THE FLESH

Biblically, the word 'flesh' represents man's predilection toward sin.

When Adam chose to disobey God’s command, he became sinful flesh. Through that immoral act, the entire world was corrupted. Animal life, plant life, and even the ground itself no longer resembled the paradise that was Eden. Originally, there was no such thing as 'death' ... now it permeated everything. 

Since the entire human race descended from Adam, mankind inherited his fallen nature (and its consequences) ... Therefore, as sin came into the world through one man and death through sin, so death has spread to all men, because all have sinned. (Romans 5:12)

It became impossible for us to keep God's divine law ... Those who are in the flesh cannot please God. (Romans 8:8)

Something had to be done ... For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. (Romans 8:3-4)

To understand what it meant for Jesus to come 'in the likeness of sinful flesh', we need to define the term 'likeness'. 

It means resemblance to, not identical to (in substance or nature) ... And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. (Philippians 2:6-8) 

Jesus did not have an earthly father. Therefore, He did not have Adam's sin nature. The Lord took on human flesh by being born of a woman, yet retained His divinity. 

As such, the Lamb of God was able to present Himself as the final perfect sacrifice, more than sufficient to pay for every sin committed by mankind ... He became the Mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the eternal inheritance (since He died to set them free from the violations committed under the first covenant). (Hebrews 9:15)

To receive that full pardon, you must embrace Christ as Lord. Salvation is received by grace through faith in His finished work ... God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. (2 Corinthians 5:21)

Your sinful flesh will be dealt a death blow. You can then proclaim with Paul ... I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. (Galatians 2:20) 

Trust Him and be free. 

THE PROBLEM WITH ... 'LATER'

Scripture tells us of a touching, 'last-minute' conversion. 

Through intense pain and halting breath, a thief being crucified next to Christ uttered his final words ... Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. (Luke 23:42)

Jesus assured him ... Today shalt thou be with me in paradise. (Luke 23:43)

Although this story demonstrates that 'deathbed' conversions can happen, the Gospel of Jesus Christ should be seen as an urgent appeal to a lost and dying world. The Bible warns us not to put off the decision to trust Him as Savior. 

• No one knows how much time he has left. Death can come unexpectedly ... Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth. (Proverbs 27:1)  

• The brevity of life on earth is to be considered ... It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. (James 4:14)

• We are not to put our trust in a 'someday' conversion ... Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts. (Hebrews 4:7)

• Do not take the grace of God for granted ... Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. (2 Corinthians 6:2)

• John the Baptist announced Christ's arrival two thousand years ago, and prophecy says that He could return at any moment ... Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. (Matthew 3:2)

Eventually, time runs out and eternity begins ... for everyone. Then it will be too late to be reconciled to God. 

Spurgeon - I pray that you may feel something pressing you, something that makes you end your long delay, something that makes you feel, “I have no more time to waste; I cannot afford to loiter; I must be saved to-night; I must hear the distinct ticking of God’s great clock, that stands in the hall of grace, and always says, ‘Now; now; now; now; now;’ and never utters any other sound.” 

Tomorrow is not guaranteed. 
Go to Jesus now ... 

Lord, forgive me. I know that I am lost in sin and that I cannot save myself. I believe that you are the only begotten Son of God, that you bore my iniquity on Calvary's cross, and that the grave could not hold you. By faith, I receive the gift of salvation and surrender my life to your Lordship.

Rest for your soul ... what a blessing. 

THE FINGER OF GOD

The phrase appears four times in Scripture, three in the Old Testament and once in the New. It represents the Lord's willingness to interject Himself in the affairs of men with a divine power that exposes His sovereignty.   

The first reference to the 'finger of God' came after the third plague was unleashed on Israel's captors ... And the Lord said unto Moses, Say unto Aaron, Stretch out thy rod, and smite the dust of the land, that it may become lice throughout all the land of Egypt. (Exodus 8:16)

When Pharaoh's magicians tried and failed to replicate that miracle, they proclaimed ... 'This is the finger of God'. (Exodus 8:19)

The second occasion was when the Lord issued the 'Ten Commandments' ... And He gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God. (Exodus 31:18) 

Moses later reaffirmed the account ... Then the Lord delivered to me two tablets of stone written with the finger of God, and on them were all the words which the Lord had spoken to you on the mountain from the midst of the fire in the day of the assembly. (Deuteronomy 9:10)

The New Testament reference was in Jesus' own words. After setting a man free from an evil spirit, He challenged His accusers ... Now if I cast out demons by Beelzebub, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore, they will be your judges. But if I cast out demons with the finger of God, no doubt the kingdom of God has come upon you. (Luke 11:19-20)

Matthew's gospel used the word 'Spirit' in place of 'finger', but the meaning remains the same ... Christ performed miracles by the very same power that caused the lice to swarm and the writing to appear on the tablets of stone.

Consider this, pilgrim ... 

Our Creator (who could wipe out the earth with a single poke of that 'finger') chose instead to 'interject Himself in the affairs of men' another way ... For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16)

Amazing. 

 

GOD'S FAITHFULNESS

The Lord has not left us to our own devices when it comes to living the Christian life. It is His 'faithfulness' that underpins every aspect of our spiritual journey. Paul's benediction to the early church remains our encouragement today ... 

Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it. (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24)

In the original Greek, the term 'faithful' means ... reliable or trustworthy. God's ongoing affection for (and allegiance to) His children is an unbreakable bond. 

We are called to live above reproach ... I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. (Romans 12:1)

But the God who demands holiness also provides the means ... being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:6)

Remember it is ... through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. (Lamentations 3:22-23) 

He is our Potter. We are the 'clay' that He is molding into the likeness of His Son. Rest in the knowledge that His hands are sure and His work is flawless ... confirming you to the end, that you may be blameless in the day of our Lord. (1 Corinthians 1:8)

When we feel weak and discouraged ... Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful. (Hebrews 10:23)

So, what is required on our part? The answer ... 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)

You are not alone, pilgrim. 

THAT DAY

On a hill just outside the city walls, the 'prophet' who’d been attracting crowds of eager followers for the past three years hung on a blood-stained wooden cross. As darkness blanketed the scene, distraught mourners grieved ... while others mocked and jeered. 

The cruelty finally came to an end. 

Jesus cried out and yielded up His spirit. And behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; and the earth shook and the rocks were split. The tombs were opened, and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised; and coming out of the tombs after His resurrection, they entered the holy city and appeared to many. (Matthew 27:50-53)

Staggering events took place in the moments following Christ's death:

• Those near the temple heard the sound of fabric ripping. Miraculously, the massive curtain that separated the 'outer temple' from the 'Holy of Holies' was torn in half from the top down. Christ was now the 'Way' to God ... Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the veil, that is, His body. (Hebrews 10:19-20)

• The ground heaved and violently convulsed when the Son of God exhaled His last breath. As His brutalized body grew limp, boulders began to crack loudly and cleave apart ... unsealing the tombs. It reminds us of the time Jesus defended the preaching of the Gospel by His apostles ... "I tell you," He replied, “if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.” (Luke 19:40)

• Out of the opened sepulchers came the resurrected bodies of those who died in faith. We can't help but wonder about the impact it had on people who recognized them in Jerusalem. This extraordinary event occurred as a testimony to the immortal power ascribed to God ... The Lord brings death and makes alive; He brings down to the grave and raises up. (1 Samuel 2:6) 

Charles Swindoll - All these events announced that the One who was crucified as King of the Jews was no 'charlatan' or 'madman'. Anybody with an eye to see or an ear to hear would have recognized that something extremely significant had just happened.

It was planned from the beginning. Calvary's cross was to be 'ground zero' for mankind's redemption.  

'Eternity past' looked forward to that day, and 'eternity future' will look back on it with wonder. The very idea that 'God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life' ... is beyond astounding.

Take it in, soak it up. It was for you that Christ died. 

THE FOOTSTOOL

Biblically, a 'footstool' is the symbol of lowliness, humility, and unimportance. There are three ways the term is applied in Scripture ... 

1. God used it as a metaphor to express how great He is (and how insignificant we are by comparison). How foolish for us to fight against His sovereign will. How ridiculous to think we are in control of our lives and environment. How sinful to turn our backs on the Lord of the universe and worship the 'little god' we make out of ourselves. He proclaimed ... Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. (Isaiah 66:1)

2. Even so, the Son of God humbled Himself, took on human flesh, and came to live on that 'footstool'. Jesus Christ was mocked, tortured, and crucified in order to redeem those who receive Him as Lord and Savior. Every unbeliever will bow in His presence ... But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God, from that time waiting till His enemies are made His footstool. (Hebrews 10:12-13)

3. James rebuked those who show favoritism among the brethren. God is not a 'respecter of persons' and we are to be as He is. Everyone stands on level ground before the King of Kings ... When you pay attention to one wearing fine clothes and say to him, 'You sit here in a good place', and tell a poor man, 'Sit here at my footstool', have you not shown partiality among yourselves, and become judges with evil thoughts? (James 2:3-4)

The overall concept is 'subjugation to authority'. 

We cannot come close to comprehending how powerful, how infinite, and how majestic our Lord is. But ... the Gospel of Jesus Christ allows us to catch a glimpse of His boundless love and unfathomable goodness. If you have surrendered your life to Him, find joy in this amazing truth: 

The God who’s so big that the earth is His 'footstool' ... sacrificed Himself to pay your sin debt, adopted you as His own, and knows you intimately. 

THE FLEECE

The phrase 'putting out a fleece' represents man's need to be reassured. It comes from a story found in the Old Testament Book of Judges.  

When the Lord told Gideon to gather Israelite troops and lay siege on the Midianite invaders, he balked at the command. To be sure it was really God’s voice he was hearing, the prophet asked for a sign.

Gideon laid a woolen mantle on the ground and set the conditions. He petitioned God to make it wet while keeping the surrounding dirt dry. In the morning, the fleece was drenched, and the ground remained parched dust. Still not satisfied, he requested more proof ... and the Lord mercifully complied.  

It is important that this passage not become a model for interacting with God today. Before Pentecost, believers were directed externally by His providential hand. Now we have the indwelling Holy Spirit as our 'guide into all truth'. (John 16:13) 

The inspired Word of God also reveals His divine will ...  profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17) 

To demand a sign in the 'age of grace' displays a weak and immature faith.     

There is no need to lay out a 'fleece'. God doesn't make His children flounder in ignorance ... for everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. (Matthew 7:8)

If you've surrendered your life to Jesus as Lord, obedience to God's will no longer depends on your judgment it ... I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. (Galatians 2:20) 

Immeasurable peace and assurance, instead of doubt and fear.

TIME OUT

Finding a secluded setting where the clamor of everyday life is silenced for a while allows you to spiritually refocus, recommit, and refuel. 

The Son of God often devoted 'alone time' with His heavenly Father ...

• But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray. (Luke 5:16)
• Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. (Mark 1:35)
• Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” (Matthew 26:36)

If Christ needed it, how much more do you? Your weary soul is refreshed when you pull away from the world and do two things ... 

Meditate on the inspired Word of God ... All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17) 

Pour your heart out in prayer ... But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. (Matthew 26:36)

Once you've established a regular habit of 'quiet time' with God, the prism through which you see life will be dramatically changed ... while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. (2 Corinthians 4:18) 

Your ongoing sanctification depends on it ...  And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. (Romans 12:2)

Pilgrim, if your schedule is so full and demanding that you cannot carve out time to meet with the Lord ... A REVISION IS IN ORDER.

PRUNING

Jesus used an impactful allegory to stress the importance of abiding in Him ... I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. (John 15:1-2)

Those who heard His teaching were familiar with the process of nurturing grapes. They knew that effective 'husbandry' included two important duties ...

1) Dead and overgrown branches removed and cast into the fire. 
2) Fruit-bearing branches pruned in order to maximize yield. 

The first represents the 'pretenders to the faith' who entwine themselves into the church (but only have a 'form' of godliness). The second are the true followers of Christ who are being transformed into His likeness (removing anything that hinders spiritual growth). 

'Pruning' can seem severe at times, but it is necessary for maturation ... For whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives. (Hebrews 12:6)

Notice that the Father prunes (or disciplines) those already bearing fruit ... not for punishment but for purification. Although we are already considered 'righteous' because of our faith in the finished work of His Son (justification) ... cleansing must continue (sanctification).

This can involve the loss of something that seems important. The Lord may strip you of certain opportunities, treasured possessions, or even your health ... all for the divine purpose of redirecting your priorities and increasing spiritual sensitivity. 

But the cost of discipleship will not leave you barren. Jesus concluded His message this way ... These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. (John 15:11)

A wise gardener knows 'what', 'how', and 'when' to prune. Our Lord knows exactly what needs to be taken away, precisely how to make the cut, and the best time for it to take place. 

UNIQUE IN EVERY WAY

'Liberal minded' people imagine the Lord sitting atop a mountain that has several paths that successfully lead to Him. World religions such as Islam, Buddhism, Confucianism, Hinduism, Judaism, Sikhism, and Taoism are proudly emblazoned on the signposts at each trailhead. 

Christianity stands alone because it is God's answer to mankind's sinful condition. 
It is not just 'another' truth ... but the 'only' truth. 

What makes it so? 

• Other religions tell man to reach up to God. Christianity is the only religion where God reaches down to man ...  And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. (John 1:14)

• Other religions are systems of do’s and don'ts to placate God. Christianity is a 'relationship' founded on a better promise ... But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of a man, but of God. (John 1:12-13)

• Other religions have their beliefs outlined in treatises written by men. Christianity has the Bible, proven to be infallible in every historical fact, every aspect of creation, and every prophecy given ... All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. (2 Timothy 3:16)

• Other religions have dead 'demigods'. Christianity has the living SON OF GOD. Muhammad did not rise from the dead. Confucius did not rise from the dead. Krishna did not rise from the dead. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is key to man's salvation ... And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. 

Every other religion has a precept that says man plays a role in his own salvation. It is a deceptive trap that feeds on mankind's prideful nature ... leading souls up a mountain where nothing but damnation dwells.  

We have Jesus, who is sufficient for every need. Nothing can be added, for He alone is ... the Way, the Truth, and the Life: no one comes to the Father, but through Him. (John 14:6) 

Christianity is unique ...

APOLOGETICS

Every believer is called to be an 'apologist': one who can express and defend the Gospel of Jesus Christ. If you have experienced His unconditional love and forgiveness, your testimony becomes a lifeline to those who want to know why you are 'the way you are'.  

With your mind stayed on Him, you are made available ... But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear. (1 Peter 3:15)

You carry long-awaited tidings from the 'Throne of Grace' ... How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who proclaims salvation. (Isaiah 52:7)

The goal of 'apologetics' is not to win arguments, but to deliver the 'good news' and answer questions. The study of God's Word and the ability to recall relevant verses are key to effective evangelism ... All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness. (2 Timothy 3:16)

When confronted by those who defiantly reject any reference to God, your countenance matters ... And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance, leading them to a knowledge of the truth. (2 Timothy 2:24-25)

Every Christian should know what he believes, why he believes it, and how to share it with others. Defending the Gospel against lies and attacks will be much more common in these ... the 'end of days'. 

Stay emotionally composed, yet bold in the Lord. 

Show compassion, but be uncompromising concerning the Way of Salvation. 

WHO ARE YOU ?

Mankind desperately tries to navigate 'the sea of his discontent' without a rudder. 

It is as if we have been set adrift with no land in sight, no harbor to rest our weary souls. Insecurities concerning who and what we are cause us to anchor in all the wrong places. 

We spend much of life worrying about what other 'flawed' human beings think of us. Everyone wants to be valued, loved, and respected, but no matter how much we are admired ... it never satisfies the longing of our heart. 

What really matters, pilgrim: Who are you to God? 

If you've genuinely surrendered your life to Him, the Bible answers that question. Your name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life with the following identifiers ...

• Born anew ... For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:10)

• Cleansed ... In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace. (Ephesians 1:7)

• Morally pure ... For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. (2 Corinthians 5:21)

• A child of God ... having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will. (Ephesians 1:5)

• A living testimony ... You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. (Matthew 5:14)

Seeing and establishing your worth through the lens of this lost and dying world is fruitless. God doesn't judge a man's life on a graduated 'good vs evil' scale, but whether it is hidden in Christ. 

If you've chosen to reject the Gospel and go your own way, know that the Lord sees you as an 'enemy of the cross', and a 'vessel fit for destruction'. The warning is clear ... There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death. (Proverbs 16:25)

Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and be made right in God's sight. 

RESISTING THE SPIRIT OF GOD

The Holy Spirit is the powerful third member of our Triune God. His work is different than that of the Father and the Son, for it is by Him that mankind is convicted of sin, led to the foot of the cross, and introduced to Jesus Christ as Savior. 

His role in our salvation is so important that Jesus solemnly declared ... And so I tell you, every kind of sin and slander can be forgiven, but blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come. (Matthew 12:31-32)

In other words, there is no hope of forgiveness for those who vehemently oppose the Spirit's part in opening the channel through which one understands and applies the Gospel message. 

Without His intervention, it is impossible for saving faith to take root in the heart of man. A parallel passage sheds more light on the consequences of deriding and dismissing His divinity ... Truly I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the sons of men, and whatever blasphemies they speak. But he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is in danger of eternal condemnation. (Mark 3:28-29) 

This sin is considered 'unforgivable' because it represents a hardening of the heart that persistently refuses to acknowledge God’s power to save ... a total and final rejection of the Holy Spirit’s work, leaving no room for repentance.

Jesus Himself explained that the Spirit's duty is to ... convict the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. (John 16:8) 

Suppressing this conviction forces the hand of God. He will eventually give the rebel over to the 'sinful desires of his heart, shameful lusts, and a depraved mind'. (Romans 1:24-28)

It is a fearful thing to be 'given over' to one’s own destructive ways. Allow the Holy Spirit to draw you to the throne of grace. 

TO FOLLOW CHRIST

Everyone follows something: popular culture, influential people, selfish ambitions, etc. The Bible makes it clear that you cannot devote yourself to more than one thing at a time. 

No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. (Matthew 6:24) 

The Lord's command, 'follow me', appears in all four gospels. In most cases, He was speaking to those who would become the twelve apostles. In others, Jesus was calling 'anyone' who wanted what He offered ...  

And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, 'Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me'. (Mark 8:34)

Jesus is to be 'everything' to you. He stated in no uncertain terms what the cost of following Him would be ... 

He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it. (Matthew 10:37-39)

His disciples walked with Jesus for three years, learning, observing, and even participating in all that He did. But when following Him meant standing shoulder to shoulder at the foot of Calvary's cross, they crumbled. Up till then, their allegiance depended on 'inner fortitude' and 'personal resolve'. 

It was not enough. 

They needed a 'Helper' to stay true to their Messiah (and so do we) ... But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, He shall testify of Me. (John 15:26)

Today's church pews are full of people who attempt to follow Christ in their own strength. They have the 'appearance' of faith without the 'substance' of faith ... outwardly performing religious rituals without an inward surrender to Jesus' Lordship.  

True believers know that brokenness comes before discipleship; death before life ... I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)

The indwelling Holy Spirit allows you to boldly follow Jesus Christ. Sanctification transforms you into His likeness and equips you to finish the race ... regardless of the cost.

EXCHANGING THE TRUTH FOR A LIE

God has placed eternity in the heart of man and revealed Himself as Sovereign Lord ... For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse. (Romans 1:20)

Because of mankind's inherited sinful nature, most refuse to acknowledge His very existence (or redefine who or what He is) ... They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator. (Romans 1:25)

To venerate that which was made over the One who made it is inexcusable ... For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth. What can be known about God is plain to them because He has shown it to them. (Romans 1:18-19)

In these last days, we are witnessing His judgment pour out upon those who've chosen to cherish the lie. It is obvious that the gulf between good and evil is widening ... And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, He gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness, etc. (Romans 1:28-29)

The consequences of rejecting the Lord are dire ... And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life. (Matthew 25:46)

Be among the 'righteous' who have accepted Jesus Christ's death, burial, and resurrection as payment for their sin. He is ... The Way, THE TRUTH, and the Life. (John 14:6)

Sadly, exchanging the truth about God for a lie is common to man ... a 'wide road' that leads to destruction. 

Choose the 'narrow road', pilgrim.

UNSEARCHABLE RICHES

Paul was called to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ to 'non-Jews'. He humbly explained his role this way ... 

Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, was this grace given, to preach unto the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the dispensation of the mystery which for ages hath been hid in God who created all things. (Ephesians 3:8-9)

The phrase 'unsearchable riches' speaks of the blessings bestowed upon those who receive Christ as Lord. It was at the core of Paul's heartening message to a lost and dying world. These include ... 

1. Wisdom - Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God!  (Romans 11:33)

2. Grace - In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace. (Ephesians 1:7)

3. Provision - And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:19)

God's purpose for imparting these treasures is our 'sanctification' ... Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. (2 Peter 1:4)

The 'rarity' of something usually dictates its value, but not in this case. That which is most precious to one's soul is 'boundless' in scope; forgiveness, love, comfort, and transforming power ... all without limit.

The 'unsearchable riches of Christ' equip us to successfully finish the race; for it is ... not by might, nor by power, but by My spirit, saith the Lord of hosts. (Zechariah 4:6)

As a tremendously gifted evangelist, Paul could easily have been consumed with pride ... but he knew from where those gifts were issued and remained humble. 

We ought to do the same.

I DON'T FEEL LIKE IT

Many believers experience doubt concerning their relationship with God because of 'feelings' (or the lack thereof). Scripture has much to say about 'being' saved ... but nothing about 'feeling' saved.

Allowing human emotion to dictate what's real and what's not is nothing but an 'egocentric' exercise. When this world's 'feeling-oriented' culture gains a foothold in the life of a Christian, the ground becomes unstable. 

Confidence in the gift of salvation comes from the Lord ... 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)

If Christ's sufficiency for every aspect of your walk of faith is not relied upon, inner 'feelings' become self-centered aberrations that distort the truth of God's Word. 

You are 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)

A preoccupation with 'self' comes from out-of-control introspection of 'self' ... which is the opposite of dying to 'self'. 

You are essentially obsessing over the feelings of a corpse ... I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)

Assurance of salvation and rest for your soul springs from the words, "IT IS FINISHED" ... not whether you 'feel' saved. 

OUR PROVIDER

Jehovah Jireh is Hebrew for 'The Lord will provide' ... But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19) 

Contrary to the 'name it, claim it' teachings in today's charismatic churches, this verse does not say believers get everything they 'want' ... but everything they 'need'. God’s provisions always align with His will and purpose. Necessity and sufficiency are what He promises, not satisfying man's wanton desire for excess and luxury. 

The untainted truth concerning God's pledge is found in Scripture. It brings to light His ability to provide (and willingness to do so) ... 

• His warehouse is replete ... The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein. (Psalm 24:1)

• He is trustworthy ... God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it? (Numbers 23:19(

• We are cherished ... Because of the Lord’s great love, we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning.  (Lamentations 3:22-23)

• If He was gracious enough to provide His Son as the sacrificial Lamb of God, He will certainly meet our needs in this life ... He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also with Him graciously give us all things? (Romans 8:32)

Spurgeon - What? Will He deny you bread for your body, after He has given you Christ, the Bread of Heaven, for your soul?  Will He deny you clothes for your body, after He has clothed your soul with the robe of Christ's perfect righteousness?  Will He deny you a sufficient store of earthly goods that you may get through this world, when He has already given you a mansion in the skies and an unfading crown of life?

You can be assured that your needs will be met because of God's divine character, His ownership of creation, and His commitment to His children. 

Trust the One who holds your future ... For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you, says the Lord, plans for peace and well-being. (Jeremiah 29:11)

He is worthy ... 

BLEMISHED OFFERINGS

The Mosaic Law required animal sacrifices for a temporary atoning for man's sin ... Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness. (Hebrews 9:22) 

An 'acceptable' offering had to cost the bearer something ... there was no pain in getting rid of a diseased lamb that was going to be culled from the flock anyway.

Bringing a disfigured or sick animal to the temple was in direct violation of the Lord's command ... And if there be any blemish therein, as if it be lame, or blind, or have any ill blemish, thou shalt not sacrifice it unto the Lord thy God. (Deuteronomy 15:21) 

But this Old Testament ordinance was never designed to be the 'end-all' for mankind's fallen state. It was given as a 'foreshadowing' of what would take place on Calvary's cross ... Sacrifices and offerings, burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not desire, nor were you pleased with them, though they were offered in accordance with the law. (Hebrews 10:8)

Not only forgiveness of sin, but eternal salvation comes through ... the precious blood of Christ, a Lamb without blemish or defect. (1 Peter 1:19)

Once you receive Jesus as Lord, there is a new application for the word, 'sacrifice' ... I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. (Romans 12:1)

Today’s believer is often a blemished offering. Simply attending church, singing songs, listening to sermons, and giving a tithe is not what God desires. He wants you, not just your emblematic 'stuff' ... For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:10) 

But know this ... anything we offer in service to God while knowingly continuing in unconfessed sin is considered a 'lame' sacrifice. Repent and be made fit for use in His Kingdom.

CONVICTION

The Son of God knew the end was at hand. After Jesus revealed what He was about to go through, He comforted His disciples with these words ...  

Nevertheless, I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment. (John 16:7-8)

At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit was poured out on all who trusted Christ as Lord ... and His duties continue today, one of which is to evoke 'conviction' in the hearts and minds of those who are lost. 

To understand what that word means, we should first look at what it is not ...

• It isn't simply a guilty conscience or shame over sin. These are feelings naturally experienced by almost everyone. 

• It isn't a foreboding of divine punishment. It, too, is common to mankind in general. 

• It isn't acknowledging the difference between right and wrong ... nor is it even an assent to Scripture’s teaching about sin's consequences. 

These are 'internal' promptings. The truth is, if you experience nothing more than a 'pang of conscience', 'anxiety at the thought of judgment', or an 'academic awareness of hell' ... you've never truly known the Biblical 'conviction of sin'. 

So, what is it then?

• The verb 'convict' is translated from the Greek word elencho, defined as ... 'to convince someone of the truth; to reprove; to accuse, refute, or cross-examine a witness'. 

• Therefore, the Holy Spirit acts as a prosecuting attorney who exposes evil, upbraids the sinner, and persuades him of his need for a Savior.

• To be convicted is 'to be overwhelmed by the sheer loathsomeness of sin'. This takes place when the Holy Spirit exposes you to God’s holiness, and you see yourself through His eyes. 

Two examples ... 

When Isaiah stood in the presence of God, he was devastated by what was revealed ... Woe to me! I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty. (Isaiah 6:5)

When David was convicted by the Lord of his adultery, he cried out ... Against You, You only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Your sight - that You may be found just when You speak, and blameless when You judge. (Psalm 51:4)

The Holy Spirit not only convicts people of sin, but He also brings them to repentance. 

Without 'conviction', there can be no 'salvation'. It is divinely issued by a loving God so that the Gospel of Jesus Christ can take effect ... 'No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him'. (John 6:44)

Through it, an unsaved person realizes that he is guilty ... that God is just ... and that all sinners are deserving of judgment. Once he's awakened to his soul’s great need, the Holy Spirit faithfully points him to the foot of the cross.