Daily Bread - 06/02/07
Philemon 1: 6 - So that the communication of your faith may be effectual by acknowledging of every good thing in you by Christ Jesus
Today there are some who would say that there is no good thing in us. They misunderstand a single point made about the inadequacy of the law to produce the righteousness and life of God in man (Romans 7). Yet the statement made by the same preacher in Philemon should help to turn us to the acknowledgment of the truth which is after godliness (Titus 1:1).
When we consider the fact that Christ Jesus now lives and dwells in us by the Spirit then we may understand what Paul was referring to by "every good thing" that is in us (1 John 3:24). One of Paul's main subjects was that we are made the righteousness of God. However, if we do not believe and confess this to be true then we will never reap the many blessings and benefits of this glorious salvation. God has made us one with himself so that we may say that we are the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus (Romans 1:17; 3:21, 22; 10:3; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Philippians 3:9).
If we do not accept the word of God and the identity that God has given us in Christ Jesus then the miracle of faith will not work in our life. If the centurion had refused to believe that Jesus had the authority to heal his son then there would have been no display of great faith (Matthew 8:10). If Jairus had been unwilling to believe that Jesus could heal his daughter then she would have never been raised from the dead (Mark 5:36). If any mountains are going to be moved and the realms of the impossible shown to be possible through faith then some one must agree with God's word and then speak and act accordingly (Mark 11:23-24).
Paul equates the miracles of faith working through our life with first acknowledging and then communicating that "good thing" that is in us. Some of the descriptions of the "good thing" that is in us are: Christ in us the hope of glory (John 14:20, 23; Colossians 1:27; 2 Corinthians 11:10; 1 John 4:4; Colossians 3:16; Galatians 2:20); The Spirit of God in His fullness as we are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:17; 6:19); The new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 6:15; Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10); A heart made pure (Colossians 2:12; 1 Peter 1:22; Hebrews 10:22; Matthew 5:8); Purified soul (1 Peter 1:22; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; 1 Peter 2:25) Sins removed (Acts 22:66; Colossians 2:12; Romans 6:6; 1 John 1:9; Acts 11:9; Revelation 1:5; Matthew 26:28; Acts 2:38; 10:43; Romans 3:25); Baptized in the Holy Spirit and fire (Matthew 3:11; Mark 1:8; Acts 1:5; Acts 2:38; Acts 11:16); A good and pure conscience (1 Timothy 1:5; 3:9; 2 Timothy 1:3; Hebrews 9:14; 10:2,22; 1 Peter 3:16).
Our responsibility to speak out faith by a declaration of the word is fundamental to salvation. The instructions that Paul gave in Romans 10:6-10 underscores the necessity to speak out those things which God has spoken. The word of faith that produces the miracle of salvation is the same word of faith that produces all of the other blessings and promises of God. Confession according to Paul is made unto salvation. Equally, believing with the heart that one is made righteous is also essential. The spirit of faith that is in us speaks out the word of God according as we have believed (2 Corinthians 4:13). Paul made it clear to Philemon that if faith was going to work (Gr- energia/effectual) in his life then there must be an acknowledgement of what God had made him. (Titus 1:11; Colossians 2:2).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Saturday, June 02, 2007
Friday, June 01, 2007
Daily Bread - 06/01/07
1 Thessalonians 5:8 - But we being of the day should be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love and the hope of salvation as a helmet.
The Bible uses a breastplate (coat of mail) as a metaphor for both faith and righteousness (Ephesians 6:14). The metaphor of putting righteousness on as a breastplate was first use by the prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 59:17). When Isaiah described the armor that God would put on when He came to bring salvation he said, "For he put on righteousness as a breastplate and a helmet of salvation upon his head (Isaiah 59:17a). Paul draws on this same military might that God has given to us to successfully stand against all of the wiles of the devil (Ephesians 6:10-18). He tells us to be strong in the strength of the Lord and the power of his might and then turns our attention to the armor that God wears.
God's armor that Paul describes in Ephesians likens faith to a shield instead of a breastplate (Ephesians 6:19). The first time that a shield is mentioned in the Bible is in Genesis 15:1 when God told Abraham, "Fear not, Abram, I am your shield!" Moses also used a similar metaphor to describe God's protections for His people calling God "the shield of your help, and the sword of your Excellency" (Deuteronomy 33:29 b). Those who have faith do not need to put on a protective coat of armor that runs from the neck all the way to the thighs on both the front and back. Faith is far superior for protection than a literal coat of mail. When David went out against Goliath he had nothing in his hand but a sling and a few stones. Goliath on the other hand had weapons as well as all of the protective armor which included a coat of mail that weight 5000 shekels of 60 kg (1 Samuel 17:15). Goliath's breastplate was no doubt magnificent but it was useless against David's faith. Perhaps in recollection of this event David sang in worship to the Lord, "But you, O Lord, are a shield for me, my glory and the lifter of my head; You have given me the shield of your salvation: and your right hand has held me up, and your gentleness has made me great; The Lord is my strength and my shield." David described God as a shield to his people 17 times in the Psalms (Psalms 3:3; 5:12; 18:35; 28:7; 33:20; 35:2; 47:9; 59:11; 76:3; 84:9, 11; 91:4; 115:9, 10, 11; 119:114).
Faith and righteousness both flow out from God to us through the relationship that we have been given in Christ Jesus . God describes His love for us in His word and then further reveals that love to us in a very personal way by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5). We must recognize that every word of God is pure and respond to those things that He says concerning the way that He wants us to live. If we will simply believe what God says in His word then we will discover that he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him (Proverbs 30:5). In this love relationship with God we will discover that nothing is impossible for us. As we abide in His love we find ourselves both empowered for greatness and protected against all of the snares of our enemy (1 John 4:16; Galatians 5:6).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 Thessalonians 5:8 - But we being of the day should be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love and the hope of salvation as a helmet.
The Bible uses a breastplate (coat of mail) as a metaphor for both faith and righteousness (Ephesians 6:14). The metaphor of putting righteousness on as a breastplate was first use by the prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 59:17). When Isaiah described the armor that God would put on when He came to bring salvation he said, "For he put on righteousness as a breastplate and a helmet of salvation upon his head (Isaiah 59:17a). Paul draws on this same military might that God has given to us to successfully stand against all of the wiles of the devil (Ephesians 6:10-18). He tells us to be strong in the strength of the Lord and the power of his might and then turns our attention to the armor that God wears.
God's armor that Paul describes in Ephesians likens faith to a shield instead of a breastplate (Ephesians 6:19). The first time that a shield is mentioned in the Bible is in Genesis 15:1 when God told Abraham, "Fear not, Abram, I am your shield!" Moses also used a similar metaphor to describe God's protections for His people calling God "the shield of your help, and the sword of your Excellency" (Deuteronomy 33:29 b). Those who have faith do not need to put on a protective coat of armor that runs from the neck all the way to the thighs on both the front and back. Faith is far superior for protection than a literal coat of mail. When David went out against Goliath he had nothing in his hand but a sling and a few stones. Goliath on the other hand had weapons as well as all of the protective armor which included a coat of mail that weight 5000 shekels of 60 kg (1 Samuel 17:15). Goliath's breastplate was no doubt magnificent but it was useless against David's faith. Perhaps in recollection of this event David sang in worship to the Lord, "But you, O Lord, are a shield for me, my glory and the lifter of my head; You have given me the shield of your salvation: and your right hand has held me up, and your gentleness has made me great; The Lord is my strength and my shield." David described God as a shield to his people 17 times in the Psalms (Psalms 3:3; 5:12; 18:35; 28:7; 33:20; 35:2; 47:9; 59:11; 76:3; 84:9, 11; 91:4; 115:9, 10, 11; 119:114).
Faith and righteousness both flow out from God to us through the relationship that we have been given in Christ Jesus . God describes His love for us in His word and then further reveals that love to us in a very personal way by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5). We must recognize that every word of God is pure and respond to those things that He says concerning the way that He wants us to live. If we will simply believe what God says in His word then we will discover that he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him (Proverbs 30:5). In this love relationship with God we will discover that nothing is impossible for us. As we abide in His love we find ourselves both empowered for greatness and protected against all of the snares of our enemy (1 John 4:16; Galatians 5:6).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/31/07
John 5:24 - With absolute certainly I tell you, Those who hear my word and believe in the One who has sent Me has eternal life and shall not come into judgment but has passed from death into life.
God has made it easy for us to believe. He came with His awesome displays of love and His signs and wonders. He spoke the word of life so that all who hear could be healed and pass from death to life (Ephesians 2:1; 1 John 3:14; Psalms 107:20). He gave to every man a measure of faith to mix with His word so that what He spoke would be a living reality (Romans 12:3; Hebrews 4:2). All we have to do is be willing to cooperate with God and we receive eternal life - a quality of life that is present right at the time one hears the word and believes it (John 3:36; John 10:10; 1 John 5:12, 13).
Through the salvation that is in Christ Jesus we pass over from death into life even as the children of Israel passed over from slavery into freedom on the night of Passover (Exodus 12:11; 1 Corinthians 5:7). Jesus came that we might have eternal or unlimited life now and forever. It is an abundant life absent of death. The death being the realm of sin and darkness that took over Adam the day that he disobeyed God (Genesis 2:17; 3:8, 10-11). If we desire to fully benefit from all that God has supplied to us in Christ Jesus then we must learn to walk in obedience to the faith (Romans 1:5). Through the Word of God and the Spirit of God we can learn to walk in all of the blessings of this life in Christ Jesus.
Today lay hold on the quality of life that God has provided for you when you entered into eternal life. Enjoy the fellowship with the Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit that produces the abundant life of joy unspeakable peace that passes understanding and the righteousness of God. Find yourself living in heaven today as A.B. Simpson (the founder of the Christian Missionary Alliance) said, "Heaven is Jesus and Jesus is mine I am living in heaven today."
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 5:24 - With absolute certainly I tell you, Those who hear my word and believe in the One who has sent Me has eternal life and shall not come into judgment but has passed from death into life.
God has made it easy for us to believe. He came with His awesome displays of love and His signs and wonders. He spoke the word of life so that all who hear could be healed and pass from death to life (Ephesians 2:1; 1 John 3:14; Psalms 107:20). He gave to every man a measure of faith to mix with His word so that what He spoke would be a living reality (Romans 12:3; Hebrews 4:2). All we have to do is be willing to cooperate with God and we receive eternal life - a quality of life that is present right at the time one hears the word and believes it (John 3:36; John 10:10; 1 John 5:12, 13).
Through the salvation that is in Christ Jesus we pass over from death into life even as the children of Israel passed over from slavery into freedom on the night of Passover (Exodus 12:11; 1 Corinthians 5:7). Jesus came that we might have eternal or unlimited life now and forever. It is an abundant life absent of death. The death being the realm of sin and darkness that took over Adam the day that he disobeyed God (Genesis 2:17; 3:8, 10-11). If we desire to fully benefit from all that God has supplied to us in Christ Jesus then we must learn to walk in obedience to the faith (Romans 1:5). Through the Word of God and the Spirit of God we can learn to walk in all of the blessings of this life in Christ Jesus.
Today lay hold on the quality of life that God has provided for you when you entered into eternal life. Enjoy the fellowship with the Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit that produces the abundant life of joy unspeakable peace that passes understanding and the righteousness of God. Find yourself living in heaven today as A.B. Simpson (the founder of the Christian Missionary Alliance) said, "Heaven is Jesus and Jesus is mine I am living in heaven today."
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/30/07
Acts 22:17 - And after I returned to Jerusalem and while I was praying in the temple I came into an ecstasy.
Our English word ecstasy, which means a feeling of intense delight or exceptional joy, is a word that is both derived from the Greek language and pronounced similarly. The same Greek word is used to describe the state that Peter was in when he too received a vision from the Lord Jesus (Acts 10:10; 11:5). When Jesus healed the paralytic we are told that ecstasy took hold of everyone and they were filled with awe (Luke 5:26; Mark 2:12). Most translations simply give the impression that this was a natural effect of the miracle but there exists a very real possibility that this was also a miracle experience in God. The most striking evidence of this is the unique description of the effect that this miracle had by the usage of the word ecstasy. One of the only other instances where a similar effect was experienced was when the women saw the angel in the tomb who announced to them the resurrection of Jesus (Mark 16:8). The same effect was also experienced by the disciples after Jesus, who had been walking on the water, stepped into the boat (Mark 6:51).
At the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, those who heard the 120 speaking in tongues experienced this ecstatic effect (Acts 2:7). Then, finally, the miracle healing of the crippled man in Acts chapter 3 had the same effect on those who watched the miracle take place (Acts 3:10). Because this word is used to describe what may be understood as purely a human response, in the Septuagint and in Classical Greek, one might simply conclude that the meaning should not extend beyond the effect of astonishment and amazement (Genesis 27:33; Ezekiel 26:16; 27:35). However, the use of this word in association with the supernatural activity of the Spirit that allowed both Peter and Paul to receive divine revelation cannot be ignored. Such usage demands that the definition be extended to include a divine effect of the Spirit upon man. Furthermore, the usage of the associated verb "existemi," by Paul describes a unique state of the believer that is opposite of a normal state of mind (2 Corinthians 5:13).
When we consider the fact that ecstasy is associated with the activity of the Holy Spirit on men in both the Old and New Testament, then we must deal with the fact that the state of ecstasy may be extended to include every action of the Holy Spirit upon the life of the believer that infuses us with the inspiration to function in His gifts (Acts 2:14; 1 Corinthians 12, 14; Jude 1:20; Ephesians 6:18 etc...). By definition, then, this effect of the Holy Spirit would include joy unspeakable and full of glory (1 Peter 1:8; Romans 14:17); peace that passes understanding (Philippians 4:7; Romans 14:17); and the love of God (Romans 5:5).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Acts 22:17 - And after I returned to Jerusalem and while I was praying in the temple I came into an ecstasy.
Our English word ecstasy, which means a feeling of intense delight or exceptional joy, is a word that is both derived from the Greek language and pronounced similarly. The same Greek word is used to describe the state that Peter was in when he too received a vision from the Lord Jesus (Acts 10:10; 11:5). When Jesus healed the paralytic we are told that ecstasy took hold of everyone and they were filled with awe (Luke 5:26; Mark 2:12). Most translations simply give the impression that this was a natural effect of the miracle but there exists a very real possibility that this was also a miracle experience in God. The most striking evidence of this is the unique description of the effect that this miracle had by the usage of the word ecstasy. One of the only other instances where a similar effect was experienced was when the women saw the angel in the tomb who announced to them the resurrection of Jesus (Mark 16:8). The same effect was also experienced by the disciples after Jesus, who had been walking on the water, stepped into the boat (Mark 6:51).
At the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, those who heard the 120 speaking in tongues experienced this ecstatic effect (Acts 2:7). Then, finally, the miracle healing of the crippled man in Acts chapter 3 had the same effect on those who watched the miracle take place (Acts 3:10). Because this word is used to describe what may be understood as purely a human response, in the Septuagint and in Classical Greek, one might simply conclude that the meaning should not extend beyond the effect of astonishment and amazement (Genesis 27:33; Ezekiel 26:16; 27:35). However, the use of this word in association with the supernatural activity of the Spirit that allowed both Peter and Paul to receive divine revelation cannot be ignored. Such usage demands that the definition be extended to include a divine effect of the Spirit upon man. Furthermore, the usage of the associated verb "existemi," by Paul describes a unique state of the believer that is opposite of a normal state of mind (2 Corinthians 5:13).
When we consider the fact that ecstasy is associated with the activity of the Holy Spirit on men in both the Old and New Testament, then we must deal with the fact that the state of ecstasy may be extended to include every action of the Holy Spirit upon the life of the believer that infuses us with the inspiration to function in His gifts (Acts 2:14; 1 Corinthians 12, 14; Jude 1:20; Ephesians 6:18 etc...). By definition, then, this effect of the Holy Spirit would include joy unspeakable and full of glory (1 Peter 1:8; Romans 14:17); peace that passes understanding (Philippians 4:7; Romans 14:17); and the love of God (Romans 5:5).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/29/07
Acts 21:13 - Then Paul replied why are you making me cry and breaking my heart for I am not only ready to be bound but also to die in Jerusalem which I do eagerly for the name of the Lord Jesus.
Paul's dedication to reaching the lost could not have been expressed in a greater way than what was said by him in this verse. Paul did not feel this way out of a sense of legal obligation as though it was his religious duty, but out of the love of God that had taken over his soul for the lost. Even though his countrymen had persecuted him and created many difficult and harsh situations for him, he was still ready to go to Jerusalem and die if there was a chance of reaching them for the Kingdom (2 Corinthians 11:24; John 14:6; Acts 14:12; John 3). Paul knew that if Israel would once again enjoy the blessings of the Kingdom of God that they could not refuse to accept the long awaited Messiah (Romans 10:1; Romans 3:22-23). He also was burdened with the reality that without Christ Jesus they would be eternally damned and because the same love that God had for them was in him he was willing to lay down his life for them (Mark 16:16; 1 John 2:23; John 15:23; John 3:36; 6:53).
The whole meaning of Paul's life was to testify of Jesus Christ (Acts 20:24; Philippians 1:21). When we find the meaning and purpose of our life in Christ Jesus then it does not matter what things befall us, our hearts are fixed. In Christ Jesus we do not drift along being turned by the opinions of others and opposing circumstance. Our course is set with certainty and our plans thoroughly mapped out by God when we give ourselves over to living by the word of God. Even the prophecies that anointed men and woman give and the fears of dear friends cannot change the direction of one who has embraced the heavenly vision and found with certainty their place to labor in the Kingdom (Acts 20:23; 21:10-12). We can be certain that if we seek the Kingdom of God first then we will always find ourselves in the center of God's will for our lives (Matthew 6:33).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Acts 21:13 - Then Paul replied why are you making me cry and breaking my heart for I am not only ready to be bound but also to die in Jerusalem which I do eagerly for the name of the Lord Jesus.
Paul's dedication to reaching the lost could not have been expressed in a greater way than what was said by him in this verse. Paul did not feel this way out of a sense of legal obligation as though it was his religious duty, but out of the love of God that had taken over his soul for the lost. Even though his countrymen had persecuted him and created many difficult and harsh situations for him, he was still ready to go to Jerusalem and die if there was a chance of reaching them for the Kingdom (2 Corinthians 11:24; John 14:6; Acts 14:12; John 3). Paul knew that if Israel would once again enjoy the blessings of the Kingdom of God that they could not refuse to accept the long awaited Messiah (Romans 10:1; Romans 3:22-23). He also was burdened with the reality that without Christ Jesus they would be eternally damned and because the same love that God had for them was in him he was willing to lay down his life for them (Mark 16:16; 1 John 2:23; John 15:23; John 3:36; 6:53).
The whole meaning of Paul's life was to testify of Jesus Christ (Acts 20:24; Philippians 1:21). When we find the meaning and purpose of our life in Christ Jesus then it does not matter what things befall us, our hearts are fixed. In Christ Jesus we do not drift along being turned by the opinions of others and opposing circumstance. Our course is set with certainty and our plans thoroughly mapped out by God when we give ourselves over to living by the word of God. Even the prophecies that anointed men and woman give and the fears of dear friends cannot change the direction of one who has embraced the heavenly vision and found with certainty their place to labor in the Kingdom (Acts 20:23; 21:10-12). We can be certain that if we seek the Kingdom of God first then we will always find ourselves in the center of God's will for our lives (Matthew 6:33).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 05/28/07
Acts 21:9 - And this one had four virgin daughters who prophesied.
One of the many blessings of raising our children in the house of God where the Spirit of God has free course to minister is the effect that it has on them - especially when the parents themselves are full of the Holy Spirit. Philip the evangelist who had not been mentioned since his great evangelistic work in Acts chapter 8 had four daughters full of the Holy Spirit. There is little doubt that Philip continued to play a significant role in advancing the gospel and is not mentioned only because of the focus on the exploits of God through the Apostle Paul.
One of the great privileges of growing up in the first century church was the place that the Holy Spirit was given (John 14:26; Acts 1:2, 4:31, 5:3, 8:15, 10:38, 13:52, 15:8, 16:6, 19:2, 20:23, 28, 21:11; Romans 14:17, 15:13, 1 Corinthians 2:13). Everyone understood that the church meetings were to be run by the Holy Spirit and they devoted themselves to the activity of His manifestation in their meetings (1 Corinthians 12:7; Acts 2:4, 20:28; John 16:12-13). As a result, there were plenty of examples of men and women full of the gifts of the Holy Spirit who modeled Christian living.
Today if we will hunger for the same demonstration of the Spirit of God and give ourselves over to contend for the faith that was once delivered unto the church we will once again see the same awesome display of the Holy Spirit presiding over our meetings (Jude 1:3). With such devotion our children will grow up in the presence of the mighty display of the power of God and will themselves be full of the Spirit.
The gift of prophecy - like all of the other gifts - operates according to the proportion of faith that has been imparted by the grace of God (Romans 12:6; 1 Corinthians 12:10, 14:6, 31; Joel 2:28; Acts 2:17). Unfortunately, if we fail to recognize that these things are available to us then there will be no witness of them and the expectation and hunger to function in this realm will be absent. If there is no expectation of these gifts and blessings of God then there will be no development of our faith for them. Let us till up the fallow ground that lies barren in the house of God and plant the seeds of the word of God that they may spring up full of the wonderful manifestations of the Holy Spirit and His power. For without the display of the power of the Holy Spirit the church remains unseen.
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Acts 21:9 - And this one had four virgin daughters who prophesied.
One of the many blessings of raising our children in the house of God where the Spirit of God has free course to minister is the effect that it has on them - especially when the parents themselves are full of the Holy Spirit. Philip the evangelist who had not been mentioned since his great evangelistic work in Acts chapter 8 had four daughters full of the Holy Spirit. There is little doubt that Philip continued to play a significant role in advancing the gospel and is not mentioned only because of the focus on the exploits of God through the Apostle Paul.
One of the great privileges of growing up in the first century church was the place that the Holy Spirit was given (John 14:26; Acts 1:2, 4:31, 5:3, 8:15, 10:38, 13:52, 15:8, 16:6, 19:2, 20:23, 28, 21:11; Romans 14:17, 15:13, 1 Corinthians 2:13). Everyone understood that the church meetings were to be run by the Holy Spirit and they devoted themselves to the activity of His manifestation in their meetings (1 Corinthians 12:7; Acts 2:4, 20:28; John 16:12-13). As a result, there were plenty of examples of men and women full of the gifts of the Holy Spirit who modeled Christian living.
Today if we will hunger for the same demonstration of the Spirit of God and give ourselves over to contend for the faith that was once delivered unto the church we will once again see the same awesome display of the Holy Spirit presiding over our meetings (Jude 1:3). With such devotion our children will grow up in the presence of the mighty display of the power of God and will themselves be full of the Spirit.
The gift of prophecy - like all of the other gifts - operates according to the proportion of faith that has been imparted by the grace of God (Romans 12:6; 1 Corinthians 12:10, 14:6, 31; Joel 2:28; Acts 2:17). Unfortunately, if we fail to recognize that these things are available to us then there will be no witness of them and the expectation and hunger to function in this realm will be absent. If there is no expectation of these gifts and blessings of God then there will be no development of our faith for them. Let us till up the fallow ground that lies barren in the house of God and plant the seeds of the word of God that they may spring up full of the wonderful manifestations of the Holy Spirit and His power. For without the display of the power of the Holy Spirit the church remains unseen.
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/26/07
Matthew 8:10 - When Jesus heard him he was amazed and said to those who followed truly I tell you I have not found so great of faith in Israel.
The first definition of faith was provided by Jesus in Matthew 8:10. It was defined by the attitude and confidence of a Roman Centurion. The centurion was in such awe of Jesus that even though Jesus was willing to come to his house he did not feel worthy. Perhaps one of the advantages that this man had was his ability to recognize authority. Recognizing the authority that Jesus had, His word was all he needed.
The authority of the word and our willingness to accept it and act on it is a theme that runs throughout the scripture. To move in such faith we must be struck with the awesomeness of God who has the authority to do anything He chooses. We must hear His word telling us that He cares for us and that He will do whatever we ask. Then we must call it done (Mark 11:24; Acts 10:43; Galatians 3:2; Romans 4:17, 20-21: 2 Corinthians 1:20). The centurion was not of the household of faith and had no rights to the covenant and promises. He was a man of a pagan race who did not know God and Jesus was sent to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. Yet, because of the centurion's faith, he had access into the realms of the Kingdom and his petition was immediately granted.
One of the advantages that this man had over many in Israel was that he was not confused with all of the doctrinal questions as to whether or not Jesus was the Messiah. He being a man who was exposed to great commanders and leaders was able to recognize authority and greatness. Out of concern for his servant, he probably made up his mind that he would go and investigate this man of whom he had heard so many rumors. When he had arrived and saw the multitudes gather together as Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount he was struck by the words which Jesus spoke (Matthew 5-7). Then as he witnessed the man with Leprosy cured instantaneously by the command of Jesus, he knew that this was a man who had authority. He stepped forward overwhelmed by the awesome display of the power of God in the life of Jesus and by a simple request revealed what faith truly is.
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Matthew 8:10 - When Jesus heard him he was amazed and said to those who followed truly I tell you I have not found so great of faith in Israel.
The first definition of faith was provided by Jesus in Matthew 8:10. It was defined by the attitude and confidence of a Roman Centurion. The centurion was in such awe of Jesus that even though Jesus was willing to come to his house he did not feel worthy. Perhaps one of the advantages that this man had was his ability to recognize authority. Recognizing the authority that Jesus had, His word was all he needed.
The authority of the word and our willingness to accept it and act on it is a theme that runs throughout the scripture. To move in such faith we must be struck with the awesomeness of God who has the authority to do anything He chooses. We must hear His word telling us that He cares for us and that He will do whatever we ask. Then we must call it done (Mark 11:24; Acts 10:43; Galatians 3:2; Romans 4:17, 20-21: 2 Corinthians 1:20). The centurion was not of the household of faith and had no rights to the covenant and promises. He was a man of a pagan race who did not know God and Jesus was sent to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. Yet, because of the centurion's faith, he had access into the realms of the Kingdom and his petition was immediately granted.
One of the advantages that this man had over many in Israel was that he was not confused with all of the doctrinal questions as to whether or not Jesus was the Messiah. He being a man who was exposed to great commanders and leaders was able to recognize authority and greatness. Out of concern for his servant, he probably made up his mind that he would go and investigate this man of whom he had heard so many rumors. When he had arrived and saw the multitudes gather together as Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount he was struck by the words which Jesus spoke (Matthew 5-7). Then as he witnessed the man with Leprosy cured instantaneously by the command of Jesus, he knew that this was a man who had authority. He stepped forward overwhelmed by the awesome display of the power of God in the life of Jesus and by a simple request revealed what faith truly is.
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Friday, May 25, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/25/07
John 9:35 - Jesus heard that they threw him out and finding him, He said to him, "Do you believe in the Son of Man?"
Here is yet another example of a person being healed where it had nothing to do with the individual's faith. In fact, this time Jesus did not even ask the person if they wanted to be healed. Just as the crippled man who laid at the pool of Bethesda in John 5, this man had no idea who Jesus was. When Jesus asked him if He believed in the Son of man he said, "who is he sir that I may believe in Him?"
John does not use the Greek noun for faith (pistin) in his Gospel. Instead he uses the word for believe (pisteuw). In fact, of the 248 occurrences of this word in the New Testament it is found 96 times in the Gospel of John. We learn in the Gospel of John that all one has to do is simply believe and they are given authority to be sons of God (John 1:12). Therefore, by believing, every dimension of grace is supplied to the believer to function in the benefits and blessings of the Kingdom of God (John 1:16; John 17:22).
In the Bible, to believe means to be convinced of something that is told you (John 2:11; Matthew 27:42). It carries the meaning of obeying what was spoken (Matthew 21:32; Acts 8:12; 1 John 4:1). It also means to entrust yourself to the care of God (Luke 16:11; John 2:24; Mark 16:13; Acts 27:25). It conveys the meaning of confidence in God wherein we are convinced that God will do what He has said He will do (John 14:1; Mark 5:36; Luke 8:50; 2 Corinthians 4:13).
The blind man shows us how easy it is to believe. He simply responded to Jesus by saying, "I believe" and then fell down and worshipped Jesus. Salvation comes to us in the same way. It is by the faith of Jesus at work in our life because we were simply willing to believe what God said in His word. As we obey His word (no matter how difficult things become) and do whatever God asks us to do, our faith matures and becomes strong insomuch that whatever we ask God He will do (John 15:16, 14:13-14, 16:23). The disciples show us an amazing example of this. Although they believed and were obeying the word of the Lord, they found a limitation to their faith. They were unable to cast a demon out of a young boy. When they asked Jesus why they were unable to cast out the demon, He told them because of their unbelief (Matthew 17:20). Thus, we are able to witness how that God's saints can believe in some areas but find themselves in unbelief in other areas. Therefore, the cry of this boy's father must also be the cry of our hearts, "Lord I believe; help thou my unbelief" (Mark 9:24).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 9:35 - Jesus heard that they threw him out and finding him, He said to him, "Do you believe in the Son of Man?"
Here is yet another example of a person being healed where it had nothing to do with the individual's faith. In fact, this time Jesus did not even ask the person if they wanted to be healed. Just as the crippled man who laid at the pool of Bethesda in John 5, this man had no idea who Jesus was. When Jesus asked him if He believed in the Son of man he said, "who is he sir that I may believe in Him?"
John does not use the Greek noun for faith (pistin) in his Gospel. Instead he uses the word for believe (pisteuw). In fact, of the 248 occurrences of this word in the New Testament it is found 96 times in the Gospel of John. We learn in the Gospel of John that all one has to do is simply believe and they are given authority to be sons of God (John 1:12). Therefore, by believing, every dimension of grace is supplied to the believer to function in the benefits and blessings of the Kingdom of God (John 1:16; John 17:22).
In the Bible, to believe means to be convinced of something that is told you (John 2:11; Matthew 27:42). It carries the meaning of obeying what was spoken (Matthew 21:32; Acts 8:12; 1 John 4:1). It also means to entrust yourself to the care of God (Luke 16:11; John 2:24; Mark 16:13; Acts 27:25). It conveys the meaning of confidence in God wherein we are convinced that God will do what He has said He will do (John 14:1; Mark 5:36; Luke 8:50; 2 Corinthians 4:13).
The blind man shows us how easy it is to believe. He simply responded to Jesus by saying, "I believe" and then fell down and worshipped Jesus. Salvation comes to us in the same way. It is by the faith of Jesus at work in our life because we were simply willing to believe what God said in His word. As we obey His word (no matter how difficult things become) and do whatever God asks us to do, our faith matures and becomes strong insomuch that whatever we ask God He will do (John 15:16, 14:13-14, 16:23). The disciples show us an amazing example of this. Although they believed and were obeying the word of the Lord, they found a limitation to their faith. They were unable to cast a demon out of a young boy. When they asked Jesus why they were unable to cast out the demon, He told them because of their unbelief (Matthew 17:20). Thus, we are able to witness how that God's saints can believe in some areas but find themselves in unbelief in other areas. Therefore, the cry of this boy's father must also be the cry of our hearts, "Lord I believe; help thou my unbelief" (Mark 9:24).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/24/07
John 5:8 - Jesus said to him, Rise up and take up your cot and walk.
Jesus commands the man who has been a cripple to do something that he was totally unable to do. This miracle did not take place because of the faith that this crippled man had in Jesus because he did not even know who Jesus was. The miracle happened first and foremost by the faith of Jesus and the power and authority that He had in His words. The crippled man simply had to be willing to obey the command that was given to him. The nature of this man was very pathetic. When he was asked by Jesus if he wanted to be healed he responded by telling Jesus of his helpless situation. It would have been easy for this man to sink down into despair when he was commanded by Jesus to do something that was absolutely impossible for him to do but instead he obeyed the word of the stranger and was immediately cured!
It was not unlike Jesus to ask someone to do something that was impossible for them to do in order to participate in the miracle that God had for them. He commanded the paralytic to do the exact same thing in Mark 2:1-12. He told the man with the withered hand to do that which was impossible for him to do (Matthew 12:13). When the multitudes were hungry, he told the disciples to feed them (Matthew 14:16). As we interact with Jesus and fellowship with the Holy Spirit a confidence and boldness will take over and we will learn to do the impossible. We will find ourselves overwhelmed with an assurance that the things written in the Word of God are the directions given to us by God and we will find the strength to do what we thought was impossible (Mark 9:23; 2 Chronicles 20:20; Matthew 19:26).
There is a very small step between the ordinary and the miraculous and that is the step of faith (Mark 11:22, 9:23; Matthew 17:20, 21:21-22; John 11:40). Faith is not a hope but a direction given to us by the Word of God (Romans 10:17, 10:8; Hebrews 4:2; Romans 4:17-18). We must move from the realm of the impersonal to a personal interaction with God as we read and hear His word being spoken. As we do, the faith that has been given to us will grow and increase and we will find ourselves participating with God in all the realms of His glorious salvation. Jesus our Savior wants you to hear Him speak directly to the needs that you have in your life right now. Hear His voice telling you to do what you could not do before.
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 5:8 - Jesus said to him, Rise up and take up your cot and walk.
Jesus commands the man who has been a cripple to do something that he was totally unable to do. This miracle did not take place because of the faith that this crippled man had in Jesus because he did not even know who Jesus was. The miracle happened first and foremost by the faith of Jesus and the power and authority that He had in His words. The crippled man simply had to be willing to obey the command that was given to him. The nature of this man was very pathetic. When he was asked by Jesus if he wanted to be healed he responded by telling Jesus of his helpless situation. It would have been easy for this man to sink down into despair when he was commanded by Jesus to do something that was absolutely impossible for him to do but instead he obeyed the word of the stranger and was immediately cured!
It was not unlike Jesus to ask someone to do something that was impossible for them to do in order to participate in the miracle that God had for them. He commanded the paralytic to do the exact same thing in Mark 2:1-12. He told the man with the withered hand to do that which was impossible for him to do (Matthew 12:13). When the multitudes were hungry, he told the disciples to feed them (Matthew 14:16). As we interact with Jesus and fellowship with the Holy Spirit a confidence and boldness will take over and we will learn to do the impossible. We will find ourselves overwhelmed with an assurance that the things written in the Word of God are the directions given to us by God and we will find the strength to do what we thought was impossible (Mark 9:23; 2 Chronicles 20:20; Matthew 19:26).
There is a very small step between the ordinary and the miraculous and that is the step of faith (Mark 11:22, 9:23; Matthew 17:20, 21:21-22; John 11:40). Faith is not a hope but a direction given to us by the Word of God (Romans 10:17, 10:8; Hebrews 4:2; Romans 4:17-18). We must move from the realm of the impersonal to a personal interaction with God as we read and hear His word being spoken. As we do, the faith that has been given to us will grow and increase and we will find ourselves participating with God in all the realms of His glorious salvation. Jesus our Savior wants you to hear Him speak directly to the needs that you have in your life right now. Hear His voice telling you to do what you could not do before.
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/23/07
Mark 7:27 - Jesus said to her, "Let the children be filled first: for it is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs."
One of the most radical statements of Jesus produced one of the most radical displays of faith in the New Testament. One thing is for certain: this Gentile woman of Syropheonicia had nothing in her theology that dissuaded her from believing in miracles. Her daughter was demon possessed, she was desperate, and Jesus was the man of miracles.
Jesus made a radical statement about who the miracles belong to when He said, "Let the children be fed first; for it is not right to take the children's food and throw it to the dogs" (Matthew 15:26). Although this comment at first glance was very insulting, it reveals to us that miracles are first and foremost something very sacred and that they belong to the children of the Kingdom (Matthew 7:6). Miracles are as necessary as bread for us to fulfill the will of the Father, and they are supplied to us by God with the same abundance.
Bread was the common and essential food of the east. In the Bible, bread represents food in general as being foremost in human needs (Matthew 6:11; Psalms 105:16; Genesis 31:54; 2 Thessalonians 3:12; Mark 3:20). It was something that no father would refuse to give to his children (Matthew 7:9; Luke 11:11). The miracle supply of daily bread to the children of Israel was called the bread of heaven (Exodus 16:4; Psalms 77:24; 104:14-15; Neh 9:15). Bread always played a central role in worship through the Mencha Offering (Leviticus 7:13; Exodus 29:2; Leviticus 23:15-20). In the scripture, to eat someone's bread meant that you were supported by them (2 Samuel 9:7, 10). In the Old Testament, there were 12 loaves of bread called the Bread of His Presence (Exodus 25:30; Leviticus 24:5-9). These loaves represented the fellowship that existed between God and Israel and, more specifically, His daily provision of life that was granted to them by His presence (Genesis 14:18; Exodus 12:17).
Bread also represents the divine spiritual nourishment that men receive from heaven through Christ Jesus (John 6:31-58). Jesus is the one who is represented as both the bread of heaven and the bread of life (John 6:31, 35, 41; Mark 14:22). Jesus relates the breaking of His body to the breaking of bread which will provide healing and life to the spirit, soul, and body of all who will believe (Matthew 26:26; 1 Peter 2:24). A common theological understanding of bread in both the Old And New Testament is that it is a gift from God (Isaiah 30:23). What Jesus was expressing as the children's bread may also be understood as the daily bread of Matthew 6:11. Although one may view the statement "the children's bread" as symbolical and "daily bread" as literal, they may both be rightly understood as the essential and daily provision from God given to provide for the needs of His children. Today, Jesus sits as the head of the household; He has taken the bread of His body and broken it to distribute to all who will receive of the miracles of salvation. Therefore, expect a miracle as God's daily provision provided to you in Christ Jesus.
Expect a Miracle!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Mark 7:27 - Jesus said to her, "Let the children be filled first: for it is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs."
One of the most radical statements of Jesus produced one of the most radical displays of faith in the New Testament. One thing is for certain: this Gentile woman of Syropheonicia had nothing in her theology that dissuaded her from believing in miracles. Her daughter was demon possessed, she was desperate, and Jesus was the man of miracles.
Jesus made a radical statement about who the miracles belong to when He said, "Let the children be fed first; for it is not right to take the children's food and throw it to the dogs" (Matthew 15:26). Although this comment at first glance was very insulting, it reveals to us that miracles are first and foremost something very sacred and that they belong to the children of the Kingdom (Matthew 7:6). Miracles are as necessary as bread for us to fulfill the will of the Father, and they are supplied to us by God with the same abundance.
Bread was the common and essential food of the east. In the Bible, bread represents food in general as being foremost in human needs (Matthew 6:11; Psalms 105:16; Genesis 31:54; 2 Thessalonians 3:12; Mark 3:20). It was something that no father would refuse to give to his children (Matthew 7:9; Luke 11:11). The miracle supply of daily bread to the children of Israel was called the bread of heaven (Exodus 16:4; Psalms 77:24; 104:14-15; Neh 9:15). Bread always played a central role in worship through the Mencha Offering (Leviticus 7:13; Exodus 29:2; Leviticus 23:15-20). In the scripture, to eat someone's bread meant that you were supported by them (2 Samuel 9:7, 10). In the Old Testament, there were 12 loaves of bread called the Bread of His Presence (Exodus 25:30; Leviticus 24:5-9). These loaves represented the fellowship that existed between God and Israel and, more specifically, His daily provision of life that was granted to them by His presence (Genesis 14:18; Exodus 12:17).
Bread also represents the divine spiritual nourishment that men receive from heaven through Christ Jesus (John 6:31-58). Jesus is the one who is represented as both the bread of heaven and the bread of life (John 6:31, 35, 41; Mark 14:22). Jesus relates the breaking of His body to the breaking of bread which will provide healing and life to the spirit, soul, and body of all who will believe (Matthew 26:26; 1 Peter 2:24). A common theological understanding of bread in both the Old And New Testament is that it is a gift from God (Isaiah 30:23). What Jesus was expressing as the children's bread may also be understood as the daily bread of Matthew 6:11. Although one may view the statement "the children's bread" as symbolical and "daily bread" as literal, they may both be rightly understood as the essential and daily provision from God given to provide for the needs of His children. Today, Jesus sits as the head of the household; He has taken the bread of His body and broken it to distribute to all who will receive of the miracles of salvation. Therefore, expect a miracle as God's daily provision provided to you in Christ Jesus.
Expect a Miracle!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/22/07
John 15:16 - You have not chosen me but I have chosen you. And I appointed you that you should go and bring forth fruit and that your fruit should remain; so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, He will give it to you.
One of the many wonderful statements of the relationship that God has called us into is made in this passage. Jesus revealed to us that we are appointed unto a place in God that whatever we ask the Father in His name it will be given to us (John 14:13, 14; 15:7; 16:23, 24; Matthew 18:19; 21:22; Mark 11:24; Luke 11:10; James 1:6; 1 John 3:22; 5:14, 15). In saying this, Jesus opened the door to all of us to live every day in the miracle realm of God.
What kinds of things should we ask for? We should ask for everything that will glorify God. Every promise made to us by God in the scripture should be asked for (2 Corinthians 1:20; Psalms 103:2-4). We should take hold of the relationship that He has given to us as His friends and know with certainty that the things that we have asked Him for are ours. God is not glorified if we are living in sin, sickness, disease, and poverty. In the Old Testament God's people were called to live in the blessings of the Kingdom of God, and in the New Testament we are called to live in an even greater blessing of the Kingdom (Hebrews 8:6; 2 Corinthians 3:8,11; 2 Corinthians 1:20; Ephesians 1:2; Deuteronomy 15:6).
We should ask for the lost for our inheritance and the uttermost parts of the earth for our possession (Psalms 2:8). We should ask Father to send laborers into the harvest (Luke 10:2). We should ask God to show us great and mighty things that we have not known (Jeremiah 33:3). We should ask for the Holy Spirit and all of His gifts to be fully manifested in our lives so that the world around us will encounter the power of God (Luke 11:13; 1 Corinthians 14:1; Colossians 1:9; 2 Thessalonians 1:11; Acts 8:6). We should ask that our businesses prosper so that He will be glorified through the success of them (Deuteronomy 15:10; 28:12; 29:9; 2 Corinthians 9:8; Proverbs 13:22; Joshua 1:7; 1 Kings 2:3; Psalms 1:3; 3 John 1:2). We should ask Him to give us power to make wealth so that we can have a greater influence among men socially and politically (1 Chronicles 4:10; Deuteronomy 8:18; Proverbs 31:23).
Once we have asked we must be willing to step out and move in faith realizing that God is working with us to establish His covenant (Deuteronomy 8:18; 2 Chronicles 1:12; Psalms 112:3). Every promise of God will come to us by a miracle work of God. Miracles are simply God at work. A miracle takes place when God reaches in with His hand to do those impossible things that we have asked Him to do. When miracles take place, we stand back and watch as God intervenes to bless us and make impossible things work. However, we must realize that the miracle of the Red Sea would have never taken place if Israel had not been willing to step out in faith and walk into that difficult situation. The impossible place became the opportunity for God to show forth His mighty power and love for His people. Just as it was for Israel, it will also take the intervention of God if we are to have the things that God has appointed us to. Will you begin to ask God for His promises to be fully realized in your life? Will you allow Him to take you to the places of impossibility so that you can come to know that your Friend will not let you down? (Romans 4:13-14; Matthew 17:20; 19:16; 10:27; Luke 1:37) God wants to teach us that we can trust Him and that not one of His promises will fail us.
Expect a Miracle!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 15:16 - You have not chosen me but I have chosen you. And I appointed you that you should go and bring forth fruit and that your fruit should remain; so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, He will give it to you.
One of the many wonderful statements of the relationship that God has called us into is made in this passage. Jesus revealed to us that we are appointed unto a place in God that whatever we ask the Father in His name it will be given to us (John 14:13, 14; 15:7; 16:23, 24; Matthew 18:19; 21:22; Mark 11:24; Luke 11:10; James 1:6; 1 John 3:22; 5:14, 15). In saying this, Jesus opened the door to all of us to live every day in the miracle realm of God.
What kinds of things should we ask for? We should ask for everything that will glorify God. Every promise made to us by God in the scripture should be asked for (2 Corinthians 1:20; Psalms 103:2-4). We should take hold of the relationship that He has given to us as His friends and know with certainty that the things that we have asked Him for are ours. God is not glorified if we are living in sin, sickness, disease, and poverty. In the Old Testament God's people were called to live in the blessings of the Kingdom of God, and in the New Testament we are called to live in an even greater blessing of the Kingdom (Hebrews 8:6; 2 Corinthians 3:8,11; 2 Corinthians 1:20; Ephesians 1:2; Deuteronomy 15:6).
We should ask for the lost for our inheritance and the uttermost parts of the earth for our possession (Psalms 2:8). We should ask Father to send laborers into the harvest (Luke 10:2). We should ask God to show us great and mighty things that we have not known (Jeremiah 33:3). We should ask for the Holy Spirit and all of His gifts to be fully manifested in our lives so that the world around us will encounter the power of God (Luke 11:13; 1 Corinthians 14:1; Colossians 1:9; 2 Thessalonians 1:11; Acts 8:6). We should ask that our businesses prosper so that He will be glorified through the success of them (Deuteronomy 15:10; 28:12; 29:9; 2 Corinthians 9:8; Proverbs 13:22; Joshua 1:7; 1 Kings 2:3; Psalms 1:3; 3 John 1:2). We should ask Him to give us power to make wealth so that we can have a greater influence among men socially and politically (1 Chronicles 4:10; Deuteronomy 8:18; Proverbs 31:23).
Once we have asked we must be willing to step out and move in faith realizing that God is working with us to establish His covenant (Deuteronomy 8:18; 2 Chronicles 1:12; Psalms 112:3). Every promise of God will come to us by a miracle work of God. Miracles are simply God at work. A miracle takes place when God reaches in with His hand to do those impossible things that we have asked Him to do. When miracles take place, we stand back and watch as God intervenes to bless us and make impossible things work. However, we must realize that the miracle of the Red Sea would have never taken place if Israel had not been willing to step out in faith and walk into that difficult situation. The impossible place became the opportunity for God to show forth His mighty power and love for His people. Just as it was for Israel, it will also take the intervention of God if we are to have the things that God has appointed us to. Will you begin to ask God for His promises to be fully realized in your life? Will you allow Him to take you to the places of impossibility so that you can come to know that your Friend will not let you down? (Romans 4:13-14; Matthew 17:20; 19:16; 10:27; Luke 1:37) God wants to teach us that we can trust Him and that not one of His promises will fail us.
Expect a Miracle!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Monday, May 21, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/21/07
John 2:11 - This Jesus did as the beginning of his signs in Cana of Galilee and manifested His glory, and His disciples believed on Him.
John's favorite word for the works of Jesus was signs (semeion), rather than wonders (teras) or powers (dunamus), which primarily convey the same message. In Acts 2:22 the ministry of Jesus was describes as one of mighty works (dunamis), wonders (teras), and signs (semeion). Signs are something that should regularly be seen among the people of God; for as one theologian commented, "signs are the fingerprints of God." Signs (semeion) are commonly translated miracles and these miracles are a revelation that the Kingdom of God has come (Matthew 12:28). They are a part of the gospel because the gospel is the good news of deliverance.
The only way that people can be delivered from sin, sickness, disease, and sufferings is through a miracle (John 6:2; 12:17-18; Mark 16:17; Matthew 12:28; Matthew 4:23-24; 8:16; 9:35; 12:15; 14:14; 15:30; 19:2; John 20:30). Signs are done to reveal the glory of Jesus (John 2:11; 3:2; John 5:20). Through the ministry of signs, many are enabled to believe the gospel (John 2:11,23; 4:48,53; 6:2,14; 7:31; 9:16,35; 12:18; Acts 8:6; 9:35, 42). Yet signs were not done (and should not be done) for the skeptics and for those who attempted to manipulate Jesus (Luke 23:8; Matthew 4:1-11; Mark 8:11-12; Matthew 16:1-4, 12:39; Luke 11:16; John 6:30). Signs are an important part of the ministry of the church and the testimony of the believers (Mark 16:17,20; Luke 10:17-19; 1 Corinthians 12:4,28; Acts 2:43; 5:12; 6:8; 8:6,13; 14:3; 15:12; John 14:12). Signs were also an important dimension of the revelation of God in the Old Testament as well (Exodus 4:8,9,17,28,30; 7:3; 10:1,2; 14:11; 16:15; 17:6; Deuteronomy 4:34; 6:22; 7:19; 8:15; 26:8; Psalms 78:24, 43). Moses was so involved in the miracles of God that he stood before a rock wall and commanded water come out. Joshua, who was privileged to live in the company of those who were in expectation of miracles, commanded the sun and the moon to stand still and they obeyed him. Let us say that we are in expectation of a miracle every day and then engage in the miracles by stepping out with the actions of faith.
Expect a Miracle Today!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 2:11 - This Jesus did as the beginning of his signs in Cana of Galilee and manifested His glory, and His disciples believed on Him.
John's favorite word for the works of Jesus was signs (semeion), rather than wonders (teras) or powers (dunamus), which primarily convey the same message. In Acts 2:22 the ministry of Jesus was describes as one of mighty works (dunamis), wonders (teras), and signs (semeion). Signs are something that should regularly be seen among the people of God; for as one theologian commented, "signs are the fingerprints of God." Signs (semeion) are commonly translated miracles and these miracles are a revelation that the Kingdom of God has come (Matthew 12:28). They are a part of the gospel because the gospel is the good news of deliverance.
The only way that people can be delivered from sin, sickness, disease, and sufferings is through a miracle (John 6:2; 12:17-18; Mark 16:17; Matthew 12:28; Matthew 4:23-24; 8:16; 9:35; 12:15; 14:14; 15:30; 19:2; John 20:30). Signs are done to reveal the glory of Jesus (John 2:11; 3:2; John 5:20). Through the ministry of signs, many are enabled to believe the gospel (John 2:11,23; 4:48,53; 6:2,14; 7:31; 9:16,35; 12:18; Acts 8:6; 9:35, 42). Yet signs were not done (and should not be done) for the skeptics and for those who attempted to manipulate Jesus (Luke 23:8; Matthew 4:1-11; Mark 8:11-12; Matthew 16:1-4, 12:39; Luke 11:16; John 6:30). Signs are an important part of the ministry of the church and the testimony of the believers (Mark 16:17,20; Luke 10:17-19; 1 Corinthians 12:4,28; Acts 2:43; 5:12; 6:8; 8:6,13; 14:3; 15:12; John 14:12). Signs were also an important dimension of the revelation of God in the Old Testament as well (Exodus 4:8,9,17,28,30; 7:3; 10:1,2; 14:11; 16:15; 17:6; Deuteronomy 4:34; 6:22; 7:19; 8:15; 26:8; Psalms 78:24, 43). Moses was so involved in the miracles of God that he stood before a rock wall and commanded water come out. Joshua, who was privileged to live in the company of those who were in expectation of miracles, commanded the sun and the moon to stand still and they obeyed him. Let us say that we are in expectation of a miracle every day and then engage in the miracles by stepping out with the actions of faith.
Expect a Miracle Today!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/19/07
John 4:24 - God is the Spirit and those who worship Him by necessity worship Him in Spirit and Truth.
Although, we could just consider truth as sincerity of the heart it goes far beyond that. Certainly, sincerity of the heart is part of what God establishes in our life through the washing or regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit; for God desires truth in the inward parts and in the hidden parts He will make us to know wisdom (Titus 3:5; Psalms 51:6). Yet what far surpasses sincerity and purity of heart is the word of God. Although Jesus is the truth the way and the life we know that He established beyond all question the superiority of the word of God - which is the word of truth (Titus 3:5; Psalms 51:6). Yet, what far surpasses sincerity and purity of heart is the word of God. Although Jesus is the truth the way and the life we know that He established beyond all question the superiority of the word of God, which is the word of truth (John 17:17; Ephesians 1:13; Colossians 1:15; Malachi 2:6; John 1:17; 6:63; 12:47-48). It has always been God's desire that His people learn to live by the word so He taught Israel that, "man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God" (Deuteronomy 8:3; Luke 4:4). He taught Joshua to not let the word depart out of his mouth but to meditate on it both day and night that he might observe to do it; for then he would make his way prosperous and have good success (Joshua 1:8).
If we are going to worship God in the way that He has desired, then we are going to do it as the word of God describes. Our attitude before Him must be one of confidence and assurance according to his exceeding great and precious promises (2 Peter 1:4; Ephesians 3:12; Hebrews 10:35). We have been born of the word of God and He has written His word upon the tables of our heart so that we will do them (2 Corinthians 3:3; Hebrews 8:10; 10:6). The word of God has brought faith into our hearts so that we might please Him (Hebrews 11:6). The Holy Spirit has come to teach us the word of God and to lead us and guide us into all the truth of His word (John 16:13). By the word of God we are set free from every lie that would attempt to ensnare us and hold us back from the greatness of this life in Christ Jesus (John 8:32; 2 Corinthians 6:7; Acts 20:32; Romans 10:8; 1 Thessalonians 2:13).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 4:24 - God is the Spirit and those who worship Him by necessity worship Him in Spirit and Truth.
Although, we could just consider truth as sincerity of the heart it goes far beyond that. Certainly, sincerity of the heart is part of what God establishes in our life through the washing or regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit; for God desires truth in the inward parts and in the hidden parts He will make us to know wisdom (Titus 3:5; Psalms 51:6). Yet what far surpasses sincerity and purity of heart is the word of God. Although Jesus is the truth the way and the life we know that He established beyond all question the superiority of the word of God - which is the word of truth (Titus 3:5; Psalms 51:6). Yet, what far surpasses sincerity and purity of heart is the word of God. Although Jesus is the truth the way and the life we know that He established beyond all question the superiority of the word of God, which is the word of truth (John 17:17; Ephesians 1:13; Colossians 1:15; Malachi 2:6; John 1:17; 6:63; 12:47-48). It has always been God's desire that His people learn to live by the word so He taught Israel that, "man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God" (Deuteronomy 8:3; Luke 4:4). He taught Joshua to not let the word depart out of his mouth but to meditate on it both day and night that he might observe to do it; for then he would make his way prosperous and have good success (Joshua 1:8).
If we are going to worship God in the way that He has desired, then we are going to do it as the word of God describes. Our attitude before Him must be one of confidence and assurance according to his exceeding great and precious promises (2 Peter 1:4; Ephesians 3:12; Hebrews 10:35). We have been born of the word of God and He has written His word upon the tables of our heart so that we will do them (2 Corinthians 3:3; Hebrews 8:10; 10:6). The word of God has brought faith into our hearts so that we might please Him (Hebrews 11:6). The Holy Spirit has come to teach us the word of God and to lead us and guide us into all the truth of His word (John 16:13). By the word of God we are set free from every lie that would attempt to ensnare us and hold us back from the greatness of this life in Christ Jesus (John 8:32; 2 Corinthians 6:7; Acts 20:32; Romans 10:8; 1 Thessalonians 2:13).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Friday, May 18, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/18/07
John 4:42 - And they said to the woman, it is no longer because of what you have said that we believe, for we ourselves hear and we have seen that this is truly the Savior of the world, the Christ.
The sincere faith that was expressed by these Samaritans was simply amazing. Although, they were kinsmen to the Jews they became despised by them because of their intermarriage with Gentiles (John 4:9; 8:48). Yet how is it that they were able to recognize the Savior when those who should have recognized Him could not? Could it be that the Jews became so ensnared by their own self confidence and pride that they had lost their sense of truth? The Samaritans seemed to have an ability to be sensitive to the witness of the Holy Spirit that was flowing forth from Jesus that those of the nation of Israel were incapable of.
It did not take a lengthy discussion and lots of proofs to convince the Samaritans. When they encountered the love and acceptance that Jesus showed these rejected people they were convinced that this is truly the Savior of the world. Surely, they had heard that a great prophet was traveling around the neighboring cities of Judea and Galilee, who some claimed was indeed the Messiah but when they saw Him in His love they were convinced that the Savior had truly come. Somehow in all of their ignorance they understood what even the disciples failed to grasp, that when the Messiah came He would not only be the Savior of the Jewish nation but of the whole world. In fact, this is the only time in the Gospels that Jesus, is called Savior by men.
The only other time that Jesus is called Savior in the Gospels was in the salutation of the angels in Luke 2:11. Even though His very name means Savior, Yehoshua (YHWH our Savior) it was only the Samaritans who had the revelation to utter it. Does God desire to communicate a profound revelation to us by the faith of the Centurion and the Syrophenician woman along with the revelation of the Samaritans (Matthew 8:5; Mark 7:26)? By these examples I believe that the Lord wants us to understand how blinded and insensitive to the Holy Spirit our own self confidence and pride makes us. If we will simply believe the good news and come to adore Jesus having no confidence in our own ability then we will find the realms of glory that we have been invited to (Philippians 3:3; John 15:5; Isaiah 66:1-2; 1 Peter 5:5).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 4:42 - And they said to the woman, it is no longer because of what you have said that we believe, for we ourselves hear and we have seen that this is truly the Savior of the world, the Christ.
The sincere faith that was expressed by these Samaritans was simply amazing. Although, they were kinsmen to the Jews they became despised by them because of their intermarriage with Gentiles (John 4:9; 8:48). Yet how is it that they were able to recognize the Savior when those who should have recognized Him could not? Could it be that the Jews became so ensnared by their own self confidence and pride that they had lost their sense of truth? The Samaritans seemed to have an ability to be sensitive to the witness of the Holy Spirit that was flowing forth from Jesus that those of the nation of Israel were incapable of.
It did not take a lengthy discussion and lots of proofs to convince the Samaritans. When they encountered the love and acceptance that Jesus showed these rejected people they were convinced that this is truly the Savior of the world. Surely, they had heard that a great prophet was traveling around the neighboring cities of Judea and Galilee, who some claimed was indeed the Messiah but when they saw Him in His love they were convinced that the Savior had truly come. Somehow in all of their ignorance they understood what even the disciples failed to grasp, that when the Messiah came He would not only be the Savior of the Jewish nation but of the whole world. In fact, this is the only time in the Gospels that Jesus, is called Savior by men.
The only other time that Jesus is called Savior in the Gospels was in the salutation of the angels in Luke 2:11. Even though His very name means Savior, Yehoshua (YHWH our Savior) it was only the Samaritans who had the revelation to utter it. Does God desire to communicate a profound revelation to us by the faith of the Centurion and the Syrophenician woman along with the revelation of the Samaritans (Matthew 8:5; Mark 7:26)? By these examples I believe that the Lord wants us to understand how blinded and insensitive to the Holy Spirit our own self confidence and pride makes us. If we will simply believe the good news and come to adore Jesus having no confidence in our own ability then we will find the realms of glory that we have been invited to (Philippians 3:3; John 15:5; Isaiah 66:1-2; 1 Peter 5:5).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/17/07
John 4:10 - Jesus replied and said to her, If you knew about the gift of God and who it is that is saying to you, Give me a drink, you would have asked him and he would give you living water.
Although the Samaritan woman does not seem to understand what Jesus means by living water, the symbolism is not foreign to scripture. God referred to Himself as the fountain of living water (Jeremiah 2:13; 17:13). He also made it known by the prophet Isaiah that there were wells of salvation from which men could draw out water (Isaiah 12:3). Jesus identifies Himself as the well or the fountain from where this water is supplied (John 7:37-39; Exodus 17:6; Psalms 78:15; 105:14; 1 Corinthians 10:4). The water of life is available to anyone who ask, even to a Samaritan woman who is steeped in sin. As a result of drinking the living water the one who drinks also becomes a fountain from where the living water springs up.
The living water in the heart of those who receive becomes a fountain springing up and a river flowing forth, forever supplying a continual flow of the Spirit so that those who have it will never thirst for that which cannot satisfy ever again (John 4:10-14; 7:37-39). The living water that Jesus is referring to is the pouring forth of the Holy Spirit (Isaiah 44:3; Joel 2:28; John 7:37-39; Luke 24:49; Acts 2:1-4; Matthew 3:11;). The gift of God, which is the living water is shown to be the gift of the Holy Spirit several times in both the Old and the New Testament (John 7:37-39; Isaiah 44:3; Acts 2:38; 8:20; 10:45; 11:17; 2 Timothy 1:6). It is the Holy Spirit that brings to us the new birth and function in our lives to bring forth all that the pleasures and fruits of the nature of God in our lives (John 3:5; Psalms 36:8; 46:4; Galatians 5:22; 1 John 3:24; Romans 14:17; 2 Peter 1:3-4; Titus 3:5; Romans 8:2; 1 Corinthians 2:12; 2 Corinthians 5:17-18; Ezekiel 36:26-27). If we hunger and thirst after righteousness God will supply us with His Spirit so that the righteousness, peace and joy of the Kingdom of God fills us to overflowing (Isaiah 55:1; Matthew 5:6; John 4:14; John 6:35; John 7:37-39; Romans 14:17; Matthew 6:33; John 3:5).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 4:10 - Jesus replied and said to her, If you knew about the gift of God and who it is that is saying to you, Give me a drink, you would have asked him and he would give you living water.
Although the Samaritan woman does not seem to understand what Jesus means by living water, the symbolism is not foreign to scripture. God referred to Himself as the fountain of living water (Jeremiah 2:13; 17:13). He also made it known by the prophet Isaiah that there were wells of salvation from which men could draw out water (Isaiah 12:3). Jesus identifies Himself as the well or the fountain from where this water is supplied (John 7:37-39; Exodus 17:6; Psalms 78:15; 105:14; 1 Corinthians 10:4). The water of life is available to anyone who ask, even to a Samaritan woman who is steeped in sin. As a result of drinking the living water the one who drinks also becomes a fountain from where the living water springs up.
The living water in the heart of those who receive becomes a fountain springing up and a river flowing forth, forever supplying a continual flow of the Spirit so that those who have it will never thirst for that which cannot satisfy ever again (John 4:10-14; 7:37-39). The living water that Jesus is referring to is the pouring forth of the Holy Spirit (Isaiah 44:3; Joel 2:28; John 7:37-39; Luke 24:49; Acts 2:1-4; Matthew 3:11;). The gift of God, which is the living water is shown to be the gift of the Holy Spirit several times in both the Old and the New Testament (John 7:37-39; Isaiah 44:3; Acts 2:38; 8:20; 10:45; 11:17; 2 Timothy 1:6). It is the Holy Spirit that brings to us the new birth and function in our lives to bring forth all that the pleasures and fruits of the nature of God in our lives (John 3:5; Psalms 36:8; 46:4; Galatians 5:22; 1 John 3:24; Romans 14:17; 2 Peter 1:3-4; Titus 3:5; Romans 8:2; 1 Corinthians 2:12; 2 Corinthians 5:17-18; Ezekiel 36:26-27). If we hunger and thirst after righteousness God will supply us with His Spirit so that the righteousness, peace and joy of the Kingdom of God fills us to overflowing (Isaiah 55:1; Matthew 5:6; John 4:14; John 6:35; John 7:37-39; Romans 14:17; Matthew 6:33; John 3:5).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/16/07
John 10:8 - Everyone who came before Me are thieves and robbers; but the sheep did not hear them.
Jesus was telling everyone for all time in no uncertain terms that He is the only way to the Father (Acts 4:12; 1 Timothy 2:5; John 17:3; Philippians 2:10; Acts 10:43; John 3:36; Mark 16:16). Only through Him can mankind return to a relationship with God. When Jesus referred to all those who came before Him, He was referring to every false leader on earth who came declaring to mankind that they knew the way to God. Jesus was not only referring to the religious leaders of the day, nor was He narrowly looking at the "lost sheep of the house of Israel." God's love was extended to everyone and He knew that the gift of salvation would be granted to all men everywhere (John 3:16; 12:32; 1 Timothy 2:6; 1 John 2:2).
Jesus is the door to every blessing in God and all of the benefits of abundant life (Ephesians 1:3; 3 John 1:2; Psalms 68:19; 103:2). As the good Shepard He has come to lead us into all of these wonderful things that God has prepared for those who love Him (1 Corinthians 2:9; Isaiah 64:4; Deuteronomy 28:1-13; James 1:17; 2 Peter 1:3). The false shepherds steal from the sheep like thieves and robbers. They steal the word of life, holding the people in blindness and poverty - and even take the food from off of the table of those they victimize (Jeremiah 23:1-2; Ezekiel 34:2-3). This is not so with the Good Shepard - who not only laid down His life for the sheep but provides all that they have need of according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19; 2 Corinthians 8:9; 9:8-11).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 10:8 - Everyone who came before Me are thieves and robbers; but the sheep did not hear them.
Jesus was telling everyone for all time in no uncertain terms that He is the only way to the Father (Acts 4:12; 1 Timothy 2:5; John 17:3; Philippians 2:10; Acts 10:43; John 3:36; Mark 16:16). Only through Him can mankind return to a relationship with God. When Jesus referred to all those who came before Him, He was referring to every false leader on earth who came declaring to mankind that they knew the way to God. Jesus was not only referring to the religious leaders of the day, nor was He narrowly looking at the "lost sheep of the house of Israel." God's love was extended to everyone and He knew that the gift of salvation would be granted to all men everywhere (John 3:16; 12:32; 1 Timothy 2:6; 1 John 2:2).
Jesus is the door to every blessing in God and all of the benefits of abundant life (Ephesians 1:3; 3 John 1:2; Psalms 68:19; 103:2). As the good Shepard He has come to lead us into all of these wonderful things that God has prepared for those who love Him (1 Corinthians 2:9; Isaiah 64:4; Deuteronomy 28:1-13; James 1:17; 2 Peter 1:3). The false shepherds steal from the sheep like thieves and robbers. They steal the word of life, holding the people in blindness and poverty - and even take the food from off of the table of those they victimize (Jeremiah 23:1-2; Ezekiel 34:2-3). This is not so with the Good Shepard - who not only laid down His life for the sheep but provides all that they have need of according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19; 2 Corinthians 8:9; 9:8-11).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/15/07
John 5:44 - How are you able to believe when you seek glory from one another and you do not seek the glory that only comes from God?
Truth and reality has never been popular in the social and political structures of man. When Jesus came proclaiming the message of salvation and actually demonstrating the glory of God, many of those who held important positions were threatened by Him. They were so caught away in their own rules and regulations that they had become furious that Jesus worked a miracle on the sabbath (John 5:16). Jesus attempted to explain to them exactly why He did the miracle on the sabbath. He was only doing what the Father showed Him to do. Because His heart was fixed on doing the will of the Father, He did not even consider what they thought (John 5:17, 19-20, 30). Jesus explained to these angry men why the glory of the Father was revealed in His life. The primary focus of the message is that He lived only to honor the Father and to do His will. Therefore, at the heart of everything that Jesus was doing was His relationship that He had with the Father as His Son (John 5:19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25). Because of this relationship that He had with the Father, it was the Father who gave Him glory and honor by testifying on His behalf through these miracles (John 5:32, 36, 37).
The concluding statement of Jesus to these leaders is key to our understanding how to function in the faith of God. We must realize above all else that it is essential to be totally committed to the will of God. With this commitment we must also understand that we can do nothing of ourselves and to attempt to - even out of a desire to please the Father - will result in failure. Above everything else, our relationship with the Father must be first.
Jesus makes it imperative that we seek the glory (Gr-doxa), which only comes from God (Exodus 34:29; Romans 2:7; Romans 8:18; 1 Corinthians 2:7; 2 Corinthians 3:18; 1 Thessalonians 2:12; 1 Peter 1:11; 1 Peter 5:10; 2 Peter 1:3). We must be cautious of the fact that if we seek the glory that comes from men it will run direct interference with the glory that comes from the Father. If we are careful to always do everything out of relationship with God, seeking only His honor and glory above all other things, then we will be empowered to function in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 5:44 - How are you able to believe when you seek glory from one another and you do not seek the glory that only comes from God?
Truth and reality has never been popular in the social and political structures of man. When Jesus came proclaiming the message of salvation and actually demonstrating the glory of God, many of those who held important positions were threatened by Him. They were so caught away in their own rules and regulations that they had become furious that Jesus worked a miracle on the sabbath (John 5:16). Jesus attempted to explain to them exactly why He did the miracle on the sabbath. He was only doing what the Father showed Him to do. Because His heart was fixed on doing the will of the Father, He did not even consider what they thought (John 5:17, 19-20, 30). Jesus explained to these angry men why the glory of the Father was revealed in His life. The primary focus of the message is that He lived only to honor the Father and to do His will. Therefore, at the heart of everything that Jesus was doing was His relationship that He had with the Father as His Son (John 5:19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25). Because of this relationship that He had with the Father, it was the Father who gave Him glory and honor by testifying on His behalf through these miracles (John 5:32, 36, 37).
The concluding statement of Jesus to these leaders is key to our understanding how to function in the faith of God. We must realize above all else that it is essential to be totally committed to the will of God. With this commitment we must also understand that we can do nothing of ourselves and to attempt to - even out of a desire to please the Father - will result in failure. Above everything else, our relationship with the Father must be first.
Jesus makes it imperative that we seek the glory (Gr-doxa), which only comes from God (Exodus 34:29; Romans 2:7; Romans 8:18; 1 Corinthians 2:7; 2 Corinthians 3:18; 1 Thessalonians 2:12; 1 Peter 1:11; 1 Peter 5:10; 2 Peter 1:3). We must be cautious of the fact that if we seek the glory that comes from men it will run direct interference with the glory that comes from the Father. If we are careful to always do everything out of relationship with God, seeking only His honor and glory above all other things, then we will be empowered to function in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Monday, May 14, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/14/07
Acts 11:18 - And when they heard these things they grew silent and glorified God saying, also unto the Gentiles God has given repentance unto life.
Repentance is a gift that is granted to us by God. Repentance takes us from spiritual death to life and from spiritual darkness to light (Ephesians 2:1; 5:18; Colossians 2:13; 1 Peter 2:19). Repentance takes us beyond just being sorry but results in a forgiveness that frees us from both the deed and the guilt of wrongdoing (Hebrews 9:14; Acts 5:31; Titus 3:5; Ephesians 1:7; Revelation 1:5; Acts 26:18). For example, Judas was sorry (Gr-metamellomai), but his being sorry did not result in seeking forgiveness (Matthew 27:3). God grants us the gift of having a complete change of mind (Gr-metanoian).
When the light of the gospel shines into our heart and we realize that God loves us and has called us to His own realm of life and righteousness, the weight and guilt of sin stands before us. Because of God's unspeakable gift He has provided the blood of Jesus to wash away every stain of sin and free us from all of the past with one simple request from our heart (Romans 10:9-10, 13; Acts 16:31; Matthew 26:28; Romans 3:25). The gift of repentance gives us a change of heart, a change of desires, and a change of life because God makes all things new (2 Corinthians 5:18; Jeremiah 31:33; Ezekiel 36:26; Acts 3:26; 1 Peter 1:22; Ephesians 4:23-24). Because of this change we feel differently about sin; it is not something we want; rather, we begin to desire righteousness and purity for our lives. The deception of sin and darkness that once blinded us to the truth and reality of God is removed by this simple act of repentance (2 Corinthians 4:4; Revelation 13:14).
God in His amazing love for us also grants us the privilege of being forgiving as many times as is necessary if we simply come to Him in repentance (Luke 17:3-4; Matthew 18:22, 35; 6:15). His forgiveness is totally unlike the forgiveness of man because He restores us to a relationship with Himself as though we had never done anything wrong. He erases our sins and never again remembers them so that there is no threat of repercussions in the future (Hebrews 8:12; 10:17; Isaiah 43:25; 44:22; Jeremiah 50:20; Micah 7:19; 1 John 1:9; Revelation 1:5).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Acts 11:18 - And when they heard these things they grew silent and glorified God saying, also unto the Gentiles God has given repentance unto life.
Repentance is a gift that is granted to us by God. Repentance takes us from spiritual death to life and from spiritual darkness to light (Ephesians 2:1; 5:18; Colossians 2:13; 1 Peter 2:19). Repentance takes us beyond just being sorry but results in a forgiveness that frees us from both the deed and the guilt of wrongdoing (Hebrews 9:14; Acts 5:31; Titus 3:5; Ephesians 1:7; Revelation 1:5; Acts 26:18). For example, Judas was sorry (Gr-metamellomai), but his being sorry did not result in seeking forgiveness (Matthew 27:3). God grants us the gift of having a complete change of mind (Gr-metanoian).
When the light of the gospel shines into our heart and we realize that God loves us and has called us to His own realm of life and righteousness, the weight and guilt of sin stands before us. Because of God's unspeakable gift He has provided the blood of Jesus to wash away every stain of sin and free us from all of the past with one simple request from our heart (Romans 10:9-10, 13; Acts 16:31; Matthew 26:28; Romans 3:25). The gift of repentance gives us a change of heart, a change of desires, and a change of life because God makes all things new (2 Corinthians 5:18; Jeremiah 31:33; Ezekiel 36:26; Acts 3:26; 1 Peter 1:22; Ephesians 4:23-24). Because of this change we feel differently about sin; it is not something we want; rather, we begin to desire righteousness and purity for our lives. The deception of sin and darkness that once blinded us to the truth and reality of God is removed by this simple act of repentance (2 Corinthians 4:4; Revelation 13:14).
God in His amazing love for us also grants us the privilege of being forgiving as many times as is necessary if we simply come to Him in repentance (Luke 17:3-4; Matthew 18:22, 35; 6:15). His forgiveness is totally unlike the forgiveness of man because He restores us to a relationship with Himself as though we had never done anything wrong. He erases our sins and never again remembers them so that there is no threat of repercussions in the future (Hebrews 8:12; 10:17; Isaiah 43:25; 44:22; Jeremiah 50:20; Micah 7:19; 1 John 1:9; Revelation 1:5).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Friday, May 11, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/11/07
Romans 8:18 - For I calculate that this which befalls us now for a season is not worthy of the glory that is about to be revealed in us.
Paul's calculation is that the level of suffering that we endure now is not even in the same category with the glory that is about to be revealed. When Paul was writing to the Corinthians he referred to this suffering as a light affliction (2 Corinthians 4:17). The Greek word that Paul uses to help us put things into proper prospective is "logizomai" which refers to a logical reality. Now the logical calculation is that the suffering is so insignificant in comparison to the glory that it is almost meaningless.
How are we supposed to deal with the suffering and pain that we encounter here in this life? Paul, who had more than his share of opposition and turmoil, reveals to us how to live life free from discouragement. All we need to do is realize that the hand of God is shaping us for greatness both now and in the future. We must realize that He is not only with us through these things but He is so close to us that we are under His shadow (Psalms 91:1). We must realize that whatever groanings we may encounter today will be overshadowed by the glorious liberties of tomorrow. As a result, we will not lose our confidence and joy which will result in a great reward (Hebrews 10:35; 3:6; 11:26).
Jesus endured the sufferings of the cross with joy realizing that it would result in our salvation and His exaltation (Hebrews 12:2). We are also called to share in the same sufferings of Christ which are all about advancing the gospel but it must be kept in the same perspective (Philippians 3:10; 2 Timothy 2:12). However, many of the things that we go through are simply Father's desire to give us something far better than what we have now (1 Peter 1:6-7; James 1:2-3). One Christmas morning I had given one of my sons, who was about three at the time, one of his gifts. It was a very small toy that he immediately thought was the greatest thing ever. I had something far better for him that I wanted him to have but he was so distracted with his new little toy that he would not come over and unwrap his bigger present. Of course I was very excited about the gift that I had for him so in order to redirect his attention I took the little toy away from him after some struggle. It ended up in a disaster because he thought that I was punishing him when all I wanted him to do was to set his little eyes on the main event of that Christmas morning. We must realize that no matter what we are enduring Father has a bigger blessing awaiting us. We must not allow ourselves to sink into the despair of what we may have lost but keep our eyes set on what we are to gain.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Romans 8:18 - For I calculate that this which befalls us now for a season is not worthy of the glory that is about to be revealed in us.
Paul's calculation is that the level of suffering that we endure now is not even in the same category with the glory that is about to be revealed. When Paul was writing to the Corinthians he referred to this suffering as a light affliction (2 Corinthians 4:17). The Greek word that Paul uses to help us put things into proper prospective is "logizomai" which refers to a logical reality. Now the logical calculation is that the suffering is so insignificant in comparison to the glory that it is almost meaningless.
How are we supposed to deal with the suffering and pain that we encounter here in this life? Paul, who had more than his share of opposition and turmoil, reveals to us how to live life free from discouragement. All we need to do is realize that the hand of God is shaping us for greatness both now and in the future. We must realize that He is not only with us through these things but He is so close to us that we are under His shadow (Psalms 91:1). We must realize that whatever groanings we may encounter today will be overshadowed by the glorious liberties of tomorrow. As a result, we will not lose our confidence and joy which will result in a great reward (Hebrews 10:35; 3:6; 11:26).
Jesus endured the sufferings of the cross with joy realizing that it would result in our salvation and His exaltation (Hebrews 12:2). We are also called to share in the same sufferings of Christ which are all about advancing the gospel but it must be kept in the same perspective (Philippians 3:10; 2 Timothy 2:12). However, many of the things that we go through are simply Father's desire to give us something far better than what we have now (1 Peter 1:6-7; James 1:2-3). One Christmas morning I had given one of my sons, who was about three at the time, one of his gifts. It was a very small toy that he immediately thought was the greatest thing ever. I had something far better for him that I wanted him to have but he was so distracted with his new little toy that he would not come over and unwrap his bigger present. Of course I was very excited about the gift that I had for him so in order to redirect his attention I took the little toy away from him after some struggle. It ended up in a disaster because he thought that I was punishing him when all I wanted him to do was to set his little eyes on the main event of that Christmas morning. We must realize that no matter what we are enduring Father has a bigger blessing awaiting us. We must not allow ourselves to sink into the despair of what we may have lost but keep our eyes set on what we are to gain.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/10/07
Acts 8:4 - Then those who were scattered went about preaching the word.
If we want to see the same results that the first century church experienced then we need to be committed to the same testimony. Jesus promised to confirm the word with miracles (Mark 16:20). If one is going to preach properly then it is the "Ho Logos" or "The Word" which must be preached. This phrase is found 134 times in the New Testament and is defined by what Jesus preached.
When Jesus ministered He spoke "the word" (Mark 2:2; John 14:24). It was not His word but the word that the Father gave Him to speak (John 17:14; Luke 5:1; 11:28). His words were the living word that cannot pass away and stands as the judge of all mankind forever (John 5:24; 6:56; 12:48; Hebrews 4:12). His word is the source of eternal life and is the authority that produces all of the acts of deliverance (John 5:24; 8:51; 15:3; Matthew 8:8,16; Luke 4:36; 1 Peter 1:23). It was not subjective and applicable only to the crowd then present but a word that lives and abides forever (Matthew 24:35; Mark 13:31;Luke 1:2; 21:33; John 17:17). Jesus first defined the importance of His words when He said that everyone who hears is word and acts on it is like a wise man who builds his house upon a rock (Matthew 7:24).
The same eternal realm of the Spirit that Jesus spoke these words from is the same realm that functioned in the apostles to recall what was spoken (John 14:26; John 16:13; 2 Peter 1:21; 1 Thessalonians 2:13). Those who would relegate this to a human realm of memory and intellect have yet to view the realms of glory from which these words were spoken. The word is the testimony of Jesus Christ which God's people have been empowered by the Holy Spirit to deliver. Make no mistake "The Word" is defined as the message of Jesus Christ. It is this testimony that we are privileged to be instructed in by the books laid down in the New Testament of the Bible. Certainly, if God can work the miracle to incarnate the Word into human flesh then He can work the miracle to supply us with the accurate testimony of the Word of life. The apostles had probably made provision for at least some part of the New Testament "word" to be available in written form by this time. To believe that the apostles were any less vigilant than to make the Word available in written form before the company of saints were scattered would be very naive.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Acts 8:4 - Then those who were scattered went about preaching the word.
If we want to see the same results that the first century church experienced then we need to be committed to the same testimony. Jesus promised to confirm the word with miracles (Mark 16:20). If one is going to preach properly then it is the "Ho Logos" or "The Word" which must be preached. This phrase is found 134 times in the New Testament and is defined by what Jesus preached.
When Jesus ministered He spoke "the word" (Mark 2:2; John 14:24). It was not His word but the word that the Father gave Him to speak (John 17:14; Luke 5:1; 11:28). His words were the living word that cannot pass away and stands as the judge of all mankind forever (John 5:24; 6:56; 12:48; Hebrews 4:12). His word is the source of eternal life and is the authority that produces all of the acts of deliverance (John 5:24; 8:51; 15:3; Matthew 8:8,16; Luke 4:36; 1 Peter 1:23). It was not subjective and applicable only to the crowd then present but a word that lives and abides forever (Matthew 24:35; Mark 13:31;Luke 1:2; 21:33; John 17:17). Jesus first defined the importance of His words when He said that everyone who hears is word and acts on it is like a wise man who builds his house upon a rock (Matthew 7:24).
The same eternal realm of the Spirit that Jesus spoke these words from is the same realm that functioned in the apostles to recall what was spoken (John 14:26; John 16:13; 2 Peter 1:21; 1 Thessalonians 2:13). Those who would relegate this to a human realm of memory and intellect have yet to view the realms of glory from which these words were spoken. The word is the testimony of Jesus Christ which God's people have been empowered by the Holy Spirit to deliver. Make no mistake "The Word" is defined as the message of Jesus Christ. It is this testimony that we are privileged to be instructed in by the books laid down in the New Testament of the Bible. Certainly, if God can work the miracle to incarnate the Word into human flesh then He can work the miracle to supply us with the accurate testimony of the Word of life. The apostles had probably made provision for at least some part of the New Testament "word" to be available in written form by this time. To believe that the apostles were any less vigilant than to make the Word available in written form before the company of saints were scattered would be very naive.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
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