Daily Bread - MAR/03/07
Ephesians 6:17 - "And receive the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit which is the proclamation of God."
When we consider the weapons of our warfare mentioned in 2 Corinthians 10:4, nothing stands out as much as the sword of the Spirit. Although there are two weapons mentioned in the New Testament, the Sword of the Spirit has the supreme position (Romans 6:13). The real challenge that we face in every trial that we encounter is whether or not we are going to believe God's word or the report of man. If we take up God's word, it becomes the sword of the Lord in our hand and in our mouth that destroys all of those things that would attempt to destroy us and steal the blessings of God from us. The only way to effectively stand fast against all that Satan would do to oppose us whether spiritual, physical, or financial is to have the high praises of God upon our lips and this sharp two-edged sword in our hands (Psalms 149:6).
Just as our Lord Jesus Christ will slay the enemies of God with the sword of His mouth, we too will destroy every opposing force of man and devils by the word of God (Revelation 19:15, 21; 1 John 2:14). The Greek phrase "rhema Theo" (word of God) is found 4 times in the New Testament. The first time is in Luke 3:2, "the rhema of God came upon John." In John 8:47, Jesus said, "he that is of God hears God's rhema." Paul uses this phrase in Romans 10:17, "Faith is from hearing and the hearing through the rhema of God." And then finally in Hebrews 11:3, "We understand faith framed the ages by the rhema of God" (keeping in mind that in Psalms 33:6, logos is used, "by the logos of YHWH the heavens were made").
The first time that "rhema" is found in the Old Testament is in Genesis 15:1, "After these things the rhema of YHWH came to Abram in a vision." The Greek word "rhema" is derived from the word "rheo" which means "to speak" or "to utter.". However, the primary Greek word for "word" in both the Old and New Testaments is "logos". The Greek word "logos" occurs 330 times whereas "rhema" occurs 70 times in the New Testament. The Greek word "logos" is found 1239 times in the Septuagint and "rhema" is found 546 times. The Greek words "logos and rhema" are translated by the same Hebrew words. However, 90% of the time "logos" translated the Hebrew word "dabar", which is the exclusive word for the "written word" or Mosaic Law in Biblical Hebrew. Yet at the same time "rhema" dominates the translation for "dabar" in the Pentateuch whereas "logos" is dominate among the prophets.
The word "logos" is used to identify the Lord Jesus Christ as the Word (logos) of God (John 1:1) but rhema is never is used in this way. Although, "logos" is primarily used to identify the written word of God "rhema" is also used for the written word of God in Matthew 4:4. The phrase "logos tou Theo" (the word of God) is found a total of 12 times in the New Testament (Luke 8:11, John 10:35, Acts 6:7, 12:24, 17:13, Romans 9:6, 1 Corinthians 14:36, 2 Timothy 2:9, Titus 2:5, Hebrews 4:12, 1 John 2:14, Revelation 19:13). Even though both "logos" and "rhema" are accurately translated "word," there is reason to believe that "logos" is the more exclusive word for denoting the written word of God. Obviously, God gave a special meaning to the word "logos" by identifying it with the Eternal Word who became His only begotten Son. "What characterizes the use of logos in the NT is not some new meaning for the word beyond what is found in the Septuagint but its reference to the divine revelation of God through Jesus Christ and his messengers" (The Anchor Bible Dictionary). On the other hand, rhema may be understood to have a unique role in referring to the proclamations, or utterances of God, which extend beyond the written word and includes those who have been given the Spirit to speak as the oracles of God (1 Peter 4:11).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Note: scripture references will be linked on Monday as I don't currently have access to that functionality. Blessings!!! Carol :)
Saturday, March 03, 2007
Friday, March 02, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/02/07
Ephesians 5:18 - "And be not drunk with wine which is as one unsaved but be filled with the Spirit."
The Greek word used here is "asotia" which is a compound word of "a" and "sozo;" this word literally means "not saved" or "unsaved." The Greek word "sozo" is the primary New Testament word used to describe the salvation that comes through the name of Jesus Christ. The Greek letter "a" is used just as in the English language as a negative prefix to emphasize the complete absence of something.
The context of "asotia" in 1 Peter 4:3 leaves no doubt concerning the meaning of this word; it means unsaved referring to those who have not been made a new creation. This word is found one time in the Old Testament, and it translates the Hebrew word 'zala" which means "worthless," "vile." It is found three times in the New Testament: Ephesians 5:18, and then in Titus 1:6 and 1 Peter 4:4 where it is translated "riot" by the Authorized Version.
The idea of drinking alcohol is condemned in the Old Testament as exemplified by these scriptures: "Do not look at the wine when it is red, when it gives its color in the cup, when it goes down smoothly; at its last it bites like a snake, and it stings like a basilisk. Your eyes shall look on strange women, and your heart shall speak perverse things;" also, "But they also have gone astray by wine and have erred through fermented drink; priest and prophet have erred through fermented drink; they have been swallowed by wine; they strayed from fermented drink; they err in seeing; they stumble in judgment;" (Proverbs 23:31-33; Isaiah 28:7 - Greens Literal Translation). Furthermore, no one could come into the presence of the Lord if they had partaken of wine or strong (fermented) drink or they would have been put to death by the Lord (Leviticus 10:9; Ezekiel 44:21).
During Old Testament times, the strongest alcoholic drink that they could make would be equivalent to our modern day beer. The word drunkenness - which is condemned as one of the seventeen works of the flesh - may literally be translated intoxication. Paul announced twice in scripture that those who practice getting intoxicated have no inheritance the Kingdom of God (Galatians 5:21; 1 Corinthians 6:10). Paul tells the church not to so much as eat with someone who practices intoxication (1 Corinthians 5:11). Intoxication is marked as a practice of the children of disobedience a total of 10 times in the New Testament (Romans 13:13; 1 Peter 4:3; 1 Corinthians 6:10; 1 Corinthians 5:11; Luke 21:34; Ephesians 5:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:7; Matthew 24:49; Luke 12:45).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Ephesians 5:18 - "And be not drunk with wine which is as one unsaved but be filled with the Spirit."
The Greek word used here is "asotia" which is a compound word of "a" and "sozo;" this word literally means "not saved" or "unsaved." The Greek word "sozo" is the primary New Testament word used to describe the salvation that comes through the name of Jesus Christ. The Greek letter "a" is used just as in the English language as a negative prefix to emphasize the complete absence of something.
The context of "asotia" in 1 Peter 4:3 leaves no doubt concerning the meaning of this word; it means unsaved referring to those who have not been made a new creation. This word is found one time in the Old Testament, and it translates the Hebrew word 'zala" which means "worthless," "vile." It is found three times in the New Testament: Ephesians 5:18, and then in Titus 1:6 and 1 Peter 4:4 where it is translated "riot" by the Authorized Version.
The idea of drinking alcohol is condemned in the Old Testament as exemplified by these scriptures: "Do not look at the wine when it is red, when it gives its color in the cup, when it goes down smoothly; at its last it bites like a snake, and it stings like a basilisk. Your eyes shall look on strange women, and your heart shall speak perverse things;" also, "But they also have gone astray by wine and have erred through fermented drink; priest and prophet have erred through fermented drink; they have been swallowed by wine; they strayed from fermented drink; they err in seeing; they stumble in judgment;" (Proverbs 23:31-33; Isaiah 28:7 - Greens Literal Translation). Furthermore, no one could come into the presence of the Lord if they had partaken of wine or strong (fermented) drink or they would have been put to death by the Lord (Leviticus 10:9; Ezekiel 44:21).
During Old Testament times, the strongest alcoholic drink that they could make would be equivalent to our modern day beer. The word drunkenness - which is condemned as one of the seventeen works of the flesh - may literally be translated intoxication. Paul announced twice in scripture that those who practice getting intoxicated have no inheritance the Kingdom of God (Galatians 5:21; 1 Corinthians 6:10). Paul tells the church not to so much as eat with someone who practices intoxication (1 Corinthians 5:11). Intoxication is marked as a practice of the children of disobedience a total of 10 times in the New Testament (Romans 13:13; 1 Peter 4:3; 1 Corinthians 6:10; 1 Corinthians 5:11; Luke 21:34; Ephesians 5:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:7; Matthew 24:49; Luke 12:45).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Daily Bread - MAR/01/07
Ephesians 5:9 - "For the fruit of the Spirit, in all goodness and righteousness and truth..."
Our primary focus must be on righteousness which has been both imputed and imparted to us by the grace of our Righteous God. God's righteousness is supplied to us by the Holy Spirit and operates in our lives through His working power which works in our lives (Romans 8:4; 2 Corinthians 5:21). Righteousness is the chief characteristic of the Kingdom of God and that which is to receive the foremost attention in our lives (Matthew 6:33; Romans 14:17).
Righteousness is to be the focus of our faith and the desire of our heart every day (Romans 10:6, 10; Galatians 3:11; Philippians 3:9). God demands that we awake to the righteousness that we have been given and sin no more (1 Corinthians 15:34). We should recognize that we live under the administration of righteousness and that we are to walk with the protective armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left (2 Corinthians 3:9; 6:7; 1 Timothy 6:11). Walking in righteousness is the proof that we have been born of God, and it is the light that the world needs to see (1 John 2:29; 3:7; Matthew 5:14-16).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Ephesians 5:9 - "For the fruit of the Spirit, in all goodness and righteousness and truth..."
Our primary focus must be on righteousness which has been both imputed and imparted to us by the grace of our Righteous God. God's righteousness is supplied to us by the Holy Spirit and operates in our lives through His working power which works in our lives (Romans 8:4; 2 Corinthians 5:21). Righteousness is the chief characteristic of the Kingdom of God and that which is to receive the foremost attention in our lives (Matthew 6:33; Romans 14:17).
Righteousness is to be the focus of our faith and the desire of our heart every day (Romans 10:6, 10; Galatians 3:11; Philippians 3:9). God demands that we awake to the righteousness that we have been given and sin no more (1 Corinthians 15:34). We should recognize that we live under the administration of righteousness and that we are to walk with the protective armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left (2 Corinthians 3:9; 6:7; 1 Timothy 6:11). Walking in righteousness is the proof that we have been born of God, and it is the light that the world needs to see (1 John 2:29; 3:7; Matthew 5:14-16).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Daily Bread - FEB/28/07
1 Corinthians 15:1-2 - "But brothers I make known to you the gospel which I preached to you, which you also received, in which you also stand. Through which you are also being kept safe, if you hold fast to the word, which I preached to you, lest you believed in vain.
The context demands a rendering of either "safe" or "whole." Although the Greek word "sotzo" is the common word for "saved" there are several places in the New Testament where the context calls for different aspects of this word to be brought out. For example, the meaning of sotzo is properly rendered "made whole" with respect to physical health in Matthew 9:21, 22; Mark 5:23, 28, 34; 6:56; 10:52; Luke 8:48, 50; 17:19; Acts 4:9; 14:9; also the meaning of "keep safe" may be observed in 2 Timothy 4:18 and John 12:27. In fact, "sotzo" may refer to either spiritual, physical, or financial rescue from God. The context of 1 Corinthians 15:2 is more suited to the good health and well-being of a person rather than the salvation of the soul.
Some even attempt to make the salvation of the soul a work in process instead of the miracle transformation which it is (John 3:5-6; Colossians 1:14; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Romans 8:9). This phrase is also rendered, "by which you also are being kept safe" by Green's Literal Translation. The fact is that the word of God reveals to us that we have been saved from the former way of life. We have been made new creatures; old things have passed away, and all things have been made new (2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 6:15).
When we define salvation as the act whereby we were redeemed, then the testimony of the New Testament gives us the assurance that we are redeemed and that we belong wholly to God. Without looking beyond the letters that Paul wrote to the church of Corinth, we find the absolute testimony of this salvation. The opening statements to the church of Corinth set the tone for this in that Paul wrote, "to the sanctified ones who were called to be holy ones" (1 Corinthians 1:2). There are numerous verses of scripture in this first letter to the Corinthians that testify to the fact that Paul believed and taught that salvation was an event that had already taken place for those who believed (1 Corinthians 1:8-9, 18, 21; 2:12, 16; 3:9, 16, 23; 4:17, 19-20; 6:1-2, 10, 15, 17, 19-20; 7:23; 10:17; 12:13, 27; 15:17).
When we consider Paul's writings as a whole, then the present reality of salvation is witnessed hundreds of times. We are presently being kept safe by the power of God (1 Peter 1:5; John 10:28; 17:11, 15). But it is essential that we stand in the power and authority that He has entrusted us with. If we do not hold fast to the word of the gospel, then we will find ourselves without the blessings and promises of God.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 Corinthians 15:1-2 - "But brothers I make known to you the gospel which I preached to you, which you also received, in which you also stand. Through which you are also being kept safe, if you hold fast to the word, which I preached to you, lest you believed in vain.
The context demands a rendering of either "safe" or "whole." Although the Greek word "sotzo" is the common word for "saved" there are several places in the New Testament where the context calls for different aspects of this word to be brought out. For example, the meaning of sotzo is properly rendered "made whole" with respect to physical health in Matthew 9:21, 22; Mark 5:23, 28, 34; 6:56; 10:52; Luke 8:48, 50; 17:19; Acts 4:9; 14:9; also the meaning of "keep safe" may be observed in 2 Timothy 4:18 and John 12:27. In fact, "sotzo" may refer to either spiritual, physical, or financial rescue from God. The context of 1 Corinthians 15:2 is more suited to the good health and well-being of a person rather than the salvation of the soul.
Some even attempt to make the salvation of the soul a work in process instead of the miracle transformation which it is (John 3:5-6; Colossians 1:14; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Romans 8:9). This phrase is also rendered, "by which you also are being kept safe" by Green's Literal Translation. The fact is that the word of God reveals to us that we have been saved from the former way of life. We have been made new creatures; old things have passed away, and all things have been made new (2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 6:15).
When we define salvation as the act whereby we were redeemed, then the testimony of the New Testament gives us the assurance that we are redeemed and that we belong wholly to God. Without looking beyond the letters that Paul wrote to the church of Corinth, we find the absolute testimony of this salvation. The opening statements to the church of Corinth set the tone for this in that Paul wrote, "to the sanctified ones who were called to be holy ones" (1 Corinthians 1:2). There are numerous verses of scripture in this first letter to the Corinthians that testify to the fact that Paul believed and taught that salvation was an event that had already taken place for those who believed (1 Corinthians 1:8-9, 18, 21; 2:12, 16; 3:9, 16, 23; 4:17, 19-20; 6:1-2, 10, 15, 17, 19-20; 7:23; 10:17; 12:13, 27; 15:17).
When we consider Paul's writings as a whole, then the present reality of salvation is witnessed hundreds of times. We are presently being kept safe by the power of God (1 Peter 1:5; John 10:28; 17:11, 15). But it is essential that we stand in the power and authority that He has entrusted us with. If we do not hold fast to the word of the gospel, then we will find ourselves without the blessings and promises of God.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Daily Bread - FEB/27/07
Ephesians 4:16 - "From whom all the body fit together and joined together through that which every joint supplies according to the working of each part as one unit the body grows by building itself in love."
One of the themes of Ephesians is the "love of Christ." It is here that we find the key to not only our individual maturity and success but also to that of the local church to which we belong. First, on an individual basis, Paul opens this address to the Ephesians by drawing their attention to the fact that from the very foundation of the earth we were created to be holy and without blame before God in love (Ephesians 1:4). By being established in this love, we are able to comprehend with all saints the breadth, and length, and depth, and height of every dimension of God's plan and purpose for our lives (Ephesians 3:17). It is also through knowing the love of Christ that we are individually filled with all the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:19).
Then Paul brings us to this point in Ephesians Chapter Four where he shows us how to function together in love which results in the building up and the full maturity of the local church. The local church, which Paul revealed to be the fullness of God in Chapter One, is also in a maturing process. The maturity of the church is dependent upon the individuals within the church walking in love and then ministering that love one to another. The result of this maturity is the full expression of the glory and power of Jesus Christ in our meetings, who is the head of the church.
Walk in love,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Ephesians 4:16 - "From whom all the body fit together and joined together through that which every joint supplies according to the working of each part as one unit the body grows by building itself in love."
One of the themes of Ephesians is the "love of Christ." It is here that we find the key to not only our individual maturity and success but also to that of the local church to which we belong. First, on an individual basis, Paul opens this address to the Ephesians by drawing their attention to the fact that from the very foundation of the earth we were created to be holy and without blame before God in love (Ephesians 1:4). By being established in this love, we are able to comprehend with all saints the breadth, and length, and depth, and height of every dimension of God's plan and purpose for our lives (Ephesians 3:17). It is also through knowing the love of Christ that we are individually filled with all the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:19).
Then Paul brings us to this point in Ephesians Chapter Four where he shows us how to function together in love which results in the building up and the full maturity of the local church. The local church, which Paul revealed to be the fullness of God in Chapter One, is also in a maturing process. The maturity of the church is dependent upon the individuals within the church walking in love and then ministering that love one to another. The result of this maturity is the full expression of the glory and power of Jesus Christ in our meetings, who is the head of the church.
Walk in love,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Monday, February 26, 2007
Daily Bread - FEB/26/07
Ephesians 4:13 - "Until we all come to the oneness of faith and the full knowledge of the Son of God unto a perfect man to the measure of the maturity of the fullness of Christ."
There are two challenging and yet glorious privileges expressed in this verse: First "the measure of the maturity of Christ" and second "the fullness of Christ." The fullness of Christ in ministry is promised to the believer by Jesus when He said, "He that believes on me the works that I do shall he do also and greater" (John 14:12).
When Jesus was baptized in the Spirit, He was filled with the Spirit without measure (John 3:34; http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%203:16;&version=9;). Jesus came as the express image of the Father filled with all of the fullness of God (Colossians 1:19; 2:9). God made it possible for us to be filled with all of the fullness of Christ Jesus, first, by the new birth, and, secondly, through the Baptism of the Spirit. When we were born of the Spirit, Christ Jesus was formed in us (Colossians 1:27; Galatians 4:19; 1 John 4:4; Romans 8:29). This new creature that is created in Christ Jesus possesses both the abiding presence of the Father, the Lord Jesus, and the Holy Spirit (John 14:23; 1 John 3:24).
Paul testified that he had received the fullness of Christ when he declared to the Romans that he would "come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ" (Romans 15:29) and then again when he made it known that he no longer lived but Christ which was in him (Galatians 2:20; Philippians 1:21). Paul also revealed that the fullness of God was made available to all the saints through knowing the love of Christ: "to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge so that we might be filled with all the fullness of God" (Ephesians 3:19). In fact, he revealed that the church was the fullness of Him who fills all things (Ephesians 1:23). Although we look at such a promise and are overwhelmed with amazement and a sense of impossibility, we must with awe and expectation embrace the call to this unspeakable gift of God. Father has revealed these things to us by His Spirit because it is His will for our lives. If we refuse to believe and take hold of the faith by both accepting and expecting this to be the reality of our lives, then we will certainly never realize this glorious privilege.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Ephesians 4:13 - "Until we all come to the oneness of faith and the full knowledge of the Son of God unto a perfect man to the measure of the maturity of the fullness of Christ."
There are two challenging and yet glorious privileges expressed in this verse: First "the measure of the maturity of Christ" and second "the fullness of Christ." The fullness of Christ in ministry is promised to the believer by Jesus when He said, "He that believes on me the works that I do shall he do also and greater" (John 14:12).
When Jesus was baptized in the Spirit, He was filled with the Spirit without measure (John 3:34; http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%203:16;&version=9;). Jesus came as the express image of the Father filled with all of the fullness of God (Colossians 1:19; 2:9). God made it possible for us to be filled with all of the fullness of Christ Jesus, first, by the new birth, and, secondly, through the Baptism of the Spirit. When we were born of the Spirit, Christ Jesus was formed in us (Colossians 1:27; Galatians 4:19; 1 John 4:4; Romans 8:29). This new creature that is created in Christ Jesus possesses both the abiding presence of the Father, the Lord Jesus, and the Holy Spirit (John 14:23; 1 John 3:24).
Paul testified that he had received the fullness of Christ when he declared to the Romans that he would "come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ" (Romans 15:29) and then again when he made it known that he no longer lived but Christ which was in him (Galatians 2:20; Philippians 1:21). Paul also revealed that the fullness of God was made available to all the saints through knowing the love of Christ: "to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge so that we might be filled with all the fullness of God" (Ephesians 3:19). In fact, he revealed that the church was the fullness of Him who fills all things (Ephesians 1:23). Although we look at such a promise and are overwhelmed with amazement and a sense of impossibility, we must with awe and expectation embrace the call to this unspeakable gift of God. Father has revealed these things to us by His Spirit because it is His will for our lives. If we refuse to believe and take hold of the faith by both accepting and expecting this to be the reality of our lives, then we will certainly never realize this glorious privilege.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - FEB/24/07
Acts 3:19 - "And to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God."
The very idea of the possibility of being filled with God's fullness is unimaginable. However, when we consider that we have been filled with the Holy Spirit and that Jesus and the Father have come to dwell in us we recognize that this is indeed the will of God for our lives (John 14:17, 23; Colossians 1:27; Ephesians 3:9; Luke 3:16).
The indwelling fullness of God is viewed in chapter 4 as "the measure of the maturity of the fullness of Christ" (Ephesians 4:13). The growth and maturity that we are called to in God is directly related to knowing His love. John said that if we dwell in love then we dwell in God (1 John 4:16). If there is any principle and reality in God that we must grasp it is this: we must walk in love (Ephesians 5:2; John 13:34; Ephesians 4:15).
The way of love must decide all of our responses and direct all of our decisions. The child of God must be willing to actively participate with the working of the Holy Spirit whose desire is to reveal Jesus and express the love of God through our lives (Galatians 5:22; John 16:14; Acts 1:8; Galatians 1:16; 2:20; Philippians 1:2; Romans 5:5).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Acts 3:19 - "And to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God."
The very idea of the possibility of being filled with God's fullness is unimaginable. However, when we consider that we have been filled with the Holy Spirit and that Jesus and the Father have come to dwell in us we recognize that this is indeed the will of God for our lives (John 14:17, 23; Colossians 1:27; Ephesians 3:9; Luke 3:16).
The indwelling fullness of God is viewed in chapter 4 as "the measure of the maturity of the fullness of Christ" (Ephesians 4:13). The growth and maturity that we are called to in God is directly related to knowing His love. John said that if we dwell in love then we dwell in God (1 John 4:16). If there is any principle and reality in God that we must grasp it is this: we must walk in love (Ephesians 5:2; John 13:34; Ephesians 4:15).
The way of love must decide all of our responses and direct all of our decisions. The child of God must be willing to actively participate with the working of the Holy Spirit whose desire is to reveal Jesus and express the love of God through our lives (Galatians 5:22; John 16:14; Acts 1:8; Galatians 1:16; 2:20; Philippians 1:2; Romans 5:5).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Friday, February 23, 2007
Daily Bread - FEB/23/07
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, "in that day you shall ask nothing of me;" rather, they would make their request to the Father in His name (John 16:23, 26; 15:16). This is an example of their obedience to the instructions of Jesus. Their prayer was very focused on their desire to see the name of Jesus glorified. The disciples had been threatened by the rulers of Israel to no longer speak in the name of Jesus. So in order to deal with this problem the disciples asked God, in effect, to increase the magnitude of the miracles. The reason they were in trouble in the first place was because a man who was born crippled was healed. Yet still they were crying out to God that He would do even more miracles by His Holy Child Jesus. The prayer was immediately answered and they were filled once again with the Holy Spirit.
An awesome picture of how things work in the Kingdom of God is developed in this event. The disciples, who are God's representatives on earth, ask the Father, whose purpose is to glorify His Son Jesus, to perform miracles and, as a result, the miracle power fills them once again by God the Holy Spirit. If we are to speak the word with boldness and effectiveness then we too must have the same kind of commitment, the same kind of prayer, and the same kind of empowerment (Ephesians 6:19-20).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
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, "in that day you shall ask nothing of me;" rather, they would make their request to the Father in His name (John 16:23, 26; 15:16). This is an example of their obedience to the instructions of Jesus. Their prayer was very focused on their desire to see the name of Jesus glorified. The disciples had been threatened by the rulers of Israel to no longer speak in the name of Jesus. So in order to deal with this problem the disciples asked God, in effect, to increase the magnitude of the miracles. The reason they were in trouble in the first place was because a man who was born crippled was healed. Yet still they were crying out to God that He would do even more miracles by His Holy Child Jesus. The prayer was immediately answered and they were filled once again with the Holy Spirit.
An awesome picture of how things work in the Kingdom of God is developed in this event. The disciples, who are God's representatives on earth, ask the Father, whose purpose is to glorify His Son Jesus, to perform miracles and, as a result, the miracle power fills them once again by God the Holy Spirit. If we are to speak the word with boldness and effectiveness then we too must have the same kind of commitment, the same kind of prayer, and the same kind of empowerment (Ephesians 6:19-20).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Daily Bread - FEB/22/07
Romans 8:16 - "The Spirit itself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God."
God has given us a new spirit so that we can be yielded to the Holy Spirit and do what He does, "A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you a heart of flesh" (Ezekiel 36:26; 1 Corinthians 6:17). The witness, or evidence, of the Spirit in our lives is first and foremost love, joy, and peace (Galatians 5:22; Ephesians 5:9; Romans 14:17; Philippians 1:11; 4:7; Ephesians 5:2; Philippians 4:4). For these wonderful expressions of God's glory to be revealed in our lives it is essential that we learn to yield to the Holy Spirit (Jude 1:20-21; Colossians 3:15- 16; Ephesians 5:17-20; Romans 6:13).
Every child of God must learn to recognize that the Holy Spirit desires to continually express the love of God through us in every situation that we face. If we do not recognize this then we will find ourselves continually making choices not to be led by the Spirit in our responses, and we will not have His witness. If we allow His divine rivers of love to flow out of us then we will automatically find ourselves representing Him and being doers of His word.
God has made it very simple for us to recognize the Holy Spirit; for He comes to us as joy unspeakable, peace that passes understanding, and the divine love that conquers all. If this essential witness of the Spirit is not ruling your life then simply be willing to yield to the Spirit of Truth, and the witness of the Holy Spirit will overwhelm you and wash away all of the other feelings and attitudes. The Holy Spirit is here to mentor us and show us how to function in all of these glorious ways of God's love, joy, and peace. When we recognize that this witness of the Spirit is not in our attitudes and emotions then we need to stop and yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to overwhelm our souls with His presence. As you yield to and experience the intervention of the Holy Spirit in your life you will find that a water course of glory has been cut through your soul and that you have entered into the rest (Hebrews 4:10; Matthew 11:28).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Romans 8:16 - "The Spirit itself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God."
God has given us a new spirit so that we can be yielded to the Holy Spirit and do what He does, "A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you a heart of flesh" (Ezekiel 36:26; 1 Corinthians 6:17). The witness, or evidence, of the Spirit in our lives is first and foremost love, joy, and peace (Galatians 5:22; Ephesians 5:9; Romans 14:17; Philippians 1:11; 4:7; Ephesians 5:2; Philippians 4:4). For these wonderful expressions of God's glory to be revealed in our lives it is essential that we learn to yield to the Holy Spirit (Jude 1:20-21; Colossians 3:15- 16; Ephesians 5:17-20; Romans 6:13).
Every child of God must learn to recognize that the Holy Spirit desires to continually express the love of God through us in every situation that we face. If we do not recognize this then we will find ourselves continually making choices not to be led by the Spirit in our responses, and we will not have His witness. If we allow His divine rivers of love to flow out of us then we will automatically find ourselves representing Him and being doers of His word.
God has made it very simple for us to recognize the Holy Spirit; for He comes to us as joy unspeakable, peace that passes understanding, and the divine love that conquers all. If this essential witness of the Spirit is not ruling your life then simply be willing to yield to the Spirit of Truth, and the witness of the Holy Spirit will overwhelm you and wash away all of the other feelings and attitudes. The Holy Spirit is here to mentor us and show us how to function in all of these glorious ways of God's love, joy, and peace. When we recognize that this witness of the Spirit is not in our attitudes and emotions then we need to stop and yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to overwhelm our souls with His presence. As you yield to and experience the intervention of the Holy Spirit in your life you will find that a water course of glory has been cut through your soul and that you have entered into the rest (Hebrews 4:10; Matthew 11:28).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Daily Bread - FEB/21/07
Ephesians 2:11 - "For this reason remember that you were once gentiles in the flesh called uncircumcised by those called circumcised in the flesh made by hands."
Circumcision has been elevated beyond the mere removal of the foreskin of the flesh to a change of heart or nature. Before true circumcision was made available, every person who was not born of the seed of Abraham and circumcised in the foreskin of their flesh was considered unclean and separated from any type of a relationship with God. But now it is no longer the circumcision made with hands but the circumcision of Christ that marks the true covenant child of God (Colossians 2:11; Romans 2:28-29; Galatians 5:6; 6:15; Philippians 3:3).
Those who have been redeemed are no longer called by the unclean name of "gentiles" but are called sons of God (John 1:12; Romans 8:14; 2 Corinthians 6:18; 1 John 3:1). God's desire for man was to deliver him from the dominion of sin and the "god of this world" and restore him to a place of union with Himself; circumcision of the flesh could never accomplish that. The only way the instinct and nature of man could be changed was for his heart to be changed and made pure.
An uncircumcised heart speaks of a nature twisted and dominated by sin that causes the uncleanness of spirit and soul. Through the circumcision that is in Christ Jesus that uncleanness was removed and a new heart and a new spirit sprang forth out of the darkness that was shrouded by sin (Ezekiel 36:26; 2 Corinthians 3:3; Hebrews 8:10). This spiritual circumcision of the heart is the bringing forth of a new creation in Christ that possesses the divine nature (Galatians 6:15; 2 Peter 1:4; 2 Corinthians 5:17). Through the death and resurrection of Christ Jesus we become dead to the former life and are raised up together with Christ Jesus to walk in newness of life (Romans 6:4; Colossians 2:12-13; 3:1-3). The circumcision of Christ is more than the removal of a body of foreskin; it is the removal of the body of the sins of the flesh (Colossians 2:11). It is the liberation of a heart once bound by sin to worship God in Spirit and in Truth.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Ephesians 2:11 - "For this reason remember that you were once gentiles in the flesh called uncircumcised by those called circumcised in the flesh made by hands."
Circumcision has been elevated beyond the mere removal of the foreskin of the flesh to a change of heart or nature. Before true circumcision was made available, every person who was not born of the seed of Abraham and circumcised in the foreskin of their flesh was considered unclean and separated from any type of a relationship with God. But now it is no longer the circumcision made with hands but the circumcision of Christ that marks the true covenant child of God (Colossians 2:11; Romans 2:28-29; Galatians 5:6; 6:15; Philippians 3:3).
Those who have been redeemed are no longer called by the unclean name of "gentiles" but are called sons of God (John 1:12; Romans 8:14; 2 Corinthians 6:18; 1 John 3:1). God's desire for man was to deliver him from the dominion of sin and the "god of this world" and restore him to a place of union with Himself; circumcision of the flesh could never accomplish that. The only way the instinct and nature of man could be changed was for his heart to be changed and made pure.
An uncircumcised heart speaks of a nature twisted and dominated by sin that causes the uncleanness of spirit and soul. Through the circumcision that is in Christ Jesus that uncleanness was removed and a new heart and a new spirit sprang forth out of the darkness that was shrouded by sin (Ezekiel 36:26; 2 Corinthians 3:3; Hebrews 8:10). This spiritual circumcision of the heart is the bringing forth of a new creation in Christ that possesses the divine nature (Galatians 6:15; 2 Peter 1:4; 2 Corinthians 5:17). Through the death and resurrection of Christ Jesus we become dead to the former life and are raised up together with Christ Jesus to walk in newness of life (Romans 6:4; Colossians 2:12-13; 3:1-3). The circumcision of Christ is more than the removal of a body of foreskin; it is the removal of the body of the sins of the flesh (Colossians 2:11). It is the liberation of a heart once bound by sin to worship God in Spirit and in Truth.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Daily Bread - FEB/20/07
Acts 21:10-11 - "And we remained many days in which a prophet came from Judea named Agabus. And when He was come to us and he had taken Paul's belt he bound his own hands and feet saying this is what the Holy Spirit says: the man who owns this belt shall be bound in this way by the Jews in Jerusalem and given over into the hands of Gentiles."
In the New Testament a prophet is noted for several things - one of which is the word of knowledge. The primary effect that the word of knowledge should have on people is to reveal Jesus and call them to salvation (1 Corinthians 14:24-25; John 1:49; 4:19). The first prophet mentioned in the New Testament is John the Baptist (Matthew 11:9; Luke 1:76; 7:28). The second was Jesus who was also regarded as a prophet (Matthew 13:57; 21:11; Luke 13:33; 24:19; John 7:40). When Moses spoke of the Messiah that would come, he called Him a prophet (Acts 3:22; 7:37; Deuteronomy 18:15-16,19). A total of seven prophets are named in the book of Acts; Barnabas, Simeon, Lucius, Manaen, Judas, Silas, and Agabus (Acts 13:13; 15:32; 21:10).
When Jesus was talking with the woman at the well and told her that she had been married five times and was living with a man that was not her husband, she said, "sir, I perceive that you are a prophet" (John 4:19). A similar word of knowledge had altogether a different effect on Nathaniel who through the word of knowledge that was given to him by Jesus said, "Master, you are the Son of God; You are the King of Israel." (John 1:49). Of all the prophets mentioned in the New Testament, those that we know the most about are Jesus and John the Baptist. The primary characteristic of their ministries was to call men to repentance so that they might come into the Kingdom of God (Matthew 3:2; 4:17; Mark 1:15; 6:12).
We know that God has put prophets in the ministry of the church and, therefore, so long as there is a church there will be prophets (1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11). Today, all of these ministry gifts such as apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers are the leaders of the churches and usually grouped in the category of pastors. The one outstanding exception are the evangelists. However, those evangelists that are most effective usually also have a pastoral role in some capacity. This is not because a pastoral role is essential, but the gifting itself is interwoven with the fabric of the church.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Acts 21:10-11 - "And we remained many days in which a prophet came from Judea named Agabus. And when He was come to us and he had taken Paul's belt he bound his own hands and feet saying this is what the Holy Spirit says: the man who owns this belt shall be bound in this way by the Jews in Jerusalem and given over into the hands of Gentiles."
In the New Testament a prophet is noted for several things - one of which is the word of knowledge. The primary effect that the word of knowledge should have on people is to reveal Jesus and call them to salvation (1 Corinthians 14:24-25; John 1:49; 4:19). The first prophet mentioned in the New Testament is John the Baptist (Matthew 11:9; Luke 1:76; 7:28). The second was Jesus who was also regarded as a prophet (Matthew 13:57; 21:11; Luke 13:33; 24:19; John 7:40). When Moses spoke of the Messiah that would come, he called Him a prophet (Acts 3:22; 7:37; Deuteronomy 18:15-16,19). A total of seven prophets are named in the book of Acts; Barnabas, Simeon, Lucius, Manaen, Judas, Silas, and Agabus (Acts 13:13; 15:32; 21:10).
When Jesus was talking with the woman at the well and told her that she had been married five times and was living with a man that was not her husband, she said, "sir, I perceive that you are a prophet" (John 4:19). A similar word of knowledge had altogether a different effect on Nathaniel who through the word of knowledge that was given to him by Jesus said, "Master, you are the Son of God; You are the King of Israel." (John 1:49). Of all the prophets mentioned in the New Testament, those that we know the most about are Jesus and John the Baptist. The primary characteristic of their ministries was to call men to repentance so that they might come into the Kingdom of God (Matthew 3:2; 4:17; Mark 1:15; 6:12).
We know that God has put prophets in the ministry of the church and, therefore, so long as there is a church there will be prophets (1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11). Today, all of these ministry gifts such as apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers are the leaders of the churches and usually grouped in the category of pastors. The one outstanding exception are the evangelists. However, those evangelists that are most effective usually also have a pastoral role in some capacity. This is not because a pastoral role is essential, but the gifting itself is interwoven with the fabric of the church.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - FEB/19/07
Acts 16:31 - "And they said, 'Believe upon the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved and your house.' "
The Greek word "sotzo" is translated "saved." It is used to express our rescue from sin and death in the New Testament. The redemption that is in Christ Jesus has brought "sotzo" to our spirit, soul, and body. This word not only refers to being delivered from the sinful nature but also preserved and protected against future assaults by Satan. It is a word that is used to describe healing of the body from sickness and disease as much as deliverance of the spirit and soul from sin and death (Mark 5:23; 10:52; Luke 8:36,48,50; James 5:15; Galatians 2:20).
Although the word appears 364 times in the Old Testament, it is first observed in the New Testament in Matthew 1:21, "And she shall bring forth a son, and you shall call his name JESUS: for He shall save His people from their sins." The Lord Jesus has not only promised to save us by simply asking Him to do so, He has also promised to protect and keep us (Jude 24; 1 Peter 1:5; John 10:28; 17:11, 12, 15; Romans 8:38-39; Philippians 1:6).
You may truly rest safely when Christ Jesus has saved you; for He is the good shepherd who has laid down His life for His sheep. He is the one who will keep that which we have committed unto Him (2 Timothy 1:12; Hebrews 12:2; Romans 15:13; Ephesians 1:13; Philippians 3:21; Hebrews 2:18; 7:25) . He is still the good shepherd today who is watching over His sheep to protect and defend them against every evil thing. He is the one who will never leave you nor forsake you. He will always uphold you and will perfect everything that concerns you.
It is Jesus who forever lives to make intercession for us as the one who authored and finished our salvation. All of these past and present activities of Jesus are included in the meaning of "sotzo." Peter revealed the same thing to Cornelius' house by saying, "all who believe in His name shall receive the release of sins" (Acts 10:43). When the crowd of Jews asked what they must do in Acts 2:37, Peter said, "Repent and be baptized each one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the releasing of sins and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." Being saved includes your sins being released, your body being healed, and the gift of the Holy Spirit being made available. Father has made salvation so easy to obtain. There is nothing complicated about being born of the Spirit; all one must do is call and God will answer. It is just as easy to be healed and forgiven as it is to be saved; all one must do is ask in faith.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Acts 16:31 - "And they said, 'Believe upon the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved and your house.' "
The Greek word "sotzo" is translated "saved." It is used to express our rescue from sin and death in the New Testament. The redemption that is in Christ Jesus has brought "sotzo" to our spirit, soul, and body. This word not only refers to being delivered from the sinful nature but also preserved and protected against future assaults by Satan. It is a word that is used to describe healing of the body from sickness and disease as much as deliverance of the spirit and soul from sin and death (Mark 5:23; 10:52; Luke 8:36,48,50; James 5:15; Galatians 2:20).
Although the word appears 364 times in the Old Testament, it is first observed in the New Testament in Matthew 1:21, "And she shall bring forth a son, and you shall call his name JESUS: for He shall save His people from their sins." The Lord Jesus has not only promised to save us by simply asking Him to do so, He has also promised to protect and keep us (Jude 24; 1 Peter 1:5; John 10:28; 17:11, 12, 15; Romans 8:38-39; Philippians 1:6).
You may truly rest safely when Christ Jesus has saved you; for He is the good shepherd who has laid down His life for His sheep. He is the one who will keep that which we have committed unto Him (2 Timothy 1:12; Hebrews 12:2; Romans 15:13; Ephesians 1:13; Philippians 3:21; Hebrews 2:18; 7:25) . He is still the good shepherd today who is watching over His sheep to protect and defend them against every evil thing. He is the one who will never leave you nor forsake you. He will always uphold you and will perfect everything that concerns you.
It is Jesus who forever lives to make intercession for us as the one who authored and finished our salvation. All of these past and present activities of Jesus are included in the meaning of "sotzo." Peter revealed the same thing to Cornelius' house by saying, "all who believe in His name shall receive the release of sins" (Acts 10:43). When the crowd of Jews asked what they must do in Acts 2:37, Peter said, "Repent and be baptized each one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the releasing of sins and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." Being saved includes your sins being released, your body being healed, and the gift of the Holy Spirit being made available. Father has made salvation so easy to obtain. There is nothing complicated about being born of the Spirit; all one must do is call and God will answer. It is just as easy to be healed and forgiven as it is to be saved; all one must do is ask in faith.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Saturday, February 17, 2007
Daily Bread - FEB/17/07
Acts 7:9-10 - "And the patriarchs being jealous gave Joseph over to Egypt but God was with him. And He delivered him from all his tribulation and gave him grace and wisdom before Pharaoh the king of Egypt and appointed him leader over Egypt and his whole household."
Steven was comparing Jesus to Joseph in his address to the Sanhedrin. He draws out the comparison of how Joseph was rejected by his brethren even as Jesus was rejected by them. Just as Joseph was ultimately exalted to the highest position in the land, Jesus also was exalted above all things.
At times, we too may suffer wrongfully, but we may have the same assurance that our God will deliver us out of all our tribulations. The Greek word "thlipis" (tribulation) refers to distress that is brought about by outward circumstances (trouble). However, God will always come to our aid (parakaleo) in all our trouble, 2 Corinthians 1:4.
And just as the trouble that came to Joseph brought about the act of God's deliverance and promotion, the same promise is extended to us today in 2 Corinthians 4:17, "For our light trouble which is but for a moment is working for us a far more exceeding eternal load of glory." To many of the Sanhedrin, it appeared that the life of Jesus had ended in total defeat and abandonment. However, Steven knew that what looked like defeat resulted in Christ Jesus being exalted to the right hand of the Father.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Acts 7:9-10 - "And the patriarchs being jealous gave Joseph over to Egypt but God was with him. And He delivered him from all his tribulation and gave him grace and wisdom before Pharaoh the king of Egypt and appointed him leader over Egypt and his whole household."
Steven was comparing Jesus to Joseph in his address to the Sanhedrin. He draws out the comparison of how Joseph was rejected by his brethren even as Jesus was rejected by them. Just as Joseph was ultimately exalted to the highest position in the land, Jesus also was exalted above all things.
At times, we too may suffer wrongfully, but we may have the same assurance that our God will deliver us out of all our tribulations. The Greek word "thlipis" (tribulation) refers to distress that is brought about by outward circumstances (trouble). However, God will always come to our aid (parakaleo) in all our trouble, 2 Corinthians 1:4.
And just as the trouble that came to Joseph brought about the act of God's deliverance and promotion, the same promise is extended to us today in 2 Corinthians 4:17, "For our light trouble which is but for a moment is working for us a far more exceeding eternal load of glory." To many of the Sanhedrin, it appeared that the life of Jesus had ended in total defeat and abandonment. However, Steven knew that what looked like defeat resulted in Christ Jesus being exalted to the right hand of the Father.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Friday, February 16, 2007
Daily Bread - FEB/16/07
Acts 8:39 - "And when they came up from the water the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away and the Eunuch saw him no more so he went on his way rejoicing."
The book of Acts records a constant display of the extraordinary power of God in the church and the life of the believers. In this event in the ministry of Philip, the word "harpazo" is used which may be translated "seize, catch away, or snatch away." This is the same word used in 1 Thessalonians 4:17 which speaks of the time when the Lord Jesus returns to meet His saints in the air, "Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught away together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air."
These events in the life of Philip communicate to us how that the ministers of the church lived by the direct influence and direction of the Holy Spirit. The same display of power that was in the life of Jesus when He and His disciples were translated should still be observed in the many different miraculous ways of Jesus' ministry today (John 6:19-21; 14:12).
When God's ministers are so under the control of the Holy Spirit that God translates them from one place to the other, then there can be little question as to the realty of God. The church is supposed to have a reputation for great exploits and the demonstration of the power of God so that the world around us can fear and tremble at the awesome reality of God. It is essential that we as the saints of God return to such holy communion with God that we live more in the heavenly than in the earthly (Colossians 3:1-4; Ephesians 2:6; 3:10; Hebrews 11: 16; 6:4).
The great exploits and power of God were demonstrated in many different ways in the lives of those in the Old Testament as well. Among other things Enoch, Elijah, and Ezekiel are examples of those who were translated by the Spirit of God (Hebrews 11:5; 2 Kings 2:11; Ezekiel 3:14). Evidently, it was somewhat common for Elijah to be translated by the Spirit to different locations, and the nations around him trembled at the awesome power of His God that was displayed in His life (2 Kings 2:16; 1 Kings 18:12).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Acts 8:39 - "And when they came up from the water the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away and the Eunuch saw him no more so he went on his way rejoicing."
The book of Acts records a constant display of the extraordinary power of God in the church and the life of the believers. In this event in the ministry of Philip, the word "harpazo" is used which may be translated "seize, catch away, or snatch away." This is the same word used in 1 Thessalonians 4:17 which speaks of the time when the Lord Jesus returns to meet His saints in the air, "Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught away together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air."
These events in the life of Philip communicate to us how that the ministers of the church lived by the direct influence and direction of the Holy Spirit. The same display of power that was in the life of Jesus when He and His disciples were translated should still be observed in the many different miraculous ways of Jesus' ministry today (John 6:19-21; 14:12).
When God's ministers are so under the control of the Holy Spirit that God translates them from one place to the other, then there can be little question as to the realty of God. The church is supposed to have a reputation for great exploits and the demonstration of the power of God so that the world around us can fear and tremble at the awesome reality of God. It is essential that we as the saints of God return to such holy communion with God that we live more in the heavenly than in the earthly (Colossians 3:1-4; Ephesians 2:6; 3:10; Hebrews 11: 16; 6:4).
The great exploits and power of God were demonstrated in many different ways in the lives of those in the Old Testament as well. Among other things Enoch, Elijah, and Ezekiel are examples of those who were translated by the Spirit of God (Hebrews 11:5; 2 Kings 2:11; Ezekiel 3:14). Evidently, it was somewhat common for Elijah to be translated by the Spirit to different locations, and the nations around him trembled at the awesome power of His God that was displayed in His life (2 Kings 2:16; 1 Kings 18:12).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Daily Bread - FEB/15/07
Acts 9:40-42 - "And Peter sent all of them outside, and he knelt down and prayed, and turning to the body he said, 'Tabitha arise,' and she opened her eyes and saw Peter and sat up. And giving her hand lifted her up, and he called the saints and the widows and presented her alive. And it was known throughout all Joppa and many believed upon the Lord."
Peter ministered to Tabitha in a similar way that Jesus ministered to the daughter of Jairus (Mark 5:41, Luke 8:54). Jesus removed everyone from the room except Peter, James, John, and the father and mother of the girl who were in faith for their daughter's recovery.
The miracle power of God that flows from presence of God is shut down by the skepticism and suspicion of men. The reason for extraordinary miracles is so that men may encounter the reality of God. The message of the Gospel is one of power that produces healing for the body and deliverance for the soul. This Gospel of the Kingdom is the one that Jesus preached and the one that He commanded the church to demonstrate.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Acts 9:40-42 - "And Peter sent all of them outside, and he knelt down and prayed, and turning to the body he said, 'Tabitha arise,' and she opened her eyes and saw Peter and sat up. And giving her hand lifted her up, and he called the saints and the widows and presented her alive. And it was known throughout all Joppa and many believed upon the Lord."
Peter ministered to Tabitha in a similar way that Jesus ministered to the daughter of Jairus (Mark 5:41, Luke 8:54). Jesus removed everyone from the room except Peter, James, John, and the father and mother of the girl who were in faith for their daughter's recovery.
The miracle power of God that flows from presence of God is shut down by the skepticism and suspicion of men. The reason for extraordinary miracles is so that men may encounter the reality of God. The message of the Gospel is one of power that produces healing for the body and deliverance for the soul. This Gospel of the Kingdom is the one that Jesus preached and the one that He commanded the church to demonstrate.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Daily Bread - FEB/14/07
Galatians 5:18 - "But if you are Spirit led you are not under the law."
In Galatians 5:4, Paul tells the church at Galatia that those who are justified by the law have lost out on the effect of Christ and His grace. Therefore, having fallen from the life of the Spirit, they have returned to a place where sin has dominion. The power of sin finds its authority over men when they trust in their own human ability. Paul questioned the Galatians regarding the miracle work of salvation by the Spirit and asked them how they could possibly think that human effort and the works of the law could compare to what the Holy Spirit had done for them by faith (Galatians 3:2-5, 21; 5:5).
The flesh that is opposed to the Spirit retains its power under the law, and good men find themselves unable to do what they desire (Galatians 5:5; Romans 7:19; Romans 8:2; Galatians 3:3). By and large, Paul makes the flesh and the law synonymous with one another. As the flesh and the law are associated with the power and dominion of sin, Paul associates the Spirit with the life and righteousness of God that comes by the faith of Jesus (Galatians 2:20; 2:16; 3:21; Ephesians 2:12).
In Paul's commentary on the spiritual condition of those under the law, he says that, "when we were in the flesh, the passions of sin were working in our members through the law" (Romans 7:5). Paul then describes the utter helplessness of the ones under the law to overcome the power of sin (Romans 7:20). Paul makes a similar association in this verse to the one that he made in Romans 7:18-25. Therefore, in conclusion, when one would have expected that Paul would have said, "As many as are Spirit-led are not under the flesh" he says, "As many as are Spirit-led are not under the law."
Even as Paul was attempting to describe the utter weakness of the law in Romans chapter 7, he is also making the same point here in Galatians chapter 5. It was his desire to convince the Galatians that the law was powerless, and there is nothing in the covenant of the law that they needed to keep in order to please God (Romans 8:3; Galatians 4:21-26). It is through the life of God imparted to us by the Spirit of God that we are able to fulfill the righteousness of the law (John 3:6; Galatians 6:15; Romans 8:4-5).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Galatians 5:18 - "But if you are Spirit led you are not under the law."
In Galatians 5:4, Paul tells the church at Galatia that those who are justified by the law have lost out on the effect of Christ and His grace. Therefore, having fallen from the life of the Spirit, they have returned to a place where sin has dominion. The power of sin finds its authority over men when they trust in their own human ability. Paul questioned the Galatians regarding the miracle work of salvation by the Spirit and asked them how they could possibly think that human effort and the works of the law could compare to what the Holy Spirit had done for them by faith (Galatians 3:2-5, 21; 5:5).
The flesh that is opposed to the Spirit retains its power under the law, and good men find themselves unable to do what they desire (Galatians 5:5; Romans 7:19; Romans 8:2; Galatians 3:3). By and large, Paul makes the flesh and the law synonymous with one another. As the flesh and the law are associated with the power and dominion of sin, Paul associates the Spirit with the life and righteousness of God that comes by the faith of Jesus (Galatians 2:20; 2:16; 3:21; Ephesians 2:12).
In Paul's commentary on the spiritual condition of those under the law, he says that, "when we were in the flesh, the passions of sin were working in our members through the law" (Romans 7:5). Paul then describes the utter helplessness of the ones under the law to overcome the power of sin (Romans 7:20). Paul makes a similar association in this verse to the one that he made in Romans 7:18-25. Therefore, in conclusion, when one would have expected that Paul would have said, "As many as are Spirit-led are not under the flesh" he says, "As many as are Spirit-led are not under the law."
Even as Paul was attempting to describe the utter weakness of the law in Romans chapter 7, he is also making the same point here in Galatians chapter 5. It was his desire to convince the Galatians that the law was powerless, and there is nothing in the covenant of the law that they needed to keep in order to please God (Romans 8:3; Galatians 4:21-26). It is through the life of God imparted to us by the Spirit of God that we are able to fulfill the righteousness of the law (John 3:6; Galatians 6:15; Romans 8:4-5).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Daily Bread - FEB/13/07
Galatians 5:19 - "Now the works of the flesh are manifested which are adultery, illicit sex, uncleanness, lasciviousness..."
The list of the 17 works of the flesh can be grouped into four categories:
1- Sensual sins: Adultery, illicit sex, uncleanness, and lasciviousness.
2- Idol worship: Idolatry and magic.
3- Personal relationship sins: Enmity, strife, jealousies, rage, rivalry, dissension, heresies, and envy.
4- Excess: Intoxication and drinking parties.
The realm of the flesh is absolutely opposed to the realm of the Spirit and has no place among the redeemed. They are as opposite to those who have been born of the Spirit as light is from darkness. Paul makes it very clear in his address to the Romans that we are not in the flesh but in the Spirit (Romans 8:9). Do not let anyone deceive you; for those who do these deeds cannot inherit the Kingdom of God and have no part with Christ Jesus - which Paul also made absolutely clear to the churches at Corinth, Ephesus, and Colossia (1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Ephesians 5:5-6; Colossians 3:6).
The works of the flesh refer to the satanic influence described by Paul to the Ephesians, "in which you then walked according to the course of this world, according to the ruler of the authority of the air, the spirit now working in the sons of disobedience among whom we also all conducted ourselves in times past in the lusts of our flesh, doing the things willed of the flesh and of the understandings, and were by nature the children of wrath even as the rest" (Ephesians 2:2-3; Greens Literal Translation).
These works of the flesh are not to be named among God's people who are born of the Spirit (Galatians 5:16, 24-25; Ephesians 5:3; 4:22; 2 Timothy 2:19; Romans 8:1, 14). As the saints of God, we are to absolutely not allow any of these works of the flesh to be manifested in our lives. We are to recognize that these works of darkness are inspired from the satanic realm of the demonic that purposes to overthrow our effectiveness as God's people and ultimately our faith. None of these influences come from the heart of those who have been made a new creation in Christ Jesus; rather, they come from all that is in the realm of the satanic and are to be resisted: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life (1 John 2:15-16; 1 Peter 2:22-23; Matthew 5:8; Ezekiel 36:26; 1 Timothy 1:5; 2 Timothy 2:22; Hebrews 10:22; 1 Corinthians 3:16-17; 2 Corinthians 6:16; 1 Peter 4:1-3; James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:9).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Galatians 5:19 - "Now the works of the flesh are manifested which are adultery, illicit sex, uncleanness, lasciviousness..."
The list of the 17 works of the flesh can be grouped into four categories:
1- Sensual sins: Adultery, illicit sex, uncleanness, and lasciviousness.
2- Idol worship: Idolatry and magic.
3- Personal relationship sins: Enmity, strife, jealousies, rage, rivalry, dissension, heresies, and envy.
4- Excess: Intoxication and drinking parties.
The realm of the flesh is absolutely opposed to the realm of the Spirit and has no place among the redeemed. They are as opposite to those who have been born of the Spirit as light is from darkness. Paul makes it very clear in his address to the Romans that we are not in the flesh but in the Spirit (Romans 8:9). Do not let anyone deceive you; for those who do these deeds cannot inherit the Kingdom of God and have no part with Christ Jesus - which Paul also made absolutely clear to the churches at Corinth, Ephesus, and Colossia (1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Ephesians 5:5-6; Colossians 3:6).
The works of the flesh refer to the satanic influence described by Paul to the Ephesians, "in which you then walked according to the course of this world, according to the ruler of the authority of the air, the spirit now working in the sons of disobedience among whom we also all conducted ourselves in times past in the lusts of our flesh, doing the things willed of the flesh and of the understandings, and were by nature the children of wrath even as the rest" (Ephesians 2:2-3; Greens Literal Translation).
These works of the flesh are not to be named among God's people who are born of the Spirit (Galatians 5:16, 24-25; Ephesians 5:3; 4:22; 2 Timothy 2:19; Romans 8:1, 14). As the saints of God, we are to absolutely not allow any of these works of the flesh to be manifested in our lives. We are to recognize that these works of darkness are inspired from the satanic realm of the demonic that purposes to overthrow our effectiveness as God's people and ultimately our faith. None of these influences come from the heart of those who have been made a new creation in Christ Jesus; rather, they come from all that is in the realm of the satanic and are to be resisted: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life (1 John 2:15-16; 1 Peter 2:22-23; Matthew 5:8; Ezekiel 36:26; 1 Timothy 1:5; 2 Timothy 2:22; Hebrews 10:22; 1 Corinthians 3:16-17; 2 Corinthians 6:16; 1 Peter 4:1-3; James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:9).
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Monday, February 12, 2007
Daily Bread - FEB/12/07
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.
The blood of Jesus is the means by which the sins of everyone who believes are removed (Matthew 26:28; Acts 20:28; Romans 3:25; 5:9; Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:14, 20; Hebrews 2:14; 9:12, 14; 13:12; 1 Peter 1:18-19; 1 John 1:7). His blood represents His life and ours and is the means by which all past sins have been erased (Galatians 2:20; Romans 6:6; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15).
In the Old Testament, we discover that the blood purges (Leviticus 17:4), cleanses (Leviticus 14:1-9, 14), and sanctifies (Exodus 19:20-21). These types in the Old Testament revealed what Christ Jesus would do for all mankind when He offered up His own soul as the Lamb of God for everyman.
Most scholars agree that the sprinkling of the blood on the altar and the ascending smoke of the sacrifice symbolize union of the one making the offering with Yahweh. However, in the New Testament this union has been made perfectly clear. We have been so united with Christ Jesus that we no longer live but Christ who lives within us (Philippians 1:21; 2 Corinthians 5:15; Romans 14:8; John 17:22; 6:56; Romans 8:17, 29; Galatians 3:29; 4:7; Titus 3:7).
Jesus came and fulfilled all of the Old Testament sacrifices and offerings being the one which all of these were only types (Hebrews 1:3; Acts 20:28; 1 Corinthians 6:11; Hebrews 9:9, 14; 1 Peter 1:2, 19; 1 John 1:7; John 1:29; 1 John 3:5; Hebrews 10:1; Hebrews 2:11; Hebrews 13:12; Ephesians 1:7; Romans 3:25; Romans 5:9). Jesus loosed us from our sins so that we could be brought into the family of God and through union with Him made priests and kings.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
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.
The blood of Jesus is the means by which the sins of everyone who believes are removed (Matthew 26:28; Acts 20:28; Romans 3:25; 5:9; Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:14, 20; Hebrews 2:14; 9:12, 14; 13:12; 1 Peter 1:18-19; 1 John 1:7). His blood represents His life and ours and is the means by which all past sins have been erased (Galatians 2:20; Romans 6:6; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15).
In the Old Testament, we discover that the blood purges (Leviticus 17:4), cleanses (Leviticus 14:1-9, 14), and sanctifies (Exodus 19:20-21). These types in the Old Testament revealed what Christ Jesus would do for all mankind when He offered up His own soul as the Lamb of God for everyman.
Most scholars agree that the sprinkling of the blood on the altar and the ascending smoke of the sacrifice symbolize union of the one making the offering with Yahweh. However, in the New Testament this union has been made perfectly clear. We have been so united with Christ Jesus that we no longer live but Christ who lives within us (Philippians 1:21; 2 Corinthians 5:15; Romans 14:8; John 17:22; 6:56; Romans 8:17, 29; Galatians 3:29; 4:7; Titus 3:7).
Jesus came and fulfilled all of the Old Testament sacrifices and offerings being the one which all of these were only types (Hebrews 1:3; Acts 20:28; 1 Corinthians 6:11; Hebrews 9:9, 14; 1 Peter 1:2, 19; 1 John 1:7; John 1:29; 1 John 3:5; Hebrews 10:1; Hebrews 2:11; Hebrews 13:12; Ephesians 1:7; Romans 3:25; Romans 5:9). Jesus loosed us from our sins so that we could be brought into the family of God and through union with Him made priests and kings.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Saturday, February 10, 2007
Daily Bread - FEB/10/07
Revelation 1:12 - And I turned to see the voice which spoke with me, and having turned I saw seven golden menorahs.
When John turned to see Jesus, he first encountered His church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all things and His representative on the earth. God instructed Moses to make a seven-branched Menorah (Gr-luchnia) which was to be placed in the Tabernacle (Exodus 25:31-37).
The Tabernacle on earth was a figure and representation of the heavenly one which John saw in this vision. A new dimension of meaning was given to the lamps by this revelation. We discover that the churches are symbolized by the menorah. The church is the light of the world as Jesus said "a city set upon a hill that cannot be hid" (Matthew 5:14-16).
The prophet Zachariah saw a similar vision in Zachariah 4:2: the seven-branched Menorah was associated with the fullness of the Spirit of God and with the eyes of Yahoah (Zachariah 4:6, 10). A similar revelation is also drawn out here in the book of Revelation where we observe the seven Spirits indirectly associated with the menorah. The difference is that the church is now revealed, and the seven Spirits are associated directly with the seven churches rather than the menorah.
When we consider the seven Spirits of God, we may either understand it as the fullness of God's Spirit or more specifically as seven attributes of the Spirit. The prophet Isaiah revealed that the Messiah would come in the fullness of the Spirit of God and listed these seven attributes of the Spirit: 1-The Spirit of Yahweh; 2- The spirit of wisdom; 3- The spirit of understanding; 4- The spirit of counsel; 5- The spirit of might; 6- The spirit of knowledge; 7- The spirit of the fear of Yahweh.
God placed the fullness of His Spirit and power in the church insomuch that He refers to the church as the fullness of Him that fills all things (Ephesians 1:23; 1 Corinthians 12:28). It is through the church that God communicates His will and makes Himself known revealing Jesus by His Spirit (John 16:13-15; Colossians 1:18, 24; 1 Corinthians 12:12-27).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Revelation 1:12 - And I turned to see the voice which spoke with me, and having turned I saw seven golden menorahs.
When John turned to see Jesus, he first encountered His church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all things and His representative on the earth. God instructed Moses to make a seven-branched Menorah (Gr-luchnia) which was to be placed in the Tabernacle (Exodus 25:31-37).
The Tabernacle on earth was a figure and representation of the heavenly one which John saw in this vision. A new dimension of meaning was given to the lamps by this revelation. We discover that the churches are symbolized by the menorah. The church is the light of the world as Jesus said "a city set upon a hill that cannot be hid" (Matthew 5:14-16).
The prophet Zachariah saw a similar vision in Zachariah 4:2: the seven-branched Menorah was associated with the fullness of the Spirit of God and with the eyes of Yahoah (Zachariah 4:6, 10). A similar revelation is also drawn out here in the book of Revelation where we observe the seven Spirits indirectly associated with the menorah. The difference is that the church is now revealed, and the seven Spirits are associated directly with the seven churches rather than the menorah.
When we consider the seven Spirits of God, we may either understand it as the fullness of God's Spirit or more specifically as seven attributes of the Spirit. The prophet Isaiah revealed that the Messiah would come in the fullness of the Spirit of God and listed these seven attributes of the Spirit: 1-The Spirit of Yahweh; 2- The spirit of wisdom; 3- The spirit of understanding; 4- The spirit of counsel; 5- The spirit of might; 6- The spirit of knowledge; 7- The spirit of the fear of Yahweh.
God placed the fullness of His Spirit and power in the church insomuch that He refers to the church as the fullness of Him that fills all things (Ephesians 1:23; 1 Corinthians 12:28). It is through the church that God communicates His will and makes Himself known revealing Jesus by His Spirit (John 16:13-15; Colossians 1:18, 24; 1 Corinthians 12:12-27).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - FEB/09/07
Revelation 1:7 - Behold He comes with clouds and every eye shall see Him and they which pierced Him. Yes, and all the tribes of the earth shall wail on account of Him amen.
When God came to rescue Israel out of the land of Egypt, He appeared in a cloud, Gr-nephele, (Exodus 13:21-22). When Yahweh God came to speak with Israel so that all of the people could hear His voice, He came in a cloud (Exodus 19:9). When Yahweh God called Moses to come up into the mountain to meet with Him, Moses went up into a cloud (Exodus 24:15-18).
The event that most clearly captivates the fact that the person Yahweh God was actually in the midst of this cloud is found in Exodus 14. When the cloud of God stood between Israel and Egypt to prevent the Egyptians from overtaking the Israelites, Yahweh God looked out of the cloud at the host of the Egyptians.
Evidently, the Egyptians were able to see Yahweh when He poked His head out of the cloud; for the scripture says He caused a destructive panic among the army of the Egyptians (Exodus 14:24). The cloud of God was seen in Israel after Solomon had finished building the temple. His presence so overwhelmed the people that the priest could not perform their priestly duties (2 Chronicles 5:14).
The last time that the glory cloud of God was seen in the Old Testament times was when Jerusalem was overthrown by Babylon (Ezekiel 10:4). When the prophet Daniel prophesied of the last days and the coming of the Messiah, he pictured the Son of man coming with the clouds to the Ancient of Days (Daniel 7:13). The cloud of God was not seen again until Jesus went up into the mountain to pray with Peter, James, and John.
The glory cloud overshadowed them, and Yahweh God spoke out of the midst of the excellent glory and said, "This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased" (Mark 9:7; Luke 9:34-35; 2 Peter 1:17). The cloud of God is associated with the return of the Lord Jesus at the time of the first resurrection and the catching away of the church and also at His second coming (Acts 1:9-11; 1 Thessalonians 4:17; Matthew 24:30; 26:40; Mark 13:26;14:26; Luke 21:27).
Be ready,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Revelation 1:7 - Behold He comes with clouds and every eye shall see Him and they which pierced Him. Yes, and all the tribes of the earth shall wail on account of Him amen.
When God came to rescue Israel out of the land of Egypt, He appeared in a cloud, Gr-nephele, (Exodus 13:21-22). When Yahweh God came to speak with Israel so that all of the people could hear His voice, He came in a cloud (Exodus 19:9). When Yahweh God called Moses to come up into the mountain to meet with Him, Moses went up into a cloud (Exodus 24:15-18).
The event that most clearly captivates the fact that the person Yahweh God was actually in the midst of this cloud is found in Exodus 14. When the cloud of God stood between Israel and Egypt to prevent the Egyptians from overtaking the Israelites, Yahweh God looked out of the cloud at the host of the Egyptians.
Evidently, the Egyptians were able to see Yahweh when He poked His head out of the cloud; for the scripture says He caused a destructive panic among the army of the Egyptians (Exodus 14:24). The cloud of God was seen in Israel after Solomon had finished building the temple. His presence so overwhelmed the people that the priest could not perform their priestly duties (2 Chronicles 5:14).
The last time that the glory cloud of God was seen in the Old Testament times was when Jerusalem was overthrown by Babylon (Ezekiel 10:4). When the prophet Daniel prophesied of the last days and the coming of the Messiah, he pictured the Son of man coming with the clouds to the Ancient of Days (Daniel 7:13). The cloud of God was not seen again until Jesus went up into the mountain to pray with Peter, James, and John.
The glory cloud overshadowed them, and Yahweh God spoke out of the midst of the excellent glory and said, "This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased" (Mark 9:7; Luke 9:34-35; 2 Peter 1:17). The cloud of God is associated with the return of the Lord Jesus at the time of the first resurrection and the catching away of the church and also at His second coming (Acts 1:9-11; 1 Thessalonians 4:17; Matthew 24:30; 26:40; Mark 13:26;14:26; Luke 21:27).
Be ready,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
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