by Terry Laughlin | Oct 7, 2018 | Christian Living Truth's
The Necessity of a Sin Exposed Church
From the time God raised up what we would recognize as the church structure to now, there has been sin in the camp which is eventually exposed. When Moses went up Mt. Sinai (Exodus 32) Aaron was appointed as the Lord’s representation to watch over the people of God. The people God rescued out of Egypt forced Aaron to build them a Golden Calf of which he made and then lied about. (Exodus 32:3-4; 32:34) The Bible says Aaron led them into great sin. (Exodus 32:21) There is also the account of Eli’s wicked sons. The Bible says “Eli’s sons were wicked men; they had no regard for the Lord.” (1 Samuel 2:1) “This sin of the young men was very great in the Lord’s sight, they were treating the Lord’s offering with contempt.” (1 Samuel 2: 17) The Bible says, “…They slept with the women who served at the entrance to the tent of meeting.” (1 Samuel 2:22) The priest Eli’s oversight was so poor, the Bible says, “…a man of God” (1 Samuel 2:27) went to pronounce judgement. The Hebrew for “A man of God” here is likely an appellation or rather an indicator of a prophet of God. (Judges; Samuel; Kings; Spence-Jones, H. D. M. (Ed.). (1909). 1 Samuel (p. 55). London; New York: Funk & Wagnalls Company.)
Their sin was so great in the sight of the Lord, Israel “lost thirty thousand foot soldiers. The Ark of God was captured and the [two wicked sons of Eli] died.” (1 Samuel 4:10-11) God’s chastisement was so heavy, Eli dies from hearing the news of the capture of the Ark of God, and that his two sons were dead. (1 Samuel 4:18) So horrific was the consequences of sin in the church the daughter-in-law of Eli – went into labor, she was overcome and died, her new born son lived and was named “Ichabod” meaning glory. (Achtemeier, P. J., Harper & Row and Society of Biblical Literature. (1985). In Harper’s Bible dictionary (1st ed., p. 416). San Francisco: Harper & Row.)
The last words from Eli’s daughter-in-law lips were “…the Glory has departed from Israel.” (1 Samuel 4:22) The Hebrew word “Glory” (כָּבוֹד kāḇôḏ) means the majesty or glorious presence of God. (Exodus 29:34; Baker, W., & Carpenter, E. E. (2003). The complete word study dictionary: Old Testament (p. 493). Chattanooga, TN: AMG Publishers.; Swanson, J. (1997). Dictionary of Biblical Languages with Semantic Domains : Hebrew (Old Testament) (electronic ed.). Oak Harbor: Logos Research Systems, Inc.)
Bibles which translate the word Glory as capitalized have the correct revelation, “the presence of God Himself in Israel was no longer there.” (Merrill, E. H. (1985). 1 Samuel. In J. F. Walvoord & R. B. Zuck (Eds.), The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures (Vol. 1, p. 436). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.; Youngblood, R. F., Bruce, F. F., & Harrison, R. K., Thomas Nelson Publishers (Eds.). (1995). In Nelson’s new illustrated Bible dictionary. Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, Inc.; Easton, M. G. (1893). In Easton’s Bible dictionary. New York: Harper & Brothers.)
The Old Testament holds the account of King David, his sin with Bathsheba. Just as God sent a man of God to address the sin of Eli’s poor overseeing the church. God sends the Prophet Nathan to deal with King David. Nathan’s rebuke sets the truth before us, “by doing this you have made the enemies of the LORD show utter contempt…” (2 Samuel 12:13 NIV)
In the New Testament we see sin in the camp of the Corinthian church. In his first letter the Apostle Paul dealt with serious doctrinal errors, moral sins and irregularities of Christian living including disorderly conduct in worship. In Paul’s second letter to the Corinthian church he lays out the antidote for the church which was overcome with self-indulgence, a world view and the deception of the devil. In 2 Corinthians we read, “Even if I caused you sorrow by my letter, I do not regret it. Though I did regret it—I see that my letter hurt you, but only for a little while — yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us. Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. See what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done. At every point you have proved yourselves to be innocent in this matter.” (2 Corinthians 7:8-11)
The truth is, as we look at the Old and New Testaments, there comes a time when rebuke is necessary. When the church allows sin in the camp to go unchallenged so they can find favor with the crowd, trouble escalates, God continues to be hurt and His work is publicly mocked. Sin in the church breeds a desire to be seen in leadership position with no hunger for a relationship with the Lord. Thus the pulpit is cheapened and God’s genuine presence is gone, “Ichabod” might as well be the sign over the door of that church. Sin is like a disease, if it is dealt with at the right time it can be eradicated, if not it can become an incurable growth with effects which scare the lives of many for years and years.
Paul says, “Godly sorrow brings repentance…” True repentance is demonstrated by a life that now lives for the Lord. A person actually sees their sin as God sees their sins. A person who has true Godly sorrow can be molded, equipped and empowered for the work of the Lord. (Barclay, W. (Ed.). (1975). The letters to the Corinthians (p. 227). Philadelphia, PA: The Westminster John Knox Press.; Radmacher, E. D., Allen, R. B., & House, H. W. (1997). The Nelson Study Bible: New King James Version (2 Co 7:10). Nashville: T. Nelson Publishers.; Garland, D. E. (1999). 2 Corinthians (Vol. 29, p. 357). Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers.)
Paul writes, “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret.” The Psalmist, David gives us this understanding from the truth he reveals in Psalms 51. “Against you [God] I have sinned.” (Psalm 51:4) “Create in me a pure heart and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. …grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” (Psalm 51:11-12)
This truth is an ongoing active heart which desires to walk in step with the Holy Spirit of Christ which glorifies God and Christ. This intrigues others to trust in God. Godly sorrow puts us in a right heart by:
- Realizing our sins in the past and present hurts the Lord and then causes people to question God’s ability to save sinners from the sins which holds them in bondage.
- Realizing our sins past and present had and continues to have negative consequences which hurt all of God’s creation in some way.
- Realizing only God knows what is deep within mankind’s spiritual heart. (Jeremiah 17:9-10) Thus we should pray, “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts. And see if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way of everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24)
An unknown author wrote, “There is a radical distinction between natural regret and God-given repentance. The flesh can feel remorse, acknowledge its evil deeds, and be ashamed of itself. However, this sort of disgust with past actions can be quickly shrugged off, and the individual can soon go back to his old wicked ways. Out of a list of ten men in the Bible who said ‘I have sinned.’ Scripture teaches only five produced the fruit of repentance. They were David (2 Sam. 12:13), Nehemiah (Nehemiah 1:6), Job (Job 42:5, 6), Micah (Micah 7:9), and the prodigal son (Luke 15:18).” – H.G.B. (Galaxie Software. (2002). 10,000 Sermon Illustrations. Biblical Studies Press.;)
King Saul was sorry for the consequences of sin he found himself in, King David was sorry he broke the heart of God, knew his sin was keeping him from God’s presence and the consequences of his sins brought contempt on the Lord’s work. (Psalm 51)
Just like in the Bible sin in the camp opens the doors to the judgement of God – there has been and there are times in the modern day church, God has exposed and judge sin. Today, as you read the so called “I have sinned” confessions, it is clear, regret from consequence is the motivator of such pronouncements. What is missing is Godly sorrow. There needs to be the fruit of repentance which is careful not break the heart of God, protects His good name, and invites the Lord to continue to do a good work in us.
Godly sorrow is reflected in the prayer of Nehemiah, “…When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven. [You] keep [your] covenant of love with those who love [you] and obey your commands. …I confess the sins we Israelite’s, including myself and my father’s house, have committed against you. We acted wickedly toward you. We have not obeyed the commands, decrees and laws [of the Lord]. …O Lord, let your ears be attentive of this, your servant [is praying], your servants who delight in revering your name.” (Nehemiah 1:1-11)
The truth to catch in this passage of Scripture is “servants who delight in revering your name.” “Revering (יָרֵא yārēʾ) is to respect, to have a reverent fear of the Lord. People who fear the Lord become faithful, are trustworthy because healthy Biblical fear of God constrains Christians to live morally. (Exodus 18:21; Baker, W., & Carpenter, E. E. (2003). The complete word study dictionary: Old Testament (p. 470). Chattanooga, TN: AMG Publishers.)
The fear of the Lord is tied closely with revering God. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge” (Proverbs 1:7) The Bible says, “Love the Lord your God with your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength.” (Deuteronomy 6:5)
In the time of Samuel, when sin in the church was not Biblically repented of, there was a change in the leadership and the Lord dealt with the unrepentant. Just as Samuel’s mother, Hannah, “asked of the Lord for him.” (1 Samuel 1:20) The church needs to ask God to raise up prophets like Samuel. Unlike the Priest Eli and his wicked sons, Hophni and Phineas, who had no regard for the Lord. Samuel, “served as judge, priest and prophet, keeping the good name of the Lord before the people he served. Samuel was God’s chosen instrument” (Who’s Who in the Bible, “Samuel, page 580-581) to replace the poor leadership which had no Godly sorrow. Samuel did not cheapen the pulpit, even though he was often exposed to the “lewd behavior of Eli’s sons. Samuel remained steadfast in his love for the Lord.” (Who’s Who in the Bible, “Samuel, page 581) The Bible says Samuel was known as “the man of God; …highly respected…” (1 Samuel 9:6)
In the time of sin in the camp, God raised up the prophet Samuel, to replace a ministry which had no desire to have Godly sorrow. In the time of King Saul, who had no reverence for Lord, God raised up King David to reign over Israel. In the time of the Corinth Church, God raised up the Apostle Paul to write a letter to a sin cursed church, pointing them to Godly sorrow. When sin is exposed in the church, a modern day true teacher of God’s Word must teach on Godly sorrow.
Does your relationship, life and ministry, reflect a Biblical understanding of Godly sorrow? Is God’s heart first on your mind? Is it on your heart to protect His good name? Are we inviting Him to continue to do a work in us? (Philippians 1:6)
by Terry Laughlin | Aug 22, 2018 | Angels
Mankind Does Not Become Angels
Have you ever heard phrases like – “Heaven just got another angel” or “God just needed another angel” when a loved one has passed on? There is also that familiar, “You just earned your wings by doings such and such.” First let us administer grace – If someone is just using a phrase to describe they believe someone has gone to heaven, take it as it is. However, if someone truly believes people do become angels when Christians move from this world into heaven, it is imperative the church aggressively responds to her call preach the Word of God on the truths of angels and mankind.
There are many truths found in the Word of God which teach us there are clear distinctions of angels and human beings. In Job we read of angels being created before creation of the earth. (Job 38:4-8) Psalm 148: 2 and 5 tell us God created angles. In Genesis we read of God creating man and woman. There are passages of Scripture we read of angels appearing in human form (Genesis 18:1-15; Genesis 19; Judges 2:1; 6:11-22; Daniel 18:5; Hebrews 13:2) There are no Scriptures which says a fallen angel took on the form of mankind and there are no references to a man appearing as a righteous angel or fallen angel, especially after death.
In the Holy Scriptures we read of Elijah and Moses being seen in glorious splendor with Jesus at His transfiguration – they were recognized and nothing is said of them being angels. (Matthew 17:1-8; Mark 9:2-8; Luke 9:28-36) In Jesus’ teaching of one man going to hell and another going to heaven, He speaks of them a being human, not being a fallen angel in hell or a righteous angel in heaven. (Luke 16:19-31) It is imperative that we understand, no were in Scripture does it says that angels can be redeemed. No were in Scripture does it give us an account of a fallen angel repenting, asking for forgiveness and returning to serve God, like the Apostle Paul did. (Acts 9:1-18)
What we do know is that when we die we go home to be with Jesus. The Apostle Paul wrote, “We are confident… [we] would prefer to be away from the body and home with the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 5:8) The Apostle Paul tells us in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 all Christians who have physically died, although their bodies are dead, their soul and spirit is with the Lord and they will return someday with Him, in which they will get a resurrected body of which they will be like Christ having glorified bodies, with no indication of them being angels. Our reward in this life is the opportunity to spend eternity with the Lord, not a pair of wings or being changed into an angel.
It must be understood at the present time angels are greater than us. Psalm 8:4-5, “…what is mankind that you care for them? You have made them a little lower than the angels…” However, it is interesting in 1 Corinthians the Apostle Paul gives a clear directive, “Do you not know that we will judge angels?” (1 Corinthians 6:3) The text is clear, Christians judge angels in a future time. The Greek word “judge” (κρίνω krínō) in the New Testament here means to from or give an opinion. (Zodhiates, S. (2000). The complete word study dictionary: New Testament (electronic ed.). Chattanooga, TN: AMG Publishers.) To rule over and govern. (Swanson, J. (1997). Dictionary of Biblical Languages with Semantic Domains: Greek (New Testament) (electronic ed.). Oak Harbor: Logos Research Systems, Inc.: Billy Graham, Answers, Angels, Heaven 2006)
The human conjecture of angel worship should not jade our thinking to be contrary what the Word of God teaches. Just as the angels are accountable to Jesus and are called to obey Him. Under the authority given to us in Christ we will be over angels in heaven. In due season we will understand the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 6:3 is referring to the age in which we will rule and reign with Christ.
Wise Christians choose the high road of living, steering clear of modern-day believe about angels, their concept is to trust in the whole counsel of God’s Word. In a children’s book it was written, “In heaven little girls become angels and God does just best he can with little boys.” A humorist remark about heaven which makes us chuckle. On the flip side there is a truth which should frighten us. Dreams or testimonies of family members being seen as angels are delusions coming from its source, Satan who, “masquerades as an angle of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14)
by Terry Laughlin | Aug 5, 2018 | Symbols of God
A Biblical Perspective
Have you ever driven by a medical facility and notice the symbol of a snake on a pole and wonder what are they thinking or what does that symbol mean. At first glance it might seem ill-fitting to have such an emblem as a symbol for decoration in hospitals or on pharmaceutical packaging. A Biblical view will enable us to overcome the adulterated worldview which is blinding the afflicted to the truths God has for people who are battling illnesses.
Christians want to be careful not to go beyond what is written, “Have nothing to do with godless myths…” (1 Timothy 4:7) Yet at the same, encourage, support and enable Bible teachers who have the Biblical call to “Preach the Word” so they can patiently and unashamedly correct error. (Ephesians 4:7-16;1 Timothy 1:3-4; 2 Timothy 4:2) It must be understood while teaching on the Biblical truths of Snake on a Pole Christians and non-Christians must recognize there are people who “will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around themselves a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn… to myths…” (2 Timothy 4:3-5) The Bible holds a command ordered by God to Timothy which is also for Christians who have the gift to teach God’s Word, “…command certain men not to teach false doctrines… nor devote themselves to myths… (μῦθος múthos)” (1 Timothy 1:3-4)
A key word worth taking note of is “myths” (μῦθος múthos) a word from which “mythology” is derived. “In the New Testament, “myth” does not have the meaning of being a vehicle of some lofty truth. Mostly “myths” are denoting a story of falsehoods and pretense. (Zodhiates, S. (2000). The complete word study dictionary: New Testament (electronic ed.). Chattanooga, TN: AMG Publishers.) The term “myths” (μῦθος múthos) is often translated “simply as untrue stories or false tales and is always place in an unfavorable connotation.” (Louw, J. P., & Nida, E. A. (1996). Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament: based on semantic domains (electronic ed. of the 2nd edition., Vol. 1, pp. 389–390). New York: United Bible Societies.) Merriam-Webster gives this definition, “…myths dealing with the gods, demigods, and legendary heroes of a particular people. A branch of knowledge that deals with myth, assumptions or beliefs that has grown up around someone…”
Regarding The Snake on a Pole, Monica Reyna, Communication Coordinator for American Medical Association wrote a response about the Asclepius and Caduceus which are emblems used as symbols representing the medical profession. She writes, “The single-serpent of Asclepius is the symbol of choice by scholars and those in the medical profession.” Kristen Elise Ph.D wrote, “…The other hypothesis dates to the Bible. In Biblical Lore, Moses carried a bronze staff, around which a bronze serpent was wound. Anyone bit by a serpent need only to look at the staff to be healed of the snake’s venom.” (Kristen Elise, PH.D Author of Historical and Medical Thrillers) From Wikipedia, we read, The Asclepius is, “Not to be confused with Caduceus.” In Greek mythology, the Rod of Asclepius (Ράβδος του Ασκληπιού Rábdos tou Asklipioú; U+2695 STAFF OF AESCULAPIUS) is also known as the staff of Asclepius which is a serpent-entwined rod wielded by the Greek god Asclepius, a deity associated with healing and medicine. The symbol is continued to be used in modern times. (Wilcox, Robert A; Whitham, Emma M (15 April 2003). “The symbol of modern medicine: why one snake is more than two”. Annals of Internal Medicine. 138: 673–7. doi:10.7326/0003-4819-138-8-200304150-00016. PMID 12693891. Retrieved 2007-06-15)
Monica Reyna, Communications Coordinator for American Medical Association also wrote, “The AMA symbol or staff of Asclepius is one serpent around a staff. However, there is also the “Caduceus.” According to Wikipedia, “The Caduceus “is the traditional symbol of Hermes and features two snakes winding around an often winged staff. It is often mistakenly used as a symbol of medicine…. especially in the United States. The two-snake Caduceus design has ancient and consistent associations with trade, eloquence, negotiation, wisdom… and the passage into the underworld. The modern use of the Caduceus as a symbol of medicine became established in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th century as a result of documented mistakes, misunderstandings and confusion…” According to Symbols, Signs & Flags, Yigal Ben Efraim writes, “The Caduceus is the staff carried by Hermes in Greek Mythology. The Caduceus is often mistakenly used as a symbol of medicine and medical practice (especially in North America), due to historical confusion with the traditional medical symbol, the rod of Asclepius.”
Monica Reyna writes, “The general agreement among scholars that the snake, whether it is one or two around a staff, is an appropriate symbol for the healing art. In addition to representing wisdom, learning, and fertility, it stands for longevity and the restoration of health.” (Medical Logo Change; Monica Reyna, Communications Coordinator for American Medical Ass.) The Greeks regarded snakes as sacred and used them in healing rituals to honor Asclepius, as snakes venom was thought to be remedial and their skin shedding was viewed as a symbol of rebirth and renewal. (LIVESCI=NCE, Why Is The Medical Symbol A Snake On A Stick By Remy Melina, March 09, 2011)
A person can read all they want about the Asclepius and the Caduceus along with it claims of their origin and myths. There are truths found in the Holy Scriptures about a Snake on a Pole which intrigues those who have Biblical belief in the Lord, Jesus Christ. Knowing and believing these truths establishes a saving faith in God, enriches a person’s relationship with the Lord and embraces fellowship with God and Christ through the Holy Spirit of Christ, Whom indwells believers because of genuine belief. The Message Bible says, “In the same way that Moses lifted the serpent in the desert so people could have something to see and then believe, it is necessary for the Son of Man to be lifted up—and everyone who looks up to Him, trusting and expectant, will gain a real life, eternal life.” – (Peterson, E. H. (2005). The Message: the Bible in contemporary language (John 3:14–15). Colorado Springs, CO: NavPress.)
Christians who love the Lord will have the same heart as His disciples did and ask, “What must we do to do the works God requires?” (John 6:28) Jesus’ answer was, “The work of God is this: To believe in the one He has sent.” (John 6:29) “Believe” (πιστεύω pisteúō) means to put trust in the declarations and character of God. (Zodhiates, S. (2000). The complete word study dictionary: New Testament (electronic ed.). Chattanooga, TN: AMG Publishers; Swanson, J. (1997). Dictionary of Biblical Languages with Semantic Domains: Greek (New Testament) (electronic ed.). Oak Harbor: Logos Research Systems, Inc.)
The declarations of Jesus about His call from God our Father is, “…as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him may have eternal life.” (John 3:14) True Biblical belief causes us to have a trust which enables us to apply God’s declarations. Let the Holy Spirit put in you a desire to know what Jesus was teaching about the Snake On A Pole!
Jesus was referring to Numbers 21:4-9, “From Mount Hor they set out to go around the land of Edom. And the people became impatient on the way. And the people spoke against God and against Moses, ‘Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? For there is no food and no water, and we detest this miserable food.’ Then the Lord sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people, so that many people of Israel died. And the people came to Moses and said, ‘We have sinned, for we have spoken against the Lord and against you. Pray to the Lord, that he take away the serpents from us.’ So Moses prayed for the people. And the Lord said to Moses, ‘Make a fiery [bronze] serpent and set it on a pole, and everyone who is bitten, and looks at it, will live.’ So Moses made a bronze serpent and set it on a pole. Then when anyone was bitten by a snake and looked at the bronze serpent, they lived.” (Number 21:4-9) Many scholars have placed this account to be around the eight century B.C. during the reign of Hezekiah. Numbers (Vol. 3B, p. 347). Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers.)
Knowing or arguing about the times and dates will only cause people to miss the truths in this passage of Scripture. What we do know is that Satan cannot create anything for he can only adulterate what God has created. From the very beginning in Genesis we read of evil’s handy work, the voice of Satan using the serpent’s craftiness to cause Eve to question God’s Word. (Mathews, K. A. (1996). Genesis 1-11:26 (Vol. 1A, p. 234). Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers; Jamieson, R., Fausset, A. R., & Brown, D. (1997). Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (Vol. 1, p. 19). Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc.; The Outline Bible; Genesis 3:1-20) The Apostle John gives us the identity of the source of evil in Genesis which laid down the foundation for us to live in a sin cursed world, “…I saw an angle coming down out of heaven, having the key to the Abyss and the holding in his hand a great chain. He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, or Satan and bound him for a thousand years.” (Revelations 20:1-2)
Let us catch the truths of Numbers 21 and what Jesus did on the cross.
1.) Just as Satan through the serpent moved Eve to question God, the people of God became impatient and they spoke against God and His servant Moses. They questioned His provision, they were upset because they did not have the food they wanted and they detested the food He provided calling it miserable to eat.
2.) The Bible says the Lord sent fiery serpents among the people of which many were bitten and died. God had sent quail when they complained about not having meat to eat, of which made them sick and God sends venomous snakes punishing their sins.
3.) Once the sting of sin brings death, the people of God confess their sin and they went to Moses saying, “We sinned when we spoke against God and you. Pray that the Lord will take the snakes away.” The Bible says, Moses prayed for the people.” God told Moses, “Make a snake and put it up on a pole…” The Bible says, “anyone who is bitten by a snake looked at the bronze snake, they lived.” Notice God did not answer the prayer of the people, He left the snakes among the people, letting us know the consequences of sin has a lingering affect, but looking to God will help us overcome the sting of death. This Biblical account includes four truths, judgement, repentance, forgiveness and deliverance. The major theological theme is the Lord’s provision to cover the sting of death and bring deliverance so man can overcome the cost of sin. The truth to grasp is not a magical formula for healing, but the serpent on a pole is only a symbol of salvation which would be offered by God and Christ alone.
The bronze serpent appears again in 2 Kings 18:4, “[Hezekiah] broke into pieces the bronze snake Moses had made, for up to that time the Israelite’s had been burning incense to it.” Just as King Hezekiah had to reform the people of his day, the teachers of God’s Word need to reform what the world view has adulterated and teach the truths of what God was doing in placing a bronze serpent on a pole along with what Jesus was teaching about Himself dying for the sins of the world. Mankind is always being drawn into the worship of religious relics which rob people of Holy Spirit illumination – thus needing be reminded of what Jesus said, [The time] has now come when true worshipers will worship the Father in the [Holy] Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and His worshipers must worship in Spirit and truth.” (John 4:23-24)
When Jesus was stating He was, like the snake (which represents sin and evil) was going to be lifted up He was fulfilling His calling. The Bible says, “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by His wounds you have been healed. For you were like sheep going astray, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.” (1 Peter 2:24-25) The people of God were overtaken by their sins, they were suffering the consequences of it. However, they could look to God and have the expectancy of forgiveness and deliverance. Now Christians have the promise of God’s Word, “I write this to you so that you do not sin. But if anybody does sin we have an advocate with the Father – Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only our sins, but the sins of the world.” (1 John 2:1-2)
The Holy Spirit enlightened child of God sees a Snake on a Pole only has a symbol of the God who judges, Eliphal (el’-i-fal), the God whom is salvation and the God of deliverance, Eliphalet (e-lif’-a-let). (Smith, S., & Cornwall, J. (1998). In The exhaustive dictionary of Bible names (p. 65). North Brunswick, NJ: Bridge-Logos.)
In his work among those whom were intrigued with many gods, the Apostle Paul said, “For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription, “TO AN UNKNOWN GOD.” So you are ignorant of the very thing you worship – and this is what I am going to proclaim to you.” (Acts 17:23) Then he goes on to proclaim the truths of God to a culture that is intrigued with “myths.”
We live in a time of which people can learn about many viewpoints, it is imperative that we like the Apostle Paul – Biblically address all false teachings and myths with the whole council of God’s Word. For many have had their viewpoint adulterated by a world view. Although it is God who has given people the gift of healing it is imperative to know God is Jehovah-Rephael – God is healer; medicine of God. Our prayer is that all will hear His truth in their spiritual hearts, “I am the Lord who heals you.” (Exodus 15:26)
by Terry Laughlin | Jul 14, 2018 | Holiness
The fall time of the year is harvest time and, for many farmers, a time to plant seeds for a future harvest. A farmer prepares his fields, fertilizes, and cultivates. He spends long hours planning and working as well as pondering on the hazards and benefits of being a farmer. He works hard knowing full well the result of the harvest is dependent on forces outside himself. Everyone knows that farmers cannot cause the seeds to germinate, nor can they produce the right combination of rainfall, sunshine, and temperature needed to bring the harvest in. Farmers are dependent on God. That is a fact that cannot be changed.
However, diligent farmers know that they must do their part if they are going to enjoy a harvest good enough to pay the bills and feed those in this world. In a sense, farmers are in a partnership with God, receiving the benefits only after fulfilling their responsibility.
Deuteronomy 28 holds blessings for the people in a nation that Biblically fears the Lord as well as curses for those who willfully live as they please. “The LORD will send a blessing on your barns and on everything you put your hand to. The LORD will establish you as His holy people…, if you keep the commands of the LORD your God and walk in His ways… The LORD will open the heavens, the storehouse of His bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands. However, if you do not obey the LORD your God and do not carefully follow all His commands and decrees…, all these curses will come upon you and overtake you…” (Deuteronomy 28:8-10, 12, 15)
Let the Holy Spirit place this truth within your spiritual heart, “establish you as His Holy people.” There is a Biblical truth that must be grasped, “Holiness is a joint venture with God.” (Jim Bridges) No one can enjoy the benefits of living a holy life without the enabling of God, or without fulfilling their responsibilities. Just as diligent farmers prepare for a future harvest, Christians must prepare Biblically for the harvest that is promised in having Jesus Christ as personal Savior and Lord.
Just as farmers must break the hard ground to plant seeds for the harvest, the Holy Spirit must break the spiritual heart with the written Word of God, “Make every effort… to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14)
d obedience to the law of nature for farmers to reap a harvest. Farmers must learn from others who know about farming. You must learn from those within whom the Lord is establishing a life of holiness if you are going to enjoy the harvest that is promised in pursuing holiness. There are Christians who are diligent, studying the laws and precepts of God’s Word. There are Christians whom the Lord is doing a work in and through.
Just as farmers seek to learn new and better ways to plant seed, fertilize and cultivate for a harvest, you must seek to learn from God’s Word, Jesus said, “…the seed is the word of God.” (Luke 8:11)
by Terry Laughlin | Jul 14, 2018 | Foundational Truth's on Prayer
Examining the Prayer Life of Christ
“During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, He offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save Him from death, and He was Heard because of His reverent submission.” (Hebrews 5:7) Matthew Henry wrote: “The prayers and supplications that Christ offered up were joined with strong cries and tears, herein setting us an example not only to pray, but to be fervent and [ be urgently persistent] in prayer.”
The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia tells us that prayer is “Communion with God, usually comprising of petition, adoration, praise, confession and thanksgiving. The ultimate object of prayer in both Old and New Testament is not merely the good of the petitioner, but the honor of God’s Name.” The only prayers that are heard or answered yes to, are those that are offered up for the glory of God. Salvation’s are given when people pray that God will glorify Himself in the redeeming of a sinful soul. I would propose to you that during the days of Jesus’ life on this earth, He prayed “Divine Petitions” that were for the honor of God, His Father. Christians are to look to Him and say, “Lord teach me to pray.” (Luke 11:1)
Just what did Jesus pray for while He walked on this earth?
Prayers Prayed During His Ministry
The Scriptural accounts of the prayer life of Christ may be divided into four different groups. We have already considered one group which was “Prayers Prayed at Critical Moments of Christ’s Life.” The other groups are, “Prayers that Christ Prayed During His Ministry,” “Prayers at His Miracles,” and “Prayers that Christ Prayed for Others.” Let us first start with “Prayers Prayed During His Ministry.”
Luke 5:16 says “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” Mark 6:44 says, “After leaving them, He went up on the mountainside to pray.” Both of these passages of Scripture follow the Biblical accounts of miracles performed by Jesus Christ. In Luke Jesus heals a man from leprosy and in the Book of Mark, Jesus had just fed thousands from five loaves of bread and two fish. In both of these passages of Scripture we read of Jesus’ habitual life of prayer, even during very busy times. Great crowds would come to hear and to be healed of their illnesses. Never has anyone done as much public good as Christ has done and we read clearly that Jesus made time for heartfelt prayer. He prayed, though He had so much preaching, teaching, healing and training to do. He was much in prayer, often in prayer and at times long in prayer. He needed, desired and enjoyed fellowship with God His Father in prayer while on this earth. Jesus set the example for us. Thus, Christians need, should desire and enjoy the fellowship that comes with being with our Lord alone in prayer.
When Christians begin to be used of God in some powerful way they must be much more in prayer and at times long in prayer and most certainly alone with God in prayer. When crowds begin to gather, the Holy Spirit will prompt Christians to seek places where they can get alone with God and pray. This will protect them from distractions and ostentation. These are two things that have destroyed many a child of God, brought disgrace upon many a ministry and brought Christ to public disgrace. It is only good wisdom for Christians to order their affairs in a way that their public work with the Lord does not destroy quality prayer time. Christians must do as Christ did, which was to get alone with God in prayer.
Jesus prayed at His miracles
Scripture records Christ praying after God had used Him greatly in ministry and at His miracles. This is the third group in which Jesus’ prayers may be placed. Jesus prayed at His miracles. In Mark 6:41 we read of Jesus, “Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, He gave thanks.” Before the miracle of feeding the five thousand men, not counting women and children, our Lord prayed. Jesus looking up to heaven and giving thanks shows us clearly that we should recognize that God is sovereign, the supplier of all good things. God is the one who is able to provide for the needs of people in every realm of life. Not only does this show the fitness and correctness of grace before meals, it shows forth that God is to be sought for the provision of food for the hungry.
Another time Jesus prayed before a miracle was in healing of a deaf and mute man, thus showing us that divine petition gets deliverance of bodily afflictions as God wills. Mark 7:32, 34 says; “…some people brought to Him a man who was deaf and could hardly talk and they begged Him to place His hand on the man. He looked up to heaven and with a deep sigh, said ‘Ephpharha! which means opened!’” Our text says with a deep sigh (stenaco) meaning here to be a silent prayer offered up with a heartfelt groan. Dr. Walter Wessell put it this way, “…sighing that accompanied the concealed communion of Jesus with the Father.” Jesus was not sighing here because of the difficulty in working the miracle or obtaining power from God to perform it. Rather He was touched by human infirmity and was sympathetic with the affliction of the man.
From that communion came forth a single spoken Word meaning to be opened (dianoigo). As it is used here it means “To open the ears, eyes, understanding, and spiritual heart.” (Zodhiates Word Studies) In other words, this miracle was performed for the purpose of bringing a physical release accompanied by spiritual understanding of the heart for spiritual things. Christ speaks here as one who has authority and power. Our Lord had such power in prayer because of His heartfelt compassion and the communion He had with His Father through prayer. I am personally convinced that it is possible for Christians to obtain such a prayer life with the Lord that they can receive such compassion for the physically afflicted. When led by the Holy Spirit, they can pray with inward groaning, which enables them to pray forth words of healing.
Another time when Jesus’ prayers which brought forth a miracle was at the raising of Lazarus. John 11:1 says, “…Jesus looked up and said ‘Father, I thank you that you have heard Me.’” Often we read of Jesus looking up or making some expression that shows clearly that His heart and mind were focused toward heaven, toward His Father. The secret to receiving miracles is not lifting of the eyes or hands, but the heartfelt prayer which is ascended upward to God. In raising of Lazarus, Christ was looking beyond the grave, overlooking the difficulties at hand and fixing His eyes upon the Father who loved Him. Christians must look beyond their circumstances, set all affections upon their God who loves them, and enter into His presence through Christ who purchased them with His blood. Our Lord addresses God with such great assurance and confidence, “…I thank you that you have heard Me.” (John 11:41) The Greek word for “heard” (akauso) here means, “…To hear so as to grant what is spoken.” Jesus who was to defeat death just after the Passover, speaks forth His authority over death and raises Lazarus from the dead.
Christ sets forth an example for us. First, in prayer we are to call to God our Father and draw close to Him with humble reverence and yet with a holy boldness. The best way to do this is to understand what it means to abide in Christ. “Abide” (meinette) means “…to remain in or with someone, to be and remain united with him, one with him in heart, mind and will.” It is then Christians can have full fellowship with God and pray Holy Spirit led prayers. Second, in our prayers we must praise Him. Going to the mercy seat with a thankful heart, acknowledging Him for former mercies received. Pray for miracles that will cause people to see and believe in Christ and that glorify God.
That is why Jesus said in His prayer, “Father, I thank you that you have heard Me. I knew that you always hear Me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent Me.” (John 11:41-42) Matthew Henry in his exposition of John 11:41 wrote; “First, Christ speaks of this miracle as answer to prayer. Secondly, Christ is assured that His prayer was answered, therefore, He professes.” As Christ honors and has faith in prayer, so should Christians.
Merril C. Tenney gives us this understanding: “He thanked God for already answering. So great was Jesus’ faith in the Father that He knew that the miracle was necessary to His mission, therefore it was as good as done when He prayed.” The faith that Christ was standing on was the fact that Lazarus was going to be raised from the dead. We know that Christ knew His mission regarding Lazarus before He even went to Bethany. Jesus said to His disciples when He heard that Lazarus was sick, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.” (John 11:4) He most certainly understood from communion with His Father in prayer what His task was. He clearly told His disciples that “Lazarus is dead.” (John 11:14) and He said, “I am going to wake him up.” (John 11:11) H. R. Reynalds writes; “This is the true mystery and meaning of prayer. [Jesus’] words confess the Divine eternal will [of God].” Christians who remain united with Christ in heart, mind, and will, can be used of God to pray for awesome miracles that would bring glory to Christ and God.
In our church office we have a CD with the testimony of Joshua Youssef on it. He is the son of Dr. Michael Youssef and while he was living in disobedience, he was chastised by the Lord. Our Lord’s disciplinary actions toward Joshua ended with him in the emergency room, with his best friend out on a river in a life threatening situation. A Holy Spirit filled nurse who knew what it meant to truly abide in Christ was helping to attend to the wounds of Joshua Youssef. She asked Joshua if she could pray for him and his friend, upon which she was given permission. The Holy Spirit literally revealed to this nurse the will of God as she prayed. The prayer was answered exactly as the nurse spoke in her prayer. Joshua’s friend was rescued, saved from a situation in which almost everyone has died. If it be God’s will and as He leads you, you could pray Holy Spirit led prayers for the glory of Christ.
Jesus prayed for others who are being attacked by Satan
Another portion of Scripture that recorded the prayers of Christ and can be placed in a fourth group teaches how Jesus prayed for others who are being attacked by Satan. In last week’s message I discussed in more detail of Christ praying on the Cross for those who crucified Him and a little about Him praying for His disciples and those who would come to believe through their message. Today I want to show the necessity of and the power of Christ praying for those under attack by Satan.
In the King James Bible, Luke 22: 31, 32 says, “…the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not; and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.” There is a reason why the King James Bible used the word “you” in verse 31 and in verse 32 it uses the word “thee.” You see the Greek word for you (hymas) in verse 31 is plural. This refers to the other disciple as well as Peter. The Word “you” or “thee” (sou) in verse 32 is singular referring to Peter directly. That is very significant to know. Satan was not only going to bring a great trial upon Peter, but to the other disciples as well. Let us remember, all the disciples failed the trial in Gethsemane.
Let us not deceive ourselves, it is not only those who boasted as loudly as Peter who will be tempted by Satan to turn from their faith and commitments to the Lord. But, all good soldiers of Christ are subject to Satan’s deceptions and attacks. Matthew Henry wrote in exposition, “Peter, who used to be the mouth of the rest in speaking to Christ, is here made the ear of the rest and designed for warning to them all.” The more God wants to use a child of God and the more a Christian becomes useful in the building of the true church, the more Satan wants to destroy him and his works with the Lord. Satan really longed to get Peter. However, Jesus gave powerful encouragement to Peter and for the Children of God as well, “But, I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail.” (Luke 22:32) Jesus’ prayer was not that the disciples or Peter be spared from this trial, but that Peter’s faith may not fail. His faith, (pistis) here means that which came from hearing Christ and a faith in God that would see him through in his calling. He would complete all that God had called him to do through a faith that would cause him trust in the forgiveness and empowerment of God, which would enable him to keep the others steadfast.
Dr. Walter L. Liefield has a unique teaching about the words “may not fail.” (me eklipe) He says this means that Peter “may not give out or may not disappear completely as the sun in a total eclipse.” In other words, even though Peter’s denial was serious and showed a shrinking in faith. Peter chose to believe and trust in Christ and God, not like Judas Iscariot whose faith did completely fail. Peter returned, but Judas Iscariot did not. Jesus saying “…and when you have turned back,” reveals to us that Jesus knew what lay ahead for Peter and He prayed for God’s perfect will for Peter to be done. Jesus’ prayer empowered Peter to achieve what Judas Iscariot could not do on his own.
Please note: All true disciples of Christ, who in their hearts truly desire and choose to follow Christ, have Jesus’ “Divine Petitions” given on their behalf before God’s Throne. These Christians, though they may fall, will not utterly be cast down, even in their greatest temptations and trials. Christ has prayed for them. Christ’s prayers were not general and they are particular to us personally as it was for Peter when it comes to Satan’s attacks. In truth, if a child of God was left to himself, he would eventually be completely destroyed. Because of Christ’s loving intercessions for Christians, they will be empowered to return to trust in Him if they should shrink in their faith. This is a great encouragement to all who know Jesus and who know the power of His Divine Petitions. It should also encourage Christians to pray for those who have for some reason backslid in their relationship with Christ.
Should always pray and not give up
Christ prayed for others and Christians need not fear Satan’s attacks while living for the Lord. Jesus is our example in prayer and he has some clear instructions to the children of God in Luke 18: 1 – 8. Luke writes, “Then Jesus told His disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.” Listen to these words of Jesus on prayer. “In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared about men. And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, ‘Grant me justice against my adversary.’ For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, ‘Even though I don’t fear God or care about men, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won’t eventually wear me out with her coming!’ And the Lord said, ‘Listen to what the unjust judge says. And will not God bring about justice for His chosen ones, who cry out to Him day and night? Will He keep putting them off? I tell you, He will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?’” (Luke 18:2-8) Luke’s statement in verse 1 is a duty to persevere in prayer. We know this, for the key word “should” or “ought” (pios to dein) means absolutely necessary that men persevere in prayer.
Just as man needs food, water, and sleep, Christians need prayer. I tell my boys often they cannot ride upon the pleasures of their parents’ prayers forever. They must let Jesus teach them to pray. Things are designed not to go well if one does not pray.
When should Christians pray? “Always” (pantote) meaning at all times. As surely as time passes by in the clock of life here, Christians must always pray. Christians are to develop a constant spirit of prayer, to maintain an unbroken consciousness of God’s presence. To be led of the Holy Spirit in prayer at all times and in all occasions. He is to walk in a constant state of prayer. The best way to do this is to take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ. The best way to overcome sin is to spend every moment in prayer. This communion with God will enable them to literally walk in step with the Holy Ghost. Jesus says “and not give up” (me egkakein) means not to lose heart, not to turn coward or give into evil.”….
Let me assure you of this, our Lord is not to be identified with the unjust judge for He is a loving God who has called His children to prayer and have communion with Him. The children of God who stay persistent in prayer will see God get His good and perfect will accomplished in and through their lives. The Christian who goes to Christ and says “Lord teach me to pray” learns to 1.) Pray through critical moments in his life. 2.) Pray God’s called ministry through, staying steadfast and he completing what His Lord as sent him to do. 3.) He prays, believing in God, asking for miracles that will only glorify God and draw people to Christ and lastly, he intercedes for his brothers and sisters in Christ, that they may overcome any attacks from their adversary. There are children of God who have learned from Jesus to pray, and discovered the joy of praying prayers led of the Holy Spirit.
One child of God who knew the prayer life of Christ and lived a life that said, “Lord Jesus, teach me to pray” was Pastor Charles Spurgeon. He wrote; “Keep the altar of prayer burning. This is the very life of all godliness. The sanctuary and family altars borrow their fires here, therefore, let this burn well. Secret devotion is the very essence, evidence, and barometer of vital Christianity. Burn here the fat of your sacrifices of time, heart and life. Let your closet-season be if possible, regular, frequent and undisturbed. Effectual prayer availeth much…” Every Christian must examine himself on this important matter. Is your prayer life lukewarm? Or is there a measure of real faith and life in your times with the Lord? Those who are taught of Christ to pray have the same heart of Christ in prayer who prayed, “Father… Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you…” Prayer warriors like Jesus have a rejoicing in Holy Spirit led prayers that glorify Christ in and through them.
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