One of the greatest acts of deliverance recorded in the Bible is Israel's exodus from Egypt. There are several estimations of how many people left in the exodus. We are not given any exact number until the first census of Israel was taken "...on the first day of the second month, in the second year after they had come out of the land of Egypt." (Numbers 1:1) However, this census was limited to, "...all the congregation of the children of Israel, by their families, by their fathers' houses, according to the number of names, every male individually, from twenty years old and above, all who are able to go to war in Israel. You and Aaron shall number them by their armies." (Numbers 1:2-3) This total came to "All who were numbered were six hundred and three thousand five hundred and fifty."(Numbers 1:46) Keep in mind that the census was taken fourteen months after the exodus and was limited to men "twenty years old and above, all who are able to go to war." Notice that the men chosen were all who were able to go to war. Some have suggested that there were some men unfit for war due to some sort of aliment. This is a wrong assumption. "He (God) also brought them out with silver and gold, and there was none feeble among His tribes." (Psalms 105:37) This tells us there was not one person who lacked in physical or mental strength. They were not frail or weak in any way.
Many have used formulas to calculate the total number of people that God delivered from the bondage of Egypt but we do not know the exact number. Based on most researchers the average number comes to approximately two million people. Although God Himself was leading Israel, He chose Moses and set him over this multitude of people to lead them on a journey to the "Promised Land." During Israel's journey through the wilderness there were faced with various trails. Although they witnessed their miraculous deliverance and Gods provision in the wilderness unbelief ran rampant among the people, even the great man Moses had his doubts. One of these happened at the Red Sea.
Israel had come to the Red Sea with impassable mountains on their left and right and the army of Pharaoh behind them. It seemed as though there was no place to go, there was no escape.In the natural it looked quite disastrous, but what God spoke to Moses is a key to living a victorious life. "And Moses said to the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace." Exodus 14:13-14) At first glance it appears that Moses is trying to calm the people by
assuring them that God would save them, but look what God says to Moses.
"And the Lord said to Moses, "Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward. But lift up your rod, and stretch out your hand over the sea and divide it. And the children of Israel shall go on dry ground through the midst of the sea." (Exodus 14:15-16) God is actually rebuking Moses for unbelief. Look carefully at these verse again and note that which is highlighted. The Bible record numerous times that God used Moses' rod to perform miracles, and still Moses was unsure.God did not say to Moses, stretch forth your hand and I will divide the sea. No, God said, "stretch out your hand over the sea and divide it." God was calling Moses to exercise his faith.
Jesus' disciples were faced with a similar situation. "Now it happened, on a certain day, that He got into a boat with His disciples. And He said to them, "Let us cross over to the other side of the lake." And they launched out. But as they sailed He fell asleep. And a windstorm came down on the lake, and they were filling with water, and were in jeopardy. And they came to Him and awoke Him, saying, "Master, Master, we are perishing!" Then He arose and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water. And they ceased, and there was a calm. But He said to them, "Where is your faith?" (Luke 8:22-25).
In both situation the same thing happened. God expected Moses and the disciples of Jesus to exercise their faith, but their unbelief put the responsibility of the situation on God (Jesus). This happens to many in the church today. God has given the church His Word, His promises, the Name of Jesus, authority and the Holy Spirit, yet, when a tough situation appears, many believers cry out to God to do something, when in fact, He has given the church these five wonderful gifts to use against any of life's circumstances. This has nothing to do with petitioning God in prayer. All believers are to constantly pray. It simply means that believers are to step up as children of God and uphold and enforce what God has already given to the church. For instance, Jesus said, "And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover." (Mark 16:17-18)
Based on what Jesus said, believers do not have to ask God to cast out a demon for us or to heal the sick for us. We simply follow the Lords command and do these things in the Name of Jesus. In the Name of Jesus, demon come out. In the Name of Jesus, be healed. This is the place where Moses and the disciples failed as seen in the previously two passages above. It is also the place where most believers fail. Instead of believing and acting on God's Word, many let unbelief have the ascendancy in their life and then wonder why things do not seem to happen they way they had hoped. Jesus tells us, "Have faith in God. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them." (Mark 11:22-24)
Now your faith may not be at the level to believe God in this way, but as you feed on God's Word your faith will grow. "So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." (Romans 10:17) So don't be discouraged, don't quit and don't speak a negative confessions. Know that your faith can grow and you will be used of God to do what seems to be impossible. "Jesus said, "If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes." (Mark 9:23)
Monday, May 19, 2014
Monday, May 12, 2014
Let God Arise
King David was what could be called a waring king. He, like everyone else was not free from the struggles of life. However, one thing he did know that many believers fail to take advantage of, he knew where to turn to be strengthened and encouraged. He knew the source for overcoming the struggles of life. "I will love You, O Lord my strength. The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I will call upon the Lord who is worthy to be praised; so shall I be saved from my enemies." (Psalms 18:1-3) No matter what David faced, he knew that the Lord was always with him and would never leave him to fend for himself. Many of the Psalms that David wrote reflected his struggles, yet he still knew where his source of life came from.
On one occasion, at a young age, David face what we might consider a mountain in his life. This mountain had a name, Goliath. Goliath was a champion warrior of the Philistines who was of great stature. The Bible shows us that he was almost ten feet tall. He wore a helmet and his body armor weighed one hundred twenty five pounds. He also carried a spear with a iron spearhead that weighed fifteen pounds. The sight of Goliath and the threats that he made were enough to cause the army of Israel under King Saul to become dismayed and greatly afraid. David's father Jesse called for David to take some provisions to his others son's who were with the army. David met with his brothers, saw Goliath and took courage in the Lord. He was not about to sit by and allow Goliath bring reproach upon God's people. With five smooth stones in his shepherds bag and a sling he faced Goliath.
David was not facing Goliath alone, no, the Lord was with him. "Then David said to the Philistine, "You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you and take your head from you. And this day I will give the carcasses of the camp of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. Then all this assembly shall know that the Lord does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the Lord's, and He will give you into our hands." (1 Samuel 17:45-47)
Every believer one time or another will face a situation that looks like a Goliath. The key to overcoming the Goliath is not to let worry, anxiety or fear have place because they compound the situation. Jesus tells us, "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." (Matthew 6:34) We are not to worry because "...our heavenly Father knows that we have need..." (Matthew 6:32) The Apostle Paul tells us, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7) Paul also tells us, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7)
Although David lived one thousand years before Christ appeared on earth and was under the Mosaic Law, he still exercised faith in God for everything. The conclusion of David's encounter with Goliath shows us that David did not wait for the battle to come to him but, "when the Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, that David hurried and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine. Then David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone; and he slung it and struck the Philistine in his forehead, so that the stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the earth. So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone, and struck the Philistine and killed him. But there was no sword in the hand of David. Therefore David ran and stood over the Philistine, took his sword and drew it out of its sheath and killed him, and cut off his head with it." (1 Samuel 17:48-51)
Faith in God's ability is what put David over. The writer of Hebrews records, "But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." (Hebrews 11:6) Without unwavering confidence in God, His Word, His wisdom, His ability and His promises it is impossible to please Him. The other way that we can say this is, God is not pleased with the person who has no confidence in Him; who doubts His Word, His ability and promises or does not believe that his ways are right. Solomon tells us to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." ( Proverbs 3:5-6) The Apostle Peter says it this way, "Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully." (1 Peter 5:7 AMP)
For many, faith seems to be somewhat obscure, unattainable and or limited to only a few believers. However, faith is quite simple. Also know that God has given it to every believer, "...God has dealt to each one a measure of faith." (Romans 12:3) That problem that most believers seem to experience, is they do not constantly feed on God's Word so their faith can grow. "So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Romans 10:17) For most, we feed our body multiple times each day for strength and nourishment but our recreated spirit is neglected because most believers do not feed on God's Word. This is one reason why so many believers have weak faith. Another problem is believers having a double confession. One confession is upon the absolute truth of God's Word and then when things do not immediately change, the confession turns the opposite way, refuting God's Word.
I want to encourage you that as we have seen, every believer has been given faith from God. Do not let discouragement try to over take you in the midst of what seems to be an insurmountable circumstance, instead, "...hold fast the confession of our faith without wavering, for He who promised is faithful." (Hebrews 10:23) PTL
On one occasion, at a young age, David face what we might consider a mountain in his life. This mountain had a name, Goliath. Goliath was a champion warrior of the Philistines who was of great stature. The Bible shows us that he was almost ten feet tall. He wore a helmet and his body armor weighed one hundred twenty five pounds. He also carried a spear with a iron spearhead that weighed fifteen pounds. The sight of Goliath and the threats that he made were enough to cause the army of Israel under King Saul to become dismayed and greatly afraid. David's father Jesse called for David to take some provisions to his others son's who were with the army. David met with his brothers, saw Goliath and took courage in the Lord. He was not about to sit by and allow Goliath bring reproach upon God's people. With five smooth stones in his shepherds bag and a sling he faced Goliath.
David was not facing Goliath alone, no, the Lord was with him. "Then David said to the Philistine, "You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you and take your head from you. And this day I will give the carcasses of the camp of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. Then all this assembly shall know that the Lord does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the Lord's, and He will give you into our hands." (1 Samuel 17:45-47)
Every believer one time or another will face a situation that looks like a Goliath. The key to overcoming the Goliath is not to let worry, anxiety or fear have place because they compound the situation. Jesus tells us, "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." (Matthew 6:34) We are not to worry because "...our heavenly Father knows that we have need..." (Matthew 6:32) The Apostle Paul tells us, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7) Paul also tells us, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7)
Although David lived one thousand years before Christ appeared on earth and was under the Mosaic Law, he still exercised faith in God for everything. The conclusion of David's encounter with Goliath shows us that David did not wait for the battle to come to him but, "when the Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, that David hurried and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine. Then David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone; and he slung it and struck the Philistine in his forehead, so that the stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the earth. So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone, and struck the Philistine and killed him. But there was no sword in the hand of David. Therefore David ran and stood over the Philistine, took his sword and drew it out of its sheath and killed him, and cut off his head with it." (1 Samuel 17:48-51)
Faith in God's ability is what put David over. The writer of Hebrews records, "But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." (Hebrews 11:6) Without unwavering confidence in God, His Word, His wisdom, His ability and His promises it is impossible to please Him. The other way that we can say this is, God is not pleased with the person who has no confidence in Him; who doubts His Word, His ability and promises or does not believe that his ways are right. Solomon tells us to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." ( Proverbs 3:5-6) The Apostle Peter says it this way, "Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully." (1 Peter 5:7 AMP)
For many, faith seems to be somewhat obscure, unattainable and or limited to only a few believers. However, faith is quite simple. Also know that God has given it to every believer, "...God has dealt to each one a measure of faith." (Romans 12:3) That problem that most believers seem to experience, is they do not constantly feed on God's Word so their faith can grow. "So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Romans 10:17) For most, we feed our body multiple times each day for strength and nourishment but our recreated spirit is neglected because most believers do not feed on God's Word. This is one reason why so many believers have weak faith. Another problem is believers having a double confession. One confession is upon the absolute truth of God's Word and then when things do not immediately change, the confession turns the opposite way, refuting God's Word.
I want to encourage you that as we have seen, every believer has been given faith from God. Do not let discouragement try to over take you in the midst of what seems to be an insurmountable circumstance, instead, "...hold fast the confession of our faith without wavering, for He who promised is faithful." (Hebrews 10:23) PTL
Monday, May 5, 2014
Do You Want Some Figs?
"Now the next day, when they had come out from Bethany, Jesus was hungry. And seeing from afar a fig tree having leaves, He went to see if perhaps He would find something on it. When He came to it, He found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. In response Jesus said to it, "Let no one eat fruit from you ever again. And His disciples heard it." (Mark 11:12-14)
Further into this situation as recorded in Mark 11:21, Peter says, "...Rabbi, look! The fig tree which You cursed has withered away." The word "cursed," here does not imply that Jesus was angry or disappointment or that He spoke with malice. It means, devoting to destruction; causing to wither away. It has been commonly thought that Jesus spoke these words in reference to the destruction or the sudden withering away of the Jewish people. To the eye the fig tree full of leaves looked good. In a similar way, the Jews, especially the religious leaders, looked good on the outside but, as Jesus said, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness. Even so you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.." (Matthew 23:27-28)
Both the fig tree and the Jews were equally barren and as the fig tree was destroyed or withered, so would the Jewish people be. Although this is a good illustration of the destruction of the Jewish people, and Jerusalem did fall in 70 AD, there is no evidence that Jesus intended it to be so. Without scriptural evidence of meaning such, it becomes just a good illustration.
As we continue looking at this incident we see the heart of the matter, "Now in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots. And Peter, remembering, said to Him, "Rabbi, look! The fig tree which You cursed has withered away. So Jesus answered and said to them, "Have faith in God. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them." (Mark 11:20-24) The lesson that we should take away from this is not only a lesson on faith, but also the power of our words.
The words that we speak have greater affect than what we believe. Many times we have neutralized our faith due to our words. "You are snared by the words of your mouth; You are taken by the words of your mouth." (Proverbs 6:2) When we look closely at the ministry of Jesus we will discover why He had such great faith. It's because He only spoke that which He heard the Father say. "For I have not spoken on My own authority; but the Father who sent Me gave Me a command, what I should say and what I should speak. And I know that His command is everlasting life. Therefore, whatever I speak, just as the Father has told Me, so I speak." (John 12:49-50)
Jesus only spoke the Father's Words. When He did, it caused faith to well up and be released. "So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." ( Romans 10:17) Notice that this says, "faith comes by hearing" not reading the Word of God quietly. God told Joshua, "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success." (Joshua 1:8-9) Notice the specifics of God's Word to Joshua, "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night." In other words, "Keep saying my Word and as you hear, meditate on it. This also was to be a continuous event, "day and night."
Although Jesus tells us, "...the words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life" (John 6:63) does not means that people believe or understand what He is saying. What we need to be certain of is, it is impossible to get faith from God's Word if we do not have faith in God's Word. As Paul tells us, faith comes by hearing God's Word. As we audibly speak God's Word, it is absorbed by our recreated spirit and in turn renews our mind. Notice what Jesus tells us in Mark 11:23. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. The words "say" or "says" appears three time and the word believe only once. This again points out the importance of our words.
Some people worry continually which causes them to think wrong things which in turn cause them to speak wrong things. They constantly think and talk doubt and unbelief. You will never build up your faith doing this. The more you talk about the problems, the bigger the problem seems to be. The Apostle Paul tells us, "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy, meditate on these things." (Philippians 4:8-9) So if things are not true, noble, just, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous or praiseworthy, then you shouldn't be thinking about it, because sooner or later the wrong things will come forth from your mouth. Instead, let us take seriously the words that Solomon spoke, "My son, give attention to my words; Incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your eyes; keep them in the midst of your heart; For they are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh." (Proverbs 4:20-22)
Further into this situation as recorded in Mark 11:21, Peter says, "...Rabbi, look! The fig tree which You cursed has withered away." The word "cursed," here does not imply that Jesus was angry or disappointment or that He spoke with malice. It means, devoting to destruction; causing to wither away. It has been commonly thought that Jesus spoke these words in reference to the destruction or the sudden withering away of the Jewish people. To the eye the fig tree full of leaves looked good. In a similar way, the Jews, especially the religious leaders, looked good on the outside but, as Jesus said, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness. Even so you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.." (Matthew 23:27-28)
Both the fig tree and the Jews were equally barren and as the fig tree was destroyed or withered, so would the Jewish people be. Although this is a good illustration of the destruction of the Jewish people, and Jerusalem did fall in 70 AD, there is no evidence that Jesus intended it to be so. Without scriptural evidence of meaning such, it becomes just a good illustration.
As we continue looking at this incident we see the heart of the matter, "Now in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots. And Peter, remembering, said to Him, "Rabbi, look! The fig tree which You cursed has withered away. So Jesus answered and said to them, "Have faith in God. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them." (Mark 11:20-24) The lesson that we should take away from this is not only a lesson on faith, but also the power of our words.
The words that we speak have greater affect than what we believe. Many times we have neutralized our faith due to our words. "You are snared by the words of your mouth; You are taken by the words of your mouth." (Proverbs 6:2) When we look closely at the ministry of Jesus we will discover why He had such great faith. It's because He only spoke that which He heard the Father say. "For I have not spoken on My own authority; but the Father who sent Me gave Me a command, what I should say and what I should speak. And I know that His command is everlasting life. Therefore, whatever I speak, just as the Father has told Me, so I speak." (John 12:49-50)
Jesus only spoke the Father's Words. When He did, it caused faith to well up and be released. "So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." ( Romans 10:17) Notice that this says, "faith comes by hearing" not reading the Word of God quietly. God told Joshua, "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success." (Joshua 1:8-9) Notice the specifics of God's Word to Joshua, "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night." In other words, "Keep saying my Word and as you hear, meditate on it. This also was to be a continuous event, "day and night."
Although Jesus tells us, "...the words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life" (John 6:63) does not means that people believe or understand what He is saying. What we need to be certain of is, it is impossible to get faith from God's Word if we do not have faith in God's Word. As Paul tells us, faith comes by hearing God's Word. As we audibly speak God's Word, it is absorbed by our recreated spirit and in turn renews our mind. Notice what Jesus tells us in Mark 11:23. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. The words "say" or "says" appears three time and the word believe only once. This again points out the importance of our words.
Some people worry continually which causes them to think wrong things which in turn cause them to speak wrong things. They constantly think and talk doubt and unbelief. You will never build up your faith doing this. The more you talk about the problems, the bigger the problem seems to be. The Apostle Paul tells us, "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy, meditate on these things." (Philippians 4:8-9) So if things are not true, noble, just, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous or praiseworthy, then you shouldn't be thinking about it, because sooner or later the wrong things will come forth from your mouth. Instead, let us take seriously the words that Solomon spoke, "My son, give attention to my words; Incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your eyes; keep them in the midst of your heart; For they are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh." (Proverbs 4:20-22)
Monday, April 28, 2014
Do You Know Him? Part 7
Now that we have seen the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of Jesus and the believer, in the final part of this series, we will now see the Holy Spirits work in the church, the Body of Christ. When Jesus said, "I will build my church" we need to understand that it was the Holy Spirit who was send by the Father and Son to be the builder. The Holy Spirit is the agent of the Godhead (three persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, yet one God indivisible) who came to earth to build the church through the cooperation of every believer. This is a very important point. Every believer is to cooperate with the Holy Spirit so that Christ can build His church, not churches. We also saw that the out pouring of the Holy Spirit on believers reveals quite a difference between the Old and New Testament saints. The major aspects of the work of the Holy Spirit in the church include...
Before His crucifixion, Jesus gave the disciples instructions concerning what was to come, especially concerning the Holy Spirit who would be sent in His place. (John 14:16-17, 26, 15:26-27, 16:7-15) After His resurrection, He met with His disciples and gave them further instruction which we call "The Great Commission."
"And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen. (Matthew 28:18-20)
"And He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover." ( Mark 16:15-18)
"Then He said to them, "Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And you are witnesses of these things. Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high." (Luke 24:46-49, with Acts 1:4-8)
As we can see, the Holy Spirit was to be the source of the church's success. However, it would require full cooperation on the part of all believers not the apostles only. Many in the church today must let go of fear, doubt and unbelief and permit the Holy Spirit to rule and reign. Every believers must step aside, let simple faith rise up and permit Him to have full access to our lives. As we have seen in this seven part series the many workings of the Holy Spirit in both Old and New testament, I pray that you will honestly trust God's Word and move forward into the wonderful work of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit not only indwells the believer, but He fills and empowers all believes to fulfill the work that Jesus started during His ministry time on earth. The lost world is depending on us, the entire church! Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.
- The Holy Spirit filled the believers on the Day of Pentecost forming and empowering the church (Acts 2:1-4)
- The Holy Spirit is the governing Agent directing the government of the church (Acts 15:28)
- The Holy Spirit formed the church to be the new and living temple of God (1 Corinthians 3:16)
- The Holy Spirit brings gifts and graces to the church (1 Corinthians 12:4-11, Romans 12:6-8)
- The Holy Spirit produces fruits in the church to counteract the works of the flesh (Galatians 5:22-23)
- The Holy Spirit brings anointing and illumination o the church (1 John 2:20, Ephesians 1:17-18)
Before His crucifixion, Jesus gave the disciples instructions concerning what was to come, especially concerning the Holy Spirit who would be sent in His place. (John 14:16-17, 26, 15:26-27, 16:7-15) After His resurrection, He met with His disciples and gave them further instruction which we call "The Great Commission."
"And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen. (Matthew 28:18-20)
"And He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover." ( Mark 16:15-18)
"Then He said to them, "Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And you are witnesses of these things. Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high." (Luke 24:46-49, with Acts 1:4-8)
As we can see, the Holy Spirit was to be the source of the church's success. However, it would require full cooperation on the part of all believers not the apostles only. Many in the church today must let go of fear, doubt and unbelief and permit the Holy Spirit to rule and reign. Every believers must step aside, let simple faith rise up and permit Him to have full access to our lives. As we have seen in this seven part series the many workings of the Holy Spirit in both Old and New testament, I pray that you will honestly trust God's Word and move forward into the wonderful work of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit not only indwells the believer, but He fills and empowers all believes to fulfill the work that Jesus started during His ministry time on earth. The lost world is depending on us, the entire church! Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.
Monday, April 21, 2014
Do You Know Him? Part 6
We saw that on the Day of Pentecost that the Holy Spirit was poured out on all flesh fulfilling what was spoken by the Prophet Joel. (Joel 2:28-29) If we look at the scriptures and contrast the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the life of Jesus with the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer and also the church, we would discover that the ministries are almost identical. As Jesus was the example of the unhindered workings of the Holy Spirit in the early church, He should still be the same today, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever." (Hebrews 13:8) If the Head of the Body has not changed, then neither should the Body or its members. Every believer as a son or daughter of God and member of the church should follow in His steps and submit themselves to the Holy Spirit and His workings.
If Jesus the Son of God depended on the Holy Spirit, how much more should the believer also depend on Him. All that God has for us and desires to do through us will only be done by the workings of the Holy Spirit in and through our lives. Every believer needs to open their heart and permit the Holy Spirit to manifest Himself. When Jesus commissioned the twelve to go out before Him, His instructions to them were based on what He Himself had openly performed before them. Scripture shows us that He sent them out to do the same. "And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease...And as you go, preach, saying, 'The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give." (Matthew 10:1, 7-8)
This had taken place before the death, resurrection and glorification of the Lord so the Holy Spirit had not yet been poured out on all flesh. However, the commission that Jesus had given them was surely the work of the Holy Spirit. Remember, there were many in the Old Testament that were used of God to do remarkable things that were the works of the Holy Spirit. We also see the work of the Holy Spirit on seventy other disciples that Jesus sent out to replicate His ministry. "After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go...And heal the sick there, and say to them,'The kingdom of God has come near to you...Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you." (Luke 10: 1, 9, 19)
Again, this also took place before the death, resurrection and glorification of the Lord, but was certainly the work of the Holy Spirit. The following although not all inclusive are examples of the Holy Spirits work in the life of the believer.
The fact is, looking at the above list of the work of the Holy Spirit in the believer tells us that His mighty works have always been and will continue to manifested through the church until Jesus Christ returns. Unbelief, in many people in the church will not stop His work. Believing in man's doctrines over God's Word will not stop His work. His work will continue as long as Gods people exercise faith, believe and act upon His Word. We must fully believe that Jesus is the Word Who became flesh and that He (the Word) is the same yesterday, today and forever. (Hebrews 13:8) If we can embrace these truths, then God is able to perform what He says, yes, even today through the church, The Body of Christ. PTL
If Jesus the Son of God depended on the Holy Spirit, how much more should the believer also depend on Him. All that God has for us and desires to do through us will only be done by the workings of the Holy Spirit in and through our lives. Every believer needs to open their heart and permit the Holy Spirit to manifest Himself. When Jesus commissioned the twelve to go out before Him, His instructions to them were based on what He Himself had openly performed before them. Scripture shows us that He sent them out to do the same. "And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease...And as you go, preach, saying, 'The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give." (Matthew 10:1, 7-8)
This had taken place before the death, resurrection and glorification of the Lord so the Holy Spirit had not yet been poured out on all flesh. However, the commission that Jesus had given them was surely the work of the Holy Spirit. Remember, there were many in the Old Testament that were used of God to do remarkable things that were the works of the Holy Spirit. We also see the work of the Holy Spirit on seventy other disciples that Jesus sent out to replicate His ministry. "After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go...And heal the sick there, and say to them,'The kingdom of God has come near to you...Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you." (Luke 10: 1, 9, 19)
Again, this also took place before the death, resurrection and glorification of the Lord, but was certainly the work of the Holy Spirit. The following although not all inclusive are examples of the Holy Spirits work in the life of the believer.
- New birth is brought about by the Spirit (John 3:5-6)
- The Spirit enables the believer to worship (John 4:23-24)
- The Spirit imparts life (John 6:63)
- The Spirit teaches the believer and guides them into all truth (John16:13)
- The Spirit empowers the believer to witness (Acts 1:8)
- The Spirit fills the believer with Himself (Acts 2:4)
- Through the infilling of the Spirit, the Spirit enables the believer to speak in unknown languages (Acts 2:4)
- The Spirit speaks to the believer (Acts 8:29)
- The Spirit gives a calling to the believer for service (Acts 13:2-4)
- The Spirit guides the believer into their ministry (Acts 16:6-7)
- The Spirit indwells the believer’s spirit (Romans 8:9)
- The Spirit enables the believer to put fleshly deeds to death (Romans 8:13)
- The Spirit leads the believer (Romans 8:14)
- The Spirit give assurance of salvation (Romans 8:16)
- The Spirit enables the believer to pray (Romans 8:26-28)
- The Spirit opens the believer’s understanding to the things of God (1 Corinthians 2:12)
- The Spirit imparts spiritual gifts to the believer (1 Corinthians 12:7-11)
- The Spirit will bring about the resurrection and immortality to the believer’s body (1 Corinthians 15:47-51)
- The Spirit produce fruit in the believers recreated spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)
- The Spirit strengthens the believers inner being (Ephesians 3:16)
- The Spirit brings about renewal (Titus 3:5).
The fact is, looking at the above list of the work of the Holy Spirit in the believer tells us that His mighty works have always been and will continue to manifested through the church until Jesus Christ returns. Unbelief, in many people in the church will not stop His work. Believing in man's doctrines over God's Word will not stop His work. His work will continue as long as Gods people exercise faith, believe and act upon His Word. We must fully believe that Jesus is the Word Who became flesh and that He (the Word) is the same yesterday, today and forever. (Hebrews 13:8) If we can embrace these truths, then God is able to perform what He says, yes, even today through the church, The Body of Christ. PTL
Monday, April 14, 2014
Do You Know Him? Part 5
Now that we saw the release of the Holy Spirit upon all flesh which began on the Day of Pentecost, it is vitally important to understand that this could only be fulfilled through The Lord Jesus Christ. His death, burial, resurrection, ascension and glorification is the foundation for the releasing and work of the Holy Spirit. So, before we proceed forward with the Holy Spirit working through the lives of the believers in the early church and the believer today, let's look at His work through the Life of the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus sets the example for all believers through His three and one half years of ministry as the Son of Man.
The Angel Gabriel and the Apostle Paul reveal some important things concerning the Incarnation. "Behold, you (The Virgin Mary) will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus...The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God." (Luke 1:31, 35)
"...Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself..." (Philippians 2:5-8) In short, though Jesus was fully God, He was also fully man. For His mission on earth, although He did the work of deity, He chose to "empty Himself" of His deity and work out His mission through His humanity. We see this very thing at the beginning of His ministry.
"Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him...When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him." (Matthew 3:13-16)
In John the Baptist witness concerning Christ, he tells us, "For He (Jesus) whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure." (John 3:34) So, we see clearly that Jesus' ministry would set the example for all who would follow Him. We see Him being filled with the Holy Spirit. It would be this infilling of the Holy Spirit that Jesus would rely upon to fulfill His mission by not doing His will, but the Father's Will. (John 6:38) Although Jesus was filled with the Holy Spirit without measure and the believer is not, we will see the similarities of the Holy Spirit's work in Jesus to that of the believer. The Holy Spirit in the life of Jesus...
For all the readers who have been filled with the Holy Spirit and desire more of Him then act upon the wisdom of God spoken through Solomon, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6) Either way, let us all, "Be imitators of God as dear children." (Ephesians 5:1) The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you always...
The Angel Gabriel and the Apostle Paul reveal some important things concerning the Incarnation. "Behold, you (The Virgin Mary) will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus...The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God." (Luke 1:31, 35)
"...Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself..." (Philippians 2:5-8) In short, though Jesus was fully God, He was also fully man. For His mission on earth, although He did the work of deity, He chose to "empty Himself" of His deity and work out His mission through His humanity. We see this very thing at the beginning of His ministry.
"Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him...When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him." (Matthew 3:13-16)
In John the Baptist witness concerning Christ, he tells us, "For He (Jesus) whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure." (John 3:34) So, we see clearly that Jesus' ministry would set the example for all who would follow Him. We see Him being filled with the Holy Spirit. It would be this infilling of the Holy Spirit that Jesus would rely upon to fulfill His mission by not doing His will, but the Father's Will. (John 6:38) Although Jesus was filled with the Holy Spirit without measure and the believer is not, we will see the similarities of the Holy Spirit's work in Jesus to that of the believer. The Holy Spirit in the life of Jesus...
- He was led by the Spirit (Matthew 4:1)
- He cast out demons by the Spirit (Matthew 12:28)
- He was born of the Spirit (Luke 1:35)
- He was empowered by the Spirit (Luke 4:14)
- He was anointed by the Spirit (Luke 4:18)
- He spoke and taught by the Spirit (Luke 4:18)
- He healed the sick by the Spirit (Luke 4:18)
- He was filled with the fullness of the Spirit (John 3:34)
- He gave commandments to the disciples by the Spirit (Acts 1:2)
- He was baptized and empowered the church by the Spirit (Acts 1:5-8)
- He was resurrected by the Spirit (Romans 8:11)
- He was justified by the Spirit (1 Timothy 3:16)
- He was offered up on Calvary by the Spirit (Hebrews 9:14)
- He governs and directs the church by the Spirit (Revelation 2:7-11)
For all the readers who have been filled with the Holy Spirit and desire more of Him then act upon the wisdom of God spoken through Solomon, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6) Either way, let us all, "Be imitators of God as dear children." (Ephesians 5:1) The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you always...
Monday, April 7, 2014
Do You Know Him? Part 4
In the Old Testament the working of the Holy Spirit
happened only to chosen people of God who were equipped for a
particular divine service. However, as we will see, there is a definite difference in these experiences of the
Holy Spirit for the New Testament believer. Not only was this to be the fulfillment of what was spoken by the Prophets Jeremiah (Jeremiah 31:31-34), Ezekiel (Ezekiel 36:25-27) and Joel (Joel 2:28-29) but Jesus Himself mentioned this very thing to His disciples (John 14:15-17, 26, 15:26, 16:7-15) However, we see in Luke's gospel just prior to Jesus' ascension something interesting concerning the coming Holy Spirit, "Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high." (Luke 24:49) The work endued means to "to put on oneself, be clothed with." The Holy Spirit was to come upon believers in such a way that, as Jesus said, "He dwells with you and will be in you." (John 14:17)
Ten days after the ascension of Jesus on the Day of Pentecost, the wonderful work of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament believer begins, "When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." (Acts 2:1-4)
Notice what was taking place here. First, the Holy Spirit came as a "mighty rushing wind." Jesus had mention this very thing concerning the Holy Spirit in His conversation with Nicodemus, "The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit." (John 3:8) Another thing to take note of is the Holy Spirit "filled the whole house where they were sitting." This is actually baptism in the Holy Spirit. Remember, Jesus said the the Holy Spirit would come and "He dwells with you and will be in you." (John 14:17). To be baptized or to receive baptism mean, "to dip; to immerse; to submerse." When a person is water baptized although they are immersed, completely covered in water, they are not filled internally with water, it only surrounds them. This is what happened when the Holy Spirit came. He surrounded them, He immersed them, He "filled the whole house where they were sitting."
Next, "Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them." This is what was spoken of John the Baptist, "I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire." (Matthew 3:11) Throughout the Bible, fire is revealed as a symbol of presence; burning judgment of God; purifying; testing and or God's Holiness. The Holy Spirit appeared to them as divided tongues as of fire which symbolizes a purifying of their speech to speak the gospel unimpeded, or as the apostle Paul said, "And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power." (1 Corinthians 2:4)
The next thing that happened was, "they were all filled with the Holy Spirit." Not only were they immersed (baptized) in the Holy Spirit, but now the Holy Spirit took up residence within them and as Jesus said "endued with power from on high." I also want to note that being filled with the Holy Spirit with power from on high, is subsequent to regeneration, that is receiving Jesus as your Lord and Savior. (Acts 8:5-17, 9:1-9, 17, 19:1-7) Not only is being filled with the Holy Spirit subsequent to regeneration, but the believer is to continued being filled, "And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit." (Ephesians 5:18 with Acts 4:31)
Finally, they "began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." When we look into what we call "speaking in other tongues" we find that there are basically two kinds of tongues mentioned in the New Testament, 'speaking with tongues of men and of angels." (1 Corinthians 13:1) First, as it was on the Day of Pentecost, "And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven. And when this sound occurred, the multitude came together, and were confused, because everyone heard them speak in his own language." (Acts 2:5-6) As we see, the Holy Spirit gave these disciple the power or ability to speak in the articulate language of the numerous travelers who were present in Jerusalem on the Day of Pentecost, the tongues of men. The other kind of tongues spoken of by the apostle Paul is called the "manifestation or gift of the Holy Spirit" (1 Corinthians 12:4-10), and is referred to as "the tongues of angels" or an "unknown tongue," "For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries." (1 Corinthians 14:2)
The point is, what had taken place on the Day of Pentecost was the beginning of the wonderful, supernatural work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers in the service of the Lord Jesus Christ. Unfortunately, in many sectors of the church there are doctrines that reject the work of the Holy Spirit in the way He worked through the believers of the early church. The thoughts behind this are basically, what God did in one dispensation He does not do in another and or, the church has the canonized scripture and therefore has no need of such things. Yet one only has to logically look at the state of what we call the church in the USA to realize that it is erroneous teaching like this that keeps believers safely behind the walls of church building never experiencing "The Gift of the Holy Spirit." (Acts 2:38)
The apostle Paul revealed in his letters to Timothy that this very thing would be permitted to happen in the church in the future. By future, I mean after the first three hundred years of the church. Paul warned Timothy, "Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons." (1 Timothy 4:1) He tells Timothy, "But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!" (2 Timothy 3:1-5)
Even though reformation has come upon the church, and the church has experienced various revivals (to bring back to life) still many church leaders today work at disguising apostasy with various terms and doctrine. It still all comes down to rejecting the work of the Holy Spirit due to "having a form of godliness but denying its power" of Christ(ianity). I pray for all of you who have fallen prey to teaching that deny the Holy Spirit from working in the church as He did in the early church to trust that the Bible is clear in saying, "For I am the LORD, I do not change;" (Malachi 3:6), "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever." (Hebrews 13:8). If God has not changed and Jesus is the same, then God's Word has also not changed, because Jesus is the Word (John 1:1, 1 John 5:7, Revelation 19:13)
In part 5 of this series we will discover the wonderful works of the Holy Spirit and what it means to believers today. Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ...
Ten days after the ascension of Jesus on the Day of Pentecost, the wonderful work of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament believer begins, "When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." (Acts 2:1-4)
Notice what was taking place here. First, the Holy Spirit came as a "mighty rushing wind." Jesus had mention this very thing concerning the Holy Spirit in His conversation with Nicodemus, "The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit." (John 3:8) Another thing to take note of is the Holy Spirit "filled the whole house where they were sitting." This is actually baptism in the Holy Spirit. Remember, Jesus said the the Holy Spirit would come and "He dwells with you and will be in you." (John 14:17). To be baptized or to receive baptism mean, "to dip; to immerse; to submerse." When a person is water baptized although they are immersed, completely covered in water, they are not filled internally with water, it only surrounds them. This is what happened when the Holy Spirit came. He surrounded them, He immersed them, He "filled the whole house where they were sitting."
Next, "Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them." This is what was spoken of John the Baptist, "I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire." (Matthew 3:11) Throughout the Bible, fire is revealed as a symbol of presence; burning judgment of God; purifying; testing and or God's Holiness. The Holy Spirit appeared to them as divided tongues as of fire which symbolizes a purifying of their speech to speak the gospel unimpeded, or as the apostle Paul said, "And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power." (1 Corinthians 2:4)
The next thing that happened was, "they were all filled with the Holy Spirit." Not only were they immersed (baptized) in the Holy Spirit, but now the Holy Spirit took up residence within them and as Jesus said "endued with power from on high." I also want to note that being filled with the Holy Spirit with power from on high, is subsequent to regeneration, that is receiving Jesus as your Lord and Savior. (Acts 8:5-17, 9:1-9, 17, 19:1-7) Not only is being filled with the Holy Spirit subsequent to regeneration, but the believer is to continued being filled, "And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit." (Ephesians 5:18 with Acts 4:31)
Finally, they "began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." When we look into what we call "speaking in other tongues" we find that there are basically two kinds of tongues mentioned in the New Testament, 'speaking with tongues of men and of angels." (1 Corinthians 13:1) First, as it was on the Day of Pentecost, "And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven. And when this sound occurred, the multitude came together, and were confused, because everyone heard them speak in his own language." (Acts 2:5-6) As we see, the Holy Spirit gave these disciple the power or ability to speak in the articulate language of the numerous travelers who were present in Jerusalem on the Day of Pentecost, the tongues of men. The other kind of tongues spoken of by the apostle Paul is called the "manifestation or gift of the Holy Spirit" (1 Corinthians 12:4-10), and is referred to as "the tongues of angels" or an "unknown tongue," "For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries." (1 Corinthians 14:2)
The point is, what had taken place on the Day of Pentecost was the beginning of the wonderful, supernatural work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers in the service of the Lord Jesus Christ. Unfortunately, in many sectors of the church there are doctrines that reject the work of the Holy Spirit in the way He worked through the believers of the early church. The thoughts behind this are basically, what God did in one dispensation He does not do in another and or, the church has the canonized scripture and therefore has no need of such things. Yet one only has to logically look at the state of what we call the church in the USA to realize that it is erroneous teaching like this that keeps believers safely behind the walls of church building never experiencing "The Gift of the Holy Spirit." (Acts 2:38)
The apostle Paul revealed in his letters to Timothy that this very thing would be permitted to happen in the church in the future. By future, I mean after the first three hundred years of the church. Paul warned Timothy, "Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons." (1 Timothy 4:1) He tells Timothy, "But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!" (2 Timothy 3:1-5)
Even though reformation has come upon the church, and the church has experienced various revivals (to bring back to life) still many church leaders today work at disguising apostasy with various terms and doctrine. It still all comes down to rejecting the work of the Holy Spirit due to "having a form of godliness but denying its power" of Christ(ianity). I pray for all of you who have fallen prey to teaching that deny the Holy Spirit from working in the church as He did in the early church to trust that the Bible is clear in saying, "For I am the LORD, I do not change;" (Malachi 3:6), "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever." (Hebrews 13:8). If God has not changed and Jesus is the same, then God's Word has also not changed, because Jesus is the Word (John 1:1, 1 John 5:7, Revelation 19:13)
In part 5 of this series we will discover the wonderful works of the Holy Spirit and what it means to believers today. Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ...
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