among the people just as also false teachers shall be among you who shall sneak in destructive opinions also denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction."
The Greek word that is used here (translated 'sneak') is very descriptive of how destructive heresies find their way into the community of the church; they come along side of true doctrines and less harmful opinions. Although there may be opinions about the scripture that are not destructive, one falsehood is the foundation on which more destructive falsehoods are built. The word used here is a compound Greek word 'paraeisago' which literally means to "bring in along with" or to "lead in along with others". Thus we catch a glimpse of the way that false doctrines begin. These opinions are grouped along with Bible facts and become the subtleties by which wrong conclusions are derived and thus destructive opinions are precipitated.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Daily Bread
John 14:3 - "And if I go away and prepare a place for you I will come again and receive you to myself that where I am you may also be."
The Greek word translated "come again" is 'parousia.' This word is used elsewhere in association with the return of Jesus and thus became a theological word used to describe His return. The parousia of Christ Jesus took place in part when the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete, came. The Paraclete came to bring to us the abiding presence of Jesus and, in turn, we are seated with Jesus in the heavenlies (Ephesians 1:3). However, the bigger meaning is the return of Jesus which will result in our being with Him in heaven. The church will then return with Him to fight against the armies of the antichrist and Satan and afterward we will rule for 1000 years with Christ Jesus upon the earth (Revelation 19:14; 20:6; Jude 1:14).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
John 14:3 - "And if I go away and prepare a place for you I will come again and receive you to myself that where I am you may also be."
The Greek word translated "come again" is 'parousia.' This word is used elsewhere in association with the return of Jesus and thus became a theological word used to describe His return. The parousia of Christ Jesus took place in part when the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete, came. The Paraclete came to bring to us the abiding presence of Jesus and, in turn, we are seated with Jesus in the heavenlies (Ephesians 1:3). However, the bigger meaning is the return of Jesus which will result in our being with Him in heaven. The church will then return with Him to fight against the armies of the antichrist and Satan and afterward we will rule for 1000 years with Christ Jesus upon the earth (Revelation 19:14; 20:6; Jude 1:14).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Daily Bread
Acts 1:11 - "And they said, 'Men of Galilee why do you stand looking into the heavens this same Jesus who was taken up from you into heaven shall certainly come in the same way as you watched Him go into heaven.' "
The Greek 'theomai' denotes careful observation. The announcement given by these two angels about the 'parousia' or coming of Jesus should be given special attention. Perhaps the posture of watching or carefully observing His return is as important as how He will return. Paul reveals that Jesus will appear to those who look for Him in Hebrews 9:28, Philippians 3:20, and Titus 2:13. We also know that Jesus emphasized the importance of our watching for His return: "Remember then what you have received and heard and keep it and repent. However, if you do not watch I will come like a thief and you will not know at what hour I will come upon you" (Revelation 3:3; Matthew 24:42; 25:13; Mark 13:33-37; Luke 21:36). Let us all say: "even so come Lord Jesus" (Revelation 22:20).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Acts 1:11 - "And they said, 'Men of Galilee why do you stand looking into the heavens this same Jesus who was taken up from you into heaven shall certainly come in the same way as you watched Him go into heaven.' "
The Greek 'theomai' denotes careful observation. The announcement given by these two angels about the 'parousia' or coming of Jesus should be given special attention. Perhaps the posture of watching or carefully observing His return is as important as how He will return. Paul reveals that Jesus will appear to those who look for Him in Hebrews 9:28, Philippians 3:20, and Titus 2:13. We also know that Jesus emphasized the importance of our watching for His return: "Remember then what you have received and heard and keep it and repent. However, if you do not watch I will come like a thief and you will not know at what hour I will come upon you" (Revelation 3:3; Matthew 24:42; 25:13; Mark 13:33-37; Luke 21:36). Let us all say: "even so come Lord Jesus" (Revelation 22:20).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Monday, July 24, 2006
Daily Bread
Revelation 4:1 - "After these things I looked and saw a door open in heaven and the first voice like a trumpet which I heard spoke to me saying come up here and I will show you what must happen after these things."
The Greek phrase 'meta tauta,' after these things, signifies a shift in events. This phrase 'meta tauta' which on its own may be considered a chronological marker is definitely a chronological marker in Revelation. This chronological marker is emphasized in this verse by the fact that it both begins and ends this verse. In Revelation 1:19, God gave John the instructions of how he was to lay out the book of Revelation, "Write therefore what you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which are about to take place after these things". At this point, the events of the church have come to an end and the church will not be addressed again in the book of Revelation except in the final exhortation in 22:16. What John has seen up to this point concerning the churches he was able to view from an earthly position, but now God must call him up into heaven in order to show him the "things which shall be hereafter." The first time the Greek phrase 'meta tauta' is used in the book of Revelation is in 1:19 where it is identified as the marker for the last section of the book of Revelation. John wrote about the "things that he saw" in chapter 1, and the "things which are" in chapters 2 and 3, and finally, the "things which shall take place hereafter" beginning in chapter 4. The Greek phrase 'meta tauta' was first shown to be a chronological marker in John 3:22, designating the event that followed Jesus' visit to Jerusalem. It is also used as a chronological marker in John 5:1; 5:24; 6:1; 7:1; 13:7 and 21:1. The first time that 'meta tauta' is found in the New Testament is in Luke 5:27 where, once again, it serves as a chronological marker. If 'meta tauta' of Revelation 1:19 refers to the 'meta tauta' of 4:1, then the church must be removed before the tribulation of the book of Revelation begins. The first time that these catastrophic events of Revelation 4 through 19 are mentioned in the New Testament is in Matthew 24:15, Mark 13:14, and Luke 21:20 which refer to the events of Daniel 11:31; 12:11; Revelation 13:5 and 2 Thessalonians 2:4. Revelation chapter 4 begins the series of events that will take place over the course of seven years. The first in these series of events in Revelation focuses on the revealing of the Man of Lawlessness (2 Thessalonians 2:3 and Revelation 6:1). Now there is only one primary event that must take place before the revelation of the man of sin spoken by the prophet Daniel, the "one who now withholds" must come (2 Thessalonians 2:6-7). This verse may also imply the removal of something. There are only three powers that may be viewed as hindering lawlessness: Human Government, The Holy Spirit, and The Church. We know for certain that through Revelation 4 through 19 we see the working of both Human Government and the Holy Spirit. Human Government is represented as the nations warring against each other, the Ten Kings which are also represented by Daniel's vision as the Ten Toes of the Great image (Daniel 2:34, 44; Rev 16:12; 17:12; 18:9). These governmental powers will ultimately be destroyed when Jesus returns with His saints and fights against the kings of the earth who are led by the Man of Lawlessness or the Antichrist (Dan 2:34, 44; Rev 19:15). The Holy Spirit will still be present because there will be many who will turn to Jesus and there will be the working of miracles all of which are the function of the Holy Spirit. The only power that remains to be taken out of the way is the Church. In Luke 21:36 Jesus tells his disciples to pray that they may be worthy to escape all of the catastrophic events of Revelation 4 through 19 and stand before the Son of Man (Jesus). Of course we know where Jesus is standing before these disasters begin to take place; for this is primarily what chapters 4 and 5 are devoted to; He is in heaven (Rev 4:3; 5:9). The point of convergence for all of these passages of scripture is the revealing of the Man of Lawlessness, or the Antichrist, who will commit the abomination that makes the temple of God desolate by proclaiming himself to be God. We know that when Paul spoke of these final days of the church on earth it was revealed to him that not everyone would die because there would be an event for those who were alive which would cause them to be caught up into heaven (1 Corinthians 15:51; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17). There are no reasons to believe that this catching away takes place at any other juncture in the book of Revelation than here.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Revelation 4:1 - "After these things I looked and saw a door open in heaven and the first voice like a trumpet which I heard spoke to me saying come up here and I will show you what must happen after these things."
The Greek phrase 'meta tauta,' after these things, signifies a shift in events. This phrase 'meta tauta' which on its own may be considered a chronological marker is definitely a chronological marker in Revelation. This chronological marker is emphasized in this verse by the fact that it both begins and ends this verse. In Revelation 1:19, God gave John the instructions of how he was to lay out the book of Revelation, "Write therefore what you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which are about to take place after these things". At this point, the events of the church have come to an end and the church will not be addressed again in the book of Revelation except in the final exhortation in 22:16. What John has seen up to this point concerning the churches he was able to view from an earthly position, but now God must call him up into heaven in order to show him the "things which shall be hereafter." The first time the Greek phrase 'meta tauta' is used in the book of Revelation is in 1:19 where it is identified as the marker for the last section of the book of Revelation. John wrote about the "things that he saw" in chapter 1, and the "things which are" in chapters 2 and 3, and finally, the "things which shall take place hereafter" beginning in chapter 4. The Greek phrase 'meta tauta' was first shown to be a chronological marker in John 3:22, designating the event that followed Jesus' visit to Jerusalem. It is also used as a chronological marker in John 5:1; 5:24; 6:1; 7:1; 13:7 and 21:1. The first time that 'meta tauta' is found in the New Testament is in Luke 5:27 where, once again, it serves as a chronological marker. If 'meta tauta' of Revelation 1:19 refers to the 'meta tauta' of 4:1, then the church must be removed before the tribulation of the book of Revelation begins. The first time that these catastrophic events of Revelation 4 through 19 are mentioned in the New Testament is in Matthew 24:15, Mark 13:14, and Luke 21:20 which refer to the events of Daniel 11:31; 12:11; Revelation 13:5 and 2 Thessalonians 2:4. Revelation chapter 4 begins the series of events that will take place over the course of seven years. The first in these series of events in Revelation focuses on the revealing of the Man of Lawlessness (2 Thessalonians 2:3 and Revelation 6:1). Now there is only one primary event that must take place before the revelation of the man of sin spoken by the prophet Daniel, the "one who now withholds" must come (2 Thessalonians 2:6-7). This verse may also imply the removal of something. There are only three powers that may be viewed as hindering lawlessness: Human Government, The Holy Spirit, and The Church. We know for certain that through Revelation 4 through 19 we see the working of both Human Government and the Holy Spirit. Human Government is represented as the nations warring against each other, the Ten Kings which are also represented by Daniel's vision as the Ten Toes of the Great image (Daniel 2:34, 44; Rev 16:12; 17:12; 18:9). These governmental powers will ultimately be destroyed when Jesus returns with His saints and fights against the kings of the earth who are led by the Man of Lawlessness or the Antichrist (Dan 2:34, 44; Rev 19:15). The Holy Spirit will still be present because there will be many who will turn to Jesus and there will be the working of miracles all of which are the function of the Holy Spirit. The only power that remains to be taken out of the way is the Church. In Luke 21:36 Jesus tells his disciples to pray that they may be worthy to escape all of the catastrophic events of Revelation 4 through 19 and stand before the Son of Man (Jesus). Of course we know where Jesus is standing before these disasters begin to take place; for this is primarily what chapters 4 and 5 are devoted to; He is in heaven (Rev 4:3; 5:9). The point of convergence for all of these passages of scripture is the revealing of the Man of Lawlessness, or the Antichrist, who will commit the abomination that makes the temple of God desolate by proclaiming himself to be God. We know that when Paul spoke of these final days of the church on earth it was revealed to him that not everyone would die because there would be an event for those who were alive which would cause them to be caught up into heaven (1 Corinthians 15:51; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17). There are no reasons to believe that this catching away takes place at any other juncture in the book of Revelation than here.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Daily Bread
1 John 4:3 - "And every spirit that does not confess Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God and this is that antichrist, that you heard would come and now is already in the world."
The word 'antichrist' is found four times in the Bible and is a word that is only used by John in his Epistles (1 John 2:18, 22; 4:3; 2 John 7). Although John refers to a specific individual that will come, he views a more subtle manifestation of the deception which will then be fully manifested in the one whom Paul calls the man of sin and the son of destruction (2 Thessalonians 2:3). The deception begins subtly with slight variation about who Jesus is but ultimately ends in one who declares himself to be God in the middle of the Tribulation (Matthew 24:15; Daniel 11:31). The antichrist presents Himself as a savior and righteous, one as depicted in Revelation 6:2, but is ultimately revealed to be the one who subdues men to which war, famine, death, and hell will follow. Satan's power of deception will ultimately bring the nations to such a deception that they will gather themselves together to fight against Jesus Christ in the battle of Armageddon. It is little wonder then that men fight against the name of Jesus now.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 John 4:3 - "And every spirit that does not confess Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God and this is that antichrist, that you heard would come and now is already in the world."
The word 'antichrist' is found four times in the Bible and is a word that is only used by John in his Epistles (1 John 2:18, 22; 4:3; 2 John 7). Although John refers to a specific individual that will come, he views a more subtle manifestation of the deception which will then be fully manifested in the one whom Paul calls the man of sin and the son of destruction (2 Thessalonians 2:3). The deception begins subtly with slight variation about who Jesus is but ultimately ends in one who declares himself to be God in the middle of the Tribulation (Matthew 24:15; Daniel 11:31). The antichrist presents Himself as a savior and righteous, one as depicted in Revelation 6:2, but is ultimately revealed to be the one who subdues men to which war, famine, death, and hell will follow. Satan's power of deception will ultimately bring the nations to such a deception that they will gather themselves together to fight against Jesus Christ in the battle of Armageddon. It is little wonder then that men fight against the name of Jesus now.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Friday, July 21, 2006
Daily Bread
2 Thessalonians 2:6 - "And now you know what holds back the revealing of him in his time."
The antichrist cannot be revealed until the time of the administration of the church is complete. Jesus is the one that is now holding back the ultimate deception and rebellion of iniquity which cannot be revealed until He comes "The mystery of lawlessness is already at work only right now He holds it back from the midst until He comes. And at that time the lawless one shall be revealed whom the Lord shall destroy with the spirit of his mouth and wipe out with the appearance of His coming."(2:7-8). Jesus first comes to finalize the administration of the church age by receiving the church unto Himself, and then the lawless one shall be revealed. Jesus will then return with His saints to fight against the antichrist and his armies. Paul had already ministered to the church at Thessalonica concerning the coming of the Lord Jesus which we find in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17. Paul ministered concerning this event in light of the resurrection from the dead. The points that Paul makes is that when Jesus comes, the dead in Christ will rise first and those who are alive will be caught up together into the clouds to meet Jesus in the air. He describes the event as the time when Jesus comes with a shout and voice of an archangel and with God's trumpet. Paul also communicated this same event to the church at Corinth and once again spoke of it in context to the first resurrection or the resurrection of those who died in Christ. He also revealed once again that those who will be alive would be immediately changed from the corruptible and earthly into the immortal and heavenly. He spoke of it as a mystery but reveals the fact that it will happen at the last trumpet (1 Corinthians 15:51- 53). We know from the words of Jesus that it will be an event that He personally initiates as suggested by 1 Thessalonians 4:16. Jesus said, "with absolute certainty I tell you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live". When we look for this most important event in the book of Revelation it is only discovered in the words "after these things" which refers to the church (Revelation 1:19; 4:1). The first mention of the resurrection of the dead is not until Revelation 20:5. Daniel speaks of the time of the resurrection of the just even though it is mentioned in association with the time of the Tribulation it is also grouped with the resurrection of the unjust which we know to be separated by 1000 years (Daniel 12:2; Revelation 20:5). The only event in the book of Revelation that describes a catching away is found in Revelation 12:5, which speaks of a man child that was born to a woman clothed with the sun and the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars which is an Old Testament symbol for Israel (Genesis 37:9-10). The most appropriate understanding of this man child born of Israel is the 144,000 that is first mentioned as being sealed in Revelation 7:4 and then seen in heaven in Revelation 14:1 with the seal of the Father's name written in their forehead. When we examine the book of Revelation for the Trump of God or the last trump the only thing that can be found is in Revelation 10:7; 11:15-18. However, this does not concur with the fact that it is Jesus Himself who descends neither is there any mention of those who are alive in Christ being caught up. Jesus spoke of the time at the end of the Tribulation when he would send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet who will gather together His elect but by context this is associated with His return to the earth with His saints in Revelation 19:11-21. The reason that the events of 1 Thessalonians 4:16 and 1 Corinthians 15:51 are not found in the book of Revelation is because they occur before the Tribulation of Revelation 4-19.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
2 Thessalonians 2:6 - "And now you know what holds back the revealing of him in his time."
The antichrist cannot be revealed until the time of the administration of the church is complete. Jesus is the one that is now holding back the ultimate deception and rebellion of iniquity which cannot be revealed until He comes "The mystery of lawlessness is already at work only right now He holds it back from the midst until He comes. And at that time the lawless one shall be revealed whom the Lord shall destroy with the spirit of his mouth and wipe out with the appearance of His coming."(2:7-8). Jesus first comes to finalize the administration of the church age by receiving the church unto Himself, and then the lawless one shall be revealed. Jesus will then return with His saints to fight against the antichrist and his armies. Paul had already ministered to the church at Thessalonica concerning the coming of the Lord Jesus which we find in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17. Paul ministered concerning this event in light of the resurrection from the dead. The points that Paul makes is that when Jesus comes, the dead in Christ will rise first and those who are alive will be caught up together into the clouds to meet Jesus in the air. He describes the event as the time when Jesus comes with a shout and voice of an archangel and with God's trumpet. Paul also communicated this same event to the church at Corinth and once again spoke of it in context to the first resurrection or the resurrection of those who died in Christ. He also revealed once again that those who will be alive would be immediately changed from the corruptible and earthly into the immortal and heavenly. He spoke of it as a mystery but reveals the fact that it will happen at the last trumpet (1 Corinthians 15:51- 53). We know from the words of Jesus that it will be an event that He personally initiates as suggested by 1 Thessalonians 4:16. Jesus said, "with absolute certainty I tell you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live". When we look for this most important event in the book of Revelation it is only discovered in the words "after these things" which refers to the church (Revelation 1:19; 4:1). The first mention of the resurrection of the dead is not until Revelation 20:5. Daniel speaks of the time of the resurrection of the just even though it is mentioned in association with the time of the Tribulation it is also grouped with the resurrection of the unjust which we know to be separated by 1000 years (Daniel 12:2; Revelation 20:5). The only event in the book of Revelation that describes a catching away is found in Revelation 12:5, which speaks of a man child that was born to a woman clothed with the sun and the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars which is an Old Testament symbol for Israel (Genesis 37:9-10). The most appropriate understanding of this man child born of Israel is the 144,000 that is first mentioned as being sealed in Revelation 7:4 and then seen in heaven in Revelation 14:1 with the seal of the Father's name written in their forehead. When we examine the book of Revelation for the Trump of God or the last trump the only thing that can be found is in Revelation 10:7; 11:15-18. However, this does not concur with the fact that it is Jesus Himself who descends neither is there any mention of those who are alive in Christ being caught up. Jesus spoke of the time at the end of the Tribulation when he would send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet who will gather together His elect but by context this is associated with His return to the earth with His saints in Revelation 19:11-21. The reason that the events of 1 Thessalonians 4:16 and 1 Corinthians 15:51 are not found in the book of Revelation is because they occur before the Tribulation of Revelation 4-19.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Daily Bread
1 Thessalonians 3:13 - "Unto the establishment of your hearts blameless in holiness before God and our Father in the coming of the Lord our Jesus with all His holy ones."
When the scripture refers to the coming of the Lord Jesus it is important to recognize that there are four separate events that are referred to. The first time that Jesus came was when He was incarnated and born of the virgin to live, die, and resurrect for all mankind. The second time that Jesus comes is when He comes to manifest himself to the believers (John 14:18, 23). In fact, every time that two or three are gathered together in His name He is there. The third time that Jesus will come is at the time of the "catching away" or "rapture of the church." This takes place at the end of the church age which is also the end of God calling the nations to salvation; rather, God will come to fight against the nations on behalf of Israel. God will only be calling the nation of Israel to repentance during the seven years of the Tribulation. The church age ends just prior to the beginning of the Tribulation or the chronology of events that begin in the fourth chapter of Revelation (1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 1 Corinthians 15:51-52; John 14:3; James 5:7-8; Revelation 1:19; 4:1). The fourth time that Jesus will come is when He comes with all of His saints and will set up God's Kingdom on earth for 1000 years. This event is pictured in Revelation 19:11-20:6; 2 Thessalonians 2:8; Matthew 24:3-31 and Jude 1:14-15). There are several Greek words that are used for the coming of the Lord. One of these Greek words is "parousia" which is the Greek word used in this verse. Another is "apokalupsis" which means revealing or revelation. This particular word was used by the Apostle Peter in 1 Peter 1:7 and also used by Paul in 2 Thessalonians 1:7. The Greek word "parousia" is used seven times in 1 and 2 Thessalonians. It is used of the coming of the Lord Jesus when He came 2000 years ago as well of His future coming (2 Peter 1:16). It is used of the catching away when Jesus meets His saints in the air. It is also used of the time when Jesus returns with His saints to fight in the Battle of Armageddon. And, finally, it is used of the coming of God when the New Heavens and the New Earth will be created at the end of the 1000 year reign of Christ Jesus and His saints (2 Peter 3:12). When the scripture addresses the "parousia" of Jesus to the saints it is always referring to His coming at the time of the catching away (1 Thessalonians 4:15; 1 John 2:28; 1 Thessalonians 2:19; 3:13). In summary, Jesus came to redeem, He comes to reveal Himself to His church, He will come to receive His church unto Himself, He will come with His saints to destroy the armies of the antichrist and set up his eternal Kingdom.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 Thessalonians 3:13 - "Unto the establishment of your hearts blameless in holiness before God and our Father in the coming of the Lord our Jesus with all His holy ones."
When the scripture refers to the coming of the Lord Jesus it is important to recognize that there are four separate events that are referred to. The first time that Jesus came was when He was incarnated and born of the virgin to live, die, and resurrect for all mankind. The second time that Jesus comes is when He comes to manifest himself to the believers (John 14:18, 23). In fact, every time that two or three are gathered together in His name He is there. The third time that Jesus will come is at the time of the "catching away" or "rapture of the church." This takes place at the end of the church age which is also the end of God calling the nations to salvation; rather, God will come to fight against the nations on behalf of Israel. God will only be calling the nation of Israel to repentance during the seven years of the Tribulation. The church age ends just prior to the beginning of the Tribulation or the chronology of events that begin in the fourth chapter of Revelation (1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 1 Corinthians 15:51-52; John 14:3; James 5:7-8; Revelation 1:19; 4:1). The fourth time that Jesus will come is when He comes with all of His saints and will set up God's Kingdom on earth for 1000 years. This event is pictured in Revelation 19:11-20:6; 2 Thessalonians 2:8; Matthew 24:3-31 and Jude 1:14-15). There are several Greek words that are used for the coming of the Lord. One of these Greek words is "parousia" which is the Greek word used in this verse. Another is "apokalupsis" which means revealing or revelation. This particular word was used by the Apostle Peter in 1 Peter 1:7 and also used by Paul in 2 Thessalonians 1:7. The Greek word "parousia" is used seven times in 1 and 2 Thessalonians. It is used of the coming of the Lord Jesus when He came 2000 years ago as well of His future coming (2 Peter 1:16). It is used of the catching away when Jesus meets His saints in the air. It is also used of the time when Jesus returns with His saints to fight in the Battle of Armageddon. And, finally, it is used of the coming of God when the New Heavens and the New Earth will be created at the end of the 1000 year reign of Christ Jesus and His saints (2 Peter 3:12). When the scripture addresses the "parousia" of Jesus to the saints it is always referring to His coming at the time of the catching away (1 Thessalonians 4:15; 1 John 2:28; 1 Thessalonians 2:19; 3:13). In summary, Jesus came to redeem, He comes to reveal Himself to His church, He will come to receive His church unto Himself, He will come with His saints to destroy the armies of the antichrist and set up his eternal Kingdom.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Daily Bread
Acts 7:4 - "Then he came out from the country of the Chaldeans and settled in Haran. And after that his father died he was made to move into this country where you now dwell."
Abraham was born in Ur, which was a town in southern Mesopotamia and southern Babylon (Genesis 11:28, 31; Genesis 15:7; Nehemiah 9:7). Evidently, Abraham's father was involved in this call to some degree. It may be that he came with Abraham because he believed in the call on Abraham's life. Terah began to have sons at 70 years of age and he died in Haran at the age of 205 (Genesis 11:26, 32). Abraham was 75 years old when he left Haran after his father's death. Therefore, Terah would have been 130 years old when Abraham was born (Genesis 12:4). We cannot be certain how old Abraham was when God first appeared to him in Ur but we do know that he was married to Sarai long enough for Sarai to be classified as barren, a title given to those who have little to no hope of ever having children. Abraham may have been 70 years old, which would have made Terah 200 years old. It may be that Abraham needed to take care of his aged father and also his orphaned nephew Lot and this is why they left Ur with Abraham. We know that Abraham was very prompt in obeying God as exemplified by his speedy response to sacrifice Isaac in Genesis 22:3. It may be that God appeared to Abraham giving him the promise at 70 years of age at which time his sojourning began (Galatians 3:17; Hebrews 11:8; Exodus 12:40). The sojourning of Abraham and his descendents during the time of Promise would last a total of 430 years as testified by both Paul and Moses.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Acts 7:4 - "Then he came out from the country of the Chaldeans and settled in Haran. And after that his father died he was made to move into this country where you now dwell."
Abraham was born in Ur, which was a town in southern Mesopotamia and southern Babylon (Genesis 11:28, 31; Genesis 15:7; Nehemiah 9:7). Evidently, Abraham's father was involved in this call to some degree. It may be that he came with Abraham because he believed in the call on Abraham's life. Terah began to have sons at 70 years of age and he died in Haran at the age of 205 (Genesis 11:26, 32). Abraham was 75 years old when he left Haran after his father's death. Therefore, Terah would have been 130 years old when Abraham was born (Genesis 12:4). We cannot be certain how old Abraham was when God first appeared to him in Ur but we do know that he was married to Sarai long enough for Sarai to be classified as barren, a title given to those who have little to no hope of ever having children. Abraham may have been 70 years old, which would have made Terah 200 years old. It may be that Abraham needed to take care of his aged father and also his orphaned nephew Lot and this is why they left Ur with Abraham. We know that Abraham was very prompt in obeying God as exemplified by his speedy response to sacrifice Isaac in Genesis 22:3. It may be that God appeared to Abraham giving him the promise at 70 years of age at which time his sojourning began (Galatians 3:17; Hebrews 11:8; Exodus 12:40). The sojourning of Abraham and his descendents during the time of Promise would last a total of 430 years as testified by both Paul and Moses.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Daily Bread
1 John 2: 27 - "And the anointing that you have received from Him abides in you and you do not need that anyone teach you, but just as the anointing teaches you about everything and is no lie and just as it has taught you, you shall abide in Him."
The anointing that we have received from the Holy One of verse 20, "charisma" is the anointing that teaches us all things. The anointing "charisma", in this respect is identified with the work of the Holy Spirit who was sent specifically to be our teacher and guide (John 16:13-15). Both John 14:17 and 1 John 3:24 teach us that the abiding presence of the Father and the Son are brought to us by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. One of the specific attributes of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is the "charisma". Jesus received the "charine" (anointing) after the Holy Spirit had come upon Him, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because He has anointed me to preach" (Luke 4:18) also "How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power who went about doing good and healing all those who were oppressed with the devil for God was with him" (Acts 10:38). Just as Jesus was empowered to function in His miracle ministry through the anointing, we are empowered to function in the divine life through the anointing. Thus through the anointing the Holy Spirit leads us, guides us and reveals the ways of the Father to us. The anointing is a divine empowerment and supernatural ability that has been given to the believer to live the life of a new creature. When Saul was anointed to be king he was given the divine ability to be a king; prior to the anointing he was an ordinary man. The same is true of all Old Testament prophets, priest, warriors and special workman. When the Spirit came upon them they were empowered with a specific ability to carry out their divine commission. The anointing supercedes the assistance and help of man, because it goes far beyond human capabilities. The message of the Gospel is that we are to abide in Jesus. It is through this abiding union that we have been given in the Holy Spirit that we are empowered to live the divine life of Christ Jesus.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 John 2: 27 - "And the anointing that you have received from Him abides in you and you do not need that anyone teach you, but just as the anointing teaches you about everything and is no lie and just as it has taught you, you shall abide in Him."
The anointing that we have received from the Holy One of verse 20, "charisma" is the anointing that teaches us all things. The anointing "charisma", in this respect is identified with the work of the Holy Spirit who was sent specifically to be our teacher and guide (John 16:13-15). Both John 14:17 and 1 John 3:24 teach us that the abiding presence of the Father and the Son are brought to us by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. One of the specific attributes of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is the "charisma". Jesus received the "charine" (anointing) after the Holy Spirit had come upon Him, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because He has anointed me to preach" (Luke 4:18) also "How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power who went about doing good and healing all those who were oppressed with the devil for God was with him" (Acts 10:38). Just as Jesus was empowered to function in His miracle ministry through the anointing, we are empowered to function in the divine life through the anointing. Thus through the anointing the Holy Spirit leads us, guides us and reveals the ways of the Father to us. The anointing is a divine empowerment and supernatural ability that has been given to the believer to live the life of a new creature. When Saul was anointed to be king he was given the divine ability to be a king; prior to the anointing he was an ordinary man. The same is true of all Old Testament prophets, priest, warriors and special workman. When the Spirit came upon them they were empowered with a specific ability to carry out their divine commission. The anointing supercedes the assistance and help of man, because it goes far beyond human capabilities. The message of the Gospel is that we are to abide in Jesus. It is through this abiding union that we have been given in the Holy Spirit that we are empowered to live the divine life of Christ Jesus.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Monday, July 17, 2006
Daily Bread
2 Thessalonians 1:3 - "We owe it to give thanks to God always for you brethren as it is right because your faith increases beyond measure and the love of each one of you abounds toward one another."
In 1 Thessalonians 3:10 Paul reveals his desire to come to the Thessalonians to perfect that which was lacking in their faith which, afterward, resulted in their faith having increased beyond measure. He also prayed that God would make them to increase and abound in love one toward another which prayer was certainly answered (1 Thessalonians 3:12). This is the only time that this Greek word, "huperauxano" is used in the Bible. It is a compound word from "huper" which means "beyond or more than, exceedingly" and "auxano" which means "grow or increase." Faith is a gift that comes from God to which He supplies everyone with a measure (Romans 12:3). Faith is not only likened unto a mustard seed, but is also likened unto something that grows and may be increased (2 Thessalonians 1:3; 2 Corinthians 10:15). We know that Jesus referred to situations with the disciples where they had no faith (Mark 4:40; Luke 8:25). There were also those who had great faith (Matthew 15:28; Luke 7:9)). Faith may be weak in one who believes and it may also be strong (Acts 6:8; Romans 14:1). From the ministry that Paul was able to supply to the Thessalonians, he was able to take them from a place of lack to abundance in the realm of faith. God has invited all men into the realm of His faith and even commands that we "have God's faith" (Mark 11:22; Acts 6:5).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Abiding Place: www.abidingplace.org
2 Thessalonians 1:3 - "We owe it to give thanks to God always for you brethren as it is right because your faith increases beyond measure and the love of each one of you abounds toward one another."
In 1 Thessalonians 3:10 Paul reveals his desire to come to the Thessalonians to perfect that which was lacking in their faith which, afterward, resulted in their faith having increased beyond measure. He also prayed that God would make them to increase and abound in love one toward another which prayer was certainly answered (1 Thessalonians 3:12). This is the only time that this Greek word, "huperauxano" is used in the Bible. It is a compound word from "huper" which means "beyond or more than, exceedingly" and "auxano" which means "grow or increase." Faith is a gift that comes from God to which He supplies everyone with a measure (Romans 12:3). Faith is not only likened unto a mustard seed, but is also likened unto something that grows and may be increased (2 Thessalonians 1:3; 2 Corinthians 10:15). We know that Jesus referred to situations with the disciples where they had no faith (Mark 4:40; Luke 8:25). There were also those who had great faith (Matthew 15:28; Luke 7:9)). Faith may be weak in one who believes and it may also be strong (Acts 6:8; Romans 14:1). From the ministry that Paul was able to supply to the Thessalonians, he was able to take them from a place of lack to abundance in the realm of faith. God has invited all men into the realm of His faith and even commands that we "have God's faith" (Mark 11:22; Acts 6:5).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Abiding Place: www.abidingplace.org
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Daily Bread
John 1:32: "And John was able to make him known pointing out that he was able to see with his eyes the Spirit come down upon him as a dove out of heaven and remain upon him."
Jesus was lacking this dimension of the Glory and Power of God until this event. Although Jesus was the only begotten Son of God who was perfectly pure and holy having no nature of sin within Himself, He had not received the Spirit without measure until He was baptized of John in the Jordan. As Jesus submitted Himself to the ministry that had gone before Him and fulfilled all righteousness, the Heavens were open and Father endued Him with power from on high. It is at this moment that God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and Power to preach the gospel to the meek, bind up the broken in heart, proclaim deliverance to the captives, recovery of sight to the blind, set at liberty those who are bruised, and proclaim the acceptable day of the Lord.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: awakesd@earthlink.net
Phone: 858-566-1700
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
John 1:32: "And John was able to make him known pointing out that he was able to see with his eyes the Spirit come down upon him as a dove out of heaven and remain upon him."
Jesus was lacking this dimension of the Glory and Power of God until this event. Although Jesus was the only begotten Son of God who was perfectly pure and holy having no nature of sin within Himself, He had not received the Spirit without measure until He was baptized of John in the Jordan. As Jesus submitted Himself to the ministry that had gone before Him and fulfilled all righteousness, the Heavens were open and Father endued Him with power from on high. It is at this moment that God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and Power to preach the gospel to the meek, bind up the broken in heart, proclaim deliverance to the captives, recovery of sight to the blind, set at liberty those who are bruised, and proclaim the acceptable day of the Lord.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: awakesd@earthlink.net
Phone: 858-566-1700
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Friday, July 14, 2006
Daily Bread
Acts 2:16-18: "But this is that spoken through the prophet Joel. And it shall be in the last days" says God, "I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy and your young men shall see visions and your old men shall dream dreams. And upon my male and female servants I will pour out my Spirit in those days and they shall prophesy."
This is not an exact quote of what is written in either the Septuagint or the Hebrew Bible (MT). However, the differences are only minor and may be understood in light of the Holy Spirit speaking expressly through Peter of its New Covenant application. The following is a quote from both the Hebrew Bible and the Septuagint, "And it will happen after this that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy; your elders will dream dreams your young men will see visions. And also upon the slaves and upon the maidservants in those days I will pour out My Spirit. I will give wonders in the heavens and in the earth: blood and fire and pillars of smoke. The sun shall turn to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and awesome day of YHWH. And it will be that anyone who calls on the name of YHWH will be saved" (Joel 3:1-4). Peter makes a few initial changes by the Holy Spirit; he changes "after this" to "in the last days" and he adds "says God." Both of these changes result in a clearer picture of the prophecy by establishing that this is an event for the last days and that this was said by God and not merely by a prophet named Joel. Also "your servants" is changed to "my servants," removing the limitation of servants just to the nation of Israel and opening the door to all of God's servants in very nation. Finally, "they shall prophesy" is added underscoring that the effect of the outpouring of the Spirit will be the same for the servants as for the masters. Now this broadened scope of servants would include all men everywhere that are the servants of God such as the Samaritans and the house of Cornelius (Acts 8,10).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: awakesd@earthlink.net
Phone: 858-566-1700
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Acts 2:16-18: "But this is that spoken through the prophet Joel. And it shall be in the last days" says God, "I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy and your young men shall see visions and your old men shall dream dreams. And upon my male and female servants I will pour out my Spirit in those days and they shall prophesy."
This is not an exact quote of what is written in either the Septuagint or the Hebrew Bible (MT). However, the differences are only minor and may be understood in light of the Holy Spirit speaking expressly through Peter of its New Covenant application. The following is a quote from both the Hebrew Bible and the Septuagint, "And it will happen after this that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy; your elders will dream dreams your young men will see visions. And also upon the slaves and upon the maidservants in those days I will pour out My Spirit. I will give wonders in the heavens and in the earth: blood and fire and pillars of smoke. The sun shall turn to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and awesome day of YHWH. And it will be that anyone who calls on the name of YHWH will be saved" (Joel 3:1-4). Peter makes a few initial changes by the Holy Spirit; he changes "after this" to "in the last days" and he adds "says God." Both of these changes result in a clearer picture of the prophecy by establishing that this is an event for the last days and that this was said by God and not merely by a prophet named Joel. Also "your servants" is changed to "my servants," removing the limitation of servants just to the nation of Israel and opening the door to all of God's servants in very nation. Finally, "they shall prophesy" is added underscoring that the effect of the outpouring of the Spirit will be the same for the servants as for the masters. Now this broadened scope of servants would include all men everywhere that are the servants of God such as the Samaritans and the house of Cornelius (Acts 8,10).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: awakesd@earthlink.net
Phone: 858-566-1700
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Daily Bread
Ephesians 2:5: "Even when we were dead in trespasses made us alive together with Christ, by Grace you are saved."
The work of salvation takes place in our lives simply because we are willing to accept that Jesus died for us and through His death He paid our just penalty for sin. It is necessary then that we fully embrace His life and identity as well. For He is in fact more than our substitute or representative for we died with Him that we might live with Him. The miracle of the new birth is the result of the former things having been put to death through our death with Christ Jesus for we were "crucified with Christ" (Galatians 2:20). Because we are "buried with him by baptism into His death" the entirety of our existence now is to be in Him (Romans 6:4). "For we thus judge if one died for all then all are dead that we should no longer live for ourselves but for the one who died for us" (2Cor.5:14-15). As a result we are alive together with Him, we are raised up together and made to sit together in the heavens, this is Grace! God's Grace produces for us what we could never supply for ourselves. All we have to do is accept what He has done for us and surrender ourselves to His work of Grace that has both changed us and perfects us. Because of God's great love and unspeakable gift we are given co-life, co- resurrection and co-enthronement. All we have to do is to trust in Him.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: awakesd@earthlink.net
Phone: 858-566-1700
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Ephesians 2:5: "Even when we were dead in trespasses made us alive together with Christ, by Grace you are saved."
The work of salvation takes place in our lives simply because we are willing to accept that Jesus died for us and through His death He paid our just penalty for sin. It is necessary then that we fully embrace His life and identity as well. For He is in fact more than our substitute or representative for we died with Him that we might live with Him. The miracle of the new birth is the result of the former things having been put to death through our death with Christ Jesus for we were "crucified with Christ" (Galatians 2:20). Because we are "buried with him by baptism into His death" the entirety of our existence now is to be in Him (Romans 6:4). "For we thus judge if one died for all then all are dead that we should no longer live for ourselves but for the one who died for us" (2Cor.5:14-15). As a result we are alive together with Him, we are raised up together and made to sit together in the heavens, this is Grace! God's Grace produces for us what we could never supply for ourselves. All we have to do is accept what He has done for us and surrender ourselves to His work of Grace that has both changed us and perfects us. Because of God's great love and unspeakable gift we are given co-life, co- resurrection and co-enthronement. All we have to do is to trust in Him.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: awakesd@earthlink.net
Phone: 858-566-1700
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Daily Bread
Ephesians 2:5: "Even when we were dead in trespasses made us alive together with Christ, by Grace you are saved."
The work of salvation takes place in our lives simply because we are willing to accept that Jesus died for us and through His death He paid our just penalty for sin. It is necessary then that we fully embrace His life and identity as well. For He is in fact more than our substitute or representative for we died with Him that we might live with Him. The miracle of the new birth is the result of the former things having been put to death through our death with Christ Jesus for we were "crucified with Christ" (Galatians 2:20). Because we are "buried with him by baptism into His death" the entirety of our existence now is to be in Him (Romans 6:4). "For we thus judge if one died for all then all are dead that we should no longer live for ourselves but for the one who died for us" (2Cor.5:14-15). As a result we are alive together with Him, we are raised up together and made to sit together in the heavens, this is Grace! God's Grace produces for us what we could never supply for ourselves. All we have to do is accept what He has done for us and surrender ourselves to His work of Grace that has both changed us and perfects us. Because of God's great love and unspeakable gift we are given co-life, co- resurrection and co-enthronement. All we have to do is to trust in Him.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: awakesd@earthlink.net
Phone: 858-566-1700
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Ephesians 2:5: "Even when we were dead in trespasses made us alive together with Christ, by Grace you are saved."
The work of salvation takes place in our lives simply because we are willing to accept that Jesus died for us and through His death He paid our just penalty for sin. It is necessary then that we fully embrace His life and identity as well. For He is in fact more than our substitute or representative for we died with Him that we might live with Him. The miracle of the new birth is the result of the former things having been put to death through our death with Christ Jesus for we were "crucified with Christ" (Galatians 2:20). Because we are "buried with him by baptism into His death" the entirety of our existence now is to be in Him (Romans 6:4). "For we thus judge if one died for all then all are dead that we should no longer live for ourselves but for the one who died for us" (2Cor.5:14-15). As a result we are alive together with Him, we are raised up together and made to sit together in the heavens, this is Grace! God's Grace produces for us what we could never supply for ourselves. All we have to do is accept what He has done for us and surrender ourselves to His work of Grace that has both changed us and perfects us. Because of God's great love and unspeakable gift we are given co-life, co- resurrection and co-enthronement. All we have to do is to trust in Him.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: awakesd@earthlink.net
Phone: 858-566-1700
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Daily Bread
2 Thessalonians 1:11: "Unto which we also pray continually for you that our God would count you worthy of the calling and fill you will all the goodness of His good pleasure and work of faith in power."
Paul relates the similar message in Ephesians 4:1: "I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation where with ye are called."; Colossians 1:10: "That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God." and 1 Thessalonians 2:12: "That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory."In each case, the Greek word 'axios' is used which is derived from the root word used here which is 'axioo,' to count worthy. When Paul ministered the gospel to the Jews in Acts chapter 13, they refused to listen and rejected the good news, therefore, because of their rejection of the gospel Paul said that they judged themselves unworthy of everlasting life (Acts 13:46). Therefore, we may suppose that Paul's usage of this word underscores that the rejection of the gospel makes one unworthy, whereas, the acceptance and obedience to the gospel makes one worthy. If we are willing to believe all that God has said we will discover that He will make it a reality in our lives. We simply accept His love, and believe on the Lord Jesus, and we are saved. If we will accept the commission and believe in the work of the Holy Spirit we will discover all of His works of power in our lives as well.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
2 Thessalonians 1:11: "Unto which we also pray continually for you that our God would count you worthy of the calling and fill you will all the goodness of His good pleasure and work of faith in power."
Paul relates the similar message in Ephesians 4:1: "I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation where with ye are called."; Colossians 1:10: "That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God." and 1 Thessalonians 2:12: "That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory."In each case, the Greek word 'axios' is used which is derived from the root word used here which is 'axioo,' to count worthy. When Paul ministered the gospel to the Jews in Acts chapter 13, they refused to listen and rejected the good news, therefore, because of their rejection of the gospel Paul said that they judged themselves unworthy of everlasting life (Acts 13:46). Therefore, we may suppose that Paul's usage of this word underscores that the rejection of the gospel makes one unworthy, whereas, the acceptance and obedience to the gospel makes one worthy. If we are willing to believe all that God has said we will discover that He will make it a reality in our lives. We simply accept His love, and believe on the Lord Jesus, and we are saved. If we will accept the commission and believe in the work of the Holy Spirit we will discover all of His works of power in our lives as well.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Daily Bread
Romans 8:14: "For as many as are Spirit of God led these are the sons of God."
The responsibility of everyone that has been born of the Spirit is that they allow the Holy Spirit to lead them. The Spirit of God has come to personally instruct and train everyone who has been made a son of God (John 16:13-15). It is the responsibility of every child of God to yield to the leading of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will lead us and guide us into all truth. He will teach us to do everything that pleases the Father. He will train us to walk in all of the ways of righteousness and holiness; all we must do is yield to Him.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Romans 8:14: "For as many as are Spirit of God led these are the sons of God."
The responsibility of everyone that has been born of the Spirit is that they allow the Holy Spirit to lead them. The Spirit of God has come to personally instruct and train everyone who has been made a son of God (John 16:13-15). It is the responsibility of every child of God to yield to the leading of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will lead us and guide us into all truth. He will teach us to do everything that pleases the Father. He will train us to walk in all of the ways of righteousness and holiness; all we must do is yield to Him.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Monday, July 10, 2006
Daily Bread
2 Peter 1:10 "On account of this brethren, instead be diligent to make your calling and election sure for doing these things you shall never fall."
The doctrine of election as taught by the scripture is, in fact, a divine selection of all men unto salvation. The divine selection of all men to salvation is stated in no uncertain terms when Paul said that God has "commanded all men everywhere to repent." The Greek noun 'ekloge' is used only seven times in the New Testament. It is not used at all in any of the canonized books of the Septuagint. The word means "divine selection." The doctrine of "election" or 'divine selection' can easily be understood once a person decides whom it is that God loves and who it was that Christ died for. Upon the realization that God loves the whole world and that Christ died that all men might be saved, the doctrine of election becomes easy to understand.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
2 Peter 1:10 "On account of this brethren, instead be diligent to make your calling and election sure for doing these things you shall never fall."
The doctrine of election as taught by the scripture is, in fact, a divine selection of all men unto salvation. The divine selection of all men to salvation is stated in no uncertain terms when Paul said that God has "commanded all men everywhere to repent." The Greek noun 'ekloge' is used only seven times in the New Testament. It is not used at all in any of the canonized books of the Septuagint. The word means "divine selection." The doctrine of "election" or 'divine selection' can easily be understood once a person decides whom it is that God loves and who it was that Christ died for. Upon the realization that God loves the whole world and that Christ died that all men might be saved, the doctrine of election becomes easy to understand.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
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