Meekness is not Weakness

Posted on August 31, 2009 by Timbo

Meekness

This is a word that many have mis-understood. I was one of them. I have thought that meekness was a negative word that meant to show weakness or described a  person who was push-over! Someone who was eaisly taken advantage of. No – I was wrong.

Meekness – when used in scripture – means this:

1.  Gentleness. This is one of the fruits of the spirit. Am I gentle when dealing with others?

2. Good Manners. Gentleness means that you use good manners when around others – including family.

3. Self Discipline. Am I characterized by being a person of Self Discipline. What am I like when no one sees? Do I have physical examples of a life that is not self disciplined with food etc… Do I study to show myself approved unto God – rightly dividing the word of truth? Am I self Disciplined? If not – then meekness is lacking in me – for meekness is strenght under control.

4. Quietly submitting myself to God. Does what I say show my quietness in spirit regarding any issue in life – or am I most often “mouthy” about my perticular circumstances. Do I complain about it alot to others? I am to “be still and know that He is God.”

5. Meekness is not freting over what other evil men do. Am I a person who does not fret because I am still –  and trusting the God who is sovereign? (Ps. 37:1, 3-5,7-8)

6. A meek person will delight in the Lord. They can delight themselves in what God has put before them as a wonderful meal place on the lap of a child. Do I delight in what God has prepaired for me (My business – family – Job – whatever…)  or am I complaining about what is put before me? Am I quiet about it and still? Many christians will fight for more stuff and fail to enjoy what they already  have. MAN – I really need to stop my complaining and moaning. It must offend God.

For more scripture on this read –  Phil. 1:27 – 2:2-4 – 2:14-16 – 2:21

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The Sovereignty of God

Posted on August 26, 2009 by Timbo

Does God pass over some for Salvation?

As taken from John MacArthur’s Study Bible, Sermons, as well as from Unconditional Election written by Earl Blackburn

Compiled with comments by Tim Gowens

 

Before I proceed to write about this most difficult doctrine, I want to state that I currently struggle with this doctrine – perhaps more than any other – but have come to the place where I am trusting God with it. Here are some questions that I have had regarding Predestination, foreknowledge, Election, and being “Called” of God, and the choice of God. I will state the question and answer it according to what the Bible has said. It is up to God to convince the fallen heart of man of anything true. My prayer is that He will bring many to a deeper closer walk of Trust in His perfect sinless state.

1.     How can God Pass over some and choose others and hold the persons who He did not choose accountable for their sin?

2.     If God Elects some and passes over others, how is this Fair? I always thought God was a fair and Just God!

3.     Scripture says that He is not willing for any to die but for all to come to repentance. How does this line up with election?

4.     The Doctrine of Election must not be true because it goes against man’s free will. Does man have a free will?

5.     Isn’t salvation offered to All mankind? Did not God say for us to go into the entire world and preach the Gospel? If predestination and election is accurate, then why should we evangelize, if God has already chosen those who will come to know Him – what’s the point?

6.     Has God limited Himself and His ability to know what man will choose? Is open Theism a valid doctrine?

7.     There are apparently errors in the Bible since scripture seems to teach both opposing views. Is the Bible without error? If so, then how can there be opposing views in scripture?

8.     I have always been taught that God Loves Everybody? How can a loving God predestine anyone to Hell?

9.     Since scripture teaches both the Sovereignty of God and the responsibility of man, should I choose a Side?

10. If the Doctrine of Election is true, then why and how should I evangelize others?

Before I attempt to answer any question regard the doctrine of Election, I want to make some very important points as a platform to spring from. If you disagree with these points, you will only find that you will become angry and frustrated. I know that I certainly did – until I asked God to help me, thru the study of His word. I sought after Him and He answered.  You should consider if you really want to proceed because this is a very difficult subject.

1.     The doctrine of Election and predestination was almost an assumed position in the early church and Paul’s day. It is stated so often as an assumed position with no explanation or apology.  It is most difficult for us now, because we as Americans have been brought up in a society where having a sovereign King is foreign to us. We are the masters of our fate – the captain of the ship, but are we really?

2.      My choice and “Free will” will never be independent of God’s will. God teaches all throughout scripture that He alone is the author of life. (Job, chapters 38-42) How can a clay pot say to the one who made it – “Why did you make me this way?” (Romans 9) I have no right to question anything when it comes to the decisions of a perfect God who makes those decisions from a will that is independent from me. “Why” is completely bound up in His eternal will. That is a place I cannot go – and perhaps can never fully understand. I must trust Him – for the heart of our perfect God is trustworthy.

3.     What I feel or don’t understand does not change the only source of truth – God’s Word! My mind, will and feelings, and nature are completely fallen. It was completely dead before Christ, but now I am alive in Him. (Romans 8) I still have residual fallen nature  – even as a mature child of God.  (Romans 7)

4.     I cannot design God to be something that I have created in my fallen mind. I cannot make God into my own image. He is completely different and higher than all my ways and thoughts. (Is. 55:8-9) I am to bow to Him! He does not have to explain Himself to me. (Job cp 38-42) Ask yourself these questions – “Is my opinion of God more derived from the current modern church teachings and culture  – or is it the result of my personal study of Scripture as taught by the Holy Spirit?”  “Is the image of God that I have biblically Based?”

5.     Because I am corrupted in all my nature, I must be willing to expose myself to the only source that is uncorrupted – Scripture. I must be willing to spend my time studying it – and submitting to it.

6.     This doctrine offends many because it is a direct assault to our pride and ego.

7.     I cannot expect a person who is not a believer to understand this doctrine. Nor can I expect a person who may be a believer – but stuck in his prideful condition, to accept this doctrine. I should expect Persecution to be the end result – since pride is at stake. Pride never dies easily – apart from the work of God in a person’s heart.

 

The Question?

How can God Pass over some for Salvation and choose others while holding the persons who He did not choose accountable for their sin?

The Answer!

God never planned on saving everyone. Otherwise He would have created a Salvation plan that does not include Hell.

Explanation from Scripture

Deut. 10:14-15

14 Behold, the heaven and the heaven of heavens is the LORD’S thy God, the earth also, with all that therein is. 15 Only the LORD had a delight in thy fathers to love them, and he chose their seed after them, even you above all people, as it is this day.

The “you” in vs. 15 is Israel. God chose them before they were ever created – and that for His own purpose. That choice is always completely done without the counsel of anyone or anything and is always with Wisdom. (Prov. 3:19-20)

Matt. 11:27

27 All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.

Matt. 22:14

14 For many are called, but few are chosen.

The call spoken of here is sometimes referred to as the “general call” (or the “external” call)—a summons to repentance and faith that is inherent in the gospel message. This call extends to all who hear the gospel. “Many” hear it; “few” respond (see the many-few comparison in 7:13, 14). Those who respond are the “chosen,” the elect. In the Pauline writings, the word “call” usually refers to God’s irresistible calling extended to the elect alone (Rom. 8:30)—known as the “effectual call” (or the “internal” call). The effectual call is the supernatural drawing of God which Jesus speaks of in John 6:44. Here a general call is in view, and this call extends to all who hear the gospel—this call is the great “whosoever will” of the gospel (cf. Rev. 22:17). Here, then, is the proper balance between human responsibility and divine sovereignty: the “called” who reject the invitation do so willingly, and therefore their exclusion from the kingdom is perfectly just. The “chosen” enter the kingdom only because of the grace of God in choosing and drawing them.

Romans 9: 11- 24

(for the children not yet being born, nor having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works but of Him who calls), 12 it was said to her, “The older shall serve the younger.” 13 As it is written,  “Jacob I have loved, but Esau I have hated.” 14 What shall we say then?  Is there unrighteousness with God? Certainly not! 15 For He says to Moses,  “I will have mercy on whomever I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whomever I will have compassion.” 16 So then it is not of him who wills, nor of him who runs, but of God who shows mercy. 17 For the Scripture says to the Pharaoh, “For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I may show My power in you, and that My name may be declared in all the earth.” 18 Therefore He has mercy on whom He wills, and whom He wills He hardens.

19 You will say to me then, “Why does He still find fault? For  who has resisted His will?” 20 But indeed, O man, who are you to reply against God?  Will the thing formed say to him who formed it, “Why have you made me like this?” 21 Does not the potter have power over the clay, from the same lump to make one vessel for honor and another for dishonor?

22 What if God, wanting to show His wrath and to make His power known, endured with much longsuffering  the vessels of wrath prepared for destruction, 23 and that He might make known the riches of His glory on the vessels of mercy, which He had prepared beforehand for glory, 24 even us whom He called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?

Paul addresses the issue clearly. But notice in verse 19 that he never answers the question “Why” did God choose some and others He passed over – apart from His choice to show Mercy and Wrath. Mercy and Wrath are both just as equally beautiful and perfect – since they come from the Heart of God, and He has the right to demonstrate them  on however He chooses.

Deut. 32:4

He is  the Rock, His work is perfect; For all His ways are justice, A God of truth and without injustice;

Righteous and upright is He.

Mark 13:20

And unless the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake, whom He chose, He shortened the days.

The “elect” could refer to the nation of Israel (cf. Is. 45:4), or those who become Christians during the Tribulation (Rev. 17:14). In either case, God cuts short the days for their benefit.

Romans 11:4-5, 7-8

“I have reserved for Myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.” 5 Even so then, at this present time there is a remnant according to the election of grace.

7 What then? Israel has not obtained what it seeks; but the elect have obtained it, and the rest were  blinded.8 Just as it is written: “God has given them a spirit of stupor, Eyes that they should not see And ears that they should not hear, To this very day.”

If someone is not chosen – not part of the election of Grace, then God causes their eyes to not see, and their ears to not hear. According to Romans 9 vs. 18, He hardens their hearts.

2 Timothy 2:10

10 Therefore I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.

Paul viewed his sufferings for the Lord and for the sake of the Elect. If Election were not part of scripture, then Paul’s suffering was in vain.

James 2:5

Listen, my beloved brethren: Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?

2:5 Has God not chosen. See note on Rom. 8:29; cf. 1 Cor. 1:26–29. the kingdom. Here James intends the kingdom in its present sense of the sphere of salvation—those over whom Christ rules—as well as its future millennial and eternal glory.

Those who will rule with Christ in the millennial age will not be the mighty, wealthy, noble, strong, well educated of this world, (although there is nothing that says He will not use some- but only the elect to the grace of Salvation) but will be characterized by those who are the weak, poor and humble. The high-minded, highly educated by the worlds systems (most often rooted in pride) – will not accept the Sovereign choice of God for it goes against all that he has worked for and pursued – Independence!

Jer. 9:23 says Thus says the Lord:  “Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, Let not the mighty man glory in his might, Nor let the rich man glory in his riches; But  let him who glories glory in this, That he understands and knows Me, That I am the Lord, exercising lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth.  For in these I delight,” says the Lord.

Romans 8:29-30

29 For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also  justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.

8:29 foreknew. Not a reference simply to God’s omniscience—that in eternity past He knew who would come to Christ. Rather, it speaks of a predetermined choice to set His love on us and established an intimate relationship—or His election (cf. Acts 2:23—an inviolable rule of Gr. grammar, called the Granville Sharp rule, equates “predestinated” and “foreknowledge;” see 1 Pet. 1:1, 2, and 1:20—the term must be interpreted the same in both verses). See notes on election in 9:10–24. predestined. Lit. “to mark out, appoint, or determine beforehand.” Those God chooses, He destines for His chosen end—that is, likeness to His Son (see notes on Eph. 1:4, 5, 11). conformed to the image of His Son. The goal of God’s predestined purpose for His own is that they would be made like Jesus Christ. This is the “prize of the upward call” (Phil. 3:14); cf. Eph. 4:13; Col. 1:28; Phil. 3:20, 21; 1 John 3:2). firstborn. The preeminent one, the only one who is the rightful heir (cf. Ps. 89:27; Col. 1:15–18; Rev. 1:5). Jesus Christ is the most notable one among those who have become “brethren” by being made like Him.

8:30 predestined – called. Paul uses the past tense for a future event to stress its certainty (cf. vv. 18, 21; 2 Tim. 2:10).

8:31–39 Paul closes his teaching about the believer’s security in Christ with a crescendo of questions and answers for the concerns his readers might still have. The result is an almost poetic expression of praise for God’s grace in bringing salvation to completion for all who are chosen and believe—a hymn of security.

So… In conclusion to the Question “How can God Pass over some for Salvation and choose others while holding the persons who He did not choose accountable for their sin?

The Answer as I see it is:

1.     God never intended for everyone to be saved. If so, then there would be no Hell, and the doctrine of Salvation would not mention election – it would be completely up to the free will of man.

2.     God is glorified in His wrath just as much as He is in gracefully choosing some for Salvation.

3.     Jesus says to Nicodemus in John 3:8

8 The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
God does His work – and we cannot know whom He has chosen, and when He will do his work – thus we must preach the gospel to all creatures. Jesus didn’t say – Pray this little prayer – walk an isle – etc… This is not the statement that a modern day Preacher would say – but Jesus did. It is attached to the doctrine of Election and the choice of God.

4.      He is  the Rock, His work is perfect; For all His ways are justice, A God of truth and without injustice; Righteous and upright is He. (Deut. 32:4)

I must come to conclude that even though this is hard to accept – that God is perfect and just – and His choice is not unjust. He is trustworthy.

More reading on the subject

The nature of election

1. Election is the work of God from eternity (Eph.1:4,5;2 Thess. 2:13; 2 Tim. 1:9). God’s election did not come into effect after we chose Christ, but before we chose Christ. God’s choice of us preceded our choice of Him and His choice was before the foundation of the world. According to Rev. 17:8 the Lamb’s Book of Life was written before time began.

2. Election is sovereign and unconditional. God did not choose sinners because He saw they would repent and believe (foreseen faith) or in response to any other work they would do; instead He chose sinners to salvation according to His good pleasure (Eph.1:5 and 2:8-9; Rom. 9:11). 1 Peter 1:2 points out that election was “unto” obedience, not because of some act(s) of obedience on the part of sinners.

3. Election concerns individuals (Acts13:48; Rom.9:11).Paul says to the believers in Thessalonica, “knowing, beloved brethren, you election by God,” (1 Thess. 1:4).

4. The final aim of election is God’s glory and it is the work of His delight (Eph.1:4-6). God chose some and passed by others according to His own good pleasure, so that at the last He alone would be glorified (1 Cor. 1:30-31)

5. It is just (Rom. 9:16, 20-21). All that the infinitely holy God of heaven and earth does is just and good. While men in their partiality would choose people because of social status, position, economic state, appearance, etc…, God was not affected by any of these considerations. He did not choose individuals to be recipients of His salvation because of any good or because of any evil He saw in them. He was totally just in His election.

6. Election is not limited to Jews or to any other particular nationality, but extends to people of every race, tribe and language (Rom.9:24). Men may be proud of race, face, place, and grace (as the Jews were), but these things gain no favor with the Almighty. He has His chosen ones in every class and stratum of society, form every nation (Rev. 5:9).

7. The sovereign choosing of specific, unworthy sinners to salvation by God is unchangeable and effectual. The Lord does not add to or delete from His chosen. Their number was immutable fixed in eternity past. All of the elect shall be saved and shall enter into glory at last (Rom. 8:28-30; 2 Tim 2:19) As the Savior has said, “This is the will of the Father who sent me, that of all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day.” ( John 6:39)

8. This doctrine was taught not only by Paul the Apostle, but by the Lord Jesus Christ Himself. As the Savior began His ministry, one of the first sermons He preached was in the synagogue in Nazareth (see Luke 4:16-30). Jesus told of how God passed by all of the widows in Israel during Elijah’s day and sent the prophet to a heathen widow in Zarephath (v.26). What is the if it is not election? It is God passing by a multitude and showing grace and favor to the most undeserving and unworthy! Christ continues to expound the sovereign and distinguishing grace of God in the next verse (v.27) when He declares there were “many lepers in Israel in the time of Elisha the prophet, and not of them was cleansed except Naaman the Syrian.” Again Christ illustrated the fact that God passes by many to show mercy to one! What was the result of the Lord’s teaching on the subject of election? Did the people rejoice? Did they respond favorably? Verses 28-29 tell us they “were filled with wrath” and sought to kill Him. That same type of response is often encountered today when God’s men and people faithfully proclaim the truth. The spirit that is filled with anger and wrath at the doctrine of election is not the Spirit of Christ, but of the rebellious human heart. Our Lord taught election in other sections of Scripture also (see Matt. 11:25-27; John 6:37, 39 & 15:16,19) One must not try to set Christ against Paul or vice versa; Paul preached that which he received from Christ his Redeemer. As C.H. Spurgeon once said, “It is not novelty, then, that I am preaching no new doctrine. I love to proclaim these strong old doctrines that are called by nickname, Calvinism, but which are surely and verily that revealed truth of God as it is in Christ Jesus.”

9. Election becomes evident in time and affects all phases of a believer’s life. The believers in the church at Thessalonica were told to know and be assured of their election of God. ( 1 Thess. 1:4). Just as individuals were chosen in eternity past to be saved, they shall in time be called to receive that salvation (2 Thess. 2:13-14), which shall change and affect every aspect of their lives. This is clearly seen in Paul’s injunction to the Colossians “as the elect of God, holy and beloved,…” (Col. 3:12-4:6). Areas which would be wrought upon by God’s electing grace were: the believer’s heart and mind before God, his relationship with his fellow man and brethren, his marriage and family, and his work. Every sphere of life is covered. It must be noted that holiness is a mark of all of God’s elect, blood-washed people. If there is no holiness, there is no salvation, nor election! That is why Peter tells us to make our calling and election sure (2 Pet. 1:5-11).

10. Lastly, as the nature of election, it is not only a choosing unto salvation, but also to vocation and service. Christ chose twelve apostles (John 6:70), and Paul was chosen into special service (Acts 9:15,16 & 17:26).

Gr. Greek

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Forgiveness

Posted on August 26, 2009 by Timbo

There have been times in my life when I have fallen short of what I know God would have for me. I have failed at putting on Christ and putting off the old man as scripture instruct in many areas of my life. (Rom. 13:14) I have the old nature that pulls constantly at me to hate God, love myself and follow my own lusts. (Rom.7)  We all struggle with this, and we will continue until the day we see Him face to face. (1 Cor. 13:12, 1 John 3:2) Then, on that day, I will finally be free from my sin and be like Jesus. What a day that will be!

If you are a child of God and are striving after the Lord, Do you struggle with guilt over your sin – even when you know the father has forgiven you of it? (Rom.8:1) I know I do! I have to constantly remind myself that He has made me pure in Christ, and that there is no condemnation for those in Christ.

Lets see what the father has said about our sin.

Rom.8:1-9

1There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. 2For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. 3For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemned sin in the flesh, 4that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. 5For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. 8So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God. 9But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you.

Here is a break down of the preceding verses to help you gain a deeper understanding of what is intended. This is taken from the John MacArthur study bible. 

8:1 therefore. The result or consequence of the truth just taught. Normally it marks the conclusion of the verses immediately preceding it. But here it introduces the staggering results of Paul’s teaching in the first 7 chapters: that justification is by faith alone on the basis of God’s overwhelming grace. no condemnation. Occurring only 3 times in the NT, all in Romans (cf. 5:16, 18), “condemnation” is used exclusively in judicial settings as the opposite of justification. It refers to a verdict of guilty and the penalty that verdict demands. No sin a believer can commit—past, present, or future—can be held against him, since the penalty was paid by Christ and righteousness was imputed to the believer. And no sin will ever reverse this divine legal decision. those … in Christ Jesus. I.e., every true Christian; to be in Christ means to be united with Him (see 6:2, 11; cf. 6:1–11; 1 Cor. 12:13, 27; 15:22). walk according to the flesh … the Spirit. This phrase is not found here in the earliest manuscripts but only at the end of v. 4, perhaps indicating an inadvertent copyist insertion.

8:2–30 The Spirit, who was mentioned only once in chaps. 1–7 (cf. 1:4), is referred to nearly 20 times in chap. 8. He frees us from sin and death (vv. 2, 3); enables us to fulfill God’s law (v. 4); changes our nature and grants us strength for victory over our unredeemed flesh (vv. 5–13); confirms our adoption as God’s children (vv. 14–16); and guarantees our ultimate glory (vv. 17–30).

8:2 The word “for” introduces the reason there is no condemnation for the believer, the Spirit has replaced the law that produced only sin and death (7:5, 13) with a new, simple law that produces life: the law of faith (3:27), or the message of the gospel. the law of the Spirit of life. Synonymous with the gospel, the law of faith. the law of sin and death. The law of God. Although it is good, holy, and righteous (7:12), because of the weakness of the flesh (see 7:7–11; 8:3), it can produce only sin and death (7:5, 13).

8:3 what the law could not do. Deliver sinners from its penalty (Acts 13:38, 39; Gal. 3:10) or make them righteous (Gal. 3:21). weak … the flesh. Because of the sinful corruption of unregenerate men, the law was powerless to produce righteousness (Gal. 3:21). His own Son. See Ps. 2:7; Gal. 4:4; Phil. 2:6, 7; Heb. 1:1–5. in the likeness of sinful flesh. Although in His incarnation Christ became fully man (see 1:3), He took only the outward appearance of sinful flesh, because He was completely without sin (Heb. 4:15). condemned sin in the flesh. God’s condemnation against sin was fully poured out on the sinless flesh of Christ (Is. 53:4–8; cf. Phil. 2:7).

8:4 righteous requirement of the law. The thoughts, words, and deeds which the moral law of God demands. The ceremonial aspect of the Mosaic law has been set aside (Col. 2:14–17), and the basic responsibility for the civil aspect, which shows the application of the moral law in a community, has been transferred to human government (13:1–7). The moral law finds its basis in the character of God and is presented in outline form in the Ten Commandments; its most condensed form is in Jesus’ commands to love God and to love one’s neighbor as one’s self. It has never been abrogated, but finds its authority in the New Covenant. Every unbeliever is still under its requirement of perfection and its condemnation, until he comes to Christ (Gal. 3:23–25) and every believer still finds in it the standard for behavior.fulfilled. Although the believer is no longer in bondage to the moral law’s condemnation and penalty (7:6), the law still reflects the moral character of God and His will for His creatures. But what the external, written code was unable to accomplish, the Spirit is able to do by writing the law on our hearts (Jer. 31:33, 34) and giving us the power to obey it. not walk according to the flesh but … the Spirit. Not an admonition, but a statement of fact that applies to all believers. “Walk” refers to a lifestyle, the habits of living and thinking that characterize a person’s life (cf. Luke 1:6; Eph. 4:17; 1 John 1:7). Since every true Christian is indwell by the Spirit (v. 9), every Christian will manifest the fruit He produces in their life (Gal. 5:22, 23).

8:5 those who live … the flesh. All unbelievers (see v. 4). set their minds. This Gr. verb refers to a basic orientation of the mind—a mindset that includes one’s affections, mental processes, and will (cf. Phil. 2:2, 5; 3:15, 19; Col. 3:2). Paul’s point is that unbelievers’ basic disposition is to satisfy the cravings of their unredeemed flesh (Phil. 3:19; 2 Pet. 2:10). those who live … the Spirit. All believers.

8:6 carnally minded. In the Gr. “minded” is a noun form of the verb in v. 5. “Carnally” means “of flesh.” This is a simple spiritual equation: The person with the mind set on the flesh is spiritually dead (cf. 1 Cor. 2:14; Eph. 2:1). spiritually minded. This describes every Christian. The person with his mind set on the things of the Spirit is very much spiritually alive and at peace with God (see 5:1; cf. Eph. 2:5).

8:7 enmity against God. The unbeliever’s problem is much deeper than acts of disobedience, which are merely outward manifestations of inner fleshly compulsions. His basic inclinations and orientation toward gratifying himself—however outwardly religious or moral he may appear—are directly hostile to God. Even the good deeds unbelievers perform are not truly a fulfillment of God’s law, because they are produced by the flesh, for selfish reasons, and from a heart that is in rebellion.

8:9 dwells. Refers to being in one’s own home. The Spirit of God makes His home in every person who trusts in Jesus Christ. Cf. 1 Cor. 6:19, 20; 12:13. When there is no evidence of His presence by the fruit He produces (Gal. 5:22, 23), a person has no legitimate claim to Christ as Savior and Lord.

If you are in Christ – by your repentance of sin and Faith in what Jesus did, forgiveness of yourself and your propensity to sin is what the father wants from us. We forgive ourselves because the father has already done so by the death of Christ. Do not walk around with a heavy weight of guilt around your neck. Accept the position in Christ that He died to give you and let sin be less and less characterized in your life.


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Dangerous Duty of Delight

Posted on August 24, 2009 by Timbo

Delighting my self in the Lord 2009

The Study

I am hoping to capture what God would have me to learn in my walk with Him – that nothing in this world is ever going to take away the hole in my heart – that feeling of sorrow and dissatisfaction that we all have. I am reading a book called the Dangerous Duty of Delight – John Piper – and this study is based on it.  I want to get to the place where I can be full of Joy and full of confidence and trust in my Lord – thus I pray for God to Cause by His grace for me to be filled.

Deut. 27:47-48

47Because thou servedst not the LORD thy God with joyfulness, and with gladness of heart, for the abundance of all things;

48Therefore shalt thou serve thine enemies, which the LORD shall send against thee, in hunger, and in thirst, and in nakedness, and in want of all things: and he shall put a yoke of iron upon thy neck, until he has destroyed thee.

God will use “others” to cause us to recognize the need for and cause us to be grateful. I want to serve Him with gladness of heart – recognizing that He has blessed me with Abundance of all things. He does deserve a cheerful heart of worship. LOOK and see all that He has done for me.

Ps. 43:4

Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God.

I need to sing unto Him – that which uplifts all that He is. He listens to me and receives my worship.
Ps. 100:2

2Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
Don’t serve Him otherwise. Serve Him at  work with Gladness – whatever God in His providence has choosen for me to do. Many look at their jobs as their source fullfillment. But for many – they come to understand that ‘what they do” doesn’t really satisty the soul like knowing and loving God  – thru faith in Christ can and does.

Ps 37:4

4Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.

What do I take Delight in other than God. Is that thing – something that really fully fills my heart? No – it does not. No wonder I am so dry sometimes. I need to actively examine God’s Character and rejoice in what I am seeing. There is so much to see and delight in.

Small List:

Grace of God – Truth – Love of God – Family and Friends –Physical and Spiritual Health from the Lord – Influence from the truth within me – Holy Spirit and His leadership – His Sovereignty in all matters – Strength in my weakness and the Grace that is sufficient in trials and problems – Wisdom that is not worldly but from my Father – Abba Father – the names of God and how He manifests them to me – Wrath of God – He will pay!

Ps. 90:14

14O satisfy us early with thy mercy; that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.

Teach me of my need early so that I can walk with God all my days and be glad in Him.

Ps. 16:11

11Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

God will show those who He chooses that Path of Life – (Walking in Truth) and He will lead me into the presence of Himself and show me the fullness of Joy in Him. This is what I want – Fullness of Joy – not in stuff – People – this world – BUT in Him.

How God glorifies Himself in the processes of Salvation

Predestination

Eph. 1:5-6

He predestined us to adoption, as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will, to the praise of the glory of His Grace

The first step in God glorifying Himself is in his sovereign choice of me before the foundation of the world was ever laid. In eternity past, He choose me, before I was ever created in my mothers womb (which He choose) that I would participate in the Grace of God – and the entire process of Salvation. What a wonder to think that God has choosen me. Not according to any thing that I brought to the table – but just because He choose me – to demonstrate His mercy and Grace . He awakened me from my death in sin – made me alive in Christ through faith – and continues the process of sanctification through trials and circumstances of life. All – to glorify the Grace shown to me. Thus glorifying Himself.

Creation of Man

Is. 43:6-7

Bring My sons from afar and My daughters from the ends of the earth – everyone who is called by My name and whom I have created for My Glory.

Wow – You can see the choice and call of God in these verses. God calls us sons and daughters who are far off – dead in sins –  the elect – all over the earth. Those who hear the call – (only the elect) have been called for the purpose of glorifying the Lord. I am part of that! I have heard the call because of God drawing me to Himself – Ordering my footsteps to the direction of glorifying Him with my life. It is like a fruit tree that bears its fruit in its season. The fruit tree bears specific fruits that are in accordance with its nature. For example – an Apple tree produces Apples and so on. Did the apple tree choose to be an apple tree? Or did the lepard choose to have spots on it. NO! This is how God is! It is all His choice and all for His glory.

I know that this produces many thoughts of  “free will” and the “responsibility of man” all of which is a tention in scripture. But since God is the author of Scripture – (All scripture is perfect and completely pure – trustworthy) and the heart of God is trustworthy and pure – I know that I can live with this tention, since it is from the heart of my Father.

My understanding is fallen due to my sin. His ways are not my ways and thought not my thougths and He will do what He wants without my understanding and “permission.” (Is. 46:10)
Deut. 29:29

The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but those things which are revealed beling to us and to our children forever…

Sanctification

Phil 1:9,11

And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more… having been filled with the fruit of righteousness, which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

What can bring praise to God – that really is sufficient? Well – nothing in me that is for sure. Only God can glorify Himself rightly. And He chooses to do this through me and by true brothers and sisters in the Lord.

One of the main characteristics that is present in His true children (lives that are characterized by obedience- yet sometime sinful) is Love and the fruits of the Spirit as found in Galatians 5:22-26.

Consummation

2 Thes. 1:9-10

(Those who do not obey the gospel) will pay the penalty of eternal destruction away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power, when he comes to be glorified in His saints on that day, and to be marveled at among all who have believed.

Oh… what joy it is to marvel at the things that God IS – and not what we make Him to be.  Wrath is part of who He is, and that is just as beautiful and right and pure as His love – mercy and Grace is – becasue it is part of Himself.

Scripture – rightly handled – bring such soul satisfaction to the true child of God. Nothing can satisfy us like the wonder and praise of who God is and as He is revealed in Scripture.

Jonathan Edwards said:

“God is glorified not only by His glory’s being seen, but in being rejoiced in it.”

I think this is so true. To see it is one thing – but to marvel and praise Him for it is another. This should be the aim of my life for to turn my eyes upon Jesus, ( as the old familiar Hymn states) and look fully into His marvelous face – that the things of this world will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.

Romansns 15:8-9

Christ has become a servant to the circumcision on behalf of the truth of God to confirm the promises given to the father, and for the Gentiles to glorify God for His mercy.

Me – being a Gentile – will glorify God. I am so glad that God did not only choose the Jews for salvation but that He choose me and I am the Bride of Christ and will one day be free from my sin and be with the Lord forever.

I have had to ask the question many times why God created me? I have asked this many times to myself. Is it merely to work at my job – raise a family – be a good person who is principled and lives life based on these principles? Is this it?

The answer according to Scripture is NO! God is most satisfied when I am most satisfied in Him. His passion to be glorified by me and the elect is not in contradiction to my desire to have joy to its fullest.  I am created so that I may spend eternity glorifying the Lord and enjoying Him forever. I will never plum the depths of knowing Him. One of the greatest thoughts to me –  now –  is knowing that when I die, I will forever spend my “time’ (there will be no time) deepening my understanding and wonder of who God is.

Today is a day in eternity – jut like my “days” (there will be no days) will be there. I am to pursue Theology that is deep and accurately handled by people who have shown themselves a good steward of the Word of God. Apart from deep theology and a proper understanding of God – I will not delight myself as God would have me to, and I will naturally pursue the things that bring some level of delight.

C.S. Lewis said “ We are half hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea.”

WOW – could this be true! Yes I think it is. I have spent most of my life pursuing and praising the things of this world as the little child making mud pies in the slums.


Phil  1:20-21 Says ” My earnest expectatin and hope that I will not be put to shame in anything, but that with all boldness, Christ will even now, as always, be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

A Christian who is in the process of physically dying (w hich we all will one day apart from the Lord coming back)  should be excited about the sure fact that he is about to meet the One who created him. For to live in this world is, and should be for the glory of God and walking with Him. We should be seeking to  know Him in all situations in life thru the clear truth revealed to us.  If a person has been faithful to live life this way, then their death should be a great and glorious time of graduation. Experiencing Christ as gain in you dying hour magnifies Christ – since He is the One that has been your source of fullfillment and life. NOW – death will only bring more of what you already  deeply love. The Loves of this world are dim compaired to the Love you have been partaking from from for years. ( Jesus Christ)

Feelings

We are commanded to Feel and not to Feel certain things. We are not only commanded to think and decide correctly based on Scripture, but to feel certain things. Such as Rejoicing. Rejoicing is part of feeling – but always founded on the truth of God. Without correct knowledge, we cannot rejoice.

1 Peter 1:8

Though you have not seen Him, you Love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with Joy inexpressible and full of Glory.

In Ex. 20:17 we are commanded to not covet – or want what is not yours. This is based on correct thinking about what God has spread before you. To be content with what you have.

Heb. 13:5 Be content with what you have.

God also commands us to bear no grudge.

Lev. 19:18 says

18Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself: I am the LORD.

Love and not bearing a grudge is a command to feel – but one must first submit to knowing Gods truth as revealed in scripture – and submit and take control of whatever feelings you may have.

1 Peter 1:22

Love one another earnestly from the heart

Romans 12:10

Love one another with brotherly affection

These are not mere intellectual decisions but a command to feel – to Love. Of course love is action – but it always involves feelings. Not only does scripture command us to Love, but – it commands joy, hope, fear, peace, grief, desire, tenderheartedness, brokenness and contrition, gratitude, lowliness etc…

So feelings are not something that are outside of our control but rather we control them based on our thinking and submission to the truth of God. I have no excuse for it. What I feel is based on what I think. I must learn to think on the truth and not let my feelings be ungodly.

Well… So what… What If I do not feel like it anyway…

Three things to doConfess the sin of Joylessness. It is a sinful dark heart that does not see what God has done and that cannot rejoice in what He has done.

Ps 61:2  My heart is faint – lead me to the rock that is higher than I amThere is joy in obedience. Ask for God to restore you to this joy.

Ps. 40:8  I delight to do Your will, O my God; Your Law is within my heart,Go and do the outward dimensions of you duty Doing will rekindle the delight of God – so just serve Him and ask Him to restore the joy of your heart.

Does this mean that Christians will never have sorry or tears because they are in some type of state where they don’t know or don’t care about the situations of life? NO – this would be the extreme position. Even Jesus and Paul cried.

2 Cor. 6:10 tell us to “weep with those who weep”

We are to find great joy in others achievements and deeper depths with the Lord. We are also to weep with those who are hurting.

Rom 9:2 Says  ” I have great sorrow and unceasing grief in my heart” for those who are going to hell and for those who are already there.

How about the folks you know or churches who are in sin

2 Cor. 2:4 says ” out of much affliction and anguish of heart and with many tears”

The essence of what is being said is found in Acts 20:35 where Paul reminds us to remember what Jesus had said that it was more blessed to give than to receive. A life that is lived – even if that means with great sacrifice – to love others and to give to them is a life that is better than living in luxury. Push upward toward heaven your efforts where the moth of inflation and the rust of death cannot touch your investment.

Matt. 6:19-20 says to “lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven”

We are far too eaisly pleased with the small luxuries of life. The greatest joys in life is only found as we faithfully give as unto the Lord – all that we have at our disposal. He may choose not to take it all – but if He does, then the reward is great in heaven for us – if we do not grow bitter and loose heart. It is faith in the unshakable God of Love who showed us the greatest sacrifice of all – His death on the Cross.

Worship

Worshiping God is the result of a heart that truly delights in the Lord. Ps. 37:4 says ” Delight yourself in the Lord.” But too often we delight ourselves in so many things other than God. Worship is like the deer who pants after the stream. ps42:1

Hebrews 11:6 says ” and without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.”

I must believe that God will reward me with Joy and in His presence is fullness for at His right hand are pleasures forever more.

Worship is done for so many wrong reasons. We worship for a list of something like this:

1. Raise money

2. Attract a crowd

3. Heal human hurts

4. Recruit workers for the church

5. Improve Church morale

6. To give talented musicians an opportunity to fulfil their calling

7. To teach our children the way of righteousness

8. Help our marriage

9. To evangelize the lost amoung us

10. To give our church family some feeling

All of which are sometime a by product of worship – but should never be the reasons for our worship. We should be worshipping God and all that He is to the degree that we do not even consider the above mentioned list. We should worship God and God alone – not the results of it.

So Worship GOD and all that He has revealed Himself to be and be full of Joy. Jesus said that He came to give us life and that more abundantly. It would seem that few are those who find it.+

How should this play out in the relationship of Marriage?

Jesus came to die on the cross so that He could have a Bride – which is the church. Eph. 5:29-30

So… If we are as husbands to love our wives as Christ loved the church and gave Himself for her, then we should be giving up ourselves for their joy . Jesus for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross (Heb.12:2) What Joy? The joy of marriage to His bride the church.  Then I am to do the same. I am to seek my joy in the Joy of my beloved.  True love seeks happiness in the happiness of the beloved.

Jesus died, so that He could present to Himself a bride that is full of glory – sanctified.  Do I seek what makes my wife joyful – or is it all about me and my felt needs? I am to nourish, cherish, sanctify, and cleanse my Bride by being a godly man and exposing her to the right teaching of the word of God.

Money

Many think that if you attain wealth that you will be happy. Certainly having money can purchase luxuries but having some nice carpet or furniture or car to drive WILL NOT CREATE HAPPINESS.

1 Tim. 6:9

Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction.

Anyone who desires to be rich – and pursues it will be hurt by it at some point. It depends on why a company or person wants money. What will they do with it is the question. What is the motivations? read 1 Tim 6:10 and follow down a few verses.

Godliness will free a person from the desire to be wealthy  and cause a person to be content with what they have. 1 Tim 4:8 speaks of the importance of godliness for it profits not only here (for the purpose of helping others) but also for laying up treasures in heaven.

We are not to pursue wealth for 3 reasons:

1. We brought nothing into the world and we’ll certainly take nothing out.  We all are naked before God with only what has been brought with us in our hearts.

2. When God is near and is for you, then you do not need anything additionally to give you peace and security. God is that source – not what His hand provides. Heb. 13:5-6

3. If we pursue wealth then we will end life  in the destruction it brings. I Tim 6:5-10 Luke 12:32-34

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