Daily Bread
1 Thessalonians 3:13 - "Unto the establishment of your hearts blameless in holiness before God and our Father in the coming of the Lord our Jesus with all His holy ones."
When the scripture refers to the coming of the Lord Jesus it is important to recognize that there are four separate events that are referred to. The first time that Jesus came was when He was incarnated and born of the virgin to live, die, and resurrect for all mankind. The second time that Jesus comes is when He comes to manifest himself to the believers (John 14:18, 23). In fact, every time that two or three are gathered together in His name He is there. The third time that Jesus will come is at the time of the "catching away" or "rapture of the church." This takes place at the end of the church age which is also the end of God calling the nations to salvation; rather, God will come to fight against the nations on behalf of Israel. God will only be calling the nation of Israel to repentance during the seven years of the Tribulation. The church age ends just prior to the beginning of the Tribulation or the chronology of events that begin in the fourth chapter of Revelation (1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 1 Corinthians 15:51-52; John 14:3; James 5:7-8; Revelation 1:19; 4:1). The fourth time that Jesus will come is when He comes with all of His saints and will set up God's Kingdom on earth for 1000 years. This event is pictured in Revelation 19:11-20:6; 2 Thessalonians 2:8; Matthew 24:3-31 and Jude 1:14-15). There are several Greek words that are used for the coming of the Lord. One of these Greek words is "parousia" which is the Greek word used in this verse. Another is "apokalupsis" which means revealing or revelation. This particular word was used by the Apostle Peter in 1 Peter 1:7 and also used by Paul in 2 Thessalonians 1:7. The Greek word "parousia" is used seven times in 1 and 2 Thessalonians. It is used of the coming of the Lord Jesus when He came 2000 years ago as well of His future coming (2 Peter 1:16). It is used of the catching away when Jesus meets His saints in the air. It is also used of the time when Jesus returns with His saints to fight in the Battle of Armageddon. And, finally, it is used of the coming of God when the New Heavens and the New Earth will be created at the end of the 1000 year reign of Christ Jesus and His saints (2 Peter 3:12). When the scripture addresses the "parousia" of Jesus to the saints it is always referring to His coming at the time of the catching away (1 Thessalonians 4:15; 1 John 2:28; 1 Thessalonians 2:19; 3:13). In summary, Jesus came to redeem, He comes to reveal Himself to His church, He will come to receive His church unto Himself, He will come with His saints to destroy the armies of the antichrist and set up his eternal Kingdom.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Daily Bread
Acts 7:4 - "Then he came out from the country of the Chaldeans and settled in Haran. And after that his father died he was made to move into this country where you now dwell."
Abraham was born in Ur, which was a town in southern Mesopotamia and southern Babylon (Genesis 11:28, 31; Genesis 15:7; Nehemiah 9:7). Evidently, Abraham's father was involved in this call to some degree. It may be that he came with Abraham because he believed in the call on Abraham's life. Terah began to have sons at 70 years of age and he died in Haran at the age of 205 (Genesis 11:26, 32). Abraham was 75 years old when he left Haran after his father's death. Therefore, Terah would have been 130 years old when Abraham was born (Genesis 12:4). We cannot be certain how old Abraham was when God first appeared to him in Ur but we do know that he was married to Sarai long enough for Sarai to be classified as barren, a title given to those who have little to no hope of ever having children. Abraham may have been 70 years old, which would have made Terah 200 years old. It may be that Abraham needed to take care of his aged father and also his orphaned nephew Lot and this is why they left Ur with Abraham. We know that Abraham was very prompt in obeying God as exemplified by his speedy response to sacrifice Isaac in Genesis 22:3. It may be that God appeared to Abraham giving him the promise at 70 years of age at which time his sojourning began (Galatians 3:17; Hebrews 11:8; Exodus 12:40). The sojourning of Abraham and his descendents during the time of Promise would last a total of 430 years as testified by both Paul and Moses.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Acts 7:4 - "Then he came out from the country of the Chaldeans and settled in Haran. And after that his father died he was made to move into this country where you now dwell."
Abraham was born in Ur, which was a town in southern Mesopotamia and southern Babylon (Genesis 11:28, 31; Genesis 15:7; Nehemiah 9:7). Evidently, Abraham's father was involved in this call to some degree. It may be that he came with Abraham because he believed in the call on Abraham's life. Terah began to have sons at 70 years of age and he died in Haran at the age of 205 (Genesis 11:26, 32). Abraham was 75 years old when he left Haran after his father's death. Therefore, Terah would have been 130 years old when Abraham was born (Genesis 12:4). We cannot be certain how old Abraham was when God first appeared to him in Ur but we do know that he was married to Sarai long enough for Sarai to be classified as barren, a title given to those who have little to no hope of ever having children. Abraham may have been 70 years old, which would have made Terah 200 years old. It may be that Abraham needed to take care of his aged father and also his orphaned nephew Lot and this is why they left Ur with Abraham. We know that Abraham was very prompt in obeying God as exemplified by his speedy response to sacrifice Isaac in Genesis 22:3. It may be that God appeared to Abraham giving him the promise at 70 years of age at which time his sojourning began (Galatians 3:17; Hebrews 11:8; Exodus 12:40). The sojourning of Abraham and his descendents during the time of Promise would last a total of 430 years as testified by both Paul and Moses.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Daily Bread
1 John 2: 27 - "And the anointing that you have received from Him abides in you and you do not need that anyone teach you, but just as the anointing teaches you about everything and is no lie and just as it has taught you, you shall abide in Him."
The anointing that we have received from the Holy One of verse 20, "charisma" is the anointing that teaches us all things. The anointing "charisma", in this respect is identified with the work of the Holy Spirit who was sent specifically to be our teacher and guide (John 16:13-15). Both John 14:17 and 1 John 3:24 teach us that the abiding presence of the Father and the Son are brought to us by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. One of the specific attributes of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is the "charisma". Jesus received the "charine" (anointing) after the Holy Spirit had come upon Him, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because He has anointed me to preach" (Luke 4:18) also "How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power who went about doing good and healing all those who were oppressed with the devil for God was with him" (Acts 10:38). Just as Jesus was empowered to function in His miracle ministry through the anointing, we are empowered to function in the divine life through the anointing. Thus through the anointing the Holy Spirit leads us, guides us and reveals the ways of the Father to us. The anointing is a divine empowerment and supernatural ability that has been given to the believer to live the life of a new creature. When Saul was anointed to be king he was given the divine ability to be a king; prior to the anointing he was an ordinary man. The same is true of all Old Testament prophets, priest, warriors and special workman. When the Spirit came upon them they were empowered with a specific ability to carry out their divine commission. The anointing supercedes the assistance and help of man, because it goes far beyond human capabilities. The message of the Gospel is that we are to abide in Jesus. It is through this abiding union that we have been given in the Holy Spirit that we are empowered to live the divine life of Christ Jesus.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 John 2: 27 - "And the anointing that you have received from Him abides in you and you do not need that anyone teach you, but just as the anointing teaches you about everything and is no lie and just as it has taught you, you shall abide in Him."
The anointing that we have received from the Holy One of verse 20, "charisma" is the anointing that teaches us all things. The anointing "charisma", in this respect is identified with the work of the Holy Spirit who was sent specifically to be our teacher and guide (John 16:13-15). Both John 14:17 and 1 John 3:24 teach us that the abiding presence of the Father and the Son are brought to us by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. One of the specific attributes of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is the "charisma". Jesus received the "charine" (anointing) after the Holy Spirit had come upon Him, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because He has anointed me to preach" (Luke 4:18) also "How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power who went about doing good and healing all those who were oppressed with the devil for God was with him" (Acts 10:38). Just as Jesus was empowered to function in His miracle ministry through the anointing, we are empowered to function in the divine life through the anointing. Thus through the anointing the Holy Spirit leads us, guides us and reveals the ways of the Father to us. The anointing is a divine empowerment and supernatural ability that has been given to the believer to live the life of a new creature. When Saul was anointed to be king he was given the divine ability to be a king; prior to the anointing he was an ordinary man. The same is true of all Old Testament prophets, priest, warriors and special workman. When the Spirit came upon them they were empowered with a specific ability to carry out their divine commission. The anointing supercedes the assistance and help of man, because it goes far beyond human capabilities. The message of the Gospel is that we are to abide in Jesus. It is through this abiding union that we have been given in the Holy Spirit that we are empowered to live the divine life of Christ Jesus.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Monday, July 17, 2006
Daily Bread
2 Thessalonians 1:3 - "We owe it to give thanks to God always for you brethren as it is right because your faith increases beyond measure and the love of each one of you abounds toward one another."
In 1 Thessalonians 3:10 Paul reveals his desire to come to the Thessalonians to perfect that which was lacking in their faith which, afterward, resulted in their faith having increased beyond measure. He also prayed that God would make them to increase and abound in love one toward another which prayer was certainly answered (1 Thessalonians 3:12). This is the only time that this Greek word, "huperauxano" is used in the Bible. It is a compound word from "huper" which means "beyond or more than, exceedingly" and "auxano" which means "grow or increase." Faith is a gift that comes from God to which He supplies everyone with a measure (Romans 12:3). Faith is not only likened unto a mustard seed, but is also likened unto something that grows and may be increased (2 Thessalonians 1:3; 2 Corinthians 10:15). We know that Jesus referred to situations with the disciples where they had no faith (Mark 4:40; Luke 8:25). There were also those who had great faith (Matthew 15:28; Luke 7:9)). Faith may be weak in one who believes and it may also be strong (Acts 6:8; Romans 14:1). From the ministry that Paul was able to supply to the Thessalonians, he was able to take them from a place of lack to abundance in the realm of faith. God has invited all men into the realm of His faith and even commands that we "have God's faith" (Mark 11:22; Acts 6:5).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Abiding Place: www.abidingplace.org
2 Thessalonians 1:3 - "We owe it to give thanks to God always for you brethren as it is right because your faith increases beyond measure and the love of each one of you abounds toward one another."
In 1 Thessalonians 3:10 Paul reveals his desire to come to the Thessalonians to perfect that which was lacking in their faith which, afterward, resulted in their faith having increased beyond measure. He also prayed that God would make them to increase and abound in love one toward another which prayer was certainly answered (1 Thessalonians 3:12). This is the only time that this Greek word, "huperauxano" is used in the Bible. It is a compound word from "huper" which means "beyond or more than, exceedingly" and "auxano" which means "grow or increase." Faith is a gift that comes from God to which He supplies everyone with a measure (Romans 12:3). Faith is not only likened unto a mustard seed, but is also likened unto something that grows and may be increased (2 Thessalonians 1:3; 2 Corinthians 10:15). We know that Jesus referred to situations with the disciples where they had no faith (Mark 4:40; Luke 8:25). There were also those who had great faith (Matthew 15:28; Luke 7:9)). Faith may be weak in one who believes and it may also be strong (Acts 6:8; Romans 14:1). From the ministry that Paul was able to supply to the Thessalonians, he was able to take them from a place of lack to abundance in the realm of faith. God has invited all men into the realm of His faith and even commands that we "have God's faith" (Mark 11:22; Acts 6:5).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Abiding Place: www.abidingplace.org
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Daily Bread
John 1:32: "And John was able to make him known pointing out that he was able to see with his eyes the Spirit come down upon him as a dove out of heaven and remain upon him."
Jesus was lacking this dimension of the Glory and Power of God until this event. Although Jesus was the only begotten Son of God who was perfectly pure and holy having no nature of sin within Himself, He had not received the Spirit without measure until He was baptized of John in the Jordan. As Jesus submitted Himself to the ministry that had gone before Him and fulfilled all righteousness, the Heavens were open and Father endued Him with power from on high. It is at this moment that God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and Power to preach the gospel to the meek, bind up the broken in heart, proclaim deliverance to the captives, recovery of sight to the blind, set at liberty those who are bruised, and proclaim the acceptable day of the Lord.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: awakesd@earthlink.net
Phone: 858-566-1700
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
John 1:32: "And John was able to make him known pointing out that he was able to see with his eyes the Spirit come down upon him as a dove out of heaven and remain upon him."
Jesus was lacking this dimension of the Glory and Power of God until this event. Although Jesus was the only begotten Son of God who was perfectly pure and holy having no nature of sin within Himself, He had not received the Spirit without measure until He was baptized of John in the Jordan. As Jesus submitted Himself to the ministry that had gone before Him and fulfilled all righteousness, the Heavens were open and Father endued Him with power from on high. It is at this moment that God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and Power to preach the gospel to the meek, bind up the broken in heart, proclaim deliverance to the captives, recovery of sight to the blind, set at liberty those who are bruised, and proclaim the acceptable day of the Lord.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: awakesd@earthlink.net
Phone: 858-566-1700
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Friday, July 14, 2006
Daily Bread
Acts 2:16-18: "But this is that spoken through the prophet Joel. And it shall be in the last days" says God, "I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy and your young men shall see visions and your old men shall dream dreams. And upon my male and female servants I will pour out my Spirit in those days and they shall prophesy."
This is not an exact quote of what is written in either the Septuagint or the Hebrew Bible (MT). However, the differences are only minor and may be understood in light of the Holy Spirit speaking expressly through Peter of its New Covenant application. The following is a quote from both the Hebrew Bible and the Septuagint, "And it will happen after this that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy; your elders will dream dreams your young men will see visions. And also upon the slaves and upon the maidservants in those days I will pour out My Spirit. I will give wonders in the heavens and in the earth: blood and fire and pillars of smoke. The sun shall turn to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and awesome day of YHWH. And it will be that anyone who calls on the name of YHWH will be saved" (Joel 3:1-4). Peter makes a few initial changes by the Holy Spirit; he changes "after this" to "in the last days" and he adds "says God." Both of these changes result in a clearer picture of the prophecy by establishing that this is an event for the last days and that this was said by God and not merely by a prophet named Joel. Also "your servants" is changed to "my servants," removing the limitation of servants just to the nation of Israel and opening the door to all of God's servants in very nation. Finally, "they shall prophesy" is added underscoring that the effect of the outpouring of the Spirit will be the same for the servants as for the masters. Now this broadened scope of servants would include all men everywhere that are the servants of God such as the Samaritans and the house of Cornelius (Acts 8,10).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: awakesd@earthlink.net
Phone: 858-566-1700
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Acts 2:16-18: "But this is that spoken through the prophet Joel. And it shall be in the last days" says God, "I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy and your young men shall see visions and your old men shall dream dreams. And upon my male and female servants I will pour out my Spirit in those days and they shall prophesy."
This is not an exact quote of what is written in either the Septuagint or the Hebrew Bible (MT). However, the differences are only minor and may be understood in light of the Holy Spirit speaking expressly through Peter of its New Covenant application. The following is a quote from both the Hebrew Bible and the Septuagint, "And it will happen after this that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy; your elders will dream dreams your young men will see visions. And also upon the slaves and upon the maidservants in those days I will pour out My Spirit. I will give wonders in the heavens and in the earth: blood and fire and pillars of smoke. The sun shall turn to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and awesome day of YHWH. And it will be that anyone who calls on the name of YHWH will be saved" (Joel 3:1-4). Peter makes a few initial changes by the Holy Spirit; he changes "after this" to "in the last days" and he adds "says God." Both of these changes result in a clearer picture of the prophecy by establishing that this is an event for the last days and that this was said by God and not merely by a prophet named Joel. Also "your servants" is changed to "my servants," removing the limitation of servants just to the nation of Israel and opening the door to all of God's servants in very nation. Finally, "they shall prophesy" is added underscoring that the effect of the outpouring of the Spirit will be the same for the servants as for the masters. Now this broadened scope of servants would include all men everywhere that are the servants of God such as the Samaritans and the house of Cornelius (Acts 8,10).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: awakesd@earthlink.net
Phone: 858-566-1700
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Daily Bread
Ephesians 2:5: "Even when we were dead in trespasses made us alive together with Christ, by Grace you are saved."
The work of salvation takes place in our lives simply because we are willing to accept that Jesus died for us and through His death He paid our just penalty for sin. It is necessary then that we fully embrace His life and identity as well. For He is in fact more than our substitute or representative for we died with Him that we might live with Him. The miracle of the new birth is the result of the former things having been put to death through our death with Christ Jesus for we were "crucified with Christ" (Galatians 2:20). Because we are "buried with him by baptism into His death" the entirety of our existence now is to be in Him (Romans 6:4). "For we thus judge if one died for all then all are dead that we should no longer live for ourselves but for the one who died for us" (2Cor.5:14-15). As a result we are alive together with Him, we are raised up together and made to sit together in the heavens, this is Grace! God's Grace produces for us what we could never supply for ourselves. All we have to do is accept what He has done for us and surrender ourselves to His work of Grace that has both changed us and perfects us. Because of God's great love and unspeakable gift we are given co-life, co- resurrection and co-enthronement. All we have to do is to trust in Him.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: awakesd@earthlink.net
Phone: 858-566-1700
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Ephesians 2:5: "Even when we were dead in trespasses made us alive together with Christ, by Grace you are saved."
The work of salvation takes place in our lives simply because we are willing to accept that Jesus died for us and through His death He paid our just penalty for sin. It is necessary then that we fully embrace His life and identity as well. For He is in fact more than our substitute or representative for we died with Him that we might live with Him. The miracle of the new birth is the result of the former things having been put to death through our death with Christ Jesus for we were "crucified with Christ" (Galatians 2:20). Because we are "buried with him by baptism into His death" the entirety of our existence now is to be in Him (Romans 6:4). "For we thus judge if one died for all then all are dead that we should no longer live for ourselves but for the one who died for us" (2Cor.5:14-15). As a result we are alive together with Him, we are raised up together and made to sit together in the heavens, this is Grace! God's Grace produces for us what we could never supply for ourselves. All we have to do is accept what He has done for us and surrender ourselves to His work of Grace that has both changed us and perfects us. Because of God's great love and unspeakable gift we are given co-life, co- resurrection and co-enthronement. All we have to do is to trust in Him.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: awakesd@earthlink.net
Phone: 858-566-1700
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Daily Bread
Ephesians 2:5: "Even when we were dead in trespasses made us alive together with Christ, by Grace you are saved."
The work of salvation takes place in our lives simply because we are willing to accept that Jesus died for us and through His death He paid our just penalty for sin. It is necessary then that we fully embrace His life and identity as well. For He is in fact more than our substitute or representative for we died with Him that we might live with Him. The miracle of the new birth is the result of the former things having been put to death through our death with Christ Jesus for we were "crucified with Christ" (Galatians 2:20). Because we are "buried with him by baptism into His death" the entirety of our existence now is to be in Him (Romans 6:4). "For we thus judge if one died for all then all are dead that we should no longer live for ourselves but for the one who died for us" (2Cor.5:14-15). As a result we are alive together with Him, we are raised up together and made to sit together in the heavens, this is Grace! God's Grace produces for us what we could never supply for ourselves. All we have to do is accept what He has done for us and surrender ourselves to His work of Grace that has both changed us and perfects us. Because of God's great love and unspeakable gift we are given co-life, co- resurrection and co-enthronement. All we have to do is to trust in Him.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: awakesd@earthlink.net
Phone: 858-566-1700
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Ephesians 2:5: "Even when we were dead in trespasses made us alive together with Christ, by Grace you are saved."
The work of salvation takes place in our lives simply because we are willing to accept that Jesus died for us and through His death He paid our just penalty for sin. It is necessary then that we fully embrace His life and identity as well. For He is in fact more than our substitute or representative for we died with Him that we might live with Him. The miracle of the new birth is the result of the former things having been put to death through our death with Christ Jesus for we were "crucified with Christ" (Galatians 2:20). Because we are "buried with him by baptism into His death" the entirety of our existence now is to be in Him (Romans 6:4). "For we thus judge if one died for all then all are dead that we should no longer live for ourselves but for the one who died for us" (2Cor.5:14-15). As a result we are alive together with Him, we are raised up together and made to sit together in the heavens, this is Grace! God's Grace produces for us what we could never supply for ourselves. All we have to do is accept what He has done for us and surrender ourselves to His work of Grace that has both changed us and perfects us. Because of God's great love and unspeakable gift we are given co-life, co- resurrection and co-enthronement. All we have to do is to trust in Him.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: awakesd@earthlink.net
Phone: 858-566-1700
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Daily Bread
2 Thessalonians 1:11: "Unto which we also pray continually for you that our God would count you worthy of the calling and fill you will all the goodness of His good pleasure and work of faith in power."
Paul relates the similar message in Ephesians 4:1: "I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation where with ye are called."; Colossians 1:10: "That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God." and 1 Thessalonians 2:12: "That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory."In each case, the Greek word 'axios' is used which is derived from the root word used here which is 'axioo,' to count worthy. When Paul ministered the gospel to the Jews in Acts chapter 13, they refused to listen and rejected the good news, therefore, because of their rejection of the gospel Paul said that they judged themselves unworthy of everlasting life (Acts 13:46). Therefore, we may suppose that Paul's usage of this word underscores that the rejection of the gospel makes one unworthy, whereas, the acceptance and obedience to the gospel makes one worthy. If we are willing to believe all that God has said we will discover that He will make it a reality in our lives. We simply accept His love, and believe on the Lord Jesus, and we are saved. If we will accept the commission and believe in the work of the Holy Spirit we will discover all of His works of power in our lives as well.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
2 Thessalonians 1:11: "Unto which we also pray continually for you that our God would count you worthy of the calling and fill you will all the goodness of His good pleasure and work of faith in power."
Paul relates the similar message in Ephesians 4:1: "I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation where with ye are called."; Colossians 1:10: "That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God." and 1 Thessalonians 2:12: "That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory."In each case, the Greek word 'axios' is used which is derived from the root word used here which is 'axioo,' to count worthy. When Paul ministered the gospel to the Jews in Acts chapter 13, they refused to listen and rejected the good news, therefore, because of their rejection of the gospel Paul said that they judged themselves unworthy of everlasting life (Acts 13:46). Therefore, we may suppose that Paul's usage of this word underscores that the rejection of the gospel makes one unworthy, whereas, the acceptance and obedience to the gospel makes one worthy. If we are willing to believe all that God has said we will discover that He will make it a reality in our lives. We simply accept His love, and believe on the Lord Jesus, and we are saved. If we will accept the commission and believe in the work of the Holy Spirit we will discover all of His works of power in our lives as well.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Daily Bread
Romans 8:14: "For as many as are Spirit of God led these are the sons of God."
The responsibility of everyone that has been born of the Spirit is that they allow the Holy Spirit to lead them. The Spirit of God has come to personally instruct and train everyone who has been made a son of God (John 16:13-15). It is the responsibility of every child of God to yield to the leading of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will lead us and guide us into all truth. He will teach us to do everything that pleases the Father. He will train us to walk in all of the ways of righteousness and holiness; all we must do is yield to Him.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Romans 8:14: "For as many as are Spirit of God led these are the sons of God."
The responsibility of everyone that has been born of the Spirit is that they allow the Holy Spirit to lead them. The Spirit of God has come to personally instruct and train everyone who has been made a son of God (John 16:13-15). It is the responsibility of every child of God to yield to the leading of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will lead us and guide us into all truth. He will teach us to do everything that pleases the Father. He will train us to walk in all of the ways of righteousness and holiness; all we must do is yield to Him.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Monday, July 10, 2006
Daily Bread
2 Peter 1:10 "On account of this brethren, instead be diligent to make your calling and election sure for doing these things you shall never fall."
The doctrine of election as taught by the scripture is, in fact, a divine selection of all men unto salvation. The divine selection of all men to salvation is stated in no uncertain terms when Paul said that God has "commanded all men everywhere to repent." The Greek noun 'ekloge' is used only seven times in the New Testament. It is not used at all in any of the canonized books of the Septuagint. The word means "divine selection." The doctrine of "election" or 'divine selection' can easily be understood once a person decides whom it is that God loves and who it was that Christ died for. Upon the realization that God loves the whole world and that Christ died that all men might be saved, the doctrine of election becomes easy to understand.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
2 Peter 1:10 "On account of this brethren, instead be diligent to make your calling and election sure for doing these things you shall never fall."
The doctrine of election as taught by the scripture is, in fact, a divine selection of all men unto salvation. The divine selection of all men to salvation is stated in no uncertain terms when Paul said that God has "commanded all men everywhere to repent." The Greek noun 'ekloge' is used only seven times in the New Testament. It is not used at all in any of the canonized books of the Septuagint. The word means "divine selection." The doctrine of "election" or 'divine selection' can easily be understood once a person decides whom it is that God loves and who it was that Christ died for. Upon the realization that God loves the whole world and that Christ died that all men might be saved, the doctrine of election becomes easy to understand.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Friday, July 07, 2006
Daily Bread
2 Peter 1:5- "And this is it also bringing in all diligence you supply in the faith virtue and with the virtue the knowledge. "
The Greek phrase "en te pistei" ("in the faith" or "by the faith"), takes this activity way beyond both the Law and human discipline. In the faith is not to be understood as "in religion" or some other concept of religious conviction. Faith is much more than these things; it is the activity of the supernatural and divine working of God's grace. Faith is how God created everything. It is how the mouths of lions were shut and how the violence of fire was quenched (Hebrews 11). Faith is how every miracle that Jesus worked by the Spirit took place (Acts 3:16; Galatians 3:5). Faith is always equated to the miracles that Jesus did throughout the gospels (Matthew 8:10, 26; 9:2, 22, 29; 14:31; 15:28; 17: 20; 21:21; Mark 11:22; Luke 17:5, 19; 18:42) The miracles which were done by those who believed on Jesus were done by the activity of faith (Acts 3:16; 6:8; 14:9; Galatians 3:5; 2 Thessalonians 1:11; James 5:15; Jude 21). These attributes of God's nature and God's people are to be supplied by faith not by human discipline.Therefore virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness and love will be supplied through the faith realm. The Greek phrase "en te pistei" is found 4 times in the New Testament as such it is in the dative form and translated "in the faith" in every case except 2 Peter 1:5 in the Authorized Version, (1 Corinthians 16:13; 2 Corinthians 13:5¹ Titus1:13; 2 Peter 1:5).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
2 Peter 1:5- "And this is it also bringing in all diligence you supply in the faith virtue and with the virtue the knowledge. "
The Greek phrase "en te pistei" ("in the faith" or "by the faith"), takes this activity way beyond both the Law and human discipline. In the faith is not to be understood as "in religion" or some other concept of religious conviction. Faith is much more than these things; it is the activity of the supernatural and divine working of God's grace. Faith is how God created everything. It is how the mouths of lions were shut and how the violence of fire was quenched (Hebrews 11). Faith is how every miracle that Jesus worked by the Spirit took place (Acts 3:16; Galatians 3:5). Faith is always equated to the miracles that Jesus did throughout the gospels (Matthew 8:10, 26; 9:2, 22, 29; 14:31; 15:28; 17: 20; 21:21; Mark 11:22; Luke 17:5, 19; 18:42) The miracles which were done by those who believed on Jesus were done by the activity of faith (Acts 3:16; 6:8; 14:9; Galatians 3:5; 2 Thessalonians 1:11; James 5:15; Jude 21). These attributes of God's nature and God's people are to be supplied by faith not by human discipline.Therefore virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness and love will be supplied through the faith realm. The Greek phrase "en te pistei" is found 4 times in the New Testament as such it is in the dative form and translated "in the faith" in every case except 2 Peter 1:5 in the Authorized Version, (1 Corinthians 16:13; 2 Corinthians 13:5¹ Titus1:13; 2 Peter 1:5).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Thursday, July 06, 2006
Daily Bread
1 Peter 4:12 "Beloved do not be surprised by the fiery trial which tries you as though a strange event happened to you."
Fiery trials are inevitable and no one should be concerned that something is happening out of the ordinary. We know that God allows the tests that we face but He does not allow us to be tested above what we are able to bear (1 Cor. 10:13 ). We know that God makes a way for us to escape every trial that we have to go through. It would be wrong to submit to a trial just as it would be wrong to submit to a temptation to sin. God expects that we should rise up in faith and bring an end to every opposition that we face; for it is the shield of faith that quenches every fiery trial of the wicked one (Ephesians 6:16). The way that we escape these fiery trials is to submit to God and resist the devil. Peter also said that we are to resist the devil,"firmly in the faith knowing that the same sufferings are accomplished by your brethren who are in the world: (1 Peter 5:9). The Psalmist said, "many are the afflictions of the righteous but the Lord delivers him out of them all (Psalms 34:19). James said, "Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for after that he is tried he shall receive a crown of life which fades not away" (James 1:12). Jesus said, "in this world you shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer; for I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). Because He overcame we are also able to overcome.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 Peter 4:12 "Beloved do not be surprised by the fiery trial which tries you as though a strange event happened to you."
Fiery trials are inevitable and no one should be concerned that something is happening out of the ordinary. We know that God allows the tests that we face but He does not allow us to be tested above what we are able to bear (1 Cor. 10:13 ). We know that God makes a way for us to escape every trial that we have to go through. It would be wrong to submit to a trial just as it would be wrong to submit to a temptation to sin. God expects that we should rise up in faith and bring an end to every opposition that we face; for it is the shield of faith that quenches every fiery trial of the wicked one (Ephesians 6:16). The way that we escape these fiery trials is to submit to God and resist the devil. Peter also said that we are to resist the devil,"firmly in the faith knowing that the same sufferings are accomplished by your brethren who are in the world: (1 Peter 5:9). The Psalmist said, "many are the afflictions of the righteous but the Lord delivers him out of them all (Psalms 34:19). James said, "Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for after that he is tried he shall receive a crown of life which fades not away" (James 1:12). Jesus said, "in this world you shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer; for I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). Because He overcame we are also able to overcome.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Daily Bread
1 John 3:5 "And we know that He was revealed to take away sins and in Him is no sin."
The only place that men can find freedom from the dominion of sin and power to live in the purity and splendor of God's Holiness is in Christ Jesus. Being "in Christ," is an expression of the relationship that we have been given through His salvation. Instead of continuing to live our own life of defeat and failure we now live a victorious life in Him. John also refers to this place of purity and glory as being "in the Light as He is in the Light" (1 John 1:7). It is His presence that results in purity and the power to live Holy. Purity and holiness belongs to all who are willing to abide in Christ which is emphasized in the next verse, "Everyone who abides in Him has no sin; everyone that sins has not seen Him nor known Him." When one remains in agreement and submission to Christ Jesus there cannot be sin because Christ Jesus will never lead us into such things. The same is true of being led by the Holy Spirit. We know that all who are led by theSpirit are the sons of God (Romans 8:14). If a person is always insubmission to the Holy Spirit then they will never be led to do anything contrary to the will of God. A similar concept is found in verse 9 below which includes agreement and submission to the Word of God resulting in a realm of absolute purity. Being "in Christ" is a message that is delivered many times by the Apostle Paul, "If any man be in Christ he is a new creature," (2 Corinthians 5:17). The fact that the benefits of salvation are only received through our willingness to be "in Christ" is communicated in many verses of scripture throughout the New Testament such as; Romans 8:1, 2, 39; 12:5; 3:24; 1 Co. 1:2, 30; 15:18, 22; 2 Co. 1:21; 2:14, 17; Ga. 3:28; 6:15; Eph. 1:3, 10; 2:6, 10, Col. 1:28.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 John 3:5 "And we know that He was revealed to take away sins and in Him is no sin."
The only place that men can find freedom from the dominion of sin and power to live in the purity and splendor of God's Holiness is in Christ Jesus. Being "in Christ," is an expression of the relationship that we have been given through His salvation. Instead of continuing to live our own life of defeat and failure we now live a victorious life in Him. John also refers to this place of purity and glory as being "in the Light as He is in the Light" (1 John 1:7). It is His presence that results in purity and the power to live Holy. Purity and holiness belongs to all who are willing to abide in Christ which is emphasized in the next verse, "Everyone who abides in Him has no sin; everyone that sins has not seen Him nor known Him." When one remains in agreement and submission to Christ Jesus there cannot be sin because Christ Jesus will never lead us into such things. The same is true of being led by the Holy Spirit. We know that all who are led by theSpirit are the sons of God (Romans 8:14). If a person is always insubmission to the Holy Spirit then they will never be led to do anything contrary to the will of God. A similar concept is found in verse 9 below which includes agreement and submission to the Word of God resulting in a realm of absolute purity. Being "in Christ" is a message that is delivered many times by the Apostle Paul, "If any man be in Christ he is a new creature," (2 Corinthians 5:17). The fact that the benefits of salvation are only received through our willingness to be "in Christ" is communicated in many verses of scripture throughout the New Testament such as; Romans 8:1, 2, 39; 12:5; 3:24; 1 Co. 1:2, 30; 15:18, 22; 2 Co. 1:21; 2:14, 17; Ga. 3:28; 6:15; Eph. 1:3, 10; 2:6, 10, Col. 1:28.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Friday, June 16, 2006
Daily Bread
Romans 9:10 "But if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin but the Spirit is life because of righteousness."
When Adam sinned, one of the judgments that came upon him was that his body - which was made from the dust of the earth - would return to the dust. This process of corruption made the body the host of disease and sickness. When the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ is being preached it targets as its number two enemy: sickness and disease. When Jesus was anointed of God to preach, His mission was to go about healing all those who were oppressed of the devil. He was manifested to destroy the works of the devil - which are not only the activities of sin but also the activities of sickness. When Jesus anointed His disciples He sent them to do the same thing: to cast out devils and to heal every kind of sickness and disease (the same is true of the seventy others also and of us today). In fact the anointing of this Gospel was so strong upon the Apostle Paul's life that handkerchiefs and aprons were taken from his body and placed upon the sick and the demon possessed; as a result, the diseases and the devils would depart out of their bodies (Acts 19:12). The Spirit is life because of righteousness must be understood as the remedy for the body that is under the death sentence because of sin. In the next verse we learn that if the Spirit of God dwells in you then He will make alive your mortal body. This may certainly be applied to the resurrection of the body from the dead but it also includes healing from sickness and disease. Paul said to the church at Galatia, "If you sow to the flesh you shall of the flesh reap corruption, but if you sow to the Spirit you shall reap everlasting life," (Galatians 6). Everlasting life is not only a duration of time but also a quality of life. The Lord Jesus came to give us life and life more abundantly. It is a verified biblical fact that a person living in a natural body can live without corruption for 2600 years. Elijah was taken up into the presence of God with an earthly body where he stands at this very time awaiting the time that he will return to the earth as one of the two witnesses in the last days. Peter also spoke of the fact that the divine nature which we have received has resulted in having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust (2 Peter 1:4). In fact, what we may understand from these passages of scripture is that walking in righteousness and sowing to the Spirit results in the benefits of divine health. Even in the Old Testament God blessed the people of Israel with protection against "these diseases" (Ex 15:26; Deut 7:15; 28:60). The Psalmist reminds us that we should not forget all of His benefits; for He cleanses all of our iniquities and heals all of our diseases (Psalms 103:3).
Blessings
Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Romans 9:10 "But if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin but the Spirit is life because of righteousness."
When Adam sinned, one of the judgments that came upon him was that his body - which was made from the dust of the earth - would return to the dust. This process of corruption made the body the host of disease and sickness. When the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ is being preached it targets as its number two enemy: sickness and disease. When Jesus was anointed of God to preach, His mission was to go about healing all those who were oppressed of the devil. He was manifested to destroy the works of the devil - which are not only the activities of sin but also the activities of sickness. When Jesus anointed His disciples He sent them to do the same thing: to cast out devils and to heal every kind of sickness and disease (the same is true of the seventy others also and of us today). In fact the anointing of this Gospel was so strong upon the Apostle Paul's life that handkerchiefs and aprons were taken from his body and placed upon the sick and the demon possessed; as a result, the diseases and the devils would depart out of their bodies (Acts 19:12). The Spirit is life because of righteousness must be understood as the remedy for the body that is under the death sentence because of sin. In the next verse we learn that if the Spirit of God dwells in you then He will make alive your mortal body. This may certainly be applied to the resurrection of the body from the dead but it also includes healing from sickness and disease. Paul said to the church at Galatia, "If you sow to the flesh you shall of the flesh reap corruption, but if you sow to the Spirit you shall reap everlasting life," (Galatians 6). Everlasting life is not only a duration of time but also a quality of life. The Lord Jesus came to give us life and life more abundantly. It is a verified biblical fact that a person living in a natural body can live without corruption for 2600 years. Elijah was taken up into the presence of God with an earthly body where he stands at this very time awaiting the time that he will return to the earth as one of the two witnesses in the last days. Peter also spoke of the fact that the divine nature which we have received has resulted in having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust (2 Peter 1:4). In fact, what we may understand from these passages of scripture is that walking in righteousness and sowing to the Spirit results in the benefits of divine health. Even in the Old Testament God blessed the people of Israel with protection against "these diseases" (Ex 15:26; Deut 7:15; 28:60). The Psalmist reminds us that we should not forget all of His benefits; for He cleanses all of our iniquities and heals all of our diseases (Psalms 103:3).
Blessings
Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Daily Bread
Acts 10:36 "The word that was sent to the sons of Israel announcing peace through Jesus Christ who is Lord of all."
The Hebrew word 'shalom' (peace) is far more than just a Hebrew way of saying hello. The expression declares a state of plenty and wellbeing and includes security, empowerment, and prosperity. When God's people walk inobedience to Him they enjoy His blessings and their "peace is like a river, and their righteousness as the waves of the sea" (Isaiah 48:18). Peace speaks of the fellowship and communion that God's people enjoy with Him exemplified in the Peace offerings (Exodus 20:24; Leviticus 3). God both secured Gideon's life and empowered Him with the words "Peace to you" insomuch that Gideon built an altar and called it YHWH is the source of our peace (Judges 6:23-24). God's peace is a "covenant of peace" that causes the wild beast to leave, brings safety in the wilderness, makes His people and their dwelling a blessing, results in showers of blessings which causes the trees to produce fruit and the earth to produce a harvest, it breaks the yoke of slavery and oppression giving God's people the dominion over all other powers (Ezekiel 34:25-29; Leviticus 26:6; Numbers 25:12). The peace that God gives is part of His armor and one of the benefits of the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 6:15; Gal 5:22). This peace comes to us through Jesus Christ who has removed the offence and disobedience and bestowed all theblessing of God upon us.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Acts 10:36 "The word that was sent to the sons of Israel announcing peace through Jesus Christ who is Lord of all."
The Hebrew word 'shalom' (peace) is far more than just a Hebrew way of saying hello. The expression declares a state of plenty and wellbeing and includes security, empowerment, and prosperity. When God's people walk inobedience to Him they enjoy His blessings and their "peace is like a river, and their righteousness as the waves of the sea" (Isaiah 48:18). Peace speaks of the fellowship and communion that God's people enjoy with Him exemplified in the Peace offerings (Exodus 20:24; Leviticus 3). God both secured Gideon's life and empowered Him with the words "Peace to you" insomuch that Gideon built an altar and called it YHWH is the source of our peace (Judges 6:23-24). God's peace is a "covenant of peace" that causes the wild beast to leave, brings safety in the wilderness, makes His people and their dwelling a blessing, results in showers of blessings which causes the trees to produce fruit and the earth to produce a harvest, it breaks the yoke of slavery and oppression giving God's people the dominion over all other powers (Ezekiel 34:25-29; Leviticus 26:6; Numbers 25:12). The peace that God gives is part of His armor and one of the benefits of the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 6:15; Gal 5:22). This peace comes to us through Jesus Christ who has removed the offence and disobedience and bestowed all theblessing of God upon us.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Daily bread
Acts 4:12 - And there is no salvation in any other one, indeed neither is there another name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved.
The Greek word 'soteria' is the corresponding noun to 'sotzo' (save, heal) and may be translated either salvation or deliverance. It was used for the first time in Exodus 14:13 when God was about to part the Red Sea so that the children of Israel could escape from the power of Pharaoh. The meaning of 'soteria' is deliverance from evil, whether political, physical, moral or cataclysmic and subsequently coming into a state of wholeness. The Greek word 'soteria' translates the Hebrew word 'Yeshuah' or 'Yasha' a total of 138 times from which the name of Jesus is derived 'Yehoshua' which means Yehoah's (Yahweh) salvation. There should be no question in anyone's mind as to God's intention when He uses the word salvation. It is the word that describes the complete and total deliverance from the power of sin and Satan. Let Jesus be your saviour!
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Acts 4:12 - And there is no salvation in any other one, indeed neither is there another name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved.
The Greek word 'soteria' is the corresponding noun to 'sotzo' (save, heal) and may be translated either salvation or deliverance. It was used for the first time in Exodus 14:13 when God was about to part the Red Sea so that the children of Israel could escape from the power of Pharaoh. The meaning of 'soteria' is deliverance from evil, whether political, physical, moral or cataclysmic and subsequently coming into a state of wholeness. The Greek word 'soteria' translates the Hebrew word 'Yeshuah' or 'Yasha' a total of 138 times from which the name of Jesus is derived 'Yehoshua' which means Yehoah's (Yahweh) salvation. There should be no question in anyone's mind as to God's intention when He uses the word salvation. It is the word that describes the complete and total deliverance from the power of sin and Satan. Let Jesus be your saviour!
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Daily Bread
Romans 8:4 "That the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit."
Paul provides insight to the facts regarding the righteousness of the Law and man's inability to walk in it in Romans chapter 7. He proves those who were depending upon the Law for righteousness were, in reality, under the law of sin and death and, therefore, unable to fulfill the righteousness of the Law. Paul argues that the Law was just, good, and holy but that those attempting to keep the Law were themselves sold under sin and, as a result, the law of sin was at work in their members (Romans 7:14, 21, 22, 23, 25 also 5:14, 17, 21). Now through the new birth which has brought the believer into Christ Jesus and thus into the life of the Spirit the righteousness of the Law is fulfilled in us by the divine ability that has been given to us. The righteousness of the Law is fulfilled because the believer does not depend upon human ability dominated by the law of sin but the Spirit of God reigning over a new creation. Now that the curse of the law of sin and death has been broken and the Spirit of God has come into the life of the believer sin has no more dominion. The child of God has been lifted beyond their strength and human discipline to the realm of the operation of Holy Spirit who is at work in their members (Romans 6:4-14). Obviously, we must choose to be obedient and walk in this grace that empowers us to please Father in all that we say and do. If we justify disobedience and friendship with the world we will find ourselves as defeated as those who were under the Law.
Be Blessed
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Romans 8:4 "That the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit."
Paul provides insight to the facts regarding the righteousness of the Law and man's inability to walk in it in Romans chapter 7. He proves those who were depending upon the Law for righteousness were, in reality, under the law of sin and death and, therefore, unable to fulfill the righteousness of the Law. Paul argues that the Law was just, good, and holy but that those attempting to keep the Law were themselves sold under sin and, as a result, the law of sin was at work in their members (Romans 7:14, 21, 22, 23, 25 also 5:14, 17, 21). Now through the new birth which has brought the believer into Christ Jesus and thus into the life of the Spirit the righteousness of the Law is fulfilled in us by the divine ability that has been given to us. The righteousness of the Law is fulfilled because the believer does not depend upon human ability dominated by the law of sin but the Spirit of God reigning over a new creation. Now that the curse of the law of sin and death has been broken and the Spirit of God has come into the life of the believer sin has no more dominion. The child of God has been lifted beyond their strength and human discipline to the realm of the operation of Holy Spirit who is at work in their members (Romans 6:4-14). Obviously, we must choose to be obedient and walk in this grace that empowers us to please Father in all that we say and do. If we justify disobedience and friendship with the world we will find ourselves as defeated as those who were under the Law.
Be Blessed
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Daily Bread
1 Corinthians 12:4 "Now there are divisions of Charismata but the same Spirit."
The best way to translate 'charismata' is "gifts of grace." The word charismata is derived from the Greek root 'charis' which means 'grace.' Grace means far more than just favor; grace is revealed to be the divine empowerment that supplies the saints with the ability to do and be everything that God has purposed for our lives. Grace may be extended to mean any divine act of God which results in either His protection or help but more than anything else His empowerment of an individual. Charismata (gifts) is found 17 times in the New Testament. It first appears in Romans 1:11, "that I may give you a share of spiritual 'charisma' (gift) to establish you." Although this word is used to refer to the gift of salvation in Romans 5:15, 16 and 6:23 it is also used of the spiritual gifts of prophecy, faith, and ministry in Romans 12:6-7. Paul opens up his letter to the Corinthians with this word recognizing that those at Corinth had the testimony of Christ confirmed in them which resulted in them having all of the 'charismata' (1:7). Charismata is used five times in the 12th chapter of 1 Corinthians all with respect to the gifts that are manifested as signs and wonders in the church (1 Corinthians 12: 4, 9, 28, 30, 31).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 Corinthians 12:4 "Now there are divisions of Charismata but the same Spirit."
The best way to translate 'charismata' is "gifts of grace." The word charismata is derived from the Greek root 'charis' which means 'grace.' Grace means far more than just favor; grace is revealed to be the divine empowerment that supplies the saints with the ability to do and be everything that God has purposed for our lives. Grace may be extended to mean any divine act of God which results in either His protection or help but more than anything else His empowerment of an individual. Charismata (gifts) is found 17 times in the New Testament. It first appears in Romans 1:11, "that I may give you a share of spiritual 'charisma' (gift) to establish you." Although this word is used to refer to the gift of salvation in Romans 5:15, 16 and 6:23 it is also used of the spiritual gifts of prophecy, faith, and ministry in Romans 12:6-7. Paul opens up his letter to the Corinthians with this word recognizing that those at Corinth had the testimony of Christ confirmed in them which resulted in them having all of the 'charismata' (1:7). Charismata is used five times in the 12th chapter of 1 Corinthians all with respect to the gifts that are manifested as signs and wonders in the church (1 Corinthians 12: 4, 9, 28, 30, 31).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Friday, June 09, 2006
Daily Bread
John 1:29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and he said, Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.
John gave witness to Jesus before Satan was allowed to tempt Him in the wilderness and now again after the temptation. Jesus was the spotless Lamb who was without sin before He went up into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. Jesus also remained the spotless Lamb after the temptation to which John once again gave testimony. This examination by John was similar to the examination that the priest had to give to ensure that the offerings were without blemish. Jesus was not just any kind of lamb; He was the Passover Lamb. The Passover was used by Jesus to declare the New Covenant and in fact was changed by Him to be the occasion of celebrating the birth of the New Covenant. It is the Passover supper which is the model for New Testament communion (1 Corinthians 11:20-30). The fact that Jesus is represented by the Passover lamb of the Old Testament is further emphasized in that He was killed at the time of the slaying of the Passover lamb (John19:14, 31; 18:28; also Jub. 49:10, 19; m Pesach 5:1; Philo, Laws 2.145; R. Natan in Mek. Bo 5). Jesus was shown to be a Lamb without spot or blemish and His body was to be taken an eaten and not a bone was to be broken, a treatment specifically required of the Passover lamb (John 19:31-37; Exodus 12:26; Numbers 9:12). Paul taught that Jesus was the Passover Lamb in 1 Corinthians 5:7. "for Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us." Peter also taught that Jesus was a "lamb without blemish and without spot." Finally, Isaiah the prophet called him a lamb (Isaiah 53:7; Acts 8:32). The blood of the Passover lamb represents the power that broke the yoke of the 10th plague and of the domination and trickery that Pharaoh exercised over Israel (Exodus 11:1). The Passover night was the time that God laid the sins of the people upon the firstborn. Only the blood of Passover lamb, which represented the blood of the firstborn, could expiate for a family that night (Exodus 13:2; 11-16). The blood of the Passover lamb represents redemption; for it was on that night that God redeemed all of Israel through their firstborn (Exodus 13:15; 6:6). It represents deliverance because God delivered Israel from bondage (Exodus 12:27). It represents the beginning ofGod's Covenant with Israel for it is "the beginning of months" and it is the event that set the covenant into motion that was promised to Abraham (Exodus12:1; 13:9; 6:4,7,8; Hebrews 8:9). The Passover represents the very day that Israel was born as a nation and, as such, the covenant people of God. Finally, it is the time that Israel was released from slavery to serve God and be His people (Exodus 13:3). The particular Greek word used for lamb in Exodus 12:5 is 'arnos.' This Greek word first occurs in Exodus 12:5 and then is used 33 times in the Septuagint afterwards. The Hebrew word that 'arnos' translatesis 'seh,' (lamb), which first occurs in Genesis 22:7 and 8 when Isaac askAbraham his father "where is the lamb" Abraham said, "God will provide for Himself a Lamb," a statement that can be easily understood as a prophecy of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. The offering of Isaac as a whole burnt offering unto God is the perfect typology for the offering of Jesus Christ by God the Father. Jesus said that Abraham saw His day, and it makes perfect sense that at the moment that Abraham was offering the ultimate sacrifice of His only begotten son on what would become the temple mount that he would have looked up and not only seen a lamb caught in the thicket but also the Lamb of God which John the Baptist announced in this verse.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
John 1:29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and he said, Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.
John gave witness to Jesus before Satan was allowed to tempt Him in the wilderness and now again after the temptation. Jesus was the spotless Lamb who was without sin before He went up into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. Jesus also remained the spotless Lamb after the temptation to which John once again gave testimony. This examination by John was similar to the examination that the priest had to give to ensure that the offerings were without blemish. Jesus was not just any kind of lamb; He was the Passover Lamb. The Passover was used by Jesus to declare the New Covenant and in fact was changed by Him to be the occasion of celebrating the birth of the New Covenant. It is the Passover supper which is the model for New Testament communion (1 Corinthians 11:20-30). The fact that Jesus is represented by the Passover lamb of the Old Testament is further emphasized in that He was killed at the time of the slaying of the Passover lamb (John19:14, 31; 18:28; also Jub. 49:10, 19; m Pesach 5:1; Philo, Laws 2.145; R. Natan in Mek. Bo 5). Jesus was shown to be a Lamb without spot or blemish and His body was to be taken an eaten and not a bone was to be broken, a treatment specifically required of the Passover lamb (John 19:31-37; Exodus 12:26; Numbers 9:12). Paul taught that Jesus was the Passover Lamb in 1 Corinthians 5:7. "for Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us." Peter also taught that Jesus was a "lamb without blemish and without spot." Finally, Isaiah the prophet called him a lamb (Isaiah 53:7; Acts 8:32). The blood of the Passover lamb represents the power that broke the yoke of the 10th plague and of the domination and trickery that Pharaoh exercised over Israel (Exodus 11:1). The Passover night was the time that God laid the sins of the people upon the firstborn. Only the blood of Passover lamb, which represented the blood of the firstborn, could expiate for a family that night (Exodus 13:2; 11-16). The blood of the Passover lamb represents redemption; for it was on that night that God redeemed all of Israel through their firstborn (Exodus 13:15; 6:6). It represents deliverance because God delivered Israel from bondage (Exodus 12:27). It represents the beginning ofGod's Covenant with Israel for it is "the beginning of months" and it is the event that set the covenant into motion that was promised to Abraham (Exodus12:1; 13:9; 6:4,7,8; Hebrews 8:9). The Passover represents the very day that Israel was born as a nation and, as such, the covenant people of God. Finally, it is the time that Israel was released from slavery to serve God and be His people (Exodus 13:3). The particular Greek word used for lamb in Exodus 12:5 is 'arnos.' This Greek word first occurs in Exodus 12:5 and then is used 33 times in the Septuagint afterwards. The Hebrew word that 'arnos' translatesis 'seh,' (lamb), which first occurs in Genesis 22:7 and 8 when Isaac askAbraham his father "where is the lamb" Abraham said, "God will provide for Himself a Lamb," a statement that can be easily understood as a prophecy of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. The offering of Isaac as a whole burnt offering unto God is the perfect typology for the offering of Jesus Christ by God the Father. Jesus said that Abraham saw His day, and it makes perfect sense that at the moment that Abraham was offering the ultimate sacrifice of His only begotten son on what would become the temple mount that he would have looked up and not only seen a lamb caught in the thicket but also the Lamb of God which John the Baptist announced in this verse.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Daily Bread
1 Corinthians 12: 1 - Now concerning the spiritual brethren I would not have you ignorant.
Paul lays out in this chapter and in Chapter 14 very specific details as to how the saints should function in the context of the church. In the opening statements that Paul made in this letter he testified that the saints at Corinth were not lacking in any of the 'charismata' (gifts), 1 Corinthians 1:7. However, Paul is now speaking of something that extends beyond the charismata.' At this juncture Paul is talking about the 'pneumatikos' (the spiritual). The Authorized Version adds a word that does not exist in any Greek manuscripts, 'gift.' To include this word actually narrows the focus from a broader application of the 'spiritual.' The 'spiritual' is the realm of the Spirit - including all of the activities of the Holy Spirit. The spiritual refers to everything that pertains to the Kingdom of God, the realm in which God and all of His heavenly host function. As Jesus said inMatthew 12:28, "If I cast out devils by the Spirit of God then the Kingdom of God is come to you." When the Kingdom of God is revealed it is revealed through the spiritual activity of the Holy Spirit. In fact, when Jesus ministered, the scripture says that he "went about all of the cities and villages teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom and healing all sickness and every disease among the people (Matthew 9:35). He also told His disciples to go and preach the gospel of the Kingdom by healing the sick, cleansing the lepers, raising the dead, casting out devils (Matthew 10:8; Luke 9:1-2). After that, Jesus sent out seventy other to declare the things of the Kingdom by the same signs and wonders(Luke 10:1,9,17). Finally, the same commission was given to everyone who believes, "These signs shall follow them that believe; in my name they will cast out devils; they will speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing it will not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick and they shall recover" (Mark 16:17). At the time that the Holy Spirit was poured out on the day of Pentecost the realms of the spiritual began to manifest through those in the church. They were baptized in Holy Spirit even as one may be baptized in water. And just as Jesus had promised out of their bellies began to flow rivers of living water, which is unlimited manifestations of the spiritual. Of the 27 times that this word is found in the New Testament Paul uses it 26 times to express the operation of the Holy Spirit through the saints in signs and wonders or to express that which belongs to the realms of God. The first time that Paul uses this word is in Romans 1:11 for the impartation of the spiritual into the saints. The first time that he uses the word in this letter to the church at Corinth is in 2:13 in which he describes how he ministers and uses it as the contrast to the realm of the natural. In chapter 2, Paul contrasts the spiritual 'pneumatikos,' which is the realm of God to the natural 'psuchikos,' which is the realm of men. The same contrast between the spiritual and the natural are made in 1 Corinthians 15:44-46). And, finally, both Jude and James define that which is of the natural realm 'psuchikos' as that which has not the Spirit (Jude 19; James 3:15).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 Corinthians 12: 1 - Now concerning the spiritual brethren I would not have you ignorant.
Paul lays out in this chapter and in Chapter 14 very specific details as to how the saints should function in the context of the church. In the opening statements that Paul made in this letter he testified that the saints at Corinth were not lacking in any of the 'charismata' (gifts), 1 Corinthians 1:7. However, Paul is now speaking of something that extends beyond the charismata.' At this juncture Paul is talking about the 'pneumatikos' (the spiritual). The Authorized Version adds a word that does not exist in any Greek manuscripts, 'gift.' To include this word actually narrows the focus from a broader application of the 'spiritual.' The 'spiritual' is the realm of the Spirit - including all of the activities of the Holy Spirit. The spiritual refers to everything that pertains to the Kingdom of God, the realm in which God and all of His heavenly host function. As Jesus said inMatthew 12:28, "If I cast out devils by the Spirit of God then the Kingdom of God is come to you." When the Kingdom of God is revealed it is revealed through the spiritual activity of the Holy Spirit. In fact, when Jesus ministered, the scripture says that he "went about all of the cities and villages teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom and healing all sickness and every disease among the people (Matthew 9:35). He also told His disciples to go and preach the gospel of the Kingdom by healing the sick, cleansing the lepers, raising the dead, casting out devils (Matthew 10:8; Luke 9:1-2). After that, Jesus sent out seventy other to declare the things of the Kingdom by the same signs and wonders(Luke 10:1,9,17). Finally, the same commission was given to everyone who believes, "These signs shall follow them that believe; in my name they will cast out devils; they will speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing it will not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick and they shall recover" (Mark 16:17). At the time that the Holy Spirit was poured out on the day of Pentecost the realms of the spiritual began to manifest through those in the church. They were baptized in Holy Spirit even as one may be baptized in water. And just as Jesus had promised out of their bellies began to flow rivers of living water, which is unlimited manifestations of the spiritual. Of the 27 times that this word is found in the New Testament Paul uses it 26 times to express the operation of the Holy Spirit through the saints in signs and wonders or to express that which belongs to the realms of God. The first time that Paul uses this word is in Romans 1:11 for the impartation of the spiritual into the saints. The first time that he uses the word in this letter to the church at Corinth is in 2:13 in which he describes how he ministers and uses it as the contrast to the realm of the natural. In chapter 2, Paul contrasts the spiritual 'pneumatikos,' which is the realm of God to the natural 'psuchikos,' which is the realm of men. The same contrast between the spiritual and the natural are made in 1 Corinthians 15:44-46). And, finally, both Jude and James define that which is of the natural realm 'psuchikos' as that which has not the Spirit (Jude 19; James 3:15).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Daily Bread
Daily Bread
1 John 3:5 "And we know that He was revealed to take away sins and in Him is no sin."
The only place that men can find freedom from the dominion of sin and power to live in the purity and the splendor of God's Holiness is in Christ Jesus. Being "in Christ," is an expression of the relationship that we have been given through His salvation. Instead of continuing to live our own life of defeat and failure, we now live a victorious life in Him. John refers to this place of purity and glory in chapter 1 verse 7 in terms of being "in the Light as He is in the Light." It is His presence that results in purity and power to live Holy. The sinless state of the saint who is willing to abide in Christ is emphasized in the next verse, "Everyone who abides in Him has no sin; everyone that sins has not seen Him nor known Him." When one remains in agreement and submission to Christ Jesus there cannot be sin because Christ Jesus will never lead us into such things. The same is true of being led by the Holy Spirit. We know that all who are led by the Spirit are the sons of God (Romans 8:14). If a person is always in submission to the Holy Spirit then they will never be led to do anything contrary to the will of God. A similar concept is found in verse 9 below which includes agreement and submission to the Word of God resulting in a sinless state. Being "in Christ" is a message that is delivered many times by the Apostle Paul, "If any man be in Christ he is a new creature," (2 Corinthians 5:17). The fact that the benefits of salvation are only received through our willingness to be "in Christ" is communicated in many verses of scripture throughout the New Testament such as; Romans 8:1,2,39; 12:5; 3:24;1 Co. 1:2,30; 15:18, 22; 2 Co. 1:21; 2:14, 17; Ga. 3:28; 6:15; Eph. 1:3, 10;2:6, 10, Col. 1:28, etc.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Daily Bread
1 John 3:5 "And we know that He was revealed to take away sins and in Him is no sin."
The only place that men can find freedom from the dominion of sin and power to live in the purity and the splendor of God's Holiness is in Christ Jesus. Being "in Christ," is an expression of the relationship that we have been given through His salvation. Instead of continuing to live our own life of defeat and failure, we now live a victorious life in Him. John refers to this place of purity and glory in chapter 1 verse 7 in terms of being "in the Light as He is in the Light." It is His presence that results in purity and power to live Holy. The sinless state of the saint who is willing to abide in Christ is emphasized in the next verse, "Everyone who abides in Him has no sin; everyone that sins has not seen Him nor known Him." When one remains in agreement and submission to Christ Jesus there cannot be sin because Christ Jesus will never lead us into such things. The same is true of being led by the Holy Spirit. We know that all who are led by the Spirit are the sons of God (Romans 8:14). If a person is always in submission to the Holy Spirit then they will never be led to do anything contrary to the will of God. A similar concept is found in verse 9 below which includes agreement and submission to the Word of God resulting in a sinless state. Being "in Christ" is a message that is delivered many times by the Apostle Paul, "If any man be in Christ he is a new creature," (2 Corinthians 5:17). The fact that the benefits of salvation are only received through our willingness to be "in Christ" is communicated in many verses of scripture throughout the New Testament such as; Romans 8:1,2,39; 12:5; 3:24;1 Co. 1:2,30; 15:18, 22; 2 Co. 1:21; 2:14, 17; Ga. 3:28; 6:15; Eph. 1:3, 10;2:6, 10, Col. 1:28, etc.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Daily Bread
Daily Bread
Colossians 2:2 "That your hearts might be encouraged joined together in love and unto all riches of the full assurance of the understanding unto an exact knowledge of the mystery of the Father God and the Christ."
There is a key given to us throughout the scripture that allows us to understand how to come into all of the fullness of God. Paul revealed in Ephesians 3 that as a result of knowing the love of Christ we can be filled with the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:19). Jesus made loving one another the precursor to fullness of joy (John 15:11). He also made this love onefor another the means by which all men would know that we are His disciples (John 13:35). Jesus made it very clear that if we would love Him that both He and the Father would come and make their dwelling with us (John 14:23). The realm of love is the realm where God dwells and so when we dwell in love we dwell in God (1 John 4:16). We learn that love is the greatest and most important thing of all. It is by love that faith works and it is through love that salvation was brought to us (1 Corinthians 13:13; Galatians 5:6; John 3:16). With 115 commands and examples given to us of the importance of love we should make it the foremost priority of our lives. Perhaps we spend so much time and effort searching for a model and a hidden key to revival and an increase in the anointing and the manifest presence of God while all of the time we pass over the answer. If we would only give ourselves over to His love continually and completely we would realize all of the things in God that we have desired. I am certain that on the Day of Judgment we are going to be primarily brought into question on how well we loved.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Colossians 2:2 "That your hearts might be encouraged joined together in love and unto all riches of the full assurance of the understanding unto an exact knowledge of the mystery of the Father God and the Christ."
There is a key given to us throughout the scripture that allows us to understand how to come into all of the fullness of God. Paul revealed in Ephesians 3 that as a result of knowing the love of Christ we can be filled with the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:19). Jesus made loving one another the precursor to fullness of joy (John 15:11). He also made this love onefor another the means by which all men would know that we are His disciples (John 13:35). Jesus made it very clear that if we would love Him that both He and the Father would come and make their dwelling with us (John 14:23). The realm of love is the realm where God dwells and so when we dwell in love we dwell in God (1 John 4:16). We learn that love is the greatest and most important thing of all. It is by love that faith works and it is through love that salvation was brought to us (1 Corinthians 13:13; Galatians 5:6; John 3:16). With 115 commands and examples given to us of the importance of love we should make it the foremost priority of our lives. Perhaps we spend so much time and effort searching for a model and a hidden key to revival and an increase in the anointing and the manifest presence of God while all of the time we pass over the answer. If we would only give ourselves over to His love continually and completely we would realize all of the things in God that we have desired. I am certain that on the Day of Judgment we are going to be primarily brought into question on how well we loved.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Monday, June 05, 2006
Fresh Bread - 6/5
Daily Bread
Colossians 1:8 "Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit."
The love that is given to the New Testament saint far exceeds human love. The love of God that has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit is divine love or Father's love (Romans 5:5; 1 John 2:15). This love that we are commanded to have one for another is a love that only functions by the Holy Spirit; therefore, to have it one must be "in the Spirit." Being "in the Spirit" is the result of having been born of the Spirit (John 3:6; Romans 8:9). The Greek phrase 'en pneumati' which literally means "in Spirit" is found 36 times in the New Testament. Jesus said if He cast out devils 'enpneumati' then the kingdom of God is come to you (Matthew 12:28). When Jesus was referring to the gift of prophecy recorded in scripture and spoken by David He said, "how then did David 'en pneumati' call him Lord" (Matthew22:43). Both of these scriptures serve to underscore the fact that 'inpneumati' refers to something that is produced by the Spirit through an individual whether it is love, faith, power to cast out devils, or the word of God spoken by prophecy.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Colossians 1:8 "Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit."
The love that is given to the New Testament saint far exceeds human love. The love of God that has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit is divine love or Father's love (Romans 5:5; 1 John 2:15). This love that we are commanded to have one for another is a love that only functions by the Holy Spirit; therefore, to have it one must be "in the Spirit." Being "in the Spirit" is the result of having been born of the Spirit (John 3:6; Romans 8:9). The Greek phrase 'en pneumati' which literally means "in Spirit" is found 36 times in the New Testament. Jesus said if He cast out devils 'enpneumati' then the kingdom of God is come to you (Matthew 12:28). When Jesus was referring to the gift of prophecy recorded in scripture and spoken by David He said, "how then did David 'en pneumati' call him Lord" (Matthew22:43). Both of these scriptures serve to underscore the fact that 'inpneumati' refers to something that is produced by the Spirit through an individual whether it is love, faith, power to cast out devils, or the word of God spoken by prophecy.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Saturday, June 03, 2006
Fresh Bread - 6/3
Daily Bread
Matthew 25:41 "And then He shall say to those at His left, depart from me you cursed into the eternal fire that was prepared for the devil and his angels."
The indication that Jesus gives is that hell was made for the devil and his angels. However, it is also certain that those who refuse the saving Grace of God that is only found in Christ Jesus will also be cast into this eternal judgment of fire. There is not much information in the Bible concerning the "devil's angels." In fact, of the 302 times that angels are mentioned in the Bible only eight of those times are evil angels mentioned (2 Peter 2:4; Jude 6; Revelation 9:11; 12:7, 9; 14:15). There are also three additional times in the New Testament that we may assume that the devil's angels are being referred to, Romans 8:38, Galatians 1:8, and Ephesians 6:12. There are several things that we do know about these evil angels: 1- The fate of these angels are sealed. 2- Some of them are already bound in hell (2 Peter 2:4; Jude 6). 3- Michael and his angels will fight against the devil and his angels, and they will be cast into the earth during the tribulation (Revelation 12:7,9). Although we know that Satan has no more power over the saints, we are still in a battle against him and his angels (John 12:31; Hebrews 2:14; 1 John 3:8; Ephesians 6:11-12). We have been given authority to drive back and destroy every work of Satan in the earth whether it comes in the form of sin, sickness, or disease. In fact, God desires that we even defeat Satan in the realms of death by raising the dead to life again. Finally, there are two other terms used in the Bible that refer to angels, sons of God, and stars (Genesis 6:2,4; Job 1:6, 2:1; 38:7 Isaiah 14;12-13; Daniel 8:10).
Matthew 25:41 "And then He shall say to those at His left, depart from me you cursed into the eternal fire that was prepared for the devil and his angels."
The indication that Jesus gives is that hell was made for the devil and his angels. However, it is also certain that those who refuse the saving Grace of God that is only found in Christ Jesus will also be cast into this eternal judgment of fire. There is not much information in the Bible concerning the "devil's angels." In fact, of the 302 times that angels are mentioned in the Bible only eight of those times are evil angels mentioned (2 Peter 2:4; Jude 6; Revelation 9:11; 12:7, 9; 14:15). There are also three additional times in the New Testament that we may assume that the devil's angels are being referred to, Romans 8:38, Galatians 1:8, and Ephesians 6:12. There are several things that we do know about these evil angels: 1- The fate of these angels are sealed. 2- Some of them are already bound in hell (2 Peter 2:4; Jude 6). 3- Michael and his angels will fight against the devil and his angels, and they will be cast into the earth during the tribulation (Revelation 12:7,9). Although we know that Satan has no more power over the saints, we are still in a battle against him and his angels (John 12:31; Hebrews 2:14; 1 John 3:8; Ephesians 6:11-12). We have been given authority to drive back and destroy every work of Satan in the earth whether it comes in the form of sin, sickness, or disease. In fact, God desires that we even defeat Satan in the realms of death by raising the dead to life again. Finally, there are two other terms used in the Bible that refer to angels, sons of God, and stars (Genesis 6:2,4; Job 1:6, 2:1; 38:7 Isaiah 14;12-13; Daniel 8:10).
Friday, June 02, 2006
Daily Bread
Revelation 1:5- "And from Jesus Christ the faithful witness the firstborn from among the dead and the ruler of the kings of the earth. The One who loves us and has washed us from our sins with His own blood."
There is a very striking change of tense in this verse that helps to underscore the fact that the blood of Jesus has freed us from every sin. The change in tense is between 'agaponti' (loves) and 'lusanti/lousanti' (loosed/washed). While 'love' is in the present tense 'loosed' is in the past tense. This alludes to the fact that Jesus freed us from our sins at the moment that we received His forgiveness. By the blood of Jesus we were set free to go out from the land of bondage and captivity to sin just as the children of Israel were set free from slavery on the night of the Passover. They were not being set free every day little by little but God gave them a complete deliverance when He came and saved them from their oppressors. He set them free so that they could serve Him, be His people and live in His land. Equally, we were set free from sin when we called upon the name of the Lord Jesus. We had, as it were, our own individual Passover (1 Corinthians 5:7). When we were set free we came into the realm of the Spirit of God. The Spirit of God is the realm of our inheritance where we are protected, guided, and provided for by God. Here in this place of His goodness we grow and mature in every dimension of God's ways through the activity of His love that has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5). In this grace and provision of God if we sin and confess our sin the blood of Jesus will cleanse us from any contamination that would separate us from God so that we can continue on in His blessings (1 John 1:9; 2:1).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Revelation 1:5- "And from Jesus Christ the faithful witness the firstborn from among the dead and the ruler of the kings of the earth. The One who loves us and has washed us from our sins with His own blood."
There is a very striking change of tense in this verse that helps to underscore the fact that the blood of Jesus has freed us from every sin. The change in tense is between 'agaponti' (loves) and 'lusanti/lousanti' (loosed/washed). While 'love' is in the present tense 'loosed' is in the past tense. This alludes to the fact that Jesus freed us from our sins at the moment that we received His forgiveness. By the blood of Jesus we were set free to go out from the land of bondage and captivity to sin just as the children of Israel were set free from slavery on the night of the Passover. They were not being set free every day little by little but God gave them a complete deliverance when He came and saved them from their oppressors. He set them free so that they could serve Him, be His people and live in His land. Equally, we were set free from sin when we called upon the name of the Lord Jesus. We had, as it were, our own individual Passover (1 Corinthians 5:7). When we were set free we came into the realm of the Spirit of God. The Spirit of God is the realm of our inheritance where we are protected, guided, and provided for by God. Here in this place of His goodness we grow and mature in every dimension of God's ways through the activity of His love that has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5). In this grace and provision of God if we sin and confess our sin the blood of Jesus will cleanse us from any contamination that would separate us from God so that we can continue on in His blessings (1 John 1:9; 2:1).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Fresh Bread - 6/1
Daily Bread
Ephesians 1:3 "Blessed is the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Who has blessed us in Christ with all spiritual blessings in heaven."
The Greek word 'pneumatikos' (spiritual) is only found in the New Testament. It was first used in Romans 1:11 with respect to Paul's desire to impart spiritual abilities or gifts to the brethren. This word is used more in First Corinthians than anywhere else. Its meaning is defined by 1 Corinthians 12:1, "Now concerning spiritual I would not have you ignorant," and 1 Corinthians 14:1, "Follow after love and desire spiritual and especially that you may prophesy." The context of this word refers to the manifestation of the Spirit that results in miracles and signs and wonders. Of course the spiritual also includes every realm of the Kingdom of God and spiritual understanding but the emphasis is placed on the operation of the Spirit through those in the church. When God set up the church He empowered the church to fully reveal the power and glory of the risen Savior Jesus Christ. If Jesus is to be revealed then we must yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit whose purpose is to make Him known (1 Corinthians 12:7-11).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Ephesians 1:3 "Blessed is the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Who has blessed us in Christ with all spiritual blessings in heaven."
The Greek word 'pneumatikos' (spiritual) is only found in the New Testament. It was first used in Romans 1:11 with respect to Paul's desire to impart spiritual abilities or gifts to the brethren. This word is used more in First Corinthians than anywhere else. Its meaning is defined by 1 Corinthians 12:1, "Now concerning spiritual I would not have you ignorant," and 1 Corinthians 14:1, "Follow after love and desire spiritual and especially that you may prophesy." The context of this word refers to the manifestation of the Spirit that results in miracles and signs and wonders. Of course the spiritual also includes every realm of the Kingdom of God and spiritual understanding but the emphasis is placed on the operation of the Spirit through those in the church. When God set up the church He empowered the church to fully reveal the power and glory of the risen Savior Jesus Christ. If Jesus is to be revealed then we must yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit whose purpose is to make Him known (1 Corinthians 12:7-11).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Fresh Bread - 5/31
Daily Bread
John 14:17 "He is the Spirit of Truth whom the world will not be able to receive because it neither sees Him nor recognizes Him. You know Him because He remains beside you and shall be in you."
The Holy Spirit who took the place of Jesus among the disciples and subsequently among the church came to dwell in them and also in all who will believe. This is the first time that it is made very clear just how the disciples will be one with Jesus and the Father. Although Jesus had previously revealed to them that "they who are born of the Spirit are Spirit," it is now made much plainer by the fact that God the Holy Spirit will come to live on the inside of all who believe. John also communicated this fact later in his First Epistle when he revealed that Jesus dwells on the inside of the believer "by the Spirit which He has given unto us" (1 John 3:24). According to 1 John 3:24, it is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit that results in our being one with Jesus. Subsequently, because we are one with Jesus we are also one with the Father (John 14:23). This unspeakable gift and blessing comes to us through simple obedience to God's word.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
John 14:17 "He is the Spirit of Truth whom the world will not be able to receive because it neither sees Him nor recognizes Him. You know Him because He remains beside you and shall be in you."
The Holy Spirit who took the place of Jesus among the disciples and subsequently among the church came to dwell in them and also in all who will believe. This is the first time that it is made very clear just how the disciples will be one with Jesus and the Father. Although Jesus had previously revealed to them that "they who are born of the Spirit are Spirit," it is now made much plainer by the fact that God the Holy Spirit will come to live on the inside of all who believe. John also communicated this fact later in his First Epistle when he revealed that Jesus dwells on the inside of the believer "by the Spirit which He has given unto us" (1 John 3:24). According to 1 John 3:24, it is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit that results in our being one with Jesus. Subsequently, because we are one with Jesus we are also one with the Father (John 14:23). This unspeakable gift and blessing comes to us through simple obedience to God's word.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Fresh Bread - 5/30
Daily Bread
John 14:1 "Do not allow your heart to be troubled have faith in God also have faith in me."
The heart is the spiritual place in man where faith works. Paul said, that the faith is in the heart and in the mouth (Romans 10:10). In keeping with the simile of the heart, we may understand the spiritual heart to be that which supplies life to the whole of the inner man as the physical heart supplies blood to the organs of the body. In Proverbs we learn that the heart is the place where the word is to be kept and that the heart is to be kept with all diligence for the issues of life flow out of it (Proverbs 4:20-23). At the end of this chapter Jesus says, "let not your heart be troubled and do not be afraid" (14:27). Jesus reveals how that fear is opposed to faith in His commands to those who were looking for a miracle asin Luke 8:50, "Fear not; believe only and she shall be made whole." Jesus also draws out the association of fear and doubt in the situation of Peter walking on the water who when he became afraid began to sink. Jesus revealed that the fear was associated with the doubt when He said, "why did you doubt" (Matthew 14:30-31). Don't look to your human ability today but keep the eyes of your heart fixed on His Word.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
John 14:1 "Do not allow your heart to be troubled have faith in God also have faith in me."
The heart is the spiritual place in man where faith works. Paul said, that the faith is in the heart and in the mouth (Romans 10:10). In keeping with the simile of the heart, we may understand the spiritual heart to be that which supplies life to the whole of the inner man as the physical heart supplies blood to the organs of the body. In Proverbs we learn that the heart is the place where the word is to be kept and that the heart is to be kept with all diligence for the issues of life flow out of it (Proverbs 4:20-23). At the end of this chapter Jesus says, "let not your heart be troubled and do not be afraid" (14:27). Jesus reveals how that fear is opposed to faith in His commands to those who were looking for a miracle asin Luke 8:50, "Fear not; believe only and she shall be made whole." Jesus also draws out the association of fear and doubt in the situation of Peter walking on the water who when he became afraid began to sink. Jesus revealed that the fear was associated with the doubt when He said, "why did you doubt" (Matthew 14:30-31). Don't look to your human ability today but keep the eyes of your heart fixed on His Word.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Fresh Bread - 5/29
Daily bread
Acts 10:4 "And he starred at him in fear and said, What is it Lord? And he said, your prayer and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God."
These prayers and offerings of Cornelius were viewed as the ascent offering (whole burnt offering) and memorial portions of the Old Testament that were turned into smoke for a sweet smelling aroma to the Lord (Leviticus 2:2, 9, 16; 5:12; 6:15). Paul also likens the offering in which the saints so win to the ministry as an ascent offering that the Lord receives as a sweet smelling aroma because it is holy an acceptable to Him (Philippians 4:18). The response of God's favor towards those who offer such offerings is underscored here. Because of the prayers and offerings that Cornelius gave continually he was chosen to be the first gentile to receive the riches of heaven, the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Acts 10:4 "And he starred at him in fear and said, What is it Lord? And he said, your prayer and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God."
These prayers and offerings of Cornelius were viewed as the ascent offering (whole burnt offering) and memorial portions of the Old Testament that were turned into smoke for a sweet smelling aroma to the Lord (Leviticus 2:2, 9, 16; 5:12; 6:15). Paul also likens the offering in which the saints so win to the ministry as an ascent offering that the Lord receives as a sweet smelling aroma because it is holy an acceptable to Him (Philippians 4:18). The response of God's favor towards those who offer such offerings is underscored here. Because of the prayers and offerings that Cornelius gave continually he was chosen to be the first gentile to receive the riches of heaven, the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Fresh Bread - 5/27
Daily Bread
John 1:1 "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God."
These are the first three words of Genesis 1:1, "In the beginning." The connection is made between the one who created all things and the one who has redeemed all things, "And you, Lord, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth: and the heavens are the works of Your hands," Heb. 1:10 also see Colossians 1:16. The whole world, all of creation, was created by Jesus Christ and He claims both personal ownership and power over it (John 1:10, Romans 11:36; 1 Corinthians 8:6). The pre-existence of Jesus is declared 7 times in the first chapter of John (John 1:1, 2, 3, 14, 15, 27, 30). The Greek word 'logos,' takes on a new dimension of meaning by its association with the Eternal God who was made flesh. The usage of logos here is that of a title instead of an act. Hebrews 11:3 refers to the action of God speaking wherein "the world was framed by the word (rhema) of God." The Hebrew equivalent for 'logos' is 'emrah' which is used for the word of God in the Torah as in Deuteronomy 33:9, and 'davar' which is used as the spoken word of God as in Exodus 4:28. The use of the Word as a title implies the revelation of God. The title given to Jesus Christ as the Word is not limited to a revelation at the time of redemption for the Word is not only eternally existing in the past as God and with God but also in the future as revealed in Revelation 19:13, "his name is called the Word (logos) of God." The fact that the Word was with God makes Him distinct from the Father and the Holy Spirit who are also identified many times throughout the scripture as God and unique from Jesus Christ. In fact in the New Testament there are 152 scriptures that specifically state a unique difference between Jesus Christ and the Father proving that they are two different individuals (Mt 2:21; 10:32, 33; 11:25, 27; 12:50; 15:13; 16:17; 18:10, 19, 35; 24:36; 25:34; 26:39, 42, 53; Mk 8:38; Lk 10:21, 22; 22:29; 23:34, 46, 49; Jn 4:21; 5:17, 19, 30; 6:32, 65; 8:16, 19, 28, 38, 42, 49, 54; 10:15, 17, 18, 29, 30, 32, 37; 11:41; 12:26, 27 13:1; 14:1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 20, 23, 24, 26, 28, 31; 15:1, 2, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 23, 24, 26; 16:3, 10, 15, 16, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 32; 17:1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26; 18:11; 20:17; 20:21; Rom 1:7; 15:6; 1 Cor 1:3; 8:6; 2 Cor 1:2, 3; 11:31; Gal 1:1,3; Eph 1:2, 3, 17; 3:14; 5:20; 6:23; Php 1:2; 2:11; Col 1:2, 3; 3:17; 1 Th 1:1, 3; 3:11; 2 Th 1:1,2; 2:16; 1 Ti 1:2; 2 Ti 1:2; Tit 1:4; Phm 3; Heb 1:5; 1 Pe 1:2, 3; 2 Pe 1:17; 1 Jn 1:3; 2:1; 2:22; 2 Jn 3; Jude 1; Rev 2:27; 3:5, 21). In the gospel of John, Jesus refers to God as His Father 87 times. There are 25 scriptures that show a distinction between Jesus and the Holy Spirit as unique individuals (Mt 1:18; 3:16; 4:1; Lk 4:1; 14; Jn 3:5; 7:39; 14:16, 17, 26; 15:26; 16:7, 8, 13, 14, 15; Acts 1:16; 2:38; 7:55; 10:38; Rom 8:11; 15:16; 1 Cor 12:3; 2 Cor 13:14; 1 Peter 1:2). There are four unique dimensions of Jesus Christ the Eternal Word revealed in this opening statement: 1- Jesus as the Word was there in the beginning. 2- He was with God and as such distinct from God. 3- He also was God, which both makes Him eternal and equal with God. 4- He was not only in the beginning of creation but was in the beginning with God, which further emphasizes both His eternalness and His uniqueness from the Father and the Holy Spirit. Jesus as the Word is the one who spoke all things into being (Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 11:3. According to 1 John 1:1, 2, He is the Word of life who was manifested to reveal the glory of God to all mankind. He has always existed because He is God (Micah 5:2; Colossians 1;17; 1 John 1;1; Hebrews 13:8; Genesis 21:3; Isaiah 40:28). The preexistence of Jesus is further proved by His own testimony that He existed before Abraham (John 8:58). John the Baptist announced Him as the one who existed before him; a preexistence not as man nor an angel but as God. In the incarnation God, the Word laid aside His position and power and took on the form of a human being (John 1:14; Philippians 2:7-8). After His resurrection He was again glorified with the same glory that He had with the Father before the world came into existence (1 John 17:5, 20:28; Revelation 1:8, 22:12-13, 16; Matthew1:23; 1 John 1:2; Hebrews 1:3, 8; Acts 10:36; Titus 2:13; 1 Corinthians 2:8; Psalms 24:8-10; Isaiah 9:6). After Jesus the eternal Word redeemed everything that He had created the Father highly exalted Him above everything and gave Him a name that is greater than all other names yet He is still called the Word (Ephesians 1:21; Acts 2:33; Revelation 19:13). Jesus is definitely distinct from the Father for Jesus Himself said, "the Father is greater than I" (John 14:28; 1 Corinthians 15:24, 27-28; John 20:17; Acts 7:55-56; Ephesians 1:20). Jesus also made it clear that He was going to return to the Father and called the Father His God (John 17; 20:17; Matthew 26:64).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
John 1:1 "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God."
These are the first three words of Genesis 1:1, "In the beginning." The connection is made between the one who created all things and the one who has redeemed all things, "And you, Lord, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth: and the heavens are the works of Your hands," Heb. 1:10 also see Colossians 1:16. The whole world, all of creation, was created by Jesus Christ and He claims both personal ownership and power over it (John 1:10, Romans 11:36; 1 Corinthians 8:6). The pre-existence of Jesus is declared 7 times in the first chapter of John (John 1:1, 2, 3, 14, 15, 27, 30). The Greek word 'logos,' takes on a new dimension of meaning by its association with the Eternal God who was made flesh. The usage of logos here is that of a title instead of an act. Hebrews 11:3 refers to the action of God speaking wherein "the world was framed by the word (rhema) of God." The Hebrew equivalent for 'logos' is 'emrah' which is used for the word of God in the Torah as in Deuteronomy 33:9, and 'davar' which is used as the spoken word of God as in Exodus 4:28. The use of the Word as a title implies the revelation of God. The title given to Jesus Christ as the Word is not limited to a revelation at the time of redemption for the Word is not only eternally existing in the past as God and with God but also in the future as revealed in Revelation 19:13, "his name is called the Word (logos) of God." The fact that the Word was with God makes Him distinct from the Father and the Holy Spirit who are also identified many times throughout the scripture as God and unique from Jesus Christ. In fact in the New Testament there are 152 scriptures that specifically state a unique difference between Jesus Christ and the Father proving that they are two different individuals (Mt 2:21; 10:32, 33; 11:25, 27; 12:50; 15:13; 16:17; 18:10, 19, 35; 24:36; 25:34; 26:39, 42, 53; Mk 8:38; Lk 10:21, 22; 22:29; 23:34, 46, 49; Jn 4:21; 5:17, 19, 30; 6:32, 65; 8:16, 19, 28, 38, 42, 49, 54; 10:15, 17, 18, 29, 30, 32, 37; 11:41; 12:26, 27 13:1; 14:1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 20, 23, 24, 26, 28, 31; 15:1, 2, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 23, 24, 26; 16:3, 10, 15, 16, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 32; 17:1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26; 18:11; 20:17; 20:21; Rom 1:7; 15:6; 1 Cor 1:3; 8:6; 2 Cor 1:2, 3; 11:31; Gal 1:1,3; Eph 1:2, 3, 17; 3:14; 5:20; 6:23; Php 1:2; 2:11; Col 1:2, 3; 3:17; 1 Th 1:1, 3; 3:11; 2 Th 1:1,2; 2:16; 1 Ti 1:2; 2 Ti 1:2; Tit 1:4; Phm 3; Heb 1:5; 1 Pe 1:2, 3; 2 Pe 1:17; 1 Jn 1:3; 2:1; 2:22; 2 Jn 3; Jude 1; Rev 2:27; 3:5, 21). In the gospel of John, Jesus refers to God as His Father 87 times. There are 25 scriptures that show a distinction between Jesus and the Holy Spirit as unique individuals (Mt 1:18; 3:16; 4:1; Lk 4:1; 14; Jn 3:5; 7:39; 14:16, 17, 26; 15:26; 16:7, 8, 13, 14, 15; Acts 1:16; 2:38; 7:55; 10:38; Rom 8:11; 15:16; 1 Cor 12:3; 2 Cor 13:14; 1 Peter 1:2). There are four unique dimensions of Jesus Christ the Eternal Word revealed in this opening statement: 1- Jesus as the Word was there in the beginning. 2- He was with God and as such distinct from God. 3- He also was God, which both makes Him eternal and equal with God. 4- He was not only in the beginning of creation but was in the beginning with God, which further emphasizes both His eternalness and His uniqueness from the Father and the Holy Spirit. Jesus as the Word is the one who spoke all things into being (Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 11:3. According to 1 John 1:1, 2, He is the Word of life who was manifested to reveal the glory of God to all mankind. He has always existed because He is God (Micah 5:2; Colossians 1;17; 1 John 1;1; Hebrews 13:8; Genesis 21:3; Isaiah 40:28). The preexistence of Jesus is further proved by His own testimony that He existed before Abraham (John 8:58). John the Baptist announced Him as the one who existed before him; a preexistence not as man nor an angel but as God. In the incarnation God, the Word laid aside His position and power and took on the form of a human being (John 1:14; Philippians 2:7-8). After His resurrection He was again glorified with the same glory that He had with the Father before the world came into existence (1 John 17:5, 20:28; Revelation 1:8, 22:12-13, 16; Matthew1:23; 1 John 1:2; Hebrews 1:3, 8; Acts 10:36; Titus 2:13; 1 Corinthians 2:8; Psalms 24:8-10; Isaiah 9:6). After Jesus the eternal Word redeemed everything that He had created the Father highly exalted Him above everything and gave Him a name that is greater than all other names yet He is still called the Word (Ephesians 1:21; Acts 2:33; Revelation 19:13). Jesus is definitely distinct from the Father for Jesus Himself said, "the Father is greater than I" (John 14:28; 1 Corinthians 15:24, 27-28; John 20:17; Acts 7:55-56; Ephesians 1:20). Jesus also made it clear that He was going to return to the Father and called the Father His God (John 17; 20:17; Matthew 26:64).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Friday, May 26, 2006
Fresh Bread - 5/26
Daily Bread
Acts 3:16 "And the faith upon His name has made this one whom you see and know strong; and the faith that is through Him gave to him this perfect health before you all."
The Greek preposition 'epi' is translated most often 'on, upon,' and although it is awkward, it is accurate. The next phrase uses yet another preposition 'dia' which is most commonly translated through, on account of, because of.' The healing power of God is manifested by "the faith upon His name" and "the faith that is through the name of Jesus." Jesus made it known that all power was given unto Him in heaven and in earth. Therefore, He commanded that when we preach or minister we are to do it in His name. The name of Jesus communicates faith and by the name of Jesus the miracle power of faith is released. Jesus said, "These signs shall follow them that believe, in my name," devils will be cast out, the believer will "speak with new tongues," they will "lay hands on the sick and they will recover" (Mark 16:17; Luke 24:47). Jesus is still at work today because He is the unchanging Savior who is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He is the unchanging Savior whose government is forever increasing. When Paul cast out devils or ministered healing he used the name of Jesus just as Peter and John used the name of Jesus. The sons of Sceva failed when they used the name of Jesus because they had no authority to use His name. They could not speak of Jesus as their Lord but only Jesus whom Paul preached. As a result, the evil spirit did not have to listen to them but rather attacked and hurt them (Acts 19:13). "But as many as would receive Him, who having faith in His name, to them He gave authority to be the sons of God" (John 1:12).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Acts 3:16 "And the faith upon His name has made this one whom you see and know strong; and the faith that is through Him gave to him this perfect health before you all."
The Greek preposition 'epi' is translated most often 'on, upon,' and although it is awkward, it is accurate. The next phrase uses yet another preposition 'dia' which is most commonly translated through, on account of, because of.' The healing power of God is manifested by "the faith upon His name" and "the faith that is through the name of Jesus." Jesus made it known that all power was given unto Him in heaven and in earth. Therefore, He commanded that when we preach or minister we are to do it in His name. The name of Jesus communicates faith and by the name of Jesus the miracle power of faith is released. Jesus said, "These signs shall follow them that believe, in my name," devils will be cast out, the believer will "speak with new tongues," they will "lay hands on the sick and they will recover" (Mark 16:17; Luke 24:47). Jesus is still at work today because He is the unchanging Savior who is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He is the unchanging Savior whose government is forever increasing. When Paul cast out devils or ministered healing he used the name of Jesus just as Peter and John used the name of Jesus. The sons of Sceva failed when they used the name of Jesus because they had no authority to use His name. They could not speak of Jesus as their Lord but only Jesus whom Paul preached. As a result, the evil spirit did not have to listen to them but rather attacked and hurt them (Acts 19:13). "But as many as would receive Him, who having faith in His name, to them He gave authority to be the sons of God" (John 1:12).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Thursday, May 25, 2006
Fresh Bread - 5/25
Daily Bread
Colossians 1:11- "In all power strengthened according to His glorious might unto all enduring patience and patience."
There are two Greek synonyms used here at the end of this verse, 'hupomone' and 'makrothumia.' The first one used in this verse, 'hupomone' refers tothe temper that will not break down under pressure. It may be translated as enduring or enduring patience. The second one 'makrothumia' refers to patience that does not retaliate when wronged. In order to deal with the disappointments and challenges of life correctly God has given us a divine empowerment. The challenges and responsibilities that are before us in obeying the great commission can be overwhelming. The earnest desire to mature to the measure of the maturity of the fullness of Christ unto a fully matured saint does not happen as quickly as many of us expect (Ephesians 1:13). In order to allow patience to have her perfect work so that we may be matured and lack nothing we need to be strengthened so that we will both continue to move in faith to do the things that are before us to do as well as remain confident that what God has begun in us He will also finish (James 1:4).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Colossians 1:11- "In all power strengthened according to His glorious might unto all enduring patience and patience."
There are two Greek synonyms used here at the end of this verse, 'hupomone' and 'makrothumia.' The first one used in this verse, 'hupomone' refers tothe temper that will not break down under pressure. It may be translated as enduring or enduring patience. The second one 'makrothumia' refers to patience that does not retaliate when wronged. In order to deal with the disappointments and challenges of life correctly God has given us a divine empowerment. The challenges and responsibilities that are before us in obeying the great commission can be overwhelming. The earnest desire to mature to the measure of the maturity of the fullness of Christ unto a fully matured saint does not happen as quickly as many of us expect (Ephesians 1:13). In order to allow patience to have her perfect work so that we may be matured and lack nothing we need to be strengthened so that we will both continue to move in faith to do the things that are before us to do as well as remain confident that what God has begun in us He will also finish (James 1:4).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Fresh Bread - 5/24
Daily Bread
Ephesians 3:7 "Of which I have become a servant according to the gift of the grace of God given to me according to the working power of His power."
There are two Greek words used here for power, 'energeia' (working power/supernatural strength/God's working) and 'dunamis' (the power of Pentecost/God's power). The ability that Paul had to represent Jesus and live the Christian life was supplied directly to him through the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit desires to supply us with supernatural strength every day. It is through a continual and ongoing empowerment by the Holy Spirit that we are enabled to live the life of Christ Jesus. There is nothing that man can do for God in his own ability and strength that will amount to anything. We must learn to depend upon the ability which God supplies to us through His working (energia). Paul makes it clear by using the words, 'given,' 'gift of the grace,' and 'His power' that he was doing nothing of himself; rather, it was God at work in him. It is not human discipline or religious practices that will enable us to do what God wants us to do. Jesus did nothing of Himself and it is certain that we can do nothing of ourselves. Right now the Holy Spirit has a supernatural supply of power for you and it is God's will that you be endued with His ability.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Ephesians 3:7 "Of which I have become a servant according to the gift of the grace of God given to me according to the working power of His power."
There are two Greek words used here for power, 'energeia' (working power/supernatural strength/God's working) and 'dunamis' (the power of Pentecost/God's power). The ability that Paul had to represent Jesus and live the Christian life was supplied directly to him through the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit desires to supply us with supernatural strength every day. It is through a continual and ongoing empowerment by the Holy Spirit that we are enabled to live the life of Christ Jesus. There is nothing that man can do for God in his own ability and strength that will amount to anything. We must learn to depend upon the ability which God supplies to us through His working (energia). Paul makes it clear by using the words, 'given,' 'gift of the grace,' and 'His power' that he was doing nothing of himself; rather, it was God at work in him. It is not human discipline or religious practices that will enable us to do what God wants us to do. Jesus did nothing of Himself and it is certain that we can do nothing of ourselves. Right now the Holy Spirit has a supernatural supply of power for you and it is God's will that you be endued with His ability.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
5/23
Daily Bread
Ephesians 1:19 "and what is the exceeding greatness of His power to us who believe, according to the working power of His mighty power."
Our wonderful Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has really loaded us up with all of the divine power and ability that we will ever need for anything that we will ever face. The biggest challenge is on our part to believe Him and look to Him for help in time of need. If we are willing to look to Him for help then He will supply all of our needs according to His riches in glory. There are four 'power' words in this one verse of scripture: 1- dunamis; 2- energia; 3- kratos; 4- ischus. The Greek word 'dunamis' is defined by the virtue that went out of Jesus to heal the woman with the issue of blood and the power that the church would receive once the Holy Spirit came upon them. It has been said that dunamis is the ability to accomplish the promise; energeia is brute or muscular power or working efficiency, but by application "supernatural strength" (Philippians 3:21, Colossians 1:29); kratos is the power to overcome obstacles, have dominion or controlling power; and ischus is the potential power the power that will come to bear when needed (1 Peter 4:11). The word 'ischus' is first used in Genesis 4:12 "When you till the ground it will not yield her strength to you." This use of four synonyms for power in one verse is similar to Ephesians 6:10, which commands the saints to be endunamoo (powerful) in the Lord and in the kratos of His ischus. The Almighty wants us to have a strong assurance of the faith to know for certain that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. Father so wanted Abraham to be certain of the promise that He swore an oath to him; and in order to make us certain Jesus sent the promise of the Father to both endue us and seal us with His Spirit (Luke 24:49; Hebrews 6:13-19; Hebrews 10: 22-23).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Ephesians 1:19 "and what is the exceeding greatness of His power to us who believe, according to the working power of His mighty power."
Our wonderful Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has really loaded us up with all of the divine power and ability that we will ever need for anything that we will ever face. The biggest challenge is on our part to believe Him and look to Him for help in time of need. If we are willing to look to Him for help then He will supply all of our needs according to His riches in glory. There are four 'power' words in this one verse of scripture: 1- dunamis; 2- energia; 3- kratos; 4- ischus. The Greek word 'dunamis' is defined by the virtue that went out of Jesus to heal the woman with the issue of blood and the power that the church would receive once the Holy Spirit came upon them. It has been said that dunamis is the ability to accomplish the promise; energeia is brute or muscular power or working efficiency, but by application "supernatural strength" (Philippians 3:21, Colossians 1:29); kratos is the power to overcome obstacles, have dominion or controlling power; and ischus is the potential power the power that will come to bear when needed (1 Peter 4:11). The word 'ischus' is first used in Genesis 4:12 "When you till the ground it will not yield her strength to you." This use of four synonyms for power in one verse is similar to Ephesians 6:10, which commands the saints to be endunamoo (powerful) in the Lord and in the kratos of His ischus. The Almighty wants us to have a strong assurance of the faith to know for certain that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. Father so wanted Abraham to be certain of the promise that He swore an oath to him; and in order to make us certain Jesus sent the promise of the Father to both endue us and seal us with His Spirit (Luke 24:49; Hebrews 6:13-19; Hebrews 10: 22-23).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Monday, May 22, 2006
Fresh Bread - 5/22
Daily Bread
Ephesians 1:10- Finally be powerful in the Lord and in the strength of His manifest power.
There is no reason for the child of God to ever suffer defeat. God who is faithful and cannot lie has given us his power and strength. In fact, this is a command directly from the Holy Spirit. God demands that we be strong or powerful in Him. It is His spoken word that produces the faith in those who hear. If we agree with God the Holy Spirit will empower us and we will find that the Omnipotent One has given us His power. The Greek word is 'endunamoo' which is a compound word of 'en' and 'dunamoo.' The Greek word 'dunamoo' is a verb derived from the noun 'dunamis,' which is defined by its New Testament usage as the power or divine ability that is given to the saints through baptism in the Holy Spirit (Luke 24:49). The Greek word 'kratos' may be understood as 'manifest power.' It is primarily used of God's power or strength in the New Testament in association with a deed manifesting great power (Luke 1:51; Acts 2:22). It may also be understood as the power to rule or to control.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Ephesians 1:10- Finally be powerful in the Lord and in the strength of His manifest power.
There is no reason for the child of God to ever suffer defeat. God who is faithful and cannot lie has given us his power and strength. In fact, this is a command directly from the Holy Spirit. God demands that we be strong or powerful in Him. It is His spoken word that produces the faith in those who hear. If we agree with God the Holy Spirit will empower us and we will find that the Omnipotent One has given us His power. The Greek word is 'endunamoo' which is a compound word of 'en' and 'dunamoo.' The Greek word 'dunamoo' is a verb derived from the noun 'dunamis,' which is defined by its New Testament usage as the power or divine ability that is given to the saints through baptism in the Holy Spirit (Luke 24:49). The Greek word 'kratos' may be understood as 'manifest power.' It is primarily used of God's power or strength in the New Testament in association with a deed manifesting great power (Luke 1:51; Acts 2:22). It may also be understood as the power to rule or to control.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Fresh Bread - 5/20
Daily Bread
1 John 2:16 "Because all that is in the world: the desire of the flesh and the desire of the eyes and the pride of life, is not of the Father but is of the world."
The satanic forces of hell operate in the realm of the world. Their primary means of enticing men and leading them away from God is through that which may be seen, felt, and gained. One of the first things that we may ask iswhat is the difference between the "desire of the flesh" and "the desire ofthe eye." The "desire of the eye" are those things that are attractive to view that could led you away from the will of God and His purpose. For example, Eve saw the forbidden tree in Genesis 3:6 as, "pleasurable to the eye and desirable." She did not have this attraction because of an evil nature at work in her nor was it an evil act in and of itself; rather it became the means by which she was enticed to eat of that which God had forbidden. When men look on things that are forbidden by God they open themselves up to be lead away into an evil desire that results in immorality and ungodliness. Therefore, we need to recognize that it is essential for us to make a covenant with our eyes to turn away and not behold that which could lead us into disobedience. It may be said that "the desire of the eye" is that which entices the eye and "the desire of the flesh" is that which entices the body. The eye looks for that which is beautiful and the body for that which is pleasurable. Now one may say God made that which is beautiful and pleasurable and that is true; however, we must also recognize that it is in this material realm that the satanic forces have set up their offensive against man and the will of God. It is absolutely essential they we learn to choose good and refuse evil. In the Old Testament, God expected His people to discipline themselves and be committed to obeying Him in all things. Even though they were not born from above and were without the change of heart and motive that is given to us by the divine nature yet it was their responsibility not to be involved with following after those things that would lead them into sin. "You shall remember all the commandments of the Lord to do them, and you shall not turn back toward the desire of your own heart and your eyes" (Numbers 15:39).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 John 2:16 "Because all that is in the world: the desire of the flesh and the desire of the eyes and the pride of life, is not of the Father but is of the world."
The satanic forces of hell operate in the realm of the world. Their primary means of enticing men and leading them away from God is through that which may be seen, felt, and gained. One of the first things that we may ask iswhat is the difference between the "desire of the flesh" and "the desire ofthe eye." The "desire of the eye" are those things that are attractive to view that could led you away from the will of God and His purpose. For example, Eve saw the forbidden tree in Genesis 3:6 as, "pleasurable to the eye and desirable." She did not have this attraction because of an evil nature at work in her nor was it an evil act in and of itself; rather it became the means by which she was enticed to eat of that which God had forbidden. When men look on things that are forbidden by God they open themselves up to be lead away into an evil desire that results in immorality and ungodliness. Therefore, we need to recognize that it is essential for us to make a covenant with our eyes to turn away and not behold that which could lead us into disobedience. It may be said that "the desire of the eye" is that which entices the eye and "the desire of the flesh" is that which entices the body. The eye looks for that which is beautiful and the body for that which is pleasurable. Now one may say God made that which is beautiful and pleasurable and that is true; however, we must also recognize that it is in this material realm that the satanic forces have set up their offensive against man and the will of God. It is absolutely essential they we learn to choose good and refuse evil. In the Old Testament, God expected His people to discipline themselves and be committed to obeying Him in all things. Even though they were not born from above and were without the change of heart and motive that is given to us by the divine nature yet it was their responsibility not to be involved with following after those things that would lead them into sin. "You shall remember all the commandments of the Lord to do them, and you shall not turn back toward the desire of your own heart and your eyes" (Numbers 15:39).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Friday, May 19, 2006
Fresh Bread - 5/19
Daily Bread
1 Peter 1:2 "According to Father God's foreknowledge in sanctification of Spirit unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ, grace to you and peace be multiplied."
The Greek word 'hagiasmo' means to be made holy. We were made holy by the Spirit because it was through the Holy Spirit that we were born of God. God made us holy through the new birth so that we could agree with Him and be obedient to His ways. God made us holy and this is far better than if he had made us kings. We should delight in holiness and feel fortunate that we are allowed to participate in the ways of the Almighty. He made us holy by giving us a divine nature and filling us with His Holy Spirit. When we were made a new creation we were renewed in righteousness and true holiness after the image of God (Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10). God wants us to be renewed in the Spirit of our minds. He wants us to think differently about ourselves. The renewed thoughts or the new way that you are supposed to think about what God has done for you through Jesus Christ is that you are a holy man or woman (Ephesians 4:23; Acts 10:15).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
1 Peter 1:2 "According to Father God's foreknowledge in sanctification of Spirit unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ, grace to you and peace be multiplied."
The Greek word 'hagiasmo' means to be made holy. We were made holy by the Spirit because it was through the Holy Spirit that we were born of God. God made us holy through the new birth so that we could agree with Him and be obedient to His ways. God made us holy and this is far better than if he had made us kings. We should delight in holiness and feel fortunate that we are allowed to participate in the ways of the Almighty. He made us holy by giving us a divine nature and filling us with His Holy Spirit. When we were made a new creation we were renewed in righteousness and true holiness after the image of God (Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10). God wants us to be renewed in the Spirit of our minds. He wants us to think differently about ourselves. The renewed thoughts or the new way that you are supposed to think about what God has done for you through Jesus Christ is that you are a holy man or woman (Ephesians 4:23; Acts 10:15).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Thursday, May 18, 2006
Fresh Bread - 5/18
Daily Bread
Acts 1:2 "Until the day He was taken up, having given commandments by the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom He had chosen."
Those things which Jesus did He did through complete submission to the Holy Spirit who empowered Him with the divine ability to do the works. Everything that Jesus did and said He attributed to the Father who was doing the work. Jesus came not to do His own will but the will of the Father who had sentHim. He never said anything unless He heard the Father say it. The Father showed Him what works He was supposed to do and He did them in total submission and obedience. The commands that Jesus gave to the disciples hinged upon their being empowered with the same divine power that He had received (Acts 10:38). His commandments to them demanded that they have the same obedience and submission that He had. Before Jesus began His ministry it was necessary for Him to be empowered by the Holy Spirit. It was therefore essential that those who would represent Him be endued with the same power. The commandments that Jesus gave to His apostles focused on their responsibility to represent Him and to advance the Kingdom of God after His departure. He said, "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believes and is baptized shall be saved; but he that does not believe shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name they shall cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover." (Mark 16:15-18). "All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. You shall go therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world." (Matthew 28:18-20). In summation, Luke writes an overview of the commandments that Jesus gave underscoring their need to "wait" until they were empowered with the same divine ability, "Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And you are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but wait in the city of Jerusalem, until you are endued with power from on high" (Luke 24:46-49).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Acts 1:2 "Until the day He was taken up, having given commandments by the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom He had chosen."
Those things which Jesus did He did through complete submission to the Holy Spirit who empowered Him with the divine ability to do the works. Everything that Jesus did and said He attributed to the Father who was doing the work. Jesus came not to do His own will but the will of the Father who had sentHim. He never said anything unless He heard the Father say it. The Father showed Him what works He was supposed to do and He did them in total submission and obedience. The commands that Jesus gave to the disciples hinged upon their being empowered with the same divine power that He had received (Acts 10:38). His commandments to them demanded that they have the same obedience and submission that He had. Before Jesus began His ministry it was necessary for Him to be empowered by the Holy Spirit. It was therefore essential that those who would represent Him be endued with the same power. The commandments that Jesus gave to His apostles focused on their responsibility to represent Him and to advance the Kingdom of God after His departure. He said, "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believes and is baptized shall be saved; but he that does not believe shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name they shall cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover." (Mark 16:15-18). "All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. You shall go therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world." (Matthew 28:18-20). In summation, Luke writes an overview of the commandments that Jesus gave underscoring their need to "wait" until they were empowered with the same divine ability, "Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And you are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but wait in the city of Jerusalem, until you are endued with power from on high" (Luke 24:46-49).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Fresh Bread - 5/17
Daily Bread
Ephesians 1:1- Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the holy ones, which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus;"
Those who have been born of God are called saints in the New Testament 60 times and are only referred to as Christians three times. Therefore, it is more proper to refer to a New Testament child of God as a saint. Many think of this as an earned status but in reality it is part of God's unspeakable gift to us. The Greek adjective 'hagios' may be translated 'sacred, holy or saint.' It is used of God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, of angels, and of men who are consecrated to God. Its meaning implies that which is made pure, perfect, worthy of God, and that which is set apart unto the service of God. This word is used 233 times in the New Testament and 831 times in the Septuagint. It first occurs in the Old Testament in Exodus 3:5, when God commanded Moses to remove his shoes because he stood upon holy ground. The Greek word 'hagios' is translated from the Hebrew word 'kodesh.' The first occurrence in the New Testament of 'hagios' is in Matthew 1:18 "and she was found with child of the Holy Ghost." Those who are holy or saints are those who have been sanctified in Christ Jesus (Acts 26:18; 1 Corinthians 1:30; Hebrews 2;11; 10:10; 13:12). Holiness or purity is supplied to us through the purification that is in the blood of Jesus. The blood purifies by absorbing all sin and transmitting it into the offering, which in this case is not a goat or calf but the Lamb of God, Christ Jesus. Jesus took all sin and bore it in his body and carried it away to Calvary where it was justly put to death. Our sanctification is found in the fact that we were crucified with Christ, we were buried by baptism into His death, we were raised up together with Him, and we are now placed in a position of authority with Him in the Heavens. Our life of sin, the old nature, was crucified with Christ insomuch that Christ is not only our representative but we were also crucified with Him that the body of sin might be destroyed (Romans 6:3; Colossians 2:11-12). As new creatures begotten of the Father being born by the Spirit we are holy and pure (1 Timothy 1;5; 3:9; 2 Timothy 2:22; Titus 1:15; 1 Peter 1:22; 2 Peter 3:1; Matthew 5:8).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Ephesians 1:1- Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the holy ones, which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus;"
Those who have been born of God are called saints in the New Testament 60 times and are only referred to as Christians three times. Therefore, it is more proper to refer to a New Testament child of God as a saint. Many think of this as an earned status but in reality it is part of God's unspeakable gift to us. The Greek adjective 'hagios' may be translated 'sacred, holy or saint.' It is used of God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, of angels, and of men who are consecrated to God. Its meaning implies that which is made pure, perfect, worthy of God, and that which is set apart unto the service of God. This word is used 233 times in the New Testament and 831 times in the Septuagint. It first occurs in the Old Testament in Exodus 3:5, when God commanded Moses to remove his shoes because he stood upon holy ground. The Greek word 'hagios' is translated from the Hebrew word 'kodesh.' The first occurrence in the New Testament of 'hagios' is in Matthew 1:18 "and she was found with child of the Holy Ghost." Those who are holy or saints are those who have been sanctified in Christ Jesus (Acts 26:18; 1 Corinthians 1:30; Hebrews 2;11; 10:10; 13:12). Holiness or purity is supplied to us through the purification that is in the blood of Jesus. The blood purifies by absorbing all sin and transmitting it into the offering, which in this case is not a goat or calf but the Lamb of God, Christ Jesus. Jesus took all sin and bore it in his body and carried it away to Calvary where it was justly put to death. Our sanctification is found in the fact that we were crucified with Christ, we were buried by baptism into His death, we were raised up together with Him, and we are now placed in a position of authority with Him in the Heavens. Our life of sin, the old nature, was crucified with Christ insomuch that Christ is not only our representative but we were also crucified with Him that the body of sin might be destroyed (Romans 6:3; Colossians 2:11-12). As new creatures begotten of the Father being born by the Spirit we are holy and pure (1 Timothy 1;5; 3:9; 2 Timothy 2:22; Titus 1:15; 1 Peter 1:22; 2 Peter 3:1; Matthew 5:8).
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Fresh Bread - 5/16
Daily Bread
Ephesians 1:7 "In whom we possess redemption through his blood, the release of trespasses according to the riches of his grace."
Have you ever wondered just how forgiven you are? Has forgiveness just excused your debt or has it removed it? When you forgive others is the debt excused or is it totally released and forever canceled? When God forgives you does He restore you to the inheritance and position that you previously had with Him? Are you able to restore others to the position that they had with you before they trespassed against you? The answer to these questions is realized in the meaning of forgiveness! Sometimes the meaning of words such as forgiveness can be confused by misapplication and improper context. However, when we take a moment to remind ourselves of the definition we get a fresh look at the meaning. Forgiveness plays a crucial role in our walk with God because it is the means by which we have been restored to a place of relationship with Him. Forgiveness is also a responsibility that God has placed upon us. If we are unwilling to forgive then we will not be forgiven. However, if we will forgive those who trespass against us our Father in heaven will forgive us 490 times in a day if we need it. The fact is that forgiveness literally means 'release'. The Greek word 'aphesis' comes from the word 'aphiemi' which means 'sent away.' It also translates the Hebrew words 'shalch' and 'deror' in the Septuagint as in Isaiah 61:1 it mean 'sent away' and 'released' respectively. The Greek word 'aphesis' appears 50 times in the Septuagint. It translates the Hebrew word 'Jubile' in Numbers 36:4 and 'release' in Deuteronomy 15:2 which describes God's release of debts at the end of every seven years or the release and complete restoration at the end of every 50 years. Forgiveness completely erases the offense so that there are no future repercussions of the wrongdoing. Forgiveness also restores everything to the offender so that they may enjoy the position that they held prior to the trespass. When we forgive others from our heart then we can never allow ourselves to treat that individual on the basis of their offense. We must look at their debt as paid in full and the relationship totally restored to the place of a perfect friend. This is the kind of forgiveness that our Heavenly Father has provided for us so long as we will provide the same to those who trespass against us.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Ephesians 1:7 "In whom we possess redemption through his blood, the release of trespasses according to the riches of his grace."
Have you ever wondered just how forgiven you are? Has forgiveness just excused your debt or has it removed it? When you forgive others is the debt excused or is it totally released and forever canceled? When God forgives you does He restore you to the inheritance and position that you previously had with Him? Are you able to restore others to the position that they had with you before they trespassed against you? The answer to these questions is realized in the meaning of forgiveness! Sometimes the meaning of words such as forgiveness can be confused by misapplication and improper context. However, when we take a moment to remind ourselves of the definition we get a fresh look at the meaning. Forgiveness plays a crucial role in our walk with God because it is the means by which we have been restored to a place of relationship with Him. Forgiveness is also a responsibility that God has placed upon us. If we are unwilling to forgive then we will not be forgiven. However, if we will forgive those who trespass against us our Father in heaven will forgive us 490 times in a day if we need it. The fact is that forgiveness literally means 'release'. The Greek word 'aphesis' comes from the word 'aphiemi' which means 'sent away.' It also translates the Hebrew words 'shalch' and 'deror' in the Septuagint as in Isaiah 61:1 it mean 'sent away' and 'released' respectively. The Greek word 'aphesis' appears 50 times in the Septuagint. It translates the Hebrew word 'Jubile' in Numbers 36:4 and 'release' in Deuteronomy 15:2 which describes God's release of debts at the end of every seven years or the release and complete restoration at the end of every 50 years. Forgiveness completely erases the offense so that there are no future repercussions of the wrongdoing. Forgiveness also restores everything to the offender so that they may enjoy the position that they held prior to the trespass. When we forgive others from our heart then we can never allow ourselves to treat that individual on the basis of their offense. We must look at their debt as paid in full and the relationship totally restored to the place of a perfect friend. This is the kind of forgiveness that our Heavenly Father has provided for us so long as we will provide the same to those who trespass against us.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Monday, May 15, 2006
Fresh Bread - 5/15
Romans 8:29- Who knowing beforehand and having predestined us to beconformed to the image of His Son that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.
The calling and purpose for which God has predestined all who will believe is to be in every way just like Jesus (Isaiah 60:1; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10; Galatians 1:15-16; John 17:22; 1:16). Jesus is the express image of the Father and we were created in Christ Jesus to be conformed to His image (Hebrews 1:3). Jesus is the pattern Son. He is God's example that is set before us and we are called to live and to overcome even as He did (1 Peter 2:21-22; 1 John 2:29; 3:7; 4:17; Revelation 3:21). It is the Spirit of the Son that has come into our hearts that imparts the divine power and authority to walk in the image of the only begotten Son, Christ Jesus. God desires absolute conformity. Will you participate? All we must do is yield to the Spirit of Grace who will do the work.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.com
Note: If you would like to start receiving these emails daily in your Inbox, go to http://www.abidingplace.org/. You can start receiving these daily morsels one of 2 ways: either click on "Email the Pastor" and send an email or simply provide your email address at the bottom of the home page in the box where it says, "Join Our Mailing List."
The calling and purpose for which God has predestined all who will believe is to be in every way just like Jesus (Isaiah 60:1; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10; Galatians 1:15-16; John 17:22; 1:16). Jesus is the express image of the Father and we were created in Christ Jesus to be conformed to His image (Hebrews 1:3). Jesus is the pattern Son. He is God's example that is set before us and we are called to live and to overcome even as He did (1 Peter 2:21-22; 1 John 2:29; 3:7; 4:17; Revelation 3:21). It is the Spirit of the Son that has come into our hearts that imparts the divine power and authority to walk in the image of the only begotten Son, Christ Jesus. God desires absolute conformity. Will you participate? All we must do is yield to the Spirit of Grace who will do the work.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.com
Note: If you would like to start receiving these emails daily in your Inbox, go to http://www.abidingplace.org/. You can start receiving these daily morsels one of 2 ways: either click on "Email the Pastor" and send an email or simply provide your email address at the bottom of the home page in the box where it says, "Join Our Mailing List."
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Daily Bread
1 Peter 4:21 - “Which also corresponds now to our salvation; baptism not the putting away of a filthy flesh but the answer of a good conscience towards God by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.”
The Greek word used here for 'corresponds' is 'antitupon' which may be understood to literally mean 'anti-type.' However, its usage in Classical Greek is defined as 'echoing, representing, prototype.' This Greek word is only found here and in Hebrews 9:24, "For Christ has not entered into the holy places made with hands, corresponding to the true, but into heaven..." The Greek word 'tupos' from which the second part of this compound word is derived is found about 16 times in the New Testament. One example of its usage is in Hebrew 8:5, where it may be translated “image or pattern”. The first occurrence of this word in the New Testament is in John 20:25 where it is translated 'print;' “...unless I see in his hands the print of the nails...” The disobedient during the time of Noah were all destroyed through water baptism, whereas, now the anti-type or the anti-pattern of water baptism saves us. Paul causes us to understand that we were buried with Christ by baptism into His death - a miracle event of salvation wherein we are crucified with Christ. The blood of Jesus and the regeneration of the Holy Spirit, “puts away the filth of the flesh” not baptism in water. However, Peter equates this anti-type of baptism to the inquiry of a good conscience towards God. In that water baptism is symbolic of resurrection as brought out by Paul in Romans 6:2-6, we are able to discern that Peter is bringing together several types. However, he is definitely denying remission of sins (filth of the flesh) by water baptism.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
1 Peter 4:21 - “Which also corresponds now to our salvation; baptism not the putting away of a filthy flesh but the answer of a good conscience towards God by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.”
The Greek word used here for 'corresponds' is 'antitupon' which may be understood to literally mean 'anti-type.' However, its usage in Classical Greek is defined as 'echoing, representing, prototype.' This Greek word is only found here and in Hebrews 9:24, "For Christ has not entered into the holy places made with hands, corresponding to the true, but into heaven..." The Greek word 'tupos' from which the second part of this compound word is derived is found about 16 times in the New Testament. One example of its usage is in Hebrew 8:5, where it may be translated “image or pattern”. The first occurrence of this word in the New Testament is in John 20:25 where it is translated 'print;' “...unless I see in his hands the print of the nails...” The disobedient during the time of Noah were all destroyed through water baptism, whereas, now the anti-type or the anti-pattern of water baptism saves us. Paul causes us to understand that we were buried with Christ by baptism into His death - a miracle event of salvation wherein we are crucified with Christ. The blood of Jesus and the regeneration of the Holy Spirit, “puts away the filth of the flesh” not baptism in water. However, Peter equates this anti-type of baptism to the inquiry of a good conscience towards God. In that water baptism is symbolic of resurrection as brought out by Paul in Romans 6:2-6, we are able to discern that Peter is bringing together several types. However, he is definitely denying remission of sins (filth of the flesh) by water baptism.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Friday, May 12, 2006
Fresh Bread - 5/12
Daily Bread
Ephesians 2:3 - “In this we also all conducted ourselves in the desire of our flesh, fulfilling the will of the flesh and of the imagination and were by nature children of wrath even as others.”
Flesh often is communicated in a positive sense as Jesus was manifested in the flesh and suffered for us in the flesh (John 1; 1 Peter 4:2). Flesh also describes the muscles of the body, meat used for sacrifice or food, human ability, and also the complete man (including the soul and spirit). However, in this case it is used in connection with the nature of sin and the spirit that works in the sons of disobedience. When flesh is used in contrast to the activity of the Holy Spirit it usually has a demonic connotation, such as in Romans 8:2-13 and 5:16-23. Now because of the grace of God that has brought salvation we are no longer in the flesh (Romans 8:9).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Ephesians 2:3 - “In this we also all conducted ourselves in the desire of our flesh, fulfilling the will of the flesh and of the imagination and were by nature children of wrath even as others.”
Flesh often is communicated in a positive sense as Jesus was manifested in the flesh and suffered for us in the flesh (John 1; 1 Peter 4:2). Flesh also describes the muscles of the body, meat used for sacrifice or food, human ability, and also the complete man (including the soul and spirit). However, in this case it is used in connection with the nature of sin and the spirit that works in the sons of disobedience. When flesh is used in contrast to the activity of the Holy Spirit it usually has a demonic connotation, such as in Romans 8:2-13 and 5:16-23. Now because of the grace of God that has brought salvation we are no longer in the flesh (Romans 8:9).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Fresh Bread - 5/11
Daily Bread
Romans 8:3 - “For the Law was powerless in that it was weak through the flesh. God sent His Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and concerning sin condemned sin in the flesh.”
Although the Word, Jesus Christ, became flesh He did not become sinful flesh (John 1:14; 1 Peter 2:22; 4:1-2). The flesh of Jesus Christ was absolutely sinless. He never one time sinned and thus condemned or pronounced sentence against sin being in the flesh. It is important to distinguish between the flesh of human ability and natural limitation and the flesh of sinful flesh. Sinful flesh refers to the depraved and wicked nature, a condition of man because of Adam’s sin (Romans 5:12-21). It is the same as the spirit of the world that works in the children of disobedience, which is also all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life (Ephesians 2:2; 1 John 2:). The sinful flesh is the Old Man, that was put to death by the death of Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 6:4-6). It is a realm belonging wholly to the god of this world, the prince and power of the air, the realm of the nature of wrath (Ephesians 2:3; Galatians 5:19). Sinful flesh is the state of mankind dominated by the sinful nature or fleshly lust and the works of the devil (1 Peter 2:11; 1 John 2:16; 3:8).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Romans 8:3 - “For the Law was powerless in that it was weak through the flesh. God sent His Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and concerning sin condemned sin in the flesh.”
Although the Word, Jesus Christ, became flesh He did not become sinful flesh (John 1:14; 1 Peter 2:22; 4:1-2). The flesh of Jesus Christ was absolutely sinless. He never one time sinned and thus condemned or pronounced sentence against sin being in the flesh. It is important to distinguish between the flesh of human ability and natural limitation and the flesh of sinful flesh. Sinful flesh refers to the depraved and wicked nature, a condition of man because of Adam’s sin (Romans 5:12-21). It is the same as the spirit of the world that works in the children of disobedience, which is also all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life (Ephesians 2:2; 1 John 2:). The sinful flesh is the Old Man, that was put to death by the death of Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 6:4-6). It is a realm belonging wholly to the god of this world, the prince and power of the air, the realm of the nature of wrath (Ephesians 2:3; Galatians 5:19). Sinful flesh is the state of mankind dominated by the sinful nature or fleshly lust and the works of the devil (1 Peter 2:11; 1 John 2:16; 3:8).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Daily Bread
1 John 5:14 - And this is the confidence that we have towards him that if we ask anything according to His will He hears us.
Jesus modeled a very simple method for receiving whatever we need from the Father, He simply said ask. There are two Greek words are used for ask in verses 14 through 16, ‘aitein’ and ‘erotan’. John does not use the more common word for prayer, ‘proseuchomai’ in any of his writings. John’s direction to us from the Holy Spirit is to simply ask the Father in faith in the name of Jesus, John 14:13, 26; 15:16; 16:23,26. There is really no difference in these two Greek words but one may make an argument that ‘aitein’ could be understood to mean, ‘ask for oneself’. However, both of these words are used in John 16:24 and 26 with no perceptible difference. It is God’s desire that we represent Him on the earth. Therefore, He has made it very easy for us to receive those things that we need in order to represent Him. Just come to the Father in the simple childlike faith that He has supplied and ask Him for whatever you have need of. For it is indeed His will to supply all of your needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
1 John 5:14 - And this is the confidence that we have towards him that if we ask anything according to His will He hears us.
Jesus modeled a very simple method for receiving whatever we need from the Father, He simply said ask. There are two Greek words are used for ask in verses 14 through 16, ‘aitein’ and ‘erotan’. John does not use the more common word for prayer, ‘proseuchomai’ in any of his writings. John’s direction to us from the Holy Spirit is to simply ask the Father in faith in the name of Jesus, John 14:13, 26; 15:16; 16:23,26. There is really no difference in these two Greek words but one may make an argument that ‘aitein’ could be understood to mean, ‘ask for oneself’. However, both of these words are used in John 16:24 and 26 with no perceptible difference. It is God’s desire that we represent Him on the earth. Therefore, He has made it very easy for us to receive those things that we need in order to represent Him. Just come to the Father in the simple childlike faith that He has supplied and ask Him for whatever you have need of. For it is indeed His will to supply all of your needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
Daily Bread
1 John 5:15 - And if we know that He hears us then if we ask we know that we possess whatever we requested when we asked it of Him.
John is speaking primarily about the relationship that he observed first hand between Jesus and the Father. When Jesus was about to raise Lazarus from the dead John reports that he lifted His eyes towards heaven and said, “I thank you Father that you have heard me. And I know that you always hear me” (John 11:41-42). This kind of confidence and faith is ours today if we are willing to enter into this kind of relationship. The joy and wonder of this kind of relationship with the Father will result in our receiving whatever we ask! We will not wonder if Father will answer rather we will know that we possess what we asked for. If your heart hungers for this kind of relationship with the Father then surely He will supply it.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
1 John 5:15 - And if we know that He hears us then if we ask we know that we possess whatever we requested when we asked it of Him.
John is speaking primarily about the relationship that he observed first hand between Jesus and the Father. When Jesus was about to raise Lazarus from the dead John reports that he lifted His eyes towards heaven and said, “I thank you Father that you have heard me. And I know that you always hear me” (John 11:41-42). This kind of confidence and faith is ours today if we are willing to enter into this kind of relationship. The joy and wonder of this kind of relationship with the Father will result in our receiving whatever we ask! We will not wonder if Father will answer rather we will know that we possess what we asked for. If your heart hungers for this kind of relationship with the Father then surely He will supply it.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Monday, May 08, 2006
Daily Bread
John 15:7 - If you dwell in me and my words dwell in you then you may ask what you desire and it shall be done for you.
Jesus reveals how easy it is to receive the answer to your request; He simply tells us to ask. Jesus tells us 7 times in John chapters 14 through 16 to ‘ask.’ The kind of prayer that we are to pray is an asking prayer; one that expects God to do the impossible. Elijah prayed asking God to stop the rain and it did not rain for 3.5 years; then when he asked God to cause it to rain it was so (James 5:17-18). James said, “you have not because you ask not.” Jesus said, “everyone who asks shall receive” and “all things whatsoever you ask in prayer believing you shall receive (Luke 11:9-10; Matthew 11:22). How simple can it be? Jesus reduces the impossible to nothing more than a basic request.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
John 15:7 - If you dwell in me and my words dwell in you then you may ask what you desire and it shall be done for you.
Jesus reveals how easy it is to receive the answer to your request; He simply tells us to ask. Jesus tells us 7 times in John chapters 14 through 16 to ‘ask.’ The kind of prayer that we are to pray is an asking prayer; one that expects God to do the impossible. Elijah prayed asking God to stop the rain and it did not rain for 3.5 years; then when he asked God to cause it to rain it was so (James 5:17-18). James said, “you have not because you ask not.” Jesus said, “everyone who asks shall receive” and “all things whatsoever you ask in prayer believing you shall receive (Luke 11:9-10; Matthew 11:22). How simple can it be? Jesus reduces the impossible to nothing more than a basic request.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Daily Bread
John 11:41-42 - Therefore, they took away the stone where the dead one was laid. And Jesus lifted His eyes upward and said, Father I thank you that you have heard me. And I know that you always hear me but for the sake of the multitude standing here I have said this so that they might believe that you have sent me.
The way Jesus prayed was much different than many of us pray today. When Jesus prayed, He raised His head towards heaven instead of bowing His head (Luke 28:13). Before He commanded the dead to live again He first talked to the Father. The first thing that Jesus did was to give thanks or bless the Father just as He did before the miracle of feeding the multitude (John 6:11). His prayer is one of absolute confidence that centers on the relationship that He had with His Father. He was certain that His Father heard His prayer which is one of the keys to prayer being answered as John brings to light later in his First Epistle, “And if we know that He hears us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of Him” (1 John 5:15).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
John 11:41-42 - Therefore, they took away the stone where the dead one was laid. And Jesus lifted His eyes upward and said, Father I thank you that you have heard me. And I know that you always hear me but for the sake of the multitude standing here I have said this so that they might believe that you have sent me.
The way Jesus prayed was much different than many of us pray today. When Jesus prayed, He raised His head towards heaven instead of bowing His head (Luke 28:13). Before He commanded the dead to live again He first talked to the Father. The first thing that Jesus did was to give thanks or bless the Father just as He did before the miracle of feeding the multitude (John 6:11). His prayer is one of absolute confidence that centers on the relationship that He had with His Father. He was certain that His Father heard His prayer which is one of the keys to prayer being answered as John brings to light later in his First Epistle, “And if we know that He hears us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of Him” (1 John 5:15).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Saturday, May 06, 2006
Fresh Bread 4/6 - Double Portion Day
Daily Bread
Romans 8:26 - And in like manner also the Spirit helps our frailty; for we do not know what we need to pray for but the Spirit intercedes with inexpressible groanings.
The intercession of the Spirit is described as inexpressible groanings. The expressions of the Spirit were first manifested in the Bible as prophecy, God speaking His word through man’s mouth under the inspiration of the Spirit. In the New Testament when the Holy Spirit came upon the believer other languages came forth as rivers of living water (Acts 2:3; John 7:38-39). The necessity of praying in the Spirit is repeated often throughout the New Testament. The Holy Spirit is the One who has come to lead us and guide us into all truth. He is the one who is making things known to us that Jesus was unable to communicate (John 16:12-15). His coming and subsequent intercession was the sound of other languages or the languages of men and angels (Acts 2:8-11; 1 Corinthians 14:1). The command to pray in the Spirit extends from 1 Corinthians to Jude 20. Although, praying in the Spirit may extend to speaking by the Spirit or prophesying it certainly excludes much of what Christians today would have us believe is prayer, which, in fact, is little more than their own minds expressing frustration, anxiety, and remorse. The prayer of the Spirit has a sound and an inspiration that is produced by the Holy Spirit Himself (Acts 2:4; 10:45-46; Acts 19:6; Romans 8:26; 1 Corinthians 14:1,14; Ephesians 5:18; 6:18).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Romans 8:26 - And in like manner also the Spirit helps our frailty; for we do not know what we need to pray for but the Spirit intercedes with inexpressible groanings.
The intercession of the Spirit is described as inexpressible groanings. The expressions of the Spirit were first manifested in the Bible as prophecy, God speaking His word through man’s mouth under the inspiration of the Spirit. In the New Testament when the Holy Spirit came upon the believer other languages came forth as rivers of living water (Acts 2:3; John 7:38-39). The necessity of praying in the Spirit is repeated often throughout the New Testament. The Holy Spirit is the One who has come to lead us and guide us into all truth. He is the one who is making things known to us that Jesus was unable to communicate (John 16:12-15). His coming and subsequent intercession was the sound of other languages or the languages of men and angels (Acts 2:8-11; 1 Corinthians 14:1). The command to pray in the Spirit extends from 1 Corinthians to Jude 20. Although, praying in the Spirit may extend to speaking by the Spirit or prophesying it certainly excludes much of what Christians today would have us believe is prayer, which, in fact, is little more than their own minds expressing frustration, anxiety, and remorse. The prayer of the Spirit has a sound and an inspiration that is produced by the Holy Spirit Himself (Acts 2:4; 10:45-46; Acts 19:6; Romans 8:26; 1 Corinthians 14:1,14; Ephesians 5:18; 6:18).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Friday, May 05, 2006
Daily Bread
John 6:11 - Jesus took the cakes and having given thanks He distributed them to the disciples and the disciples to those seated, also the fish in the same way, as much as they desired.
In both Koine and Classical Greek “eucharistein” has the same meaning “gave thanks.” The Greek word “eulogein” means to bless. However, there is an interchange in these two words in Mark 8:6-7. We may conclude that there was not much of a difference in their ancient meaning. In fact the Hebrew tradition had a common blessing for bread which is still practiced in the feast tradition today, “Blessed are you, O Lord, King of the universe, who brings forth bread from the earth.” The most important point that we should take note of is the importance of giving thanks and blessing the Lord when we pray. We can expect that the giving of thanks will result in the miracle that we need.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: revivalnews@abidingplace.org
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
John 6:11 - Jesus took the cakes and having given thanks He distributed them to the disciples and the disciples to those seated, also the fish in the same way, as much as they desired.
In both Koine and Classical Greek “eucharistein” has the same meaning “gave thanks.” The Greek word “eulogein” means to bless. However, there is an interchange in these two words in Mark 8:6-7. We may conclude that there was not much of a difference in their ancient meaning. In fact the Hebrew tradition had a common blessing for bread which is still practiced in the feast tradition today, “Blessed are you, O Lord, King of the universe, who brings forth bread from the earth.” The most important point that we should take note of is the importance of giving thanks and blessing the Lord when we pray. We can expect that the giving of thanks will result in the miracle that we need.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: revivalnews@abidingplace.org
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Fresh Bread 4/4
Daily Bread
Acts 4:31- And they having prayed the place was shaken in which they were assembled and they were all Holy Spirit filled and spoke the word of God with boldness.
Jesus told His disciples on the night before His death that “in that day you shall ask nothing of me” but that they would make their request to the Father in His name (John 16:23). This is an example of their obedience to the instructions of Jesus. When they were in need of divine assistance they prayed for power and divine, instead of just a specific need. The results of their prayers were that they were filled once again with the divine power to glorify the name of Jesus through signs and wonders. The immediate result that they experienced from the infilling of the Holy Spirit was the ability to speak the word with boldness. Paul asked the church to pray for him so that he too would speak the word with boldness (Ephesians 6:19-20).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: revivalnews@abidingplace.org
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Acts 4:31- And they having prayed the place was shaken in which they were assembled and they were all Holy Spirit filled and spoke the word of God with boldness.
Jesus told His disciples on the night before His death that “in that day you shall ask nothing of me” but that they would make their request to the Father in His name (John 16:23). This is an example of their obedience to the instructions of Jesus. When they were in need of divine assistance they prayed for power and divine, instead of just a specific need. The results of their prayers were that they were filled once again with the divine power to glorify the name of Jesus through signs and wonders. The immediate result that they experienced from the infilling of the Holy Spirit was the ability to speak the word with boldness. Paul asked the church to pray for him so that he too would speak the word with boldness (Ephesians 6:19-20).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
email: revivalnews@abidingplace.org
Abiding Place http://www.abidingplace.org
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Daily Bread
Ephesians 6:18-20 Through every prayer and plea, praying on every occasion in the Spirit also being on watch, totally alert. And on my behalf that a word may be given to me in the opening of my mouth by boldly making known the mystery of the gospel. On behalf of which I am an ambassador in bonds that in it I may speak boldly even as I ought to speak.
Paul’s instruction to the church at Ephesus was that they should pray on every occasion in the Spirit. They were to be totally alert as the army of God, and every need that presented itself was to be taken to God in prayer. Among those urgent needs was Paul’s own ministry of the word. He desired the church to pray for him that he would both be given the word and that he would speak the word of God with boldness. Unfortunately, if we are not careful we will pray after our own human concern and understanding and be completely ineffective. It is only the prayer of the Spirit that is the effectual and effective prayer. When we pray in the Spirit we will also receive the prayer of revelation or prophetic prayer that we can understand and receive instruction and edification by. Many times we also make the mistake of praying in the Spirit just short of the prayer that everyone can understand.
love ya
Mark
Ephesians 6:18-20 Through every prayer and plea, praying on every occasion in the Spirit also being on watch, totally alert. And on my behalf that a word may be given to me in the opening of my mouth by boldly making known the mystery of the gospel. On behalf of which I am an ambassador in bonds that in it I may speak boldly even as I ought to speak.
Paul’s instruction to the church at Ephesus was that they should pray on every occasion in the Spirit. They were to be totally alert as the army of God, and every need that presented itself was to be taken to God in prayer. Among those urgent needs was Paul’s own ministry of the word. He desired the church to pray for him that he would both be given the word and that he would speak the word of God with boldness. Unfortunately, if we are not careful we will pray after our own human concern and understanding and be completely ineffective. It is only the prayer of the Spirit that is the effectual and effective prayer. When we pray in the Spirit we will also receive the prayer of revelation or prophetic prayer that we can understand and receive instruction and edification by. Many times we also make the mistake of praying in the Spirit just short of the prayer that everyone can understand.
love ya
Mark
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Fresh Bread - 4/29 - Double Portion Day!
Daily Bread
Romans 8:1- There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit.
Romans chapter 7 outlined the condemnation that existed under the Law revealing a powerless and guilty condition against sin. The condemnation, or death sentence, came as a result of the disobedience and rebellion of Adam (Gen 2:17; 3:7, 24; Romans 5:12-21). This condemnation has come upon all mankind whether they are Jew or Gentile (John 3:18). The only possibility of being set free from the condemnation is to be made a new creation in Christ Jesus. The old man that possessed the death sentence and was subject to the rule of sin and death is destroyed, and the new creation is raised up in Christ Jesus so that we may walk in the nature and dominion of the Holy Spirit (Romans 6:4-6). Those who would desperately hang on to any dimension of the Law for justification were foolish because the Law was powerless to set anyone free from Adam's transgression and the rule of sin and death that passed to all mankind. In Christ Jesus we have so radically been changed and accepted in Christ Jesus that condemnation has no place for those who live the life of the Spirit.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Note: If you would like to start receiving these emails daily in your Inbox, go to http://www.abidingplace.org/. You can start receiving these daily morsels one of 2 ways: either click on "Email the Pastor" and send an email or simply provide your email address at the bottom of the home page in the box where it says, "Join Our Mailing List."
Romans 8:1- There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit.
Romans chapter 7 outlined the condemnation that existed under the Law revealing a powerless and guilty condition against sin. The condemnation, or death sentence, came as a result of the disobedience and rebellion of Adam (Gen 2:17; 3:7, 24; Romans 5:12-21). This condemnation has come upon all mankind whether they are Jew or Gentile (John 3:18). The only possibility of being set free from the condemnation is to be made a new creation in Christ Jesus. The old man that possessed the death sentence and was subject to the rule of sin and death is destroyed, and the new creation is raised up in Christ Jesus so that we may walk in the nature and dominion of the Holy Spirit (Romans 6:4-6). Those who would desperately hang on to any dimension of the Law for justification were foolish because the Law was powerless to set anyone free from Adam's transgression and the rule of sin and death that passed to all mankind. In Christ Jesus we have so radically been changed and accepted in Christ Jesus that condemnation has no place for those who live the life of the Spirit.
Blessings
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org
Note: If you would like to start receiving these emails daily in your Inbox, go to http://www.abidingplace.org/. You can start receiving these daily morsels one of 2 ways: either click on "Email the Pastor" and send an email or simply provide your email address at the bottom of the home page in the box where it says, "Join Our Mailing List."
Tuesday, August 02, 2005
Miracles, Signs, and Wonders
Around same the time that my spine - which was deformed due to a hip dislocation which occurred at birth - was miraculously healed, Pastor Mark was out of the country preaching the Gospel in Papua New Guinea, and God was stretching forth His hand performing mighty signs and wonders in the name of His holy child, Jesus. It was reported that around the same time I received a mighty miracle whereby God, by His mighty power, rearranged my mutilated and twisted up spine, God was also doing a unique thing in Papua New Guinea of miraculously healing backs.
Since Pastor Mark's return, we've seen film clips from the missions trip which included footage of an out-of-control demoniac child miraculously and gloriously set free from captivity, a young man born deaf hearing and speaking for the first time in his life, swelling in a gland from tuberculosis going down right before the eyes of all viewing. We saw people going out under the power of God as they were led into the waters of baptism right after giving their lives to Christ and coming up out of the water under the power of God as well. It was reported that many awakened and rose up speaking with the glorious language of heaven by the power of the Holy Ghost being uttered from their lips for the very first time.
When asked why the miracles are not happening in the United States like they are in other countries - especially those less developed - Pastor Mark replied, "They are! What are you doing?"
Perhaps the miracles are not happening on the same scale as in other countries where people aren't predesposed by doctrines of man and of devils to resisting the Holy Ghost, but they are happening nonetheless. It is suggested that if more people were believing the Gospel and being doers of the Word of God and not merely hearers only, the miracles would be happening on the same scale - if not on a larger scale.
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