A story was told of a man who was living a sinful life. He was into drinking, smoking, womanising, cheating, lying and doing all kinds of evil, godless stuff. He had a dream. In the dream he had an accident and died and was taken to hell. When he arrived at the entrance, there was a party going on. People were drinking and smoking and there were pretty girls all around. Then he woke up and he said to himself, "Oh! hell is not that bad after all." He then went on to continue to live a sinful and godless life.
Then he met with an accident after one of his drinking party and died instantly. He was taken to hell and was tortured by fire and eaten by worms. He screamed and cried out, "This was not what I saw". A demon came by and told him, "What you saw before in your dream was the marketing department of hell".
Moral of the story
Do not be deceived to think that hell is not real and sins will not be judged.
Psalms 9:17 The wicked shall be turned into hell, And all the nations that forget God.
Matthew 5
29 If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell.
30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell.
Matthew 10
28 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
Gal 5: 19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
“Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them”
2 Kings 6:8-23
We are in a spiritual war. Although it is spiritual and unseen by the naked eye it is nevertheless a very real and fierce war. Much is at stake; not just material things but the souls of men and women, children and youth. We, the church of the living God must rise up to stand our ground and fight. Our enemies are not flesh and blood but they are demonic spirits in the spiritual realm. Our weapons are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds.
In this spiritual war we must remember that our King has the highest authority and He has defeated our real enemies. He is our “David” who has defeated Goliath. We fight with His authority and from His victory. It is a war that the end is already determined, we win!
In 2 Kings 6:8-23, we learn some keys to war in victory. The enemy of Israel, the king of Syria, was making plans to attack Israel. But every of his plans were foiled. The king thought that someone from his camp has been a traitor. But they told the king that none of them were traitors but that Elisha the prophet, by divine revelations tells the king of Israel what the king plans/speaks in his bedroom.
The first key for victory over our enemies is having an intimate prayer life with God. We need to be connected to the God who knows all things and receive from Him revelations. There is no short cut to this. We as His people must develop intimacy with Him. This includes thanksgiving, praise, worship, prayer, obedience to His word etc. We must be diligent to study His Word to know His heart and His ways and be familiar with His voice and visions. Elisha like Elijah, his spiritual father, is one who “stands in the presence of the Lord”. This speaks about him delighting in God’s presence and always being with Him, walking with Him and obeying Him.
The second key is that we must immediately obey what He tells us. The king of Israel takes immediate actions to do as Elisha says. In doing so Israel was delivered from the attacks of the Syrians again and again.
The third key is that we must not be fearful but have faith in God that “those who are with us are more than those who are with them”. When Elisha’s servant saw the great army of Syrians surrounding the city where they were he was filled with fear. Elisha on the other hand was in perfect peace. That’s when he told his servant, "Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them." Truly, If God is for us who can be against us! With God on our side we are the majority. The angels of the Lord encamp around those who fear Him! Elisha had such great confidence. That I believe is because he knew the promises of God and trusts in them.
The fourth key to victory is prayer for our youth. We need to pray for revelation for those who are young, both in faith and in age. Elisha prayed for the young servant, "LORD, I pray, open his eyes that he may see." Then the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. Elisha had faith but the young man needs to see to believe. The younger generations of believers need to grow strong in faith. They need those who are more experienced in God, who had walked with God, who knows God’s heart, God’s ways and God’s voice to mentor them, to disciple them and to pray for them. Elisha’s prayer for the young servant was immediately answered by the Lord and he saw an army of horses and chariots of fire all around them to protect them and to fight for them.
The fifth key to victory is also prayer, to pray against our enemies. Elisha asked God to strike them with blindness. "Strike this people, I pray, with blindness." And He struck them with blindness according to the word of Elisha. God blinds our enemies to change them. He did that to Saul, the then enemy of the church who was on the road to Damascus to arrest Christians to put them in prison. Our prayer binds the power of our enemies and paralyses them.
The sixth key to victory is also prayer, to pray blessings for our enemies. Elisha then prayed to God to open their eyes. "LORD, open the eyes of these men, that they may see." And the LORD opened their eyes, and they saw. Elisha then asked God to open their eyes. He did the same for Saul and instructed Ananias to pray for Paul’s eyes to be opened.
The seventh key to victory is to bless our enemies with good deeds. Elisha then instructed the king of Israel to set food and water before them. The king prepared a great feast for them before sending them home. Then he prepared a great feast for them; and after they ate and drank, he sent them away and they went to their master.
The result of all that was, “So the bands of Syrian raiders came no more into the land of Israel.” Through Elisha’s faith, prayers, wisdom and love and the king’s obedience to God’s instruction through Elisha, the Syrians were defeated and they no longer were Israel’s enemy.
The church is in a spiritual battle. We are not fighting against people but spiritual forces of darkness. We must engage. We must fight. But the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but MIGHTY IN GOD. Let’s arise and fight, arise and build. Let’s pray and obey. Let’s pray some more and bless our enemies. We are on the victory side. Those who are with us and more than those who are with them.
2 Kings 6
8 Now the king of Syria was making war against Israel; and he consulted with his servants, saying, "My camp will be in such and such a place."9 And the man of God sent to the king of Israel, saying, "Beware that you do not pass this place, for the Syrians are coming down there."10 Then the king of Israel sent someone to the place of which the man of God had told him. Thus he warned him, and he was watchful there, not just once or twice.
11 Therefore the heart of the king of Syria was greatly troubled by this thing; and he called his servants and said to them, "Will you not show me which of us is for the king of Israel?"
12 And one of his servants said, "None, my lord, O king; but Elisha, the prophet who is in Israel, tells the king of Israel the words that you speak in your bedroom."
13 So he said, "Go and see where he is, that I may send and get him."
And it was told him, saying, "Surely he is in Dothan."
14 Therefore he sent horses and chariots and a great army there, and they came by night and surrounded the city.15 And when the servant of the man of God arose early and went out, there was an army, surrounding the city with horses and chariots. And his servant said to him, "Alas, my master! What shall we do?"
16 So he answered, "Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them."17 And Elisha prayed, and said, "LORD, I pray, open his eyes that he may see." Then the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.18 So when the Syrians came down to him, Elisha prayed to the LORD, and said, "Strike this people, I pray, with blindness." And He struck them with blindness according to the word of Elisha.
19 Now Elisha said to them, "This is not the way, nor is this the city. Follow me, and I will bring you to the man whom you seek." But he led them to Samaria.
20 So it was, when they had come to Samaria, that Elisha said, "LORD, open the eyes of these men, that they may see." And the LORD opened their eyes, and they saw; and there they were, inside Samaria!
21 Now when the king of Israel saw them, he said to Elisha, "My father, shall I kill them? Shall I kill them?"
22 But he answered, "You shall not kill them. Would you kill those whom you have taken captive with your sword and your bow? Set food and water before them, that they may eat and drink and go to their master."23 Then he prepared a great feast for them; and after they ate and drank, he sent them away and they went to their master. So the bands of Syrian raiders came no more into the land of Israel.
We are in a spiritual war. Although it is spiritual and unseen by the naked eye it is nevertheless a very real and fierce war. Much is at stake; not just material things but the souls of men and women, children and youth. We, the church of the living God must rise up to stand our ground and fight. Our enemies are not flesh and blood but they are demonic spirits in the spiritual realm. Our weapons are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds.
In this spiritual war we must remember that our King has the highest authority and He has defeated our real enemies. He is our “David” who has defeated Goliath. We fight with His authority and from His victory. It is a war that the end is already determined, we win!
In 2 Kings 6:8-23, we learn some keys to war in victory. The enemy of Israel, the king of Syria, was making plans to attack Israel. But every of his plans were foiled. The king thought that someone from his camp has been a traitor. But they told the king that none of them were traitors but that Elisha the prophet, by divine revelations tells the king of Israel what the king plans/speaks in his bedroom.
The first key for victory over our enemies is having an intimate prayer life with God. We need to be connected to the God who knows all things and receive from Him revelations. There is no short cut to this. We as His people must develop intimacy with Him. This includes thanksgiving, praise, worship, prayer, obedience to His word etc. We must be diligent to study His Word to know His heart and His ways and be familiar with His voice and visions. Elisha like Elijah, his spiritual father, is one who “stands in the presence of the Lord”. This speaks about him delighting in God’s presence and always being with Him, walking with Him and obeying Him.
The second key is that we must immediately obey what He tells us. The king of Israel takes immediate actions to do as Elisha says. In doing so Israel was delivered from the attacks of the Syrians again and again.
The third key is that we must not be fearful but have faith in God that “those who are with us are more than those who are with them”. When Elisha’s servant saw the great army of Syrians surrounding the city where they were he was filled with fear. Elisha on the other hand was in perfect peace. That’s when he told his servant, "Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them." Truly, If God is for us who can be against us! With God on our side we are the majority. The angels of the Lord encamp around those who fear Him! Elisha had such great confidence. That I believe is because he knew the promises of God and trusts in them.
The fourth key to victory is prayer for our youth. We need to pray for revelation for those who are young, both in faith and in age. Elisha prayed for the young servant, "LORD, I pray, open his eyes that he may see." Then the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. Elisha had faith but the young man needs to see to believe. The younger generations of believers need to grow strong in faith. They need those who are more experienced in God, who had walked with God, who knows God’s heart, God’s ways and God’s voice to mentor them, to disciple them and to pray for them. Elisha’s prayer for the young servant was immediately answered by the Lord and he saw an army of horses and chariots of fire all around them to protect them and to fight for them.
The fifth key to victory is also prayer, to pray against our enemies. Elisha asked God to strike them with blindness. "Strike this people, I pray, with blindness." And He struck them with blindness according to the word of Elisha. God blinds our enemies to change them. He did that to Saul, the then enemy of the church who was on the road to Damascus to arrest Christians to put them in prison. Our prayer binds the power of our enemies and paralyses them.
The sixth key to victory is also prayer, to pray blessings for our enemies. Elisha then prayed to God to open their eyes. "LORD, open the eyes of these men, that they may see." And the LORD opened their eyes, and they saw. Elisha then asked God to open their eyes. He did the same for Saul and instructed Ananias to pray for Paul’s eyes to be opened.
The seventh key to victory is to bless our enemies with good deeds. Elisha then instructed the king of Israel to set food and water before them. The king prepared a great feast for them before sending them home. Then he prepared a great feast for them; and after they ate and drank, he sent them away and they went to their master.
The result of all that was, “So the bands of Syrian raiders came no more into the land of Israel.” Through Elisha’s faith, prayers, wisdom and love and the king’s obedience to God’s instruction through Elisha, the Syrians were defeated and they no longer were Israel’s enemy.
The church is in a spiritual battle. We are not fighting against people but spiritual forces of darkness. We must engage. We must fight. But the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but MIGHTY IN GOD. Let’s arise and fight, arise and build. Let’s pray and obey. Let’s pray some more and bless our enemies. We are on the victory side. Those who are with us and more than those who are with them.
2 Kings 6
8 Now the king of Syria was making war against Israel; and he consulted with his servants, saying, "My camp will be in such and such a place."9 And the man of God sent to the king of Israel, saying, "Beware that you do not pass this place, for the Syrians are coming down there."10 Then the king of Israel sent someone to the place of which the man of God had told him. Thus he warned him, and he was watchful there, not just once or twice.
11 Therefore the heart of the king of Syria was greatly troubled by this thing; and he called his servants and said to them, "Will you not show me which of us is for the king of Israel?"
12 And one of his servants said, "None, my lord, O king; but Elisha, the prophet who is in Israel, tells the king of Israel the words that you speak in your bedroom."
13 So he said, "Go and see where he is, that I may send and get him."
And it was told him, saying, "Surely he is in Dothan."
14 Therefore he sent horses and chariots and a great army there, and they came by night and surrounded the city.15 And when the servant of the man of God arose early and went out, there was an army, surrounding the city with horses and chariots. And his servant said to him, "Alas, my master! What shall we do?"
16 So he answered, "Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them."17 And Elisha prayed, and said, "LORD, I pray, open his eyes that he may see." Then the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.18 So when the Syrians came down to him, Elisha prayed to the LORD, and said, "Strike this people, I pray, with blindness." And He struck them with blindness according to the word of Elisha.
19 Now Elisha said to them, "This is not the way, nor is this the city. Follow me, and I will bring you to the man whom you seek." But he led them to Samaria.
20 So it was, when they had come to Samaria, that Elisha said, "LORD, open the eyes of these men, that they may see." And the LORD opened their eyes, and they saw; and there they were, inside Samaria!
21 Now when the king of Israel saw them, he said to Elisha, "My father, shall I kill them? Shall I kill them?"
22 But he answered, "You shall not kill them. Would you kill those whom you have taken captive with your sword and your bow? Set food and water before them, that they may eat and drink and go to their master."23 Then he prepared a great feast for them; and after they ate and drank, he sent them away and they went to their master. So the bands of Syrian raiders came no more into the land of Israel.
DOMINION - THE GOAL OF YOUR FAITH
Message by PS VOON
SCRIPTURE: 1 Pet 1:3 - 2:15
Acts 28:31 ….preaching the KINGDOM OF GOD & teaching the things which concern the LORD JESUS CHRIST…
1. INTRODUCTION
The book of Acts ends abruptly with this verse which tells us that Paul continued preaching about God’s kingdom and teaching about Jesus.
2. THE KINGDOM OF GOD
The Kingdom of God is where Jesus rules as King and the Gospel of God is not just a passport to heaven but making Jesus KING of our lives, allowing Him to change and transform our lives.
1 Peter 1:9 - The end of your faith – the salvation of your souls.
This means transformation and sanctification of our lives. God wants to see our lives changed and transformed into the image of His Son, Jesus. (Rom 8:29)
There are many things our KING asked us to do and many things we know we should do as subjects of the KING. But often we choose the things that please ourselves rather than please our KING. We choose the path of least tension or resistance. We don’t want too much trouble.
3. LOOK AT THE DIAGRAM - not able to show diagram in here.
A. CREATION – God created us to rule and have dominion.
B. Because of SIN we lost our dominion. Instead there was SHAME, SEPARATION &
SUFFERING.
C. AT THE CROSS - Jesus, in His obedience to the Father, voluntarily took the shame, separation and suffering and won salvation for us. He is exalted to become the KING of the Kingdom of God.
D. THE WORK OF THE CROSS - restored to us the place of authority and dominion that God intended.
E. THE WAY OF THE CROSS – Jesus learnt obedience by the things which He suffered (Heb 5:8). No suffering = No Obedience. God calls us to follow Jesus by willingly choosing the way of the cross as in Luke 9:23; deny self, take up our cross daily to follow Jesus. We do this by voluntarily choosing to bear shame, separation and suffering. To bear the cross = to do God’s will = to suffer for doing right or for obeying God. This includes to love the lost, to love our enemies, to bless those who curse us, to make disciples, to do good, to pray, to fast etc.
4. JESUS CALLS US
a. not just to be saved from hell but to walk the WAY of the CROSS.
b. to rule our own lives, to be under His control, to do His will.
c. to fulfil the GREAT COMMISSION - to be fishers of men, to make disciples
d. to be DOERS and NOT TALKERS
5. THERE WILL BE REWARDS:
Rom 8:17 – …joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we SUFFER WITH HIM then
we may be GLORIFIED WITH HIM
Jam 1:12 – Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved; he will receive the CROWN OF LIFE which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.
This is not the royal crown but the laurels for champions. Your obedience, effort, perseverance, sufferings will be rewarded by the Lord. If we do nothing, we will get nothing.
6. SIX THINGS WE CAN DO - 1 PET 1:3 – 2:15
In the passage we see 6 things that God calls us to be and to do
1. Pinpoint your target – Personal holiness (1:13-15)
2. Live like Pilgrims (1:17) This world is not our home, heaven is our home. Travellers travel light.
3. Be Passionate about the church (1:22). Love each other deeply. We are called to preach and live the Kingdom of God. We are to encourage, stir one another to follow Jesus, to suffer for Him in doing His will.
4. Purge yourself of all kinds of evil. (2:1-3)
5. Live like a Priest (2:9). Do what priests are supposed to do. Declare the praises of God, make known the knowledge and will of God, pray for people as representative of God. Be a priest everywhere NOT just in church.
6. Perform for every authority God has appointed over you (2:13-14). There are basically 4 areas of authority that we are to submit to - Family, Church, Work and Government. Joseph was a man with such a submissive spirit. He obeyed his father and was his father’s favourite. He obeyed Potiphar, the Prison chief and Pharoah and had great favour with them all.
CONCLUSION:
Let us rise up to the call of God for transformation for sanctification to be more and more like Jesus so that we will rule with Him on earth, in all our circumstances and relationships. Let’s embrace the call of God to carry our cross to follow Jesus. Let’s embrace sufferings for Jesus for His Kingdom sake!
QUESTIONS:
Comment on Heb 5:8 – Jesus had to learn obedience by the things he suffered. Do you agree that the measure of true obedience is our willingness to suffer for our obedience? Why?
Do we choose things that please ourselves or please Jesus?
Share some personal experiences of Shame, Separation and Sufferings that you experience in following Jesus and how it has changed your life
After going through the 6 points above share any particular point that especially challenges you and what you need to do to have victory in that area.
SCRIPTURE: 1 Pet 1:3 - 2:15
Acts 28:31 ….preaching the KINGDOM OF GOD & teaching the things which concern the LORD JESUS CHRIST…
1. INTRODUCTION
The book of Acts ends abruptly with this verse which tells us that Paul continued preaching about God’s kingdom and teaching about Jesus.
2. THE KINGDOM OF GOD
The Kingdom of God is where Jesus rules as King and the Gospel of God is not just a passport to heaven but making Jesus KING of our lives, allowing Him to change and transform our lives.
1 Peter 1:9 - The end of your faith – the salvation of your souls.
This means transformation and sanctification of our lives. God wants to see our lives changed and transformed into the image of His Son, Jesus. (Rom 8:29)
There are many things our KING asked us to do and many things we know we should do as subjects of the KING. But often we choose the things that please ourselves rather than please our KING. We choose the path of least tension or resistance. We don’t want too much trouble.
3. LOOK AT THE DIAGRAM - not able to show diagram in here.
A. CREATION – God created us to rule and have dominion.
B. Because of SIN we lost our dominion. Instead there was SHAME, SEPARATION &
SUFFERING.
C. AT THE CROSS - Jesus, in His obedience to the Father, voluntarily took the shame, separation and suffering and won salvation for us. He is exalted to become the KING of the Kingdom of God.
D. THE WORK OF THE CROSS - restored to us the place of authority and dominion that God intended.
E. THE WAY OF THE CROSS – Jesus learnt obedience by the things which He suffered (Heb 5:8). No suffering = No Obedience. God calls us to follow Jesus by willingly choosing the way of the cross as in Luke 9:23; deny self, take up our cross daily to follow Jesus. We do this by voluntarily choosing to bear shame, separation and suffering. To bear the cross = to do God’s will = to suffer for doing right or for obeying God. This includes to love the lost, to love our enemies, to bless those who curse us, to make disciples, to do good, to pray, to fast etc.
4. JESUS CALLS US
a. not just to be saved from hell but to walk the WAY of the CROSS.
b. to rule our own lives, to be under His control, to do His will.
c. to fulfil the GREAT COMMISSION - to be fishers of men, to make disciples
d. to be DOERS and NOT TALKERS
5. THERE WILL BE REWARDS:
Rom 8:17 – …joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we SUFFER WITH HIM then
we may be GLORIFIED WITH HIM
Jam 1:12 – Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved; he will receive the CROWN OF LIFE which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.
This is not the royal crown but the laurels for champions. Your obedience, effort, perseverance, sufferings will be rewarded by the Lord. If we do nothing, we will get nothing.
6. SIX THINGS WE CAN DO - 1 PET 1:3 – 2:15
In the passage we see 6 things that God calls us to be and to do
1. Pinpoint your target – Personal holiness (1:13-15)
2. Live like Pilgrims (1:17) This world is not our home, heaven is our home. Travellers travel light.
3. Be Passionate about the church (1:22). Love each other deeply. We are called to preach and live the Kingdom of God. We are to encourage, stir one another to follow Jesus, to suffer for Him in doing His will.
4. Purge yourself of all kinds of evil. (2:1-3)
5. Live like a Priest (2:9). Do what priests are supposed to do. Declare the praises of God, make known the knowledge and will of God, pray for people as representative of God. Be a priest everywhere NOT just in church.
6. Perform for every authority God has appointed over you (2:13-14). There are basically 4 areas of authority that we are to submit to - Family, Church, Work and Government. Joseph was a man with such a submissive spirit. He obeyed his father and was his father’s favourite. He obeyed Potiphar, the Prison chief and Pharoah and had great favour with them all.
CONCLUSION:
Let us rise up to the call of God for transformation for sanctification to be more and more like Jesus so that we will rule with Him on earth, in all our circumstances and relationships. Let’s embrace the call of God to carry our cross to follow Jesus. Let’s embrace sufferings for Jesus for His Kingdom sake!
QUESTIONS:
Comment on Heb 5:8 – Jesus had to learn obedience by the things he suffered. Do you agree that the measure of true obedience is our willingness to suffer for our obedience? Why?
Do we choose things that please ourselves or please Jesus?
Share some personal experiences of Shame, Separation and Sufferings that you experience in following Jesus and how it has changed your life
After going through the 6 points above share any particular point that especially challenges you and what you need to do to have victory in that area.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
The root of sin - Iniquity
Very often we equate iniquity with sin. But it is more than sin.
Someone has defined it as the root of sin.
If there is iniquity in your heart you will be bent towards sin.
A definition of iniquity by Genaveve Carlene Welch - It means preversness, to be bent or crooked, to be wrung out of course! It signifies not merely that which is wrong, but the tendency to do wrong! This lies in the disposition and nature and not merely in an act of breaking the law. It is nothing more or less then the spirit and nature of the Devil working in the children of disobediance. John.8:44..Eph.2:1-3..1John.3:8 and Rev.12:9...
Any trace of self will will become an opening for the devil to tempt us to sin against God.
If we do not deny ourself and take up our cross daily to follow Jesus, the devil will tempt us to seek our self will in opposition to God's will. Every time the devil succeed to deceive us to think that self will is better than God's will, we have fallen into his temptation and sinned against God. We have opened a door to him to control us or come in to attack us.
We can trust THE LORD 100%!
Why?
He is the CREATOR OF ALL THINGS. He only knows what's best!
He loves us so much that he sent His Son to die for us. Can't we trust Him?
He alone is ALL WISE! Our human wisdom is so minute and finite BUT His wisdom is infinite and great!
So let us give our hearts 100% to the Lord and not yield ourselves to selfish desires. We will truly be blessed by Him!
Someone has defined it as the root of sin.
If there is iniquity in your heart you will be bent towards sin.
A definition of iniquity by Genaveve Carlene Welch - It means preversness, to be bent or crooked, to be wrung out of course! It signifies not merely that which is wrong, but the tendency to do wrong! This lies in the disposition and nature and not merely in an act of breaking the law. It is nothing more or less then the spirit and nature of the Devil working in the children of disobediance. John.8:44..Eph.2:1-3..1John.3:8 and Rev.12:9...
In Ez 28:15 the devil was described as "You were perfect in your ways from the day you were created, Till iniquity was found in you."
Iniquity was found in the devil. What was the devil's iniquity?
It was his prideful self will. 5 times he says "I will" in Isaiah 14.
He wanted to be exalted above God Himself!
12 " How you are fallen from heaven,
O Lucifer, son of the morning!
How you are cut down to the ground,
You who weakened the nations!
13 For you have said in your heart:
' I will ascend into heaven,
I will exalt my throne above the stars of God;
I will also sit on the mount of the congregation
On the farthest sides of the north;
14 I will ascend above the heights of the clouds,
I will be like the Most High.'
15 Yet you shall be brought down to Sheol,
To the lowest depths of the Pit.
Any trace of self will will become an opening for the devil to tempt us to sin against God.
If we do not deny ourself and take up our cross daily to follow Jesus, the devil will tempt us to seek our self will in opposition to God's will. Every time the devil succeed to deceive us to think that self will is better than God's will, we have fallen into his temptation and sinned against God. We have opened a door to him to control us or come in to attack us.
We can trust THE LORD 100%!
Why?
He is the CREATOR OF ALL THINGS. He only knows what's best!
He loves us so much that he sent His Son to die for us. Can't we trust Him?
He alone is ALL WISE! Our human wisdom is so minute and finite BUT His wisdom is infinite and great!
So let us give our hearts 100% to the Lord and not yield ourselves to selfish desires. We will truly be blessed by Him!
BEING PILLARS IN THE KING’S PALACE (Pt 1)
SCRIPTURE: 1 Tim 3:1-15
INTRODUCTION:
Everything that can be shaken will be shaken so that only what cannot be shaken will remain (Heb 12:27).
God’s house built upon CHRIST as the foundation cannot be shaken because Jesus, the Rock of all ages is the ETERNAL foundation, the Beginning and the end. If you and I are pillars, built upon CHRIST, in God’s house, we will be safe and secure for all eternity! We will also be serving His eternal purposes.
THE KING’S PALACE
1 Tim 3:15 …I write so that you may know how you ought to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.
THE KING’S PALACE = HIS CHURCH
1. House of GOD or Household of God - Not house of idols
It is a Spiritual house, not a physical house or building. Only those who are born again in Christ can become His children who are fitted into His house.
2. Church of the Living God
Church = the called out ones, believers who are called out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Pet 2:9) a people belonging to Him who is alive. We are the church of the living God!
3. Pillar and Ground of THE TRUTH
QUESTION: Share about some qualities and functions of pillars of a building.
The House of God is the pillar and ground of Truth. What does that mean to you?
· PILLAR OF THE TRUTH
Pillars are visible and absolutely necessary. If pillars are taken away, the building will collapse.
They carry loads/weights down to the foundation. They are strong and support the building which provides shelter. The bigger the building the more pillars are required. Every pillar carries the load around them.
Foundation on the other hand is not visible but an absolute necessity. Jesus Christ the Truth is our foundation on which the church is built upon.
The church needs pillars. We need to be pillars of truth in the house of God - STANDING UP FOR and BEARING WITNESS TO God’s truth so that people can see the Truth, JESUS, in us and the Gospel lived out by us. Then they can come to Jesus through us.
Pillars can be men and women. Eg. Ps 144:12 refers to daughters as pillars in the palace.
· GROUND OF THE TRUTH
The church is the ground of Truth = a defender and protector of truth. The household of the living God must stand up to PROTECT THE TRUTH OF GOD and ensure it is not compromised.
READ AND COMMENT ON 1 TIM 3:1
This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work.
QUESTION: What conclusion can you draw from it?
“This is a faithful saying” = YOU CAN TRUST THIS TRUTH – Jesus would say, “TRULY, TRULY, I
say to you”
“If a man” = any man
“Desires” = reach out after, long for, to stretch oneself, diligently seek to qualify oneself to serve God
Deep inward drive to equip oneself to be of greater use to God
“Position” = NOT A TITLE – it is an office to function in a work / ministry, to serve in a greater capacity
“Bishop” = 3 interchangeable words as below:-
§ Overseer – to oversee, be in charge, lead, supervise, direct
§ Pastor – shepherd, care, feed, nurture, guard, lead, direct
§ Elder – mature, exemplary, wise, experienced, to discern , to discipline
“Good work” = an excellent task
God wants to use each one of us to be an example, a servant and a leader (someone who serves and influences others towards God)
QUESTION: Do you have the desire to be a “SERVANT LEADER” in His church?
THE QUALITIES OF A BISHOP
Being a leader in His house is a great privilege BUT it is also a great responsibility.
1 Tim 3:2 - A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teachIt is serving the KING OF KINGS!
QUESTION:
Discuss the qualities mentioned.
What do you observe about these qualifications?
Do you agree that CHARACTER in a leader is much more important than SKILLS?
Blameless = above reproach, unable to find fault with, no charge should be brought against him, even if blamed will not be guilty. Note: Christians, especially leaders who are dominated by their flesh have been blamed for all kinds of things, and they have become stumbling blocks to non-believers
Husband of one wife = faithfulness for life to one’s spouse to reflect Christ’s love for the church
Temperate = vigilant, watchful, not careless, not sleepy, or blurr, “keep our head in all situations”, exercise sober sensible judgment in all things, stay cool and collected at all times, able to govern oneself at all times, self controlled, disciplined, stay sharp and perceptive at all times
Sober minded = clear mind, wise mind, spirit of power love and sound mind.
His thought life is Phil 4:8. He is not easily swayed or waver in his mind, not easily deceived or manipulated,
makes right and wise judgments.
Good behaviour = well behaved, polite, considerate, gentle, kind, patient, gracious, approachable, friendly, sociable, respectful, humble in speech, Not selfish, not proud/boastful/arrogant, not rude, not impatient, not harsh,
does not embarrass others in front of them, not critical or judgmental.
Hospitable = opening our homes to welcome new people and minister to their needs
§ Firstly opening of hearts to others – welcome, accept, respect, appreciate, refresh, serve, bless them
· Giving a warm handshake with a affirming smile to someone – especially new people
· Stopping to take time to talk, to ask about them, to get to know them, to be genuinely interested in them; asking if they need anything that you can help them with
· Looking at the interests of others to find out if they can join you for lunch; join your LG etc.
Able to teach = to do this, one has to know and experience the Word. There is no short cut.
On top of daily QT, one have to study the Word, take notes when others teach / preach,
attend classes, conferences, read books, listen to CDs, DVDs etc.
Always learning and growing and seeking to be an example to your students in every way especially in
DOING the Word!
CONCLUSION:
Be AGENTS of CHANGE by desiring to be a PILLAR IN HIS HOUSE, a SERVANT LEADER FOR JESUS.
INTRODUCTION:
Everything that can be shaken will be shaken so that only what cannot be shaken will remain (Heb 12:27).
God’s house built upon CHRIST as the foundation cannot be shaken because Jesus, the Rock of all ages is the ETERNAL foundation, the Beginning and the end. If you and I are pillars, built upon CHRIST, in God’s house, we will be safe and secure for all eternity! We will also be serving His eternal purposes.
THE KING’S PALACE
1 Tim 3:15 …I write so that you may know how you ought to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.
THE KING’S PALACE = HIS CHURCH
1. House of GOD or Household of God - Not house of idols
It is a Spiritual house, not a physical house or building. Only those who are born again in Christ can become His children who are fitted into His house.
2. Church of the Living God
Church = the called out ones, believers who are called out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Pet 2:9) a people belonging to Him who is alive. We are the church of the living God!
3. Pillar and Ground of THE TRUTH
QUESTION: Share about some qualities and functions of pillars of a building.
The House of God is the pillar and ground of Truth. What does that mean to you?
· PILLAR OF THE TRUTH
Pillars are visible and absolutely necessary. If pillars are taken away, the building will collapse.
They carry loads/weights down to the foundation. They are strong and support the building which provides shelter. The bigger the building the more pillars are required. Every pillar carries the load around them.
Foundation on the other hand is not visible but an absolute necessity. Jesus Christ the Truth is our foundation on which the church is built upon.
The church needs pillars. We need to be pillars of truth in the house of God - STANDING UP FOR and BEARING WITNESS TO God’s truth so that people can see the Truth, JESUS, in us and the Gospel lived out by us. Then they can come to Jesus through us.
Pillars can be men and women. Eg. Ps 144:12 refers to daughters as pillars in the palace.
· GROUND OF THE TRUTH
The church is the ground of Truth = a defender and protector of truth. The household of the living God must stand up to PROTECT THE TRUTH OF GOD and ensure it is not compromised.
READ AND COMMENT ON 1 TIM 3:1
This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work.
QUESTION: What conclusion can you draw from it?
“This is a faithful saying” = YOU CAN TRUST THIS TRUTH – Jesus would say, “TRULY, TRULY, I
say to you”
“If a man” = any man
“Desires” = reach out after, long for, to stretch oneself, diligently seek to qualify oneself to serve God
Deep inward drive to equip oneself to be of greater use to God
“Position” = NOT A TITLE – it is an office to function in a work / ministry, to serve in a greater capacity
“Bishop” = 3 interchangeable words as below:-
§ Overseer – to oversee, be in charge, lead, supervise, direct
§ Pastor – shepherd, care, feed, nurture, guard, lead, direct
§ Elder – mature, exemplary, wise, experienced, to discern , to discipline
“Good work” = an excellent task
God wants to use each one of us to be an example, a servant and a leader (someone who serves and influences others towards God)
QUESTION: Do you have the desire to be a “SERVANT LEADER” in His church?
THE QUALITIES OF A BISHOP
Being a leader in His house is a great privilege BUT it is also a great responsibility.
1 Tim 3:2 - A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teachIt is serving the KING OF KINGS!
QUESTION:
Discuss the qualities mentioned.
What do you observe about these qualifications?
Do you agree that CHARACTER in a leader is much more important than SKILLS?
Blameless = above reproach, unable to find fault with, no charge should be brought against him, even if blamed will not be guilty. Note: Christians, especially leaders who are dominated by their flesh have been blamed for all kinds of things, and they have become stumbling blocks to non-believers
Husband of one wife = faithfulness for life to one’s spouse to reflect Christ’s love for the church
Temperate = vigilant, watchful, not careless, not sleepy, or blurr, “keep our head in all situations”, exercise sober sensible judgment in all things, stay cool and collected at all times, able to govern oneself at all times, self controlled, disciplined, stay sharp and perceptive at all times
Sober minded = clear mind, wise mind, spirit of power love and sound mind.
His thought life is Phil 4:8. He is not easily swayed or waver in his mind, not easily deceived or manipulated,
makes right and wise judgments.
Good behaviour = well behaved, polite, considerate, gentle, kind, patient, gracious, approachable, friendly, sociable, respectful, humble in speech, Not selfish, not proud/boastful/arrogant, not rude, not impatient, not harsh,
does not embarrass others in front of them, not critical or judgmental.
Hospitable = opening our homes to welcome new people and minister to their needs
§ Firstly opening of hearts to others – welcome, accept, respect, appreciate, refresh, serve, bless them
· Giving a warm handshake with a affirming smile to someone – especially new people
· Stopping to take time to talk, to ask about them, to get to know them, to be genuinely interested in them; asking if they need anything that you can help them with
· Looking at the interests of others to find out if they can join you for lunch; join your LG etc.
Able to teach = to do this, one has to know and experience the Word. There is no short cut.
On top of daily QT, one have to study the Word, take notes when others teach / preach,
attend classes, conferences, read books, listen to CDs, DVDs etc.
Always learning and growing and seeking to be an example to your students in every way especially in
DOING the Word!
CONCLUSION:
Be AGENTS of CHANGE by desiring to be a PILLAR IN HIS HOUSE, a SERVANT LEADER FOR JESUS.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
OUR MIGHTY WEAPON OF WAR – FASTING!
SCRIPTURE: JOEL 2:12-13, 15, MATT 6:1-17
INTRODUCTION:
A prophetic word to our nation:
The FASTING & PRAYER of the saints in Malaysia has kept that nation from the judgment of God.
This is the 11th year of the national 40 days of prayer and fasting. We MUST rise up to continue fasting and praying as we are in critical times. God’s trumpet call has sounded loud and clear. We must humble ourselves and ask God for mercy, for forgiveness of our sins and the sins of our nation. (2 Chron 7:14)
‘WHEN YOU’ not ‘IF YOU’:
In Matt 6 the Lord Jesus taught on key principles His disciples need to live by to be victorious in the Kingdom of God, among which are 3 great duties to be practised. Jesus in teaching on these 3 areas, said:
WHEN you give … v 2;
WHEN you pray … v 5;
WHEN you fast … v 6
Jesus did not say, IF you give… pray… fast… but WHEN you give… pray… fast…This means
1. It is not an option.
2. It ought to be done.
Jesus expected all His disciples to give, pray and …FAST regularly. They are to be practised from the heart, with humility and in honour of the Father who sees in secret and rewards openly!
Most Christians agree that as disciples of Christ we cannot afford NOT to give or pray. But when it comes to FASTING (an area much neglected…), we seem to think that it is an option. God has meant fasting to be a lifestyle of His children. Let’s seek to take hold of this neglected area and use this powerful weapon to see great breakthroughs in our lives and see the advancement of His Kingdom.
WHAT IS FASTING?
It is abstaining from food for spiritual purposes. It is a form of spiritual discipline, a form of mourning and humbling of self.
BENEFITS OF FASTING:
1. Cleanses our bodies of harmful toxins. A natural way towards healing and health
2. Brings us into a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. Increases our spiritual sensitivity.
3. Dethrones the flesh and enthrones the SPIRIT!
4. Releases the POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT! Eg of Jesus (Lk 4:14)
5. A fasting lifestyle that honours God will break poverty from our lives.
6. Breaks yokes, demonic bondages and addictions (Isa 58:6, Matt 17:21)
7. Brings divine intervention, deliverance and victory (2 Chron 20:1-30, Esther 4)
8. Judgement of God can be averted. (Jonah 3:10)
MY PERSONAL EXPEREINCE
As an encouragement – 9 Aug 2011 is my 5th day of liquid fast. I’ve experienced many breakthroughs. I feel strong spiritually and physically. I’m experiencing His joy and peace in a wonderful way. Prayer comes so easily and I’m amazed at what the Lord is directing me to pray. Also the Bible comes alive like never before. I’m receiving very enlightening revelations from Him and His Word. Praise the Lord!
CONCLUSION: Be AGENTS of CHANGE!
Let us commit to fast and pray during these 40 days!
Do a fast that means something to you. These is always the element of “sacrifice and suffering” to show our humility and sorrow for our sins and the sins of our nation.
INTRODUCTION:
A prophetic word to our nation:
The FASTING & PRAYER of the saints in Malaysia has kept that nation from the judgment of God.
This is the 11th year of the national 40 days of prayer and fasting. We MUST rise up to continue fasting and praying as we are in critical times. God’s trumpet call has sounded loud and clear. We must humble ourselves and ask God for mercy, for forgiveness of our sins and the sins of our nation. (2 Chron 7:14)
‘WHEN YOU’ not ‘IF YOU’:
In Matt 6 the Lord Jesus taught on key principles His disciples need to live by to be victorious in the Kingdom of God, among which are 3 great duties to be practised. Jesus in teaching on these 3 areas, said:
WHEN you give … v 2;
WHEN you pray … v 5;
WHEN you fast … v 6
Jesus did not say, IF you give… pray… fast… but WHEN you give… pray… fast…This means
1. It is not an option.
2. It ought to be done.
Jesus expected all His disciples to give, pray and …FAST regularly. They are to be practised from the heart, with humility and in honour of the Father who sees in secret and rewards openly!
Most Christians agree that as disciples of Christ we cannot afford NOT to give or pray. But when it comes to FASTING (an area much neglected…), we seem to think that it is an option. God has meant fasting to be a lifestyle of His children. Let’s seek to take hold of this neglected area and use this powerful weapon to see great breakthroughs in our lives and see the advancement of His Kingdom.
WHAT IS FASTING?
It is abstaining from food for spiritual purposes. It is a form of spiritual discipline, a form of mourning and humbling of self.
BENEFITS OF FASTING:
1. Cleanses our bodies of harmful toxins. A natural way towards healing and health
2. Brings us into a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. Increases our spiritual sensitivity.
3. Dethrones the flesh and enthrones the SPIRIT!
4. Releases the POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT! Eg of Jesus (Lk 4:14)
5. A fasting lifestyle that honours God will break poverty from our lives.
6. Breaks yokes, demonic bondages and addictions (Isa 58:6, Matt 17:21)
7. Brings divine intervention, deliverance and victory (2 Chron 20:1-30, Esther 4)
8. Judgement of God can be averted. (Jonah 3:10)
MY PERSONAL EXPEREINCE
As an encouragement – 9 Aug 2011 is my 5th day of liquid fast. I’ve experienced many breakthroughs. I feel strong spiritually and physically. I’m experiencing His joy and peace in a wonderful way. Prayer comes so easily and I’m amazed at what the Lord is directing me to pray. Also the Bible comes alive like never before. I’m receiving very enlightening revelations from Him and His Word. Praise the Lord!
CONCLUSION: Be AGENTS of CHANGE!
Let us commit to fast and pray during these 40 days!
Do a fast that means something to you. These is always the element of “sacrifice and suffering” to show our humility and sorrow for our sins and the sins of our nation.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)