Easter - Resurrection Day!

.....Romans 6: 4 says, "As Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life."

.....In my line of work I have often had the privilege of meeting those who are at the bottom of their life, feeling lost, abandoned, and helpless, consumed in addiction and other life-controlling issues. And through our ministry's Christian Discipleship Program, I have been blessed and able to see God's miracles everyday as these people have their lives turned completely around and transformed right before my eyes, through the power of God. Like a caterpillar coming out of a cocoon and standing before me as a beautiful butterfly, these people experience liberation from their addictions, leaving behind lifestyles of hatred, and violence, experiencing grace, embracing the faith of a better future, hope, love, joy, peace, and forgiveness, for God, themselves, and others. They have truly become a "new creation" in Christ.

How is this possible?

.....The key to their transformation is the empty tomb on Easter morning. Paul spells out the impact of that empty grave when he writes in Romans 6:4, " We were buried with Christ through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead (This is the power that was unleashed) through the glory of the Father, we too may walk and live a new life." This faith, in choosing to boldly and unswervingly believe what God has said about them, and what He has said has happened to them, frees them to live as never before, for the good of God, and others. This is why the faith of a mustard seed has the ability to move mountains out of our own lives today.

.....Easter is obviously a big deal in the life of Jesus. But it is also a big deal for you and me also. The power of the risen Lord breaks addictions, melts hatred, and gives each of us a sense of purpose to live as resurrection people, experiencing all that God has for us, heaven on earth.

.....The expression "live a new life" literally means "walk a new life." The God we serve loves to take walks. He walked with Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden according to Genesis 3: 8. He walked with the Old Testament people through the wilderness into the promise land in Exodus 40: 36-38. In Christ, He walked the dusty streets of Palestine, and then walked out of the tomb on Easter morning. Why? So we could see the victory that took place for us, and could personally walk with Him as He led the way into a fresh new life for us to experience all that God has for us as never before.

.....I would only ask the Lord to show you the power of the victory that took place over 2000 years ago, on this Easter Sunday. Upon seeing that, I know that your life will be truly changed forever, experiencing it daily in your life, leading you and guiding you into a life of resurrection, hope and power, unlike anything you have ever experienced before.
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The Riches Of God Through Christ!

.....Mathew 13:44 says, " The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for the joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field."

.....Mathew 13:45-46 says, " The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it."

.....I wish to discuss these 2 small parables today, but first let's ask ourselves, What is the kingdom of heaven?

.....The "kingdom of heaven" or "kingdom of God" in New Testament terminology and concept stands for and is indicative of the blessings of God according to Mark 10:25-26. Heaven is that which is over this earth, and through Jesus' Lordship and rule, is now available to bring life to every human experience today. A new power and presence of a new world of potential and hope to mankind, with respect to experiencing heaven on earth.

.....The kingdom of heaven. The term "kingdom" which means the king's domain is used about 137 times in the New Testament. "Kingdom of heaven" or its equivalent is found about 100 times in regards to Jesus' Ministry, and preaching about the kingdom. John the Baptist came preaching the kingdom of God and indicated it was then imminent in Mathew 3:2.

.....These 2 short parables were given to us to better understand the things concerning the kingdom of God that are far beyond anything that we could ever think or imagine. Spiritual truths always have preeminence over the physical, or the natural. This is why Jesus had to speak to us in parables, so we could get the bigger picture.

.....The treasure hid in the field, or the pearl found represent things of great value and worth, which we may make our own. Jesus Christ is the true Treasure; in Him there is an abundance of all that which is rich and useful, and will be a portion for us: all fullness (Col. 1:19; John 1:16): treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Col. 2:3), of righteousness, grace, and peace; these are laid up for us in Christ; and, if we have an interest in Him, it is all our own.

.....The gospel is the field in which this treasure is hid: it is hid in the word of the Old Testament and the New Testament. In gospel ordinances it is hid as the milk in the breast, the marrow in the bone, the manna in the dew, the water in the well (Isa. 12:3), and the honey in the honey-comb. It is hid, not in a garden enclosed, or a spring shut up, but in a field, an open field; whoever will, let him come, and search the scriptures; let him dig in this field according to Proverbs 2:4; and whatever royal mines we find, they are all our own, if we take the right course. It is a great thing to discover the treasure hid in this field, and the unspeakable value of it. The reason why so many slight the gospel, and will not be at the expense, and run the hazard, of entertaining it, is because they look only upon the surface of the field, and judge by that. The richest mines are often in grounds that appear most barren; and therefore people in general will not so much as bid for the field, much less come up to the price.

.....Those who discern this treasure in the field, and value it, will never be easy till they have made it their own upon any terms. They that have found this treasure, sometimes hide it, which denotes a holy jealousy, rejoicing in it, though as yet the bargain be not made; they are glad there is such a bargain to be had. They are the ones whose resolve is to buy this field, making it their own, for the sake of the unseen treasure in it. It is Christ in the gospel that we are to have an eye to; we need not go up to heaven, but can experience the kingdom of heaven on this earth if and when we truly find Christ. Christ is the key that opens up the kingdom to us. But in finding that key, we must be willing to part with all, counting every thing but loss, that we may win Christ, and be found in Him.

.....Today, many of us are busy, seeking our own treasures and pearls: ones that would make us rich, other things that would bring us power or honor, and take up with counterfeits for pearls. Jesus Christ is a Pearl of great price, a Jewel of inestimable value, which will make those who have it rich, truly rich, rich toward God. And in having Him, we have enough to make us happy here and forever. This is truly what opens the eyes of our understanding to see all the treasures and pearls which He has placed around us upon this earth. A true experience of heaven on earth through the all the wonderful people that He places in our path to have fellowship, and relationships with. I have found Christ, and that spiritual treasure or pearl of great worth today. And because of that, I am truly blessed and able to see all of the physical treasures and pearls of great worth in my life today. I would only hope to show them, as God has shown me through truth and love, by having the privilege of experiencing the kingdom of heaven on this earth with them today with Christ. Isn't that why we are here?
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Why Should We Study The Bible?

.....Why should we study the bible? The simple answer is because God in His word tells us to. (2Timothy 2:15) Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. We are exhorted to preach the word and to be able to defend it. (2Timothy 4:2) Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all long suffering and teaching. Scripture is the tool God has given us and it is our duty to study it, know it, and apply it. (2Timothy 3:16-17) All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is 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.

I have listed some of the benefits to studying God’s word:

.....Studying the bible develops an appetite for God’s word and allows for spiritual growth:

.....(Matthew 4:4) But He answered and said, "It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God." We must nourish our physical body with food. Without food our body begins to grow weak and can not function to its fullest potential. In this condition we can not properly perform our duties at home or the work place. We become ineffective and worthless. As our physical body needs nourishment, so does our spiritual part. If we do not take in a regular intake of bible doctrine, we become worthless as servants to God. To be strong spiritually and be good stewards we need a steady diet of His word. (1Peter 2:2) as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, By feeding on God’s word we will become mature Christians. As believers we have a hunger that can only be satisfied by God’s word, anything else will leave us feeling hungry. (Job 23:12) I have not departed from the commandment of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food.

.....Studying the bible gives us the opportunity to know God and to reveal His character:

.....God is not an inanimate object but a living God. As believers we should know God on a much more personal level then the world. We learn through His word that He is a loving God offering comfort, peace, and mercy. He is our hope and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ who is our savior. The attributes of God and His love is probably a endless list but by studying His word we will develop a greater appreciation and a thankful attitude toward God as we see Him unfold in the scriptures. If we do not know God, how can we love and appreciate what he has done for us? (Ephesians 3:19) to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

.....Studying the bible helps us know the truth:

.....As students of the bible, we must not trust the authority of man, but search the scriptures to see what God says. We must study the bible with diligence and prayer. (Acts 17:11) These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.

.....It is important to have prayer and communication with God so that the Holy Spirit can teach us. (1Corinthians 2:13) These things we also speak, not in words which man's wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual. Truth is important, especially when it is God’s truth. If we study God’s word, we will know His truth and we will be able to recognize a lie when we hear one. (1John 4:1) Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world. Discover the truth and do not be carried down the path of deception. (2Peter 2:1) But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction. Studying God’s word protects us from traveling down this road.

.....In summary studying the bible allows us to be better workman for God. It equips us with the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) so that we can quench the fiery darts of the devil and be more than conquers in Christ. (Romans 8:37) Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.

.....Remember our citizenship is not on earth but in heaven and while on earth we are to represent Christ in everything we do. That is our job to represent Christ to the world and to preach His saving message. By studying His word we will be able to give reasons and to prove by the Word to the lost why Christ is our hope. The word of God will set you free, so discover His truth in the word and enjoy the freedom and peace it brings. (John 8:32) "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

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Temptation

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Sin will always take you farther than you are wanting to go.
Keep you longer than you are wanting to stay.
And cost you more than you are willing to pay.

.....Today I wish to speak truth into your life about Temptation. We all face temptations everyday in our own lives, sometimes causing us to sin, or miss the mark of the upward calling that God has and desires in our lives. I shall also try to convey how temptation works, and also the 7 stages of temptation.

.....Let's start with 1Corinthians 10: 12- 13 which says, "Therefore let him who think he stands take heed lest he fall. No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it."

Some things to note from this are:

1. We are in dangerous territory when we think we can't fall.
2. Your temptations will always seek to overtake you.
3. Your temptations are not unique to you, but are common to all of us.
4. God never abandons you in temptations due to his faithfulness.
5. God never permits any temptation to go beyond what you are able to bear.
6. God always makes the way of escape in every temptation.
7. God always limits every temptation so that you will be able to endure it.

.....James 1: 13-17 says, "Let no one say when he is tempted, I am tempted by God; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full grown, brings forth death. Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning."

Let's note a few things from this scripture also:

1. God is never the ultimate source of any evil temptation.
2. God is always the ultimate source of every good gift.
3. Every temptation purposefully seeks to deceive
4. Every temptation becomes a temptation when you are drawn away from God's plan for your life.
5. Every temptation can only temp you because of your own desires.
6. Every temptation attempts to cunningly entice you, into making the wrong choice.
7. Every temptation has only one ultimate goal, which is to make you sin.

Remember, There is always free cheese in a mouse trap.

Let me show you the 7 stages of temptation from the above scriptures so that you have an awareness from now on:

• He is drawn away ..........The Look
• By his own desires ..........Your Lust
  
• And enticed .........The Lure
• Desire has conceived .........The Conception
• It gives birth to sin ..........The Birth
• And sin when full grown ..........The Growth (Maturing)
  
• Brings forth death ..........The Death (Separation From God)

.....There is a way to deal with temptation in our lives today. I call it the Quick Signal Principle. Anytime we are tempted, that is our signal that we need to turn to God, for the way of escape. God has already given us the way of escape. Jesus Christ is The Way, The Truth, and The Light, (John 14: 6). We have The Way through His Son's Finished Work, who has already defeated the enemy. The Truth, in His Word, which is our standard to compare everything to. And The Light, to lead us out of the darkness, lighting our path so that we may not stumble. Setting us Free to serve Him, fulfilling our calling in life.
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Jesus Makes Fishers Of Men!

Mathew 4:18-22 says, " And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And He saith unto them, Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed Him. And going on from thence, He saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and He called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed Him."

.....When Christ began to preach, He began to gather disciples, who should now be the hearers, and hereafter the preachers, of his doctrine, witnessing His miracles, and afterwords, share their understanding and thoughts concerning them.

From this passage of scriptures, let us note a few things.

.....The effectual calling to Christ. In all His preaching He gave a common call to all the world, but in this He gave a special and particular call to those that were given Him by the Father. Let us see and admire the power of Christ's grace, His own word to be the rod of His strength, and wait upon Him for those powerful influences which are necessary to the empowerment of the gospel call--those distinguishing influences. All of us in the world are called today, but we who are in Christ today, answered the call, and are now chosen, being redeemed from among them that are still in the world. Christ should manifest in our lives, showing Himself to those still in the world, revealing God's truth, attracting others to become an heir in His Kingdom, receiving His Salvation.

.....The instance of ordination, and appointment to the work of the ministry. When Christ, as a Teacher, set up His great school, becoming the center of our own lives, one of His first works is to appoint us, like He did back then, to be employed in the work of His Ministry. Now He began to give gifts unto men, to put the treasure into earthen vessels. This was an early instance of His care for the church.

Now we may observe some things here.

.....Where they were called- by the sea of Galilee, where Jesus was walking, Here, on the banks of the sea, Christ was walking for contemplation when He went to call His disciples; surely Christ sees not as man sees. For with God nothing is impossible. This shows that God had chosen the poor of this world. Galilee was a remote part of the nation, the inhabitants were less cultivated and refined, their very language was broad and uncouth to the educated and distinguished in society. They who were picked up at the sea of Galilee, where those had not the advantages and improvements, not of the more polished Galileans; yet Christ went, to call His apostles that were to be the Prime Ministers, and Ambassadors in His kingdom, for He chooses the foolish things of this world, to confound the wise.

.....Who they were. We have an account of the call of two pair of brothers in these verses. Peter and Andrew, James and John; the two former, and, probably, the two latter also, had an acquaintance with Christ before, but were not till now called into a close and constant relationship with Him. Note, Christ brings poor souls by degrees into fellowship with Himself. They had been disciples of John, and so were the better disposed to follow Christ. Those who have submitted to the discipline of repentance, shall be welcome to the joys of faith.

Let us observe some things concerning them.

.....They were brothers. It is a blessed thing, when families are brought together into a spiritual alliance, and in unity to Jesus Christ. It is the honor and comfort of a house, when those that are of the same family, are of God's family, praising, worshiping and serving Him together as one.

.....They were fishermen. Being fishermen, they were poor men: if they had had estates, or any considerable stock in trade, they would not have made fishing their trade, however, they might have made it their recreation. Christ does not despise the poor, and therefore we must not; the poor are to be evangelized.

.....They were unlearned men. Not bred up to books or literature as Moses was, who was conversant with all the learning of the Egyptians. Christ sometimes chooses to endow those with the gifts of grace who have least to show of the gifts of nature. Yet this will not justify the bold intrusion of ignorant and unqualified men into the work of the ministry: extraordinary gifts of knowledge and utterance are not now to be expected, but requisite abilities must be obtained in an ordinary way, and without a competent measure of these, none are to be admitted to that service.

.....They were men of business. They who had been bred up to labor, and not afraid of hard work. Note, Diligence in an honest calling is pleasing to Christ, and no hindrance to a holy life. Moses was called from keeping sheep, and David from following the ewes, to eminent employments. Idle people lie more open to the temptations of Satan than to the calls of God.

.....They were men that were accustomed to hardships and hazards. The fisher's trade, more than any other,was and still is laborious and perilous; fishermen must be often wet and cold; they must watch, and wait, and toil, and be often in perils by waters. Those who have learned to bear hardships, and run hazards, are best prepared for the fellowship and discipleship of Jesus Christ. Good soldiers of Christ must endure hardness.

.....What they were doing. Peter and Andrew were then using their nets, they were fishing; and James and John were mending their nets, which was an instance of their industry. They did not go to their father for money to buy new nets, but took pains to mend their old ones. It is commendable to make what we have go as far, and last as long, as may be. James and John were with their father Zebedee, ready to assist him, and make his business easy to him. It is a happy and hopeful presage, to see children careful of their parents, and dutiful to them.

.....They were all employed, all very busy, and none idle. When Christ comes, it is good to be found doing. "Am I in Christ?" is a very needful question for us to ask ourselves; and, next to that, "Am I in my calling?" They were differently employed; two of them were fishing, and two of them mending their nets. Ministers should be always employed, either in teaching or studying; they may always find themselves something to do, if it be not their own fault; and mending their nets, is, in its season, as necessary work as fishing.

.....The call was "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." They had followed Christ before, as ordinary disciples, but so they might follow Christ, and follow their calling too; therefore they were called to a more close and constant attendance, and must leave their calling. All of us who had been called to follow Christ, have to follow on, and to follow nearer, especially when they are fulfill God's plans and the work of the ministry.

.....What Christ intended them. I will make you fishers of men; this alludes to their former calling. Let them be not proud of the new honor designed them, they are still but fishermen; let them not be afraid of the new work cut out for them, for they have been accustom to fishing,which was one of their natural strengths and gifts, and fishermen they were still. Ministers are fishers of men, not to destroy them, but to save them, by bringing them into another element. They must fish, not for wrath, wealth, honor, and preferment, to gain them to themselves, but for souls, to gain them to Christ. It is Jesus Christ that makes them so; I will make you fishers of men. It is He that qualifies men for this work, calls them to it, authorizes them in it, gives them commission to fish today, and wisdom to win them. We as ministers are likely to have comfort in our work, and have thus been made by Jesus Christ.

.....What they must do in order to this; Follow me. They must separate themselves to a diligent attendance on him, and set themselves to a humble imitation of Him, and must follow Him as their Leader.

Those whom Christ employs in any service for him, must first be fitted and qualified for it.

Those who would preach Christ, must first learn Christ, and learn of him. How can we expect to bring others to the knowledge of Christ, if we do not know him well ourselves?

Those who would get an acquaintance with Christ, must be diligent and constant in their attendance on him. The apostles were prepared for their work, by accompanying Christ all the time that He went in and out among them. There is no learning comparable to that which is gotten by following Christ.

Those who are to fish for men, must follow Christ, and do it as He did, with diligence, faithfulness, and tenderness. Christ is the great pattern for preachers, and they ought to be workers together with Him.

.....What was the success of this call. Peter and Andrew straightway left their nets, while James and John immediately left the ship and their father, and they all followed him. Those who would follow Christ today, must be ready and willing to leave all to follow him. Every Christian must leave all in affection, setting loose to all that is in this world, parting with his own interests, focusing his interest in Jesus Christ. Those who are devoted to the work of the ministry are, in a special manner, concerned to disentangle themselves from all the affairs of this life, that they may give themselves wholly to that work which requires the whole man.

.....The bottom line was the obedience of the disciples, and is for us today, to answer the calling of Christ. It is pure joy for our Heavenly Father when Christ's faithful servants come when they are called, and follow their Master wherever He leads them. The disciples objected not their present employments, their engagements to their families, the difficulties of the service they were called to, or their own unfitness for it; but, being called, they obeyed, and, like Abraham, who went out not knowing where they went, but knowing very well whom they followed. James and John left their father: it is not said what became of him; their mother Salome was a constant follower of Christ; no doubt, their father Zebedee was also a believer, but the call to follow Christ fastened on the young ones. Youth would always be the most opportunistic time for anyone to answer one's calling, because it is the learning age, and the laboring age, allowing people to minister in the prime of their lives, but it is definitely not a requirement. God can use anybody, at any age, but He always looks for willingness, and allows the choice to be ours.

The Renewing Of The Mind!

.....Romans 12: 2 says, "And be not conformed to this world; but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God."

.....This is one thing in each of our lives that we have yet to do today. We are not to be conformed to this world, but we are to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. We are to replace our low thinking with high thinking. That means that we are to replace the way we saw things with seeing them from a higher level. We have the ability today to do this.

.....Business men have to see the power of God flowing through them in business. Housewives do not have to function in the natural to become successful at what they are doing. Regardless of what God has placed you in, you have a supernatural power to do it in your life today. We who are in Christ, are not like other people. Christianity is not just about forgiveness, it is empowerment, it is anointing, and if we are ever going to lead other people to looking upward toward God, then we are going to have to do some shining, so they can see it.

.....Colossians 3: 1-4 says, "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on the things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear then shall ye also appear with Him in glory."

.....The key of this scripture is in setting your affection on the things above. Because, setting your mind on things above is where our source of life flows from. You do not just have natural life within yourself. When you made Jesus Christ Lord of your life, you were given a new kind of life; Eternal Life.

.....So many times we have read scriptures and thought, I am to set my affections on things above because someday I will be in Heaven, but that is not the real reason for this passage of scripture here. Yes, I will be in Heaven someday, but God wants us to think "Heavenward" today. He wants us to be stars for Him. He wants us to shine with the light of God. He wants us to be enlightened and enlighten others with the Revelation, Wisdom, and Knowledge about Jesus. So others will look up and see the Master, instead of looking down at all their problems and circumstances in their lives. He wants everyone to see the answer, and become victorious.

.....Luke 21: 28 says, "And these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.

.....God is calling His people to be stars; shining in a dark and corupt world, getting brighter as the world is getting darker. Let's all start looking up and renewing our minds to what is true of us, and then start sharing that with others.
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The Temptations Of Christ!

.....Mathew 4: 1-11 says, "Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, He was afterward hungry. And when the tempter came to Him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. But He answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God. Then the devil took Him up into the holy city, and set Him on a pinnacle of the temple, and saith unto Him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give His angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. Again, the devil took Him up into an exceeding high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto Him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve. Then the devil left Him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto Him.

.....Today I would like to take a look at the temptations of Christ, and share some things concerning this. But before we do, let us take a look at the real meaning of the word tempt. In English, the word tempt has a uniformly and consistently bad meaning. It always means to entice a man to do wrong, to seek or seduce him into sin, and try to persuade him to take the wrong way. But the Greek word for tempt, "Peirazein," has a quite different element in its meaning. It means to test.

.....An Old Testament example of this would be the story of how narrowly Abraham escaped sacrificing his only son Isaac. Genesis 22: 1 says, " And it came to pass after these things that God did tempt Abraham. Now clearly, the word tempt here did not mean to seek or seduce into evil. We all know that it is quite unthinkable that God would try to make any man sin or do wrong. What is quite clear here is the true meaning, "After these things God tested Abraham." A supreme test of loyalty. Just as metal has to be refined and tested far beyond any stress and strain that it will ever be called upon to bear before it can be put to any useful purpose, so a man has to be tested before God can use him for His purposes. What we call temptation is not meant to make us sin; it is meant to enable us to conquer sin.It is not meant to make us bad; it is meant to make us good. It is not meant to weaken us; it is meant to make us emerge stronger, and finer, and purer from the ordeal. Temptation is not the penalty of being a man, temptation is the glory of being a man. It is the test which comes to a man whom God wishes to use. So then, we must think of this whole incident concerning Jesus, not so much as a tempting, but a testing.

.....So why did the test that Jesus had to endure have to take place in the wilderness? Because Jesus had to be alone. His task had to come to Him, and God had spoken to Him. He had to think and ponder as to how He was to attempt the task which God had given Him to do. He had to get things straight in His mind before He started out on His mission, and He had to be alone to do this.

.....How many times do we often go wrong simply because we first never try to be alone with God, and to receive the instructions for what He has called us to do. There are certain things today which every man has to work out alone, with God. And, there are times when no one else's advice is any good to him. Such times is when a man has to stop acting, and start thinking. We all would and could make less mistakes in life today if we would just set aside the time, as Jesus did, to be alone with God. So please, take some time out of your day today, to be alone with Him.
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The World's Struggle Concerning One God!

.....Great opposition has always existed among the major faiths of Islam, Judaism and traditional Christianity. Oddly enough, all of them sprang from the same roots.

.....Today, as in times past, great conflict exists between Judaism and Islam even though both claim to worship the God of Abraham. Most of these people also claim Abraham as their forefather. Much conflict exists between Judaism and traditional Christianity, yet both claim to worship the same God.

.....Why such confusion? If there is one God, then all of them cannot be right. Who is right? As we go along, you will begin to see why there has been so much religious confusion and disagreement.

.....Much of the Islamic world is looking for a leader to come and deliver them from the oppression of the outside world, especially the United States and her allies—Israel in particular.

.....A prophesied “Mahdi” is to return to restore justice to the world. This leader is to carry the name of Muhammad as part of his own, but he will not be as great as Muhammad. This Mahdi is to appear at a time of severe oppression, unite the Muslims, and bring peace and justice to the world. Some Muslims believe this Mahdi, along with the Prophet Jesus, who is also to appear at the end of time, will lead believers to victory over the infidels.

.....Another irony, of far greater significance and interest, is one that also sheds light on this end-time. It comes from the conflicting teaching of the Jewish faith with that of traditional Christianity concerning the Biblical teaching of a Messiah.

.....The Jewish people have long believed that a Messiah would come to deliver their people and establish a new kingdom that will reign on this earth. Although this belief has varied through time, it has basically remained the same. Some of this will be addressed more fully as we continue.

.....Today, there are some differences among Jewish teachings concerning this subject.

.....The Reformed Jewish teaching believes in a Utopian Age, sometimes called the “Messianic Age,” instead of an actual Messiah.

.....Jewish belief is very similar to that of the Orthodox in that the Messiah is believed to be a human being, but not divine. They believe he will restore the Jewish kingdom and extend his righteous rule over all the earth, executing judgment and
righting all wrongs.

.....Through time, the Jewish people have longed for this prophesied Messiah to come. Today, many still look for his coming. Judaism does not accept that the Jesus of the New Testament is that Messiah, as those in traditional Christianity profess.

.....Traditional Christianity believes that Jesus is the Messiah spoken of in the Old Testament but His purpose is different than that spoken of in the Old Testament concerning establishing a kingdom. Judaism and traditional Christianity believe part of the Bible story, but they can’t reconcile their differences. Is there an answer?

.....Yes! It is quite ironic that these faiths can’t put it together, for in doing so, they would learn from each other. Rather than rely on what has been handed down as a matter of traditional belief among each group from generation to generation, it is wise to focus on what the Bible has to say on the subject. The Bible tells a story that is plain and straightforward, but religious paradigms have imprisoned people in traditional teachings. As a result, their minds are closed; they are blind to the plain truth as it is written. By looking at two prophecies in the Old Testament, regarding a Messiah, it will become clear why Jews and Christians interpret these verses differently. Both groups are in error, albeit each group has part of the story. Each group holds a vital key that the other needs.

.....Only when these two groups are able to acknowledge their misinterpretation will they be able to reconcile their differences. Prophecies say they will reconcile. These same prophecies also tell when they will do it.
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The Tithe

.....There is much manipulation when it comes to submissiveness in tithing. One of the greatest misuses of scripture is in regard to giving. There is no easy way to address this issue. Let me preface by saying the Church cannot function without finances. And Ministries should be partakers for their service to the body. This is in reference to the Old Covenant order. When the children of Israel brought their first-fruits into the priesthood, the priests shared a part or it because they had no inheritance, Numbers 18: 24. God has ordained it to be so, 1 Corinthians 9:13-14.

.....God is not poor nor poverty minded. Vows of poverty and suffering for the cause of Christ when used to achieve some merit or make others feel guilty is unscriptural. On the other hand, making unfounded promises that God wants to make everyone rich or that not giving will bring a curse against people is also unscriptural. Malachi 3 has some principle meaning, but the material withholding of finances will not initiate a curse. Those who are in Christ have been redeemed from all curses. According to vs. 3 and vs. 4, the Lord was looking for an offering of righteousness. This was prophetically speaking about the New Covenant experience when His people would be purged, (cleansed once and for all).

.....As far as the Lord's will is concerned, the prosperity of the Soul is the most important. This kind of prosperity comes only from a knowledge of the riches of Christ, 3 John vs. 2. Much of what ministers call wealth comes either by wise decisions or over-emphasizing the prosperity message. There is a constant barrage of messages associating prosperity with personal, sacrificial giving. The beneficiary of such giving is usually the one who claims the Lord requires it. He or she then appears prosperous, convincing everyone that their prosperity is proof that such giving works. Again, I am not discrediting the principle of sowing and reaping, only those who manipulate it. Jesus ended the curse for all men who believe on Him. Although sowing and reaping is a valid principle, "No Man" has the right to even insinuate a curse on those who do not give their money. The law of the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus supersedes "All Law!"

.....The word Tithe means tenth. You may be surprised to learn that God did not initiate tithing. Abraham did when he first tithed to, that's right, Melchizedek, in Genesis 4: 20. Before I go on, please, hear my heart. All I am trying to do here is correct some things we all have taught, and have been taught. Once I enlighten you to this, you must make your own decisions about what truth is to you. If you will listen to the Spirit of God, He will show you fact from fiction.

.....Once Abraham tithed, it was used as an example in the requirement in Mosaic Law. Even though the principle is sound, the Tithe in the New Covenant has changed. You must hear this: Giving money does not move God. It is the giving of one's self. In the New Covenant, Jesus is the Tithe. He is the first fruits. This term is used over 10 times in Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers, as offering requirements for various things. The principle of giving 10% "First" of any income was initiated there. Now today, Christ is in us and we have the first fruits of the Spirit, Romans 8: 23, who is Christ, 1 Corinthians 15: 20, 23.

.....So, we are a kind of first fruits of His creatures, James 1:18. The New Covenant tithe is the redeemed ones who are virgin or pure in their worship and follow the Lamb, which is in the death and sacrifice of the Lord, wherever He takes them, Revelation 14: 4.

.....Tithing today is twofold - It is the worship of the "Christ" Spirit in us to God, and the giving to the ministry of Christ on the Earth, Hebrews 7: 8. Paul said, " He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. As a man purposes in his heart, so let him give, not grudgingly, or of necessity. For God loves a cheerful giver."
2 Corinthians 9: 6-7. Bountiful grace supplies, and then multiplies the seed sown, this is what increases the fruit of righteousness, vs. 10. No one can pay tithes in a New Covenant relationship, because they have already been paid through Christ. God is our Father, not our landlord. Any motivation of payment to God, including service, forces Him outside of grace, to then give us what He owes us, which is nothing.

So you may ask, How do I tithe today?

.....First understand your worship of God is your tithe to Him. Material giving, in whatever form, is simply an expression of that worship. Since Abraham started tithing, let's look at what took place back then. We see in Genesis 14: 18, Melchizedek serving Abraham, whose name was Abram back then, bread and wine. He then blessed Abraham and God. Abraham then responded by tithing. So we tithe in response to the revelation of Christ's life given for us and to us, as bread and wine, by those ministers who preach Christ today.

If we will re-prioritize this whole system of giving, making Jesus Lord of the tithe, giving will increase and the tenth as we say will seldom be mentioned.

.....If you want to talk about "getting credit" for tithing, let us look at Levi. He received credit for tithing even before he was born, because of Abraham, Hebrews 7: 9-10. It says in Galatians 3: 29, "If you be Christ's, then are you Abraham's seed and heirs according to the promise." Understand this, You are now not under obligation to give, you are "Free to Give." Once one sees their inheritance, it becomes easy! The mindset that previous said that the tenth belongs to God, now has the understanding that everything we have, including ourselves, belongs to God. If we choose to continue to approach God by percentages alone, we will always be found lacking.

.....For now, until we learn the proper way to tithe, and what it actually means, we will stay poor. Spiritually, Mentally, and Physically. How can we truly experience freedom, "Freedom In Christ," and lead other to the same truth, if we continue to push Man's created system, portraying it to be God's.

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