Tag: Jesus

The Everlasting Kingdom

On By TimIn Daniel 07, Heaven, Jesus, Salvation1 Comment

I saw in the night visions, and there was one like a Son of Man coming with the clouds of heaven. He came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before Him. There was given to Him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and His kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.

Daniel 7:13–14 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This Son of Man Cloud-Rider is the One given an everlasting kingdom. We know this is Jesus, as Jesus has been given all things by the Father.

He who comes from above is above all. He who is of the earth is earthly and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all. He bears witness of what He has seen and heard, yet no one receives His testimony. He who has received His testimony has certified that God is true. For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without measure to Him. The Father loves the Son, and has placed all things into His hand. He who believes in the Son has eternal life. He who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.

John 3:31–36 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Jesus uses this language to identify Himself as the Cloud Rider given all things by the Ancient of Days. There is a default kingdom in which all who can understand find themselves. There is another one… His.

The carnal kingdom whose master is death by sin leads to everlasting perdition. Perdition isn’t annihilation or soul sleep, but a real eternity away from everything God gives freely to all. Think about that… The air we breathe is His. As is cooling rain, water to quench thirst, food to date hunger, and the fellowship and camaraderie of others. Imagine being conscious without these things. It gets ugly.

The other, better kingdom is eternal and everlasting. It is a dominion given to Jesus. It doesn’t pass away. It is a kingdom of life. Those who enter into it are also everlasting by definition. The only way into this kingdom is to be born again into it.

Jesus answered, “Truly, truly I say to you, unless a man is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’

John 3:5–7 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Once born into that kingdom, there is no way out.

We are physically born into this carnal kingdom where death reigns over our bodies, encumbering our soul and spirit. We cannot leave it. Death isn’t a way out; it is the portal to judgment and perdition.

But we can be born again into this new everlasting kingdom. Just like in that carnal kingdom, where there is no death. This everlasting kingdom also has no way out.

Of which kingdom would you be a citizen?

The Lord Who Created the Heavens is the Servant

On By TimIn 27 - Daniel, Apologetics, Creation, Daniel 07, Isaiah 42, Psalm 104Leave a comment

Thus says God the Lord,
who created the heavens and stretched them out,
who spread forth the earth and that which comes out of it,
who gives breath to the people on it,
and spirit to those who walk in it:
I the Lord have called You in righteousness,
and will hold Your hand,
and will keep You and appoint You
for a covenant of the people,
for a light of the nations,
to open the blind eyes,
to bring out the prisoners from the prison,
and those who sit in darkness out of the prison house.
I am the Lord, that is My name;
and My glory I will not give to another,
nor My praise to graven images.
See, the former things have come to pass,
and new things I declare;
before they spring forth
I tell you of them.

Isaiah 42:5–9 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Thus says God the Lord

We don’t take His words lightly. When God makes a pronouncement, it’s important. God is identifying Himself as the Creator. The One Who made all things.
Remember the verses that come before this. They are a proclamation of the coming Servant, Messiah.

Who Created the Heavens

Creator is a unique identifier of God. He made the heavens. He had no help.

That’s the first declaration of the Bible for a reason. It is the foundation for all of reality. That is why God calls attention to these simple truths repeatedly. God is, and He made the heavens and the Earth.

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.

Genesis 1:1 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

And Stretched them Out

Long ago, there was a Servant of God named Job. The important parts of his life are recorded for us. In them, we know Job knew God. Even in the midst of a great trial, his friends offered counsel on his situation. Job’s faith didn’t waver. He made a declaration about God to his friends. In it, there is an identity of God that I think is enlightening.

He who alone spreads out the heavens, and treads on the waves of the sea. He who makes the Bear, Orion, and Pleiades, and the constellations of the south.

Job 9:8–9 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It is God alone Who spread out the heavens. It’s He Who makes the stars. The Psalmist agrees.

The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament shows His handiwork.

Psalm 19:1 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It is His Handiwork

Bless the Lord, O my soul!
O Lord my God, You are very great!
You are clothed with honor and majesty,
covering Yourself with light as a garment,
who stretches out the heavens like a tent curtain,
who lays the upper beams of His chambers on the waters above,
who makes the clouds His chariot,
who rides upon the wings of the wind,
who makes His angels as winds,
His ministers a flaming fire.

Psalm 104:1–4 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Though poetic, the language is telling us the heavens we created. They were made by God. They have a message for us. It is a testament of this great God Who would come to serve His creations made of dust.
Now, these last citations have referenced water and waves as a unique identifier in connection to this great God. The Psalmist includes another: He makes the clouds His chariot. This great God walks on water and has chariots of clouds.
To recap, we see the Servant in this prophecy would make an advent. We are given many ways to identify this Chosen Servant. Now God chooses to identify Himself uniquely as Creator.

This Chosen Servant is the Creator

This Creator treads on the waves. We know Jesus walked on water. It is recorded in the Gospels for our edification and to help us identify the Chosen Servant. The Gospels also identify the Servant as the Creator in many ways.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were created through Him, and without Him nothing was created that was created. In Him was life, and the life was the light of mankind. The light shines in darkness, but the darkness has not overcome it.

John 1:2–5 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

There is layer upon layer of truths through the Scriptures. There are more crumbs that have fallen from the Master’s table for us.

The Cloud Rider

Let’s go to an episode toward the end of the Servant’s ministry on Earth. He has been arrested and is brought before the then High Priest of Israel. This is the one man who was assigned to intercede for Israel before God. One would think he would know the Scriptures that speak about God.
The priest demands succinctly, “I adjure You by the living God, tell us whether You are the Christ, the Son of God.”

Jesus said to him, “You have said so. But I say to you, hereafter you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven.”
Then the high priest tore his clothes, saying, “He has uttered blasphemy. What further need do we have for witnesses? See, now you have heard His blasphemy. What do you think?”

Matthew 26:64–66 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Caiaphas knew Who Jesus claimed to be. He also knew from the other identifiers in the Old Testament, exactly those things exclusive to the Messiah.
Those same Scriptures also give us exclusive identifiers of the Great God. He treads on waves of the sea. This Man before him did that. This Man calls Himself publicly the Son of Man. Now He identifies Himself as this chariot-of-clouds-riding God.

I saw in the night visions, and there was one like a Son of Man coming with the clouds of heaven. He came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before Him. There was given to Him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and His kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.

Daniel 7:13–14 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This Chosen Servant is given an everlasting kingdom. This Servant is none other than God.

Of this Coming Servant… As Caiaphas asked, “What do you think?”

Is this You?

On By TimIn Eternal Security, Fruitfulness, Hebrews 06, SalvationLeave a comment

For land that drinks in the rain that often falls upon it and bears a crop useful to those for whom it is cultivated receives a blessing from God. But land that bears thorns and thistles is rejected and near to being cursed. Its destiny is to be burned.

Hebrews 6:7-8 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This is a parable. The land that drinks in the rain is those who readily hear the Word of God and welcome it. Such may even serve in church, soup kitchens, or volunteer for other worthy causes. You see, we can receive God’s Word, and we can serve others. We can spend a lot of our time volunteering and helping others. The parable offers a caveat.

The crop is the service you do. In order for it to be blessed, it must be done with the proper motivation.

The rain and fruit must be useful for Whom it is cultivated. That is, it must be useful for God. In other words, think of it like this:

For the heart that receives the Word of God readily, and serves because their faith solely for salvation is in Jesus, and they do it for Him… Those receive the Holy Spirit and eternal life.

In other words, there is no other way to know the Father than through Jesus. You cannot know the Father by doing any of the Old Testament commandments. You cannot do it by going to confession or adhering to the dictates of some organization like the Watchtower or Latter-Day Saints. The only way to know the Father is through Jesus.

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also. From now on you do know Him and have seen Him.”

John 14:6-7 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Those who don’t have the former, a heart cultivated by Jesus to receive the truth of His Word and bear fruit for Him… Are rejected and near being cursed. If that is you, as you read this, there is still hope for you.

Acknowledge that Jesus is God.

Believe (the Bible says in your heart) that He is God, that He lived on earth as recorded, that He died to forgive your sins, and that He rose again and lives today.

Confess it aloud with your mouth!

Did Jesus Already Return?

On By TimIn Acts 01, Jesus, Rapture, Return of JesusLeave a comment

When He had spoken these things, while they looked, He was taken up. And a cloud received Him from their sight.
While they looked intently toward heaven as He ascended, suddenly two men stood by them in white garments. They said, “Men of Galilee, why stand looking toward heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you to heaven, will come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.”

Acts 1:9–11 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I was just reading that someone was attempting to claim Jesus had already returned in the first century. That is, He came to Paul. Given the testimony above, let’s examine the evidence for such a claim.

As he went he drew near Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?”
He said, “Who are You, Lord?”
The Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” Trembling and astonished, he said, “Lord, what will You have me do?” The Lord said to him, “Rise up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
The men traveling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice, but seeing no one. Saul rose up from the ground. And when his eyes were opened, he saw nothing. So they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. For three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank.

Acts 9:3–9 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

“As I journeyed and came near Damascus, about noon suddenly a great light from heaven shone around me. I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?’
“I answered, ‘Who are You, Lord?’
“He said to me, ‘I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting.’ Those who were with me saw the light and were afraid, but they did not hear the voice of Him who was speaking to me.
“I said, ‘What shall I do, Lord?’
“The Lord said to me, ‘Rise and go into Damascus. There you will be told what you have been appointed to do.’ Since I was blinded by the glory of that light, those who were with me led me by the hand into Damascus.

Acts 22:6–11 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

These are the two accounts of Paul’s experience. The latter seems to be a quotation of Paul recounting the event to others. Let’s note some things.

The angels at Jesus’ ascension said Jesus would come again in like manner. To wit: “a cloud receive Him from their sight.” Do notice that there are multiple eyewitnesses to this event. The angels said this same Jesus would come again in like manner. They… Many… Saw Him go into heaven.

In contrast to the Damascus Road experience. Neither Paul nor his companions saw Jesus come from heaven. His companions didn’t see Jesus.

There is also something that is easily overlooked. Jesus had a body as He ascended. If He has a body at Damascus Road, how is it such was veiled from Paul’s companions, who heard a disembodied voice?

Luke provides another witness of the event.

While He blessed them, He parted from them and was carried up into heaven.

Luke 24:51 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

We clearly see that there are multiple eyewitnesses present at Jesus’ ascension to heaven. For the Damascus Road experience to qualify as the second coming, it necessitates multiple eyewitnesses to the event. As we’ve covered Paul’s experience, at best, there could only be one eyewitness. It is debatable that Paul did not see Him there either, since his own testimony declares he was blinded by the light.

Then they returned to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, which is a Sabbath day’s walk from Jerusalem.

Acts 1:12 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

We also see another qualification for the like manner… Location. To meet the qualifications the angels gave to the eyewitnesses, as Paul “came near to Damascus,” this is now not even near the Mount of Olives.

I must also point out the reaction to Paul’s companions. They were in fear!

Read what Paul writes about this event…

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly desires, we should live soberly, righteously, and in godliness in this present world, as we await the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all lawlessness and purify for Himself a special people, zealous of good works.

Titus 2:11–14 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Unless there is a third time Jesus comes, Paul’s experience, by his own testimony, cannot qualify as the second coming.

I the Lord have Called You

On By TimIn Election, Isaiah 42, Jesus, The ServantLeave a comment

Thus says God the Lord,
who created the heavens and stretched them out,
who spread forth the earth and that which comes out of it,
who gives breath to the people on it,
and spirit to those who walk in it:
I the Lord have called You in righteousness,
and will hold Your hand,
and will keep You and appoint You
for a covenant of the people,
for a light of the nations,
to open the blind eyes,
to bring out the prisoners from the prison,
and those who sit in darkness out of the prison house.
I am the Lord, that is My name;
and My glory I will not give to another,
nor My praise to graven images.
See, the former things have come to pass,
and new things I declare;
before they spring forth
I tell you of them.

Isaiah 42:5–9 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

As we continue in Isaiah 42, we see this Elect Servant of God is indeed called to a specific purpose. That is Biblical election. It isn’t being elect to salvation, but to a purpose.

Perhaps as you’ve read Romans 9, you miss what is taught. Paul introduces the chapter outlining the service Israel was appointed to do for God.

to whom belong the patriarchs, and from whom, according to the flesh, is Christ, who is over all, God forever blessed. Amen.

Romans 9:5 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It is this exclusive calling given to Israel. But with Isaiah’s prophecy, we can see that this calling is also to an Individual, One we know as Jesus Christ. One of the names applied to Jesus is Israel. As He fulfills the purposes of their calling.

As the One does the calling, we see God establish His “bona fides,” which is His right to elect. He does that in a specific way, which will be demonstrated in the next post on this subject.

God then promises to be the One to uphold and establish this Servant. He appoints unique characteristics and abilities to this Servant to help us identify Him. He would be the covenant of the people and to open blind eyes.

God then calls our attention back to Who He is. In the midst of that, He also gives us another way to identify this unique Servant. It is how John identifies this Servant.

The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, the glory as the only Son of the Father, full of grace and truth.

John 1:14 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

We saw His glory; that is God’s glory… given to another. John is establishing this Servant as God Himself.

The Servant is not Discouraged

On By TimIn Daily Walk, Good, Isaiah 42, Mark 14, The ServantLeave a comment

Here is My servant, whom I uphold,
My chosen one, in whom My soul delights.
I have put My Spirit upon him;
he shall bring forth justice to the nations.
He shall not cry out, nor lift up his voice,
nor cause his voice to be heard in the street.
A bruised reed he shall not break,
and the smoking flax he shall not quench;
he shall bring forth justice faithfully.
He shall not be disheartened nor be discouraged,
until he has set justice in the earth;
and the coastlands shall wait for his law.

Isaiah 42:1-4 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Jesus was steadfast in His elect purpose. Continuing from the previous post in Jesus’ purposeful encounter with that Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well, this is what He told her.

Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work.

John 4:34 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Jesus set forth at His task. It was to do as the Father has purposed. The Holy Spirit was placed upon Him, and He presses forward just as the text says, to bring forth justice faithfully.

“Truly, truly I say to you, whoever hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has eternal life and shall not come into condemnation, but has passed from death into life. Truly, truly I say to you, the hour is coming, and is now here, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. For as the Father has life in Himself, so He has given to the Son to have life in Himself, and has given Him authority to execute judgment also, because He is the Son of Man.

Do not marvel at this. For the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice and come out—those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment. I can do nothing of Myself. As I hear, I judge. My judgment is just, because I seek not My own will, but the will of the Father who sent Me.

John 5:24–30 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Just as He faithfully spoke of the same need to that Samaritan woman. And in the above passage, He spoke plainly to those who would intend to harm Him. He wasn’t disheartened. He addresses their need to believe even in the midst of their desire to kill Him. He also explains that there is a time constraint to this mercy. Judgment is coming, yet now there is a way of Escape.

In one of my favorite portions of Scripture, Jesus is ministering to the folks who followed Him after He fed them from a young boy’s lunch. They were looking to see more of the miracles, and they wanted the satisfaction of their physical and temporal needs. Jesus patiently explained to them a greater spiritual need.

Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me shall never hunger, and whoever believes in Me shall never thirst. But I told you that you have seen Me, and yet do not believe. All whom the Father gives Me will come to Me, and he who comes to Me I will never cast out. For I came down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me. This is the will of the Father who has sent Me, that of all whom He has given Me, I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day. This is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.”

John 6:35–40 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

“I am the Bread of Life,” He said. It would cure the hunger that they had.

He further expounds on what was told to the Samaritan woman; He gives water that quenches thirst for good. Jesus is using physical needs to point to the related spiritual need.

We also see that He speaks of raising the dead in the passage from John 5. Some are raised to the resurrection of life and others to the resurrection of judgment. He is pointing to the truth of the Father giving Him all things. He is telling them He loses none that come to Him. It doesn’t mean that all will be saved from the resurrection of judgment. But that He loses none of whom He’s been given authority to raise up, which is all. Those that believe will be given eternal life.

The important part is that He is set to do His Father’s work diligently.

“He shall not be disheartened nor be discouraged,”

I will just leave the rest to Mark’s description of the end. In it, we see Jesus to be a bit tentative in His last night before the Cross. He goes away to pray three times; we see His resolve. Even here, we see Him not delay or be discouraged.

They came to a place which was named Gethsemane. And He said to His disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” He took Peter and James and John with Him and began to be greatly distressed and very troubled. And He said to them, “My soul is deeply sorrowful unto death. Remain here and keep watch.”
He went a little farther and fell on the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from Him. He said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Remove this cup from Me; yet not what I will, but what You will.”
Then He came and found them sleeping and said to Peter, “Simon, are you sleeping? Could you not keep watch one hour? Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Again He went away and prayed the same words. When He returned, He again found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy. And they did not know what to answer Him.
When He returned a third time, He said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? It is enough! The hour has come. Look, the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise up, let us go. Look! He who betrays Me is at hand.”

Mark 14:32–42 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

In the same way, in doing our Father’s bidding, ought we not be disheartened or discouraged?

He Shall Bring Forth Justice

On By TimIn Daily Walk, Isaiah 42, The ServantLeave a comment

Here is My servant, whom I uphold,
My chosen one, in whom My soul delights.
I have put My Spirit upon him;
he shall bring forth justice to the nations.
He shall not cry out, nor lift up his voice,
nor cause his voice to be heard in the street.
A bruised reed he shall not break,
and the smoking flax he shall not quench;
he shall bring forth justice faithfully.
He shall not be disheartened nor be discouraged,
until he has set justice in the earth;
and the coastlands shall wait for his law.

Isaiah 42:1-4 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I had a conversation in which a portion of this passage was cited for some off-the-wall explanation. It was a friend of mine whose words helped to explain a portion of this.

“A bruised reed he shall not break,”

The idea explained here is that Jesus would not break those who are already beaten and trodden down. It characterizes Jesus in a way that is easily recognizable for the pattern that Isaiah has established.

Reeds were often collected to be used as kindling for starting fires. Fire was a necessity for heat and cooking. We don’t think that way because of modern conveniences. When collecting the reeds, it was preferred to not take a green reed. It was easier to break off one already bent. These were collected and dried to use in fires. The idea is that these bruised reeds were removed from their source of life and fruitfulness. This is the same way that the Servant would regard people.

Jesus wouldn’t break these. Moreover, He wasn’t the cause of these reeds being bent. The reeds would have been bent by the wind, people, or other animals who went amongst them to the water they grew in. It was a part of life. As my friend said:

“Jesus, who is God in the flesh, did not regard people as just kindling for the fire.” Wayne E. Parsons

He didn’t cause the reed to be bent nor would He purposely cause people to be completely severed from the source of Life. This idea is no more epitomized than with Jesus’ purposeful encounter with the Samaritan woman. John says it was necessary for Jesus to go through Samaria (John 4:4.) It was a purposeful encounter, even to the very place… Jacob’s well. Jesus sat there in the middle of the day.

Then the woman of Samaria said to Him, “How is it that You, being a Jew, ask a drink from me, a woman of Samaria?” For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.

John 4:9 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

There is that bruised reed. The woman was a Samaritan, someone an Israeli may have considered beneath even serving them. The Samaritans were generally considered half-breeds and not fully Jewish. Yet they are descendants of Jacob, but it is more than the well and the water.

Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who is saying to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.”
The woman said to Him, “Sir, You have nothing to draw with, and the well is deep. Where then do You get that living water? Are You greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, along with his sons and his livestock?”
Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water that I shall give him will become in him a well of water springing up into eternal life.”

John 4:10-13 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

In this simple conversation, Jesus is pointing to Himself as the Giver of Life. Yet the Samaritan woman had not yet understood. Her eyes were focused on the well before her, and she could see Jesus had no utensils for even drawing water from the well. Jesus must explain that the water He gives won’t come from that well. We see that the reed before Him is twice bruised. She is a half-breed and lacks eternal life (a pathway to God.)

The woman said to Him, “Sir, give me this water, so that I will not thirst, nor come here to draw.”

John 4:15 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Just like that, we see the next portion illustrated.

“and the smoking flax he shall not quench;”

The smoking flax is the smoldering wick of a candle. It puts out a little bit of light, but with lots of smoke. You’ve seen it, when the wax puddles up to the wick, the flame gets very small and may even begin to smoke for a lack of oxygen and/or fuel. We would snuff that candle out; not Jesus. We see by the woman’s testimony that she still wanted to serve God, but her faith was weak because of the circumstances she found herself in. These weren’t caused by God, nor did she fatalistically end up there as we shall see. It was clearly her own choices that put her faith in such a precarious position of being smothered out by life.

Jesus said to her, “Go, call your husband, and come here.”
The woman answered, “I have no husband.”
Jesus said to her, “You are right in saying, ‘I have no husband,’ for you have had five husbands, and he whom you now have is not your husband. So you have spoken truthfully.”

John 4:16-18 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I love this part. Jesus called her to a task. It led to her confessing the truth to Him. It is given to us in such a matter-of-fact way; I don’t know if there was any shame. I certainly don’t think that was Jesus’ intent. His intent was to win her!

She quickly perceived Him to have some way of knowing secret things. She was still quite unsure of things, being separated from the only way to approach God at that time. He didn’t quench that little spark of faith, she wanted to know how to seek God.

The woman said to Him, “Sir, I perceive that You are a prophet. Our fathers worshipped on this mountain, but you all say that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.”
Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father. You worship what you do not know; we know what we worship, for salvation is of the Jews. Yet the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth. For the Father seeks such to worship Him. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship Him in spirit and truth.”
The woman said to Him, “I know that Messiah is coming” (who is called Christ). “When He comes, He will tell us all things.”
Jesus said to her, “I who speak to you am He.”

John 4:16-26 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I can imagine in my mind’s eye the protracted silence that existed in that moment. A half-breed Samaritan woman who had perceived her own rejection by God wrongly because of her circumstances of birth. She was also a woman five times divorced, and the man she had didn’t marry her. Really, who is she that the Elect One of Israel came to meet her?

The silence seems to continue as the disciples show up and are caught up in their own marvel.

Then His disciples came. They marveled that He talked with a woman. Yet no one said, “What do You seek?” or, “Why are You talking with her?”
The woman then left her water pot, went her way into the city, and said to the men, “Come, see a Man who told me all things that I ever did. Could this be the Christ?” They went out of the city and came to Him.

John 4:27-30 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I am still imagining; there she is, thinking, probably with her mouth agape. His friends show up; they too are surprised. She then takes off, leaving her stuff behind. I am laughing as I am thinking of it like the old cartoon Road Runner… That fast!

That smoldering flax caught fire again!

Many of the Samaritans of that city believed in Him because of the word of the woman who testified, “He told me all that I ever did.” So when the Samaritans came to Him, they asked Him to remain with them. And He stayed there two days. And many more believed because of His word.
They said to the woman, “Now we believe, not because of what you said, for we have heard for ourselves and know that this Man is indeed the Christ, the Savior of the world.”

John 4:39-42 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

We have an account of the first evangelist. She was a woman.

There is another account that I think of when reading of a bruised reed: He will not break. It is that of the woman caught in adultery, which is given a bit later in the book of John.

Jesus isn’t here to crush you… Really.

“he shall bring forth justice faithfully.”

But in the meantime, would you want justice for what you’ve done?

Or would you prefer compassion and mercy?

The Elect One

On By TimIn Election, Isaiah 42, The ServantLeave a comment

Here is My servant, whom I uphold, My chosen one, in whom My soul delights. I have put My Spirit upon him; he shall bring forth justice to the nations. He shall not cry out, nor lift up his voice, nor cause his voice to be heard in the street. A bruised reed he shall not break, and the smoking flax he shall not quench; he shall bring forth justice faithfully. He shall not be disheartened nor be discouraged, until he has set justice in the earth; and the coastlands shall wait for his law.

Isaiah 42:1–4 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

“Here is My Servant,” says God. Here is My Chosen One. This is God speaking of Jesus. Of course, there will be much agreement on that.

However, there is another truth here that is overlooked and ignored. The idea of being chosen by God isn’t connected to salvation, not in the sense that we’ve been taught to believe. Here, God is calling the Chosen One “My Servant.”

God is speaking through Isaiah of Jesus and the service He has been chosen to render to God. We have the benefit of reading this with hindsight. When pondering this passage, we have the written history of what Jesus did. Yet the completion of this is something future. That is, to bring forth justice.

During Jesus’ earthly advent, of which the Gospels testify, we clearly see that His ministry was one where folks were drawn to Him. He didn’t have to preach loudly in the streets. People came to Him, being drawn to Him.

We also see in this ministry His compassion toward those who were downtrodden and weak. The infirm and lame came to Him, and He turned none away. Those with the littlest of faith were ministered to with compassion and mercy. The little faith they exercised wasn’t quenched. I am certain the Holy Spirit is recalling some of these to your mind as He is mine as I write.

The promise of justice on earth had begun. The kind of justice God gives, that is rendered with compassion through His Servant.

Even when He went to the cross, we read of His anguish. That is preserved for us also in the Gospels. The night of His arrest, He prayed and prayed… and prayed again. Even while His friends were fast asleep. He wasn’t disheartened, nor was He discouraged. Yet He pressed on, toward that upward calling of His Father.

For each of us believers now, we hope. Because He isn’t disheartened or discouraged. Neither ought we be. It’s His task to bring justice to the Earth, and it is coming.

You may be bruised… Even close to being burnt out. You can take that burden to Jesus. Yes, you can choose to go to Him. He won’t turn you away. It doesn’t matter what you’ve done. He’s promised to not break you or extinguish you. But there is a time limit… While you yet live and justice hasn’t yet been set on earth.

Come now, He offers. Why wait?

The People Decide

On By TimIn Church, Revelation 01Leave a comment

When I saw Him, I fell at His feet as though I were dead. Then He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, though I was dead. Look! I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.
“Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after this. The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven candlesticks which you saw are the seven churches.

Revelation 1:17-20 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I recently found myself in a discussion about these letters. Much of the discussion involved how to apply what is written, and whether they were addressed only to the seven churches named or whether they have applications for today. There is a specific objection made to the application of the term “lukewarm.”

Surely these epistles were written to real first-century local assemblies. Jesus addressed them by name. Jesus’ words in introducing Himself as the head of these churches include an application that was present then, and “which will take place after this.” Of course, the rest of Revelation is yet future. Given the introduction, Jesus clearly is saying the entire revelation has layered applications.

Take the Epistles Seriously

An objection was raised that these seven epistles to the churches have nothing to do with our modern-day.

As I stated earlier, these 7 epistles are layered with meaning and nuance. There is an application for the period in which they were written, application for the entire end age, including today. There are deeper meanings of each letter that can be applied to every local assembly of believers. Each of these bodies would, more or less, fit into one of those seven descriptions. These epistles can even be loosely applied to the panorama of the “church age.” That is, these seven churches are chronological descriptions of the universal church since Jesus founded it. The last three are noted as end-times bodies. Also noted in the epistles, though it may not be readily discerned… There is always a body of people who would usurp the authority and leadership of Jesus in these churches.

The message that Jesus gave to each body is a report card. Where the church falls short, Jesus assures that it can change direction. He even offers many remedies for that. More importantly, Jesus also speaks directly to those individuals within these bodies, “let him who has an ear.” This demonstrates these may have personal applications, too.

I take the Bible seriously… Even in its seemingly offensive applications.

He Who Has an Ear

“To the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write:
“The Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God, says these things: I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spit you out of My mouth. For you say, ‘I am rich, and have stored up goods, and have need of nothing,’ yet do not realize that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked. I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined by fire, that you may be rich, and white garments, that you may be dressed, that the shame of your nakedness may not appear, and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.
“Those whom I love, I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be zealous and repent. Listen! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me.
“To him who overcomes will I grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”

Revelation 3:14-22 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

We come to the major objection that leads to a rejection of the application to individuals and to church bodies of our day. It’s right there… “because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spit you out of My mouth.” I’ve underlined one of the words Jesus used.

You see, many folks misapply this verse. They use it to beat up individual Christians. That isn’t how Jesus used it. To apply it that way is incorrect. The proper way to use it is to describe a body of believers. A body of believers that really had no need of anything from Jesus. Lukewarm is not a description of individual believers.

These are letters to churches. Each of the seven is addressed, and if the problems weren’t rectified, Jesus would leave this church… As a body. Our perspective of history clearly demonstrates this. Local assemblies in Europe have shut their doors. Church buildings are being sold and used for other purposes. This is what happens when a church leaves its first Love, for whatever reason. It begins with drifting away from the truth; it progresses in a usurping of the headship of Jesus Christ.

Sometimes the misapplication of lukewarm is a way of shaming and controlling individuals. Nevertheless, a teacher who wishes to use the term to shame and admonish believers in the local fellowship is really stating the fellowship itself is lukewarm. That term may say something about leadership and may not.

As discussions go, this one has a natural evolution.

Who is the Head?

Church is not a building, at least not in the Biblical sense. Church is not a 501C3 corporation. Biblically, it is always used as a local assembly of believers. The head of which is always Jesus Christ.

Let us view these seven churches from the vantage point of the Head and history. The names of these churches are an indication of their character. There is also an unspoken implication of how the Headship of Jesus has been usurped by the spirit of the age.

I know your works, your labor and your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles, but are not, and have found them to be liars.

Revelation 2:2 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Today Ephesus is a Moslem village called Selçuk. At the time of the epistle, it was a central point of Christianity. John, Paul, Peter, Polycarp, and Irenaeus – were all in Ephesus. They were able to test those who claimed to be apostles. The church at Ephesus knew real apostles. Yet, the church with so much history died. We learn something: those who sought to control that church were false apostles.

I know your works and tribulation and poverty (but you are rich). And I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.

Revelation 2:9 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Smyrna, the martyred church. The church whose name derives from myrrh. The sweet smell used to cover the stench of dead bodies. We know it was Rome that was trying to seize control; the government wanted to usurp the Head.

But I have a few things against you: You have there those who hold the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to cast a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols and to commit sexual immorality. So you also have those who hold the teaching of the Nicolaitans.

Revelation 2:14-15 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Pergamum, the citadel, is said to characterize the Roman Catholic church. After the Roman government tried to seize control of the church, in some ways it did. Christianity was made the official religion of the Roman Empire. With it, came a whole new idea to integrate the church into the empire. As history demonstrates, it worked the other way around. The empire entered the church. A hierarchy of religious-political leaders was established, which would eventually result in the papacy. This is what Jesus warned about by using the term Nicolaitan. It literally means power over the laity. The clergy usurped the Headship of Jesus.

But I have a few things against you: You permit that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and seduce My servants to commit sexual immorality and eat food sacrificed to idols. I gave her time to repent of her sexual immorality, but she did not repent.

Revelation 2:20-21 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Thyatira hints at the sweet scent and sacrifice of labor. This city occupied a favored position on a trade route; the city was home to many trade guilds. Practices in these trade guilds included idol worship and sexual immorality. A woman stepped in to lead this body away in spiritual seduction.

Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain but are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfected before God.

Revelation 3:2 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I know your works. Look! I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it. For you have a little strength, and have kept My word, and have not denied My name. Listen! I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie. Listen! I will make them come and worship before your feet and to know that I have loved you.

Revelation 3:8-9 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Sardis is the embodiment of the reformation period of the church. The deeds of this church were found incomplete, and that body rested in those. In that sense, we can say that carnal Christians wanted control.

Philadelphia, the church of brotherly love! This is the church period denoting the great revivals all over the world. This church had no reprimand from Jesus. We see that those who say they believe but do not are the problem. The unbeliever seeks to usurp Jesus as Head of this church.

For you say, ‘I am rich, and have stored up goods, and have need of nothing,’ yet do not realize that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked. I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined by fire, that you may be rich, and white garments, that you may be dressed, that the shame of your nakedness may not appear, and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.

Revelation 3:17-18 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Laodicea is the people’s church. This is the church that offers itself in a way to seek the approval of all people. We could call this the seeker-sensitive church. The buildings have every comfort with environments designed so as not to offend anyone’s sensibilities. It is this church that the laity wants to usurp Jesus. He says He will spew such out of His mouth. It is much of what we see offered by churches today.

These letters are primarily written to bodies of believers and seemingly have nothing for or against individual people and their salvation. Our perspective of history clearly teaches Jesus will very much remove His presence and blessing away from a local gathering of believers because of their collective spiritual condition. The judgment is to the local body, not the individual or their salvation.

Lukewarm

Methinks there is something that convicts in that description. Especially with people’s excuses for not attending church today… Or how church should satisfy personal preferences. As the conversation meandered, it was peppered with objections about why not to attend church. It’s true that church attendance doesn’t save. I don’t even think it is required.

Another objection is that the teaching did not appeal, and that there was no real personal application. The words stated were, “I already felt I learned better on my own time than a church.” In other words, the teaching really wasn’t advanced enough to satisfy perceived personal needs. I can understand that, but I also think it is a dangerous place to be spiritually. Anytime the Bible is openly proclaimed, a believer can be taught. It is God’s word, and His Word never returns void, especially to believers.

Other points of interest included his pastor being a she. That is another discussion.

Yes, we are to learn in church, but our time for real learning is in private. It is how we communicate with our Savior. We talk to Him. He instructs us from His Word. That’s not to say you won’t learn something in church from a sermon, but that ought to be supplementary to what happens in your prayer closet.

Given these objections, one can clearly surmise they arise from lukewarm bodies.

What do We Do About It?

We need to be active in whatever local body we find ourselves in.

He gave some to be apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, for the equipping of the saints, for the work of service, and for the building up of the body of Christ, until we all come into the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, into a complete man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so we may no longer be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about with every wind of doctrine by the trickery of men, by craftiness with deceitful scheming. But, speaking the truth in love, we may grow up in all things into Him, who is the head, Christ Himself, from whom the whole body is joined together and connected by every joint and ligament, as every part effectively does its work and grows, building itself up in love.

Ephesians 4:11-16 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Each of us has been bestowed with a unique set of giftings by God. These are to be used for the building up of the body. This cannot be done if one deprives the local assembly of the use of their gifts. We are designed to be in fellowship with other believers, and it is the only place where one can mature into a complete man. That term doesn’t exclude the ladies, either.

What is inherently necessary, though, is fellowship. There is no other way to ‘grow up’ in the fullness of Christ. Oh sure, we can always hope to have a Damascus Road experience, but those seem to be extremely rare.

When we forsake the assembly… It is a way to deny the headship of Christ.

I know all about kvetching over how church doesn’t meet my felt needs. But it’s not supposed to do that. The worship isn’t for me, it’s for Jesus. The assembly isn’t for me, it’s for the entire body. My comfort ought not to be a concern; I have a home.

Instead of finding a plethora of excuses for not attending a local assembly, why not do it God’s way despite the leadership or direction of the body?

Let us look forward to assembling with our brothers and sisters. Let us be prepared to do it the right way. Be ready to give something away and not seek something to scratch our own itch.

Let us firmly hold the profession of our faith without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to spur one another to love and to good works. Let us not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but let us exhort one another, especially as you see the Day approaching.

Hebrews 10:23-25 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

There is not much time left. Love your brothers and sisters, spurring each other to love and good works!

In Dependence Day

On By TimIn Acts 17, Daily WalkLeave a comment

I have been giving some thought to the significance of this day. In the United States, 4 July is the day we commemorate independence from the tyranny of the crown. One of the major themes of the day is freedom! It is in that light that we ought to point this day to Jesus.

Then Paul stood in the middle of the Areopagus, and said: “Men of Athens, I perceive that in all things you are very religious. For as I passed by and looked up at your objects of worship, I found an altar with this inscription:
TO THE UNKNOWN GOD.
Whom you therefore unknowingly worship, Him I proclaim to you.
“God who made the world and all things in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by hands. Nor is He served by men’s hands, as though He needed anything, since He gives all men life and breath and all things. He has made from one blood every nation of men to live on the entire face of the earth, having appointed fixed times and the boundaries of their habitation, that they should seek the Lord so perhaps they might reach for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us. ‘For in Him we live and move and have our being.’ As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are His offspring.’
“Therefore since we are the offspring of God, we ought not to suppose that the Deity is like gold or silver or stone or an engraved work of art or an image of the reflection of man. God overlooked the times of ignorance, but now He commands all men everywhere to repent. For He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by a Man whom He has appointed, having given assurance of this to all men by raising Him from the dead.”

Acts 17:22–31 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

You may wonder why I am citing this portion of Scripture. Perhaps it is because of the similarities of the celebrations of this day with that of honoring an unknown god (a whole other post.). Paul pointed to these men of Athens, noting their religious sincerity. Today’s celebration for many is an homage to an unknown god. I want to proclaim this God to you; He Who has provided you your freedom. This God doesn’t live in man-made temples, nor does He need anything that we can provide.

The Yoke of Bondage

Paul understood clearly the mission of Jesus Christ. He has come to set us free from bondage. But what does that mean, to be in bondage?

What then? Shall we sin because we are not under the law but under grace? God forbid! Do you not know that to whom you yield yourselves as slaves to obey, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness? But thanks be to God, for you were slaves of sin, but you have obeyed from the heart that form of teaching to which you were entrusted, and having been freed from sin, you became the slaves of righteousness.
I speak in human terms because of the weakness of your flesh, for just as you have yielded your members as slaves to impurity and iniquity leading to more iniquity, even so now yield your members as slaves to righteousness unto holiness. For when you were the slaves of sin, you were free from righteousness. What fruit did you have then from the things of which you are now ashamed? The result of those things is death. But now, having been freed from sin and having become slaves of God, you have fruit unto holiness, and the end is eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Romans 6:15–23 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Paul is stating that if we yield our bodies toward sin, which is some moral decadence, we become enslaved to that. For some of us who struggle with addiction, we can understand. I do not wish to make light of addiction, but I will offer an easily understandable example.

Remember back to the first time you tried your favorite dessert. It could be a chocolate cake or crème Brulee… Even something more exotic. Remember the sensations of the first taste, and how you just wanted to experience that forever. I am willing to say that while you may enjoy these favorite treats, it is almost impossible to recreate that first experience. Sometimes, our physical bodies send us sensations of intense cravings for these things. The cravings we experience couldn’t exist without our first indulgence. With desserts, we can often partake, but overdoing it creates problems. The issue is, we clearly understand how to alleviate the real pangs that come with our own desires. That is part of the bondage to which this is speaking.

I know my example used something as innocuous as dessert, but some do have real struggles with that. Your body just wants a little more. It is the same thing with bigger issues. You can ask a millionaire, “How much money is enough?” The answer will be a little more. It goes with almost anything… We want newer and better clothes, a better car, a bigger house. The addict just wants to keep the high going. But at what cost? That is the weakness of the flesh… It always wants just a little more.

Some of these things are inherently bad for us and maybe detrimental (to us or even others.) Sin comes with this same bondage. In our own selves, we just want a little more. We think nobody will know. With those secret things, nobody else gets hurt. It is still bondage. Paul goes on to say what the result of all those things… Death. What advantage do we have from these things?

If you do too many drugs, it may result in an overdose, and you may die. The same holds true for too much booze, too many cigarettes, even too much chocolate cake.

Presenting ourselves to these desires leads to enslavement. It is a circular cycle of repetition. Presenting ourselves to sin leads to a suppression of the knowledge of God.

The wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth through unrighteousness.

Romans 1:18 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

We could think that the suppression of the knowledge of God may be for us only. More likely, it will also spread to others. Sin affects ourselves and will inevitably affect those around us. We don’t only present ourselves to bondage and suppression.

Because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him or give thanks to Him as God, but became futile in their imaginations, and their foolish hearts were darkened.

Romans 1:21 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Sin brings death. It works collectively. It leads to futility. Of course, the world understands this futility by another name, entropy.

There is freedom. The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ!

Independence

It is only in Jesus that we can be free from this yoke of bondage to sin and death. In His early ministry, there was a conversation Jesus had with Nicodemus, a teacher in Israel. Most of us Christians know of the conversation, and some who are not Christian may know. That is where John 3:16 comes: For God so loved the world that He gave His only unique Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. The continuing conversation goes like this:

For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. He who believes in Him is not condemned. But he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. This is the verdict, that light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For everyone who does evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. But he who does the truth comes to the light, that it may be revealed that his deeds have been done in God.”

John 3:17–21 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

There’s that circular cycle of bondage again. There is also that dire verdict of condemnation that abides on all outside of Jesus Christ. The good news is that we’ve all really been set free.

For freedom Christ freed us. Stand fast therefore and do not be entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

Galatians 5:1 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

What do I mean by “we’ve all been set free?”

Jesus’ death on the cross was the payment that sin demanded.

He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.

John 2:1 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

You’re reading this for a reason. If you aren’t a Christian and want freedom from the bondage, it’s an easy thing.

But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart.” This is the word of faith that we preach: that if you confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved, for with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes in Him will not be ashamed.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is generous toward all who call upon Him. For, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

Romans 10:8–13 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

One must first Acknowledge that Jesus is Who He claimed to be, and that He died and rose again. That He is the very same Lord you are calling upon. The next step is to Believe it all to be true. When you acknowledge Him for Who He is, and Believe He is Who He is, then Confess it with your mouth. The promise is there: “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” If you are calling on Jesus Christ, the God-man, you will be saved and set free.

What of the Christian who is stuck in a seeming circular cycle of bondage?

It’s the same way for you. Jesus has already given you victory over sin. If you want it, believe it. Confess your sin to Him. Of course, you’re going to have to not present your members to that enslavement. Yes, it may be difficult, but you already have victory. Trust Jesus for that and deny your body what it thinks it wants. The first baby steps will be very hard. It’s just like exercising your muscles. You might have to say no a hundred or more times, but keep exercising the ‘no’ muscle.

Always know that Jesus came to set the captives of sin free…

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed; to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.”

Luke 4:18–19 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

In Jesus there is true independence from bondage.

Dependence

Even the very freedom that God gives is an innate acknowledgment that everything we have is dependent upon Him.

“God who made the world and all things in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by hands. Nor is He served by men’s hands, as though He needed anything, since He gives all men life and breath and all things. He has made from one blood every nation of men to live on the entire face of the earth, having appointed fixed times and the boundaries of their habitation, that they should seek the Lord so perhaps they might reach for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us. ‘For in Him we live and move and have our being.’ As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are His offspring.’

Acts 17:24–28 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

He made it all. Everything we have comes from His hand.

He is the image of the invisible God and the firstborn of every creature. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they are thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers. All things were created by Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. He is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that in all things He may have the preeminence. For it pleased the Father that in Him all fullness should dwell, and to reconcile all things to Himself by Him, having made peace through the blood of His cross, by Him, I say—whether they are things in earth, or things in heaven.

Colossians 1:15–20 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Paul is telling us that Jesus is the image of the invisible God. He is also the firstborn of every creature. Importantly, we see the words that all things were created by Him and for Him. This precludes this Firstborn from being a simple man, or even a created thing. It demands that He is God, and He is. It’s a simple thing: we are made by Him for Him. And only in Him… This Jesus… do all things hold together.

We are clearly dependent upon Him, even for our freedom.

“Therefore since we are the offspring of God, we ought not to suppose that the Deity is like gold or silver or stone or an engraved work of art or an image of the reflection of man. God overlooked the times of ignorance, but now He commands all men everywhere to repent. For He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by a Man whom He has appointed, having given assurance of this to all men by raising Him from the dead.”

Acts 17:29–31 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Back to Paul and his speech at the Areopagus. We are the offspring of God, created by Him and for Him. He is not some “bearded white guy in the clouds.” He isn’t the dead man portrayed on the cross at the end of a rosary. He isn’t limited by the vain imaginings of any man.

He commands all to repent! That is, to change their mind and the way they are going. Those who don’t know Jesus are condemned already. They can change that.

If you are a Christian and aren’t walking in the Light, change that. That is what is being said. Stop the way you’re going and turn around.

There is an appointed day of judgment for the world. It is a Man, the God-Man Jesus Christ. He will judge the world. The promise is that God raised Him from the dead. Just like cited above, “This is the word of faith that we preach: that if you confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved, for with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth, confession is made unto salvation.” (Romans 10:8b–10.)

Celebrate your in-dependence.