GOD'S GRACE:
What is God's Grace?
In the New Testament, with the coming of Jesus, the word "grace" comes from the Greek word charis, which means "favor, blessing, or kindness." Grace is that God chooses to bless us instead of cursing us as our sin deserves. It is his benevolence (disposition to do good) towards the underserved. But only to those who humbled themselves before the Lord. James 4:6. Grace gives us victory over sin
2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
God gave His Son Jesus to us. When we received Jesus, we received grace. Jesus is the grace of God in us. Jesus Christ is the embodiment of grace and truth. Grace preserves us and comforts, encourages, and strengthens us 2 Corinthians 13:14; 2 Thessalonians 2:16–17; 2 Timothy 2:1.
Grace is the essence of the gospel Acts 20:24. Grace gives us “eternal encouragement and good hope” 2 Thessalonians 2:16. Paul repeatedly identified grace as the basis of his calling as an apostle Romans 15:15; 1 Corinthians 3:10; Ephesians 3:2, 7.
You received a favor even when you were unworthy. Romans 5:8 God is willing to forgive us and bless us abundantly with His grace, even if we are not worthy to receive his goodness. Hebrews 4:16, 2 Corinthians 8:9,
The Bible repeatedly calls grace a "gift" Ephesians 4:7. Completely unmerited. The gift and the act of giving have nothing at all to do with our merit or innate quality. Romans 4:4; 11:5–6; 2 Timothy 1:9–10 It is not about what you can do or what you have not done. The Bible says quite clearly that we don't deserve God's salvation. Romans 5:8–10 says, "God demonstrates His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. . . . While we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to Him through the death of His Son." It's all about what Jesus did on the cross of Calvary. The finished work of Jesus on the cross.
Grace works actively and constantly in the lives of God's people. Paul attributes the success of his ministry not to his essential work but to the grace of God which was with him" 1 Corinthians 15:10. Grace is God's sustained, benevolent act working in us, without which we can do nothing John 15: 5. Grace is more significant than our sin Romans 5:20, more abundant than we expect 1Timothy 1:14, and too marvelous for words 2 Corinthians 9:15.
What is the meaning of “grace upon grace” in John 1:16?
“Out of His fullness, we have all received grace in place of grace already given.” It means that Jesus has overcome everything in this world. We will start from the finished work of Jesus, and we will continue His ministry through the Holy Spirit. We have the assurance that we will succeed because of His grace.
Misunderstanding of God's grace:
Grace does not cover iniquities and is given to us so we can continue into sin. By the grace of God, we can overcome the works of the flesh and walk in accordance with the Word of God. How would you know that God is full of grace if you do not make mistakes or fall into sin? But God did not give us the grace to continue sinning, but for us to see that there is always hope for us to be changed by God's grace from glory to glory. Romans 5:20 (Moreover, the law entered that the offense might abound. But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more). I believe that if you sinned and asked for forgiveness, you will be forgiven immediately. A person who truly repented has no consequences for their sins—Those who receives consequences are those who repeatedly sinning and still do not obey and serve God. God said to the adulterer woman, I will not condemn you but go and sin no more. John 8:11 How would you resist sin? We have not yet resisted sin to the point of shedding your blood. Jesus already did it for us. Our only part is to submit to God resist the devil, and he will flee from us.
Our faith is by grace through Jesus Christ
1. To stand in the grace and faith
3. Be strong in grace and faith
1 Corinthians 1:4
The purpose of GRACE is to GLORY God:
2 Thessalonians 1:12
so that the name of our Lord Jesus will be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
THE PASSOVER:
Origin of the Passover
The first Passover was in Exodus 12:21–23 when God told the Israelites to sacrifice a spotless lamb and mark their doorposts with blood. Then, He would "pass over" the households that showed the blood. The lamb's blood saved the Israelites from death as it kept the destroyer from entering their homes. As a result, the Israelites were saved from the plague, and their firstborn children survived. From then on, every firstborn son of the Israelites belonged to the Lord. A sacrifice redeemed them Exodus 13: 1-2, 12; Luke 2: 22-24. The Lord told the Israelites to "observe this rite as a statute for them and their sons forever" Exodus 12:24, even when in foreign lands. That is why the Jewish religion celebrates Passover. Passover is one of the most widely celebrated Jewish holidays.
God commanded Moses to redeem the people from slavery to Pharaoh Exodus 6: 6 and for them to worship God Exodus 8: 1 Jesus Christ Himself is the Passover 1 Corinthians 5: 7.
I don’t know why they substituted the blood of Christ for what Moses did that was applied to every house. Anointing or sprinkling the blood of an animal and then replacing it with the blood of Christ is a spiritual ritual. The blood of Christ is not meant to wipe, sprinkle, or even cover anything or anyone. The blood of Jesus took away the sins of the world. We are redeemed and justified by His blood for the salvation of our souls. And we are sanctified by His Word 1 Timothy 4: 5 and protected because of our faith in His Promises Psalm 91: 10-11, 2 Thessalonians 3: 3, Psalm 121: 7-8, 1 John 5:18. God has so many promises that we must hold on to. The blood draws us closer to God Ephesians 2:13 and boldly enters His throne Hebrews 4:16.
The Passover signifies the crossing from death to life. Ephesians 2: 5
The main reason for having Passover is found in Exodus 8:1 and Exodus 9:1 in the Holy Scriptures. Here are these verses:
Exodus 8:1 (Bible of the Philippines, 1905):
"Then the Lord said to Moses, 'Go to Pharaoh and tell him, This is the Lord's command: Let my people go out to serve me.'"
Exodus 9:1 (Bible of the Philippines, 1905):
"Then the Lord said to Moses, 'Go to Pharaoh and tell him, This is the commandment of the Lord, the God of the Hebrews: Let my people go out to serve me.'"
In these verses, we see that God's main purpose was conveyed to Moses for Pharaoh (Pharaon): the liberation of His people (the Israelites) so that they could worship God. This is shown by the command to allow the people to go out to serve God. The performance of Passover was one of the steps that allowed them to be freed and have freedom to serve God in complete silence.
THE SABBATH:
Observing the Sabbath:
According to Exodus 20:8–11, the Sabbath is the seventh day of the week, on which the children of Israel were to rest, in remembrance that God created the universe in six days and then “rested” on the seventh day. Sabbath day is not just for attending church/worship services. The Sabbath command was to do no work on the Sabbath day. They observe the Sabbath because the Sabbath day is holy, Exodus 31:14-15. It means you rest in God. You will not go to your work. and you cannot even cook your food. You cannot do any work. Not just you but your son or daughter, or your male or female servant. Exodus 20:10
If you observe the Saturday Sabbath religiously and you have failed to follow one of the ten commandments, you are guilty of breaking all of it, James 2:10. Like you get angry with your fellowmen, 1 John 3:15. Even the one who told Jesus that he had obeyed the ten commandments, Mark 10:19-21, Jesus told him to sell all his property and give to the poor, but he didn't do it because his god is his wealth, Exodus 20:3. He only loved himself and did not care for others. After all, he will let go of his wealth if he loves God.
The Sabbath was given to Israel, not the church. Exodus 31: 17. The Sabbath is still Saturday, not Sunday, and has never been changed. But the Sabbath is part of the Old Testament Law, and Christians are free from the bondage of the Law Galatians 4:1-26; Romans 6:14. The church is not under the Mosaic Law. The church is under the New Covenant, established by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The New Commandment:
If Jesus gives a new commandment, what God gave to Moses is just a shadow of the good things that are coming—not the realities themselves. Hebrews 10:1. The reality, however, is found in Christ.
Jesus said, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. John 13:34
How can you say you love the God you do not see if the person you see you can not love? But because you love one another, Jesus said, For I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty. You gave me something to drink, I was a stranger, and you invited me in, Matthew 25:35. ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me,’ Matthew 25:40.
Someone asked Jesus which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses (Ten Commandment)?” God said in Mathew 22:37-39 ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.1 John 4:21. Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. Romans 13:10.
Jesus the Lord of Sabbath:
If only you had known the meaning of ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice,’ you would not have condemned the innocent. For the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.” Matthew 12:7- 8
He had never prohibited doing good on the Sabbath, especially if you have to work to feed your children. The Pharisees acted as if God had created people so that he would have someone to keep the Sabbath, but Jesus clarified that God had given the Sabbath as a gift to the people He had created. Mark 2:27
Jesus has already fulfilled the law Matthew 5:17, so He said it is finished, John 19:28-30. Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, Galatians 3:13. We are justified. He made us righteous in the sight of God.
The Sabbath is Holy:
God commanded the Sabbath to be observed because that day is holy, but now that we are in Christ, we have righteousness, holiness, and redemption,1 Corinthians 1:30. We observe Sabbath not just one day a week but always. Every day is Sabbath. We have to observe holiness, not just one day a week, but always. 1 Peter 2:9
A Sabbath-Rest for the People of God
In Jesus' day, when he was still on earth as a man, the scribes and Pharisees did nothing but watch and observe Jesus. (John 5:16:18, John 5: 8-12) They were so strict that they repeatedly accused Jesus and His disciples of breaking the Sabbath (Luke 6: 1-2).When they asked Jesus why he did not keep the Sabbath, Jesus gave an example of David, who also broke the law. (Mark 2:24-28) Jesus only showed that even though David broke the law, nothing happened, what about Jesus, the Lord of the Sabbath (Matthew 12:8), if Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath, then every day is the Sabbath day. We must have rest in His presence. Always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else. Rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5: 15-18) Every day I will praise you and extol your name forever and ever. (Psalm 145:2) We gather together whatever day it is to strengthen each other. (Hebrew 10:25) But our worship is needed every day. Because we are the temple of God He lived in us (Revelation 21:3)
Hebrews 4:1-8 1 Therefore, since the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it. 2 For we also have had the good news proclaimed to us, just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, because they did not share the faith of those who obeyed. 3 Now we who have believed enter that rest, just as God has said, “So I declared on oath in my anger. They shall never enter my rest.’” And yet his works have been finished since the creation of the world. 4 For somewhere he has spoken about the seventh day in these words: “On the seventh day God rested from all his works.” 5 And again in the passage above he says, “They shall never enter my rest.” 9 There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; 10 for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. 11 Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11:29-30
For the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.” Matthew 12:8
The Law of God:
The law of God given to Moses was a comprehensive set of guidelines to ensure that the behavior of the Israelites reflected their status as God's elect. These include moral conduct, their position as a divine example in other nations, and systematic procedures for acknowledging the holiness of God and the sinfulness of humankind. In an attempt to better understand the purpose of these laws, Jews and Christians categorized them, leading to distinguishing between moral law, ceremonial law, and judicial law in the Old Testament.
Moral Law - relate to justice and judgment and are often translated as "ordinances." based on God's holy nature. As such, the ordinances are holy, just, and unchanging. Their purpose is to promote the welfare of those who obey. The moral law encompasses regulations on justice, respect, and sexual conduct and includes the Ten Commandments. It also has penalties for failure to follow the ordinances. The moral law does not point people to Christ; it merely illuminates the fallen state of all humankind.
Some believe that this law will remain in force until the earth passes away Matthew 5:18, and believers are still bound by it. Others, however, understand that Jesus fulfilled this requirement Matthew 5:17 and that we are instead under the law of Christ Galatians 6: 2, which is believed to be "love God and love others" Matthew 22:36-40. Although many of the moral laws of the Old Testament provide excellent examples of how to love God and love others, and freedom from the law is not a permission to sin Romans 6:15, we are not specifically bound by this ordinance.
Ceremonial Law - Ceremonial Laws are the regulations, customs, and traditions. They include instructions to restore righteousness to God (sacrifices and other ceremonies regarding "uncleanness"), reminders of God's work in Israel (feasts and feasts), more specific rule to follow (clothing restrictions, dietary habit), and signs were pointing to the coming Messiah (Sabbath, circumcision, Passover, and the redemption of the firstborn).
Since the church is not the nation of Israel, memorial feasts, such as the Feast of Weeks and Easter, do not apply. Galatians 3: 23-25 explains that since the coming of Jesus, Christians are not obligated to sacrifice or circumcise. There is still debate in Protestant churches about the applicability of the Sabbath. Some say that its inclusion in the Ten Commandments gives it the weight of moral law. Others quote Colossians 2: 16-17 and Romans 14: 5 to explain that Jesus fulfilled the Sabbath and became our Sabbath rest. The applicability of the Old Testament law in a Christian's life has always related to its usefulness in loving God and others. If someone feels that observance of the Sabbath helps him with this, he is free to keep it. Christians are not bound by ceremonial law.
judicial law - A Civil Law. These laws were specifically given to the culture and place of the Israelites and included the entire moral law except the Ten Commandments.
The whole law helps teach 2 Timothy 3:16, and nothing in the Bible indicates that God intended to distinguish between categories. Christians are not under the law Romans 10: 4. Jesus fulfilled the law and thus abolished the difference between Jew and non-Jews "so that He could make the two into one new human being and thus create peace and reconcile them both in one body with God through the cross ..." Ephesians 2: 15-16.
All people fall short; Breaking the Law is punishable. Exodus 31:15, Numbers 15: 32-36. The main reason why Jesus came to free us from the guilt leads to condemnation, death and curse for not keeping the Law of Moses. The Jewish Sabbath was abolished at the cross where Christ "canceled the written code, with its regulations" Colossians 2:14.
- In the Old Testament, the law requirements are in the people's hearts; their conscience bears witness and their thoughts that accuse them. Romans 2:15. But in the New Testament, Jesus is in the people's hearts (born again); the Holy Spirit bears witness, and the Word of God teaches them. John 14:16-17.
For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. John 1:17
Jesus is our Salvation. It is the deliverance from the bondage of sin and curses Galatians 3:13
Salvation from eternal death to eternal life through Jesus Christ. Matthew 25:46
The Christian and the assembly:
When did the first Christians meet?
Acts 2: 46-47 gives us the answer: "Every day they continued to meet in the temple's courtyards. They broke bread in their homes and ate with happy and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added daily to their number who were saved. There is no evidence in the New Testament that the apostles or the early Christians observed the Sabbath day as the prescribed day of worship. Traditionally, Christians have held their primary corporate worship services on Sundays, the first day of the week, in celebration of Christ's resurrection, which occurred on a Sunday Matthew 28:1; Mark 16:2; Luke 24:1; John 20:1, Acts 20: 7; 1, 1Corinthians 16: 2. In honor of Christ's resurrection on Sunday, early Christians kept Sunday not as the "Christian Sabbath" but as a day to worship Jesus Christ.
Let us not stay away from church meetings. Some people are doing this all the time. Comfort each other as you see the day of His return coming near. Hebrews 10:25
THE KINGDOM OF GOD:
The awareness of being in the Kingdom of God:
The Kingdom of Heaven and the Kingdom of God
The Kingdom of Heaven Isaiah 66:1-2
This is what the Lord says: 1 “Heaven is My throne and the earth is the footstool for My feet.
Where then is a house you could build for Me? And where is a place that I may rest?
- You can only reach the throne of God through praise, worship and prayer. The holy of holiest, the very presence of God. The throne of God as a place of holiness and glory, where it is described as the source of a pure river of water of life (Revelation 22:1).
- He brought Jesus Christ to earth (Matthew 6:10, Col 1:13) to represent Himself. Jesus Christ is the exact manifestation of God the Father Hebrews 1:3, John 14:9. After He provided purification for sins, (His blood and His Body) Hebrews 4:16 He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven(Hebrews 7:25, Romans 8:34) With Jesus Christ on the throne, we benefit in many ways: He gave us the Holy Spirit, adopted us into the family of God, made us residents of the Kingdom of God, and intercedes for us John 17:9-11, Hebrews 7:25, Romans 8:34
The Kingdom of God is often understood as the presence and reign of Jesus Himself (Colossians 1:13), while the Kingdom of Heaven refers to the place where God's throne is, as described in Isaiah 66:1. The Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of Heaven have the same spiritual reality. John 10:30, John 14:9-11: The terms Kingdom of God and Kingdom of heaven are interchangeable Matthew 19:23-24. They are as synonymous on earth as they are in heaven.
"Although the terms 'Kingdom of God' and 'Kingdom of Heaven' may have subtle differences in some contexts, t he Kingdom of God refers to the coming of Jesus Christ to earth, and all who accept and believe in Him will see and enter the Kingdom of God. However, there is still a chance that Satan will deceive them if given the opportunity. The Kingdom of God is a reflection of heaven, where God is worshipped. It represents the spiritual realm where God's authority and power to rule and reign are recognized and demonstrated. It encompasses God's righteous principles, His divine will, and the establishment of His plan of redemption in the world. The Kingdom of God is not limited to a physical place but is present wherever God's presence is acknowledged and experienced."
The Kingdom of God is a future event (Kingdom of heaven) The kingdom of God is not only a future event but also a present reality. The Kingdom of God is the extension of the Kingdom of Heaven. Matthew 6:10. Jesus is the King of the kingdom. God established His rule over all creation. The kingdom of God Daniel said that "the God of heaven will build a kingdom that will never be destroyed" (Daniel 2:44,, 7:13-14).The Lord has established His throne in heaven, And His kingdom rules over all Psalm 103:19. God seated His Son in His throne and Jesus sat us with Him in His throne.
The prayer of Jesus He said, Matthew 6:10
I. Let Your Kingdom come;
Jesus Christ represents the Kingdom of Heaven. The Kingdom came on earth through Jesus Christ. Jesus is the King of the Kingdom. God established His rule over all creation. Psalm 103:19
II. Let Your will be done; Matthew 7:21–23
A. To reconcile us to Himself, through Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:18.
B. To bring us to Christ, Colossians 1:13
C. To set us free John 8:36.
D. To restore man to God's original creation.
1. His breathed Genesis 2:7, John 20:22
2. His image Genesis 1:27, Colossians 1:15, 2 Corinthians 4:4
3. Authority Genesis 1:26, Matthew 28:18, Mark 16:17, Matthew 16:15-20
E. To restore man from the result of the fall of Adam
1. Blinded before now can see 2 Corinthians 4:4, John 9:25, Ephesians 1:18
2. Death to Life 2Corinthians 3:6, Romans 5:12-18
3. Sin to Righteousness John 8:24, Romans 5:19
4. Curse to Grace Galatians 3:10-13, Romans 6:14, Romans 5:20
5. Darkness to Light Colossians 1:13
6. Wrath of God to Salvation Romans 1:18, 1 Thessalonians 5:9,
7. Eternal death to Eternal life Revelation 20:12-15, John 3:36, Romans 6:23
8. Worldly system to Godly system Romans 12:2, Romans 8:29
III. On earth as it is in heaven;
What is in Heaven that God Wants Here on Earth?
A. His Glorious Presence: God's presence is profoundly experienced by Kingdom citizens, who live in alignment with His will. Only those Kingdom Citizen would experience the presence and
the glory of God.
B. Worship: God desires worship that mirrors the reverence and devotion found in heaven. This involves worshipping Him in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24) and presenting our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1).
C. Joyful and Grateful Communication: In heaven, there is constant rejoicing and direct communication with God. Believers are called to rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances ( 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).
D. Honor and Reverence: God desires to be honored on earth as He is in heaven, acknowledged as King, Lord, and Master in every aspect of our lives.
How would you know that you are the residence of the Kingdom of God? There are five prerequisites to enter the Kingdom of God:
1. You hear and believe the Gospel. Romans 1:16, Matthew 24:14
2. You are Born of God Through faith in Jesus, you become a child of God, born not of natural descent but of divine will. (John 1:12-13)
Two Types of Birth:
- Birth in the Flesh: Your DNA comes from your biological parents.
- Born of the Spirit: Your spiritual DNA is the blood of Jesus. Only those redeemed by the blood of Jesus are born of God. These individuals are born again (John 3:3-5). The born again are the children of God (John 1:12-13). God's children are those adopted by the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:15-17). You are adopted when you receive the Holy Spirit. You receive the Holy Spirit not by obeying the law, but by believing what you have heard from the Gospel (Galatians 3:2). This belief establishes your faith, and that faith brings you to salvation through His grace because you were bought with a price—the blood of Jesus.
A person can know they are redeemed by the blood of Jesus through faith and the witness of
the Holy Spirit in their life. Here are some key points to understand this:
- Faith in Jesus Christ: Redemption through the blood of Jesus is available to those who put their faith in Him. Believing in Jesus as the Son of God who died for our sins and rose again is the foundation of redemption (John 3:16, Ephesians 1:7).
- Confession and Repentance: Acknowledging one's sins, confessing them, and turning away from them is a crucial step. 1 John 1:9 says, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
- Witness of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit assures believers of their salvation. Romans 8:16 says, "The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God."
- Transformation of Life: A redeemed person will experience a transformation in their life. This includes a new desire to follow God's ways, love for others, and a change in behavior and attitudes (2 Corinthians 5:17).
3. Have a Loving Spirit and Forgiving Heart True followers of Christ exhibit love and forgiveness, reflecting God's nature. Matthew 18:15, 1 John 3:15)
4. Have Knowledge of the Truth Seek and embrace the truth found in God's Word, as it sets you free and provides wisdom for life. (1 Timothy 2:4, John 8:32, Matthew 13:19, Hosea 4:6)
5. Do Not Blaspheme the Holy Spirit Respect and honor the Holy Spirit, avoiding any form of blasphemy, which is a grave sin (Mark 3:28-30 )
6. Endure in Faith and Do Not Follow Deceiving Spirits Stay steadfast in your faith, discerning and rejecting false teachings and deceptive spirits. (Matthew 24:13, 1 Timothy 4:1)
The Kingdom of God is the Kingdom of Heaven that was extended on earth through Christ.
1. The Kingdom of Jesus Christ operates through grace
2. The Kingdom of Jesus Christ operates through His glory, 2 Peter 1:3
3. The Kingdom of Jesus Christ operates through His power
There are two kinds of Kingdoms:
I. The Kingdom of the Air: A worldly kingdom, the kingdom of darkness, ruled by the Devil (satan), the adversary (1 John 5:19). Those who violate God's authority refuse to submit to the Creator of heaven and earth. They are associated with the worldly and the flesh. Ephesians 2:2.
- Describes this Kingdom as the state people are in before coming to faith in Christ.
- In this state, people are influenced by the ruler of the Kingdom of the air, often understood as Satan or demonic forces.
- Characteristics include being under the control of the Devil, conflict between fleshly desires and the Spirit, a corrupted mind, reliance on human understanding, deception, self-righteousness, and spiritual death.
This verse in Ephesians 2:2 suggests that before coming to faith in Christ, people were living in accordance with the ways of the world, under the influence of the ruler of the Kingdom of the air, which can be understood as a reference to Satan or demonic forces.
This perspective focuses on the fallen nature of humanity and its separation from God due to sin.
1. The Father is the Devil - This concept suggests that in this fallen state, disobedient or unbelievers are under the influence of Satan, who is often described as the father of lies and deception. John 8:44
2. All the splendor of the world. - disobedient and unbelievers whom he blinded because of the splendor he offered. Satan also wants us to bow down and worship him. Matthew 4:8-9
3. The Flesh contradicts the Spirit's desire - in this state, there is a conflict between the desires of the Flesh (sinful nature) and the desires of the Spirit. Galatians 5:17
4. The mind is corrupted - The human mind is affected by sin and is inclined towards sinful thoughts and behaviors. Romans 8:6
5. Dependent on the knowledge of good and evil - This might refer to people relying on their understanding of what is right and wrong rather than seeking God's guidance.
6. Blinded with lies - People in this state are blinded and deceived by the lies and deceptions of the enemy, leading them away from God's truth.
2Corinthians 4:4, Acts 26:16-8, Colossians 1:13
7. Self-righteous - Instead of relying on God's righteousness, individuals may attempt to establish their own righteousness through their actions, ultimately falling short.
8. Eternal death - This state leads to spiritual death and separation from God.
II. Kingdom of Jesus Christ: His Kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36). Associated with the Spirit and God. Colossians 1:13
- Colossians 1:13 represents the Kingdom of salvation and spiritual transformation brought about by faith in Jesus Christ.
- Believers become children of God, led by the Holy Spirit, with minds renewed by Christ's teachings.
- They rely on the Word of God, are set free by truth, attain righteousness through faith in Christ, and are promised eternal life with God.
The concept of contrasting spiritual realms is characterized by disobedience and the ruler of the Kingdom of the air (the worldly and sinful realm), and the other is characterized by rescue, the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, and the love of God (the realm of salvation and spiritual transformation). John 18:36
- The Father God (Everlasting Father) - those who believe and receive Jesus Christ became the child of God. John 1:12, Ephesians 1:5, Romans 8:16, Romans 8:15
- God blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. - in His love, He chose us in Christ for Himself as His children before the foundation of the world so that we are set apart for Him, purpose-driven and blameless in His sight. Ephesians 1:3-6
3. The Spirit contradicts the fleshly desire - Galatians 5:16, Romans 8:9 The Holy Spirit helps believers to align with God's will by giving the nine gifts and nine fruits. 1 Corinthians 12:7-11,
Galatians 5: 22-23,
4. The mind of Christ 1 Corinthians 2:16, Philippians 4:8, which means thinking and living in accordance with the Word, His teachings, and example.
5. Dependent on the Word of God - Believers rely on God's Word (the Bible) for guidance and direction.
6. Set free from the truth - Galatians 5:1, John 8:31-32
7. The righteousness of God - righteous through faith in Christ and His sacrifice. Romans 3:22, Romans 5:19
8. Eternal Life - Believers in Christ are promised eternal life with God. John 3:16
This contrast highlights the spiritual transformation and rescue when individuals turn from the worldly and sinful realm to embrace faith in Jesus Christ and enter His Kingdom of salvation, led by the Holy Spirit and characterized by God's love and eternal life.
I. Kingdom of God on Earth
Jesus brought the Kingdom to earth, which means He opened the Kingdom of heaven to us through the Holy Spirit.
The kingdom of God is spiritual—Jesus said His kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36), The kingdom of God cannot be seen with the physical eye, Matthew 13:13,14,17, the kingdom of heaven is spiritual, existing within the hearts of believers (Luke 17:21). the kingdom of God is within you”. Later, the kingdom will be manifest physically, when the Lord Jesus establishes His throne on this earth (Revelation 11:15). For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD as the waters cover the sea Habakkuk 2:14, Psalm 72:19. The second coming of the Messiah. John 4:25-26
The kingdom of God cannot be seen with the physical eye, Matthew 13:13,14,17, the kingdom of heaven is spiritual, existing within the hearts of believers (Luke 17:21). the kingdom of God is within you”. Later, the kingdom will be manifest physically, when the Lord Jesus establishes His throne on this earth (Revelation 11:15). For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD as the waters cover the sea Habakkuk 2:14, Psalm 72:19. The second coming of the Messiah. John 4:25-26
Jesus was our representative in heaven when the Father sent Him to the world, and we were God's representative when the Holy Spirit is in us, only for those who are born again of the Spirit. Those who walk in the Spirit and not in the flesh. You can walk in the Spirit if we walk in he will of God. 1Thessalonian 5:18-19.
Repentance is necessary to be a part of God's kingdom (Matthew 4:17). That the kingdom of God is comparable to the scope of salvation can be seen in John 3:5-7, where Jesus said that the kingdom of God must be entered by being born again. See also 1 Corinthians 6:9.
II. Residence in the Kingdom
Those who acknowledge Christ's lordship and joyfully submit to God's rule and authority in their hearts are the residence of God's Kingdom. John 1:3
1. Born again, John 3:3-5, (Water and Spirit Ephesians 5:26, Romans 8:15
2. Led by the Holy Spirit who teaches and undterstand the things of God Mark 4:11, Matthew 13:10-12, 13,14,17, Matthew 13:19
3. Child of God John 1:12-13
4. Citizen of the Kingdom John 18:36, John 17:14–16, Romans 1:17, Ephesians 1:13, Philippians 3:20
5. Sealed of ownership Ephesians 1:13,14, 2 Corinthians 1:22
6. Name written in the book of Life Psalm 69:28, Revelation 3:5, Revelation 20:12
How to become a resident the Kingdom?
1. The Gospel of the Kingdom should be preach to you.
2. You should Repent and believe in the Gospel (1 Cor 15:2, Mark 1:15
“The kingdom of God does not come with observation” (Luke 17:20. We are not just observers, we need to repent, believe the good news, (Mark 1:15) and shun evil. (Matthew 3:2-3)., Repentance is necessary to be a part of God's kingdom
3. You can see the Kingdom: Be Born Again
Jesus said that, unless a man is born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of Heaven (John 3:5-7,). One is born again as the Holy Spirit works through the Word of God to bring new life to a dead sinner. (Romans 10:9-10). So faithful preaching of the gospel is the key to the kingdom. How did the Kingdom open to us? FAITH. The kingdom of God is comparable to the scope of salvation can be seen in where Jesus said that the kingdom of God must be entered by being born again.
4. You have the key to the Kingdom (Matthew 16:17-19).
Keys are used to lock or unlock doors. The specific gates that Jesus has in mind in this verse are the gates to the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus is laying the foundation of His church (Ephesians 2:20). The disciples will be the leaders of this new institution, and Jesus gives them the authority to, as it were, open the gates of heaven and invite the world in. At this point, it is important to understand how, according to the Bible, a person enters the Kingdom of Heaven
In Matthew 16:19, Peter, so it is significant that, in the book of Acts, Peter was prominent in "opening the doors"
Of course, keys can be used to lock doors as well as open them. Part of the gospel message is that faith is necessary. Without faith in Christ, the door to heaven is closed and barred (see John 3:18). As the apostles preached the gospel, those who responded with faith and repentance were given access to the Kingdom of Heaven; but those who continued to harden their hearts and reject the gospel of God's saving grace were shut out of the Kingdom (Acts 8:23).
The context of Matthew 16 also refers to a "binding and loosing." To better understand this concept, let's turn to Matthew 18:15–20, where Jesus gives the authority of Christ to the individual. believers and their eternal destiny, but they must exercise authority Based on God's Word, believers today can declare that an unrepentant sinner is not saved (“bound”) and a repentant believer in Jesus Christ is saved (“loose”). Binding or loosing, based on a person's rejection or acceptance of the gospel,
5. The kingdom of God has come upon you
6. You can enter the Kingdom: Born of water (sanctification) and Spirit (adoption)
7. You are placed in the Kingdom:
8. You walk in the Kingdom, by walking in the light
9. You have provisions in the Kingdom: His Kingdom and Righteousness go together
10. You have received the Kingdom that was promise
11.You are heirs of the Kingdom
12. To you are revealed the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven
13: Impostor in the Kingdom: Matthew 13:41
Mark 4:11
And he said to them, “To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside everything is in parables,
Matthew 13:10-12 The disciples came to him and asked, “Why do you speak to the people in parables?” He replied, “Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. Matthew 13:19
Matthew 11: 25-26 At that time Jesus said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do.
The kingdom will come quietly and unseen, just as yeast works in a batch of dough Matthew 13:33 “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven that a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, till it was all leavened.” The kingdom of God exerts its influence from within, not from without. Yeast makes dough rise from within. God first changes the heart of a person, and that internal change has external manifestations. Just as yeast works until the dough has completely risen, the ultimate benefit of the kingdom of God will be worldwide. The yeast will spread through all the dough. In the same way, Jesus’ domain started with twelve men in an obscure corner of Galilee, but it has spread throughout the world. The gospel makes progress.
The Kingdom of Heaven is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man takes and sows in his field,
Matthew 13:32 “which indeed is the least of all seeds. But when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs. And it becomes a tree, so that the birds of heaven come and build in its branches.”
Matthew 13:44 “Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure, hidden in the field. Which, when a man has found, he hides it. And for joy thereof, departs and sells all that he has, and buys that field.
The Kingdom of God is not to satisfy our flesh but our soul Romans 14:17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit (Galatians 5:17),
13. The Kingdom of God is within you.” Luke 17:21 He reigns in your hearts.
“The kingdom of God is not coming in ways that can be observed, nor will they say, ‘See here!’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you.”’ Luke 17:21
The Kingdom of God is Jesus Christ Himself. Revelation 11:15
- We are his own by putting his seal on us, putting His Spirit in our hearts as a first installment guaranteeing all that He has promised us 2 Corinthians 1:22.
The residence of the Kingdom are the true family of God based not on physical relationships but on a spiritual connection formed through doing God's will. People who follow God and uphold His will are considered by Jesus as His true family.
III. Kingdom Manifestation:
1. Kingdom of grace through Jesus Christ
2. Kingdom of glory through the Holy Spirit
3. Kingdom Power through the Father Luke 11:20
IV. Kingdom Language:
They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. John 17:16-17
The language of the kingdom is the Word of truth. We speak things, not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, explaining spiritual things to spiritual people. 1 Corinthians 2:13
The language of the kingdom is the words favorable to the king, Our Lord, our Father, and our God we want to please. The awareness of His presence, knowing He is omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent.
As we are inside the kingdom of God our conversation should always be for the glory of God, full of love and grace. It means respecting and allowing the Holy Spirit to intervene. A grace-filled conversation is as much a verbal testimony as sharing the gospel message itself. By doing so, we better understand what God wanted us to say. We were connected to the source of knowledge, wisdom, and understanding. God's character can be seen in our actions, way of life, love, mercy, kindness, and holiness. And we serve God and others in humility. In other words, they are the people of God who represent God and shine his light on the world, Where everyone's language is influence by the spirit. Colossians 4:5-6
VI. Kingdom Operation:
Make every effort to confirm your calling. We are chosen and called to recruit and rescue people from harm and bring them to the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. To share and teach the gospel of salvation to the people. To share the testimony of Christ
But Jesus said He should preach the good news of the kingdom of God because He was sent for this purpose." That is why He gave us the Holy Spirit before He ascended to heaven so that we can continue God's desire to save the people from God's wrath before He returns.
- This gospel of the Kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come. Mathew 24:14
Three that testify:
1. The Spirit - Adoption
2. The water - Sanctification
3. The blood - Justification
VII. Kingdom System
Walking in faith is the walking of the citizens of the Kingdom. (those born again of the Spiri)t. If you do not have faith, you do not belong to the Kingdom of God because the Kingdom system is all faith. Therefore, we must walk by faith. Whatever we do is faith because we are born again in the Spirit. Kingdom is a promised but Faith is a gift of the Holy Spirit.
What is Kingdom Faith?
1. The Kingdom of His Son
2. Kingdom faith is God's Kingdom System.
3. Only the born again can enter the Kingdom system.
VIII. Kingdom Principles:
1. Not looking at oneself or anyone else Hebrews 12:2
2. Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities Romans 13:1, Ephesians 6:1-3
3. Not trusting in man or himself Proverbs 3:5-6
4. Not dependent on our strength Zechariah 4:6
5. Not just in our own understanding Proverbs 3:5-6
6. No human wisdom Proverbs 9:10
7. Not of one's desire Psalm 37:4
8. Not by our own feeling Jeremiah 17:9
9. Not of our own free will. Luke 22:42
10. Not proud of himself, but humble Matthew 5:3
11 Not judging others? James 4:11-12
Jesus Christ rules the kingdom of God in the hearts and lives of people who accept him as Lord and Savior and submit to the Word of God. Those who do not obey God's Word and refuse to submit to Him are not part of God's kingdom; In this sense, the kingdom of God is spiritual – Jesus said that his kingdom is not of this world. He preached that repentance is necessary to be part of the kingdom of God. That the kingdom of God is comparable to the extent of salvation where Jesus said, the kingdom of God must be entered by being born again.
VIX. Kingdom Atmosphere:
Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Holy Spirit who is from God, so that we may know and understand the things freely given to us by God. 1 Corinthians 2:12
In the Kingdom, no devil existed, It's all God, and God is spirit. The whole thing is spiritual because the Kingdom of God is spiritual. Sin is no longer the problem, and everything is glorious. All focus is on the sovereignty of Christ. We are only affected by what we hear, like the bad news, and see things that the devil is doing because we are walking in the flesh. This world is full of darkness. According to Isaiah 60:2, darkness covers the earth, and thick darkness is over the people. Ephesians 5:16 makes the most of every opportunity because the days are evil. Opportunity to rise, and his glory appears over you Isaiah 60:1. God already transferred us to His Son in Colossians 1:13, For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the Kingdom of the Son He loves. Romans 14:17 for the Kingdom of God is not eating and drinking but righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
VX. Kingdom Awareness:
“The kingdom (dominion, rule) of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever.” Revelation 11:15
You are in the Kingdom. You are now in God's rulership. God's universal reign as Creator. Jesus Christ, our King. In Revelation 5:10 And have made us kings and priests to our God, And we shall reign on the earth." We have the authority to pull down every stronghold of the devil.
Psalm 103:19 “The LORD has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.” Isaiah 33:10 “Now will I arise,” says the Lord. “Now will I be exalted; now will I be lifted up.
- Wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God 1 Corinthians 6:9
- The flesh cannot inherit the Kingdom of God Galatians 5:19-21, 1 Corinthians 15:50
X. Kingdom Rules:
1. Proverbs 8:17 - love and seek
Matthew 6:33
Childlike Faith: Matthew 19:14
2. Psalm 18:25 - merciful (faithful) with blameless (upright)
3. Luke 6:37
4. Luke 6:38
5. Matthew 7:7
1. It is what we should practice because we are Born of God. Born of God are those born again in the spirit. Born again are a new creation 2 Corinthians 5:172. Is the only way to get into the Kingdom system.
You received Salvation because you accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and King. As a result, you became an heir of the Kingdom of God and had power and authority over satan in the name of Jesus.
Daniel 7:27 Then the sovereignty, power and greatness of all the kingdoms under heaven will be handed over to the holy people of the Most High. His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom, and all rulers will worship and obey him.’
Revelation 11:15Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!”
Psalm 24:1 “The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it;” Psalm 103:19 “The LORD has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.” Colossians 1:16-17: “For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him, all things hold together.”
Kingdom: 1. Repentance and Faith go together 2. Faith and Righteousness are one 3. The Word of God and the Holy Spirit are one 4. The Born Again is a spiritual being
XI. The Gospel of the Kindom:
Acts 1:3
And the Gospel (1Corinthians 15:1-2, Romans 1:17) of the Kingdom will be proclaimed through the whole world as a testimony to all nations then the end will come. Mathew 24:14
He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance! Romans 8:31.
Mateo 11:12 Jesus indeed speaks about the kingdom of God facing opposition and violence, signifying the challenges that the message of the kingdom encounters.
XII. The Kingdom Journey:
1. Repentance "From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.'" Matthew 3:2, Matthew 4:17
2. Believe"And saying, 'The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.'" - Mark 1:15 (ESV)
3. Enter the Kingdom: John 3:5 Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water (sanctification Ephesians 5:26 1 Timothy 4:5 , John 17:17) and the Spiri (Adoptiont, Galatians 4:6, Romans 8:15) .
- To those who repented and believe, the Kingdom is near you. Mark 1:15. Matthew 4:17. But the only way to see and enter the Kingdom is by being born again. John 3:3-5
- You will enter the realm of the Spirit
4. Teaching and Deliverance:: "Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction." - Matthew 9:35 (ESV)
5. Testimony: "And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come." - Matthew 24:14 (ESV)
6. Seek the kingdom:"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." - Matthew 6:33 (ESV)
7. Ministry receive: But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. Acts 20:24
8. Stand Firm: Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58
These verses highlight the urgency of repentance, the proclamation of the kingdom, and the call to prioritize God's reign in our lives. The Gospel of the Kingdom invites people to turn away from sin, trust in Jesus, and participate in the transformative work of God's kingdom on earth.Regenerate response
9. Remain in the Kingdom:
Once you are resident of the Kingdom you will remain in the Kingdom unless you are impostor (Matthew 13:24- 30,
Matthew 13:47-50 “Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a draw net, cast into the sea, which gathers of all kinds of things; “which, when it is full, they draw to land, and sit and gather the good into vessels, and cast away the bad. “So shall it be at the end of the world. The angels shall go forth, and separate the bad from among the just; “and shall cast them into a furnace of fire. There shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth) but there is least and great in the Kingdom Mark 10:15, Matthew 18:4, Matthew 5:19-20, Mateo 11:11-12
10. Kingdom of Heaven is closed:
1. Self Righteousness and human preference:
God's will is to give sinners a way to heaven through the righteousness of Christ. Consider Jesus' warning to the Pharisees: “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you have shut the kingdom of heaven from the faces of men. Because you do not enter in or let those who want to enter in" (Matthew 23:13).
2. If the message of the gospel is distorted or ignored, or if unrepentant sin is not sufficiently disciplined, the gates to the Kingdom of Heaven is closed in the faces of men.
3.
Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God" (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).
By saying that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God, Paul is saying that the wicked are not children of God, nor heirs of eternal life (Romans 8:17). This does not mean that anyone who commits one of these sins will not enter heaven. What distinguishes the life of a Christian from the life of a non-Christian is the struggle against sin and the ability to overcome it. A true Christian will always repent, always return to God eventually, and always continue to struggle against sin. But the Bible gives no support for the idea that someone who is eternally and unrepentantly practicing sin can really be a Christian. The passage in 1 Corinthians lists sins that, if continually committed, will mark a person as unredeemed by Christ.
Mark 10:15 Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
1 Corinthians 15:24-25
Revelation 11:15
The concept of the "kingdom of God" or "kingdom of heaven" is a central theme in the teachings of Jesus and is a key element of Christian theology. The meaning and interpretation of the kingdom of God have been the subject of theological discussion and debate, but here is a general understanding:
- The Rule and Reign of God: At its core, the kingdom of God refers to the rule, reign, and sovereignty of God over all creation. It encompasses God's divine authority, divine will, and divine purposes.
- A Present and Future Reality: The kingdom of God is often understood as both a present reality and a future hope. It is present in the sense that wherever God's rule and will are acknowledged and followed, the kingdom is "at hand" or present in the lives of believers. It is also future in the sense that it will be fully realized when God's ultimate plan is fulfilled, culminating in the return of Christ and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.
- Transformation and Renewal: The kingdom of God represents a realm characterized by righteousness, peace, love, and justice. It is associated with the transformation and renewal of individuals and societies as they come under God's rule. It brings about the healing of brokenness, reconciliation, and the restoration of God's intended order.
- Entrance through Faith and Repentance: According to Jesus' teachings, entry into the kingdom of God involves faith and repentance. People are called to turn from their sins, believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and submit to God's rule in their lives.
- Inclusiveness and Universality: The kingdom of God is inclusive and universal in its scope. It is not limited to a specific group or ethnicity but is open to all who respond to God's call. It transcends human boundaries and divisions.
- Eternal and Unshakable: The kingdom of God is eternal and unshakable. It stands in contrast to worldly kingdoms and powers, which are temporary and subject to change. It is a kingdom that endures forever.
- Announcement by Jesus: Jesus often proclaimed the arrival of the kingdom of God during His earthly ministry. He used parables and teachings to illustrate its principles and invited people to participate in it.
- Prayer for Its Coming: In the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:10), Jesus taught His followers to pray, "Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." This prayer expresses the desire for God's kingdom to be realized on Earth.
In summary, the kingdom of God represents God's rule and reign over creation, both in the present and the future. It is characterized by righteousness, transformation, inclusiveness, and the fulfillment of God's purposes. It is central to Christian theology and is often seen as the ultimate hope and goal of believers.
- The Rule and Reign of God:
- Psalm 103:19 (NIV): "The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all."
- A Present and Future Reality:
- Mark 1:15 (NIV): "The time has come," he said. "The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!"
- Revelation 21:1-4 (NIV): These verses describe the future realization of God's kingdom.
- Transformation and Renewal:
- Romans 14:17 (NIV): "For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit."
- 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV): "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"
- Entrance through Faith and Repentance:
- Mark 1:14-15 (NIV): "Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. 'The time has come,' he said. 'The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!'"
- John 3:3 (NIV): "Jesus replied, 'Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.'"
- Inclusiveness and Universality:
- Galatians 3:28 (NIV): "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."
- Eternal and Unshakable:
- Daniel 7:14 (NIV): "He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed."
- Announcement by Jesus:
- Mark 1:14-15 (NIV): "Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. 'The time has come,' he said. 'The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!'"
- Prayer for Its Coming:
- Matthew 6:10 (NIV): "Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." - Part of the Lord's Prayer taught by Jesus.
These verses illustrate and support the various aspects of the kingdom of God as described in my previous response, providing a biblical foundation for each aspect of this important concept in Christian theology.
PRAYER BEFORE DAWN:
Prayer before dawn change my life.
I am a late sleeper, and my latest sleep was between one to two in the morning. I usually get up between seven to eight in the morning. But when we started the morning watch. One to two months of waking up early morning at 4:00 am. was a big challenge for me. But by God's grace, after a few months, I am used to it.
Dawn watching prayer is not easy. It is a commitment to God. Because your body still wants to sleep. But it is also a calling. As Jesus said to his disciples when He saw them asleep, “Couldn’t you men keep watch with me for one hour?” he asked Peter.
I begin singing hymns. I started singing my prayers to God. New songs from my heart to God. God opens my eyes and sees the things that are for Him. He downloaded me a revelation after revelation. And even when I go through trials, God does not let me give up. He opened my eyes to see that He had control over everything in my life.
Will prayers before dawn change your day? There is no way to know what may or may not happen if you pray before others get up. Since committing to God before dawn prayer, what I have experienced has had a significant impact on me. I have become more aware of God's things and of God and every little thing God moves in my life. My walk becomes more spiritual, and I start my day with extraordinary focus, determination, and humility before the Lord. When I raise a prayer before dawn, I start as the best version of myself.
God hears us every time we pray. It doesn't matter what time. Prayer becomes more challenging as the day goes by. We demand so much of our time and attention it becomes difficult to sit in holy moments meditating on His Word and watch God work. It's hard even to find sacred moments. But praise God, because of God's grace and with the help of the Holy Spirit, He put that desire and courage in our hearts.
The word "pray continually" simply means that we must communicate with God at every moment in any situation. We are not religious that only pray on Sundays or during service in the church. Or go to your prayer room to pray. God said that His house is a house of prayer. The church is not a building. We are the church. “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” Colossians 4:2. But the Dawn watch prayer is a call and vow to the Lord. But if you fail in your commitment to dawn watch prayer, it's okay because God told us to pray anyway and don't give up.
Of course, God is omniscient, so He does not leave us. He speaks to us no matter where we are or what time it is. But something wonderful happens when we give sacrifices to God, like getting up at dawn to pray. It was very hard at first because it was good to sleep. But God has a promise.
Prayer before dawn change my life.
I am a late sleeper, and my latest sleep was between one to two in the morning. I usually get up between seven to eight in the morning. But when we started the morning watch. One to two months of waking up early morning at 4:00 am. was a big challenge for me. But by God's grace, after a few months, I am used to it.
Dawn watching prayer is not easy. It is a commitment to God. Because your body still wants to sleep. But it is also a calling. As Jesus said to his disciples when He saw them asleep, “Couldn’t you men keep watch with me for one hour?” he asked Peter.
I begin singing hymns. I started singing my prayers to God. New songs from my heart to God. God opens my eyes and sees the things that are for Him. He downloaded me a revelation after revelation. And even when I go through trials, God does not let me give up. He opened my eyes to see that He had control over everything in my life.
Will prayers before dawn change your day? There is no way to know what may or may not happen if you pray before others get up. Since committing to God before dawn prayer, what I have experienced has had a significant impact on me. I have become more aware of God's things and of God and every little thing God moves in my life. My walk becomes more spiritual, and I start my day with extraordinary focus, determination, and humility before the Lord. When I raise a prayer before dawn, I start as the best version of myself.
God hears us every time we pray. It doesn't matter what time. Prayer becomes more challenging as the day goes by. We demand so much of our time and attention it becomes difficult to sit in holy moments meditating on His Word and watch God work. It's hard even to find sacred moments. But praise God, because of God's grace and with the help of the Holy Spirit, He put that desire and courage in our hearts.
The word "pray continually" simply means that we must communicate with God at every moment in any situation. We are not religious that only pray on Sundays or during service in the church. Or go to your prayer room to pray. God said that His house is a house of prayer. The church is not a building. We are the church. “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” Colossians 4:2. But the Dawn watch prayer is a call and vow to the Lord. But if you fail in your commitment to dawn watch prayer, it's okay because God told us to pray anyway and don't give up.
Of course, God is omniscient, so He does not leave us. He speaks to us no matter where we are or what time it is. But something wonderful happens when we give sacrifices to God, like getting up at dawn to pray. It was very hard at first because it was good to sleep. But God has a promise.
Sing to Him a new song
GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD:
Three persons of God
They said, they would give their lives to God. How can you give what is not yours? Our lives are not ours. Our breath is His. What we have now, everything in our possession, we think is ours, is not ours. We were born here with nothing. We leave with nothing. He owns everything; everything belongs to God, God has just entrusted us, and he can take it anytime. Now, what can we give to God?
Honor
All we can give Him is the honor He deserves. He is the Most High God, 1 Chronicles 29:11-12 We have to value the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross. By this, we receive redemption (we are justified), sanctification, and adoptioon in exchange for His life. We should be the ones to be hurt, but God saved us from eternal damnation. In replaced for His life. We set free.
In the Old Testament, not everyone had access to God, only those who were chosen by God, such as the Levites, priest and the called ones. But because of what Jesus has done on the cross.(If God says something twice in the Bible meaning we have to pay attention to it.) We all have access to God, those who believed. 1 Peter 2:9
How do we honor God? Let God be God
1. Believing heart John 6:28-29
Believing heart is our beings. Our soul (mind, intellect, will, and emotion) human being
Never doubt God. He is Omnipotent- all-powerful, Omniscience- all-knowing, Omnipresent- present everywhere at once. He will fulfill all His plans for us. (God has given us Peace, but why can't we attain Peace? Because our soul and body move not in harmony with the Spirit of God. But when our body, and soul, are submitted, we have the Peace of God. So our body, soul, and spirit must submit to the word of God).He can accomplish infinitely more than our greatest desires. In Him, nothing is impossible.
2. Glory Him 1Corinthians 10:31 , 1 Thessalonian 5:16-18
God wanted us to have fellowship with Him. 1 Corinthians 1:9
The context of this verse includes our freedom to make personal choices in life, Our lips, Our mind, our walk, wherever we go, whatever we do, our ways, and all our plans and decisions are for His glory. Our "YES is for the glory of God, and our "NO" will not give glory to God.
3. Obedient heart John 14:23-24
It is easy to say that we love the Lord, but what is the proof? If we cannot follow God's still, small voice. God speaks to our hearts. The sheep hear his Vons ice. How would we know if it is from God? It is for His glory and should be in line with God's Word.
4. Reverend Fear of Him Philippians 2:12
The meaning of "reverential fear of God" is to have deep respect and admiration for God
6. Come to the knowledge of Him 1 Timothy 2:4. 2 Peter 3:18
7. Put into practice all that we have learned Philippians 4:9, James 1:22-25
James 1:22-25 But be doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the Word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; 24 for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. 25 But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work,( in verse 25, why not doer of the work not doer of the Word? Because the doer of the Word of God is Jesus Christ Himself through the Holy Spirit, us as His vessel, for the glory of God, it is not us but Christ in us.) this one will be blessed in what he does.
Those who come to Him in faith now have freedom from the bondage of satan and are able to obey God. Christ alone can set us free and give us true liberty John 8:36.
8 Submission to God. What He did on the cross at Calvary Revelation 12:10
9. Be part of the Kingdom expansion
a. Ministry of reconcilation
b. Whatever you do to the list of your brother you do it to God.
c. Our giving
Jesus Christ brought here on earth:
- Salvation Ephesians 2:8
- Power 2 Timothy 1:7
- Kingdom of God - Colossians 1:13, Ephesians 2:6
- Authority James 4:7. Matthew 28:18-20
God restored His creation plan to man. 1 Thessalonians 5:23
1. The Father gave His Son, (flesh/body) 1 Corinthians 12:27
2. Jesus gave the Holy Spirit (Spirit) 1 Corinthians 6:17
3. How about us what can we give to God? Our Soul.
4. The Holy Spirit gave gifts and fruits
History:
God gave His Spirit when He created man. He breathed into his nostrils, and the man became a living soul. Genesis 2:7 Man was created in the image and likeness of God because of the Spirit of God. Man has divine nature, blameless, holy, and righteous. Man has a Godly mind and a glorified body. God gave Adam his authority over all things on this planet and crowned him with his glory Psalm 8: 4-5. He created Adam to rule with dominion, power, and authority given to man - a living, speaking spirit like his Creator. It is the nature of man to rule as it is the nature of God to rule. God's ordained authority is given to man as under God's rule.
Ephesians 3:19
Love
God’s love is so great that He gave His only Son to die for our sins and be resurrected. His love is characterized by grace, forgiveness, and is eternal, unconditional!
37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
10 Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed," says the Lord, who has compassion on you.
8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
WHAT CAN WE GIVE TO GOD?
They said, they would give their lives to God. How can you give what is not yours? Our lives are not ours. Our breath is His. What we have now, everything in our possession, we think is ours, is not ours. We were born here with nothing. We leave with nothing. He owns everything; everything belongs to God, God has just entrusted us, and he can take it anytime. Now, what can we give to God?
Honor
All we can give Him is the honor He deserves. He is the Most High God, 1 Chronicles 29:11-12 We have to value the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross. By this, we receive redemption (we are justified), sanctification, and adoptioon in exchange for His life. We should be the ones to be hurt, but God saved us from eternal damnation. In replaced for His life. We set free.
In the Old Testament, not everyone had access to God, only those who were chosen by God, such as the Levites, priest and the called ones. But because of what Jesus has done on the cross.(If God says something twice in the Bible meaning we have to pay attention to it.) We all have access to God, those who believed. 1 Peter 2:9
How do we honor God? Let God be God
1. Believing heart John 6:28-29
Believing heart is our beings. Our soul (mind, intellect, will, and emotion) human being
Never doubt God. He is Omnipotent- all-powerful, Omniscience- all-knowing, Omnipresent- present everywhere at once. He will fulfill all His plans for us. (God has given us Peace, but why can't we attain Peace? Because our soul and body move not in harmony with the Spirit of God. But when our body, and soul, are submitted, we have the Peace of God. So our body, soul, and spirit must submit to the word of God).He can accomplish infinitely more than our greatest desires. In Him, nothing is impossible.
2. Glory Him 1Corinthians 10:31 , 1 Thessalonian 5:16-18
God wanted us to have fellowship with Him. 1 Corinthians 1:9
The context of this verse includes our freedom to make personal choices in life, Our lips, Our mind, our walk, wherever we go, whatever we do, our ways, and all our plans and decisions are for His glory. Our "YES is for the glory of God, and our "NO" will not give glory to God.
3. Obedient heart John 14:23-24
It is easy to say that we love the Lord, but what is the proof? If we cannot follow God's still, small voice. God speaks to our hearts. The sheep hear his Vons ice. How would we know if it is from God? It is for His glory and should be in line with God's Word.
4. Reverend Fear of Him Philippians 2:12
The meaning of "reverential fear of God" is to have deep respect and admiration for God
6. Come to the knowledge of Him 1 Timothy 2:4. 2 Peter 3:18
7. Put into practice all that we have learned Philippians 4:9, James 1:22-25
James 1:22-25 But be doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the Word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; 24 for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. 25 But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work,( in verse 25, why not doer of the work not doer of the Word? Because the doer of the Word of God is Jesus Christ Himself through the Holy Spirit, us as His vessel, for the glory of God, it is not us but Christ in us.) this one will be blessed in what he does.
Those who come to Him in faith now have freedom from the bondage of satan and are able to obey God. Christ alone can set us free and give us true liberty John 8:36.
8 Submission to God. What He did on the cross at Calvary Revelation 12:10
9. Be part of the Kingdom expansion
a. Ministry of reconcilation
b. Whatever you do to the list of your brother you do it to God.
c. Our giving
Jesus Christ brought here on earth:
- Salvation Ephesians 2:8
- Power 2 Timothy 1:7
- Kingdom of God - Colossians 1:13, Ephesians 2:6
- Authority James 4:7. Matthew 28:18-20
God restored His creation plan to man. 1 Thessalonians 5:23
1. The Father gave His Son, (flesh/body) 1 Corinthians 12:27
2. Jesus gave the Holy Spirit (Spirit) 1 Corinthians 6:17
3. How about us what can we give to God? Our Soul.
4. The Holy Spirit gave gifts and fruits
History:
God gave His Spirit when He created man. He breathed into his nostrils, and the man became a living soul. Genesis 2:7 Man was created in the image and likeness of God because of the Spirit of God. Man has divine nature, blameless, holy, and righteous. Man has a Godly mind and a glorified body. God gave Adam his authority over all things on this planet and crowned him with his glory Psalm 8: 4-5. He created Adam to rule with dominion, power, and authority given to man - a living, speaking spirit like his Creator. It is the nature of man to rule as it is the nature of God to rule. God's ordained authority is given to man as under God's rule.
TIMES OF DIFFICULT SITUATIONS:
God Speaks:
God speaks in different ways. First, God speaks to us personally. If we do not notice, He will use another mouth. If we are not paying attention to it, God will use situation.
Every bad situation happens to people sometimes due to a bad calamity in our nature that is not under our control. Sometimes it is because of the mistakes of others like our loved ones or other people that we are affected. Sometimes due to the results of our wrong decisions and plans that we made. The only thing that changes our situations is by changing our thought.
Change of thoughts:
1. Jobs Deliverance Job 1:21
Job's wife wanted him to curse God, but he didn't. He said that everything he lost, even his family, was not his but God's. So God blessed him twice as much as what he lost.
2. Prodigal son deliverance Luke 15:16-18.
Whatever poverty and hunger the prodigal son suffered, he saw his father's goodness. He approached no one except his father. His father asks his servant to bring the best robe and put it on him. His father put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet.
3. Nebuchadnezzar's deliverance. Daniel 4:30-35
This Nebuchadnezzar recognized God's sovereignty. He praised the Most Hseigh God. He saw that only God has power in heaven and over the people of the earth. Man can do nothing unless God moves.
4. Deliverance of the Israelites (Exodus 14:13-16) Instead of being afraid, Moses clung to his faith in God. He listened to God's instruction.. Stand firm and Trust in the Lord.
5. Paul's deliverance Acts 16:25-26
Praise and worship
Praise and worship is our weapon to overcome every difficult situations with deception of the enemy. Because praise ad worship changes the atmosphere and it lighted the situation. Our present suffering (James 1:2-4) has glory in the future. (Romans 8:18) The work of the devil is for his defeat. (1 John 3:8) The God who calls and is with us is more powerful than the God of this world. (1 John 4:4)
Challenges in life:
Let us not think that God punishes us when we go through a trial. On the contrary, it is enough that God gave his only begotten Son that we should not suffer anymore. But why does God allows you to experience the pain, sickness, suffering, or discouragement it causes? Undoubtedly, some challenges in life result from the wrong things we have done. (Genesis 4:7) But for some believers, the truth is there are challenges in life as long as we live. If you are at fault, you will face the consequences of what you did. But if you do nothing wrong, you have a reward from God. (James 1:12, Romans 8:28).
Colossians 3:1-2
1. Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
THE WORD, THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE GIFT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS:
I. The Word
The Word of God is more than mere written or spoken language; it is alive, full of Spirit, and carries divine power. Jesus Christ embodies this Word in human form, demonstrating God’s Spirit through His life, teachings, and miracles. Conceived by the Holy Spirit, Jesus was set apart from birth as the holy Son of God, both fully divine and fully human, bringing God’s Spirit into the world in an unprecedented way.
This Spirit—God’s presence within and among us—is given to those who pursue righteousness and holiness. Yet, because humanity cannot attain these on its own, Jesus bridged the gap by taking on human nature, living a sinless life, and offering Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for sin. Through His sacrificial death, He offers believers both righteousness, received by faith, and holiness, accessed through the cleansing power of His blood.
When Jesus ascended, He did not leave His followers alone; He fulfilled His promise to send the Holy Spirit, who now dwells within every believer. This Spirit is God’s ongoing presence, empowering and sanctifying those who believe, enabling them to live in alignment with God’s ways. We receive the Spirit not because of our own deeds but because, through Jesus, God has made us righteous and holy. In this way, God’s Word, Spirit, and gift of righteousness become the foundation for every believer’s transformed life, continuously drawing them closer to God.
The Word and the Holy Spirit are together because if you have the Word of God but have not received the Holy Spirit, you are religious. You are only a Christian on the lips but not in the heart. You cannot understand the Word without the Holy Spirit in you. If you know the Word the devil also knows the Word. Born of God received both the Word and the Holy Spirit in your heart and mind.
- In humility receive the Word implanted, which is able to save your soul James 1:21
WORD OF GOD:
John 15:3 New King James Version
3 You are already clean because of the words which I have spoken to you.
John 17:17 New King James Version
17 Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.
Psalm 119:11 New King James Version
11 Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You.
There are things in the Bible that only apply to their culture and time and are not applicable in our time. There are things we can do according to our benefit, to the glory of God. Back then, women were only to keep silent, could not wear pants (Deuteronomy 22:5), and had long hair and a veil. It was shameful to cut or shave their heads (1 Corinthians 11:6). Some religious people still follow those traditions. Even the forbidden foods (1 Timothy 4:3-4). That is legalism and rituals (Colossians 2:16-19). Jesus set us free. If we know it will not be good, let us not do it, but if it is good and for the glory of God, let us do it. (1 Corinthians 10:23). Some things we think are good for us (Proverbs 14:12) do not bring glory to God. We have the Holy Spirit through Christ so that we can understand the things of God. (John 14:26)
Isaiah 55:11
so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.
The Holy Spirit performs the Word with the Following:
1. With Faith in the Word 1 Corinthians 15:2
2. With Obedience in the Word James 1:22-24
3. Use the Word in Prayer
4. The Word that. preach. The light of gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 2 Corinthians 4:4
Everyone needs each other:
- Jesus relies on the Father. John 12:49
- The Holy Spirit relies on Jesus John 16:13
- We must also rely on the Holy Spirit. Luke 12:12, Mathew 10:20
- We are the body of Christ. The body of Christ has its parts in one body. We need each other. Romans 12:5
The Word of God brings Spirit and life If the speaker of God's Word has faith, the Holy Spirit will reveal Himself through the Word. Faith is a gift of the Holy Spirit. It is from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the Word about Christ. Romans 10:17
- The Word changes lives. Never argue that it leads to a conflict or stripe.
II. The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit was present at the beginning of creation. He was there with God. Genesis 1:2 The Holy Spirit is waiting for the Word of God to carry it out. He is the one who performed the Word of the Father.
The Holy Spirit was given by God when He created man. He breathed into his nostrils, and the man became a living being, Genesis 2:7. Man was created in the image and likeness of God because of the Spirit of God. Man has a divine nature, blameless, holy, and righteous. Man has a Godly mind and a glorified body. God gave Adam authority over all things on this planet and crowned him with his glory Psalm 8: 4-5. He created Adam to rule - a living, speaking spirit like his Creator. It is the nature of man to rule as it is the nature of God to rule. God's ordained authority is given to man under God's rule.
I am going to send you what my Father has promised, but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” Luke 24:49
God sent His Holy Spirit through His Son, His Word became flesh, that He may restore His Spirit to man and be Godly nature, holy, righteous, and restored to his Kingdom with power and authority.
- The Holy Spirit is the executor of the Word. Genesis 1:2-3
The first Adam became a living being because of the Spirit of God who fell into sin. Now deathentered because of sin. But the second Adam is the life-giving Spirit. Jesus returned His Holy Spirit to the man when He breathed on the disciple. Jesus restored God's plan to those who receive the Holy Spirit.
Through the Holy Spirit we receive the ff.
Righteouness Galatians 5:5
Love Romans 5:5
When you received the Holy Spirit you have the following:
1. The Spirit of the LORD
2) The Spirit of wisdom
3) The Spirit of understanding
4) The Spirit of counsel
5) The Spirit of power
6) The Spirit of knowledge
7) The Spirit of the fear of the Lord
The Narrow and Wide Gates
The Narrow and Wide Gates “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. Mathew 7:13-14 How do you know you're one of the few?
Steps on how to enter the narrow gate?:
1. Born of the Spirit at God's perfect time John 3:8
2. He who calls on Him. Romans 10:13-14
3. He who believes the Word Romans 1:16, John 3:16
4. He who received, stands by the Word and holds on to it. 1Corinthians 15:1-2
- You cannot receive Him unless He receives you first 2Corinthians 6:17-18, John 1:12
5. Children Born of God John 1:13, John 3:5
LIVE IN THE SPIRIT: Romans 8:5-28, Galatians 5:17-25, Romans 7:10-25
THE WORD: John 1:1, 14, Mathew If you do not listen and believe the Word of God, you are an unbeliever. You are just like those standing crying out to crucify Him. Those people are rebellious. They are blinded by satan 2 Corinthians 4:4, Ephesians 2:2
WISDOM:
WHY DOES THE DEVIL HAS CONTROL: no control of your mouth James 3:2-12
WHO AMONG YOU HAVE KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE WORD? Having good life done in the humility that comes from heavenly wisdom. James 3:13
HOW PEOPLE DENY THE TRUTH? If they walk in earthly wisdom. James 3:14-16
2 KINDS OF WISDOM:
- Earthly Wisdom: James 3:14-16
- Heavenly Wisdom: James 3:17-18
There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.
COMMUNION is also meditation by nourishing the bread.
Spiritual Gift:
1 Corinthians 4:7 Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed.
1Corinthians 12: 4-11,27-31
There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. 5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. 6 There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.
7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 8 To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to other gifts of healing by that one Spirit, 10 to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.
27 Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. 28 And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues. 29 Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? 30 Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? 31 Now eagerly desire the greater gifts.
1Corinthians 13:1-3
If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels; but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but does not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.
HOLY SPIRIT
John 16:13
But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.
John 14:16-17 New International Version
16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.
John 1:26
But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have told you.
Having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.
We cannot see or understand the will of God unless we receive the Spirit that comes from God, 1 Corinthians 2:12.
The Word of God is Spirit. The Spirit was manifested through Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ was conceived by the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit can only be received through righteousness and holiness. Jesus Christ represents human beings offering redemption so we may receive righteousness by faith (Romans 3:22) and holiness through His blood. When He ascended, He gave us the Holy Spirit John 20:22, Acts 2t, and we received it because God made us righteous (walking by faith) and holy (walking with conviction, allowing us to live in holiness)
Here’s a refined summary with scriptural references to help clarify these theological concepts:
- The Word of God and the Spirit:
- In John 6:63, Jesus says, “The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.” The Word of God indeed has a spiritual dimension, empowered by the Spirit to give life and transform hearts.
- Additionally, John 1:1-3 reveals Jesus as the "Word" made flesh, who existed with God from the beginning, emphasizing that Jesus embodies the Word and is God.
- Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit:
- Jesus was indeed conceived by the Holy Spirit (Matthew 1:18-20), marking His birth as both divine and human. This conception reflects His unique nature as fully God and fully man.
- Receiving the Holy Spirit Through Faith in Christ:
- The Holy Spirit is a gift given to believers who come to God in faith through Jesus Christ. In Acts 2:38, Peter tells the crowd, "Repent, and be baptized...in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." This highlights that it’s through faith and repentance that we receive the Spirit, not through any self-attained righteousness.
- 2 Corinthians 5:21 reminds us that “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” We are made righteous by grace through faith in Christ.
- Righteousness and Holiness Through Christ's Sacrifice:
- Believers are made righteous and holy, not by their own works, but through the sacrifice of Jesus (Hebrews 10:10, Ephesians 2:8-9). Christ’s death on the cross paid for sin, and His blood cleanses believers from sin, enabling them to stand righteous before God.
- Holiness, as believers grow in faith, is cultivated by the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:16-25), who works within us to transform us more into the likeness of Christ.
- The Holy Spirit as Our Helper:
- Jesus promised the Holy Spirit to His followers (John 14:16-17), saying, “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever.” This Spirit enables us to live in righteousness and holiness as we are led by God’s power.
Summarized Clarification
The Word of God is indeed Spirit and life, embodied in Jesus Christ, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit and redeemed humanity through His sacrificial death. Through faith in Christ, believers are made righteous and holy, receiving the Holy Spirit as God’s empowering presence within us. The Holy Spirit is given not based on our own righteousness but as a gracious gift to those who place their faith in Christ, transforming us daily to reflect His holiness.
OUR FATHER:
We call Him Our Father:
When we pray, we call him "our Father." How can we prove that the Father we call is the Father who created heaven and earth?
There are two Spiritual Father
1. The devil John 8:44
2. Jesus Christ Isaiah 9:6, Isaiah 45:18 He is the only Creator
3 Kinds of Heaven
1. First heaven - the Kingdom of God Romans 8:9, Colossians 1:13-14, Isaiah 40:5 (when you hear from God)
2. Second heaven - heavenlies Ephesians 6:12
3. Third heaven - throne of God Psalm 47:8
- God is on His throne in heaven, His Spirit is with us through the Holy Spirit, and Jesus is our life, way, and truth.
THE FLESH AND SPIRIT;
Body, Soul and Spirit
I Thessalonians 5:23 "May your whole spirit, soul and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus"
Three Composition of Man: 1Thessalonians 5:23
- Body: The house of the soul and the Spirit
After the Cross: Flesh Galatians 5:24
- Spirit: Before the creation, the Spirit of God, Genesis 2:7
After the fall of Adam, the Spirit of the world. 1Corinthians 15:22, Ephesians 2:2
After the Cross, the Holy Spirit John 20:22, 1 Corinthians 6:17 (one spirit with Him)
3. Soul: Parts of the soul:
Mind (disposition) Proverbs 2:10
Emotions (feeling) Psalm 13:2, Jeremiah 17:9
Will (what we determine) Proverbs 19:21, Lamentations 3:20
What happens after Death
Body: Going back to the ground. Genesis 3:19
Spirit: Going back to the Lord. Ecclesiastes 12:7
Soul: Being judged either Eternal Life or Eternal Death. Matthew 25:46, Revelation 21:8
- Eternal Death is only for unbelievers. Believers, their citizenship is in heaven. Those in Christ who died seem to have only slept in this world when they opened their eyes; they are already in God.
Flesh and the Spirit
The Father gave His Son, (flesh)
Jesus gave the Holy Spirit (Spirit)
The Holy Spirit gave gifts and fruits
How about us what can we give to God? (Soul)
After the Fall:
Flesh - Physical body, Physical nature, worldly spirit, bad
Worldly 1 John 2:16
1. Lust of the flesh
2. Pride of life
3. Lust of t eye
Spirit - Spiritual body, Spiritual nature, Word spirit, Person's spirit good Person
1. Walk in the Spirit
2. Humility
3. Faith
For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.
When God created man, God's Spirit was in man when He breathed into him. Because of the fall of man, a man died in the Spirit and the spirit of the world entered. Ephesians 2:2
SIN, RIGHTEOUSNESS AND JUDGEMENT:
John 16:8-11
8 When He comes, He will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment:
9 about sin, because people do not believe in me;
10 about righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer; 11 and about judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned.
John 16:7
Who is it referring to? Holy Spirit
God sent His only Son, Jesus who became a human being, so that people could receive the Holy Spirit through Him.
How did you receive the Holy Spirit?
In the time of the disciples, Jesus himself breathed on them before He ascended into heaven. How did we receive the Holy Spirit in our generation? How does God breathe on us? 2 Timothy 3:16, John 6:63, when you believe in what you heard (Galatians 3:2)
We were saved because we received and believed the gospel of Jesus John 1:14
Some born-again Christians thought that because they did not speak in tongues, they were not baptized with the Holy Spirit. You are not born again if you are not baptized with the Holy Spirit. If you are not baptized by the Holy Spirit, you will not understand the word of God. You will not understand the things of God because you do not have the gift of the Spirit, Isaiah 11:1-2,Romans 12:6-8 such as faith, knowledge, understanding, fear of the Lord (wisdom), power, and might. The gift of tongues and the working of miracles, if you desire it by faith, you will receive it.
What is the world point of view about Sin, Righteousness and Judgement?:
About Sin:
- Sin separated us from God Isaiah 59:2 However, through Jesus Christ's death and resurrection, the power of sin to separate us from God has been broken. Because of Christ's love and grace, believers can now approach God with confidence, knowing that nothing can separate them from His love Romans 5:20-21, Romans 8:32-39. Jesus Christ addresses the problem of sin, which is the disobedience and rebellion against God's perfect standards.
- The reason why Jesus died was to resolve what was stated in Isaiah 59:2. Jesus took upon Himself the sins of the world (Psalm 22:1) to remove its power, which brought curses and death to mankind, and in exchange, He offered His righteousness (Romans 8:3-4). He took on the role of a sinner to restore those who were separated from God because of sin.
- The Holy Spirit reveals that all have sinned and fall short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23). Without Christ, humanity stands condemned, as sin separates us from God and created a barrier in relationship with Him.
About Righteousness:
The worldly view of righteousness is often shaped by human standards, cultural norms, and societal expectations. It focuses on external actions and the knowledge of good and evil. It is reputation-based, emphasizing being seen as a good person in the eyes of others, often striving for approval or recognition. However, it is not our obedience that makes us righteous but the obedience of His Son (Romans 5:19-20). Our righteousness comes through faith in Christ.
- Through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, God’s standard of righteousness is fulfilled. The Spirit convicts us that Jesus’ ascension to the Father confirms His authority and righteousness, which will judge all humanity.
About Judgement:
The worldly view of judgment is frequently biased, inconsistent, and influenced by human emotions or perspectives. People often judge based on appearances, achievements, or failures, seeking to justify themselves or condemn others.
- God's judgment is against Satan and his followers. He will not judge a man unless man judges himself (Matthew 7:1).
- John 16:11 declares that "the ruler of this world is judged." Satan, the source of evil and deception, has already been defeated through Christ's victory on the cross. This assures believers that ultimate justice will prevail.
What is Sin and Righteousness?
SIN - Satan In Nature
RIGHTEOUSNESS - The Nature of Jesus Christ 2 Corinthians 4:4
The difference between unbelievers and believers regarding sin, righteousness and judgment
Unbeliever:
Sin (manifest in the flesh, prisoner to sin) - Law breaker 1John 3:4
Righteousness (self righteousness) - Good work / knowing the good and the bad
Judgement - Wrath of God Romans 1:18,
Believer
Sin (The flesh was crucified with Christ) - because people do not believe in me; Romans 14:23
Righteousness - because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer;
Judgement - judgment, because the prince of this world now stands Romans 5:9, Luke 6:37
The way you treat people shows your relationship with the Lord. You can't say you have the right relationship with God if you don't have the right relationship with people. If you love God, you will also love His redeemed. How can you say you love God if you don't love the person you see
1. Comfort others as I comfort you 2 Corinthians 1:4
2. If you love your brother, you obey God's commandment John 13:34
3. What you did to your brother, you did to God. Matthew 25:40
4. If you don't forgive your brother, God won't forgive you Matthew 6:15
5. If you judge your brother, God will judge you Romans 14:12-13
BELIEVERS:
One of our Identity is being a believer:
There are many, but we will discuss just one.
- We are identified as believers because we believe to the one He has sent. John 6:29
Non-believers also believe in Jesus Christ. But what is the difference between them and us? They also call Jesus Lord. They also experience Jesus's miracles, signs, and wonders and serve Jesus in their religion. So what does Matthew 7:21-23 say? Do you know why? Because they don't have a real relationship with God. He became our father
1. We are children of God John 1:12-13, Romans 8:16, , Romans 9:6-9
We are children of God adopted into the family of God when we received the Holy Spirit. Galacia 4:6
- We are called believers because we believe that God raised Him from the dead. Romans 10:9
- Because we are believers, we benefit from the following:
1. We are justified Acts 13:39
We are believers of Jesus Christ. We are forgiven and set free from every sin and justified through Him.
3. We are born again John 1:13, John 3:5, Ephesians 5:26, John 6:63
. He has given us new birth into a living hope (Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 8:38-39) 1Peter 1:3
4. We are one Spirit with Him 1 Corinthians 6:17
5. We have eternal life John 13:15
6. We hold firmly to the Word of God 1 Corinthians 15:2
God, the father, gave Jesus Christ to make us free. Jesus Christ gave the Holy Spirit to keep us free.
REPENTANCE "METANOIAH:
Repentance
Repentance in greek words is Meta-noia meaning change of mind. Romans 12:2
1. When the prodigal son realized that his Father is good Luke 15:16-18
He changed his mind. He meditated on the goodness of his Father. Even though he has not been able to approach the Father to ask for forgiveness, his Father has already met him from afar to put a robe and a ring on him.
2. When Nebuchadnezzar acknowledges that the God is sovereign over everything Daniel 4:30-35
He focused his eyes on God. All that was lost on him was restored by God.
3. Jesus saw the woman's love to Him Luke 7:44-50
Jesus forgave all her sins because God saw the love in his heart
4. Jesus saw Zacchaeus persistence to see him
Zacchaeus - Luke 19:1-10
He was persistent in seeing Jesus, and he invited Jesus to his home.
5. He believed in Jesus Luke 23:40-43
The thief nailed to the cross next to Jesus. He just said to remember him if Jesus is already in His kingdom.
Zacchaeus approached Jesus and invited Jesus to his home because the paralytic believed in the power of Jesus. The thief who nailed to the cross recognized who Jesus was. Jesus forgave them all. Much more than Jesus gave his life; He died so that our sins are forgiven and no longer have power over us. Because of His blood (Ephesians 1:7) and body (Hebrews 10:19-20) that hung on the cross, we can approach God at any time (Hebrews 4:16) with or without sin because we are God's children. (Galatians 4:6) Sin can no longer separate us from God (Romans 8:38-39). The Spirit that we received, the same Spirit that brought Jesus to life (Romans 6:10-11) You have authoruty over sin. You sinned because the spirit of this world deceived you. Identify your sin, submit to God's Word and resist the evil spirit. (Matthew 12:28)
You must know your position in Christ:
1. We are Born of God (children of God) John 1:13
2. We are overcomer 1 John 5:4
3. We are one in Christ. 1 Corinthians 6:17-19
God does not look at our sin, He looks at our position (Proverbs 24:16) and our growth (2 Peter 3:18), and our faith (Galatians 3:26,). The truly born again, though he sins, does not continue in sin (1 John 3:6). Said in the Gospel of John 15:3 You have been cleansed by the word that I have spoken to you. Do only God's will in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 and do only what God tells you to do John 6:28-29.
Our mind should be focus on God.
"Remember not the former things, nor consider the former things." That's what the Bible said to receive new things. Paul encouraged the believers to stop looking back, letting go the past and stay focused on the goal of the future and shedding every weight that slows us down, especially past sins that easily brings us down, past mistakes, past accomplishments, and the opinion of other. Running with endurance the race that God has set before us. Jesus also said that no one puts his hand to the plow and looks back (Isaiah 43:18-19, Luke 9:62).
Confession of Sin:
Confession of sins and repentance are always go together. Confession without repentance is meaningless, and repentance without confession is not true repentance.
Confession: True confession is the remorse of something that leads you to turn away from sin. Recognition of the sins committed, renouncing, resisting, and casting them out.
Repentance: It's a change of thought. In the Greek word "Metanoia."
- The Christian immediately asks God for forgiveness if he makes a mistake and resists, directly casting out the wicked spirit. He is not giving the devil a chance to put guilt (lay blame) and condemnation. So that we can approach God with boldness. Hebrews 4:16, Ephesians 3:12
By confessing the sin committed, God said that if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1John 1:9
He has not dealt with us according to our sins Nor punished us according to our iniquities. Psalm 103:10
However, our wrong behavior, speech, attitude, and disobedience sometimes have consequences in the land; we must suffer. Although it was not God who gave our sufferings, He allowed things because, remember, we have not only sinned against God. We have also sinned against man and the law of the land. Therefore, the individual must admit his offenses to the person he has wronged. It is necessary to apologize and get his forgiveness from that person. We are also subject to the governing authorities. If our sin is a crime, we must bear the consequences of our actions, such as punishment or imprisonment. Again, it depends on the type of sin we have committed. These things do not affect a person's attitude toward God. He always sees His covenant in the Blood of Jesus - pure and whole. But we must go through our learning process. So focus on His righteousness in us and remove our focus on our shortcomings. The gift of righteousness will work into our lives because of God's love for us. That's why Devid said, "I am in deep distress. Let us fall into the hands of the Lord, for his mercy is great; but do not let me fall into human hands." 2 Samuel 24:14
- If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it." Genesis 4:7
We can only overcome SIN (Satan In Nature) with the following:
A. Return to God. Zechariah 1:3, Isaiah 30:15
B. Confess our sins: The fruits of our confession and repentance are as follows:
1. Remove us from guilt Leviticus 5:5 Psalm 32:5
2. Will be refreshed us Acts 3:19
3. Purify us 1 John 1:9
4. Heal us. James 5:16
- Confessing one's sins can positively affect an individual's health because it is comforting to let go of the secrets he holds within. And sin is a door for the devil to accomplish his purpose. To kill, steal and destroy John 10:10
5. Prosper us Proverbs 28:13
C. Renounce 2 Corinthians 4:2
D. Humility before the Lord 2 Chronicles 7:14
E. Submit to God James 4:7
Sin exists in the world, and it is the nature of Satan; he has power over those who live in the flesh, driven by their sinful nature (2 Corinthians 4:4). However, the elect, who walk in the Spirit, possess the nature of Christ, and Satan has no power over them. Satan's only power is to deceive people, implanting lies in their minds (1 Peter 5:8). But if you are a mature Christian, you can discern his tactics and refuse to agree with his lies. We cannot prevent the devil from doing his work because that is his ministry; he moves swiftly, knowing that his time is short (Job 1:7). If we fall victim to his tactics, we have the Holy Spirit to assist us. We have God's grace to guide our path. God is incredibly patient with us (2 Peter 3:9). Simply submit to God, resist the devil James 4:7, fear the Lord and shun evil, Proverbs 14:16.
Asking for forgiveness
Asking for forgiveness, again and again, is for those condemned by satan. Satan deceives them by putting in their mind God has not forgiven them. (1 John 1:9, Romans 6:14, Psalm 130:3-4) When we make mistakes or commit sins, the Spirit grieves, and we are sorrowful. That Godly sorrow will lead us to repentance.
2 Kinds of person who sin 2 Corinthians 7:10
- Godly Grief - His grief produces repentance and turns away from past sins.
- Worldly Grief - You feel bad about past sins. Full of regrets, but they don't want to change. We want to live the same as we have been.
Those who truly walk with the Lord immediately ask for forgiveness and avoid evil, for the honor we should give God because He is the first to grieve when Satan deceives us. God gave His life to us once and for all. We ask for forgiveness not because we fear the consequences but because we love God, and we must preserve the righteousness out of respect for Him. He gave us by acknowledging what He did on the cross of Calvary. Every time we wake up every day because of His great faithfulness, God says there is new every morning; yesterday is gone, and the new has come. Don't dwell on old things (Isaiah 43:18). You can't regret yesterday's mistake because God said to forget the past, not dwell on old things. He did not punish us for what our sins deserve. (Psalm 103:10).
If we say we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us. (1 John 1:10) Although we sin, we do not continue in sin. (1 John 3:6). God's kindness leads you to repentance. Romans 2:4
Consequences of sin:
Why did people suffer for the sins they committed? Because satan deceived them, they distanced themselves from their fellowship with God, and they could not approach the holiness of God (Hebrews 4:16) because they looked at themselves, what they did, and not what God did on the cross. (Hebrews 12:2) We have our mediator, Jesus, our Savior, when we sin (1 Timothy 2:5). God's Word that we should believe more than satan's lies. When Satan says something to us, we should not talk to him (James 4:7). When you pay attention to Satan and respond to his lies, he will stay with you because you are still talking to him. No matter who you talk to, his presence is there. Talk to God instead. True repentance in the Greek Word is "metanoia, which means a change of mind. Let us turn our minds from the lies of this world to the Word of God. (Colossians 2:8) Our sufficiency is the Lord (2 Corinthians 3: 5). Not by power but by the Spirit, says the Lord (Zechariah 4:6)
Our sufferings are not because of the devil but because of God. Because of our obedience to the gospel of truth. Jesus already suffered for the sins of the world. Jesus overcame all the consequences of sin. The Bible says that Jesus has received all the wages of sin, but the suffering, as happened to the disciples who followed God, is the suffering of believers. (John 15:18)
No condemnation
When you sin, ask God for forgiveness, and He will forgive you 1John 1:9. No condemnation to the one who repented. Judgment begins in the house of the Lord. 1 Peter 4:17. God's Word will judge the living and the dead. 1 Peter 4:5
Change of Mind
We must turn from sin and have faith in our Lord Jesus. Acts 20:21
Elementary Doctrine
True repentance is to cease sin Luke 5:32, and wicked Acts 8:22. God wanted us to mature and leave the elementary doctrine of Christ, not laying a foundation of repentance Hebrews 6:1 again.
THE GODLY LIFE:
Anything we do repeatedly can become a habit. Some habits are good, and others can be destructive. Some habits can lead us away from God, while others can strengthen our walk with Him by helping us live a godly life.
A godly life means living a life focused on heavenly things instead of temporal things. The godly life is about seeking the kingdom of heaven above all else (Matthew 6:33). Godly life does not mean a perfect life but rather a complete surrender to God.
Certain things in the Word of God will help us live a godly life, which should be a part of our daily life as believers.
- The Work of God John 6:28-29
- The will of God 1Thessalonians 5:16-18
- God requires us to do Micah 6:8
THE CALL OF GOD:
Confirming One’s Calling and Election
Verse 3
His Divine Power (All who believe and receive the Lord have divine power. It means you have the Holy Spirit. Because Jesus told the disciples to wait for what the Father promised the Holy Spirit. Jesus said, John, who baptized in water, but in a few days, you will be baptized by the Holy Spirit. Even Paul said in Acts 19:2-7 (When you were immersed in the water, is a public confession. You died with Christ, and when you were raised from the water, you were raised with Him Romans 14:8) The manifestation in baptism of the Holy Spirit is not just speaking in tongue). He has given us everything (spiritual blessings) we need (grace) for a godly life through our knowledge of him (Word) who called us by his own glory and goodness.
Divine Power- Is the Holy Spirit (the Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead is in us, it also means that the Spirit who daily quickens us to eternal life). We are one spirit with Him)
Spiritual blessing in Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit such as:
1). Redemption or justification Ephesians 1:7, Hebrews 9:15,
What about sin committed under the new and everlasting covenant? If you say you do not sin, you are a liar. We sin, but we are no longer sinners. We no longer continue to sin. When Adam was created, man was Godly, but after the fall of man became sinful, but when Jesus came, he took man's sin and replaced it with his righteousness. Because of this we have peace with God. It means that the blood of Jesus has redeemed us from the sin that causes guilt and condemnation to eternal death.
2). Sactification John 15:3, Ephesians 5:26, John 17:17
If I do not wash your feet, you have no part with me. Why do you think Jesus wanted to wash His disciples' feet? What do the feet symbolize? Because it's the feet that will walk in the righteousness of God. God made you righteous,but we must walk and train in righteousness. You are not part of the Lord if you are not walking in His righteousness because the sandals of the gospel of peace are on your feet.
3). Adoption, Romans 8:15
Verse 4
Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, (Salvation) so that through them you may participate in the divine nature,(Righteousness) having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. (walk in the Spirit)
Verse 5
For this very reason, make every effort (what is our work or effort that God requires us? John 6:28-29) to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge;
Verse 6
And to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness;
Verse 7
And to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.
4). The gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit
GIFTS: We receive by faith through grace
1. Wisdom - fear of the Lord
2. Knowledge - Word of God
3. Faith - Hearing and hearing the Word
4. Healing - faith, praise and worship
5. Miraculous Powers - glory of God
6. Prophesy - Word of God
7. Distinguishing between Spirits (discernment) - Prayer
8. Speaking in tongues - Laying of hands, praise and worship and desiring it
9. Interpretation of Tongues - prayer and focus on the Lord
FRUITS: If you abide in the vine
1. Love
2. Joy
3. Peace
4. Patience
5. Kindness
6. Goodness
7. Gentleness
8. Faithfulness
9. Self Control
Five Folds is an office, a calling, a function not just a position. To equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built ups : Ephesians 4:11-13
1. The Apostles
2. The prophet
3. The evangelists
4. The pastors
5. The Teachers,
Verse 8
For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Verse 9
But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins.
Verse 10
Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort (And you are being saved if you ·continue believing if you hold firm to the word of God, unless you believed ·for nothing. You are just a superficial Christian, sympathizer, professing Christian). to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble. Ephesians 5:8
1 Timothy 2:4
Who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. God wanted us to be discipled.1 Corinthians 15:2
John 12:23
The Son Himself (Jesus) But Jesus answered them, saying, “The hour has come that the Son of Man should be glorified.
John 12:28
Father, glorify Your name.” Then a voice came from heaven, saying,“I have both glorified it and will glorify it again.”
What God wants from us is the following:
1. What is the work God wanted us to do for Him? John 6:28-29, believes (Acts 13:39. John 3:16
2. What does God need from us? Luke 10:38-42
3. What does the Lord require of us?Micah 6:8
Love mercy Matthew 9:13, Matthew 5:7, Hosea 6:6
4. What is the will of God in us? 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
1 Corinthians 15:2
By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain.
1Corinthians 1:26-31
Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28 God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29 so that no one may boast before him. 30 It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written: “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.”[d]
THE POWER OF SONG IN WORSHIP AND PRAISE
How God Keeps Us Through Song"
God uses song to uplift, teach, unite, and sustain His people.
- Testimony and Witness Through Song (Psalm 40:3 ): God inspires songs of praise that lead others to trust in Him, using song as a means of testimony and witness.
- Renewing Faith ( Psalm 96:1-2): Singing to the Lord is a continual act that helps believers focus on God’s salvation and His ongoing work in the world.
- Unity in Worship (Psalm 95:1-2 ): Song is a communal activity that unites believers in joy and gratitude, reinforcing faith and reliance on God, the 'Rock of salvation'.
- Encouraging One Another (Ephesians 5:19): Song is used to praise God and as a means of encouraging one another, building up the faith community through spiritual songs.
- Teaching and Admonishing Through Music (Colossians 3:16, Ephesians 5:19): Music is a vehicle for teaching and admonishing one another with the wisdom and teachings of Christ, communicated and internalized through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.
- Praising God's Goodness (Psalm 147:1) Praising God through song is both a duty and a delightful response to God’s character and works.
- Inclusive Worship (Psalm 150:6): The universal call to praise highlights worship through song as a fundamental aspect of life.
- Divine Intervention in Battle (2 Chronicles 20:21-22): God's power is manifested as His people sing and praise, leading to victory over invading forces.
- Miraculous Deliverance (Acts 16:25-26): Paul and Silas experience God's deliverance through an earthquake while praying and singing hymns, showing God's intervention in response to worship.
- Healing Through Music (1 Samuel 16:23): David's playing of the lyre brings relief and healing to Saul, demonstrating the therapeutic power of spiritual music.
- Strength in Adversity (Exodus 15:1-2): The Israelites' song of victory and praise to the Lord after crossing the Red Sea shows how song gives strength and acknowledges God as their salvation.
- God's Enthronement in Praise (Psalm 22:3): Praising God enthrones Him as the Holy One, recognized and revered by His people.
- Presence of God in Music (2 Kings 3:15): The playing of a harpist brings about the hand of the Lord upon Elisha, indicating God's presence in and response to music.
These verses demonstrate how worship and praise can be a catalyst for experiencing God’s power, be it through miraculous intervention, spiritual deliverance, or divine inspiration. They underscore the belief that worship not only honors God but also invites His active presence and power into the lives of worshippers.