Daily Bread - MAR/27/07
Ephesians 3:7 - Of which I have become a minister 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, divine activity) 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. This is not some esoteric activity of God that takes place absent of our will and consciousness. This is an activity of the Holy Spirit in our life not unlike any other relationship. We must recognize His presence and both obey and yield to His direction. 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 given the ability to live the life of Christ Jesus.
There is nothing that man can do for God in his own human ability and strength that will really accomplish anything from an eternal perspective. We must learn to depend upon the ability which God supplies to us through His active power (energia) that is at work in the life of every saint. Through interacting with the Holy Spirit in praise and worship, reading of the Word of God, and giving ourselves to prayer He trains us to yield to Him. The first time that you yielded to the Holy Spirit was when you responded to the call of salvation and allowed Him to transform you and make you into a new creation. As we learn to walk in the love, joy, and peace of the Holy Spirit we will find ourselves continually overwhelmed with His direction and ability. Jesus did nothing of Himself and it is certain that we can do nothing of ourselves. If we will simply take hold of the reality that without Jesus we can do nothing then we will begin to put our faith in the activity of God working through us. 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.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Monday, March 26, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/26/07
Ephesians 1:19 - "...and what is the exceeding greatness of His power to us who believe, according to the working power of His mighty power."
Our wonderful Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has really loaded us up with all of the divine power and ability that we will ever need for anything that we will ever face. The biggest challenge is on our part to believe Him and look to Him for help in time of need. If we are willing to look to Him for help then He will supply all of our needs according to His riches in glory. There are four "power" words in this one verse of scripture: 1- dunamis; 2- energia; 3- kratos; 4- ischus.
The Greek word "dunamis" is defined by the virtue that went out of Jesus to heal the woman with the issue of blood and the power that the church would receive once the Holy Spirit came upon them. It has been said that dunamis is the ability to accomplish the promise; energeia is brute or muscular power or working efficiency: by application "supernatural strength" (Philippians 3:21, Colossians 1:29); kratos is the power to overcome obstacles: have dominion or controlling power; and ischus is the potential power the power that will come to bear when needed (1 Peter 4:11). The word "ischus" is first used in Genesis 4:12: "When you till the ground it will not yield her strength to you."
This use of four synonyms for power in one verse is similar to Ephesians 6:10 which commands the saints to be endunamoo (strong) in the Lord and in the kratos (power) of His ischus (might). The Almighty wants us to have a strong assurance of faith to know for certain that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13). Father so wanted Abraham to be certain of the promise that He swore an oath to him. Yet now God has done something even greater for us; He sealed us and endued us with His Spirit (Luke 24:49; Hebrews 6:13-19; Hebrews 10:22-23).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
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: 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 (strong) in the Lord and in the kratos (power) of His ischus (might). The Almighty wants us to have a strong assurance of faith to know for certain that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13). Father so wanted Abraham to be certain of the promise that He swore an oath to him. Yet now God has done something even greater for us; He sealed us and endued us with His Spirit (Luke 24:49; Hebrews 6:13-19; Hebrews 10:22-23).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/24/07
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 Spirit'. Being 'in the Spirit' begins in our life when we are born of the Spirit (John 3:6; Romans 8:9).
However, it is an ongoing act of our will to submit to the inspiration and leading of the Holy Spirit that is prompted by the Word of God. As we ask the Holy Spirit to love through us in the face of hate and rejection, refusing the human inspiration of self-defense, we find ourselves overwhelmed with the inspiration of divine love pouring out like a river.
The Greek phrase that is used here 'en pneumati', literally means 'in Spirit' and is found 36 times in the New Testament. The many context in which it is used helps to underscore the dependency that we must have on the Holy Spirit, if His fruits or characteristics are going to be revealed in our lives. Jesus said, "If I cast out devils 'en pneumati' then the kingdom of God is come" (Matthew 12:28). When David prophesied and foretold of the coming Messiah he did so 'in Spirit' - "how then did David 'en pneumati' call him Lord?" (Matthew 22:43). These are two scriptures out of many examples, which should serve to underscore that 'in pneumati' refers to something that is produced by the Spirit of God and not by any quality or attribute of an individual. Whether it is love, peace, joy, faith, power to cast out devils, miracles, healings or prophecy it only can function in our life as we give ourselves over to the working of the Holy Spirit in us and through us.
Walk in love,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
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 Spirit'. Being 'in the Spirit' begins in our life when we are born of the Spirit (John 3:6; Romans 8:9).
However, it is an ongoing act of our will to submit to the inspiration and leading of the Holy Spirit that is prompted by the Word of God. As we ask the Holy Spirit to love through us in the face of hate and rejection, refusing the human inspiration of self-defense, we find ourselves overwhelmed with the inspiration of divine love pouring out like a river.
The Greek phrase that is used here 'en pneumati', literally means 'in Spirit' and is found 36 times in the New Testament. The many context in which it is used helps to underscore the dependency that we must have on the Holy Spirit, if His fruits or characteristics are going to be revealed in our lives. Jesus said, "If I cast out devils 'en pneumati' then the kingdom of God is come" (Matthew 12:28). When David prophesied and foretold of the coming Messiah he did so 'in Spirit' - "how then did David 'en pneumati' call him Lord?" (Matthew 22:43). These are two scriptures out of many examples, which should serve to underscore that 'in pneumati' refers to something that is produced by the Spirit of God and not by any quality or attribute of an individual. Whether it is love, peace, joy, faith, power to cast out devils, miracles, healings or prophecy it only can function in our life as we give ourselves over to the working of the Holy Spirit in us and through us.
Walk in love,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Friday, March 23, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/23/07
Colossians 1:11 - In all power strengthened according to his glorious might unto all enduring patience and forbearance with joy.
There are three attitudes that are named in this verse of scripture: patience, forbearance, and joy. These three attitudes are obviously very important to God and to our spiritual success. Therefore, God has given us His power so that we may be strengthened with His glorious might in order to maintain this disposition. The importance of these characteristics demands a closer look at the actual and practical meaning of these words.
The Greek word that is used for patience (hupomone) means patience, endurance, fortitude, steadfastness, perseverance, and expectation (BDAG). One of many things that are being described is a relentless commitment to a course of action no matter what difficulties are presented. When we know that God has already planned our success and that the test is essential to being trained to handle that success then we can look up and see beyond the difficulties that we encounter. God is so devoted to us that He provides us with His own supernatural strength to bear up under these pressures. We are talking about something on the level of a defiant perseverance that holds up under every sort of delayed results of aggressive misfortune. This same word is used in the Septuagint about 25 times to which Psalms 62:5 captures the true essence of this word. The Psalmist commands his soul as to how it will behave: "My soul, you wait upon God; for my expectation (hupomone) is from Him".
The characteristic that is expressed in the next Greek word which we usually translate longsuffering (makrothumia) is somewhat similar. This Greek word is considered a synonym to the Greek word for patience. However, there are some unique qualities to this word that demands our attention. This word not only includes patience, steadfastness, endurance but also forbearance and tolerance or self-control in the face of provocation (BDAG). Forbearance is the ability to maintain an emotional quietness in the face of opposing circumstances. Many times it is because of our outburst of self-defense and emotional hurt that we create problems for ourselves and the ones that we love. Our Heavenly Father has modeled forbearance for us in the way that He deals with the wickedness of man in the face of His unfailing love. God does not pour out His just wrath upon the transgressors but instead forgives and saves. In Isaiah 57:15 this Greek word is used in such a way as to help us understand both the nature of forbearance and what God will do for those who walk in it "For this is what the High and the Lofty One says that inhabits eternity whose name is Holy, I dwell in the high and holy place with him also of a contrite and humble spirit to revive the spirit of the humble (makrothumia) and to revive the heart of the contrite ones."
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Colossians 1:11 - In all power strengthened according to his glorious might unto all enduring patience and forbearance with joy.
There are three attitudes that are named in this verse of scripture: patience, forbearance, and joy. These three attitudes are obviously very important to God and to our spiritual success. Therefore, God has given us His power so that we may be strengthened with His glorious might in order to maintain this disposition. The importance of these characteristics demands a closer look at the actual and practical meaning of these words.
The Greek word that is used for patience (hupomone) means patience, endurance, fortitude, steadfastness, perseverance, and expectation (BDAG). One of many things that are being described is a relentless commitment to a course of action no matter what difficulties are presented. When we know that God has already planned our success and that the test is essential to being trained to handle that success then we can look up and see beyond the difficulties that we encounter. God is so devoted to us that He provides us with His own supernatural strength to bear up under these pressures. We are talking about something on the level of a defiant perseverance that holds up under every sort of delayed results of aggressive misfortune. This same word is used in the Septuagint about 25 times to which Psalms 62:5 captures the true essence of this word. The Psalmist commands his soul as to how it will behave: "My soul, you wait upon God; for my expectation (hupomone) is from Him".
The characteristic that is expressed in the next Greek word which we usually translate longsuffering (makrothumia) is somewhat similar. This Greek word is considered a synonym to the Greek word for patience. However, there are some unique qualities to this word that demands our attention. This word not only includes patience, steadfastness, endurance but also forbearance and tolerance or self-control in the face of provocation (BDAG). Forbearance is the ability to maintain an emotional quietness in the face of opposing circumstances. Many times it is because of our outburst of self-defense and emotional hurt that we create problems for ourselves and the ones that we love. Our Heavenly Father has modeled forbearance for us in the way that He deals with the wickedness of man in the face of His unfailing love. God does not pour out His just wrath upon the transgressors but instead forgives and saves. In Isaiah 57:15 this Greek word is used in such a way as to help us understand both the nature of forbearance and what God will do for those who walk in it "For this is what the High and the Lofty One says that inhabits eternity whose name is Holy, I dwell in the high and holy place with him also of a contrite and humble spirit to revive the spirit of the humble (makrothumia) and to revive the heart of the contrite ones."
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/22/07
John 14:27 - "I leave you Peace. My Peace I give to you. I give it to you not as the world gives it to you. Do not let your heart be troubled and do not be afraid."
It is an awesome thought to realize that the Prince of Peace has given us His Peace (Isaiah 9:6). This is a Peace that passes all understanding that commands every fear and worry to be silenced and every storm to be stilled (Philippians 4:7; Matthew 8:26; Luke 8:24). The Peace of God gives us the confidence and assurance that it is impossible for us to fail (Isaiah 30:15; 33:6; Jeremiah 29:11; Philippians 4:19; John 14:13-14). Peace is something that only comes from God, and through Christ Jesus we have received it without measure (Job 25:2; Romans 1:7; 15:13; 1 Corinthians 1:3; 2 Corinthians 1:2; Galatians 1:3; Ephesians 1:2; Philippians 1:2; Colossians 1:2; 1 Thessalonians 1:1; 2 Thessalonians 1:2; 1 Timothy 1:2; 2 Timothy 1:2; Titus 1:4; Philemon 1:3; 2 John 1:3; Acts 10:36).
One of the chief descriptions of God in the New Testament is that He is a God of Peace (Philippians 4:9; Romans 15:33; 16:20; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; Hebrews 13:20). The Kingdom of God of which we are a part is a Kingdom of Peace (Isaiah 9:7; Romans 14:17). The good news of the New Testament that we preach is a gospel of Peace (Isaiah 52:7; Nahum 1:15; Romans 10:15). Power has been given to us in the name of Jesus is to proclaim Peace to every situation of life and to every person we encounter who are near to God and also to those who are far away from Him (Isaiah 57:19; Ephesians 2:17; Luke 10:5-6; Matthew 10:13).
We are to live under the rule of Peace and to be dominated by its effects so that it rules our hearts and minds thus governing every thought (Philippians 4:7; Colossians 3:15; 2 Thessalonians 3:16). God has given us His Peace so that we can be empowered against all fear that would attempt to overwhelm our hearts. If we are going to walk with God in the realm of faith, then we must not allow our hearts to be troubled neither be afraid. It is this glorious Peace that is the witness that we are submitted to the realm of the Kingdom of God and under the rule of the Holy Spirit and government of Jesus (Galatians 5:23; Romans 14:17; 8:16; 2 Corinthians 1:22).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 14:27 - "I leave you Peace. My Peace I give to you. I give it to you not as the world gives it to you. Do not let your heart be troubled and do not be afraid."
It is an awesome thought to realize that the Prince of Peace has given us His Peace (Isaiah 9:6). This is a Peace that passes all understanding that commands every fear and worry to be silenced and every storm to be stilled (Philippians 4:7; Matthew 8:26; Luke 8:24). The Peace of God gives us the confidence and assurance that it is impossible for us to fail (Isaiah 30:15; 33:6; Jeremiah 29:11; Philippians 4:19; John 14:13-14). Peace is something that only comes from God, and through Christ Jesus we have received it without measure (Job 25:2; Romans 1:7; 15:13; 1 Corinthians 1:3; 2 Corinthians 1:2; Galatians 1:3; Ephesians 1:2; Philippians 1:2; Colossians 1:2; 1 Thessalonians 1:1; 2 Thessalonians 1:2; 1 Timothy 1:2; 2 Timothy 1:2; Titus 1:4; Philemon 1:3; 2 John 1:3; Acts 10:36).
One of the chief descriptions of God in the New Testament is that He is a God of Peace (Philippians 4:9; Romans 15:33; 16:20; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; Hebrews 13:20). The Kingdom of God of which we are a part is a Kingdom of Peace (Isaiah 9:7; Romans 14:17). The good news of the New Testament that we preach is a gospel of Peace (Isaiah 52:7; Nahum 1:15; Romans 10:15). Power has been given to us in the name of Jesus is to proclaim Peace to every situation of life and to every person we encounter who are near to God and also to those who are far away from Him (Isaiah 57:19; Ephesians 2:17; Luke 10:5-6; Matthew 10:13).
We are to live under the rule of Peace and to be dominated by its effects so that it rules our hearts and minds thus governing every thought (Philippians 4:7; Colossians 3:15; 2 Thessalonians 3:16). God has given us His Peace so that we can be empowered against all fear that would attempt to overwhelm our hearts. If we are going to walk with God in the realm of faith, then we must not allow our hearts to be troubled neither be afraid. It is this glorious Peace that is the witness that we are submitted to the realm of the Kingdom of God and under the rule of the Holy Spirit and government of Jesus (Galatians 5:23; Romans 14:17; 8:16; 2 Corinthians 1:22).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/21/07
John 14:27 - I leave you Peace. My Peace I give to you. I give it to you not as the world gives it to you. Do not let your heart be troubled and do not be afraid.
We have been given the Peace of God by the Lord Jesus Christ so that we can live our lives safe and secure in Him (Romans 10:15; 8:6; 15:13; John 16:33; Ephesians 2:17; Luke 1:79; Malachi 2:6). The relationship that He has provided for us should leave us worry-free. Just knowing that we do not have to really have faith for the difficult situations that we find ourselves in, we need only have faith in Him and He will do whatever we ask (John 14:11-14). He will take care of us and provide for us according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19; 2 Corinthians 9:8-11; Mathew 7:11; Luke 11:13). His love and care for us is so great that He laid His own life down so that we might live.
If God loved us so much before we had any kind of relationship with Him, how much more will that love and care be expressed toward us now that we know Him and serve Him (Romans 5:10; 8:32; Luke 12:32)? The love that God has for us should give us boldness and confidence no matter what situation we find ourselves in (1 John 4:17; Ephesians 3:12). In fact, keeping ourselves in this love is key to the miracle of God's provision for every one of our needs (1 John 4:16-17; Galatians 5:6; Jude 1:20-21; Joshua 1:6-8). Doubt and unbelief work in the realm of fear and self reliance (1 John 4:18; Luke 8:50; 12:32). The enemy of our soul constantly attacks and slanders God's character and commitment to us. Yet we are able to find our repose in the Peace that has been given to us by Christ Jesus so that we may boldly say, "if God be for us who can be against us" (Romans 8:31; 1 John 4:4).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 14:27 - I leave you Peace. My Peace I give to you. I give it to you not as the world gives it to you. Do not let your heart be troubled and do not be afraid.
We have been given the Peace of God by the Lord Jesus Christ so that we can live our lives safe and secure in Him (Romans 10:15; 8:6; 15:13; John 16:33; Ephesians 2:17; Luke 1:79; Malachi 2:6). The relationship that He has provided for us should leave us worry-free. Just knowing that we do not have to really have faith for the difficult situations that we find ourselves in, we need only have faith in Him and He will do whatever we ask (John 14:11-14). He will take care of us and provide for us according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19; 2 Corinthians 9:8-11; Mathew 7:11; Luke 11:13). His love and care for us is so great that He laid His own life down so that we might live.
If God loved us so much before we had any kind of relationship with Him, how much more will that love and care be expressed toward us now that we know Him and serve Him (Romans 5:10; 8:32; Luke 12:32)? The love that God has for us should give us boldness and confidence no matter what situation we find ourselves in (1 John 4:17; Ephesians 3:12). In fact, keeping ourselves in this love is key to the miracle of God's provision for every one of our needs (1 John 4:16-17; Galatians 5:6; Jude 1:20-21; Joshua 1:6-8). Doubt and unbelief work in the realm of fear and self reliance (1 John 4:18; Luke 8:50; 12:32). The enemy of our soul constantly attacks and slanders God's character and commitment to us. Yet we are able to find our repose in the Peace that has been given to us by Christ Jesus so that we may boldly say, "if God be for us who can be against us" (Romans 8:31; 1 John 4:4).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/20/07
Acts 22:6 - And while I was on my journey and coming near to Damascus about noon suddenly a bright light shown about me from heaven.
The word "hikanos" is found 41 times in the New Testament. This adjective is used more by Luke than anyone else occurring 10 times in Luke and 19 times in Acts. It usually refers to a sufficient quantity whose magnitude would be defined by what is being contrasted; for example sufficient light to be seen at noon. It is translated in various ways in the Septuagint but one of the more notable words that it often translates is "Shaddai" which as a name of God refers to the all sufficient one or the "Almighty", El Shaddai (Ruth 1:20, 21).
Keeping this in mind Paul's special usage in 2 Corinthians sheds more light on the idea of being sufficient, "our sufficiency (hikanoi) is from God, who has made us sufficient (hikanotes) ministers of the new covenant" (2 Corinthians 3:5-6). Knowing that our ministry is of God and that it is to be a supernatural activity of the Holy Spirit working through us the word sufficient cannot be mistaken for just satisfactory.
For our ministry to be sufficient to God then it must be at the magnitude that He has desired it to be. Thus by His grace He has supplied us with His power so that we may function in a realm superior to human ability (Romans 15:19,29; 1 Corinthians 2:4; Matthew 10:20; Philippians 2:13; Colossians 1:29; Luke 9:1; 10:1,9; Mark 16:17; Acts 1:8; 4:33). If our ministry depends on our own human effort then it is not sufficient (2Corinthins 4:7; 1 Corinthians 15:10; Ephesians 3:7; Romans 8:2-9). When we consider that the event of this passage took place at noon when the sun was the brightest then we understand that a sufficient amount of light would need to be very bright, which leads us to the most appropriate translation of "hikanos" in this verse, 'bright'. This translation is further justified by the wording of Acts 26:13 where the Greek word "lamprotes" (brightness) is used to describe this same event.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Acts 22:6 - And while I was on my journey and coming near to Damascus about noon suddenly a bright light shown about me from heaven.
The word "hikanos" is found 41 times in the New Testament. This adjective is used more by Luke than anyone else occurring 10 times in Luke and 19 times in Acts. It usually refers to a sufficient quantity whose magnitude would be defined by what is being contrasted; for example sufficient light to be seen at noon. It is translated in various ways in the Septuagint but one of the more notable words that it often translates is "Shaddai" which as a name of God refers to the all sufficient one or the "Almighty", El Shaddai (Ruth 1:20, 21).
Keeping this in mind Paul's special usage in 2 Corinthians sheds more light on the idea of being sufficient, "our sufficiency (hikanoi) is from God, who has made us sufficient (hikanotes) ministers of the new covenant" (2 Corinthians 3:5-6). Knowing that our ministry is of God and that it is to be a supernatural activity of the Holy Spirit working through us the word sufficient cannot be mistaken for just satisfactory.
For our ministry to be sufficient to God then it must be at the magnitude that He has desired it to be. Thus by His grace He has supplied us with His power so that we may function in a realm superior to human ability (Romans 15:19,29; 1 Corinthians 2:4; Matthew 10:20; Philippians 2:13; Colossians 1:29; Luke 9:1; 10:1,9; Mark 16:17; Acts 1:8; 4:33). If our ministry depends on our own human effort then it is not sufficient (2Corinthins 4:7; 1 Corinthians 15:10; Ephesians 3:7; Romans 8:2-9). When we consider that the event of this passage took place at noon when the sun was the brightest then we understand that a sufficient amount of light would need to be very bright, which leads us to the most appropriate translation of "hikanos" in this verse, 'bright'. This translation is further justified by the wording of Acts 26:13 where the Greek word "lamprotes" (brightness) is used to describe this same event.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Monday, March 19, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/19/07
Acts 2:24 - Whom God raised up loosing the pains of death because it was not possible for its power to hold Him.
The power of death that seized Adam was not powerful enough to hold Jesus. In fact, through His death He abolished death (2 Timothy 1:10). As the power of death entered into the world by Adam even so by Jesus Christ came the resurrection from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:21; http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%2015:21;&version=9;). Jesus, through His death, stripped principalities and powers and proved their defeat (Colossians 2:15). He effectively destroyed the devil by destroying his reign of death and his power to dominate man with sin and death (Hebrews 2:14; Romans 5:14; 8:2).
The final outcome of the resurrection is that Jesus - the son of David and the Son of God who is the Alpha and Omega and forever the Eternal King - possesses the keys of hell and death (Revelation 1:18). Everyone who will have faith in His name He gives resurrection life and power to (Romans 6:5; 1 Corinthians 15:21). The power that is in the resurrection of Jesus is power over eternal death (Revelation 20:6).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Acts 2:24 - Whom God raised up loosing the pains of death because it was not possible for its power to hold Him.
The power of death that seized Adam was not powerful enough to hold Jesus. In fact, through His death He abolished death (2 Timothy 1:10). As the power of death entered into the world by Adam even so by Jesus Christ came the resurrection from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:21; http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%2015:21;&version=9;). Jesus, through His death, stripped principalities and powers and proved their defeat (Colossians 2:15). He effectively destroyed the devil by destroying his reign of death and his power to dominate man with sin and death (Hebrews 2:14; Romans 5:14; 8:2).
The final outcome of the resurrection is that Jesus - the son of David and the Son of God who is the Alpha and Omega and forever the Eternal King - possesses the keys of hell and death (Revelation 1:18). Everyone who will have faith in His name He gives resurrection life and power to (Romans 6:5; 1 Corinthians 15:21). The power that is in the resurrection of Jesus is power over eternal death (Revelation 20:6).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/17/07
Acts 15:11 - For we believe that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ in the same manner also.
The first definition of "saved" sited in Merriam- Webster's Collegiate Dictionary (Eleventh Edition) is, "delivered from sin." Peter reveals that there is no difference between Jew and Gentile and that if anyone is going to be saved it will be by the same Jesus through the same faith. The Jews who had depended upon the Law for salvation were faced with the crisis of an instantaneous righteousness through the miracle of salvation instead of a righteous status maintained by strict observance of the Law. The transition that they were engaged in was that there was now no more need for the Law and that the Gentiles were being granted equal position with them in God.
The salvation that is in Christ Jesus is so radically different from the Law because the dominance of sin is removed. And even more the redeemed are given a new spirit so that their spirit can be unity to the Holy Spirit to both choose and do that which pleases God (1 Corinthians 6:17; John 3:6; John 14:20; 17:21-23). The revelation of the purity and righteousness that comes by the miracle of faith was also expressed by Paul when he declared that everyone who believes in Jesus Christ "are shown to be righteous" which is something that the Law of Moses was powerless to do (Acts 13:38-39; Galatians 3:21). The Law of Moses was weak in that it depended upon the ability of man who themselves were governed by a disobedient nature and dominated by sin (Romans 8:3; 7:5, 15; Galatians 3:21; Hebrews 7:9). However, through the salvation that is in Christ Jesus everyone who believes has the righteousness of the Law fulfilled in them because they walk in the Spirit (Romans 8:4; 2 Coriinthians 5:17; 1 Peter 2:24).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Acts 15:11 - For we believe that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ in the same manner also.
The first definition of "saved" sited in Merriam- Webster's Collegiate Dictionary (Eleventh Edition) is, "delivered from sin." Peter reveals that there is no difference between Jew and Gentile and that if anyone is going to be saved it will be by the same Jesus through the same faith. The Jews who had depended upon the Law for salvation were faced with the crisis of an instantaneous righteousness through the miracle of salvation instead of a righteous status maintained by strict observance of the Law. The transition that they were engaged in was that there was now no more need for the Law and that the Gentiles were being granted equal position with them in God.
The salvation that is in Christ Jesus is so radically different from the Law because the dominance of sin is removed. And even more the redeemed are given a new spirit so that their spirit can be unity to the Holy Spirit to both choose and do that which pleases God (1 Corinthians 6:17; John 3:6; John 14:20; 17:21-23). The revelation of the purity and righteousness that comes by the miracle of faith was also expressed by Paul when he declared that everyone who believes in Jesus Christ "are shown to be righteous" which is something that the Law of Moses was powerless to do (Acts 13:38-39; Galatians 3:21). The Law of Moses was weak in that it depended upon the ability of man who themselves were governed by a disobedient nature and dominated by sin (Romans 8:3; 7:5, 15; Galatians 3:21; Hebrews 7:9). However, through the salvation that is in Christ Jesus everyone who believes has the righteousness of the Law fulfilled in them because they walk in the Spirit (Romans 8:4; 2 Coriinthians 5:17; 1 Peter 2:24).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Friday, March 16, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/16/07
John 4:10 - Jesus replied and said to her, If you knew about the gift of God and who it is that is saying to you, Give me a drink, you would have asked him and he would give you living water.
The gift of God is the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38; 8:20; 10:45; 11:17; Hebrews 6:4). The gift of the Holy Spirit was given to us so that we could receive the transformation of nature and be made a new creation (John 3:5-6, 8; Titus 3:5; 1 John 3:24; John 1:13; Romans 8:9). The gift of the Holy Spirit was given so that we could be empowered with divine power (Luke 24:49; Acts 2:8). The gift of God is a treasure on the inside of us that produces the excellence of God's power (2 Corinthians 4:7).
The gift is a wellspring producing spirit and truth, a river producing all that was seen on the day of Pentecost and more. It is the Paraklete (Holy Spirit) who abides with us forever, Christ in us the hope of glory, our seal of redemption, the teacher who leads and guides us into all truth, God's power on the inside of us producing all His fruits and testifying of all His glory (John 4:10; 7:38-39; John 14:16; Colossians 1:27; John 4:24; Ephesians 1:13; 2 Corinthians 1:22). The gift of God brought forth the Spirit of the Son, the divine nature, the new man and the new creation (Galatians 4:6; 2 Peter 1:4; Ephesians 4:24; 2 Corinthians 5:17). The gift of the Holy Spirit is received by asking the Father who has made it known that it is His good pleasure to give us the Holy Spirit (Luke 11:13; Acts 2:38; Ephesians 1:5; Philippians 2:13; 2 Thessalonians 1:11).
The phrase "thn dorea tou Theo" (the gift of God) is found 2 times in the New Testatement and is inseparably linked to the gift of the Holy Spirit (John 4:10; Acts 8:20). The context in Acts 10:45 which uses this related phrase "h dorea tou hagiou pneumatos" (the gift of the Holy Spirit) further witnesses to this fact. Peter recounting this event to the council in Jerusalem says that God gave them the same gift as they had received on the day of Pentecost (Acts 11:17). Today, the same message is being spoken by the Holy Spirit who along with all who have ever drunk of this water calls out to anyone who is thirsty (Revelation 22:17).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 4:10 - Jesus replied and said to her, If you knew about the gift of God and who it is that is saying to you, Give me a drink, you would have asked him and he would give you living water.
The gift of God is the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38; 8:20; 10:45; 11:17; Hebrews 6:4). The gift of the Holy Spirit was given to us so that we could receive the transformation of nature and be made a new creation (John 3:5-6, 8; Titus 3:5; 1 John 3:24; John 1:13; Romans 8:9). The gift of the Holy Spirit was given so that we could be empowered with divine power (Luke 24:49; Acts 2:8). The gift of God is a treasure on the inside of us that produces the excellence of God's power (2 Corinthians 4:7).
The gift is a wellspring producing spirit and truth, a river producing all that was seen on the day of Pentecost and more. It is the Paraklete (Holy Spirit) who abides with us forever, Christ in us the hope of glory, our seal of redemption, the teacher who leads and guides us into all truth, God's power on the inside of us producing all His fruits and testifying of all His glory (John 4:10; 7:38-39; John 14:16; Colossians 1:27; John 4:24; Ephesians 1:13; 2 Corinthians 1:22). The gift of God brought forth the Spirit of the Son, the divine nature, the new man and the new creation (Galatians 4:6; 2 Peter 1:4; Ephesians 4:24; 2 Corinthians 5:17). The gift of the Holy Spirit is received by asking the Father who has made it known that it is His good pleasure to give us the Holy Spirit (Luke 11:13; Acts 2:38; Ephesians 1:5; Philippians 2:13; 2 Thessalonians 1:11).
The phrase "thn dorea tou Theo" (the gift of God) is found 2 times in the New Testatement and is inseparably linked to the gift of the Holy Spirit (John 4:10; Acts 8:20). The context in Acts 10:45 which uses this related phrase "h dorea tou hagiou pneumatos" (the gift of the Holy Spirit) further witnesses to this fact. Peter recounting this event to the council in Jerusalem says that God gave them the same gift as they had received on the day of Pentecost (Acts 11:17). Today, the same message is being spoken by the Holy Spirit who along with all who have ever drunk of this water calls out to anyone who is thirsty (Revelation 22:17).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/15/07
1 Peter 2:23 - Who being insulted did not insult in return, suffering did not threaten but handed it over to righteous judgment.
One of the easiest pitfalls to stumble into is self-defense. We all want people to like us, and when that is undermined by false accusations then we simply find it nearly impossible to entrust the accusation and ourselves to the Lord. Instead, we move in self-defense - which usually results in speaking some evil thing against the person who spoke against us. However, this is not pleasing to the Father and it is behavior that will not be rewarded by Him.
We can choose to fight our own battles and live with whatever gains we acquire through such means or follow the example of the Lord Jesus and let God both fight our battles and uphold us in all of His blessings that He has blessed us with. The Greek word that is used here is "loidoreo" which may be translated "revile, abuse, insult, slander, reproach." There is nothing that can mess up your day like someone reviling, abusing, insulting, slandering, or reproaching you, but Father is asking us to follow the example of His Son Jesus and hand it all over to Him.
We are called to bless when we are insulted and as a result we will inherit a blessing even out of the midst of abuse (1 Peter 3:9; 1 Corinthians 4:12). But how is it possible to do that? First of all we must be willing to keep ourselves in the love of God (Jude 1:20-21). Beyond that, we have to step back and allow God to give us a burden for the souls of those who have been ensnared by such wickedness.
God will give us wisdom and insight into the hurts and insecurity that caused someone to do such a thing. Then we will find ourselves moved with compassion and can begin to pray for them that their lives would be changed by the mercies of Christ Jesus and the power of God. The most important thing is to not retaliate but to make sure that as God's people we have the correct response. As Peter has already said previously in this chapter, "if we do well and suffer reproach for it then this is acceptable to God" (1 Peter 2:19-20).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 Peter 2:23 - Who being insulted did not insult in return, suffering did not threaten but handed it over to righteous judgment.
One of the easiest pitfalls to stumble into is self-defense. We all want people to like us, and when that is undermined by false accusations then we simply find it nearly impossible to entrust the accusation and ourselves to the Lord. Instead, we move in self-defense - which usually results in speaking some evil thing against the person who spoke against us. However, this is not pleasing to the Father and it is behavior that will not be rewarded by Him.
We can choose to fight our own battles and live with whatever gains we acquire through such means or follow the example of the Lord Jesus and let God both fight our battles and uphold us in all of His blessings that He has blessed us with. The Greek word that is used here is "loidoreo" which may be translated "revile, abuse, insult, slander, reproach." There is nothing that can mess up your day like someone reviling, abusing, insulting, slandering, or reproaching you, but Father is asking us to follow the example of His Son Jesus and hand it all over to Him.
We are called to bless when we are insulted and as a result we will inherit a blessing even out of the midst of abuse (1 Peter 3:9; 1 Corinthians 4:12). But how is it possible to do that? First of all we must be willing to keep ourselves in the love of God (Jude 1:20-21). Beyond that, we have to step back and allow God to give us a burden for the souls of those who have been ensnared by such wickedness.
God will give us wisdom and insight into the hurts and insecurity that caused someone to do such a thing. Then we will find ourselves moved with compassion and can begin to pray for them that their lives would be changed by the mercies of Christ Jesus and the power of God. The most important thing is to not retaliate but to make sure that as God's people we have the correct response. As Peter has already said previously in this chapter, "if we do well and suffer reproach for it then this is acceptable to God" (1 Peter 2:19-20).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/14/07
1 Peter 2:21 - For you are called to this because also Christ suffered on your behalf leaving you an example that you should follow after His footsteps.
Jesus said that those who would be His disciples were called do what He did. If they were going to follow Him then they would have to take up their cross and deny themselves even as He did (Matthew 10:38; 16:24; Mark 8:34, 35; Luke 9:23-25). Although there is no need for us to actually go to a cross and die for the world, there is a need for us to deny our own self-will and live to do the will of the Father. The cross is the ultimate example of not living for oneself.
We were born of God to no longer live according to the will of man but to live according to God's will (1 Peter 4:2; Matthew 7:21; 12:50; John 5:30). We could equally say that we have no right to make our own choices but rather choose what God has chosen for us to do in any given situation. We are to overcome just as Jesus overcame and live in this present world just as He lives today (Revelation 3:21; John 4:17).
Jesus became our example and modeled what a son of God was supposed to be like and God has predetermined that we should be conformed to His image (Romans 8:29). He not only modeled sonship but also gave us the power to be the sons of God (John 1:12). What Jesus asked of his disciples 2,000 years ago He also asks of us today, "If anyone serve me let him follow me and where I am there my servant will also be and my Father will prize him" (John 12:26).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 Peter 2:21 - For you are called to this because also Christ suffered on your behalf leaving you an example that you should follow after His footsteps.
Jesus said that those who would be His disciples were called do what He did. If they were going to follow Him then they would have to take up their cross and deny themselves even as He did (Matthew 10:38; 16:24; Mark 8:34, 35; Luke 9:23-25). Although there is no need for us to actually go to a cross and die for the world, there is a need for us to deny our own self-will and live to do the will of the Father. The cross is the ultimate example of not living for oneself.
We were born of God to no longer live according to the will of man but to live according to God's will (1 Peter 4:2; Matthew 7:21; 12:50; John 5:30). We could equally say that we have no right to make our own choices but rather choose what God has chosen for us to do in any given situation. We are to overcome just as Jesus overcame and live in this present world just as He lives today (Revelation 3:21; John 4:17).
Jesus became our example and modeled what a son of God was supposed to be like and God has predetermined that we should be conformed to His image (Romans 8:29). He not only modeled sonship but also gave us the power to be the sons of God (John 1:12). What Jesus asked of his disciples 2,000 years ago He also asks of us today, "If anyone serve me let him follow me and where I am there my servant will also be and my Father will prize him" (John 12:26).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/13/07
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
abidingplace.org
John 15:7 - If you dwell in me and my words dwell in you then you may ask what you desire and it shall be done for you.
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
abidingplace.org
Monday, March 12, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/12/07
John 4:4 - "You are from God little children and have conquered them because greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world."
Jesus Christ - the one who conquered the devil and all of the power of sin - lives on the inside of every believer (1 John 3:8; John 12:31; Hebrews 2:14; 2 Timothy 1:10; Luke 10:19). Jesus Christ who is the truth, the way, and the life is the Greater One that "is in you." Jesus Christ both came in the flesh when He was born into the world and when he was born into the hearts of men by the Holy Spirit.
When we were born of the Spirit and became a new creation through the miracle of salvation, it was Christ Jesus who was formed in us (Colossians 1:27; 1 John 3:24; 1 Corinthians 2:12; Galatians 1:6; John 17:23). That Christ Jesus dwells in those who are born of God is a well-established doctrine, (1 John 3:24; John 14:20, 23; 17:23, 26).
The power of Jesus Christ in the life of the believer enables us to overcome the spirit of antichrist, the spirit of the world, and the spirit of deception. We may be confident today that all of the power of iniquity that is in the world: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life is not more powerful than Christ Jesus who lives within us. We are guaranteed by God Himself that He will go before us and fight all our battles. As we stand yielded to Him with our hands lifted in worship, God will destroy all the opposing forces that come out against us just as He did in the days of Moses (Exodus 17:11).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 4:4 - "You are from God little children and have conquered them because greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world."
Jesus Christ - the one who conquered the devil and all of the power of sin - lives on the inside of every believer (1 John 3:8; John 12:31; Hebrews 2:14; 2 Timothy 1:10; Luke 10:19). Jesus Christ who is the truth, the way, and the life is the Greater One that "is in you." Jesus Christ both came in the flesh when He was born into the world and when he was born into the hearts of men by the Holy Spirit.
When we were born of the Spirit and became a new creation through the miracle of salvation, it was Christ Jesus who was formed in us (Colossians 1:27; 1 John 3:24; 1 Corinthians 2:12; Galatians 1:6; John 17:23). That Christ Jesus dwells in those who are born of God is a well-established doctrine, (1 John 3:24; John 14:20, 23; 17:23, 26).
The power of Jesus Christ in the life of the believer enables us to overcome the spirit of antichrist, the spirit of the world, and the spirit of deception. We may be confident today that all of the power of iniquity that is in the world: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life is not more powerful than Christ Jesus who lives within us. We are guaranteed by God Himself that He will go before us and fight all our battles. As we stand yielded to Him with our hands lifted in worship, God will destroy all the opposing forces that come out against us just as He did in the days of Moses (Exodus 17:11).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/10/07
Romans 7:25 - "(I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord). So then I myself serve the law of God with my mind and the law of sin with my flesh."
Paul's message in Romans chapter 7 is one that describes the absolute inability of the law to bring anyone into the glorious liberty of the sons of God. He drives home the fact that those who trust in the law are under the bondage of sin and are powerless to overcome it. He proves that although God's law describes God's righteousness, no observer of the law through the works of the law was able to walk in the glory of God's commandments.
In fact, where can anyone find in the New Testament the idea that God requires His saints to serve the Law? Furthermore, where in the New Testament can anyone find any supporting scriptures that the people of God are to serve God with their minds (Gr.- nous)? The answer is, nowhere! And in reality if we heard anyone even begin to teach such a thing we would all rise up and say, heresy!
The New Testament communicates a very different Gospel message than this. Our minds are to be submitted to the mind of Christ and governed by the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:27; 12:2; 1 Corinthians 2:16; Ephesians 4:23; Philippians 2:5; 4:7; Hebrews 8:10, 10:16; 1 Peter 4:1). The natural mind of man is the enemy of God and cannot be subject to Him (Romans 8:6-7; Ephesians 2:3).
When we look at the opening statements of Romans chapter 7, we discover that Paul is continuing his argument as to why no one should in any way trust in the Law in an attempt to please God (Romans 7:1, 4, 6). He makes it very clear that the saints are not under the Law nor bound by the power of sin before he sets out to describe the spiritual condition of those who trust in the Law (Romans 7:4-6). We must understand that the statement, "I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord" is simply a parenthetical statement. Paul makes this statement as he pauses for a moment in describing this desperate circumstance which he and all other observers of the law found themselves in. Through Christ Jesus, every yoke of that sin has been broken, and as those who are a new creation in Christ Jesus, we serve God with a new heart and rely upon the Holy Spirit for the divine ability to do all that pleases the Father (Romans 6:4, 6-7, 12, 14, 17-18; 8:2, 4, 9, 14-16, 26-27, 29, 31).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Romans 7:25 - "(I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord). So then I myself serve the law of God with my mind and the law of sin with my flesh."
Paul's message in Romans chapter 7 is one that describes the absolute inability of the law to bring anyone into the glorious liberty of the sons of God. He drives home the fact that those who trust in the law are under the bondage of sin and are powerless to overcome it. He proves that although God's law describes God's righteousness, no observer of the law through the works of the law was able to walk in the glory of God's commandments.
In fact, where can anyone find in the New Testament the idea that God requires His saints to serve the Law? Furthermore, where in the New Testament can anyone find any supporting scriptures that the people of God are to serve God with their minds (Gr.- nous)? The answer is, nowhere! And in reality if we heard anyone even begin to teach such a thing we would all rise up and say, heresy!
The New Testament communicates a very different Gospel message than this. Our minds are to be submitted to the mind of Christ and governed by the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:27; 12:2; 1 Corinthians 2:16; Ephesians 4:23; Philippians 2:5; 4:7; Hebrews 8:10, 10:16; 1 Peter 4:1). The natural mind of man is the enemy of God and cannot be subject to Him (Romans 8:6-7; Ephesians 2:3).
When we look at the opening statements of Romans chapter 7, we discover that Paul is continuing his argument as to why no one should in any way trust in the Law in an attempt to please God (Romans 7:1, 4, 6). He makes it very clear that the saints are not under the Law nor bound by the power of sin before he sets out to describe the spiritual condition of those who trust in the Law (Romans 7:4-6). We must understand that the statement, "I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord" is simply a parenthetical statement. Paul makes this statement as he pauses for a moment in describing this desperate circumstance which he and all other observers of the law found themselves in. Through Christ Jesus, every yoke of that sin has been broken, and as those who are a new creation in Christ Jesus, we serve God with a new heart and rely upon the Holy Spirit for the divine ability to do all that pleases the Father (Romans 6:4, 6-7, 12, 14, 17-18; 8:2, 4, 9, 14-16, 26-27, 29, 31).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Friday, March 09, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/09/07
1 John 3:11 - "Because this is the message that you have heard from the beginning, that you should love one another."
This unchanging message of God to man is one that calls all men to the realm of God's love. This is the message that is behind every message in the Bible. God is love, and if we are going to know Him and walk with Him then we must be willing to be obedient to His love (Romans 13:8, 10; Matthew 22:40).
The message of God's love was delivered to us in its greatest form when Jesus suffered and died for us. John uses this same word when he describes to us that God is Light and in Him is no darkness at all (1 John 1:5). There should be no greater desire in man than to know this kind of love and this kind of light. How safe our souls should feel that the God of the Universe is so disposed to the nature of unchanging love (1 John 4:7-8; Hebrews 13:8; James 1:17).
If you know God then you will learn to walk in His love and in His Light. First of all to be loved by Him and then to learn to love Him in return. If you are willing to walk in God's love then most of the decisions that you will face in your interaction with others are already defined; you will love them just as God loves them.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 John 3:11 - "Because this is the message that you have heard from the beginning, that you should love one another."
This unchanging message of God to man is one that calls all men to the realm of God's love. This is the message that is behind every message in the Bible. God is love, and if we are going to know Him and walk with Him then we must be willing to be obedient to His love (Romans 13:8, 10; Matthew 22:40).
The message of God's love was delivered to us in its greatest form when Jesus suffered and died for us. John uses this same word when he describes to us that God is Light and in Him is no darkness at all (1 John 1:5). There should be no greater desire in man than to know this kind of love and this kind of light. How safe our souls should feel that the God of the Universe is so disposed to the nature of unchanging love (1 John 4:7-8; Hebrews 13:8; James 1:17).
If you know God then you will learn to walk in His love and in His Light. First of all to be loved by Him and then to learn to love Him in return. If you are willing to walk in God's love then most of the decisions that you will face in your interaction with others are already defined; you will love them just as God loves them.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/08/07
1 John 3:4 - "Everyone who acts sinfully also does iniquity, for sin is the iniquity."
The word "anomia" may be translated, "without law, lawlessness, transgression of the law, iniquity." In the Septuagint we read "Happy are they whose iniquities (anomia) were forgiven and whose sins (harmatia) were covered," Psalms 32:1. And in the New Testament in Matthew 13:41, "The Son of man shall send out his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that cause to stumble (scandalon), and them which do iniquity (anomia)."
It is translated by the Hebrew word "beleeaal" or "belial" in Psalms 18:4 KJV/18:5 BHS/17:5 LXX. Although, "belial" means "worthlessness, ungodly or wicked men" it became a technical term for the devil in both the community of Qumran and in the New Testament. 2 Corinthians 6:14-15 says: "for what partnership has righteousness with iniquity (anomia)? and what fellowship has light with darkness? And what common has Christ with Belial?"
We are not the sons of belieal that we should walk in iniquity and sin (John 8:44; Ephesians 2:2; 1 John 3:8). We are the sons of God and are to in every way imitate our Father which is in Heaven (1 John 3:1-2, 7; John 1:12; Ephesians 5:1).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 John 3:4 - "Everyone who acts sinfully also does iniquity, for sin is the iniquity."
The word "anomia" may be translated, "without law, lawlessness, transgression of the law, iniquity." In the Septuagint we read "Happy are they whose iniquities (anomia) were forgiven and whose sins (harmatia) were covered," Psalms 32:1. And in the New Testament in Matthew 13:41, "The Son of man shall send out his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that cause to stumble (scandalon), and them which do iniquity (anomia)."
It is translated by the Hebrew word "beleeaal" or "belial" in Psalms 18:4 KJV/18:5 BHS/17:5 LXX. Although, "belial" means "worthlessness, ungodly or wicked men" it became a technical term for the devil in both the community of Qumran and in the New Testament. 2 Corinthians 6:14-15 says: "for what partnership has righteousness with iniquity (anomia)? and what fellowship has light with darkness? And what common has Christ with Belial?"
We are not the sons of belieal that we should walk in iniquity and sin (John 8:44; Ephesians 2:2; 1 John 3:8). We are the sons of God and are to in every way imitate our Father which is in Heaven (1 John 3:1-2, 7; John 1:12; Ephesians 5:1).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/07/07
1 John 2:19 - "They went out from us but they were not of us. If they had been of us they would have remained with us. Nevertheless it is revealed that none of them are of us."
Betrayal and broken fellowship is the hallmark of rejecting Jesus. Judas was, of course, the model of this broken trust. One of the primary themes of the first Epistle of John is the love of the brethren and the fellowship that results. John takes the position early on in this Epistle that redemption and fellowship are equally the results of fellowship with God, "If we walk in the light as He is in the light then we have fellowship one with another and the blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanses us from all sin" (1 John 1:7).
The fellowship that we have with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is equated to the fellowship that we have with those who are begotten of God (1 John 3:17; 4:12, 20; 5:2). If an individual does not have fellowship with God then he cannot have fellowship with those who are begotten of God, and, conversely, if there is no fellowship with the brethren, there is no fellowship with God. The Epistle of 1 John provides the proofs of fellowship to distinguish between those who are of God and those who are deceivers. The chief characteristic that John gives of those who have been born of God is the love one for another. Beloved, let us love one another (1 John 4:7-8; John 13:35).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 John 2:19 - "They went out from us but they were not of us. If they had been of us they would have remained with us. Nevertheless it is revealed that none of them are of us."
Betrayal and broken fellowship is the hallmark of rejecting Jesus. Judas was, of course, the model of this broken trust. One of the primary themes of the first Epistle of John is the love of the brethren and the fellowship that results. John takes the position early on in this Epistle that redemption and fellowship are equally the results of fellowship with God, "If we walk in the light as He is in the light then we have fellowship one with another and the blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanses us from all sin" (1 John 1:7).
The fellowship that we have with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is equated to the fellowship that we have with those who are begotten of God (1 John 3:17; 4:12, 20; 5:2). If an individual does not have fellowship with God then he cannot have fellowship with those who are begotten of God, and, conversely, if there is no fellowship with the brethren, there is no fellowship with God. The Epistle of 1 John provides the proofs of fellowship to distinguish between those who are of God and those who are deceivers. The chief characteristic that John gives of those who have been born of God is the love one for another. Beloved, let us love one another (1 John 4:7-8; John 13:35).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/06/07
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 phrase used here is "he epithymai tes sarkos" (the desire of the flesh) is one of the identifiers of those who are not born of God (of the Father). The desire of the flesh is opposite to the desire of the Spirit as the love of the Father is opposite to the love of the world. The love of the Father teaches us to "deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live righteously, godly, and soberly in this present world" Titus 2:12. The word "epithymai" means "desire, wish," and it is used in both a good and bad sense. In Philippians 1:23, Paul says, "My desire is to be with Christ." On the other hand, it is used in a bad sense in John 8:44, "The Devil is your father and you carry out the desires of your father."
There are two approaches to understanding the "desires of the flesh," either in the Greek sense or the Hebrew. The Hebrew concept of the "sarx" (flesh) includes all of man's weaknesses - not just sensual or carnal but the realm of the purely human without divine help. This is still witnessed in the New Testament where the "sarx" may be regarded as human knowledge (flesh and blood) distinct from divine revelation (Matthew 16:17; Galatians 1:16; John 8:15). Paul also regards the flesh as the power of sin that is opposed to the Spirit of God, a power that is removed by the circumcision of Christ (Romans 7:5; Colossians 2:11).
The Greeks exclusively use "sarx" to refer to eating, drinking, and illicit sexual relations. They would regard "sarx" as that which is sensual and carnal and opposed to anything spiritual or pious. Now when we find flesh in the Bible, it would be incorrect to jump to a conclusion that every usage of "flesh" refers only to those things that are evil; for Christ Jesus was manifested in the flesh and suffered in the flesh. However, when we focus in on the phrase "desire of the flesh" we find an exclusive application to that which is opposite of the Spirit of God and contrary to the will of the Father. "Put on Christ and make no provision for the 'desires of the flesh' ;" "Walk in the Spirit and you shall not fulfill the desires of the flesh;" "Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires," Romans 13:14; Galatians 5:16-17, 24.
In the New Testament, a clear distinction is made between those of the Spirit and those of the flesh. Yet, at the same time, we know that Jesus became flesh and lived after the Spirit. Still the fact remains that the distinction between the flesh and the Spirit can be as radical as that of Light and darkness or simply a contrast between human ability and divine ability (Galatians 4:22-29). However, there is one thing that we can be certain of: God makes it essential that all men are born of the Spirit and live after the Spirit, (John 3:6; Romans 8:9; 1 Peter 4:1). Now through the Grace of God that has brought to us this radical transformation of nature, we are "not in the flesh, but in the Spirit" (Romans 8:9). Therefore, let's yield to the Holy Spirit today and let Him lead us and guide us in every desire of our lives.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
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 phrase used here is "he epithymai tes sarkos" (the desire of the flesh) is one of the identifiers of those who are not born of God (of the Father). The desire of the flesh is opposite to the desire of the Spirit as the love of the Father is opposite to the love of the world. The love of the Father teaches us to "deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live righteously, godly, and soberly in this present world" Titus 2:12. The word "epithymai" means "desire, wish," and it is used in both a good and bad sense. In Philippians 1:23, Paul says, "My desire is to be with Christ." On the other hand, it is used in a bad sense in John 8:44, "The Devil is your father and you carry out the desires of your father."
There are two approaches to understanding the "desires of the flesh," either in the Greek sense or the Hebrew. The Hebrew concept of the "sarx" (flesh) includes all of man's weaknesses - not just sensual or carnal but the realm of the purely human without divine help. This is still witnessed in the New Testament where the "sarx" may be regarded as human knowledge (flesh and blood) distinct from divine revelation (Matthew 16:17; Galatians 1:16; John 8:15). Paul also regards the flesh as the power of sin that is opposed to the Spirit of God, a power that is removed by the circumcision of Christ (Romans 7:5; Colossians 2:11).
The Greeks exclusively use "sarx" to refer to eating, drinking, and illicit sexual relations. They would regard "sarx" as that which is sensual and carnal and opposed to anything spiritual or pious. Now when we find flesh in the Bible, it would be incorrect to jump to a conclusion that every usage of "flesh" refers only to those things that are evil; for Christ Jesus was manifested in the flesh and suffered in the flesh. However, when we focus in on the phrase "desire of the flesh" we find an exclusive application to that which is opposite of the Spirit of God and contrary to the will of the Father. "Put on Christ and make no provision for the 'desires of the flesh' ;" "Walk in the Spirit and you shall not fulfill the desires of the flesh;" "Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires," Romans 13:14; Galatians 5:16-17, 24.
In the New Testament, a clear distinction is made between those of the Spirit and those of the flesh. Yet, at the same time, we know that Jesus became flesh and lived after the Spirit. Still the fact remains that the distinction between the flesh and the Spirit can be as radical as that of Light and darkness or simply a contrast between human ability and divine ability (Galatians 4:22-29). However, there is one thing that we can be certain of: God makes it essential that all men are born of the Spirit and live after the Spirit, (John 3:6; Romans 8:9; 1 Peter 4:1). Now through the Grace of God that has brought to us this radical transformation of nature, we are "not in the flesh, but in the Spirit" (Romans 8:9). Therefore, let's yield to the Holy Spirit today and let Him lead us and guide us in every desire of our lives.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Monday, March 05, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/05/07
1 John 4:11 - "Beloved if God so loved us we ought to love one another."
The kind of love that Father demands that we have for one another is the same love that was extended to us when Jesus died for our sins on the cross. True love is God's love, and His love has been given to us by the Holy Spirit. We have been given the privilege of not only being beneficiaries of His love but we are also empowered to reveal His love. There is no greater command! There is no greater proof of salvation! (John 13:34-35; 15:12; Colossians 3:14; 1 Thessalonians 4:9; 1 Peter 4:8; 1 John 3:11, 23; Jude 21) The most important thing to God is that we walk in His love. There is no justifiable reason to ever stop loving the people of God even to the point of laying our lives down for them. God has called us to be those who obey Him and follow Him by walking in the same kind of love that He Himself has (Ephesians 5:1-2).
Walk in love,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 John 4:11 - "Beloved if God so loved us we ought to love one another."
The kind of love that Father demands that we have for one another is the same love that was extended to us when Jesus died for our sins on the cross. True love is God's love, and His love has been given to us by the Holy Spirit. We have been given the privilege of not only being beneficiaries of His love but we are also empowered to reveal His love. There is no greater command! There is no greater proof of salvation! (John 13:34-35; 15:12; Colossians 3:14; 1 Thessalonians 4:9; 1 Peter 4:8; 1 John 3:11, 23; Jude 21) The most important thing to God is that we walk in His love. There is no justifiable reason to ever stop loving the people of God even to the point of laying our lives down for them. God has called us to be those who obey Him and follow Him by walking in the same kind of love that He Himself has (Ephesians 5:1-2).
Walk in love,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
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