Pensacola Helene Jefferson's Blog, page 15

GOD’S WORD IS SPIRIT AND NOT HUMAN TRANSLATIONS, VERSIO...

 

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GOD’S WORD IS SPIRIT AND NOT HUMAN TRANSLATIONS, VERSIONS, AND LANGUAGES.

“…THE WORDS THAT I SPEAK unto you, they ARE SPIRIT…” (John 6:63 KJV) “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).

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Translations and versions of the BIBLE serve the purposes of providing a VOICE, OUTLET, or CONDUIT for God’s WORD. The BIBLE has been recorded in different languages and offers people a clearer revelation of who God is throughout the WORLD.

When the WORD came through earthen vessels it ALWAYS spoke in the language of the people that God sent his MESSAGES to.

There is an ongoing debate over the proper, or the better, or the more authentic, or the best translation or version of the bible.

The importance of the BIBLE is “NOT” the human debate over the better or most authentic, human translation or version.

The most important purpose of the BIBLE is God’s MESSAGE and its miraculously ability to sustain God’s POWERFUL WORDS which are SPIRIT as well as HOLY. “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “… I AM HOLY…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV). “… “I AM” WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  

 It is the HOLY SPIRIT that gives LIFE. It is the SPIRIT of his WORD that has the POWER to SAVE and TRANSFORM lives. It is the SPIRIT of the WORD that transforms the human life and the human mind.

No matter how great human translators are or how careful they try to keep the authenticity of the biblical text, without God, it would be impossible!  “….Apart from Me (God, the Holy Spirit), you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).  “…our great power is from God…” (2 Corinthians 4:5-7 NLT).

 “…NOT that [you]… are ADEQUATE IN [YOURSELVES]… to consider anything as coming from [yourselves]… but [YOUR]… ADEQUACY IS FROM GOD…” (2 Corinthians 3:5 NASB). “…Human effort [alone]… accomplishes nothing.” (John 6:63 NLT). “…the flesh profiteth NOTHING…” (John 6:63 KJV “….THE WORDS that I speak unto you, they are SPIRIT,…” (John 6:63 KJV).

 “…It is… GOD WHO “DOES” THE WORK IN AND THROUGH all of us who are his. The Holy Spirit “displays” God’s power THROUGH each of us…” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

It is God, the HOLY SPIRIT, ALONE that SUSTAINS the ANOINTING POWER inherent in the WORD. AND regardless of flawed humanity and the various translations and versions of the bible; its POWER is FROM God! “…our great power is from God…” (2 Corinthians 4:5-7 NLT).

It is NOT too hard for God, the HOLY SPIRIT, to SUSTAIN the anointing POWER of his WORD; nor is it IMPOSSIBLE! “…I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). “…The things which are impossible with men … [are]… POSSIBLE [with God] …” (Luke 18:27 KJV). “…he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “…In him ALL THINGS …hold together…” (Colossians 1:7 NIV).

The MIRACLE in having multiple translations and versions of the BIBLE is NOT in the human effort to sustain the best translation or version. “…In him ALL THINGS …hold together…” (Colossians 1:7 NIV).

The MIRACLE of having multiple translations and versions of BIBLE is God’s ANOINTING POWER to continue to SPEAK, in spite of human flaws and weaknesses and SUSTAIN his POWER to SAVE and TRANSFORM lives “…The things which are impossible with men … [are]… POSSIBLE [with God] …” (Luke 18:27 KJV).

The SOVEREIGN God manages to SPEAK his WORD through these translations, versions, and languages with enough SUSTAINING POWER to SAVE and TRANSFORM. “…he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV

If you DEPENDED upon a WORD from God to SAVE you and if you depended upon a WORD from God that also filled you with the INDWELLING Holy SPIRIT; God has PROVED the SUSTAINING POWER of his WORD. Therefore, NOTHING is “too hard” for God’s POWER. “…I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV).

Thus, you can DEPEND UPON the indwelling Holy Spirit to LEAD and GUIDE you into the truth! “… The Spirit of truth (the WORD) …will guide you into all the truth. …” (John 16:13 NIV). “…BY THE WORD of the Lord … [GOD GUIDES HIS PEOPLE] …” (Psalms 33:6 NASB).

Nonetheless, there are multiple translations and versions that create conflict and division among God’s people, but God is a God of order NOT confusion. “…God is not a God of disorder but of peace…” (1 Corinthians 14:33 NIV). “…Let all things be done decently and in order….” (1 Corinthians 14:40 KJV).

God WANTS mankind to KNOW him. God WANTS to, particularly, REVEAL himself to his people. Remember, the WORD drew you to God through love and kindness. “… I … WILL DRAW all men unto me…” (John 12:32 KJV). “…I have drawn youwith unfailing kindness…” (Jeremiah 3:13 NIV). “… I … [love] you with an everlasting love…I …[draw]… you with lovingkindness…” (Jeremiah 31:3 NASB).

The controversy and issues over translations and versions is a human problem that has caused division in God’s churches for years and years. “… [Everyone] … who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children. [They]…are [ALL]… part of the same body, and enjoy the promise of blessings because THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).  “……There is NEITHER Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female…” (Galatians 3:26-28 KJV). “…God SHOWS NO FAVORITISM.  In every nationHE ACCEPTS thosewho fear him and do what is right…” (Acts 10:34-36 NLT). “…God is no RESPECTER OF PERSONS: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him…(Acts 10:34-36 KJV).

Search, investigate, inquire, study, and depend upon the indwelling Holy Spiritto help you discover a translation or version that SPEAKS to YOU. “… The Spirit of truth (the indwelling Holy Spirit) …will guide you into all the truth. …” (John 16:13 NIV). “…let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. …” (Galatians 5 NLT).

One of the translations or versions WILL SPEAK to your indwelling SPIRIT. God WORKS providentially to SUSTAIN and HOLD together HIS SALVATION and TRANSFORMING message. “…In him ALL THINGS …hold together…” (Colossians 1:7 NIV). “… [God is]…sustaining ALL THINGS… by his powerful word…” (Hebrews 1:3 NIV).

The BIBLE, therefore, that is RIGHT for you will DRAW you CLOSER to God and you will BECOME loving like God (1 Corinthians 13). “…Every one that loveth (others and themselves) is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not (others or themselves) knoweth not God; for God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).

BECOMING loving is a SIGN (the fruit of the SPIRIT is LOVE) that YOU ARE getting to KNOW GOD. “…The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).  

Godly LOVE is a SIGN you ARE BECOMING A true disciple that is GROWING and DEVELOPING in God’s GRACE and KNOWLEDGE (with inherent SPIRIT and POWER). “…A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another…” (John 13:34-35 KJV). “…Beloved, let us love one another (including yourself): for love is of God; and every one that loveth (others and themselves) is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not (others or themselves) knoweth not God; for God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).

“….THE WORDS that I speak unto you, they are SPIRIT, and theyare life…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…MY WORD …shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV).

DESPITE the many translations or versions of the bible God’s true WORD is “STILL” and always will be…SPIRIT!! “….THE WORDS that I speak unto you, they are SPIRIT…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).  “… The Spirit of truth …will guide you into all the truth. …” (John 16:13 NIV). “…Thy WORD is truth…” (JOHN 17:17 KJV).

You can be CONFIDENT that GOD’S WORD is TRUTH and it WILL accomplish its PURPOSES; such as SAVING and TRANSFORMING! “…MY WORD …shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV).

God PROMISES you that if you SEEK him you will FIND HIM and find his directions for your life. “…ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart…” (Jeremiah 29:13 KJV). “…If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me…” (Jeremiah 29:13 NLT). “…I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye…” (Psalms 32:8 KJV).

“Trust in (depend upon) the Lord with all thine heart; and LEAN NOT unto thine own understanding…” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “…eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into [the human]… heart … the things which God hath prepared for [those who depend upon his guidance]....” (1 Corinthians 2:9 KJV). Some of “…his ways [of guiding, his people, are]… past finding out…” (Romans 11:33-34 KJV).

He will lead and guide you into ALL TRUTH and the right translation and version of the BIBLE. TRUST and DEPEND upon God. the INDWELLING SPIRIT. “… The Spirit of truth (the indwelling Spirit) …will guide you into all the truth. …” (John 16:13 NIV). “…BY THE WORD of the Lord … [GOD GUIDES HIS PEOPLE] …” (Psalms 33:6 NASB).“…All things  (revelation and knowledge of God) came into being through [THE WORD], and apart from [the word] nothing came into being that has come into being … (John 1:1-4 NASB).

Remember THE WORD of God is not just the WRITTEN word, but ALSO the LIVING WORD which is INSIDE you. (through the indwelling Holy SPIRIT). “…It is God (the indwelling spirit) who works in you…” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “…The God of peace … that great Shepherd of the sheep, … work[s] in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ (the word)…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…I can do all things through Christ (the word) which strengtheneth me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

Thus, the INDWELLING Holy Spirit is there to guide you. “…let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. …” (Galatians 5 NLT). “…“I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.…” (Psalms 32:8 KJV). “…God is [the HOLY] Spirit…” (John 4:24 KJV).“…the [HOLY] … Spirit of God dwell in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).Therefore, “… the Lord your God, …teaches you what is best for you, [and]…directs you in the way you should go.” (Isaiah 48:17).  “I will instruct you and guide you in the way you should go; I will fix My eyes upon You…” (Psalm 32:8)

“…I have shown you how you should find the way in which you should walk…” (Isaiah 48:17). “…So I say, let the [indwelling] Holy Spirit guide your lives. … …” (Galatians 5 NLT).

There will ALWAYS be multiple translations, versions, different languages, diverse opinions, and endless interpretations of the bible, but there will ALWAYS and ONLY be “ONE” God and HOLY SPIRIT. “…There is ONE … God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all,and in you all….” (Ephesians 4:4-5 KJV). “… There is but one God…” (1 Corinthians 8:6 KJV). “….The LORD is our GOD, the LORD is ONE…” (Deuteronomy 6:4 KJV). “…There is no God, but ONE…” (1 Corinthians 8:4 KJV).

Most of God’s people PREFER to be DIVIDED by their DIFFERENCES instead of being UNITED by WHAT and WHO matters MOST: Jesus, the WORD.

DIVISION is about the FLESH and UNITY is about the HOLY SPIRIT.

DIVISION, for one reason or another, is the reason there are so many different churches

UNITY, of God’s SPIRIT, bonds by love, connects through the HOLY SPIRIT, and shares purpose through Jesus Christ. “…Love… is the perfect BOND of unity...” (Colossians 3:14 NASB). “…He that is JOINED unto the Lord is ONE Spirit…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).

It is important, but NOT as important to agree on translations and versions as much as it is to agree on LOVE and UNITY. “…LOVE one another, even as I have loved you…” (John 13:34-35 KJV)."…In everything, therefore, TREAT people the same way you want them to TREAT you, for this is the Law and the Prophets…” (Matthew 7:12 NASB).

TRANSLATIONS VERSIONS, LANGUAGES, INTERPRETATIONS, CULTURES, and INTELLECTUALISM have become CHASMS and BARRIERS between God’s OWN people.

God’s OWN people FAIL to remember there was ONCE an impenetrable CHASM and BARRIER between themselves (sinful mankind) and GOD (Holy Spirit). Yet God’s LOVE made a WAY to REMOVE the DIVISION instead of sustaining it. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). . “…Your INIQUITIES (sin) have separated between you and your God (holy) …” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…It’s YOUR SINS that have cut you off from God (who is HOLY)…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT). “…between us and you a great chasm(barrier) has been set in place…” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB

“…what fellowship  (COMMON GROUND) hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion  (COMMON GROUND) hath light with darkness? And what concord (COMMON GROUND) hath Christ with Belial? Or what part (COMMON GROUND) hath he that believeth with an infidel?” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV).

 “…God is not human …” (Numbers 23:19 NIV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…. [Yet], YOU THOUGHt i, (God, the HOLY SPIRIT) was EXACTLY like you….” (Psalms 50:21 NIV). “…between us (the spiritual world and you (the natural world) a great chasm(barrier) has been set in place…” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB).

God DID NOT allow the DIVISION to continue on and on. he SENT his Son!! “…[God]…sent His Son...” (1 John 4:10 KJV).  God …sent His Son to be the propitiation (substitute, intervention) for our sins.” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “…He gave his only begotten Son,…” (John 3:16 KJV).

 “…For Christ … died for sins ONCE for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us [home again] to God…” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).

GOD PREFERS UNITY THROUGH THE BOND OF LOVE. . “…the Lord loves His people …” (2 Chronicles 2:11 NASB). In  “… His love and in His mercy He redeemed them…” (Isaiah 63:9 NASB). “… I have loved you with an everlasting love…” (Jeremiah 31:3 NASB). “… Indeed, He loves the people…” (Deuteronomy 33:3 NASB).

“… I will bring them home again,” says the Lord….” (HOSEA 11 NLT). “…[He sent the] …one … who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

.“…Great is his love … and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Praise the LORD” (Psalms 117:2 KJV). “…[GOD] remembered his covenant with them(THROUGH ABRAHAM) …” (Psalms 106:42-48 NLT). To Abraham he said: “…I will BLESS thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a BLESSING: And I will BLESS them that BLESS thee …in thee shall all families of the earth be BLESSED…” (Genesis 12:2-3 KJV).

“…Love… is the perfect BOND of unity...” (Colossians 3:14 NASB). “…He that is JOINED unto the Lord is ONE Spirit…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “…Let no one split apart what God has joined together…” (Mark 10:9 NLT).  

 “…In this world we are LIKE JESUS…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “…There is no greater…love than to lay down one’s life (the part of your life that divides)…” (John 15:13 NLT).

God suffered and died to bring people together. “……There is NEITHER Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female…” (Galatians 3:26-28 KJV). “…God SHOWS NO FAVORITISM.  In every nationHE ACCEPTS thosewho fear him and do what is right—…there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all…” (Acts 10:34-36 NLT). “…God is no RESPECTER OF PERSONS: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. The word which God sent … preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)…” (Acts 10:34-36 KJV).

“…So now you … are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family. Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself…” (Ephesians 2:19-20 NLT).

“… [Everyone] … who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children. [They]…are [ALL]… part of the same body, and enjoy the promise of blessings because THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).  “…Those who belong to Christ Jesus …” (Galatians 5 NLT). “…Because YOU BELONG to him...” (Romans 8:1 NLT). “ … (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belongto him at all.) …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “…He that is joined unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT (BELONG)…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “…We are his;we are “HIS” PEOPLE...” (Psalms 100:3 KJV). “…You belong to Christ…” (1 Corinthians 3:23 NASB). “…you belong to God, my dear children…” (1 John 4:2-7 NIV).

The WRITTEN Word of God was FIRST translated into Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. The King James Version and other translations and versions came later.

However, regardless of the human strengths or weaknesses of those translations and versions, the DIVINE VOICE and DIVINE WORDS of God miraculously continue to SPEAK!!!

The PURITY (HOLINESS), of any translation or version, is revealed when the HOLY SPIRIT’s POWER to DO the ANOINTING WORK of SALVATION and TRANSFORMATION is experienced.

God’s WORD is SPIRIT and it is NOT limited by human translations and versions. It is the ANOINTING of the HOLY SPIRIT that makes ANY translation or version EMPOWERED to SPEAK the SALVATION message that SAVES or the TRANSFORMATION message that TRANSFORMS.

It is WONDERFUL and PRAISEWORTHY that bible scholars make every attempt to sustain the translation or version that has made the MOST impact, but they are NOT to lose SIGHT of WHAT makes “THAT” impact.

God’s WORD is, first and foremost, SPIRIT!

“….THE WORDS that I speak unto you, they are SPIRIT…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…MY WORD …shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV).

[image error]BUY IT HERE: BIBLE STUDY SET WITH TEXT BOOK, TEACHERS GUIDE AND STUDENT'S WORKBOOK

 

BECOMING ONE SPIRIT IS THE BEGINNING OF THE COVENANT RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

 

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BECOMING "ONE SPIRIT" IS THE BEGINNING OF THE COVENANT RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT

“…predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son….” (Romans 8:29).

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The best part of the Christian journey is the “covenant unity” relationship I am able to have with the God, the Holy Spirit.  It took many years to learn I didn’t really have a relationship with God at all, but was, in fact socialized into Christianity.

I knew all the clichés and gestures like the back of my hand. I was a master at imitating the Christian culture. I looked and acted like the real thing, but I wasn’t. I worshipped God with my lips, but much of my heart was far from him.

That reality was a real eye opener.  I didn’t realize I wasn’t the real thing until I met someone who really was Christ-like.

I was doing Christianity like a PRO, but I wasn’t really becomingChrist-like or experiencing transformation that comes from renewing the mind. “…Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). “…be conformed to the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV). “…In this world we are LIKE JESUS…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “… GROW (develop, transform) in the GRACE and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ…” (2 Timothy 3:18 NIV). “… [change, transform]… into the SAME IMAGE …” (2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV).)  “…[the]…image of HIS SON...” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV). “…[into the]…fullness of CHRIST…” (Ephesians 4:14 NIV).

I knew A LOT about God, but I didn’t KNOW God, intimately.  Being raised in the church made me think learning about God and Jesus (his living Word), for years and years, made me an expert Christian. “…He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me...” (Mark 7:6 KJV).  

Actually, I was the typical religious person. I was more moral and ethical than holy or righteous. “…Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity…” (Matthew 7:22-23 KJV).

But when I met someone who was allowing Jesus Christ to authentically transform his life I knew I hadn’t truly committed to the “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, which empowers you to conform to “HIS” image and likeness. “…Ye shall know [God’s transformed people]… by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV). “…The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “…He (she) who ABIDES in Me and I in him (her), he (she) bears much fruit…” (John 15:1-11 NASB). "…My Father is glorified by this, that “YOU” (his people) bear much fruit, and so PROVE to be My (God’s) disciples” (John 15:8 NIV).

However, this man’s witness made me want to have an authentic “covenant unity: relationship with God too. I SAW God’s GLORY (his presence, goodness and working power) shining through him and it transformed my walk with God. "…Let your light shine before men (women, children, etc.) in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven…” (Matthew 5:16 NASB). “… [Jesus’] name is [also] ... called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “… I am (jesus, the word of god is) the light... (revelation of God) ...of the world..." (John 9:5, 8:12 KJV). “... [the word, Jesus]... is a light to reveal God  to the nations...” (Luke 2:32 NLT).

“... A Light of revelation...” (LUKE 2:32 NASB). “…In this world we are LIKE JESUS…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “…The Lightwhich … enlightens every man (woman)…” (John 1:19 NASB). “…. We now have this light shining in our hearts ...This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves…” (2 Corinthians 4:5-7 NLT).

“…THE WORDS THAT I (Jesus) SPEAK unto you, they ARE SPIRIT (god)… and they are LIFE….” (John 6:63 KJV). “…The Lord (Jesus, the LIVING Word) is that Spirit (revelation of God)…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV).  “... the light (revelation of God) makes everything visible. This is why it is said, “Awake, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ (the WORD) will give you light (revelation of god)... (Ephesians 5:19 NLT).

“…Jesus (the LIVING Word) saith unto him, Have I (the WORD of GOD) been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He (she) that hath SEEN ME (through Jesus, the WORD of GOD) HATH SEEN the Father (God, the Holy Spirit); and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father?...” (John 14:9 KJV). “… I (the WORD) and my Father (the HOLY SPIRIT) are ONE…” (John 10:30 KJV).

The “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, makes the Spirit and soul “ONE” unit and becomes the CHANGE AGENT for the lost and spiritually dead soul, forever! “…that they may all be one (UNIT);even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us…” (John 17:21-23 NASB).

Jesus said: “… I am the light(revelation of god) of the world..." (John 9:5, 8:12 KJV). “... He (THE WORD) is a light to reveal God to the nations...” (Luke 2:32 NLT). Jesus, the Word is “... A Light of revelation...” (LUKE 2:32 NASB).

 “…The Lightwhich … enlightens (or which gives revelation knowledge of god, the holy spirit to) every ...[REDEEMED]...man (woman)…” (John 1:19 NASB). “.. A Light of revelation...” (LUKE 2:32 NASB).“...And this is life eternal, that they might know [have intimate, revelation knowledge of] thee the only true God (the Holy Spirit), and Jesus Christ (God’s LIVING Word), whom thou hast sent...” (John 17:3 KJV).

“…In this world we are LIKE JESUS…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).  

After “SEEING” this witness, I went home and cried. This awakening may not be true of everybody, but it was true about me. I had to admit, to myself, not only didn’t I “know” God, but I didn’t really “love” him either. “…This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me...” (Mark 7:6 KJV).  

I appeared Christlike and I gave my faith plenty of lip-service, but I was FAR from having a truly, intimate, “covenant unity” relationship with God. I was your typical hypocrite and a pretty good one too. I talked and acted as if I both knew God and loved him, but I didn’t, really. “...Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of ... all uncleanness… ” (Matthew 23:27 KJV).

I hate phony, yet I was a phony Christian CLAIMING to know God. “…If someone claims, “I know God,” but doesn’t obey God’s commandments, that person IS A LIAR and is not living in the truth…” (1 John 2:4 NLT).  “…If we “SAY” that we have fellowship with him, and WALK IN DARKNESS (without the show of spiritual fruit, revelation knowledge, or righteous deeds), WE LIE, and DO NOT THE TRUTH…” (1 John 1:6 KJV).  “ … the deeds of the flesh are evident…” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB).

I knew all along something was missing in my Christian journey. I had information about God and I had an appropriate amount of understanding, but very, very little “covenant unity” relationship application or experience. “...I [had] ...neither learned wisdom, nor have the knowledge of the holy...  [I had not truly learned of the ONE who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? who hath gathered the wind in his fists? who hath bound the waters in a garment? who hath established all the ends of the earth? what is his name, and what is his son's name, if thou canst tell?Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar...” (Proverbs 30:3-6 KJV).

God’s people go from church to church with plenty Christian education and religious experience, but very little “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirt;the REAL change agent. “...This is what the Lord says: “Don’t let the wise boast in their wisdom, or the powerful boast in their power, or the rich boast in their riches. But those who wish to boast should boast in this alone: that they truly know me (has revelation knowledge of God) and understand that I am the Lord (the word) who demonstrates unfailing love and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth, and that I delight in these things. I, the Lord (god’s word), have spoken!...” (Jeremiah 9:23-24 NLT).  “….apart from Me (the WORD), you (God’s people) can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

Wisdom is the application of knowledge (experience) and understanding (clear revelation of truth). “...Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding...” (Proverbs 4:7 KJV). “...Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment....” (Proverbs 4:7 NLT).

And the bible says Wisdom is the MAIN thing when it comes to KNOWING or having a REVELATION knowledge of God.  “…If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. …” (James 1:4-7 KJV). “...O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? Or who hath been his counsellor?...” (Romans 11:33-34 KJV). “...Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom are kept safe…” (Proverbs 28:26 NIV).

I knew, however, in many areas of my Christian walk I was pretending to be in a “covenant unity” relationship with God, when in fact I was not.

I knew I wasn’t authentically Christ-like, but I could imitate Christlikeness so well I ignored or justified any shortcomings. God knew too and when I went to him in prayer to confess my pretense I could have sworn God sighed.

After so many years of doing Christianity where do I start in order to have a genuine “covenant unity” relationship with God? First, I needed to show respect to God, the indwelling Holy Spirit and the covenant relationship I shared with HIM on a daily basis. “...The fear of the LORD isthe beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding...” (Proverbs 9:10 KJV).

Second, having a genuine RESPECT for God, the indwelling Holy Spirit was the beginning of wisdom or for having an authentic transformation experience. “...The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding...” (Proverbs 9:10 KJV).

Finally, an authentic transformation experience with God, empowered by his indwelling Holy Spirit, would also enable me to have a clearer revelation knowledge of HIS divine character. “...The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy, [which becomes]... understanding...” (Proverbs 9:10 KJV).

“...This is what the Lord (the word)says: “....those who wish to boast should boast in this alone: that they truly know me (the Word of God) and understand (have a clear revelation knowledge) I am the Lord (the word) who demonstrates unfailing love and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth, and that I delight in these things. I, the Lord (god’s word), have spoken!” (Jeremiah 9:23-24 NLT).

Where do God’s people BEGIN to truly experience, God, the Holy Spirit, so HE will transform their lives and enable them to become CONFORMED to his SON (HIS LIVING WORD). “...The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy isunderstanding...” (Proverbs 9:10 KJV). “…be conformedto the image of his Son (the WORD)…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV). “ … It is ...God who does the work IN and THROUGH ... [HIS people] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “… The [indwelling] HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of [his people] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…the ...Father that dwelleth in [THEM], he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “...Herein is my Father (God, the Holy Spirit) glorified (this is how his presence, goodness, and working power WITNESSED), that [his people] bear much fruit ... be [his] disciples...” (John 15:1-10 KJV). “… [Thus, his people will]… bear much fruit, and …PROVE to be [God’s]… disciples…” (John 15:8 NIV).

“…. [THEY] PROVE [THEM] SELVES by [their] purity, [their] understanding, [their] patience, [their] kindness, [AND]...by the Holy Spirit WITHIN [them]…” (2 Corinthians 6:6 NLT). This is why I wrote THE COVENANT RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT to help God’s people have a genuine “covenant unity” relationship with God too and NOT spend years experiencing Christianity as just another religious system.

I will explain “covenant unity” later, but for now it simply means the reconciliation of the HOLY SPIRIT and the soul.” “…He (she) that is joined unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT (are “in” a COVENANT UNITY relationship with God, the Holy Spirit)…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “… [They [ are his; [They] are “HIS” PEOPLE...” (Psalms 100:3 KJV). “… [they]... belong to God, [and are his]... dear children…” (1 John 4:2-7 NIV).

Anyway, an authentic “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, is not limited to spiritual leaders, clergy, televangelists, and other well-known Christians.“… it is God who works in [each of HIS people]…  in order to fulfill his good purpose…” (Philippians 2:13 NIV).   “… [God, the Holy Spirit] … equip[s] (or provides)… [each of his people]... with everything good for doing his will …” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…[God, the Holy Spirit] …work[s] (within each of his people) … what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ …” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).

Thus, ordinary people can and will, become witnesses of his GLORY (his presence, goodness, and working power) upon earth just like Jesus did. “…God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for GOD WAS WITH HIM. And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV). “… [The] Good News about Christ (GOD’s WORD)… It is the power of God at work, saving  everyone who believes (WHO trusts in and DEPENDS UPON HIS WORD)…” (Romans 1:16 NLT).

His GLORY revealed, “in” and “through” HIS people, will be the WITNESS of the personal, intimate, “covenant unity” relationship they share with God.“.... [God’s people]... are witnesses of all things which he (Jesus, God’s Word) did...[and is still doing “through” his people] …” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV). “…Verily, verily, I say unto you, He (she) that believeth on me (Jesus, God’s Word), the works that I do (the LIVING Word does) shall he (she) do also; and GREATER WORKS (not different works, but greater) than these shall he (she) do; because I go unto my Father…” (John 14:1 KJV). “…God anointed (miraculously empowered) Jesus of Nazareth (HOW?) with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER (what did jesus do?)...  [he]...went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil …(HOW?) GOD WAS WITH HIM…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

“…The works that [Jesus, the LIVING Word did], shall [HIS people]... do also; and GREATER WORKS (not different works, but greater) than [these]...shall [they]... do…” (John 14:1 KJV).

The miraculous life of the Christian believer is not limited to just famous Christian leaders, but God’s promises are yes and amen to the whole body of Christ (every single child who belongs to HIM). “… AS MANY as received him, to them GAVE HE POWER TO BECOME THE “SONS”  (daughters) OF GOD (children of God)…” (John 1:12 KJV).  “... [THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).

“… [HIS children,]… enjoy the promise of blessings (provisions)becauseTHEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).   “…Your … [provision] … be upon “Your people!” Selah…” (Psalm 3:8 NASB). “…The LORD “will” … [PROVIDE ] … his people with peace…” (Psalm 29:11 KJV).

“…[they]... are HIS PEOPLE...” (Psalms 100:3 KJV). WHO? “…Those who BELONG TO Christ Jesus …” (Galatians 5 NLT). “…Because [they].. BELONG to him … (And remember that those who do not havethe Spirit of Christ living in them DO NOT BELONG TO HIM at all.)” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “…  [Everyone who belongs, to him through Jesus, however, and] … who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children. [They]…are [ALL]… part of the same body, and enjoy the promise of … [provisions] … because THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).  

Therefore, every single brother and sister in Christ is on the same leveling ground, sharing his promises EQUALLY. “…  [Everyone who belongs, to him through Jesus, however, and] … who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children… because THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).  

God is not like man and is not partial to anyone, but treats every child fair, loving, and just. Every believer can have a personal testimony about their “covenant unity” relationship with God. “……There is NEITHER Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female…” (Galatians 3:26-28 KJV). “…God SHOWS NO FAVORITISM.  In every nationHE ACCEPTS thosewho fear him and do what is right—…there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all…” (Acts 10:34-36 NLT). “…God is no RESPECTER OF PERSONS: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. The word which God sent … preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)…” (Acts 10:34-36 KJV).

 “…  [Everyone who belongs, to him through Jesus, however, and] … who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children… because THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).  

 I pray in the Name of Jesus that this book will lay a foundation for an authentic “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit that will CHANGE your life forever.  “…So now you … are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family. Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself…” (Ephesians 2:19-20 NLT).

I declare and decree that redeemed souls everywhere who read this book will renew, strengthen, establish, revive, develop, grow, expand, or go deeper into the “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, through Christ in JESUS NAME! AMEN!  “… [God sent the ] …one … who can [REconcile] God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus (WHO comes to DWELL WITHIN)…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

“... Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation(substitute, intervention) for our sins.” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “…Christ (God’s PLAN of SALVATION) ... hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us [back] to God …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV). “...we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son...” (Romans 5:10 KJV).

“…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son “INTO” [the] HEARTS [of his people]…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…God has given [his people] his Spirit as PROOF that [they]… live (are alive) in him and he [dwells]…in [them]…” (1 John 4:13 NLT).  “…Jesus Christ is in [God’s people]…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV).

May God capture every human being reading this book and redirect their hearts, through Jesus, the LIVING Word, toward a deeper, loving “covenant unity” relationship with HIM. AMEN. “... the Lord (Jesus, the LIVING Word) direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ...” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 KJV). “...the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the steadfastness of Christ...” (2 Thessalonian 3:5 NASB). “...May the Lord lead your hearts into a full understanding and expression of the love of God and the patient endurance that comes from Christ...” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 NLT)  “...May the Master take you by the hand and lead you along the path of God’s loveand Christ’s endurance...” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 MSG).

God is not far away, but is present, reachable, interactive, and lovingly personable with each of his people. God will lead them into the LOVING “covenant unity” relationship with him step by step. “…“God with us…” (Matthew 1:23 NASB). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…Love … the perfect BOND of UNITY...” (Colossians 3:14 NASB). “…He that is joined unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT…[with God, the Father through Jesus Christ, our Lord] …”  (1 Corinthian 6:17 KJV). “... acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “…The steps of a good man(woman) are ordered by the Lord: …” (Psalms 37:23 KJV). “I will instruct you and guide you in the way you should go; I will fix My eyes upon You…” (Psalm 32:8).

“…I have shown you how you should find the way in which you should walk…” (Isaiah 48:17). “…So I say, let the [indwelling] Holy Spirit guide your lives. … …” (Galatians 5 NLT).

What does God want? Why did he go through SO MUCH trouble and heartache just to reconcile with HIS people?  It is summoned up in the following scripture: “... Herein is love...God ...loved [his people] and sent His Son to be the propitiation for [their]... sins...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “…the just for the unjust, that he might bring ...[his people back] to God …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV). “..[They]... were reconciled to God by the death of his Son...” (Romans 5:10 KJV).

 “...Look! [God stands]... at the door [of their hearts] and knock. If you (HIS people) hear [his] voice and open the door, [God]... will come in, and [they] will share a meal together as friends...” (Revelations 3:20 NLT). “...I will come in to him (her), and will sup with him (her), and he (she) with me...” (Revelation 3:20 KJV). “...I’ll come right in and sit down to supper with you(each of HIS people)...” (Revelation 3:20 MSG). “...I will come in to him (her) and will dine with him (her), and he(she) with Me...” (Revelation 3:20 NASB).

God loves his people and desired to be reconciled to them so he could enjoy a close intimate relationship that included fellowship, sharing meals, and intimate conversation. “...I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends...” (Revelations 3:20 NLT).

He also wanted them to live a FULL and ABUNDANT spiritual life. “…I (the Word) am come that THEY MIGHThave (spiritual) LIFE, and that THEY MIGHT have [SPIRITUAL LIFE] ... more abundantly…” (John 10:10 KJV).

I will share with you how it started with me. It has been the opportunity of a lifetime from that time on and it is continually wonderful. “… everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus [our]… Lord...” (Philippians 3:8 NLT). “…For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ” (Philippians 3:8 NLT). “...Whom have I in heaven but You(God, the Holy Spirit)? And besides You, I desire nothingon earth...” (Psalm 73:25 NASB)

 I am not trying to start a pattern or give you a box of tools or a set of steps to a closer, loving, intimate “covenant unity” relationship with God. “... acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths...”(Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).  

Remember I was horrible at having a “covenant unity” relationship with God. I only hope to point you to an authentic relationship with God for yourself that you may truly live an ABUNDANT spiritual life and TRULY become like Jesus, in this world. “…In this world we are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “…He helps [his people]…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT)..  “… The Holy Spirit helps [his people in their] ...weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT).

I am finite just like you, but God is infinite. “...He (God, the Holy Spirit) careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV).“…[God, the Holy Spirit]...will supply all your NEED…” (John 12:32 KJV). ).  “…The LORD (the LIVING Word) “WILL” accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [HIS people]…” (John 14:31 NASB).

God is not limited by Christian theories or doctrines. Man’s theories, writings, and doctrines are stepping stones to helpyou get started on a particular journey, but God is the ONLY one who can GIVE revelation knowledge. “... he (Jesus, the LIVING Word) shall direct thy paths...”(Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).  “... the Lord (Jesus, the LIVING Word) direct your hearts into the love of God...” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 KJV). 

God made every one of his children unique and every “covenant unity” relationship is special even though they share and serve the same Father of all creation. “…God SHOWS NO FAVORITISM.  In every nationHE ACCEPTS thosewho fear him and do what is right…” (Acts 10:34-36 NLT). “…God is no RESPECTER OF PERSONS: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him… (Acts 10:34-36 KJV).

God uses revelation knowledge, through Jesus, the LIVING Word, to further enlighten his people when they personally spend time with him. Jesus had another name. “… His name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “.. A Light of revelation...” (LUKE 2:32 NASB). “... [Jesus, the Word, the LIGHT of Revelation] ... opened their minds to understand the Scriptures...” (Luke 24:45 NLT).

Therefore, God will help HIS people, through Jesus, the LIVING Word, to START building their OWN personal “covenant unity” relationship with Him.“... he (Jesus, the LIVING Word) shall direct thy paths...”(Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).  “... the Lord (Jesus, the LIVING Word) direct your hearts into the love of God...” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 KJV). “…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT).

“…The Lord who made you and helps yousays: Do not be afraid …my servant …my chosen one…” (Isaiah 44:2 NLT). “… The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “…You are my helper and my savior…” (Psalms 40:17 NLT).

Jesus, the indwelling LIVING Word, sown within the hearts of the redeemed soul, EMPOWERS THEM with an “affinity” toward to the “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit. “…God (the Holy Spirit)... is love…” (1 John 4:8 KJV). “…The …HOLY SPIRIT (God, the Father) …is the SOURCE of [your AFFINITY toward HIM] …it is …God who does the work IN and THROUGH [HIS people]. The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of ...[them] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

God will also help his people to further grow in his grace and revelation knowledge. “..Therefore come boldly unto the throne of GRACE, [God’s people, that]… [you] may obtain mercy, and find GRACE to help in time of need…”(Hebrews 4:16 KJV). God, the Holy Spirit, will “…strengthened [you]… with might by his Spirit in the inner man…” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV). “… [He will strengthen HIS people]…according to the POWER that worketh IN [THEM]…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV). “… God  … work[s] … in … [his people] … what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…the Father... [that DWELLS within THEM]… he doeth the works…”(John 14:10 KJV).

Now I will answer this question: “How did the “covenant unity” relationship finally start with me?”

Like I said, I knew about God’s love for me basically as a collection of facts, but I really did not know, his love, experientially, for me.

 In other words, I had the knowledge of God’s love, understood it, but didn’t have much “covenant unity” relationship experience.

Experience means to take what you know and understand and correctly apply it. Or in simple terms putting what you know and understand into action.

That night I saw the true Christlike WITNESS, I went home and cried. I wanted that kind of intimate relationship with God. The Holy Spirit led me to read the book of Hosea. God used Hosea to give me revelation knowledge, through his LIVING Word, of his personal love for me and his people.

I was enlightened, inspired, empowered, and moved by HIS revelation as the indwelling Holy Spirit led me further into the truth of his great love for me and each of his people. .“... he (Jesus, the LIVING Word) shall direct thy paths...” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).  “... the Lord (Jesus, the LIVING Word) direct your hearts into the love of God...” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 KJV). “…The steps of a good man(woman) are ordered by the Lord: …” (Psalms 37:23 KJV). “I will instruct you and guide you in the way you should go; I will fix My eyes upon You…” (Psalm 32:8).

I became spiritually, not intellectually aware of his love for me. That’s where the authentic relationship with God started. “…Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that HE LOVED US...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “...We love, because HE FIRST LOVED US…” (1 John 4:19 ASV). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…Love … the perfect BOND of UNITY...” (Colossians 3:14 NASB).

I started genuinely loving God because He revealed his love for me, FIRST. Just like the scripture says, “…we love because he first loved us…” (1 John 4:19).

This is not a pattern, but an example of how my “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit began. God may use the same method of revelation with you or he may start his relationship with you in a whole other way. However, God’s love will always be the starting point for the “covenant unity” relationship. “…because he first loved us…” (1 John 4:19).

From that moment God “revealed” his  HOLY love for me, my life was wonderfully revolutionized through the “covenant unity” relationship.

Without having an authentic “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit,  the Christian faith becomes just another religious system.

Without an authentic “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, the redeemed soul is missing out on the opportunity to KNOW HIM personally.

Without an authentic “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, the redeemed soul will never know what it’s like to “become” truly Christ-like.

Without an authentic “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, the redeemed soul’s won’t experience mind renewal.  Thus, they will not have an impact on society or those around them.

If God’s people don’t transform into the imageand likeness of Jesus, they  won’t be able to become an encouragement for others to transform either.

During my dissertation research, statistics revealed that believers who are in a committed relationship with God were much more Christ-like than those who were not.

In addition, out of hundreds of Christians surveyed by one pastor only 1/3 of Christians were in a committed relationship with God through Christ, 1/3 were luke-warm, and another 1/3 admitted to believing, but not following the bible teachings at all.

It is my prayer that more believers will seek to have a more authentic “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, through Christ.

It is important for an authentic Christianity to continue to impact society, the adherents to be truly transformed, and lost souls be saved.

People “STILL” become like the company they keep. The “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, is the CHANGE AGENT that will turn the lost and spiritually dead soul, into a “living soul” again.

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REAL LOVE WILL TRANSFORM YOU FOR THE BETTER!

 

            

TRANSFORMING LOVE:

“..Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

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You are chosen, drawn, filled with a “measure of faith or spirit of faith”, immutably loved and changed into a NEW CREATION in Christ. God’s people are already CONFORMED into the IMAGE of Christ, but TRANSFORMATION depends upon them RENEWING their MINDS. “..Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

“…be conformedto the image of His Son (NEW CREATION)…” (Romans 8:29 KJV). 

“… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind (PUTTING NEW INFORMATION IN THE HEART) ….”(Romans 12:2 KJV).

“…from within, out of the heart of man (WOMAN), proceed (COMES) evil thoughts...” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV).

 “…[God’s people’s minds]... are being [transformed]... every day [by God’s WORD]...”(2 Corinthians 4:16-17 NLT). “…In this world [God’s people]... are LIKE JESUS (his WORD)…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).

The “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, also depends upon God’s people knowing who they are right now “in” Christ.  

They are God’s child, citizens of heaven, ambassadors of Christ and NEW CREATIONS IN Christ. “…God sent forth his Son…to redeem [his people]….that [they]...might receive the adoption of sons (daughters)…” (Galatians 4:4-5 KJV). “...[god’s people’s are]... citizenship is in heaven...” (Philippians 3:20 NIV). “...[God’s people]... are therefore Christ’s ambassadors....” (2 Corinthians 5:20 NIV). “..Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

These biblical truths contribute to the reality of God’s people’s new identity. It is IMPORTANT for God’s people to SEE themselves through their NEW IDENTITY, which will EMPOWER to BECOME like Jesus. “…In this world [New Creations]... are [to become]... like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “...[They are to become] … imitators of [Jesus]…”(Hebrews 12:14; Ephesians 5:1 ASV). “… growing in every way more and more like Christ…” (Ephesians 4:14-16 NLT).

“... In him [God’s people]... live (have spiritual life, walk by faith, etc.,), and move (behave like new creations, produce spiritual fruit, display God’s glory, etc.,), and have [their]... being (new identity) ...For [they]...are ... his offspring (children)...” (Acts 17:28 KJV).

Letting their new identity DEFINE them requires God’s people to develop God-esteem through God’s powerfulWORD. “…I (Jesus, God’s WORD) am come that THEY MIGHT have [spiritual]... life, and that THEY MIGHT have it more abundantly…” (John 10:10 KJV). “…NOW UNTO HIM THAT IS “ABLE” to do exceeding abundantly above all that [his people] ask or think, according to the POWER [of his indwelling Holy Spirit]... that worketh in [them]…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV).

“…As many as are the promises of God, in Him they are yes …also … Amen …” (2 Corinthians 1:20 NASB).

 “…This [was ALL]… God’s plan: [Everyone]… who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children. [They]…are [ALL]… part of the same body, and enjoy the promise of blessings because they belong to Christ Jesus...” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).

God-esteem is built through the WORD of God. It begins with KNOWING and exercising FAITH in the biblical truth that you have become a NEW CREATION “in Christ.” The bible says, those who have accepted Christ within their hearts are “….a new creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). God said: “…I will put a new spirit in you . …” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT). “ …My people …I will PUT my SPIRIT in you and you will LIVE ...’” (Ezekiel 37 NIV).  “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).  “…The Spirit of God dwell[s]…in [his people]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). 

“...[God’s people are]... reconciled to God by the death of his Son...” (Romans 5:10 KJV).

“…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son “INTO” [THEI]R HEARTS…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…God has given [his people] his Spirit as PROOF that [they]… live (are spiritually alive) in him and he [dwells]…in [them]…” (1 John 4:13 NLT).  “…Jesus Christ is in [his people]…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV).

God-esteem and the new creature work together to help “his” people become “...LIVING SOULS...” again.“...and man (woman) became a living soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV).

Esteem are the thoughts that inform a person, on the way to view themselves and define their worth. Defining WORTH includes one’s perspective on their OWN value, level of self-respect, and what they, personally, believe they do or don’t deserve.  Some, not all, people have some level of esteem, called self-esteem.

“... In him [God’s people]... live (have spiritual life, walk by faith, etc.,), and move (behave like new creations, produce spiritual fruit, display God’s glory, etc.,), and have [their]... being (new identity) ...For [they]...are ... his offspring (children)...” (Acts 17:28 KJV).

Self-esteem reveals an individual’s personal evaluation of their own self-worth. Self-esteem also reveals how a person judges themselves based on their own opinion of self. “…[As]...a new creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

Society encourages individuals towards a healthy self-esteem as a way for them to navigate and be successful in the many facets of life 

However, self-esteem is wishy-washy and undependable. Self-esteem is not an ongoing and steady trait that a person can put total confidence in. Therefore, negative, personal experiences can easily shatter and tear down self-esteem mentally and emotionally. “….Don't put your confidence in … people [OR SELF]… there is NO HELP for you there….” (Psalms 146: 3 NLT).

“…Human effort accomplishes nothing….” (John 6:63 NLT). “…the flesh profiteth nothing…” (John 6:63 KJV). "…That which is born of the flesh is flesh…” (John 3:6 KJV).

Self-esteem can have you on a mountaintop one day and in the valley the next. Therefore, healthy self-esteem can be short-lived, become depleted, prove to be unreliable, and sometimey. “….Don't put your confidence in … people [OR self-esteem]… there is NO HELP for you there….” (Psalms 146: 3 NLT).

The undependability of self-esteem also destroys a person’s trust in the evaluation of themselves. “….Don't put your confidence in … people [OR self-esteem]… there is NO HELP for you there….” (Psalms 146: 3 NLT).

Self-esteem can turn into a monster that destroys one’s belief about self-worth in several other areas of an individual’s life. “….Don't put your confidence in … people [OR self-esteem]… there is NO HELP for you there….” (Psalms 146: 3 NLT).

Negative, personal experiences of all variations are usually the culprit for destroying one’s self-esteem. “...You judge by human standards...” (John 8:15 NIV). “...we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh—though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more:circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee;as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless. But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ...” (Philippians 3:3-7 NIV). “...we regard no one from a worldly point of view...” (2 Corinthians 5:16 NIV).

“…all things are become new...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

Self-esteem, before becoming a NEW CREATION, is developed from the experiences a person has as they grow into an adult. “….old things are passed away...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

When people are growing into adults they are being shaped, molded, or influenced by others, in their intimate environments, to determine self-esteem.

Self-esteem informs the mind and comes from the heart. Out of the information stored in the heart about one’s self, over the years, comes evil thoughts about an individual’s worth. “...For from within, out of the heart of man (woman), proceed evil thoughts… wickedness...  All these evil things come from within, and defile a person…” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV).  

The information, stored in the heart, is processed and transformed into a mental or visual opinion about self-worth. This opinion is one’s “perception of self.” The “perception of self”, can come forth as “no” esteem, “low” esteem, “average” esteem, or “high” esteem. “... In him [God’s people]... have [their]... being (new identity, perception of their new created-in-Christ self) ...” (Acts 17:28 KJV).

Psychology have a theory, developed by cognitive psychologists in the 50s, called “information processing” and claims the mind resembles and functions similar to a computer.

For instance, information goes into the computer, the internal software processes it, and an output results; just like information goes into the heart, the mental software system processes it, and an output (opinion) also results.

The information, stored within your heart, goes into your mental software system - while interacting with people or your environment – and one of the outputs is the perception of self.

If you were criticized as a child and told, “You are bad” (that’s information that was put into the heart) then, as a result (output), you developed an opinion of yourself that you were bad . The information “you are bad” was PUT into your heart and “out of the heart” proceeds the critical thought “YOU ARE BAD) that was stored there during personal growth and development.

The storing of the critical thought “YOU ARE BAD” is how your heart retains information PUT there over the course of personal development.  

However, once the information proceeds out of the heart it can become “evil or negative thoughts that impact a person opinion of themselves. The “evil or negative thoughts” may cause a person to evaluate thei WHOLE self as ‘bad” and not just a particular behavior.  The bible informs God’s people that “….as he (she) thinketh in his (her) heart, so is he (she)…..” (Proverbs 23:7 KJV).

The “perception of self,” stored in the heart, affects the THOUGHTS when interacting with LIFE, PEOPLE, and FAMILIAR ENVIRONMENTS. These interactions will either weaken or become fixed “thoughts” about one’s SELF.

These repeated interactions, if negative and critical, contribute to the information stored in the heart and will embolden “evil or negative thoughts” that help establish a fixed perception of one’s self.

These emboldened “evil or negative thoughts,” that come out of the heart, help establish a fixed perception of one’s self, which are - criticism, lack of affirmation, no emotional support, no adequate attention or affection, no grace for mistakes, being ignored, various abuses, lack of respect or honor, rejection, and a host of other things that destroy self-esteem – and these regularly contribute to the storing of negative information.

Regularly hearing that “you are bad” eventually becomes a fixed “perception of self,” within the heart, where the “evil or negative thoughts” of one’s WORTH proceeds from.

The stored information, within the heart, that “you are bad” proceeds out into the thoughts to effect one’s behavior too.

The “you are bad” message, stored within the heart, becomes a perception of selfand over time, if the information, within the heart, doesn’t change it will develop into a fixed perception of self.

LIFE, PEOPLE, childhood caregivers, or one’s environments ARE major influencers in the development of a “fixed” perception of self that becomes self-esteem (high, low, or none).

The fixed “perception of self,” from the information stored within the heart, and if NOT changed, follows a person from childhood into adulthood.

This is a very basic explanation of how “perception of self” or self-esteem develops.

The bottom line is that “perception of self” or self-esteem is impacted in one way or another by information stored within one’s heart.

A negative “perception of self” or self-esteem is usually revealed through dysfunctional encounters in one’s interactions or personal relationships with others; particularly when it comes to giving and receiving love.

 For instance, if the message “you are bad” is fixed, you may not be able to receive or give love in a healthy manner, especially if YOU don’t think or believe YOU ARE WORTHY of love.

This is the identity problem many of God’s people BRING into the “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit.”  

God’s people are NEW CREATIONS, but if they don’t allow God’s WORD to RENEW negative messages, stored in the heart, like “you are bad” it will impact the “covenant unity” relationship with God.

 The old information, stored in the heart, says “YOU ARE BAD” and therefore “YOU ARE NOT WORTHY OF LOVE. The new information, stored in the heart, says “YOU ARE A NEW CREATION” and “GOD LOVES YOU, UNCONDITIONALLY.”

 When God’s people RENEW the information stored with their hearts, that information proceedss into their thoughts and transforms their “perception of self in the new created-in-Christ perception.”  It also strengthens the “covenant unity” relationship with one’s soul and God’s Holy Spirit.

 Negative perceptions of the old self come from OLD information, stored in the heart, but God has given you NEW INFORMATION by planting, through his WORD, JESUS, into your heart. Jesus had another name. “… His name is called The Word of God (the “good” seed)…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB).

“…The sower (God, the Holy Spirit) SOWETH THE WORD …The seed (Jesus) is the WORD OF GOD ... THE WORD …was sown in THEIR HEARTS (the hearts of God’s people)…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV).

 “ …[God’s people]... have this treasure  (this seed filled with NEW information about them) “in” earthen vessels…” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV). 

God purposely planted NEW INFORMATION into the hearts of his people, so “spiritual thoughts” would proceed out and transform their perception of self into the new created-in-Christ perception.  “…The seed that fell on good soil ...  [will]... produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted... ” (Matthew 13: 18-23 NLT). “…The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in [the] lives [of his people]: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness…” (Galatians 5:22 NLT).“… Jesus Christ (new information) is in [God’s people]…” (2 Corinthians KJV).

NEW CREATIONS can say: “…by the grace of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV). “… [New creations]… are HIS (God’s) workmanship (through the powerful, working indwelling Holy Spirit), created in Christ Jesus (God’s Word and new information planted within the hearts of his people) …” (Ephesians 2:10 KJV).

“...The seed (Jesus) is the WORD OF GOD ... THE WORD (new information) …was sown in THEIR HEARTS …” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV).

“…The sinful nature (affected the old information in the heart and it) wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the [Holy] Spirit wants. And the [Holy] Spirit (affects the new information in the heart and it) gives [God’s people]... desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires.These TWO FORCES (old information & new information) are constantly fighting each other, so [God’s people] are not FREE  to carry out [their] good intentions. ……” (Galatians 5 NLT).

The old information, stored in the heart, must become totally RENEWED. “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind (renewing the old information, stored in the heart, will empower “spiritual thoughts” to proceed forth that transforms one’s perception of self a new created-in-Christ perception as a NEW CREATION)….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). “...[God’s people] are clean through the word  (new information) which I (God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus) have spoken unto [them]...” (John 15:1-10 KJV). “... [God’s people can stay] .... holy and clean, washed by the cleansing[power]...of God’s Word  (new information)...” (Ephesians 5:26 KJV).

“… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind [by storing new information within the heart)...”(Romans 12:2 KJV).

“…The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in [God’s people]. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give [spiritual] life to [their] mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within [them[. …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

“…Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do (through old information) what your sinful nature urges you to do.For if you live by [that old “lifeless’ information], you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit (Jesus, the WORD, God’s new information, the powerful, indwelling Holy Spirit) you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live.For all who are led by the Spirit of God (the WORD, new information) are children of God…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

“…Who will free [god’s people]...from this lifethat is dominated by (the old information tainted by) SIN? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

“… The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (the LIVING Word, new information)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). Jesus had another name. “… His name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “…THE WORDS ... they ARE SPIRIT,…”(John 6:63 KJV).

“...[God’s people]... are clean through the word which [God, the Holy Spirit]... have spoken unto [them through Jesus]...” (John 15:1-10 KJV). “...[God’s people can stay] .... holy and clean, washed by the cleansing [power]...of God’s Word (new information ...” (Ephesians 5:26 KJV).

“… Jesus (the WORD of GOD, new information) …came and SPAKE, unto them saying, “All POWER is given unto me (the word) IN heaven and earth…” (Matthew 28:18 KJV). “…Let the WORD (this new information) of Christ dwell in you richly…” (Colossians 3:16 KJV).  “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind (through the WORD and new information)….” (Romans 12:2 KJV).

“… The Spirit of truth (Jesus, God’s Word and new information) …will guide[God’s people]... into all the truth. …” (John 16:13 NIV). “…Thy word (new information) is truth” (JOHN 17:17 KJV).

“...Jesus saith…I am THE... TRUTH…” (John 14:6 KJV). “…The TRUTH (God’s new information) shall MAKE YOU FREE…” (JOHN 8:32 KJV).

 “…If the Son (jesus, the truth) therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed (without a doubt!!)…” (John 8:36 KJV).

The only way for God’s people to enjoy all the benefits, blessings, and favors of the “covenant unity” relationship with God is for them to KNOW they are a “…new creature in Christ Jesus...”(1 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

The old information, stored in the heart, was received from the world, but the new information, stored (planted) in the heart, was received from God, the Holy Spirit. “... Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers...” (1 Peter 1:18 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, has completely changed the identity of each of his people. The old information, stored in the heart, has NO IMPACT upon who God’s people are, RIGHT NOW, in Jesus Christ. “...Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, ALL THINGS are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “…I WILL GIVE you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. …” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT). “…It is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure...” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). 

God’s people can boldly say: “I AM A NEW CREATION!” “…By the GRACE of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV). “… [Therefore, God’s people]… are changed into the same image [of Christ] from glory to glory …” (2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV).

God’s people were SPIRITUALLY DEAD before reconciling with God, the Holy Spirit. “…the body without (apart from) the spirit is dead…” (James 2:26 KJV). “...[God’s people]... were reconciled to God by the death of his Son...” (Romans 5:10 KJV).

Jesus Christ RECONCILES lost and spiritually dead souls to God, the Holy Spirit. “…[He sent the] …one … who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

Jesus Christ made mankind WHOLE again. “…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). NLT). “…The Spirit of God dwell[s]… in [God’s people]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).  “…God ...makes everything holy and whole [by putting or mixing]...together [God’s Holy]...spirit, [your]...soul, and body…” (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 MSG). “…Jesus Christ (the one who reconciles) is in [God’s people]…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV).

“...[God’s people] have the Spirit of God living in [them]…” (Romans 8:6-9 NLT). “...and man (woman) [have become].... a living soul (again)…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

“... In him [God’s people] live and move, and have [their]... being...For [they] are ... his offspring...” (Acts 17:28 KJV). “…If any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a NEW CREATURE …” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “… [New creations]… are HIS workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works …” (Ephesians 2:10 KJV). “…it is God (the Holy Spirit) which worketh in [new creations]…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).

Every single person, upon earth, is lost and spiritually dead until Jesus reconciles them to God, the Holy Spirit. “…the wages of sin is [spiritual]...death…” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “…For all have sinned (all have been born with a sinful nature)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “…all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are born WITHOUT the indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV).

"…That which is born of the flesh is flesh…” (John 3:6 KJV). “….I was born a sinner (I was born without the indwelling Holy Spirit)—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).

Without God’s indwelling Holy Spirit a person is a lost and spiritually dead soul.  Anyone separated from God is “…deadin trespasses and sin” (Ephesians 2:1 KJV).

Sinners are“…separated from the LIFE of God…” (Ephesians 4:18 NIV). “…It is the SPIRIT who gives LIFE…” (John 6:63 NASB). Before sinners are SAVED “…[THEY are] ... DEAD in [their]... transgressions and sins (within the sinful nature)…” (Ephesians 2:1 NIV).

“…[God’s people]... were dead in [their] sins [too]  and ... [NOW]…God made [them]... ALIVE with Christ. He forgave [them]… all [their]… sins…” (Colossians 2:13 NIV).God “….made [the lost and spiritual dead soul]… ALIVE with Christ …when [they]… were DEAD in transgressions…” (Ephesians 2:5 NIV).

Like the prodigal son, “… [God’s people were spiritually]…. DEAD and [have been made]… ALIVE AGAIN; [they were]… lost and [have been]… found…” (Luke 15:24 NIV).

Anyone made “ALIVE AGAIN” was once DEAD. The soul was a spiritually DEAD soul. “….God formed man of the dust of the ground (body), and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (Spirit); and man became a living soul(soul)…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

“….[All of God’s people]... USED TO LIVE in sin [too], just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil—the commander of the powers in the unseen world.He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God. All of [them] used to live that way, following the passionate desires and inclinations of [their] sinful nature. ….just like everyone else…” (Ephesian 2:2-3 NLT).

Lost and spiritually DEAD souls follow after the sinful nature. “…The sin of my SOUL…” (Micah 6:7 KJV).

The lost and spiritually DEAD soul is heavily affected by carnality. “….When you follow the desires (influences) of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life WILL NOT inherit the Kingdom of God. …” (Galatians 5:22-23 NLT).

God, through Jesus, restores the LOST and spiritual DEAD soul and FREES them from the bondage of SIN, “…He restoreth my SOUL…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “…The law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the SOUL…” (Psalm 19 NASB).

“IN” Christ the lost and spiritually DEAD soul is restored and made “SPIRITUALLY ALIVE AGAIN.” (Luke 15:24 NIV).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HOSETTA LEARNED, THE HARD WAY, GOD IS A FAITHFUL GOD

 

          HOSETTA: REMAINING FAITHFUL TO GOD AND THE ADULTERER

 

 “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).  “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV). “…he remains faithful…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

                                       *

When Hosetta married George, it was the mid-80s  and they had a religious ceremony. She was excited that she was marrying a man from the Christian faith like herself.

For her, it meant, they would denounce any other religion, accept Christianity. And the relationship, between George and Hosetta, would, eventually, grow to reflect God’s relationship with his people.

Their marriage DID grow to reflect God’s relationship with his people, but NOT in the way Hosetta had imagined.

In God’s relationship with his people he is ALWAYS faithful, but his people can, willingly, CHOOSE to be unfaithful and wayward.

She learned, along the way, that God’s people could “choose” to be unfaithful to him in the same way George “chose” to be unfaithful to her.

George became a wayward husband and his addiction made him a chronic adulterer.

Adultery is not simply about someone cheating. Adultery is about a married person, who is “one flesh” with another, having sexual intercourse with a third party other  than their spouse, which “defiles” the SACRED marital relationship.

To defile the SACRED marriage is to make it UNCLEAN. Adultery dishonored the SACRED marriage and actually desecrated it.

Adultery isn’t just an act of disrespect against the other spouse, but it is also an act of disrespect toward God and his holy instructions for marriage.

The defilement of adultery is the way the marriage is MADE impure, which is usually through sexual impurity.

Sexual sin defiles the person committing the act. The person committing the act of adultery becomes unclean and defiles the SACRED marriage, the spouse, and the children.

The bible says not to even “keep” company with a brother or sister in-the-Lord who is an adulterer (1 Corinthians 5:11).

The bible also says that “out of the heart” come “evil thoughts,” such as adulteries, and this kind of act defiles a man or woman (Matthew 15:18-20).

In the Old Testament there were ways people could CLEAN themselves from acts of defilement.

Back in the day, acts of defilement would separate a person from God’s SACRED people, and his SACRED dwelling place (the temple).

If a person had defiled themselves and still went into God’s SACRED dwelling, their uncleanness would desecrate the temple.

Prayers or any other homage to God, the Holy Spirit would not be accepted, from a defiled person, without, first, being cleanse from their defilement.

In the New Testament if a person is cleanse, by the blood, but commits acts of defilement, they have willingly chosen to desecrate the temple of the Holy Spirit (the body).

The ongoing practice of adultery or sexual sin defiles God’s temple and defiles one’s SACRED marriage.

This defilement is a spiritual (God), physical (spouse), and heart involved (self) betrayal that reveals a person’s broken covenant relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, and their broken covenant relationship with their OWN spouse.

Adultery defiles, but the ongoing practice of adultery is a witness to what an  individual treasures more than God and most likely, more than their spouse.

When Hosetta realized George had all the tools, he needed to overcome his addiction - doctors, psychiatrists, counselors, SAA groups, her, God, the indwelling Holy Spirit, and his POWERFUL word – she knew he treasured his sexual addiction more. And his heart became devoted to what he treasured (Matthew 6:21).

George didn’t have to choose to walk in the adultery that continually defiled him and their life together, but HE DID.  God loved George and he relentlessly pursued his heart, but George kept doing what HE WANTED to do.

Hosetta knew the pursuit well, because she was the vessel God used to go after George’s heart. “…[God’s]... people ...[will]... not listen to ...[HIM... They ...[keep]... doing whatever they [want]…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). “… The people replied, “Don’t waste your breath. We will continueto live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT). “…Thus saith the Lord; ‘Cursed be the MAN (or woman) ... whose HEART departeth from the Lord…” (Jeremiah 17:5 KJV).

George broke his covenant with God, first and foremost. “…[MY PEOPLE]... broke [THEIR] ... covenant [WITH ME], though I [love]...them as a..[righteous]... husband loves his wife,” says the Lord…” (Jeremiah 31:32 NASB).

George professed to be redeemed their WHOLE marriage. Thus, he would have had the indwelling Holy Spirit’s power, within him, the WHOLE marriage, to enable him to CHOOSE righteous living by FAITH (trusting in and depending upon God).

George would have been freed from sin. If he’d confessed his sins, received God forgiveness, allowed God to cleanse him, and empower him to turn (repent) from his adulteries; God had promised to help him do it. “…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “…The Lord who made you and helps you says: Do not be afraid …my servant …my chosen one…” (Isaiah 44:2 NLT). “… The Holy Spirit helpsus in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “…You are my helper and my savior…” (Psalms 40:17 NLT).

George focused on what God could  “DO” FOR  HIM outwardly while Hosetta focused on what God could DO FOR HER inwardly.

George was an ethical man, without spiritual fruit, who had one foot in the marriage and the other foot in the world of sexual addiction. She couldn’t always see, clearly, the impact his defilement had on their life.

In hindsight, what she learned about ethical behavior, is that it makes you FOCUS on what a person “does” MORE than “who” they are within.

When George was at home with his family he was ethical and it made her question the things she did see that were unethical. How could George DO the right thing and not BE the right thing? “…Ye shall know [God’s people]… by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV).

While she was simply observing some of George’s unethical behaviors as they impacted their lives together; George was actually, in the world of sexual impurity, engaging, participating, and practicing unethical behavior.

George attempted to serve (attend to) God, her, Oscar, and his addiction. The bible distinctly says “NO MAN” can serve two masters, (something/one that demands/requires your utmost loyalty), but eventually he (she) will HATE one and LOVE the other or they will be DEVOTED to one and DEPISE the other.

There was NO WAY George could go on and on trying to attend to God, his marriage, his family and his addiction without eventually having to choose one over the other.

He, especially, couldn’t continue to be in a covenant relationship with God, the Holy Spirit while being and choosing to remain ENSLAVED to sexual impurity.

He, also, couldn’t continue to be in a covenant marriage with Hosetta, either, while choosing to remain ENSLAVED to his “other” life.

Eventually George would have to CHOOSE and one day HE DID.  “...You cannot serve God and be enslaved... [to sin too]...” (Matthew 6:24). “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

Ethical behavior doesn’t produce a righteous heart of devotion toward God or toward those you love. The bible say people pay God lip-service, but “their hearts” are far from him. “…This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me” (Mark 7:6 KJV).

Ethical behavior accomplishes nothing, but FALSE CHARM. “…The flesh (ethical behavior) profiteth nothing…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…Human effort (ethical behavior) accomplishes nothing….” (John 6:63 NLT).

George was GOOD at offering her FALSE CHARM (behaviors, which would make her think he’s  being emotionally engaging). George gave her attention, cooperated with her, and did kind gestures. In these moments, he would throw her a compliment or two, bring her gifts, do things he knew she would enjoy, and focus on pulling her emotions toward him.

Once George would pull her emotions toward him, he would STOP his FALSE CHARM and go back to his illusive self.

Hosetta, would then, find herself chasing after George’s heart again, but it kept getting farther and farther away from her.

George SAID and DID many ethical and charming things to keep her heart drawn to him, while purposely keeping his far from her. George was good at sucking her in over and over again.

He would do something she liked to charm her and get her interested in him  again. It worked for a long time. It was a hurtful cycle, because George would make and dangle promises, to her, he had no intentions on keeping. He would simply say things he thought she wanted to hear. “...thank you for sticking with me...” “...I’m cutting down on my activities. I’m not as bad as I was...” “.... this song by Oleta Adams says what’s on my heart...” “...I love you just the way you are...” “...I know I’ve been a jerk, Zest, but don’t give up on me...” “...I’m changing...” “...I am going to be a better husband, Zest...”

Hosetta would fall for it every time and it would make her IGNORE everything he’d done to break her heart and abuse her emotions.

She loved him and she would allow herself to be fooled by his FALSE CHARM knowing it was a bunch of BULL. It felt GOOD, for the moment, and his FALSE CHARM was sometimes better than nothing at all. Plus, deep inside, a part of her, wanted it to be true, even she it probably wasn’t.

When she’d fall for his false charm, she’d only ended up hurt again, especially when he would abruptly stop. She invested so much in her relationship with George, but he was often careless with her heart and emotions. Had the whole relationship been a waste?

Hosetta yo-yo-ed between submitting to his FALSE CHARM and being hurt by them. Hosetta found herself trying, with everything she had, to do things to please him, just to be told she was still falling short as a woman and a wife Always 99 ½.

George, however, knew  what she really wanted; sincere love and affection. He would use her desire for “sincere love and affection” as an opportunity to mistreat her or to manipulate her.

Wanting sincere love and affection, from George was dangerous to her heart and her emotional health. Eventually Hosetta knew NOT to want or be dependent on him for NOTHING, especially things, such as love and affection. Even though she had a right to expect those things as his covenant wife.

Hosetta, got to the point, where she didn’t want to be helpless, needy, or vulnerable to George in anyway. If George SAW she wanted “something” from him, it would come with a price tag.

In the course of their marriage, Hosetta sincerely loved George and she didn’t want to lose her husband. She had often, over the course of their marriage, tried to do whatever she could to win his approval.

It happened slowly, but it began to dawn on Hosetta, George didn’t love her. He didn’t care how she felt and he certainly didn’t care how his behavior was damaging her life or Oscar’s.

Hosetta married George in order to spend her life with him and deepen their bond. But his heart slowly drifted in another direction. His attempt to cleave to her was lost to the master that his heart was truly cleaved to.

The treasures that sexual impurity offered George held the riches he desired and longed for with ALL his heart.

In hindsight, Hosetta knew she could be the best and most kind-hearted wife in the world. She could blow his mind sexually. She could intrigue him with all her accolades, bells and whistles. She could have physical beauty that stopped traffic, but she could NOT compete with the power of George’s human will. .“… They keptdoing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts...” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

“...They went backward instead of forward...” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). “...the people replied, “Don’t waste your breath. We will continueto live as we wantto, stubbornly following our own evil desires” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

At the end of the day her faithfulness to George was her CHOICE and his unfaithfulness to her was his CHOICE.

George’s relationship to his sexual addiction held an attraction to him that made him serve it wholeheartedly.

It was the object of his devotion and it seemed to constantly fill his heart, inform his thoughts, and demand his behavior.

His addiction lead him away from their marriage and lead him to forsake the sacredness of it.

George took on the sinful characteristics of a chronic adultery. In private, behind closed doors, she was experiencing him as dishonest, narcissistic, intimately shallow, emotionally inept and unsafe, unapologetic, entitled, projecting blame, and living in denial. She also thought he acted ethically justified (if he DID right; he WAS right, but he didn’t have to BE right).

Hosetta was often concerned that if George continued to worship at the altar of adultery and didn’t repent, the marriage would eventually be destroyed. “… ONE sinner destroy[ed]… MUCH GOOD…” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB). It was on its way.

Why had God given her a husband like George? The Holy Spirit told her why. “...How can you know ME unless you share in my suffering?...” Hosetta wanted to “know” God, not just “know about” him.

That had been her prayer for years. “I want to know Christ--yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death…”(Philippians 3:10 NIV).

Her prayer to “know” God was a costly request. The old saints always said: “...be careful what you ask for...” “…The faithful followers of the Lord … keep their promises even when it hurts…” (Psalm 15:4 NLT).

Hosetta learned about God through the things she suffered through with George. Jesus did too. “…Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things he suffered…” (Hebrews 5:8 KJV). “….Christ pleased not himself…” (Romans 15:3 KJV).  “…For I have come down from heaven  ... TO DO ...THE WILL of him who sent me…” (John 6:38 NIV). “….the [reason the]... Son of Man came ...[was]...TO GIVE HIS LIFE as a ransom for many..." (Matthew 20:28).

Her marriage to George centered around an unending and relentless love for a WAYWARD husband, empowered by the indwelling Holy Spirit. It was HARD, but Hosetta was learning, through her suffering, that God had an unending and relentless love for each of HIS children.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son,,,” (John 3:16).

 “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation (substitute, intervention) for our sins.” (1 John 4:10 KJV).

“We love, because HE FIRST LOVED US…” (1 John 4:19 ASV).

God “…SPARED NOT his own Son, but delivered him up FOR US ALL…” (Romans 8:32 KJV). “…God SHOWED HIS GREAT LOVE FOR US by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners…” (Romans 5:7-9 NLT).

“…There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life…” (John 15:13 NLT).

Hosetta’s heart was unhappy over George’s constant betrayal and she felt every bit of that betrayal. But God’s people betrayed his heart, all the time, especially those who have turned their backs on him. “…thou hast gone a whoring after the heathen, and …art polluted with their idols…” (Ezekiel 23:30). “…They ABANDONED the Lord… they turned their backs on him….” (2 Chronicles 29:6 NLT).

“… [YOU]… FORGOT all about ME,” says the Lord…” “…Does a young woman forget her jewelry, or a bride her wedding dress? Yet for years on end my people have FORGOTten ME…” (Jeremiah 2:32 NLT).

Hosetta’s calling was to be a “...mouthpiece for God’s heart...” by becoming an, experiential, WITNESS to God’s FAITHFUL love for a WAYWARD people. “...you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere (through speech, lifestyle, and CONDUCT)...” (ACTS 1:8 NLT).

“…...Who will separate us from the love of Christ? …”(Romans 8:31-39 NASB).

“…Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword …”(Romans 8:31-39 NASB).

“...[NO]  …”(Romans 8:31-39 NASB).

“…[Nothing]…will be able to separate us from the love of God,which is in Christ Jesus our Lord…”(Romans 8:31-39 NASB).

BUT, “…My people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts. They went backward instead of forward” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).  “…The people replied, “Don’t waste your breath. We will continueto live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

“…Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily (the adulterer “seem” to be flourishing, but are not. They are, however, being given an opportunity to get right with God)…[nonetheless]...the HEART of the sons of men (the heart of the adulterer) is fully set in them to do evil [instead of repenting]….” (Ecclesiastes 8:11 KJV).

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GOD'S HOLY GLORY IS THE WITNESS OF HIS PRESENCE, HIS GOODNESS, OR HIS POWER

 

                                                                       
HOLY GLORY

“…Moses said, “…show me your glory.” …The Lord said, “I will cause all my GOODNESS to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the Lord, in your presence…” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV).

*

God’s HOLY GLORYis basically manifested in the MANY expressions of his invisible PRESENCE. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). Jesus said, "I and my Father are…ONE…" (John 10:30 KJV).  “…Now the Lord is that Spirit…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV). “… the Lord, in your presence…” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV). “… You set me in Your presence forever…” (Psalms 44:12 NASB). “…YOU MAKE HIM “MOST” BLESSED forever … in YOUR PRESENCE…” (Psalms 21:6 NASB).

“…Jesus Christ is in you…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…Christ in you, …” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). “…The Spirit of God dwell[s] in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).  “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me…” (Galatians 2:20 KJV).“…if Christ be in you… [then] …the Lord …[is] … in your presence …” (Romans 8:10 KJV &Exodus 33:16-23 NIV).

Thus, God’s HOLY GLORYis the manifestationof the invisible PRESENCE,  his HOLY GOODNESS witnessed in his character, his HOLYGOOD DEEDS, and through his HOLY eternal power.  “… “I will cause all my GOODNESS to pass in front of you …” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV). “… since the creation of the world His invisibleattributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made…” (Romans 1:20 NASB). “….the whole earth is full of [God’s]…glory (manifested goodness or good deeds)…” (Isaiah 6:3). “….God saw every thing he had made……and, [said] … it wasVERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

“…Thou are GOOD and doest GOOD…” (Psalm 119:68 KJV). The bible says, “…for the lord is GOOD…” (Psalm 100:5 KJV). ““…Oh how great is thy GOODNESS…” (Psalm 31:19 KJV). “…for he is GOOD…” (Psalm 107:1 KJV). “..The lord is GOOD…” (Nahum 1:7 KJV). “…GOODand upright is the Lord…”(Psalm 25:8 KJV). “…For thou, Lord, is GOOD…” (Psalm 86:5 KJV). Thou are GOOD and doest GOOD…” (Psalm 119:68 KJV).

God’s HOLY GOODNESSis witnessed in the desirable qualities of his HOLY nature, his MANY benevolent kindnesses, and his everlasting, righteous excellence.

God’s HOLY GLORYis also manifested in the proclamation of his HOLY NAME. “… Glory in His holy name …” (1 Chronicles 16:10 NASB).  “…I will proclaim my name, the Lord, in your presence …” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV). “…THY NAME is GREAT in might…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

The various forms of the TRUE God’s name(s) carries with them DIVINE meaning, DIVINE purpose, DIVINE sovereignty, DIVINE POWER and HIGHLY distinguishes him from any other false gods. “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

“…Moses said, “…show me your glory.” …The Lord said, “I will cause all my GOODNESS to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the Lord, in your presence…” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV).

What is God’s HOLY GLORY in this verse? God’s HOLY GLORYembodies ALL the manifestations of his presence witnessed in his HOLY GOODNESS, his HOLY GOOD DEEDS, and his HOLY NAME that distinguishes him from ALL other false gods. “…Thou (God) are GOODand doestGOOD (holy goodness)…” (Psalm 119:68 KJV). “… Tell of His glory among the nations, His wonderful (holy) deeds among all the peoples…” (1 Chronicles 16:24 NASB). “… Glory in His holy name …” (1 Chronicles 16:10 NASB).  

As a child you were told not to look directly at the sun.  If you do happen to look at the sun with the naked, human eye, the damage to the retina is irreversible.

God’s HOLY GLORYis more brilliance than that of the sun. “… And the city had no need of the sun … for the (holy) glory of God did lighten it …” (Revelation 21:23 KJV).

God’s HOLY GLORY is manifested through his creations.  His HOLY GLORY alone is so SET APART from SIN and SO PURE it is like a blinding, transparent light that is too brilliant for the naked human eye.“… It shonewith the GLORY ofGod, and its brilliance was like that of a very precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal…” (Revelation 21:11 NIV).

In Exodus, “…Moses said, “…show me your glory.” …The Lord said …“you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live.” … When my GLORY passes by, I will …cover you with my hand until I have passed by …” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV).

Looking directly at the sun damages the eyes, looking at God’s HOLY Glory will kill you. “…You cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live …” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV).

God’s HOLY GLORYembodies ALL the manifestations of his presence witnessed in his HOLY GOODNESS, his HOLY GOOD DEEDS, and his HOLY NAME that distinguishes him from ALL other false gods. “…Thou (God) are GOOD and doest GOOD…” (Psalm 119:68 KJV). “… Tell of His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all the peoples…” (1 Chronicles 16:24 NASB). “… Glory in His holy name …” (1 Chronicles 16:10 NASB).

God’s HOLY Glory, UNLEASHED, is too RADIANT on the human eye; he has to put it in earthen vessels. “… When my GLORY passes by, I will …cover you with my hand until I have passed by …” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV). “ …we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us...” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV).

God’s HOLY Glorydistinguishes HIM from all other false gods “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

His HOLY Glorymarks him with supreme and superior magnificence MATCHED by NO other deity or human.  “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV). “…majestic in holiness…” (Exodus 15:11 KJV).

God’s HOLY gloryestablishes him in a category all by himself, “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV). “…You are veryGREAT;You are clothed in SPLENDER Covering Yourself with LIGHT as with a cloak…”(Psalm 104:1-2 NASB).“…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

His HOLY Gloryplaces Him HIGH above all other worldly riches, above earth, or heaven. “…His radiance is like the sunlight; He has rays flashing from His hand…” (Habakkuk 3:4.NASB). “… Let Your glory be above all the earth…” (Psalms 57:5, 11 NASB). “… His glory is above earth and heaven…” (Psalms 148:13 NASB).

God’s HOLY Gloryis flawless and “…there is none like unto thee, O LORD; thou art GREAT, and THY NAME is GREAT in might…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV). “…. the whole earth is full of [your]…(HOLY) glory…” (Isaiah 6:3).

There are many explanations and definitions for God’s HOLY GLORY. I will only discuss three aspects of God HOLY GLORY: the visible or audible manifestationof his HOLY Glory, the power of his HOLY Glory, and the radiant witness of his HOLY glory.

The visual or audible manifestations of his HOLY GLORYwas often reported in the bible “..And ye said, Behold, the Lord our God hath SHEWED us his GLORY and his greatness, and we have heard his voice out of the midst of the fire: we have SEENthis day that God doth talk with man, and he liveth…” (Dueteronomy 5:24 KJV). “…The heavens declare the GLORYof God…” (Psalms 19:1 KJV).  “…The heavens are tellingof the glory of God…” (Psalms 19:1 NASB). “…God’s glory is on tour in the skies…” (Psalms 19:1 MSG).

“… The heavens declare His righteousness, And all the peoples have seen His glory…” (Psalms 97:6 NASB).

“It came even to pass, as … [they] praised the Lord, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever: that then the house was filled with a cloud, even the house of the Lord; So that the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud: for the GLORY of the Lord had filled the house of God…” (2 Chronicles 5:13-14 KJV).

“…..Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest SEE the GLORY of God?” (John 11:40 KJV).

“….The God of GLORY APPEARED unto our father Abraham…” (Acts 7:2 KJV).

“… the glory of the Lordappeared to all the congregation...” (Numbers 16:19 NASB).

“… He has appeared in His glory…” (Psalms 102:16 NASB).

“…Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and SAWthe GLORY of God…” (Acts 7:55 NIV).

“And the temple was filled with smoke from the GLORY of God and from his power … ”(Revelation 15:8 KJV).

“… to the eyes of the sons of Israel the appearance of the glory of the Lord was like a consuming fire on the mountain top…” (Exodus 24:17 NASB).

 “And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the GLORY of God did lighten it…” (Revelation 21:23 KJV).

“And [For 40 years] [God’s glory] went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light (His glory); to go by day and night…Moses could not enter the tent of meeting because the cloud had settled on it, and the GLORY of the Lord filled the tabernacle.  So the cloud of the Lord was over the tabernacle by day, and fire was in the cloud by night, in the SIGHT of all the Israelites during all their travels…” (Exodus 13:21 KJV; Exodus 40: 35-38 NIV).

“… The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the people “SEE” HIS GLORY…” (Psalm 97:6 KJV).

The pillar of cloud, pillar of fire, and the smoke representedGod’s presence and were visual manifestations of his GLORY. These objects of God’s GLORY were visible to the Israelites.  “…Behold, the Lord our God hath SHEWED us his GLORY and his GREATNESS …” (Deuteronomy 5:24-25 KJV).

In the midst of the fire they heard the audible manifestation of his HOLY GLORY “…Behold, the Lord our God hath shewed us his glory and his greatness, and we have heard his voice out of the midst of the fire: …” (Deuteronomy 5:24-25 KJV).

The POWER of his HOLY GLORYis manifested through his presence witnessed in his HOLY GOOD DEEDS. “…..This sickness is not unto death, but for the GLORY ofGod…” (John 11:4 KJV). “…Jesus said to her, "Did I not say to you that if you believe, you will SEE THE GLORY OF GOD?…”(John 10:40 NASB). “…Jesus said…I AM the resurrection and I AM the life…..” (John 11:25 KJV). “And HE THAT WAS DEAD CAME FORTH, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go...”(John 11:43-44 KJV).

“….HE THAT WAS DEAD CAME FORTH...” was the manifestation of his HOLY GLORY and HOLY GOOD DEEDS. “….I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). “…all GLORY to God, who is able, through his mighty power … to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think …” (Ephesians 3:20-21 NLT).

The RADIANCE of his HOLY GLORYis manifested in his presence and witnessed “THROUGH” Jesus Christ. “…The Son is the radiance ofGod’s GLORY and the exact representation of his being…”(Hebrews 1:3 KJV).

“And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the GLORY of God the Father” (Philippians 2:11 KJV).

 “For God, who commanded the light to shine out ofdarkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the GLORY of God in the face of Jesus Christ…” (2 Corinthians 4:6 KJV).

“If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things Godmay be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the GLORYand the power for ever and ever. Amen” (1 Peter 4:11 NIV).

“And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the GLORY of Goddid lighten it, and the Lamb (Jesus) is the light thereof…” (Revelation 21:23 KJV).

“… His glory is great through Your salvation…” (Psalms 21:5 NASB).

When you know what his HOLY GLORYis, like the angels, you can personally recognize God’s HOLY GLORY when you SEE it. You can acknowledge it, praise it, or reverence it.  “…“Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his GLORY…” (Isaiah 6:3). “…the earth is filled with the LORD's GLORY…” (Number 14:21 NLT).

Remember, Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, said “….everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus [our]… Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ…” (Philippians 3:8 NLT).

 “…Jesus Christ is Lord, to the GLORY of God the Father…” (Philippians 2:11 KJV). “The Son (Jesus) is the radiance of God’s GLORY and the exact representation of his being….”(Hebrews 1:3 KJV). “….everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus [our]… Lord. …” (Philippians 3:8 NLT).

As his child, God wants you to see his HOLY GLORY and experience the power of his HOLY GLORY. “He said to [them].., "You are My Servant, Israel (HIS PEOPLE), In Whom I will show My GLORY…” (Isaiah 49:3 NASB).

You are servants of God. He WANTS to show you His HOLY Glory which he confirms “through” Christ. “….The Word (Jesus) became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we [can see] His (God’s) GLORY  (goodness, good deeds)…” (John 1:14 NASB). You can see God’s HOLY Glory because, “… The Son (Jesus) is the radiance of God’s GLORY and the EXACT representation of his being….”(Hebrews 1:3 KJV).

God’s HOLY GLORY is the PRESENCE of God himself and ALL the RICHES that COMES with him. What are the “riches” of His HOLY GLORY? “…The mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make KNOWN what is the RICHES of the GLORY…..; which is CHRIST IN YOU, the hope of glory:…” (Colossians 1:25-28 KJV). “…I pray that out of the riches of His GLORY, He may strengthen you with POWER through His Spirit in your inner being…” (Ephesians 3:16 NIV).

The manifestation of his presence witnessed through the RICHES of his HOLY GLORY is “Christ in YOU.” The question changes FROM: “What is God’s Glory,” TO: “Where is His Glory?”

This truly boggles the mind, but it is nonetheless true, His HOLY Glory is IN YOU!  “…To whom God would make KNOWN [where]… the riches of the glory [is]….. which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:…” (Colossians 1:25-28 KJV). “ …We (YOU) have this treasure in earthen vessels,that the excellency of the POWER may be of God, and not of us...” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV).

God’s HOLY GLORYis his manifested PRESENCE experienced through Christ Jesus. “…Know ye not your own selves …that Jesus Christ is in you…” (2 Corinthians KJV). “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV). “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?” (1 Corinthians 6:19 KJV). “…God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people” (2 Corinthians 6:16 KJV).

“… We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jarscontaining this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves…” (2 Corinthians 4:7 NLT).

Believers have RECEIVED the GIFT of the HOLY GLORY (God’s presence) through the indwelling Holy Spirit. When you don’t know the value of something you will abuse it. Paul knew he had received something priceless and valuable. “….everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus [our]… Lord. …” (Philippians 3:8 NLT).

The “…riches of God’s (Holy) glory….” highly contributes to the welfare, overall health, and healing of ALL mankind. “…I will put a new spirit in you. …” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The Spirit of God dwell[s]… in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).  “…May God himself, the God who makes everything holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together—spirit,soul, and body…” (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 MSG). “…Jesus Christ is in you…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). NLT).

God’s HOLY GLORYis his manifested PRESENCE witnessed through his creation, his grace, his mercy, his salvation in Jesus Christ, his love, his indwelling Holy Spirit, the way he sustains and upholds the world, through his magnificent promises, though his many benevolent, gracious, and good deeds, through the air we breathe, through sunshine and rain, through his refuge and strength, through his many comforts, and the list could go on and on. “ … I will extol You, my God, O King, And I will bless Your name forever and ever. Every day I will bless You,And I will praise Your name forever and ever. Great is the Lord, and highly to be praised,And His greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise Your works to another, And shall declare Your mighty acts. On the glorious  splendor of Your majesty And on Your wonderful works, I will meditate.  Men shall speak of the  power of Your awesome acts, And I will tell of Your greatness.  They shall eagerly utter the memory of Your abundant goodness And will shout joyfully of Your righteousness. The Lord is gracious and merciful; Slow to anger and great in lovingkindness. The Lord is good to all, And His mercies are over all His works. All Your works shall give thanks to You, O Lord, And Your godly ones shall bless You.They shall speak of the glory of Your kingdom And talk of Your power; To make known to the sons of men Your mighty acts And the glory of the majesty of Your kingdom. Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, And Your dominion endures throughout all generations. The Lord sustains all who fall
And raises up all who are bowed down. The eyes of all [look to You, And You give them their food in due time.You open Your hand And satisfy the desire of every living thing. The Lord is righteous in all His ways And kind in all His deeds. The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, To all who call upon Him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He will also hear their cry and will save them. The Lord keeps all who love Him, But all the wicked He will destroy.My mouth will speak the praise of the Lord, And all flesh will bless His holy name forever and ever…” (Psalms 145 NASB).

When you say “GLORY” you are giving PRAISE to the manifested PRESENCE of God witnessed in healing, Godly love, everything that has breath, music, certain people that “contain” his glory, spirit-filled sermons, all of creation, Godly deeds, conversions, the birth of a baby, a flower, the stars, a bird, etc. “… Praise Him in the heights! Praise Him, all His angels; Praise Him, all His hosts! Praise Him, sun and moon; Praise Him, all stars of light! Praise Him, highest heavens, And the waters that are above the heavens! Let them praise the name of the Lord, For He commanded and they were created. He has also established them forever and ever; He has made a decree which will not pass away.  Praise the Lord from the earth, Sea monsters and all deeps;Fire and hail, snow and clouds; Stormy wind, fulfilling His word; Mountains and all hills;Fruit trees and all cedars; Beasts and all cattle; Creeping things and winged fowl; Kings of the earth and all peoples; Princes and all judges of the earth; Both young men and virgins; Old men and children. Let them praise the name of the Lord, For His name alone is exalted; His glory (manifested PRESENCE) is above earth and heaven. And He has lifted up a horn for His people, Praise for all His godly ones; Even for the sons of Israel, a people near to Him. Praise the Lord!” (Psalms 148 NASB).

Everything that belongs to God will manifest his HOLY GLORY. Believers BELONG to God and “contain” his HOLY GLORY through the indwelling Holy Spirit. “…Jesus Christ is in you…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God. But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do nothave the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.)….” (Romans 8:8-11 NLT).

God’s people and ALL of his creation will exhibit his HOLY GLORY. “…Let every created thing give praise (be a witness of his PRESENCE) to the Lord…” (Psalms 148:5 NLT).

His HOLY GLORY is his manifested PRESENCE witnessed through the natural world in many ways, including through God’s people, who BELONG to him. “… All Your worksshall give thanks to You, O Lord, And Your godly ones shall bless You…” (Psalms 145 NASB).

No matter how God chooses to manifest his PRESENCE (GLORY) his HOLY SPIRIT is the SOURCE of it ALL!! “[God’s] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of it ALL]…” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

God’s HOLY GLORYis CLEARLY manifested in the MANY expressions of his invisible PRESENCE. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “… the Lord is that Spirit…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV). “… the Lord, in your presence…” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV). “… [God makes YOU] ... “MOST” BLESSED forever … in … [his] … PRESENCE…” (Psalms 21:6 NASB).

GLORY! HOLY GLORY!!

THE USHER HELPS YOU ENTER HIS GATES "ONLY"ON SUNDAY!

 

                                                  
GATEKEEPER-USHER

“…The gatekeeper opensthe gate….I (JESUS) am the gatefor the sheep…Those who come in through me will be saved....” (John 10:1-10 NASB).

*

 The gatekeeper is a person who GUARDS or CONTROLS the access or entrance to something or someplace. The gatekeeper also supervises, monitors, or oversees the traffic, or flow of people or information, or the actions of others, or the passage into the gateway.

They are GUARDIANS, CUSTODIANS, WATCHMEN, PROTECTORS, LOOKOUTS, USHERS, CARETAKERS, PATROLERS, WARDENS, SENTINELS, OR KEEPERS OF THE GATE or DOOR, or ENTRANCE.

In the Old Testament gatekeepers were readily known as guardians or security guards to the entrances of certain places, “…the watchman called to the gatekeeper and said, “Behold, another man running by himself…” (2 Samuel 18:26 NASB); or cities, “…they came and called to the gatekeepers of the city…” (2 Kings 7:10-11 NASB); or houses, “…the slave-girl who kept the door …” (John 18:17 NASB); or sacred grounds, “…Berechiah and Elkanah were gatekeepers for the ark… Obed-edom and Jehiah also were gatekeepers for the ark…” (1 Chronicles 15:23-24 NASB).

Gatekeepers, like modern-day ushers, also guarded the entrance to the temple.  “…He stationed the gatekeepersof the house of the Lord, so that no one would enter who was in any way unclean…” (2 Chronicles 23:19 NASB). “…The four chief gatekeepers who were Levites, were …over the treasuries in the house of God…” (1 Chronicles 9:26 NASB). “…Mattaniah, Bakbukiah, Obadiah, Meshullam, Talmon andAkkub were gatekeepers keeping watch at the storehouses of the gates…” (Nehemiah 12:25 NASB).

Gatekeepers were so important that whole Levite clans, families, or tribes were assigned to the duties of the office and were active participants at the gates. “…These are the divisions of the gatekeepers: From the Korahites …The sons of Obed-edom, also gatekeepers, …God had richly blessed Obed-edom. Obed-edom’s son Shemaiah had sons with great ability who earned positions of great authority in the clan.….All of these descendants of Obed-edom, including their sons and grandsons—sixty-two of them in all—were very capable men, well qualified for their work. Meshelemiah’s eighteen sons and relatives were also very capable men…Hosah’s sons and relatives, who served as gatekeepers, numbered thirteen in all. These divisions of the gatekeepers were named for their family leaders, and like the other Levites, they served at the house of the Lord. They were assigned by families for guard duty at the various gates, without regard to age or training, for it was all decided by means of sacred lots. The responsibility for the east gate went to Meshelemiah and his group. The north gate was assigned to his son Zechariah, a man of unusual wisdom.The south gate went to Obed-edom, and his sons were put in charge of the storehouse. Shuppim and Hosah were assigned the west gateand the gateway leading up to the Temple. Guard duties were divided evenly.  Six Levites were assigned each day to the east gate, four to the north gate, four to the south gate, and two pairs at the storehouse. Six were assigned each day to the west gate, four to the gateway leading up to the Temple, and two to the courtyard. These were the divisions of the gatekeepers from the clans of Korah and Merari…” (1 Chronicles 26:1-19 NASB).

“…They and their sons had charge of the gatesof the house of the Lord, even the house of the tent, as guards. The gatekeepers were on the four sides,to the east, west, north and south…”(1 Chronicles 9:23-24 NASB).

Gatekeepers are the same as doorkeepers, porters, watchmen, or ushers. This book is basically viewing the gatekeeper as synonymous to the ushers of today and will be using the two words interchangeably.

Therefore, I am writing about and dedicating this book to USHERS!!

A gatekeeper or usher is a person who watches at the entrance of the “house of God” to open or shut, or monitor, or keep order at the entry or portal.

One of the main duties of the gatekeeper or usher is to OPEN the door, or OPEN the GATE, or OPEN the way and maintain reverence or order.

In the Old Testaments there were all kinds of gates. Gatekeepers were mostly GUARDS, but they had to be trustworthy, alert, and extremely watchful. “…Now the gatekeepers wereShallum and Akkub and Talmon and Ahiman and their relatives (Shallum the chief being stationed until now at the king’s gate to the east). These were the gatekeepers for the camp of the sons of Levi.Shallum the son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his relatives of his father’s house, the Korahites, were over the work of the service, keepers of the thresholds of the tent; and their fathers had been over the camp of the Lord, keepers of the entrance. Phinehas the son of Eleazar was ruler over them previously, and the Lord was with him.  Zechariah the son of Meshelemiah was gatekeeper of the entranceof the tent of meeting.All these who were chosen to be gatekeepers at the thresholds were 212. These were enrolled by genealogy in their villages, whom David and Samuel the seer appointed in their office of trust…” (1 Chronicles 9:17-22 NASB).

Once, two hundred and twelve gatekeepers were chosen and ordained; they were in an “office oftrust.” (1 Chronicles 9:22).

Some of the first people assigned to the new wall GATES, Nehemiah had built, were gatekeepers (Nehemiah 7:1). “..Now when the wall was rebuilt ….I …set up the doors, and the gatekeepers  …” (Nehemiah 7:1-3 NASB).

Gatekeepers were stationed at the entrance BEFORE a city was even open to public access or a temple was open for service. “…The gatekeepers, Akkub, Talmon and their brethren who kept watch at the gates, were 172…” (Nehemiah 11:19 NASB).

Gatekeepers were an active and prominent part of the temple staff. They guarded ALL the rooms, the valuables in the rooms, and had all the keys (1 Chronicles 9:26; Nehemiah 12:47).

At one time in history, gatekeepers were the ONLY way into the sacred place; like Jesus. “…There is no other name (WAY) under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved…” (Acts 4:12 NIV).

The position or ministry of gatekeepers, now ushers, are a visual symbol of how Jesus is the ONLY way to God. “…I am the gate....” (John 10:1-10 NASB). “…Jesus saith unto him, I AM THE WAY … no mancometh unto the Father, but by me…” (John 14 6 KJV).

If individuals try to get into the temple/church or to salvation in any other way, except through the GATE or JESUS CHRIST, it is the WRONG WAY. “…I am the gate....” (John 10:1-10 NASB). “…SALVATION is found in no one else…” (Acts 4:12 NIV).

Going through the gatekeeper was the ONLY way into the GATE and the temple/church. “…I do my share on behalf of His body, which is the church…” (Colossians 1:24 NASB).

Today’s temple/church is not the building, but the people. “…Your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you…” (1 Corinthians 6:19 KJV).

Jesus Christ is the ONLY way to salvation and eternal life. “…SALVATION is found in no one else…” (Acts 4:12 NIV). “…Jesus saith unto him, I AM THE WAY …” (John 14 6 KJV).

Back in the day, only thieves, robbers, wolves, lairs, and fakes tried to SNEAK into the GATES illegally. “…I tell you the truth, anyone who sneaks over the wall of a sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber! But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice. They won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice.” Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn’t understand what he meant, so he explained it to them: “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before mewere thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them.Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved....” (John 10:1-10 NASB).

The parable, above, is about the shepherd and the sheep. It is used figuratively to represent Christ’s relationship with the believer.

In this scenario, sheep, which represent God’s people, have been given access or entrance into the sheepfold. The shepherd protectively confines the sheep in the sheepfold for the night.

A sheepfold was a four-sided walled enclosure where sheep were gathered and sheltered, for a time period or for the night.

Some sheepfolds were rock walls that served as protection from wolves, “thieves, and robbers” (John 10:8 KJV).

The sheepfold, of course, had a GATE, which served as a DOOR or entrance for the sheep to come and go. “…I am THE DOOR: by MEif any man enter in, he shall be SAVED and shall go in and out, and find pasture…” (John 10:9 KJV).

Interestingly, the Shepherd of the sheep, actually, laid at the DOOR or GATE of the sheepfold so if a THIEF or WOLF tried to enter they would have to climb over the shepherd. “…I lay down MY LIFE for the sheep…” (John 10:15 KJV).

For a moment, Jesus steps into the roles of both a shepherd and a gatekeeper. Then JESUS takes gatekeeping/ushering to another level by laying down his life, at the GATE, for the protection of the SHEEP. “…Greater love hath no man than this, than a man lay down his life for his friends (SHEEP)…” (John 15:13 KJV).

At this moment, in scripture, gatekeeping went from simply being a position of a Levitical religious service or an inherited religious right to a sacrificial Christlike ministry. “…David spoke to the chiefs of the Levites to appoint their relatives …Obed-edom and Jeiel, the gatekeepers…” (1 Chronicles 15:16-18 NASB“… a man lay down hislife…” (John 15:13 KJV).

Jesus demonstrated the kind of shepherd and gatekeeper he was. Jesus’ example forever revolutionized the ROLE of a gatekeeper or USHER. “…I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd GIVETHhis life (lay down at the GATE) for the sheep…” (John 10:11 KJV). “….Christ pleased not himself…” (Romans 15:3 KJV). “…In this world we (ushers) are… [to be]… like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).

Jesus was saying gatekeepers or ushers: “….By the mercies of God…present your bodies as a LIVING SACRFICE…unto God…” (Romans 12:1 KJV). “…love one another; as I have loved you…” (John 13:34-35 KJV). “…”I” lay down my life…no man taken it from me, but “I”lay it down of myself (by choice). “I” have POWER (choice) to lay it down, and I have POWER (choice) to take it again...This commandment have I received of my Father…” (John 10:17-18 KJV). “….Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, my…[sheep]… YE HAVE DONE IT TO ME…” (Matthew 25:40 KJV). “…whatsoever [the USHER does], [Let him or her]…do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men…” (Colossians 3:23 KJV).

After spending that time with Jesus, opening the GATE, took on a WHOLE new meaning for gatekeepers and ushers. “…I am the gate for the sheep...” (John 10:1-10 NASB).

Gatekeepers were not JUST opening a GATE, but they were OPENING the WAY to Jesus, who was the GATE.“… I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved....” (John 10:1-10 NASB). “Jesus saith…I am the way (THE GATE)…” (John 14:6 KJV).

After spending quality time with the gatekeeper, Jesus was the FIRST to ENTER the GATE. “…But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep…” (John 10:1-10 NASB).

Thus, Jesus also demonstrates, to the gatekeeper, that “…the shepherd of the sheep…” is “…the one who enters through the gate…” AND “… The gatekeeper  [also]…opens the gate for him…”(John 10:1-10 NASB).

Jesus is the Chief Shepherd, but he calls men to be shepherds too; they are also called pastors or elders. “…Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder… shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness; nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. …Peace be to you all who are in Christ…” (1 Peter 5:1-4 NASB).

Pastors come in through the GATE too “…as your fellow elder…” and like everyone else they must follow the same WAY too. (1 Peter 5:1-4 NASB). “… I am the gate. Those who come in through me (JESUS) will be saved....” (John 10:1-10 NASB). “Jesus saith…I am the way…” (John 14:6 KJV).

God ASSIGNS Shepherds to his SHEEP so his sheep can continually HEAR “HIS” voice through them. “…I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding…” (Jeremiah 3:15 NIV).  “…He gave some …..pastors (shepherds) and teachers…” (Ephesians 4:11 NIV). “…I will set up shepherdsover them which shall feed them… saith the LORD…” (Jeremiah 23:4 KJV).“…I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, evenmy servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd…” (Ezekiel 34:23 KJV).

The shepherd/pastor goes into the GATEWAY to minister to the SHEEP and to be a mouthpiece (voice) God’s message. “… The gatekeeper opens the gate for him…” (John 10:1-10 NASB).

The shepherd speaks Gods’ message to the sheep. “…and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice. They won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice…” (John 10:1-10 NASB).

“…The gatekeeper opensthe gate….I (JESUS) am the gatefor the sheep…Those who come in through me will be saved....” (John 10:1-10 NASB).

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SUPERIOR IS A DIVINE TRAIT CALLED HOLY!

                                                   
SKIN COLOR or BIOLOGICAL RACE ARE NOT "HOLY" OR SUPERIOR!

 “…you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God's OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light …” (1 Peter 2:9 NASB).

“… If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land…” (1  CHRONICLES 7:14 NASB). 

*

COLOR as it relates to RACE strictly refers to the PIGMENT of someone’s skin TONE. “What COLOR is she?” “What COLOR is he?”

RACE usually refer to groups of people who SHARE or HAVE biological features or physical characteristics such as skin tone, hair, bone structure, DNA, or eye color.

Ethnicity refers to groups of people who SHARE or HAVE a common culture, traditions, ancestry, or language.

Different RACES have various shades of skin color from pale white to dark brown. Different ethnicities give less credence to skin color, as much as country identification, or traits, cultural ties, and ancestral associations. You can be a mixed race, and belong or identify with only ONE ethnicity.

Race and ethnicity are more often than not used interchangeably, but both aid in understanding the different ways people identify themselves racially and ethnically.

The biblical Israelites were Semitic-speaking people in Ancient Near East also known as Hebrews or Jews

They were members of one of the twelve biblical tribes who were direct descendants of Jacob.

The modern-day Jews, Hebrews, and Samaritans can trace their ancestry back to the biblical Israelites.

However, skin color, pigmentation, biological race, or ethnicity does not play as big a part in their connection with Yahweh as the FACT that he simply CHOSE them.  “… the Lordthy God hath chosen theeto be a special people...” (Deuteronomy 7:6).

Yahweh changed Jacob’s name to Israel. “… What is your name?” And he said, “Jacob.” He said, “Your name shall no longer be Jacob, but Israel….” (Genesis 32:28-29 NASB).

Once Yahweh changed their name they were often called “the Sons of Israel” or “the Children of Israel.” “…Moses spoke to the children of Israel…” (Deuteronomy 1:3 NASB). “… He said to the sons of Israel...” (Joshua 4:21 NASB).

Of all the people on earth, Yahweh decided to show MERCY and special treatment to the people of Israel. “…it is God who decides to show mercy. We can neither choose itnor work for it…” (Romans 9:14-16 NLT).  .  “… the Lordthy God hath chosen theeto be a special people...” (Deuteronomy 7:6).

The Israelites became a mixture of races and ethnicities; natives and foreigners; bought together through their shared worship of Yahweh and NOT the kinship of skin color, pigmentation, or biological race. “… the sons of Israel…. A mixed multitude also went up with them…” (Exodus 12:37-38 NASB).

“…If there are foreigners living among you who want to celebrate the Lord’s Passover, let all their males be circumcised. Only then may they celebrate the Passover with you like any native-born Israelite…” (Exodus 12:48 NASB). “ … You must not mistreat or oppress foreigners in any way…” (Exodus 22:21 NLT). “…You must not oppress foreigners…” (Exodus 23:9 NLT). “…Treat them like native-born Israelites, and love them as you love yourself. Remember that you were once foreigners living in the land of Egypt. I am the Lord your God…” (Leviticus 19:34 NLT). “…Give the people of Israel these instructions, which apply both to native Israelites and to the foreigners living in Israel…” (Leviticus 20:2 NLT).  “… The land (whole EARTH) belongs to … [God and He said]... You... [Israelites] … are only foreigners … [too] … and tenant farmers working for me…” (Leviticus 25:23 NLT).

The defining and distinguishing feature of the Israelites were that they were CHOSEN by Yahweh to be his people. “… the Lord thy God hath chosen theeto be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth..” (Deuteronomy 7:6).

Further, “…Native-born Israelites and foreigners are equal before the Lord and are subject to the same decrees…” (Numbers 15:15 NLT). “… The Lord protects the foreigners among us...” (Psalm 146:9 NASB). “… I will also bless the foreigners who commit themselves to the Lord, who serve him and love his name, who worship him and do not desecrate the Sabbath day of rest, and who hold fast to my covenant…” (Isaiah 56:6 NASB).

God ALWAYS does the CHOOSING and it is NOT based on skin color, pigmentation, biological RACE, or ETHNICITY. "… You did not choose me but I chose you, and appointed you  ...” (John 15:16 ASV).  “…Abide in Me, and I in you. … I am the vine, you are the branches … apart from Me you can do nothing…” (John 15:4-6 NASB

Yahweh - not skin color, pigmentation, biological race, or ethnicity - SETS them APART from other surrounding groups of people. “… God hath chosen thee to be a special people (SET APART) unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth” (Deuteronomy 7:6).

The Israelites DID “NOTHING” and had NOTHING special about them “EXCEPT”Yahweh CHOOSE to LOVE them. “… Jehovah did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all peoples…” (Deuteronomy 7:7 ASV).

The Israelites or “NO” other group of people have ANY racial or ethnic qualities to boast about in regard to being Yahweh’s CHOSEN people. “….All… boasting is evil….” (James 4:16 NASB).  “… You boast in your arrogance…..” (James 4:16 ASV).  “… They pour forth words; they speak arrogantly … [and the wicked] vaunt themselves (boast)…” (Psalm 94:4 ASV). “….Let another praise you and not your own mouth; a stranger and not your own lips…” (Proverbs 27:1-2 ASV). “…By the GRACE of God … [they are what they are] … (CHOSEN)…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).

“… those who wish to boast should boast in this alone: that they truly know me and understand that I am the Lord who demonstrates unfailing love and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth,and that I delight in these things. I, the Lord, have spoken!” (Jeremiah 9:23-24 NLT).  “….apart from Me, you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

Thus, spiritually, the CHOSEN Israelites were God’s ideal. “… HE Himself GIVES to all people LIFE and BREATH and all things…” (Acts 17:25 NASB).  “…I God, who GIVES LIFE to all things…” (1 Timothy 6:13 NASB). “… All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothingcame into being that has come into being … (John 1:1-4 NASB).

God’s decision for WHO would be HIS PEOPLE was not LIMITED to the Israeli biological race, skin color, pigmentation, or ethnicity as much as it was the common and shared WORSHIP of Yahweh. “…Thus says the Lord God, “No foreigneruncircumcised in heart and uncircumcised in flesh, of all the foreigners who are among the sons of Israel, shall enter My sanctuary…” (Exodus 44:9 NASB).  “… That the Sovereign Lord says: No foreigners, including those who live among the people of Israel, will enter my sanctuary if they have not been circumcised and havenot surrendered themselves to the Lord…” (Exodus 44:9 NLT).

“…  [Everyone] … who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children. [They]…are [ALL]… part of the same body, and enjoy the promise of … [provisions] … because THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).  

Unfortunately, mankind LIMITS himself and God to outward appearances such as race, pigmentation, and ethnicity as determining factors for being one of God’s PEOPLE. “...man looks at the outward appearance…” (1 Samuel 16:7 NASB).

God LOOKS at the HEART. “...God sees NOT as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart…”(1 Samuel 16:7 NASB). God zooms in on the “…hidden man of the heart…” (1 Peter 3:4 KJV). “… For from within, out of the heart of man, proceed evil thoughts… wickedness… pride...  All these evil things come from within, and defile a person…” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV).  

A heart STUCK on skin color, pigmentation, biological race, or ethnicity can be “…deceitful above all things and desperately wicked…” (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV).

In the natural or flesh, the Israelites begin with Jacob. Jacob was the grandson of Abraham. “… “Your name shall no longer be Jacob, but Israel….” (Genesis 32:28-29 NASB).

God made a covenant with Abraham, not based on skin color, pigmentation, biological race, or ethnicity, but Yahweh’s CHOICE ONLY! “… I appeared to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as God Almighty …” (Exodus 6:3 NASB). “…  “I AM WHO I AM” … ‘The Lord, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).

To Abraham he made these covenant vows: “…I will BLESS thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a BLESSING: And I will BLESS them that BLESS thee …in thee shall all families of the earth be BLESSED…”(Genesis 12:2-3 KJV).

Thus, it is NOT skin COLOR, pigmentation, biological RACE or ETHNICITY that matters to YAHWEH, but it is HIS “CHOICE” “…you areA CHOSEN RACE …” (1 Peter 2:9 NASB).

Your skin COLOR, pigmentation, or biological RACE isn’t why you’re CHOSEN. Your ETHNIC affiliation isn’t why you’re CHOSEN; it’s God’s LOVE. “… Jehovah …. set his loveupon you, …” (Deuteronomy 7:7 ASV).

When God CHOOSES you; you are included in his RACE of people; God’s RACE of people “IS” a CHOSEN race. “…you are A CHOSEN RACE …” (1 Peter 2:9 NASB).

God’s RACE is not based on the outward appearance such as skin color, pigmentation, biological race, or ethnicity, but HOLINESS. “…you are A CHOSEN RACE … A HOLY NATION…” (1 Peter 2:9 NASB).

God’s word affirms that you were CHOSEN by God to be one of his HOLY people….just like Israel in the Old Testament.  “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light…” (1 Peter 2:9 NIV).

God said about Israel, “… For thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God: the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth…” (Deuteronomy 7:6).

The bottom line is that…….God chooses YOU and you receive him. “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:”( John 1:12).

There is only one way to be chosen and that’s if God chooses you. "… I chose you, and appointed you  ...” (John 15:16 ASV). 

And the only criterion for His choosing you is based on his love for you and NO other reason. “… Jehovah did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all peoples…” (Deuteronomy 7:7 ASV).

No group of people is CHOSEN by God for their skin color or biological race. No group of people is CHOSEN by God for their ethnicity. No group of people is CHOSEN by God for their earthly wealth. No group of people is CHOSEN by God for their physical beauty. There is “NO”special criteria other than the GRACE of God. “…By the GRACE of God I am what I am (CHOSEN)…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV). “……There is NEITHER Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female…ye are ALL “one” in Christ….”(Galatians 3:26-28 KJV).

You have nothing to do with being chosen by God. "…You did not choose me but I chose you…” (John 15:16 ASV). 

God, ALONE, is the Chooser.  AND “…God SHOWS NO FAVORITISM …” (Acts 10:34-36 NLT). “…God is no RESPECTER OF PERSONS…” (Acts 10:34-36 KJV). “…YE ARE “ALL” CHILDREN OF GOD BY FAITH “IN” CHRIST JESUS…” (Galatians 3:26-28 KJV).

The COLOR or PIGMENTATION of a person’s skin PROFITS “nothing!” The ETHNICITY of a person PROFITS “nothing” either. “…the flesh  (skin color, pigmentation, ethnicity, etc.) profits nothing…” (John 6:63 NASB). “…It is the SPIRIT who “GIVES” LIFE…” (John 6:63 NASB). “… AS MANY as received him , to them GAVE HE POWER (INDWELLING SPIRIT) TO BECOME THE “SONS” OF GOD (children of God) … [AGAIN]… …” (John 1:12 KJV). 

When groups of people pair their skin color, pigmentation, biological race, or ethnicity with deity it creates idolatry. “… They … exchanged the glory of the incorruptible God for an image in the form of corruptible man…” (Romans 1:22-23 NASB).

Idolatry is when people worship something CREATED (such as skin color, pigmentation, biological race, or ethnicity, people, things, etc.) and forsake God. “…They instead became utter fools. And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people…” (Romans 1:22-23 NLT).

In regard to skin color or pigmentation an idol would be the worship of a particular race or ethnicity of people. “… You shall not make for yourself an idol, or any likeness (pictures, murals, hewn stone, carved wood, etc.) of what is in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the water under the earth…” (Exodus 20:4 NASB).

This race or ethnicity of people replaces God by putting their OWN image in pictures, paintings, sculptures, murals, ceramics, statues, etc. in place of God’s image. “… You shall not make for yourself an idol, or any likeness …” (Exodus 20:4 NASB).

From the beginning of biblical history God’s covenant with Israel was based on their exclusive worship of HIM and NOT fleshly skin color, or pigmentation, biological race, ethnicity, or pagan images.“… You shall have no other gods before Me…” (Exodus 20:3 & Deuteronomy 5:7 NASB).

The Israelites were not even to speak of or give any credence whatsoever to the existence of false images of God. “… You shall not make for yourself an idol…” (Exodus 20:4 NASB). “… make NO mention of the name of other gods, neither let it be heard out of thy mouth…” (Exodus 23:13 KJV).

Giving credence to the existence of false images – such skin tone, pigmentation, race, ethnicity, etc. – is to give the illusion of one kind of false deity over another. “…instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people…” (Romans 1:22-23 NLT).

Skin color, pigmentation, biological race, ethnicity have “NO” power and “NO” deity in and of themselves. “…Their idols are silver and gold, The work of man’s hands. They have mouths, but they cannot speak; They have eyes, but they cannot see; They have ears, but they cannot hear; They have noses, but they cannot smell…” (Psalms 115:4-6 NASB). “…Their godsare like helplessscarecrows in a cucumber field! They cannot speak, and they need to be carried because they cannot walk. Do not be afraid of such gods, for they can neither harm younor do you any good…” (Jeremiah 10:5 NLT).

The book of HOSEA uses adultery to explain Israel’s abandonment of God for false gods. They chased after these FALSE gods like an unfaithful wife chases after men other than her husband. “….For the land hath committed great whoredom, DEPARTINGfrom the Lord…” (Hosea 1:2 KJV).

Israel has a history of idol worship where graven images, made by human hands, replaced the one true GOD. “… You shall have no other gods before me. …” (Exodus 20:3-5 KJV). “…Then the wood-carver measures a block of wood and draws a pattern on it. He works with chisel and planeand carves it into a human figure. He gives it human beauty and puts it in a little shrine…” (Isaiah 44:13 NLT).

These false images or idols had NO power except in the MINDS of the people. “…Do not fear them, For they can do no harm, Nor can they do any good…” (Jeremiah 10:5 NASB). “…Let NOT thine heart ENVY sinners…” (Proverbs 23:17 KJV).

When IDOLS – such as skin tone, pigmentation, race, ethnicity - is worshipped it led Israel into destruction, and God’s wrath was poured out on them. “…You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below…” (Exodus 20:3-5 KJV).

Pairing false images with deity and worshipping statues, icons, pictures, murals, hewed stones, etc. has ALWAYS been a forbidden practice by God. “…. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God…” (Exodus 20:3-5 KJV).

False images and idols are many and varied, but our focus, for this book, is on the false images and idols of skin color, pigmentation, biological race, or ethnicity.

Groups of people have created the FALSE image or idol of SKIN COLOR or PIGMENTATION in the minds of men and women leading them astray. “…They ABANDONED the Lord to serve Baal (FALSE IMAGES)…” (Judges 2:13 NLT). “…Ever since I brought them from Egypt they have continually ABANDONED ME and followed other gods ( FALSE IMAGES)…” (1 Samuel 8:8 NLT). “…For my people have ABANDONED ME and offered sacrifices to pagan gods (FALSE IMAGES)…” (2 Kings 22:17 NLT). “…They ABANDONEDthe Lord… they turned their backs on him….” (2 Chronicles 29:6 NLT).

Those who bow, in their hearts and minds, to these false images of deity based on SKIN COLOR or PIGMENTATION are giving credence or existence to racial and ethnic idols. “…As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:..” (Romans 3:10 KJV). “… For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not…” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV). “… There is NONE GOOD but one, that is, God…”(Mark 10:18 KJV).

Those who have set themselves up as FALSE gods based on their SKIN COLOR or PIGMENTATION are exhibiting fleshly pride, self-centeredness, greed, gluttony, a god complex, rebellion, and inferiority“…They …serve ….their OWN belly…” (Romans 16:18 KJV). “…[their] … heart is not right in the sight of God…” (Acts 8:21 KJV). “...God sees not as man sees …the LORD looks at THE HEART…” (1 Samuel 16:7 NASB).  God SEES the “…hidden man of the heart…” (1 Peter 3:4 KJV). The heart “…is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked…who can know it [except God?]” (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV).  “… From WITHIN, out of a person’s heart, come evil thoughts (promotion of skin color, pigmentation, biological race, ethnicity, etc.), sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness.All these vile things come from WITHIN; they are what defile you…” (Mark 7:20-23 NLT).

Skin COLOR, PIGMENTATION, biological RACE, ETHNCITY that are used as objects of worship in certain countries or nations in place of God are regarded as IDOLS, especially when they used themselves as symbols of deity in pictures, murals, graven images, hewed stone, carved wood, statues, books, and social media outlets.

In the beginning, “…..God created man in his own image…..male and femalecreated he them…” (Genesis 1:27 KJV). “….Let us make man in our image, after our likeness…”(Genesis 1:26 KJV). “…God is Spirit…” (John 4:24 NIV).

Skin COLOR, pigmentation, biological race, and ethnicity is ALL FLESH and “NOT” Spirit. . “…the flesh (skin color, pigmentation, ethnicity, etc.) profitsnothing…” (John 6:63 NASB).

What can MAKE mankind BACK into God’s original, created “image” and “likeness?”“….LET US MAKEman … after our likeness…”(Genesis 1:26 KJV). “…in his OWN image…..male and female created he them…” (Genesis 1:27 KJV). “…And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground (body),and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (spirit); and man became a living soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). “…Jesus Christ makeththee whole…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “…If any man be in Christ, he is a NEW creature …” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “… [because] … all things are … [MADE] … NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “…I will put a new spirit in you. …” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT).

Therefore, “…May God himself, the God who makes everything holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together—spirit,soul, and body…” (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 MSG).

Skin color, pigmentation, race, or ethnicity WON”T save you as Apostle Paul acknowledges: “... I know that in me (that is, in my flesh (skin tone, pigmentation, race, ethnicity, etc.,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me” (Romans 7:18-20 KJV).

Your ENTIRE identity - not your skin tone, pigmentation, race, or ethnicity - changes during salvation. You become “….a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

God says, “…you are A CHOSEN RACE …” (1 Peter 2:9 NASB).The entrance into the CHOSEN race with God comes through faith. “…Ye are saved through faith…” (Ephesian 2:8-9 KJV). Unless you go into the relationship with God through faith you won’t become a member of the CHOSEN race.

God’s purpose for having a CHOSEN race of people is not to glorify their skin color, pigmentation, race, ethnicity, or to glorify a particular group of people, but to manifest the presence of God on the earth and reveal his holy nature to the world.

God’s intent for his CHOSEN people was to be HOLY, DISTINCT, and to DIRECT others towards Yahweh.“… salvation comes through the Jews…” (John 4:22 NLT).

In addition, the promised redeemer, Messiah, and Savior, Jesus Christ would come through his CHOSEN people.

“…you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God's OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light …” (1 Peter 2:9 NASB).

Jehovah God’s skin COLOR is SPIRIT. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). His RACE and ethnicity is HOLY. “… I AM HOLY…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV).  And, “…There is none holy as the Lord…” (1 Samuel 2:2 KJV).“…be holy, because I am holy…” (1 Peter 1:16 KJV). “…The fruit of the …[HOLY] … Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

 

TAKE BACK WHAT THE DEVIL STOLE FROM YOU!!!

                                                                    
A CHEATER

“…. Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.  For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; …” (Galatians 6:7-8 KJV).

*

 A cheater is “ANYBODY” who behaves in a dishonest way, on any level (financially, emotionally, spiritually, or physically) in order to gain some selfish advantage. “…Lying lips are abomination to the Lord…” (Proverbs 12:22 KJV).

A cheater gains this dishonest advantage by deliberately deceiving, tricking, misleading, being sexual unfaithful, swindling, defrauding, and eluding others. “…Her princes in the midst thereof are like wolves ravening the prey …to destroy souls, to get dishonest gain…” (Ezekiel 22:27 KJV).

Cheaters will cheat you out of your material possessions, your emotional health, your spiritual wealth, and your physical well-being if possible. “…he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption…” (Galatians 6:8 KJV).

This book will focus, mainly, on how people are cheated out of their emotional health by cheaters. “…Do notsteal. “Do not deceive or cheatone another…” (Leviticus 19:11 NLT).

If someone can cheat you out of your emotional health, then your material, spiritual, and physical goods will follow. Woe to the CHEAT or CHEATER who does this. “..What sorrow awaits you who lie awake at night, thinking up evil plans. You rise at dawn and hurry to carry them out, simply because you have the power to do so. When you want a piece of land, you find a way to seize it.When you want someone’s house, you take it by fraud and violence. You cheat a man of his property, stealing his family’s inheritance. But this is what the Lordsays: “I will reward your evil with evil; you won’t be able to pull your neck out of the noose. You will no longer walk around proudly, for it will be a terrible time…” (Micah 2:1-3 NLT).

A cheater can be so good at cheating and taking advantage of people that some people will never know or won’t ever realize they’ve been cheated until it’s too late. “…This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come . For men shall be lovers of their own selves, … unholy,… false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,… men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith. …. evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived…”(2 Timothy 3:1-13 KJV). “…Ye shall know them by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV).

 Why do Cheaters get away with this? “…Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily …the HEART of the sons of men is fully set in them… to do evil….” (Ecclesiastes 8:11 KJV).

Cheaters ARE NOT listening to God. “…But my people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts. They went backward instead of forward” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). “But the people replied, “Don’t waste your breath. We will continue to live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

The cheater, like a false prophet, can become a harmful and misleading attachment. “…Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves…” (Matthew 7:15 KJV). “…Many false prophets will arise and will mislead many….” (Matthew 24:11 NASB).

Others won’t know until they have spent their good, youthful years, given away or linked most of their material possessions to the cheater, invested much of their livelihood to them, risked their physical health for them, or lost sight of their spiritual journey and their Creator.

“…Don’t let the excitement of youth cause you to forget your Creator. Honor him in your youth before you grow old and say, “Life is not pleasant anymore.” Remember him before the light of the sun, moon, and stars is dim to your old eyes, and rain clouds continually darken your sky. Remember him before your legs—the guards of your house—start to tremble; and before your shoulders—the strong men—stoop. Remember him before your teeth—your few remaining servants—stop grinding; and before your eyes—the women looking through the windows—see dimly. Remember him before the door to life’s opportunities is closed and the sound of work fades. Now you rise at the first chirping of the birds, but then all their sounds will grow faint. Remember him before you become fearful of falling and worry about danger in the streets; before your hair turns white like an almond tree in bloom, and you drag along without energy like a dying grasshopper, and the caperberry no longer inspires sexual desire. Remember him before you near the grave, your everlasting home, when the mourners will weep at your funeral. Yes, remember your Creator now while you are young, before the silver cord of life snaps and the golden bowl is broken. Don’t wait until the water jar is smashed at the spring and the pulley is broken at the well. For then the dust will return to the earth, and the spirit will return to God who gave it…” (Ecclesiastes 12:1-7 NLT).

A cheater slowly, but surely kills, steals and destroys the other person while making themselves an indispensable stronghold (entrenchment, domination, fortified place, etc.“…The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy…” (John 10:10 KJV).

The cheater is sufficiently benefitted at the other person’s expense. “…They …serve ….their OWN belly…” (Romans 16:18 KJV).

A cheater will break ALL the ethical, moral, spiritual, or unwritten rules of conduct in their relationship with others if it gets them what they want. “..You rise at dawn and hurry to carry them out (cheating plots), simply because you have the power to do so. When you wanta piece of land, you find a way to seize it. When you want someone’s house,you take it by fraud and violence. You cheat a manof his property, stealing his family’s inheritance. …” (Micah 2:1-3 NLT).

It matters nothing to cheaters that what they want is obtained through deceit or dishonesty. “…Don’t do as the wicked do, and don’t followthe path of evildoers. Don’t even think about it don’t go that way. Turn away and keep moving.For evil people can’t sleep until they’ve done their evil deed for the day. They can’t rest until they’ve caused someone to stumble. They eat the food of wickedness and drink the wine of violence!”(Proverbs 4:14-17 NLT).

A cheater is commonly linked to infidelity. Infidelity, however, also refers to cheating, betrayal, disloyalty, thieving (stealing), robbing, or unfaithfulness. “…if you fail to keep your word, then you will have sinned against the Lord, and you may be sure that your sin will find you out…” (Numbers 32:23 NLT). “…You have also heard … ‘You must not break your vows; you must carry out the vows you make to the Lord…” (Matthew 5:33 NLT). “… to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin…” (James 4:17 KJV). “…Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, my brethren, YE HAVE DONE IT TO ME…” (Matthew 25:40 KJV).

A cheater doesn’t cheat ALL the time, but will rely on cheating when necessary to gain or sustain his or her dishonest advantage. After all, they are a CHEAT or CHEATER. “…They lie awake at night, hatching sinful plots. Their actions are never good. They make no attempt to turn from evil…” (Psalms 36:4 NLT).

A CHEATER CHEATS. They will CHEAT you out of respect, honor, dignity, true love, the truth, the ability to trust, and the innate right to dwell safely or peacefully in God’s world.

A cheater is ALWAYS dishonest. There is NOT a “little” dishonesty; dishonest “IS” dishonest. “…Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much…” (Luke 16:10 KJV).

 “…Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. The commandments “You shall not steal (cheat, rob),”… and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no harm to a neighbor…” (Romans 13:8-10 KJV).

“….But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people…” (Ephesians 5:3 KJV).

“…You know the commandments…. ‘you shall not steal (cheat, rob), …you shall not defraud (cheat)…”(Mark 10:19 KJV).

“…The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery …selfish ambition, dissensions  …and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God…” (Galatians 5:19-21 KJV).

“…Their actions are never good. …” (Psalms 36:4 NLT). “…Ye shall know them by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV).

Cheaters have unique fruit or traits that distinguish them from other people. Identifying a cheater can be a preventive from getting involved with one. “…Ye shall know them by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV).

I will mention some of the traits that are the most damaging and destructive to others:

Cheaters are emotional thieves and robbers

Cheaters are master manipulators.

Cheaters are liars or compulsive liars.

Cheaters are selfish, greedy, and make a practice of exploiting people.

Cheaters are never satisfied.

Cheaters are jealous thinking people are being dishonest like they are.

Cheaters don’t have all the traits mentioned above, if any, or maybe none so obvious, but they are ALL thieves and robbers. “…Their actions are never good. …” (Psalms 36:4 NLT).

Cheaters are thieves and robbers because they secretly and wrongfully steal or rob the emotional property of another person through dishonesty, lies, manipulation, seduction, or exploitation. “…They …serve ….their OWN belly…” (Romans 16:18 KJV).

A cheater is a thief, just like the devil, because he or she secretly steals the emotional health of another person. “…The thief (cheater) cometh not, but for to steal (take, rob, cheat, etc;), and to kill, and to destroy…” (John 10:10 KJV).

A cheater is a robber, just like the devil because he or she threatens to rob the emotional health of another person through deathly conduct and destructive behaviors. “…The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill (the other person’s  emotional health), and to destroy (the other person’s emotional health)…” (John 10:10 KJV).

Cheaters are not always readily obvious to their victims, but are often blatant to others on the outside looking in. What is a CHEATER?

A CHEATER CHEATS and not just through infidelity. A cheater is “ANYBODY” who USES dishonest behaviors, on any level (financially, emotionally, spiritually, or physically) in order to gain some selfish advantage. “…They …serve ….their OWN belly…” (Romans 16:18 KJV). AND ARE “…like wolves ravening the prey …to destroy souls, to get dishonest gain…” (Ezekiel 22:27 KJV).

A cheater gains his or her dishonest advantage by deliberately and intentionally deceiving, tricking, misleading, being sexual unfaithful, swindling, defrauding, and eluding others. “…Like wolves ravening the prey …to destroy souls, to get dishonest gain…” (Ezekiel 22:27 KJV).

A CHEATER CHEATS……

 

LUKEWARM MAKES THE BODY SICK ENOUGH TO SPUE IT OUT OF ITS MOUTH

LUKE WARM

THE SELF-INVENTED CONVERSION

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“…The flesh (ethical behavior) profiteth nothing…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…Human effort (ethical behavior) accomplishes nothing….” (John 6:63 NLT). “…If I bestow all my goods to feed the poor (ethical behavior), and if I give my body to be burned (ethical behavior), but have not love (God is LOVE and SPIRIT), IT PROFITETH ME NOTHING…” (1 Corinthians 13:2-3 ASV).

*

Luke finished the last “new members” class after thirteen weeks. He was officially a member of SON CITY ministries, which was a non-denominational church.

Luke had gone to an Ivy League school and had graduated summa cum laude with a 4.0+ GPA. After the new members classes, Luke developed such a passion for spiritual knowledge that the Pastor took a personal interest in him and began giving him spiritual resources from his private collection.

Before long, Luke Warm was headed to Princeton Theological Seminary in Princeton, New Jersey. The Pastor told him he would love Princeton’s theological library and was certain it would help satisfy his hunger for spiritual knowledge.

The whole time Luke Warm attended the seminary 100s of students enrolled year after year. Many of them were candidates for ministry, or an academic career, or some other theological field.

Luke Warm began to understand the teachings of the bible, the Atonement of Jesus Christ, and eternal life with God, the Father in Heaven. He learned them so well he could articulate them to others and prepare them for the blessings of the Christian life.

When Luke Warm returned home to Son City Ministries, four years later, the Pastor gave him a youth bible study class to teach. Luke grew more and more knowledgeable in the spiritual truths. He was even studying Greek and Hebrew.

His years in seminary didn’t just change what he knew about Jesus Christ, but it changed his perspective on religious life and his behavior.

Luke loved the scriptures and he was more than prepared to pass onto others what he’d learned. He loved getting together with the young people, listening to them share their faith, testimonies, and delving into the scriptures.

Luke was grateful for seminary and he believed it had blessed his life with new dreams. He gained a foundation of knowledge that helped others. This knowledge had also made him a part of these happy, advantaged, and successful people without the religious RIGAMAROLE.

Young people were coming to Luke’s bible study in groves and said his class was a safe place to openly discuss God.

The young people began calling him Luke the Duke of the Gospel, but “Brother DUKE” for short. The news spread about Luke’s teachings and bible class grew. The youth began reaching out to other young people and soon Luke’s bible study became a MOVEMENT.

The DUKE MOVEMENT began catching the attention of other churches locally and throughout the US. Luke found himself helping young people know Jesus, grow in their faith, share their faith, and study the scriptures.

By 1987 Luke became a licensed and ordained minister. Luke’s ordination took place in the new SON CITY ministries facility. The DUKE MOVEMENT became nationwide and was bringing in millions of dollars.

The youth were evangelizing by bringing their parents, siblings, friends, and other family members to Son City ministries.

Luke started to travel, but tried to be home for weekly bible studies. He kept up with others churches in order to advise them, see how they were doing, and if they needed help.

Quarterly Luke began to have conferences and follow-up meetings with other youth ministers. They bought Luke’s resources and teaching materials, which were now out on tape or video.

Eventually, as the ministry grew, Luke assigned another youth minister to teach his weekly bible study. He travelled nationally and internationally now. The DUKE MOVEMENT had plenty of volunteers and together they worked and decided on how to continue to MOVE the ministry forward.

Luke and several KEY people took the message of Jesus to young people around the globe. SON CITY ministries begin sponsoring international mission trips for the youth and adults.

Luke I. Warm moved from the DUKE MOVEMENT to full-time evangelism in the early 90s. To disassociation himself with the youth movement he began using his middle name Issachar as his first name and Luke as his middle name.

He was getting older and thought it time for him to move to a different area of ministry. So he decided to take some down time to write some books. He decided to use Issachar L Warm as his pen name.

The change wasn’t too hard for many. The youth continued to call him the DUKE, but others simply called him Minister Warm as usual. He resources, tapes, videos, and books sold millions.

Issachar L Warm felt like he was ready to get married, but had found no bride that had fit the bill. Church folk were always trying to set him up with their own daughters or someone else’s, but none had interest him.

Issachar wanted a special woman who would not only be the “perfect” Christian wife, but one who had a sense of humor, a little adventurous side, who was innovative, and who shared his wanderlust for life.

Not one of the females he’d encountered since Princeton had come close to being his ideal woman. Well, at least, not until he’d met Virtuous. Virtuous lived in a small development on the outskirts of town, near Hades. She was beautiful, petite, and short, but she was funny. Her face looked as though she was always smiling or had a mysteries secret.

Her skin looked as if it had been mixed with the riches and finest caramels and her eyes were twinkling lights of amber. When Issachar first met her, she was so shy she would hardly talk to him.

He was not interested initially and dismissed her as another goody two-shoe, church girl trying to impress him with her piety.

Though he wanted a Christian woman, many were too staunch, too phony, too rehearsed, and most of them lacked virtue. Virtuous, however, was sincerely pure and sweet. She was unexpected and after meeting her at the Farmer’s Market on North Neutral their second conversation peaked his interest.

It was then that Issachar decided she was his perfect woman. She was still shy, but she was humorous and wanted adventure like he did. She listened to and shared his ideals about innovation and travel.

She seemed so fascinated with his ideals and asked so many probing questions about his work, his family, and his personal interests. Their eyes met several times, they smiled at each other, and a special bond was formed in that moment.

Six months later Issachar and Virtuous were married. He was 32 years old. They were happy as they began to bond and connect as husband and wife. They learned what each liked and didn’t like. Virtuous fulfilled Luke’s every fantasy. He thought she was perfect, without faults, and his ideal woman.

Virtuous was beautiful and utterly devoted, which was everything he’d wanted. She would NEVER let him down and he’d NEVER let her down.

Luke SAW her awesome personality, which made him want her and need her more than anything or anyone else. Virtuous would say “...Izzy, I’m not perfect, Luke. I human with flaws like everyone of else. You’ll see. I wander will you still love me then?....”

Luke would say, “...Oh, Virtuous, my love, you’re perfect. There is nothing you can do to change my mind...” Without knowing it, Luke had put Virtuous on a pedestal and truly thought she could do no wrong or make no mistakes.

It was a lot to ask of any human being and Luke was asking her to be his fantasy of perfection, whatever that meant, in his eyes. Even on their honeymoon his young wife felt the BURDEN of his unrealistic expectations of her.

Already Virtuous was feeling deprived of being normal, being herself, or simply being human around Luke.

He praised Virtuous so often it started to become meaningless, even on their honeymoon. It sounded contrived and automatic, because sometimes he’d compliment her when she didn’t deserve it, or it wasn’t justified or earned, or she hadn’t been worthy of it.

Nonetheless, Virtuous initially dismissed her thoughts and berated herself of making a big deal of nothing. Her husband was only trying to love her. She was getting, generously, what other women whined about their men or husbands.

But a year later, Virtuous was still feeling Luke’s praises might be empty, but she didn’t quite know why. In the beginning of their relationship Virtuous bought into all his charm and praise, which made her lose sight of her own humanity.

She wanted to be the woman of her husband’s fantasy, but the growing fear within her heart, knew she couldn’t and she wondered would Izzy (short of Issachar), which she called him, would be gracious to her.

Virtuous got caught up in Issachar’s view of her too and she liked being his perfect woman, but a part of her knew he had unrealistic expectations of her and one day she would NO LONGER be his perfect wife or woman.

Nevertheless, Luke had a deep connection with Virtuous he felt was magical and no one, not even her, could tell him any different. Luke thought it was emotional because she made him “feel” something.

It was this “feeling” that gave him the distorted opinion of her. Virtuous was just a young woman. She was beautiful, inside and outside, but she wasn’t this perfect woman. Luke had put her on a pedestal; end of discussion.

When Virtuous’ father had spoken to Luke before the wedding he’d told him his daughter was not perfect and putting her on a pedestal would be dangerous and harmful to them both one day.

Luke didn’t listen. He told her father about all the positive qualities Virtuous had, which her father already knew, and thought it was good that his future son-in-law knew it too.

However, Luke was in denial about his daughter’s flaws, which meant he didn’t know Virtuous at all. She would be limited, in the marriage, to HIS FANTASY of her ONLY.

Virtuous father SAW how Luke idealized his daughter and it wasn’t because they were newly in love. Not only did Luke admire his daughter’s many virtues, enjoy her company, and was happy he’d found her, but he held her in such high regard he acted as if she wasn’t human too!

Luke was so in AWE of his FANTASY image of his daughter, he was concerned that when Luke discovered Virtuous was only human, he would not have the capacity to show her grace.

Luke accepted ALL of Virtuous positive traits, but had not been challenged by her natural human flaws. Putting Virtuous on a pedestal was NOT GOOD and when she FELL and she would...her father wondered “...what then...”

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A CHOICE IS A DECISION "YOU" MAKE ALL BY YOURSELF

 

ONCE SAVED ALWAYS SAVED?

ARE YOU SURE?

WILLFULLY DEPARTING FROM GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT,

IS A CHOICE OR A DECISION YOU MAKE ALL BY YOURSELF .

 “... IN LATTER TIMES “SOME” SHALL [CHOOSE OR DECIDE TO] ...DEPART FROM the [CHRISTIAN] ... FAITH !!!!...” (1 Timothy 4:1-3 KJV). “...Take heed, BRETHREN, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God...” (Hebrews 3:12 KJV). “...If ye continue in the faith ... and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel ...” (Colossians 1:22-23 KJV).

*  

        “... I hate divorce!” says the Lord, the God of Israel. “…” (Malachi 2:16 NLT).  Divorces, separations, broken MARRIAGES are all PARALELTIC VISIONS OR DESCRIPTIONS OF CHRIST’s ONCE, intimate, covenant relationship to certain believers who have willfully and voluntarily divorced him, ABANDONED HIM, FORSAKEN HIM,  OR HAVE BLATANTLY BROKEN THEIR VOWS TO HIM, fallen away from him, and departed from him. “... IN LATTER TIMES “SOME” SHALL [CHOOSE OR DECIDE TO] ...DEPART FROM the FAITH !!!!...” (1 Timothy 4:1-3 KJV). “…[MY PEOPLE] ... broke [THEIR] ... covenant ..[WITH ME], though I (GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT) loved them as a husband loves his wife,” says the Lord…” (Jeremiah 31:32 NASB).

There is nothing wrong with the commitment, loyalty, or faithfulness, to the vows and promises, God makes to his covenant people. HIS PEOPLE ARE “SECURE” IN HIS “IMMUTABLE” UNCHANGING, UNWAVERING LOVE FOR THEM! “…If we are faithless, he remains faithful…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NIV). “…As many as are the promises of God,.. in Him they are yes …also … Amen …” (2 Corinthians 1:20 NASB). “…Not one of the good promises which the Lord had made … failed; all came to pass…” (Joshua 21:45 NASB). God is “…watching over [his]… word to perform it…” (Jeremiah 1:12 NASB). “…So shall [his]… word be that goeth forth out of [his]… mouth: it shall not return unto [him]… void, but it shall accomplish that which [God]… please[s], and it shall prosper in the thing whereto [God]… sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV).

HIS WORD SAYS: “…I am with you always, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV). God will “…Never leave nor forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5 KJV).  “…Behold, I am with … [you] and will keep … [you] whithersoever [you]… goest…I will not leave [you] ..." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

There is, however, SOMETHING terribly wrong with the commitment, loyalty, and faithfulness, to the vows and promises, some of God’s people have made to HIM, the Holy Spirit. GOD IS “NOT” SECURE IN THE LOVE OF HIS PEOPLE; THEY CAN FREELY “LEAVE” HIM ANY TIME THEY SO CHOOSE. “...[YOU]… FORGOT all about ME,” says the Lord…” (Hosea 2:13 NLT). “…for years on end my people have FORGOTten ME…” (Jeremiah 2:32 NLT). “…They ABANDONED ME and did not obey my word….”(JEREMIAH 16:11 NLT). “…They ABANDONED the Lord… they turned their backs on him….” (2 Chronicles 29:6 NLT

Many have willfully and voluntarily departed from God, the Holy Spirit, or separated from him, or divorced him, or forgotten about him, or forsaken him, or have blatantly broken their vows to him.“…We will continueto live as WE WANT TO, stubbornly following our own evil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT). “…They (God’s OWN people) KEPT DOING WHATEVER THEY WANTED, following the stubborn desires of their [OWN] evil hearts…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

THEY maintain a “FORM” or an appearance of being in an intimate, covenant relationship with God (performances of godliness) by DOING CHRISTIAN DEEDS or making Christian GESTURES,  talking Christian talk with Christian clichés WHILE at THE SAME TIME SERVING THEIR TRUE MASTER; THEIR “OWN” unrepentant mindset“… men shall be lovers of their own selves, … unholy… Having a form (practice) of godliness, but denying (rejecting, negating) the POWER (the indwelling Holy power REQUIRED to live a true Christian life) ... from such turn away. … men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith. ….  evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived…”(2 Timothy 3:1-13 KJV). “…The one who doeswhat is sinful is ...of the devil… …” (1 John 3:8 NIV). “…They …serve ….their OWN belly (appetites)…” (Romans 16:18 KJV).

“… ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness… ” (Matthew 23:27 KJV). “…Ye shall know them by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV).

“... Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness ...  the one who practices sin is of the devil ...  No one who is born of God practices sin, because His seed abides in him; and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of GOD..” (1 John 3:7-10 NASB).

“... Everyone who sins is breaking God’s law, for all sin is contrary to the law of God. And you know that Jesus came to take away our sins, and there is no sin in him. Anyone who continues to live in him (ABIDE WITH HIM) will not sin. But anyone who keeps on sinning does not know him ... who he is. Dear children, don’t let anyone deceive you about this: When people do what is right, it shows that they are righteous, even as Christ is righteous. But when people keep on sinning, it shows that they belong to the devil, who has been sinning since the beginning. But the Son of God came to destroy the works of the devil. Those who have been born into God’s family do not make a practice of sinning, because God’s [SPIRITUAL] ... life is in them. So they can’t keep on sinning, because they are children of God. So now we can tell who are children of God and who are children of the devil. Anyone(NO EXCEPTIONS) who does not live righteously and does not love other believers does not belong to God...” (1 John 3:7-10 NLT).

The fallen and departed are successfully fooling everybody around them and at the same time, losing their soul to hell. “…What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world (fool other humans with outward phoniness), and lose his (her) own soul?...” (Mark 8:36 KJV). “...God SEES NOT as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD LOOKS AT THE HEART…”(1 Samuel 16:7 NASB). “…No one needed… to tell him (God) about human nature, for he knew what was in each person’s heart…” (John 2:24-25 NLT). “…[The] ...Lord (God), which knowest the heartsof all men…” (Acts 1:24 KJV). “… He watches everyone closely, examining every person on earth. The Lord examines both the righteous and the wicked…” (Psalm 11:4-5 NLT).

Many BELIEVERS quote the cliché that “ONCE SAVED; “ALWAYS” SAVED”, and many USE the following scriptures to SUPPORT their CLAIM: “... In Him ,.. you WERE SEALED ...WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT OF PROMISE.…” (Ephesians 1 NLT).  “... Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption...” (Ephesians 4:30 NASB). “...after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise...” (Ephesians 1:13 KJV). “... Do not quench (extinguish, put out, remove, cut off) the [Holy]... Spirit...” (1 Thessalonians 5:19 NASB).

The WORD of GOD “ALSO” says SIN SEPARATES YOU from God, the “HOLY” Spirit and his GRACE. “…Your INIQUITIES … separated … you and your God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV).  Even through, “... In Him,.., you WERE SEALED IN HIM WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT OF PROMISE.…” (Ephesians 1 NLT).  YET, “... the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit,....” (Hebrews 4:12 NASB).

“... Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness ...  the one who practices sin is of the devil ...  anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of GOD...” (1 John 3:7-10 NASB). You ARE sealed, but the WORD can CUT asunder the SEAL between the SOUL AND SPIRIT when it TELLS you “SIN” will put a separation between YOU and God. The PRACTICE of SIN will CUT you OFF from God, the Holy Spirit and cut asunder the SEAL.“…You have been cut off from Christ! You have fallen away from God’s GRACE…” (Galatians 5:4 NLT). “…Your INIQUITIES … separated … you and your God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV).

God NEVER changes. “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). “…It’s YOUR SINS that … [will] ...cut you offfrom God…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT). . “…Your INIQUITIES … separated … you and your God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…what fellowshiphath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ (the Word of TRUTH) with Belial (the DEVIL or Father of LIES)? Or what part hath he that believeth (depends upon God) with an infidel (one who doesn’t depend upon God)?” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV).

 “... In Him ... you WERE SEALED ...WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT OF PROMISE.…” (Ephesians 1 NLT).  However, “... the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit,....” (Hebrews 4:12 NASB). “…you have been cut offfrom Christ! You have fallen away from God’s GRACE…” (Galatians 5:4 NLT).

Two oxen can be joined together with a wooden bar called a yoke and together they pull whatever load they are given as a team.

However if one oxen is stronger, taller, weaker, shorter, smaller, or bigger than the other oxen they will be unequally yoked.

If the oxen are unequally yoked they will not be able to fairly share the load or finish the task they’ve been given. The two oxen can end up being completely off balance or going around in redundant circles. “…Thou shalt not plow with an ox and an ass together…” (Deuteronomy 22:10 KJV).

The bible says, “…Be ye not unequally yoked together.with unbelievers...” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV). The fallen or departed has moved to the opposite team, away from God, the Holy Spirit, which means they have NOTHING in common any more. “…What part hath righteousness with unrighteousness?...” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV).

We are NOT talking about MISTAKES, STRUGGLES, OR WEAKNESSES. We are talking about people who have willfully and voluntarily DECIDED TO DEPART from God and LIVE AN ongoing LIFESTYLE of PRACTICING SIN.

A lifestyle of practicing sin WILL ALWAYS CREATE a separation or BARRIER between YOU and HOLINESS. “... Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness ...  the one who practices sin is of the devil ...  anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of GOD...” (1 John 3:7-10 NASB).  “... the word of God...piercing ....to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit....” (Hebrews 4:12 NASB).

HOLINESS can NOT and will NOT “EVER” MIX with SIN. SIN and HOLINESS SEPARATES; just like oil and water. “…It’s YOUR SINS that have cut you off from God (who is HOLY)…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT).

“…[ONLY the ONE who remains] ... joined unto the Lord (Jesus) is ONE Spirit… [united with the HOLY God]” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).  “... in Him (not outside of him or apart from him) there is no sin. No one who abides in Him sins; no one who sins ... knows Him... [IN HIM he] ...is able to keep youfrom falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy ... [Therefore,] ... little children, make sure no one deceives you; the one who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous;  the one who practices sin is of the devil;...” (1 John 3:7-10 NASB & Jude 1:24 KJV).

“…what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ (the Word of TRUTH) with Belial (the DEVIL or Father of LIES)? Or what part hath he that believeth (depends upon God) with an infidel (one who doesn’t depend upon God)?” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV).

Jesus miraculously enables the HOLY God and SINFUL mankind to JOIN or UNITE together in an intimate, covenant relationship and become ONE SPIRIT. “…What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate…” (Mark 10:9 NASB). “…Love … is the perfect BOND of unity...” (Colossians 3:14 NASB). “…He that is JOINED unto the Lord is ONE Spirit…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “…Let no one split apart what God has joined together…” (Mark 10:9 NLT). However, “... the word of God...[is powerful enough] ....to  [divide] asunder [the] ...soul and spirit....” (Hebrews 4:12 NASB).“…The things which are impossible with men … [are] ...POSSIBLE [with God]…” (Luke 18:27 KJV).  “…I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV).

When there is a BARRIER, made by sin, it separates the natural realm from the supernatural realm and it creates an impenetrable chasm. “... And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm (barrier) has been set in place, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us…” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB).

This chasm separates you from God, cuts you off from him, and he can’t even hear you since he is in another realm. HIS Holiness WON’T allow him to show favor with SIN of any kind. “…[God, the Holy Spirit] can not look on wickedness with favor…” (Habakkuk 1:13 NASB). “…[God, the Holy Spirit’s]... eyes are too pure to approve evil…” (Habakkuk 1:13 NASB). “…Because of YOUR SINS, [God, the Holy Spirit has] … turned away and can… not listen anymore [because he is in the spiritual realm and YOU are not]…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT).

HOLINESS simply can NOT bond, MIX, or be yoked together with SIN. The HOLY God desired to be yoked together with mankind, but SIN creates a chasm. “…Be ye NOT unequally yoked together with unbelievers for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? Or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV).

Remember the biblical story of the poor man and the rich man? “…The poor man died and was carried away by the angels to Abraham’s bosom; and the rich man also died and was buried. In Hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torment, and saw Abraham far away and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried out and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus so that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool off my tongue, for I am in agony in this flame.’ But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that during your life you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus bad things; but now he is being comforted here, and you are in agony. And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm(barrier) has been set in place, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us…” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB).

Without Jesus, there “WILL” ALWAYS remain an impenetrable BARRIER or CHASM between mankind (SIN/oil) and God (HOLY/water). “... You have been cut off from Christ! You have fallen away from God’s GRACE…” (Galatians 2:21 NLT). “... APART FROM [Christ]... you can do nothing  …” (John 15:1-11 NASB).However, because of LOVE and GRACE: “…There is … one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).  ABIDE IN HIM ALWAYS, BECAUSE, “… apart from [HIM[, you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).“… [You] … can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth … [you]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “…It is God who works in [you]… to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). Jesus “IS” and will “ALWAYS” be the WAY to ABIDE with God, the Holy Spirit! Jesus saith…I am the way, the truth, and the life…” (John 14:6 KJV).

God RECONCILES you and BLESSES you with UNTOLD GRACE through salvation, but you can willfully and voluntarily CHOSE to DEPART from the intimate, covenant relationship at ANY TIME, but “NOT” without CONSEQUENCE! “… For it is impossible to bring back to repentance those who were once enlightened—thosewho haveexperienced the good things of heaven and shared in the Holy Spirit,  who have tasted the goodness of the Word of God and the power of the age to come— and whothen turn away from God. It is impossible to bring such peopleback to repentance;by rejecting the Son of God, they themselves are nailing him to the cross once again and holding him up to public shame. …” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT). “... IN LATTER TIMES “SOME” SHALL DEPART FROM the FAITH!!!!...” (1 Timothy 4:1-3 KJV).

There are 5 infallible, biblical TRUTHS that provide PROOF that Hebrews 6:4-8 is TALKING about “THOSE” who, at one time, KNEW God, the Holy Spirit, INTIMATELY and have DEPARTED or FALLEN from his GRACE. “…those who were once enlightened—and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were partakers of the Holy Spirit,  and have tasted the good Word of God and the power of the world to come …” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

1. “THOSE”were “enlightened” with the Gospel. 2. Jesus Christ is evidently the “heavenly gift” accepted, in the heart, of THOSEas the atoning sacrifice. 3. THOSEwere “partakers (participants) with the Holy Ghost  which comes to dwell within people. 4. THOSEhave also “tasted the GOOD Word of God” through revelation knowledge, and; 5. THOSEhave “tasted the powers of the world to come” first, through the confirming work of the Holy Spirit in the miracle of salvation and then through one or more of the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

 “... It is impossible to bring such people back to repentance; by rejecting the Son of God, they themselvesare nailing him to the cross once again and holding him up to public shame. …” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT). “... IN LATTER TIMES “SOME” SHALL DEPART FROM the FAITH!!!!...” (1Timothy 4:1-3 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit doesn’t EVER want, desire, or choose to lose you (John 6:39) nor will he LET anyone take you away from him (John 10:28). He is in control, but NEVER controlling or forceful. You FREELY choose to depend upon the POWER of his indwelling Holy Spirit to KEEP you. “... [To believers] ... who are kept by the POWER of God through faith (dependence upon him) unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time...” (1 Peter 1:5 KJV).

It is the indwelling Holy Spirit that saves you, sustains you, empowers you, produces fruit in and through you, and keeps you from falling “WHEN” you choose to depend upon the POWER of God’s Word. “... Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy...” (Jude 1:24 KJV).

If you CHOOSE to willfully and voluntarily depend upon HIS POWER to keep you by STAYING and ABIDING with God, the Holy Spirit, he will keep you strong to the end! “... And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom... “  (2 Timothy 4:18 KJV). “…HE (the indwelling Holy Spirit) “WILL” KEEP YOU STRONG to the end…” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT). “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “... But the Lordis faithful, who shall establish you, and keep you from evil...”(2 Thessalonians 3:3 KJV).

We started this brief discussion on the cliché that “ONCE THEY ARE SAVED; “ALWAYS” SAVED” based, particularly, on the following scripture to SUPPORT their CLAIM: “... In Him,.., you WERE SEALED ... WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT OF PROMISE.…” (Ephesians 1 NLT). 

But we SAW two things: GOD’s WORD or HIS TRUTH can cut asunder the SEAL between SOUL and SPIRIT and that “SOME” will decide or choose to depart from the Christian faith. “... the word of God...piercing ....to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit....” (Hebrews 4:12 NASB). “... IN LATTER TIMES “SOME” SHALL DEPART FROM the FAITH!!!!...” (1 Timothy 4:1-3 KJV). “...Take heed, BRETHREN (fellow believers), lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God...” (Hebrews 3:12 KJV). “... For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them...” (2 Peter 5:4 KJV). “...If ye [choose] ... continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard...” (Colossians 1:22-23 KJV).

The above Scriptures are talking to Christians, Believers, Brothers and Sisters-in-Christ, the church, the body of Christ, or THOSE.

Therefore, the bottom line to “ONCE SAVED ALWAYS SAVED” IS this: “...HE (SHE) THAT “SHALL” (WILL) ENDURE UNTO THE END SHALL (WILL) BE SAVED...” (Matthew 24:13 KJV).

 ETERNAL LIFE IS THE DESTINATION, BUT ENDURING WITH JESUS, WHO IS THE ONLY“WAY,” OR IS THE ONLY “PATH” TO THE DESTINATION!

DEPARTING FROM THE “WAY” IS A DEPARTURE FROM THE “PATH” TO THE DESTINATION (ETERNAL LIFE).

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