Pensacola Helene Jefferson's Blog, page 23

CHA;PTER 1 LUKE ISSACHAR WARM

 

CHAPTER 1

LUKE WARM

THE INTRODUCTION TO THE MAN

 “...because thou art lukewarm...” (Revelations 3:16a).

*

 Luke Warm had grown up in the Houston suburdia, nice neighborhood, pleasant neighbors, and decent schools. He’d gone on field trips, to operas, museums, the zoo, and multiple plays.

Luke was fond of the arts, especially music and drama. Luke Warm sat backstage beaming. His performance was so good his drama teacher said she could hardly distinguish between him and the character he played. That compliment made Luke feel proud.

The Drama Department had performed Shakespeare’s “a Midsummer Night’s Dream” play. Luke Warm had made the character his OWN self-invention and the audience had given him a standing ovation.

Luke had played the character Puck. Puck, at least he thought, was the most important character in the play. Puck was mischievous, witty, a prankster and a blunderer, but he was also spirited and magical.

Luke had invented his own version of Puck by adding the needed humor, the appropriate language, and his own touch of fairy-ness.

Luke had to wear a lot of make-up because Puck was NOT to be portrayed as handsome or debonair. In fact, one of the other fairies called him a “hobogoblin,” which meant he was not as good-looking as the other fairies.

Luke Warm was no Puck, so the pervasiveness of deceptionwhen performing a character, certainly, could hide the reality of one’s true appearance.

Luke Issachar Warm was giftedly handsome with Hercules-like hair, thick eyebrows, a militant nose, perfectly defined face, muscular, but slender body, oozing with masculinity, and he moved with the grace and power of a lion.

People told him there was a mysterious aura about him and whenever he was around, they said, they could feel his presence. Luke thought he was GIFTED with some inner quality or resilient psyche that enabled him to perform the ambiguities, perplexities, humor, or magic of any character.

The role of Puck was the role that started Luke Warm’s journey. He had done his OWN self-invention of the Puck character which meant, for a few moments, he had to be brilliant at becoming someone else.

Luke had made the audience believe he was Puck through his OWN self-invention of the character. He saw how receptive they were through his cultivated persona of Puck.

It also made Luke believe he could become anyone he wanted to become. He could participate in society in a positive way, any way he chose, and it could bring enjoyment to others.

He’d been in every school play since he was a freshman and he had become attuned to the requirements of new identities through the self-invention of his characters.

Luke had enjoyed many of the characters he’d played and got to know them as much as possible. This was his last play before heading to college. So much had changed in his life and he couldn’t believe it was 1978 already. He felt a twinge of nostalgia as he thought about the end of this era of his life.

Nonetheless, he was ready. Luke was certain he’d learned how to present himself to others and decided he wouldn’t limit himself to a “fixed” personality as he headed out into the world.

Luke Warm could become ANYONE he wanted to become. He knew how to present his best self. He was often told he was gracious, connected well with others, was a good listener, had a good memory, especially with people’s names, was diplomatic, and was giftedly articulate. Luke had a way of making people feel important. 

Luke was good looking, but he had a way of highlighting everything, he thought was good, about himself from his hairstyle, to his fashion, his conversation, and his own personal, sexy swag.

When Luke I. Warm walked into the room he became center stage whether he wanted to be or not. He was confident in the spotlight, but he was an approachable and relatable people person.

He wasn’t perfect and had his flaws, but he had a way of making people focus on his virtues; not his vices. People, male and female, gravitated to Luke. He really was a source of positive with his smiles, charming personality, and golden attitude.

He was “THAT” one person you met in life that lit up the room with his whole being. Not only was Luke the number one drama student in High School, but off stage he could tell stories that would keep his fellow students on the edge on their seats with suspense and laughter.

Luke I. Warm was LIVING ART and as a youngster, he was already more charming than he knew.

Just as Luke Warm continually re-invented himself through the many characters he played, he re-invented himself to suit the lifestyle he’d dreamed of having only day too.

Luke Warm had grown up in Houston and in the Baptist church. His family had lived there for years, but recently, his parents, his five siblings, some aunts, uncles, and cousins had all migrated, together, to Son City, Texas.

While Luke was away at college between 1978 and 1982 his family had gotten involved in the charismatic movement, and had gone from being Baptist to non-denominational.

Luke didn’t go with them to Son City, Texas but decided to crouch on Neutral Avenue instead, which was one of the longest streets in the world. It was actually the border between Son City, Texas and Hades, Texas.

If you lived on his street, it was either North Neutral Avenue, South Neutral Avenue, or simply Neutral Avenue.

Luke lived on Neutral Avenue with other folk who weren’t for the Son City lifestyle, but wasn’t against it either. On the other hand, they felt that way about Hades too.

He visited his family often. All he had to do was turn right out of his driveway, go seven miles, turn left onto the freeway, and he would be in Son City fifteen minutes later.

Luke’s grandparents had left his father an inheritance recently, which happened to be in Son City, Texas and consisted of acres and acres of land, plus a profitable business. There was a huge mansion on it with several guest houses, but Luke was undecided about whether he wanted to live in Son City or Hades, so he crouched on Neutral for the time being, which was on the border of both places.

If you lived on the west side of Neutral, your backyard faced Hades, Texas. If you lived on the east side of Neutral, your backyard faced Son City, Texas. Luke SAW the sun RISE in the east, where Son City, Texas was, every morning.

Luke did accept his father’s offer to work in the family business though, but he refused to change his opinion about living in Son City or Charismatic Christian-ville, as he called it, in spite of his family’s urging.

Luke was experiencing financial difficulty at times, but he was too stubborn to ask for help. He wanted to do what he wanted to do and he simply refused to do anything else. He’d had huge arguments with his family, but he still didn’t budge.

Luke was famous, in his family, for his stubborn resistance and his refusal to accept defeat, big or small. His grandfather, who he called Poppy, said he was too stubborn for his own good.

Poppy was given the honor of giving Luke his middle name. He was almost seven years old before his parents changed his name legally from Luke Warm to Luke Issachar Warm.

Luke asked his Poppy why he’d chosen that name and he said “...It is a rarely used Hebrew name I found in the family ancestry and I thought it fit you perfect...” Luke liked his middle name.

Poppy told him that he and “this” ancestor exhibited the same kind of qualities. Luke didn’t agree with his family accesment of him. His wasn’t stubborn he was just passionate, decisive, had his “own” personal convictions, persevered, and stood his ground.

Poppy did say something that angered him once, “...Luke its okay to be stubborn for the right reasons, but not just to get something your way. You can’t self-invent everything to your liking....”

Poppy was his favorite family member. When he was younger, Poppy coached the little league team Luke was on. He always complimented Luke on his persistence, focus, and drive, but he cautioned him not to let those things blind him.

One day his little league team lost and Poppy said, “...Luke you were so focused on WINNING “your” way...you lost your team the game...” Luke didn’t agree with his grandfather and told him, “...Poppy, you’re getting old and don’t know what you’re talking about. Had YOU listened to me we would have won...”

Luke got the whole team to side with him against his Poppy. His grandfather quit coaching his team after that and the two of them weren’t as close for a while.

However, Luke was determined to do everything to win his grandfather back, so he set out to be the best grandson ever. He thought he’d succeeded and had changed his Poppy's mind about him, but he hadn’t. On his deathbed his grandfather said, “...Luke, I love you, but you will never understand what I’ve tried to teach you...until you truly surrender to God...”

Poppy KNEW Luke. If Luke was honest, living on Neutral was hard, and if he surrendered like Poppy said maybe he’d go ahead to Son City with the rest of his family.

The charismatic movement had changed them. He had to admit he began to long for and desire the same life his family was enjoying, but without going through all the religious RIGAMAROLE they’ve been trying to present to him.

When he’d hang out with them, they were so restful and peaceful and he could clearly witness the advantages they had in their new Christian lifestyle.

His family was actually getting along with each other and being loving toward one another. He wanted to share that with them.

His family had even gotten a new set of friends, too, that seemed loving, sincere, generous, on one accord, and enjoyed serving one another.

Out of six children, Luke was the fifth child and they were always fighting when they were younger. Yet, he noticed his siblings, their spouses, and children were happy, singing, playing together, was living a more orderly life, and were genuine getting along. They had become a real, close knit family.

Luke Warm wanted that life and the advantages it seemed to afford his family and “that” group of people. If he had to live in this wicked world, he wanted to be like the Son City people in east Texas. Luke I. Warm had an ideal......

 WHOLE NOVEL COMING SOON!!

DR PENSACOLA H. JEFFERSON

 

 

CHAPTER 1 LUKE WARM THE INTRODUCTION TO THE MAN “...be...

 

CHAPTER 1

LUKE WARM

THE INTRODUCTION TO THE MAN

 “...because thou art lukewarm...” (Revelations 3:16a).

*

 Luke Warm had grown up in the Houston suburdia, nice neighborhood, pleasant neighbors, and decent schools. He’d gone on field trips, to operas, museums, the zoo, and multiple plays.

Luke was fond of the arts, especially music and drama. Luke Warm sat backstage beaming. His performance was so good his drama teacher said she could hardly distinguish between him and the character he played. That compliment made Luke feel proud.

The Drama Department had performed Shakespeare’s “a Midsummer Night’s Dream” play. Luke Warm had made the character his OWN self-invention and the audience had given him a standing ovation.

Luke had played the character Puck. Puck, at least he thought, was the most important character in the play. Puck was mischievous, witty, a prankster and a blunderer, but he was also spirited and magical.

Luke had invented his own version of Puck by adding the needed humor, the appropriate language, and his own touch of fairy-ness.

Luke had to wear a lot of make-up because Puck was NOT to be portrayed as handsome or debonair. In fact, one of the other fairies called him a “hobogoblin,” which meant he was not as good-looking as the other fairies.

Luke Warm was no Puck, so the pervasiveness of deceptionwhen performing a character, certainly, could hide the reality of one’s true appearance.

Luke Issachar Warm was giftedly handsome with Hercules-like hair, thick eyebrows, a militant nose, perfectly defined face, muscular, but slender body, oozing with masculinity, and he moved with the grace and power of a lion.

People told him there was a mysterious aura about him and whenever he was around, they said, they could feel his presence. Luke thought he was GIFTED with some inner quality or resilient psyche that enabled him to perform the ambiguities, perplexities, humor, or magic of any character.

The role of Puck was the role that started Luke Warm’s journey. He had done his OWN self-invention of the Puck character which meant, for a few moments, he had to be brilliant at becoming someone else.

Luke had made the audience believe he was Puck through his OWN self-invention of the character. He saw how receptive they were through his cultivated persona of Puck.

It also made Luke believe he could become anyone he wanted to become. He could participate in society in a positive way, any way he chose, and it could bring enjoyment to others.

He’d been in every school play since he was a freshman and he had become attuned to the requirements of new identities through the self-invention of his characters.

Luke had enjoyed many of the characters he’d played and got to know them as much as possible. This was his last play before heading to college. So much had changed in his life and he couldn’t believe it was 1978 already. He felt a twinge of nostalgia as he thought about the end of this era of his life.

Nonetheless, he was ready. Luke was certain he’d learned how to present himself to others and decided he wouldn’t limit himself to a “fixed” personality as he headed out into the world.

Luke Warm could become ANYONE he wanted to become. He knew how to present his best self. He was often told he was gracious, connected well with others, was a good listener, had a good memory, especially with people’s names, was diplomatic, and was giftedly articulate. Luke had a way of making people feel important. 

Luke was good looking, but he had a way of highlighting everything, he thought was good, about himself from his hairstyle, to his fashion, his conversation, and his own personal, sexy swag.

When Luke I. Warm walked into the room he became center stage whether he wanted to be or not. He was confident in the spotlight, but he was an approachable and relatable people person.

He wasn’t perfect and had his flaws, but he had a way of making people focus on his virtues; not his vices. People, male and female, gravitated to Luke. He really was a source of positive with his smiles, charming personality, and golden attitude.

He was “THAT” one person you met in life that lit up the room with his whole being. Not only was Luke the number one drama student in High School, but off stage he could tell stories that would keep his fellow students on the edge on their seats with suspense and laughter.

Luke I. Warm was LIVING ART and as a youngster, he was already more charming than he knew.

Just as Luke Warm continually re-invented himself through the many characters he played, he re-invented himself to suit the lifestyle he’d dreamed of having only day too.

Luke Warm had grown up in Houston and in the Baptist church. His family had lived there for years, but recently, his parents, his five siblings, some aunts, uncles, and cousins had all migrated, together, to Son City, Texas.

While Luke was away at college between 1978 and 1982 his family had gotten involved in the charismatic movement, and had gone from being Baptist to non-denominational.

Luke didn’t go with them to Son City, Texas but decided to crouch on Neutral Avenue instead, which was one of the longest streets in the world. It was actually the border between Son City, Texas and Hades, Texas.

If you lived on his street, it was either North Neutral Avenue, South Neutral Avenue, or simply Neutral Avenue.

Luke lived on Neutral Avenue with other folk who weren’t for the Son City lifestyle, but wasn’t against it either. On the other hand, they felt that way about Hades too.

He visited his family often. All he had to do was turn right out of his driveway, go seven miles, turn left onto the freeway, and he would be in Son City fifteen minutes later.

Luke’s grandparents had left his father an inheritance recently, which happened to be in Son City, Texas and consisted of acres and acres of land, plus a profitable business. There was a huge mansion on it with several guest houses, but Luke was undecided about whether he wanted to live in Son City or Hades, so he crouched on Neutral for the time being, which was on the border of both places.

If you lived on the west side of Neutral, your backyard faced Hades, Texas. If you lived on the east side of Neutral, your backyard faced Son City, Texas. Luke SAW the sun RISE in the east, where Son City, Texas was, every morning.

Luke did accept his father’s offer to work in the family business though, but he refused to change his opinion about living in Son City or Charismatic Christian-ville, as he called it, in spite of his family’s urging.

Luke was experiencing financial difficulty at times, but he was too stubborn to ask for help. He wanted to do what he wanted to do and he simply refused to do anything else. He’d had huge arguments with his family, but he still didn’t budge.

Luke was famous, in his family, for his stubborn resistance and his refusal to accept defeat, big or small. His grandfather, who he called Poppy, said he was too stubborn for his own good.

Poppy was given the honor of giving Luke his middle name. He was almost seven years old before his parents changed his name legally from Luke Warm to Luke Issachar Warm.

Luke asked his Poppy why he’d chosen that name and he said “...It is a rarely used Hebrew name I found in the family ancestry and I thought it fit you perfect...” Luke liked his middle name.

Poppy told him that he and “this” ancestor exhibited the same kind of qualities. Luke didn’t agree with his family accesment of him. His wasn’t stubborn he was just passionate, decisive, had his “own” personal convictions, persevered, and stood his ground.

Poppy did say something that angered him once, “...Luke its okay to be stubborn for the right reasons, but not just to get something your way. You can’t self-invent everything to your liking....”

Poppy was his favorite family member. When he was younger, Poppy coached the little league team Luke was on. He always complimented Luke on his persistence, focus, and drive, but he cautioned him not to let those things blind him.

One day his little league team lost and Poppy said, “...Luke you were so focused on WINNING “your” way...you lost your team the game...” Luke didn’t agree with his grandfather and told him, “...Poppy, you’re getting old and don’t know what you’re talking about. Had YOU listened to me we would have won...”

Luke got the whole team to side with him against his Poppy. His grandfather quit coaching his team after that and the two of them weren’t as close for a while.

However, Luke was determined to do everything to win his grandfather back, so he set out to be the best grandson ever. He thought he’d succeeded and had changed his Poppy's mind about him, but he hadn’t. On his deathbed his grandfather said, “...Luke, I love you, but you will never understand what I’ve tried to teach you...until you truly surrender to God...”

Poppy KNEW Luke. If Luke was honest, living on Neutral was hard, and if he surrendered like Poppy said maybe he’d go ahead to Son City with the rest of his family.

The charismatic movement had changed them. He had to admit he began to long for and desire the same life his family was enjoying, but without going through all the religious RIGAMAROLE they’ve been trying to present to him.

When he’d hang out with them, they were so restful and peaceful and he could clearly witness the advantages they had in their new Christian lifestyle.

His family was actually getting along with each other and being loving toward one another. He wanted to share that with them.

His family had even gotten a new set of friends, too, that seemed loving, sincere, generous, on one accord, and enjoyed serving one another.

Out of six children, Luke was the fifth child and they were always fighting when they were younger. Yet, he noticed his siblings, their spouses, and children were happy, singing, playing together, was living a more orderly life, and were genuine getting along. They had become a real, close knit family.

Luke Warm wanted that life and the advantages it seemed to afford his family and “that” group of people. If he had to live in this wicked world, he wanted to be like the Son City people in east Texas. Luke I. Warm had an ideal......

 WHOLE NOVEL COMING SOON!!

DR PENSACOLA H. JEFFERSON

 

 

THE SINFUL NATURE: APPETITES, CRAVINGS & DESIRES BIBLE STUDY PART 1

       

THE SINFUL NATURE: CONDITIONED APPETITES, CRAVINGS, AND DESIRES

“…I want to dowhat is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t….I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

“…Who will free mefrom this life that is dominated by SIN? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (the WORD OF GOD)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  “…if the Son (Jesus Christ, the indwelling Holy Spirit)…shall make you FREE, ye shall be FREE indeed.” (John 8:36 KJV).

“... Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin...” (Romans 6:6 KJV).

“... I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me...” (Galatians 2:20 KJV).

*

SCRIPTURE(S): “…I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t….I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by SIN? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (the WORD OF GOD)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  

 PURPOSE OR GOAL OF LESSON: TO LEARN THE ORIGINS OF ONE’S APPETITES, HUNGER, AND DESIRES.

 APPLICATION OF LESSON: TO ALLOW GOD TO EMPOWER YOU TO LIVE HEALTHY IN ALL AREAS OF YOUR LIFE, INCLUDING YOUR RESPONSES TO CERTAIN CRAVINGS, APPETITES, AND DESIRES.

TOPIC DISCUSSION: DISCUSS SOME OF YOUR OWN PERSONAL CRAVINGS, APPETITIES, AND DESIRES THAT ARE THAT “NOT” GOOD FOR YOUR WELL-BEING OR HEALTH. ALSO DISCUSS WHY YOUR STILL DO THEM. ASK YOURSELF IS IT BECAUSE YOU WANT TO OR YOU FEEL CONTROLLED BY THAT CRAVING OR DESIRE OR IT IS BOTH?  

CRAVINGS are empowered by DESIRES or something the body of flesh or sinful nature longs for, lusts after, has a passion for, yearns, covets, or has an unnatural or dysfunctional hunger for. What is a CRAVING specifically? A craving is a POWERFUL and sometime “out of control” desire for something or someone. 

What is HUNGER? HUNGER, on the other hand, was meant to be the original desire or PHYSICAL needfor food in order to nourish the body of flesh and keep it working and healthy. APPETITE was its partner, originally, created to provide an healthy DESIREfor FOOD, which was meant to motivate the behavior necessary to go get it. What is an APPETITE specifically? 

An appetite is the DESIRE to EAT or CONSUME something. An APPETITE to consume something is stimulated when something APPEALS to one’s DESIRES, through one or more of the five senses, for that thing or person. 

Appetites can POWERFULLY motivate a person’s BEHAVIOR to DO what is necessary to SATISFY its demands. The body of flesh and the FIVE SENSES were created, for example, to SERVE the SOUL and help them engage, interact, and experience appetite in a way that regulates their ENERGY INTAKE for METABOLIC purposes. 

HUNGER and APPETITE were created “GOOD” and were meant to work together to help KEEP the body of flesh properly fueled and healthy for the SOUL’S usage. HUNGER was a God-given need for food and APPETITE was the God-given desire for food. When “…God saw everything he had made……and, [said] … it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV). 

 The healthy “desire” for food (appetite) was meant to motive healthy behavior to consume food (hunger) necessary to maintain a healthy body of flesh. God created GOOD and HEALTHY food for them. “...I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed;to you it shall be for meat...it was VERY GOOD...” (Genesis 1:29, 31a KJV). 

The DESIRE for food comes THROUGH one or more of the FIVE SENSES. For example, the SOUL engages in EATING when it SMELLS certain foods and/or SEES certain foods. The DESIRE for food, when the body of flesh SMELLS or SEES certain FOODS can become a CONDITIONED response that motivates behavior.

 A CONDITIONED response is LEARNED through associations between something in the environment and natural responses to hunger and appetite. The smell of certain foods or the sight of certain foods is associated or paired with “natural” hunger and appetite in order to motivate behavior necessary to satisfy the need to consume something. 

The presentation of healthy FOOD was meant to naturally trigger a healthy hunger and appetite to motivate the appropriate behavior to seek after necessary nourishment for the body of flesh. However, the world is under the power of the EVIL ONE, and the EVIL ONE’s presentation of UNHEALTHY FOODS is meant to unnaturally trigger unhealthy hungers and appetites to motivate inappropriate behavior to seek after food NOT necessary for the body of flesh. The SMELL of certain, unhealthy foods and the SIGHT of certain, unhealthy foods NOW motivate behavior to satisfy those unnatural hungers and appetites. 

For example, after years of learning, engagement, exposure, and indulgence, the SMELL and SIGHT of certain UNHEALTHY foods begin to TRIGGER unnatural hunger and appetite that will motivate the behavior to GO after it! 

The CONDITIONED response to the smell and sight of certain UNHEALTHY FOODS becomes established and strengthen over years and years of engagement and can easily trigger unhealthy hunger and appetite patterns to motivate unnatural behaviors to seek after those foods. The original God-given and natural HUNGER and APPETITE totally disappears and becomes dysfunctional. 

The learned HUNGER and APPETITE, in the world under the power of the EVIL ONE, becomes the FAMILIAR and CONDITIONED response to the SMELL and SIGHT of certain FOODS. 

HUNGER and APPETITE linked together will MOTIVATE a person’s behavior to TAKE ACTION necessary to SATISFY the NEED (real or conditioned) for FOOD (healthy or unhealthy). It is HUNGER and APPETITE that the EVIL ONE perverts and uses it to MOTIVATE sinful behavior and influence one to TAKE ACTION to SATISFY the NEED, whatever IT IS. 

UNDER the POWER of the EVIL ONE, HUNGER is PERVERTED to satisfy the PHYSICAL body of flesh and its MANY sinful CRAVINGS. APPETITE is also PERVERTED to satisfy the DESIRE to CONSUME the MANY sinful CRAVINGS using one or more of the FIVE SENSES. When UNDER the power of the EVIL ONE, the body of flesh engages in consuming many things in the natural world by SMELLING them, or SEEING them, TASTING them, HEARING about them, or TOUCHING them.  

While the body is ENGAGED, or INTERACTING or EXPERIENCING the consumption of sinful things within the natural world, through the FIVE SENSES, the SOUL is learning something about what they are doing. Whatever the SOUL is learning, through the body of flesh and one or more of the FIVE SENSES, it SENDS that INFORMATION to the heart, which informs the mind that, in turn, form thoughts that direct or motivate behavior.  

 God created the heart to be the information center that STORES what the soul observes, perceives, learns, experiences, and make decisions about, withing, HIS CREATED WORLD. INITIALLY, the body of flesh, through the FIVE SENSES, helped the SOUL engage, interact, and experience God’s “GOOD” created world. For example, SIGHT helped with visual learning. HEARING helped with associating different sounds. TASTE helped with learning to discriminate one preferable thing from another. SMELL helped by providing memories. TOUCH helped with experimental learning. In the BEGINNING ALL of mankind’s FIVE SENSES were influenced by GOD’S GOOD CREATED WORLD. “….God saw every thing he had made… [he said], it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV). A person is NOT born with a particular appetite, but an appetite is developed.

 Appetite GROWS and CHANGES into particulars as one experiences the diversity of things, within the world, that can be CONSUMED when one is HUNGRY (real or conditioned) for “something.” HUNGER can be a GOOD thing and was God-given to HELP the SOUL properly care for the physical needs, of the body of flesh, in a WHOLESOME and HEALTHY Way! The FIVE SENSES were given to help the SOUL engage, interact, and experience GOOD things to consume that benefit them, especially spiritually. 

The EVIL ONE perverted HUNGER and USES it to KILL, STEAL, and DESTROY the healthy eating habits of SOUL so they will NOT properly care for the physical needs, of the body of flesh, in a WHOLESOME or HEALTHY way. The FIVE SENSES are now PERVERTED and WON’T help the SOUL engage, interact, or experience GOOD things to consume, but harmful things that won’t benefit them, especially physically or spiritually. 

Information within the heart, gleaned from the world under the power of the EVIL ONE, is responsible for associating specific, human, appetites with a reward system that satisfies the body of flesh in many carnal ways. Specific, human, appetites linked with a reward system that satisfies the body of flesh, most likely, provide an calming effect to the psyche. This calming effect reduces stress. 

This calming effect that reduces stress makes the body of flesh FEEL better. The memories associated with specific appetites that have a reward system (like calming) becomes desirable to repeat. This desire, to repeat an unhealthy habit, turns into a craving when a specific appetite is satisfied over and over again, followed by a reward (like calming). 

Thus, the desire, now an uncontrollable craving, becomes a POWERFUL behavior that gets OUT OF CONTROL. Trying to stop the “out of control” craving, through the body of flesh is like trusting in and depending upon the very thing that developed the habit in the first place. 

Only God can truly DELIVER a person from entrenching habits or strongholds that have become established, “out of control,” cravings. Trying to replace “out of control” cravings with something else in order to stop the habit depends on how rewarding, calming, and desirable the alternative is. Using substitutes, alternatives, or modifications to stop “out of control” cravings associated with specific rewards, like calming, is “STILL” reinforcing the habit, though on a much smaller scale. 

For the redeemed soul the key is “NOT” simply to BREAK the habit, but to walk in totally FREEDOM and DELIVERANCE from it. The EVIL ONE puts into the WORLDY environments many things that trigger, entice, manipulate, or reinforce mankind’s cravings, and make it almost impossible for them to BREAK habits. 

GOD puts the indwelling Holy Spirit into the HEART of the redeemed soul, in seed-like form, in order to empower them to live and walk in FREEDOM and DELIVERANCE. The redeemed soul is FREE and DELIVERED from the POWER of triggers, enticements, manipulations, or reinforcements conditioned by the EVIL ONE through long established behaviors. 

The problem with trying to rid oneself of established behaviors is experienced when demands or rules are placed upon the body of flesh that is incapable of conquering deep rooted habits or strongholds. The body of flesh is a vessel created to engage, interact, and experience the natural world through the FIVE SENSES.

 It does what it does. It doesn’t obey God and it NEVER will. It is flesh. It is also a sinful nature. Trying to BREAK a habit, by attempting to discipline your body of flesh alone or without the help of the indwelling Holy Spiritwill ONLY make the “out of control” craving more DESPERATE. Eventually, you will end up indulging in the established habit, AGAIN, even more to compensate for lost time. 

Being DELIVERED from a habit by trusting in and depending upon the FREEDOM through Jesus Christ is the ONLY way to STOP an “out of control” craving. The sinful nature is dead and crucified, but the information stored in the heart by the sinful nature, sends the same information to the mind that forms thoughts that respond to triggers, enticements, manipulations, and reinforcements. 

These triggers, enticements, manipulations, and reinforcements are everywhere in the EVIL ONE’S carnal environments, which makes it almost impossible to break  “out of control” and established habits. In addition, indulging in, “out of control” cravings are easy, accessible, familiar, comfortable, and satisfying. 

The EVIL ONE through one or more of your FIVE SENSES conditioned your body of flesh to have an appetite for unhealthy pleasures that reward you, calm you, and fulfill your desire until it becomes an “out of control” craving and an established, unbreakable habit. God does not come to REPAIR, FIX, ALTER, or REPLACE “out of control” cravings that have become established habits, he came to DELIVER  and FREE you completely from them. 

He came to EMPOWER, through the indwelling Holy Spirit, the redeemed soul to walk and live in FREEDOM from “out of control” cravings and established habits. Trying to put RULES and REGULATION upon the body of flesh with “out of control” cravings and long established habits is a recipe for failure. 

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

"… if the salt has become tasteless … It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out…” (Matthew 5:13 NASB). “…The sinful nature is always hostile to God . …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “..[The sinful nature]... never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “...those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). 

Many go on diets from their “out of control” cravings and some are successful as long as they stick to the rules and regulations. It is always a struggle. On the other hand, some choose to have faith in God, the Holy Spirit to EMPOWER them to live and walk in FREEDOM from their cravings. Many, who have faith in God, have enjoyed overwhelming victory, from the cravings of the sinful nature, as long as they continually trust in and depend upon his indwelling Holy Spiritto EMPOWER them to WALK in FREEDOM.

 “...In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world...” (John 16:33 KJV). “... Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world..." (John 16:44 NLT). “...Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...” (John 14:27 KJV). “...we must [go]...through much tribulation [to]...enter into the kingdom of God...” (Acts 14:22 KJV). “...despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us...” (Romans 8:37 NLT). 

Following rules and regulations to STOP “out of control” cravings and being DELIVERED from “out of control” cravings may MIRROR one another, for a while. However, the DIFFERENCE is the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT EMPOWERS deliverance and HELPS the redeemed soul to LIVE and WALK in FREEDOM. “... [God’s] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of  it ALL]…” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

 Following rules and regulations is often LIKE trying to FIX “out of control” cravings and established habits whereas DELIVERANCE “IS” TOTAL FREEDOM from “out of control” cravings and established habits. For the redeemed soul, there are no rules and regulations, there is only belief and unbelief. 

“... You have died with Christ, and he has set you free from the spiritual powers of this world. So why do you keep on following the rules of the world, such as, “Don’t handle! Don’t taste! Don’t touch!”? Such rules are mere human teachings about things that deteriorate as we use them. These rules may seem wise because they require strong devotion, pious self-denial, and severe bodily discipline. But they provide no help in conquering a person’s evil desires...” (Colossians 2:20-23 NLT). “…Trust in (DEPEND UPON) the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto (DON’T DEPEND UPON) thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). 

“…The LORD will accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [you]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “… The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “…You are my helper and my savior…” (Psalms 40:17 NLT).  “…The steps (OF DELIVERANCE) of a good man (woman) are ordered (DIRECTED) by the Lord: …” (Psalms 37:23 KJV). “… THE LORD … is Your rock and Yourfortress, your deliverer…” (Psalms 18:3 NASB). 

When the redeemed soul is DELIVERED from “out of control” cravings and established habits the problem is NOT the body of flesh or its dictates anymore, but the struggle is “IN” the MIND (heart). “...Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there...” (Galatians 5:24 NLT). “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind (through the WORD of God)….”(Romans 12:2 KJV).

 Living and walking in DELIVERANCE and FREEDOM from the SINFUL NATURE requires exposure to the TRUTH. It is the TRUTH that sets you, the redeemed soul, FREE.  

 “…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by SIN? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (the WORD OF GOD)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).   Jesus had another name. “… His name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB).“… the Son (Jesus Christ, the indwelling Holy Spirit. the Word of God)…shall make you FREE...” (John 8:36 KJV).

 

THE SINFUL NATURE; RENEWING THE MIND REQUIRES THE WORD OF GOD, PART 2 (QUESTIONS)

         

THE SINFUL NATURE:

 “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV).

“... Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin...” (Romans 6:6 KJV).

“... I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me...” (Galatians 2:20 KJV).

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SCRIPTURE(S):“… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….”(Romans 12:2 KJV). “... Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him,...” (Romans 6:6 KJV)“... I am crucified with Christ...” (Galatians 2:20 KJV).

PURPOSE OR GOAL OF LESSON: TO LEARN THE SINFUL NATURE IS CRUCIFIED WITH CHRIST AND IT CAN “ONLY” CONTROL YOU THROUGH AN UNRENEWED MIND.

APPLICATION OF LESSON: TO CLEARLY SEE HOW THE SINFUL NATURE IS STILL CONTROLLING YOUR MIND THROUGH THE UNRENEWED HEART. TO BEGIN TO FREELY CHOOSE TO TRUST AND DEPEND UPON GOD’S WORD AND THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT TO EMPOWER YOU TO LIVE AND WALK IN THE FREEDOM FROM THE SINFUL NATURE.

TOPIC DISCUSSION: DISCUSS BIBLICAL TRUTHS ABOUT THE SINFUL NATURE AND HOW YOU CAN, PERSONALLY, LIVE AND WALK IN FREEDOM FROM ITS CONTROL BY SIMPLY RENEWING YOUR MIND BY PUTTING NEW INFORMATON INTO THE HEART.

EVIL AND TAINTED INFORMATION STORED IN THE HEART

1.      WHICH ONE OF EVE’S FIVE SENSES DID THE SERPENT USE TO MOTIVATE DISOBEDIENCE?“…The woman [became] ... convinced (THROUGH SOUND) [to eat from the tree, anyway]... She saw (SIGHT) that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked (SIGHT) delicious (TASTE), and she wanted(LUST of the EYES) the wisdom (PRIDE of LIFE) it would give her. So she took (TOUCH) some of the fruit and ate it (TASTE)...” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). “….She [choose to take] ... some of the fruit and [eat] ... IT. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and HE ATE IT, too …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A PERSON “FOLLOWS” AFTER THE SINFUL NATURE? “... the sinful nature ... never did obey  (follow after) God’s laws, and it never will. (FOLLOW AFTER GOD’S HOLY LAW)..” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT). WHAT DID EVe DO WHEN SHE FOLLOWED AFTER HER FLESH?. “….She [choose to take] ... some of the fruit and [eat] IT (the information put into heart, informed her mind, which formed “thoughts” that directed her behavior) ... Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and HE ATE IT, too …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).

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2.      What holy instruction did god give adam and eve? “…of every tree of the garden THOU MAYEST FREELY EAT: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou  SHALT NOT EAT of it; for in THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). HAD GOD BLESSED ADAM AND EVE WITH EVERYTHING THEY NEEDED, ALREADY?  “...God blessed them and said to them, “...Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it ...RULE OVER (have dominion over).... Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food ...And it was so...” (Genesis 1:28-31 KJV).ADAM AND EVE WERE ORIGINALLY CALLED “LIVING” SOULS, WHAT KINDS OF SOULS WOULD THEY BE CALLED WITHOUT GOD’S HOLY SPIRIT? “…the body without (apart from) the spirit is dead…” (James 2:26 KJV).

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3.      WHEN YOU WILLINGLY CHOOSE TO YIELD TO THE SINFUL FLESH VERSES GOD’S INSTRUCTION, WHAT WILL YOU BECOME TO THE SINFUL NATURE “YOU” WILLINGLY CHOOSE TO OBEY? “…Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (Romans 6:16 KJV).  “...the whole world lies under the power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV). HOW DOES THE BIBLE DESCRIBE THE “EVIL ONE?” “…He was a murderer from the beginning … for he is a liar and the father of lies…” (John 8:44 NASB). GOD IS TRUTH. WHAT TRUTH DID HE TELL ADAM AND EVE?. GOD SAID: “…of every tree of the garden THOU MAYEST FREELY EAT: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou  SHALT NOT EAT of it; for in THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). THE EVIL ONE IS A LIAR. WHAT LIE DID HE TELL ADAM AND EVE? The EVIL ONE SAID: “…ye shall not surely die.…” (Genesis 3:4-5 KJV). ADAM AND EVE DIED IMMEDIATELY, BUT WHAT KIND OF DEATH WAS IT? “…[God’s Word] shall prosper in the thing whereto [God]… sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV). “.… Thou shalt surely die…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). “… [Their] (Eve’s and Adam’s) … iniquities (violation of God’s instructions) … [immediately] … separated [them]… from God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…Every man (or woman) is tempted, when … [they are] … drawn away of his (or her) own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it BRINGETH FORTH SIN: and sin, when it is finished, BRINGETH FORTH DEATH…” (James 1:13-15 NLT). THAT day “…Sin (the violation of God’s instructions) entered into the world, and (SPIRITUAL) DEATH through sin, and so (SPIRITUAL) DEATH passed to all men(women)—“(Romans 5:12 KJV). “…SIN IS the transgression of the law (violation of God’s instruction)….” (1 John 3:4 KJV). “…The wages of sin is death (spiritual death)…” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “…God asked the woman, “What have you done?” (Genesis 3:7-13 NLT). “… ONE sinner destroy[ed] … MUCH GOOD (GOD IS “THAT” GOOD)…” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB). “… [They were] …separated … from God… …” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). They were NOW “…DEAD in … sin…” (Ephesians 2:1 KJV). “…Through one man… [or Adam and Eve] … sin entered into the world, and DEATH through sin, and so DEATH passed to all men—“(Romans 5:12 KJV). NOW “…All have sinned and fallen short of the glory (the HOLY Spirit) of God…” (Romans 3:23).

 

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4.    ADAM AND EVE “ATE” THE FORBIDDEN APPLE AGAINST GOD’S HOLY INSTRUCTION, WHAT HAPPENED “IMMEDIATELY?”“…So she took some of the fruit and ate it. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it, too.” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). IMMEDIATELY, Adam, Eve, and ALL of mankind became “…separated from the [Holy] LIFE of God…” (Ephesians 4:18 NIV). “…in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). “…At that moment their eyes were opened (to an existence without the Holy Spirit of God)…” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).  “… [They immediately became] … separated from the [Holy] LIFE of God…” (Ephesians 4:18 NIV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “… [Their] … iniquities …separated [them]… from God… …” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). WHy DOES AN ACT OF SIN SEPARATE MANKIND FROM GOD? “…Your INIQUITIES (sin) have separatedbetween 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). “…God asked the woman, “What have you done?” (Genesis 3:7-13 NLT). “… ONE sinner destroy[ed]… MUCH GOOD…” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB). CAN THE “HOLY” GOD FELLOWSHIP WITH SIN OR UNRIGHTEOUSNESS? WHY OR WHY NOT? “…what fellowship [can God, the Holy Spirit of] righteousness [have]... with unrighteousness? And what communion [can God, the Holy Spirit of]... light [have]...with darkness? And what concord [can God, the HOLY Father of]...Christ [the Word OF Truth] ...with Belial? Or what part [of an abiding branch] that believeth [have]...with an infidel (who doesn’t believe)?” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV).“…between us and you a great chasm (barrier) has been set in place…” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB).

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5.      Whom had adam and eve separated themselves from?  “…[Their]... INIQUITIES (sin) ....separated (divided them)... be [from their] God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). ADAM AND EVE YIELDed THEMSELVES TO THE EVIL ONE. WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU YIELD YOURSELF TO SOMETHING OR SOMEONE TO OBEY THEM?  “…Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey (follow after), his servants ye are to whom ye obey (follow after); whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (Romans 6:16 KJV).  “...the whole world lies under the power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV).NAME A WAY THAT THE REDEEMED SOUL CAN BECOME EMPOWERED TO SERVE RIGHTEOUSNESS INSTEAD OF THE SINFUL NATURE? “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). SHOULD REDEEMED SOULS STOP FELLOWSHIPPING WITH OTHERS BELIEVERS? WHY OR WHY NOT. “...And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near...” (Hebrews 10:25 NLT). “... Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching...” (Hebrews 10:25 KJV).

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6.      WHEN THE REDEEMED SOUL TRUSTS AND DEPENDS UPON THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT WILL HE EMPOWER THEM TO LIVE AND WALK IN FREEDOM FROM THE SINFUL NATURE? “…God ...does the work IN AND THROUGH all of us who are his… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…I can do ALL THINGS through Christ which strengtheneth me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). WHEN THE REDEEMED SOUL TALKS TO GOD THROUGH PRAYERS, DOES HE ANSWER THEM? God, the Holy Spirit says, “….call upon me …and pray unto me and I will [LISTEN] unto you…” (Jeremiah 29:12-13 KJV). “...I am the one who answers your prayers and cares for you...” (Hosea 14:5-9 NASB).“…Abide in Me, and I in you …” (John 15:4-6 NASB). IF THE REDEEMED SOUL IS NOT A SLAVE TO OR PRISONER OF THE SINFUL NATURE ANY MORE, WHAT IS HE OR SHE? “…Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he is a NEW creature …” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “...For in him we live, and move, and have our being (identity); as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring...” (Acts 17:28 KJV). 6.  ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

7.     WHAT RESPONSIBILITY DOES THE REDEEMED soul FREELY CHOOSE TO ACCEPT IN ORDER TO BE TRANSFORMED INTO THE IMAGE OF CHRIST? “…Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). “…be conformed to the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV). “…the will of God (his heart’s desire, his choice, what he wants, etc.), [is]…your SANCTIFICATION …” (1 Thessalonians 4:3 NASB).  WHEN THE REDEEMED SOUL CHOOSES TO ACCEPT THE RESPONSIBILITY OF RENEWING THEIR MINDS, WILL THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT HELP AND EMPOWER THEM TO DO IT? YES.“…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “…You are my help and my deliverer… (Psalms 40:17 NASB). “…It is Godwho WORKS IN YOU…” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). COULD THE REDEEMED SOUL BE TRANSFORMED WITHOUT THE HELP OF THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT? “…Apart from [the INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT] YOU (REDEEMED SOULS) can do nothing….” (John 15:5 KJV). IF THE REDEEMD SOUL CHOOSES TO TAKE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF RENEWING THEIR MINDS WILL THEY TRANSFORM INTO THE IMAGE OF JESUS CHRIST.“ ... in the PROCESS of TIME “IT” CAME TO PASS…” (Genesis 4:3 KJV).

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8.      OUTSIDE OF THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT, WHAT ELSE DID GOD GIVE THE REDEEMED SOUL TO EMPOWER THEM TO BE TRANSFORMED? “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV).  “… His name (Jesus) is called The Word of God …” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “... [Jesus, the Word] ... opened their minds to understand the Scriptures...” (Luke 24:45 NLT). WHAT WILL THE WORD OF GOD EMPOWER THE REDEEMED SOUL TO DO? “…All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works…” (2 Timothy 3:16-17 KJV). “... Let the Spirit (the Word, scriptures, etc.) renew your thoughts and attitudes...” (Ephesians 4:23 NLT).“…THE WORDS (scripture) THAT I SPEAK unto you, theyARE SPIRIT …” (John 6:63 KJV). THE WORD OF GOD RENEW THE THOUGHTS. WHERE DOES THE THOUGHTS COME OUT OF? “... from within, out of a person’s heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder...” (Mark 7:21 NLT). “… For out of the HEART come EVIL THOUGHTS—murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander…” (Matthew 15:18-19 NIV). The bible says, “…as he [or she] thinketh in his [or her] heart, so is he [or she]…” (PROVERBS 23:7 KJV). ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

RENEW THE INFORMATION AND TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE

9.     WHAT WAS PLANTED WITHIN THE HEART OF THE REDEEMED SOUL IN SEED-LIKE FORM? “… … THE WORD …was sown in THEIR HEARTS…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). “… …The seed is the WORD OF GOD …” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). WITH THE SEED PLANTED IN THE HEART OF THE REDEEMED SOUL, DOES THAT GIVE THEM A NEW HEART? HOW? “…If any man be in Christ, he is a NEW CREATURE …” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “… [New creations]… are HIS workmanship, created in Christ Jesus  …” (Ephesians 2:10 KJV). “…it is God (the Holy Spirit) which worketh in [new creations]…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).God says, “…I WILL GIVE ...[them]... a new heart, and I will put a new spirit ...[within them]. I will take out ...[their]... stony, stubborn heart and give ...[them]... a tender, responsive heart…”(Ezekiel 36:26 NLT). “…it is God which worketh in ...[them]... both to will and to do of his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).  “…by the grace of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV). “… [Therefore]… we all … are changed into the same image [of Christ] from glory to glory …” (2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV). WHO CAN CLEAN THE HEART OF THE REDEEMED SOUL?“…Create in me a clean heart, O God…” (Psalms 51:10 KJV).“.... [The redeemed souls, therefore, keep] ...holy and clean, washed by the cleansing [power]...of God’s Word ...” (Ephesians 5:26 KJV).“...[The redeemed souls]... are clean through the WORDwhich I (Jesus, the Word) have spoken unto [them]...” (John 15:1-10 KJV). “… Apart from [Jesus, the Word, You, the redeemed soul]…can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

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10. What will cleaning the heart do for the mind? “…Create in me a clean heart, O God…” (Psalms 51:10 KJV). RENEWING THE INFORMATION - STORED IN THE HEART BY THE EVIL ONE -  THROUGH THE CLEANSING WORD OF GOD IS CALLED WHAT? “…Christ ….loved the church, and GAVE himself for it; That he might SANCTIFY and CLEANSE it, with the washing of water by the word (of god)….” (Ephesians 5:25-25 KJV). “… The God of peace Himself SANCTIFY  (cleanse) you ENTIRELY…” (1 Thessalonians 5:23 NASB). “...God has chosen you from the beginning for SALVATION through SANCTIFICATION (cleansing power) by the Spirit and faith in the truth…” (2 Thessalonians 2:13 NASB “….ye are SANCTIFIED (cleaned) …in the name of the Lord Jesus (the Word), and by the SPIRIT of our GOD…” (1 Corinthians 6:9-11 KJV). THE INFORMATION, STORED IN THE HEART BY THE EVIL ONE, CAN COME OUT OF THE HEART TO FORM WHAT KIND OF THOUGHTS IN THE MIND? “…..out of the HEART come EVIL THOUGHTS—murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander…” (Matthew 15:18-19 NIV).

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11. THE INFORMATION, PUT INTO THE HEART BY THE WORD OF GOD, CAN COME OUT OF THE HEART TO FORM WHAT KIND OF THOUGHTS IN THE RENEWED MIND? “…..out of the HEART come ... [GOOD] ... THOUGHTS — [love, joy, peace, gentleness]…” (Matthew 15:18-19 NIV). HOW ARE THOSE “GOOD” THOUGHTS PRODUCED? WHEN THE REDEEMED SOUL CHOOSES TO RENEW THEIR MINDS WITH THE WORD, HOW WILL YOU BE ABLE TO WITNESS WHO THEY ARE?"....The....[indwelling]... Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in [their] ...lives …” (Galatians 5 NLT). “…The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “…Ye shall know [those with the indwelling Holy Spirit]… by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV). HOW DOES A REDEEMED SOUL PRODUCE A “LOT” OF FRUIT? “…He who ABIDES in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit … ” (John 15:1-11 NASB). "…My Father is glorified by this, that “[THE REDEEMED” bear much fruit, and so PROVE to be...[HIS]... disciples” (John 15:8 NIV). WHEN THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT BEGINS TO PRODUCE SPIRITUAL FRUIT IS THAT A SIGN THAT GOD IS WORKING “IN” AND “THROUGH” THE REDEEMED SOUL? “…God ...does the work IN AND THROUGH all of us who are his (the REDEEMED)… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

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12.                      WHEN THE REDEEMED SOUL BEGINS TO BEAR SPIRITUAL FRUIT, PEOPLE WILL WITNESS A TRANSFORMATION IN THEIR WHAT? WHEN “ONE” REDEEMED SOUL DOESN’T CHOOSE TO HAVE THEIR MINDS RENEWED BY THE WORD, HOW CAN IT IMPACT THEIR BROTHERS AND SISTERS-IN-CHRIST? "…A little yeast works through the whole batch of dough…" (Galatians 5:9 NIV). "… You must purge the evil from among you…” (Deuteronomy 21:18-21 NIV). “…Abstain from all APPEARANCE OF EVIL…” (1 Thessalonians 5:22 KJV). GOD DOES NOT WANT HIS PEOPLE TO BE CONFORMED TO WORLDLY WAYS AND PRACTICES. IN WHAT WAY DOES GOD WANT HIS PEOPLE TO Become conformed? “…be conformed to the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV). “…Therefore, come out from their midst and be separate,” says the Lord. “…And do not touch what is unclean…” (2 Corinthians 6:13-17 NASB).  “…ye shall be holy unto me: for I the Lord am holy, and have severed you from other people, that ye should be mine. …” (Leviticus 20:26 KJV). WHAT WILL CONFORMING TO WORLDLY BEHAVIORS AND WAYS DO TO THE REDEEMED SOUL? “…thou hast gone a whoring after the heathen, and …art polluted with their idols…” (Ezekiel 23:30). Will GOD KNOW IF REDEEMED SOULS ARE NOT SINCERE ABOUT THEIR WALK WITH HIM? “….These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me…” (Matthew 15:8 NLT). GOD IS NOT LOOKING AT WHAT A REDEEMED SOUL DOES OUTWARDLY AS MUCH AS HE IS LOOKING AT WHAT? “...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 (woman) of the heart…” (1 Peter 3:4 KJV). God knows it is “…from within, out of the heart of man, proceed evil thoughts… wickedness…All these evil things come from within, and defile a person.” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV). The heart “…is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked…who can know it [except God?]…” (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV).

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13. WHAT IS THE PROBLEM WITH “EVERYTHING” IN THE WORLD AND UNDER THE POWER OR INFLUENCE OF THE EVIL ONE? “.. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” (1 John 2:16-17 NLT). “…the whole world lies under the power (INFLUENCE) of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV).“... Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants (the Evil One’s servants) ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death (following the Evil One into bondage or imprisonment), or of obedience unto righteousness (following Jesus into freedom)?” (Romans 6:16 KJV). WHY IS A CHRIST-LIKE WITNESS IMPORTANT TO GOD? “…LET YOUR LIGHT SO SHINE before men, that they may see your good works…” (Matthew 5:16 KJV), “…Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven…” (Matthew 5:16 KJV). “…In this world we are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).THE REDEEMED SOUL HAS THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT WITHIN THEIR HEARTS. What does 2 corinthians 5:17 say they’ve become? “…Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). CAN THE REDEEMED SOUL BECOME CHRIST-LIKE WITHOUT JESUS, THE LIVING WORD? “….Apart from Me (the indwelling Holy Spirit and Word), you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

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14. WHAT IS A REDEEMED SOUL CALLED THAT “LOOKS” CHRIST-LIKE ON THE OUTSIDE, BUT IS NOT ON THE INSIDE? “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for 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).  “…thou …art polluted with their idols…” (Ezekiel 23:30). WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT A REDEEMED SOUL THAT KEEPS GOD’S COMMANDMENT? “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). WHAT ARE REDEEMED SOULS WHO HAVE ONE FOOT IN THE CHURCH AND THE OTHER IN THE WORLD?“…A double minded man (woman) is unstable in all his ways…” (James 1:8 KJV). WHAT DOES THE BIBLE TELL THE REDEEMED SOUL TO DO WITH “EVERY” THOUGHT? “... take captive EVERY THOUGHT to make it obedient to Christ (the Word)...” (2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV). WILL GOD WORK WITH THE REDEEMED SOUL TO EMPOWER THEM TO BECOME CONFORMED TO THE IMAGE OF HIS SON? “... For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose” (Philippians 2:13 NIV).

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15.THE RENEWED MIND COMES FROM A CLEAN HEART, WHICH SENDS INFORMATION, FROM GOD’S WORD, TO THE MIND TO “FORM” THOUGHTS THAT EMPOWER THE REDEEMED SOUL TO FOLLOW GOD’S INSTRUCTIONS. TRUE OR FALSE?“... we demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and take captive EVERY THOUGHT to make it obedient to Christ (the Word)...” (2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV). The redeemed mind that comes from a clean heart will WITNESS God’s presence, goodness, and power (WHICH IS HIS GLORY) upon earth. HOW WILL GOD’S GLORY BE REVEALED “IN” AND “THROUGH” REDEEMED SOULS? "...My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples...” (John 15:8 NIV).The heart “…is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked…who can know it [except God?]” (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV). “Create in me a clean heart, O God…” (Psalms 51:10 KJV). A CLEAN HEART IS INSTRUMENTAL IN ENABLING THE REDEEMED SOUL TO PRODUCE SPIRITUAL FRUIT. WHAT WILL THIS PROVE? "My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so PROVE to be My disciples” (John 15:8 NIV). Therefore, “…BE YE transformedby the renewing of your mind, that ye may PROVEwhat is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God…” (Romans 12:2 KJV).WHAT IS GOD’S GOAL, NOT YOURS, BUT GOD’S GOAL FOR THE REDEEMED SOUL’S HEART? God’s goal is “…to make [the heart]… holy and clean, washed by the cleansing of God's word” (Ephesians 5:26 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). Why? The heart “…is deceitful ABOVE all things and desperately wicked…who can know it [except God?]” (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV).

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16. EXPLAIN HOW THE HEART OF THE REDEEMED SOUL CAN BECOME CLEAN. “You are “… [cleansed]… through [God’s]… truth: thy word is truth…” (JOHN 17:17 KJV). Therefore, “…Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly” (COLOSSIANS 3:16 KJV). When “…Christ [dwells] in your hearts by faith …” (Ephesians 3:17 KJV). Jesus becomes the cleansing Word.  “…Christ ... [comes to dwell]…in your hearts by faith …” AFTERWARD Jesus “… [purifies your]… hearts by faith...” (Acts 15:9 KJV). JESUS IS SENT INTO THE HEART OF THE REDEEMED SOUL IN SEED-LIKE FORM. WHEN “THAT” SEED IS WATERED BY GOD’S WORD WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO THE REDEEMED SOUL? “…be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). AND “…conformed to the image of his Son...”  “... [Jesus]...Christ...[the Word is dwelling].... in your hearts …” (ROMANS 8:29 & Ephesians 3:17 KJV). “… THE WORD …was sown in THEIR HEARTS…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). “…The seed is the WORD OF GOD …” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). God, the Holy Spiritrepresents a type of water and refers to himself as “...spring of living water...” (Jeremiah 2:13 KJV). The bible says, “....I (God, the Holy Spirit) will pour my Spirit upon THY SEED...” (Isaiah 44:3 KJV). “…The [indwelling]...HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (to produce fruit) THROUGH [the redeemed SOUL] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “...the  (indwelling) Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in [the redeemed soul’s]... lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control…” (Galatians 5 NLT).

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17. God is “not” human, but spirit. he was “not” created to be like humans, but he  created humans how? “….let us make man in “our” image, after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV).  “…..God created man in his “own” image…..male and female created he them…” (Genesis 1:27 KJV). “….God …breathed into his nostrils the breath of life…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV). BEFORE A SOUL IS REDEEMED, THEY ARE A “DEAD” SOUL. HOWEVER, AFTER A SOUL IS REDEEMED WHAT DOES THAT SOUL BECOME AGAIN?“…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). “...For in him we live, and move, and have our being ( our NEW IDENTITY); as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring...” (Acts 17:28 KJV). “….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).“….let us make man in our image, after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV). They were originally created in God’s “image”, which is SPIRIT. “…God is not human …” (Numbers 23:19 NIV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…the Spirit of God dwell in you (AGAIN)…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). BEFORE YOU BECAME A “NEW CREATION” OR A REDEEMED SOUL, WHAT DID YOU USED TO BE? “...You used to do these things when your life was still part of this world. But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language...” (Colossians 3:6-8 NLT). “...once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light!  For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true...” (Ephesians 5:7-9 NLT).  “... thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people—none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God. Some of you were once like that. But you were cleansed; you were made holy; you were made right with God by calling on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God...” (1 Corinthians 6:10-11 NLT).“…old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

18. 

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________18. DOES THE REDEEMED SOUL HAVE EVERYTHING THEY NEED TO LIVE AND WALK IN RIGHTEOUSNESS?God says, “…I WILL GIVE you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart…”(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).  “…by the grace of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV). IF THE REDEEMED SOUL CHOOSES TO UTILIZE THE WORD AND DEPEND UPON THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT TO EMPOWER THEM, WILL THEY CONFORM TO THE IMAGE OF JESUS CHRIST? “… [Therefore]… we all … are changed into the same image [of Christ] from glory to glory …” (2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV). WILL THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE REDEEMED SOUL HAPPEN BY FORCE, OR BY MAGIC, OR SIMPLY BECAUSE A PERSON IS SAVED, OR WILL IT HAPPEN BY THEIR “OWN” WILLFUL AND VOLUNTARY CHOICE TO RENEW THEIR MINDS?“… Be transformed by the renewing of yourmind….”(Romans 12:2 KJV).

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THE SINFUL NATURE: RENEWING THE MIND REQUIRES THE WORD OF GOD

         

THE SINFUL NATURE: RENEWING THE MIND REQUIRES THE "POWERFUL" WORD OF GOD

 “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….”(Romans 12:2 KJV).

“... Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin...” (Romans 6:6 KJV).

“... I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me...” (Galatians 2:20 KJV).

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SCRIPTURE(S):“… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….”(Romans 12:2 KJV). “... Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him,...” (Romans 6:6 KJV)“... I am crucified with Christ...” (Galatians 2:20 KJV).

PURPOSE OR GOAL OF LESSON: TO LEARN THE SINFUL NATURE IS CRUCIFIED WITH CHRIST AND IT CAN “ONLY” CONTROL YOU THROUGH AN UNRENEWED MIND.

APPLICATION OF LESSON: TO CLEARLY SEE HOW THE SINFUL NATURE IS STILL CONTROLLING YOUR MIND THROUGH THE UNRENEWED HEART. TO BEGIN TO FREELY CHOOSE TO TRUST AND DEPEND UPON GOD’S WORD AND THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT TO EMPOWER YOU TO LIVE AND WALK IN THE FREEDOM FROM THE SINFUL NATURE.

TOPIC DISCUSSION: DISCUSS BIBLICAL TRUTHS ABOUT THE SINFUL NATURE AND HOW YOU CAN, PERSONALLY, LIVE AND WALK IN FREEDOM FROM ITS CONTROL BY SIMPLY RENEWING YOUR MIND BY PUTTING NEW INFORMATON INTO THE HEART. The body of flesh and its dictates (FIVE SENSES) were CONTROLLED by the EVIL ONE. He is able to continue to affect and control the behavior of the redeemed soul through the MIND from the old information put into the heart by the sinful nature.

 In addition, the redeemed soul STILL blames the body of flesh, which is crucified and doesn’t recognize they are being controlled, manipulated, and forced to continue to do things they don’t want to do, because the EVIL ONE is influencing their BEHAVIOR through information STORED in the heart PRIOR to salvation. 

Nobody likes to be controlled, manipulated, or forced to do something. So the EVIL ONE, through their “own” hearts, continue to influence them to fall prey to his ways, without having to SAY another word. 

The unrenewed MIND has been thoroughly brainwashed, by the EVIL ONE, through his sinful and carnal world. The EVIL ONE used and uses sinful, carnal and worldly influences every minute, second, hour, day, week, and year to gain and KEEP control of information that is PUT into mankind’s hearts. 

The EVIL ONE does it by inadvertently  dictator-ing their beliefs, attitudes, personalities, identities, and behaviors using their FIVE SENSES through the sinful nature. From the information, stored in the human heart, from the world, the EVIL ONE changes mankind’s thoughts and behaviors SO MUCH it totally eradicates any image or likeness of God, the Holy Spirit.  

Everything, in the world and UNDER the power of the EVIL ONE is used to PERSUADE, INFORM, and REFORM mankind’s HEART information and THOUGHTS toward SIN. This persuasion can be OVERT or COVERT. But, nevertheless, EVERYTHING “IN” the world is designed to educate, affect, and influence mankind toward a SINFUL, CARNAL, and WORLDLY mindset. This PERSUASION is what is also called BRAINWASHING, where EVERYTHING in the WORLD, combined together, is meant to SEVERELY influence the WAY mankind THINKS and/or behaves. 

This BRAINWASHING is DONE without mankind’s consent and without the permission of mankind’s human will. The EVIL ONE’S brainwashing techniques INVADE every part of mankind’s information, store it within their hearts and proves the WHOLE WORLD is UNDER the “EVIL ONE’s” power. Another term for how the EVIL ONE trains mankind is called “subliminal seduction” where the subconscious hears and receives “hidden messages,” embedded in music, commercials, advertising, etc., which will affect one’s “deeper” thoughts without their awareness. 

The PURPOSE of all these tricks, manipulations, and antics of the EVIL ONE is to gain MIND CONTROL where mankind goes from being individual souls to slaves to the sinful nature. Mankind speaks of freedom, choice, and individuality whereas the EVIL ONE is constantly creating a WORLDLY culture that OPPRESSES those freedoms with his subtle, but deadly persuasions of mind control. MIND CONTROL is what the EVIL ONE is after because his brainwashing and subliminal messages affect mankind’s THOUGHTS and ultimately their BEHAVIORS. 

EVERYTHING in the world and under the EVIL ONE’s power is designed to ISOLATE mankind from God, the Holy Spirit and HIS TRUTH. The EVIL ONE wants to be LIKE God by becoming a Father too and having children. The EVIL ONE is the “Father of LIES” and there are many “children of the DEVIL.”  Thus, the EVIL ONE isolates mankind from God’s TRUTH in order to REMAIN in COMPLETE CONTROL over HIS or HER SOUL.

 The EVIL ONE wants to CONTROL everything that the SOUL does, through the body of flesh and its dictates (senses), which includes what and how they eat, how they love, how they engage with the opposite or same sex, how they interact with other people, and how they experience all aspects of life. 

The EVIL ONE uses the WORLD to systematically KILL and DESTROY mankind’s original identity as a “LIVING SOUL” until he or she doesn’t even remember or care that they were once a “LIVING SOUL.” He replaces their original identity with HIS LIES, “EVIL DEEDS,” and MIND  CONTROL. Mankind establishes another identity through the sinful nature, which is CHRONICALLY developed by the EVIL ONE’S sinful, worldly, and carnal environments. 

The EVIL ONE’S subliminal seductions and brainwashing is DONE through MIND coercion, which consists of clever and masterful manipulations, that CONTROL the soul in POWERFUL and effective WAYS. The EVIL ONE “GAINS” dictatorship OVER mankind. When a person BECOMES a NEW CREATION in Christ, it CRUCIFIES the sinful nature, destroys the devils works, and STOPS any further brainwashing from the EVIL ONE. The OLD identity through the body of flesh and it dictates is OVER, but the evil one has LEFT his influence, stored within the heart of the redeemed soul. 

Nonetheless, the EVIL ONE, has LOST control over the REDEEMED soul. However, in order to STOP being affected and influenced by the OLD IDENTITY the redeemed soul CHOOSES to renew their MINDS in order to ERADICATE the brainwashing process DONE by the EVIL ONE through the heart information. The EVIL ONE used the FIVE SENSES, like the serpent did Eve in the garden, to gain control of the SOUL. 

The FIVE SENSES are powerful SOURCES to motivate evil and disobedience BEHAVIOR. “…The woman [became] ... convinced (THROUGH SOUND) [to eat from the tree, anyway]... She saw (SIGHT) that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked (SIGHT) delicious (TASTE), and she wanted (LUST of the EYES) the wisdom (PRIDE of LIFE) it would give her. So she took (TOUCH) some of the fruit and ate it (TASTE)...” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). “….She [choose to take] ... some of the fruit and [eat] ... IT. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and HE ATE IT, too …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). 

One or more of the FIVE SENSES motivated Eve to BEHAVE in the WAY the serpent WANTED her to. Eve DID exactly what the SERPENT wanted her to DO by ENTICING and MANIPULATING one or more of her FIVE SENSES. The EVIL ONE (revealed through the serpent) ENTICED, MANIPULATED, INFLUENCED, and COERCED Eve through the FIVE SENSES (built into the FLESH), which the HE USED to deceived her into DOING what he WANTED her TO DO.The EVIL ONE still uses the SAME tricks.

The EVIL ONE understands the body of flesh and its FIVE SENSES were NOT created to FOLLOW AFTER GOD; it never could and it never would. “... the sinful nature ... never did obey  (follow after) God’s laws, and it never will. (FOLLOW AFTER GOD’S HOLY LAW)..” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT). The EVIL ONE ALSO knew the SOUL would have NO POWER over the body of flesh WITHOUT the indwelling Holy Spirit. 

The EVIL ONE knew he could use the body of flesh to engage one or more of the, built-in, FIVE SENSES to coerce EVE into “eating the apple.” His tricks made her “think” she was exercising, ALL on her “own,” her God-given FREEDOM to choose. “…The woman [became] ... convinced (THROUGH SOUND) [to eat from the tree]... She saw (SIGHT) that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked (SIGHT) delicious (TASTE), and she wanted (LUST of the FLESH) the wisdom (PRIDE of LIFE) it would give her. So she took (TOUCH) some of the fruit and ate it (TASTE)...” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). “….She [choose to take] ... some of the fruit and [eat] IT (the information put into heart, informed her mind, which directed her behavior) ... Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and HE ATE IT, too …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). The EVIL ONE used Eve’s body of flesh and its FIVE SENSES to gain control of her MIND and thus her behavior. 

God, the Holy Spirit, GAVE mankind (Adam and Eve) one HOLY instruction:  “…of every tree of the garden THOU MAYEST FREELY EAT: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou  SHALT NOT EAT of it; for in THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). 

The EVIL ONE’S manipulation and influence was intentional, because he KNEW, without God, the indwelling Holy Spirit, he could take POWER of the natural world from Adam and Eve by making them HIS slaves. “….Apart from [the indwelling Holy Spirit]…YOU CAN DO NOTHING…” (John 15:5 NIV).  

 “...God blessed them and said to them, “...Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it ...RULE OVER (have dominion over).... Then God said, “I give youevery seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food ...And it was so...” (Genesis 1:28-31 KJV). “…the body without (apart from) the spirit is dead…” (James 2:26 KJV).  

When Adam and Eve FOLLOWED AFTER the EVIL ONE through the body of flesh and its FIVE SENSES, they became HIS SERVANTS and everything they had been given was now his to do as he pleased.  “…Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (Romans 6:16 KJV).  “...the whole world lies underthe power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV). The EVIL ONE’s techniques were and are DECEITFUL.

 He is a LIAR, and he has used his lies upon mankind, since the beginning of time, by using the body of flesh and its FIVE SENSES. Now ALL OF MANKIND has BECOME BRAINWASHED, SUBLIMINALLY SEDUCED, and SHAPED by “HIS” LIES, HIS CARNALITY, HIS WORLDLY INFLUENCES and HIS SINFUL, EVIL, and WICKED BEHAVIORS. 

 “…He was a murderer from the beginning… for he is a liar and the father of lies…” (John 8:44 NASB). GOD SAID: “…of every tree of the garden THOU MAYEST FREELY EAT: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou  SHALT NOT EAT of it; for in THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). The EVIL ONE SAID: “…ye shall not surely die.…” (Genesis 3:4-5 KJV).

 The “evil one” LIED, BECAUSE THEY DIED SPIRITUALLY, IMMEDIATELY! THE WOMAN WAS CONVINCED BY THE EVIL ONE: “…The woman [became] ... convinced (THROUGH SOUND) [to eat from the tree, anyway]... She saw (SIGHT) that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked (SIGHT) delicious (TASTE), and she wanted (LUST of the FLESH) the wisdom (PRIDE of LIFE) it would give her. So she took (TOUCH) some of the fruit and ate it (TASTE)...” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). 

Mankind was LEFT with a body of flesh, NOW, under the power of the EVIL ONE. The indwelling Holy Spiritof LOVE, GOODNESS, POWER, PEACE, and HOLINESS departed from the SOUL. “…[Their]... INIQUITIES (sin) ....separated (divided them)... be [from their] God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey (follow after), his servants ye are to whom ye obey (follow after); whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (Romans 6:16 KJV).  “...the whole world lies underthe power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV).  

The body of flesh is DEAD and CRUCIFIED, when one is REDEEMED, but the influence, it had, upon the HEART is NOT until it is RENEWED! Here are some suggestions in order to STOP the evil one’s influences:  

1.  The redeemed soul CHOOSES to renew their OWN hearts in order to REMOVE, ALLOW God’s Word to cleanse, and STOP the leftover influence of the EVIL ONE. “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….”(Romans 12:2 KJV). 

2. The redeemed soul CHOOSES to fellowship with other redeemed souls in order to surround themselves with like-minded people. “...And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near...” (Hebrews 10:25 NLT).  “... Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching...” (Hebrews 10:25 KJV). 

3. The redeemed soul chooses to trust and depend upon the POWERFUL indwelling Holy Spirit to “enable” them walk and live in their new freedom. “…God ...does the work IN AND THROUGH all of us who are his… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).  

4.The redeemed soul chooses to pray and spend time with God, the Holy Spirit. “….call upon me …and pray unto me and I will [LISTEN] unto you…” (Jeremiah 29:12-13 KJV). “...I am the one who answers your prayers and cares for you...” (Hosea 14:5-9 NASB).“…Abide in Me, and I in you …” (John 15:4-6 NASB). 

5. The redeemed soul chooses to see themselves through their new identity as a NEW CREATION in Christ. “…Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he is a NEW creature …” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “...For in him we live, and move, and have our being (identity); as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring...” (Acts 17:28 KJV).  

6. The redeemed soul chooses to accept the responsibility of renewing “their”  OWN minds, in order to genuinely transform and become like Jesus Christ. Please note, long after, the body of flesh (sinful nature) is DEAD and CRUCIFIED, it is normal to process through ridding oneself of the influences the old nature had upon the MIND through information STORED within the heart. “…Be transformedby the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). 

“…beconformed to the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV). “…the willof God (his heart’s desire, his choice, what he wants, etc.), [is]…your SANCTIFICATION (cleanliness from the sinful nature through the cleansing POWER of God’s Word) …” (1 Thessalonians 4:3 NASB).  “ ... in the PROCESS of TIME “IT” CAME TO PASS…” (Genesis 4:3 KJV).

 

THE SINFUL NATURE IS CRUCIFIED BIBLE STUDY, PART 2

 

THE SINFUL NATURE: CRUCIFIED and NO LONGER IN CONTROL

 “…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by SIN? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (the WORD OF GOD)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  “…if the Son (Jesus Christ, the indwelling Holy Spirit)…shall make you FREE, ye shall be FREE indeed.” (John 8:36 KJV).

“... Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin...” (Romans 6:6 KJV).

“... I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me...” (Galatians 2:20 KJV).

“…you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).   

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     SCRIPTURE(S): “... Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin...” (Romans 6:6 KJV). “…you are not controlled by your sinful nature…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

     PURPOSE OR GOAL OF LESSON: TO LEARN THAT THE SINFUL NATURE IS DEAD AND CRUCIFIED, WHICH MEANS IT HAS “NO” CONTROL OVER THE REDEEMED SOUL.

     APPLICATION OF LESSON: TO APPLY GOD’S WORD DURING YOUR STRUGGLES TO OVERCOME THE SINFUL NATURE. IT IS GOD’S POWERFUL TRUTH THAT WILL CONTINUALLY SET YOU FREE

        TOPIC DISCUSSION: DISCUSS HOW GOD’S PEOPLE ARE FREED FROM SIN AND HOW THEY “STAY” FREE THROUGH GOD’S “POWERFUL” WORD AND THE EMPOWERING OR STRENGTHENING OF HIS INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT

THE SINFUL NATURE: CRUCIFIED

1.    DID GOD CHOOSE YOU, PERSONALLY? WHY OR WHY NOT? “…HE CHOSE US in Him before the foundation of the world…” (Ephesians 1:4 NLT). "…You did not choose me but I chose you…” (John 15:16 ASV).  “…ye are a chosengeneration…” (1 Peter 2:9 KJV). “...For thou art an holy people unto the Lordthy God: 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).“...you are a chosen people…” (1 Peter 2:9 NIV). "…You did not choose (God, the Holy Spirit]...” (John 15:16 ASV).  "… I (god, the holy spirit) chose you….” (John 15:16 ASV).   "… I have chosen you….” (John 15:16 KJV).  WHY? "... I (God, the Holy Spirit) chose you, and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit...” (John 15:16 ASV).  God is the Chooser.  Jesus CAME “…to give His life a ransom for many...” (Matthew 20:28 KJV). “…Christ ... suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us [back] to God …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV). “…God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ  …” (2 Corinthians 5:18 NIV). “..If I (Jesus, the WORD) be lifted up from the earth, WILL DRAW all men unto me…” (John 12:32 KJV).“… I will bring them home again,” says the Lord….” (HOSEA 11 NLT). “… [He sent the] …one… who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). WHEN THE REDEEMED SOUL IS RECONCILED TO GOD THROUGH CHRIST WHAT HAPPENS TO THE OLD SINFUL NATURE? “...We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin...” (Romans 6:6 NLT).  “... My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me...” (Galatians 2:20 NLT). THE OLD SINFUL NATURE; ALL ITS DEMANDS AND DICTATORSHIPS ARE NO LONGER IN CONTROL OF THE SOUL. WHY OR WHY NOT? “..they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts...” (Galatians 5:24 KJV). “...Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there...” (Galatians 5:24 NLT). WHAT DOES CRUCIFIED MEAN? WHEN THE BIBLE SAYS JESUS SET YOU FREE FROM THE OLD SINFUL NATURE; ARE YOU TRULY FREE FROM IT? WHY? “...If the Son therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed” (John 8:36 KJV). “…where the Spirit (the indwelling Holy Spirit) of the Lord is, there is liberty (freedom)...” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV). “...We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin...” (Romans 6:6 NLT).  ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

2. What does the bible say about the physical body and what purpose it serves? “...Yet the body is not for immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord is for the body...” (1 Corinthians 6:13 NASB). “...Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies...” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NIV). “...so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death...” (Philippians 1:20 NIV). “...in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship...” (Romans 12:1 NIV). “...Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it...” (1 Corinthians 12:27 NIV). WHAT DOES THE PHYSICAL BODY ENABLE THE SOUL TO DO IN THE NATURAL WORLD? HOW? WHAT IS THE PROBLEM WITH THE SOUL, THROUGH THE PHYSICAL BODY, ENGAGING, INTERACTING, AND EXPERIENCING THE WORLD?“…the whole world lies under the power (INFLUENCE) of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV). WHAT COMES OUT OF THE HEART AND INTO THE MIND THAT REVEALS THE INFLUENCE OF THE EVIL ONE UPON THE SOUL “THROUGH” THE SINFUL NATURE? “…out of the heart come evil thoughts… (Matthew 15:19). “…When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: ...wickedness... (etc.)…anyone living that sort of life WILL NOT inherit the Kingdom of God. …” (Galatians 5:22-23 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). ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

3.    THE HEART OF THE SOUL HAS RECEIVED AND LEARNED ALL of ITS INFORMATION FROM A WORLD THAT IS UNDER THE POWER OF THE EVIL ONE. WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT THE HEART IN JEREMIAH 17:9? The heart, however, “…is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked…who can know it…” (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV). WHEN A PERSON’S HEART IS DECEITFUL AND DESPERATELY WICKED WHO DO THEY RESEMBLE? “...You are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies. 45 So when I tell the truth, you just naturally don’t believe me!...” (John 8:44-45 NLT). GOD MADE EVERYTHING GOOD, BUT CORRUPTED “MUCH” GOOD? ONE SINNER. “….God saw every thing he had made… [he said], it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV). ONE’S influence.“… One sinner destroy[ed]… much good...” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB).  “…Then…Lord God asked [Eve]…“What have you done?…“ …” (Genesis 3 NLT). “…[they became] ... separated … from [their]… God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV).

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4.    IF ADAM AND EVE BECAME SEPARATED FROM GOD, WHO IS GOOD, CAN THEY OR THE WORLD BE GOOD WITHOUT GOD? “...The lord is GOOD…there is none good but one, that is, God” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV).“…There is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not…” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV). “…ALL HAVE SINNED and fallen short of the glory of God…” (Romans 3:23). “… [ALL have become]…..unclean and [their so-called] righteousnesses (efforts to BE good is) as filthy rags….” (Isaiah 64:6 KJV). WHAT “ONE” INSTRUCTION HAD GOD GIVEN TO ADAM AND EVE? THEY COULD EAT FROM EVERY TREE, BUT THE TREE OF THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOOD AND EVIL.“…of every tree of the garden THOU MAYEST FREELY EAT: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou  SHALT NOT EAT of it; for in THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). NAME ONE OR MORE OF THE SENSES THAT THE EVIL ONE USED TO APPEAL TO EVE’S DESIRE TO DISOBEY GOD? “…The woman [became] ... convinced (THROUGH SOUND) [to eat from the tree, anyway]... She saw (SIGHT) that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked (LUST of the EYES) delicious (TASTE), and she wanted (LUST of the FLESH) the wisdom (PRIDE of LIFE) it would give her. So she took (TOUCH) some of the fruit and ate it (TASTE)...” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). THOUGH THE EVIL ONE TEMPTED EVE, WAS SHE FORCED TO EAT THE APPLE OR DID SHE CHOOSE TO EAT IT? “….She [choose to take] (human will) ... some of the fruit and [eat] ... IT. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and HE ATE IT, too …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). WHAT ROLE DID THE FLESH PLAY IN TEMPTING EVE TO DISOBEY GOD’S INSTRUCTION? “…The [flesh]...nature  ... never did obey God’s laws, and it never will…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).“…The sinful nature wants to do evil (EAT THE APPLE), which is just the opposite of what the [Holy] Spirit (DON’T EAT THE APPLE) wants. These TWO FORCES are constantly fighting each other, so you are not FREE  to carry out your good intentions (OBEDIENCE TO RIGHTEOUSNESS). … …” (Galatians 5 NLT).

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5.    THE FLESH WILL NOT OBEY GOD AND IT WILL TRY TO INFLUENCE THE SOUL, through the senses, NOT TO OBEY GOD EITHER. WHAT DID GOD SAY ABOUT HIS PEOPLE THAT FOLLOWED AFTER EVIL DESIRES? “... the people replied, “…We will continue to live as WE WANT TO, stubbornly following our own evil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT). “…My people would not listen to me. They KEPT DOING WHATEVER THEY WANTED, following the stubborn desires of their [OWN] evil hearts…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). DOES GOD LOOK AT MANKIND’S HEART? “...God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD LOOKS AT THE HEART (mind)…”(1 Samuel 16:7 NASB). “…Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men…” (Acts 1:24 KJV). “… He watches everyone closely, examining every person on earth. The Lordexamines both the righteous and the wicked…” (Psalm 11:4-5 NLT). WHAT DOES THE BIBLE CALL A PERSON WHO DOES GOOD OR RIGHTEOUS-LIKE DEEDS, BUT HAS AN EVIL HEART? “...the LORD LOOKS AT THE HEART…”(1 Samuel 16:7 NASB). “... hypocrites! ...which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness… ” (Matthew 23:27 KJV). “…No one needed… to tell him (JESUS) about human nature, for he knew what was in each person’s heart…” (John 2:24-25 NLT).

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6.    PAUL SAID HE DISCIPLINED HIS BODY (HIS FLESH) AND MADE “IT” HIS SLAVE INSTEAD OF CONTINUALLY BEING A SLAVE TO THE SINFUL NATURE HE WAS FREED FROM. HOW DOES THE BIBLE RECOMMEND YOU DISCIPLINE YOUR FLESH? “... discipline [your] ... body and make it [your]... slave...” (1 Corinthians 9:27 NASB). “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….”(Romans 12:2 KJV). “…Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God...” (Roman 10:17 KJV). “…I can do ALL THINGS throughChrist which strengtheneth me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).“… [God] grant[s]… [the redeemed SOUL]… to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man…” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV). “…It is God 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…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…The God of peace … that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip[s] you with everything good for doing his will…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “...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). WHAT WILL THE SINFUL NATURE “NEVER” DO? WHAT DOES THE SINFUL NATURE WANT TO DO “ALL” THE TIME? “…The [flesh]...nature  ... never did obey God’s laws, and it never will…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “…The sinful nature (flesh) wants to do evil,...” (Galatians 5 NLT). PAUL DISCIPLINED HIS BODY(FLESH) THROUGH THE WORD AND WITH THE HELP OF THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT. paul also MADE “THE SINFUL NATURE” HIS SLAVE. WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF YOU DON’T DO WHAT PAUL DID? “... discipline [your] ... body and make it [your]... slave...” (1 Corinthians 9:27 NASB). “….you [will become] ... slaves of the one you obey (follow AFTER, LISTEN TO, ETC.)…” (Romans 6:16 NIV). IF THE REDEEMED SOUL DOES NOT ACCEPT THE RESPONSIBILITY OF CHOOSING WILLFULLY WHOM THEY’LL SERVE, WHO WILL THEY END UPON SERVING? “…Choose youthis day whom ye will serve (the flesh or the Spirit).” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “….you [will become] ... slaves of the one you obey (follow AFTER, LISTEN TO, ETC.)…” (Romans 6:16 NIV). ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

7.    ALL THE INFORMATION, STORED IN THE HEART, WAS GAINED THROUGH THE SINFUL NATURE. CAN THAT INFORMATION HELP THE REDEEMED SOUL DO RIGHT OR DO WHAT IS GOOD? WHY OR WHY NOT? “...I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature through my untransformed mind) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). WHAT DOES HOSTILE MEAN? HOW DO  YOU KNOW WHEN THE INFORMATION, STORED IN THE HEART BY THE SINFUL NATURE, IS MAKING YOU BEHAVE HOSTILE TOWARD GOD TOO? “... the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will...” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT). “…If you love me, you will keep my commandments…” (John 14:15). “…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 (REBELLION IN SOME AREA OF OUR LIVES), WE LIE, and DO NOT THE TRUTH…” (1 John 1:6 KJV).  “ … the deeds of the flesh are evident…” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB). WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAYS THE SINFUL NATURE WANTS TO DO? IF YOU FOLLOW AND WALK after THE SINFUL NATURE WHAT ARE YOU AGREEING TO DO TOO?“…The sinful nature (flesh) wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the [Holy] Spirit wants. And the [Holy] Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature (flesh) desires. These TWO FORCES are constantly fighting each other, so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions.… …” (Galatians 5 NLT). “...Can two (SOUL & SINFUL NATURE) walk together, except they be agreed?...” (Amos 3:3). “… you hypocrites ...This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me” (Mark 7:6 KJV).  “…for thy heartis not right in the sight of God…” (Acts 8:21 KJV). “…As [person] THINKETH within his [or her] heart (mind) (where the information is stored that FORM thoughts), so is he [or she] (his or her actions, behaviors, rebellions, etc.)…”(Proverbs 23:7 KJV). WHEN YOU AGREE TO FOLLOW THE SINFUL NATURE ARE YOU FORCED TO DO IT OR IS IT A WILLFUL CHOICE? “…Choose you(MAKE A CHOICE) this day whom ye will serve (obey)….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).“…If My people which are called by My name shall humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and TURN FROM their wicked ways…” (2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV). “… His name (JESUS) is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “... Jesus (the WORD) saith…I am the way…” (John 14:6 KJV). “…Choose you(MAKE A CHOICE) this day...” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

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8.    The sinful nature is crucified and is no longer in control of the redeemed soul. The information, stored in the heart remains. What does the bible urge the redeemed soul to do to cleanse the old information? How can they renew their minds? “…be transformed by the renewing of your mind... [through the revelation knowledge of God, the Holy Spirit’s Word]...” (Romans 12:1 KJV).  “…Create in me a clean heart (mind), O God…” (Psalms 51:10 KJV). “…Christ ….[can]... CLEANSE it (heart(mind), with the washing of water by the word (of god)….” (Ephesians 5:25-25 KJV). THE INFORMATION, STORED IN THE HEART, AFFECTS THE WAY THE REDEEMED SOUL THINKS. WHEN THE SINFUL NATURE CONTINUES TO DOMINATE THE REDEEMED SOUL, WHAT KIND OF THOUGHTS WILL THEY HAVE? “... Those who are dominated by the sinful nature (through the untransformed mind) think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit (through the transformed mind) think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace...” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT). DOES THE REDEEMED SOUL HAVE TO BE DOMINATED BY THE SINFUL NATURE ANY LONGER? WHAT CAN THEY DO? “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 SINFUL NATURE: NO LONGER IN CONTROL

9.    IF THE REDEEMED SOUL DOESN’T CHOOSE TO RENEW THEIR MINDS WHO WILL THEY BECOME “SLAVES” TO? “….you [will become] ... slaves of the one you obey (follow)…”(Romans 6:16 NIV). CAN THE REDEEMED SOUL FOLLOW THE SINFUL NATURE AND GOD TOO? WHY OR WHY NOT?“…The sinful nature is always hostile (antagonistic, unreceptive, rebellious, etc.) to God  …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).“..[The sinful nature]... never did obey (follow after) God’s laws, and it never will (follow after god’s holy laws)…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “…Choose you(MAKE A CHOICE) this day whom ye will serve (obey)….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “...NO ONE CAN SERVE TWO MASTERS...” (Matthew 6:24 KJV). WHY WOULD THE REDEEMED SOUL “STILL” BE UNDER THE CONTROL OF THE SINFUL NATURE? “...those who are still under the control of their sinful nature(through the unrenewed mind) can never please God…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “.. .[god’s redeemed people] ... are not controlled by ...[their]... sinful nature. (unless they choose to be) ... [they]... are controlled by the Spirit if [they choose to be AND] have the Spirit of God living in [them] …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).“… (Christ lives within the heart of the redeemed soul)... The Spirit of God, who (powerfully) raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God (powerfully) raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give (spiritual life and power-filled) life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “… The [indwelling Holy] ... Spirit gives you (the REDEEMED soul, spiritual) life because [they] have been made right with God (reunited with God, the Holy Spirit). …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “…Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, [the redeemed  soul has]... no obligation to do what [their]... sinful nature urges [them]... to do. For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit (the indwelling Holy Spirit) you [choose to]... put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God (the indwelling Holy Spirit) are children of God…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).“…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by (the untransformed mind which has been influenced by) SIN (through the body of flesh)? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (THE WORD of God & the indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… Jesus (the WORD of GOD) …came and SPAKE, unto them saying, “All POWER is given unto me (the word) IN heaven and earth…” (Matthew 28:18 KJV). “… Be transformed (HOW?) by the renewing of your mind (through the POWERFUL WORD of God)….”(Romans 12:2 KJV). Will the WORD make YOU FREE? Yes. HOW? “…If the Son (the word) therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed (without a doubt!!)…” (John 8:36 KJV).

10       What does the redeemed soul have, within their hearts, that can empower them to walk and live free from the sinful nature? “…God has sent forth the Spiritof His Son “INTO” [YOUR HEART]…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…I  will put a new spirit...[AND HEART]... in you…” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT). “…The Lord (JESUS, the Word) is that [indwelling] ...Spirit (or is that “new” heart and new spirit)…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV). “…Jesus Christ (the Word) is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…I can do all things through Christ (the Word)which strengtheneth me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). WILL THE INFORMATION, STORED IN THE HEART by THE OLD SINFUL NATURE AND THE  new information sent into the heart by the HOLY SPIRIT WANT TO DO THE SAME THINGS? “…The sinful nature (flesh) wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the [Holy] Spirit wants.And the [Holy] Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature (flesh) desires. These TWO FORCES are constantly fighting each other, so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions. … …” (Galatians 5 NLT). IF THE REDEEMED SOUL DOESN’T CHOOSE TO RENEW THEIR MINDS, WHAT WILL DOMINATE THEIR HEARTS and minds? “... Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will...” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT).

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11.   how WILL THE INFORMATION, STORED IN THE HEART, FROM THE SINFUL NATURE, affect the redeemed soul? “…As [person] THINKETH within his [or her] heart (from information, stored by the old sinful nature), so is he [or she] (as witnessed through his or her actions, behaviors, or rebellions, etc.)…”(Proverbs 23:7 KJV). WHAT SHOULD REDEEMED SOULS CHOOSE TO DO WITH EVERY SINGLE THOUGHT FROM THEIR OLD LIVES? WHEN YOU ARE CONDITIONED, TRAINED, AND INFLUENCED BY THE SINFUL NATURE FOR SO LONG, EVEN AFTER ITS DEAD AND CRUCIFIED YOU WILL DO ITS EVIL DEEDS ALL ON YOUR OWN VOLITION, WHY? “… Be transformed(HOW?) by the renewing of your mind (through the POWERFUL WORD of God)….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). “…As [person] THINKETH within his [or her] heart (from information, stored by the old sinful nature), so is he [or she] (as witnessed through his or her actions, behaviors, or rebellions, etc.)…” (Proverbs 23:7 KJV). ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

12. WILL THE INFORMATION, STORED IN THE UNRENEWED HEART, HINDER GOOD INTENTIONS? WHY OR WHY NOT?“…The sinful nature (flesh) wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the [Holy] Spirit wants ...These TWO FORCES are constantly fighting each other, so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions...” (Galatians 5 NLT). “... the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey  ... and it never will...” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT). “...I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…Apart from [the indwelling Holy Spirit]… [the redeemed can]... do nothing [they cannot be TRANSFORMED]…” (John 15:5 NIV). WHAT IS INSIDE THE HEART OF THE REDEEMED SOUL that wasn’t there before? “… [The body of the REDEEMED becomes]... the temple of the Holy Ghost (Spirit) which is in [them]…” (1 Corinthians 6:19 KJV). “ …The Spirit of God dwelleth in [the REDEEMED]…” (1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV). HOW DOES THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT CHANGE THE REDEEMED SOUL? THE REDEEMED SOUL BECOMES A NEW CREATION.“…Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a NEW creature …” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “… All things are … [MADE] … NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). ACCEPTING JESUS INTO YOUR HEART IS A CHOICE. IS RENEWING “YOUR” MIND A CHOICE TOO OR IS IT “FORCED UPON YOU? “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind (through the WORD)….” (Romans 12:2 KJV).

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WHEN GOD, THROUGH JESUS, RESTORES THE DEAD SOUL, WHAT DOES THAT SOUL BECOME AGAIN? WHAT MAKES THE REDEEMED SOUL A “LIVING” SOUL? “…the body without (apart from) the spirit is dead…” (James 2:26 KJV). “… the Holy Spirit gives birth to (or restores) SPIRITUAL LIFE … ” (John 3:6 NLT).  God is a “… restorer of thy life …” (Ruth 4:15 KJV). “… He restoreth my SOUL …” (Psalm 23 KJV). “…The law of the LORD (the WORD of God) is perfect, restoring the SOUL …” (Psalm 19 NASB). “…. He (the WORD OF GOD) restoreth my soul ….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “… I (God, the holy spirit) will restore …” (Jeremiah 30:17 KJV).  “….Jesus Christ (the WORD of GOD) maketh thee WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “... and man (woman) became a living soul... [again] …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV). WHEN THE SOUL IS RESTORED IT MEANS GOD HAS SET THAT SOUL FREE FROM THE BONDAGE AND IMPRISONMENT OF THE SINFUL NATURE. WHAT HAPPENS TO THE SINFUL NATURE WHEN THE SOUL IS SET FREE? “... our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin...” (Romans 6:6 KJV).  “….Jesus Christ (the WORD of GOD) maketh thee WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “... and man (woman) became a living soul …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).  WHEN THE REDEEMED SOUL IS SET FREE, WHAT CAN THEY SOUL DO THAT IT COULDN’T DO BEFORE? “... [ the redeemed have been] made free from sin ….” (Romans 6:18 KJV). “... If the Son therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed ” (John 8:36 KJV). “…Where the Spirit (indwelling Holy Spirit) of the Lord is, there is liberty (freedom)...” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV). “ …The Spirit of God dwelleth in [the REDEEMED]…” (1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV). “... I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me...” (Galatians 2:20 KJV). “...We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin...” (Romans 6:6 NLT).  “... My old self has been crucified with Christ . It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me...” (Galatians 2:20 NLT). “..they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts...” (Galatians 5:24 KJV). “...Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there...” (Galatians 5:24 NLT).

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The soul is set “free” from the bondage of the sinful nature when it is restored to what? “... [ the redeemed have been] made free from sin ….” (Romans 6:18 KJV). “... If the Son therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed... ” (John 8:36 KJV). THE SOUL IS SET FREE AND RESTORED TO SPIRITUAL LIFE, BUT WHAT DOES THE REDEEMED SOUL NEED TO DO IN ORDER TO BRING THE HEARt INto AGREEMENT WITH WHAT JESUS HAS DONE? HOW? WHAT WILL RENEWING THEIR MINDS DO? “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind (through the WORD) ….” (Romans 12:2 KJV).  IS IT THE CHOICE OF THE REDEEMED SOUL TO RENEW THEIR MINDS OR WILL IT BE FORCED UPON THEM, OR WILL IT HAPPEN BY CHANCE? “… Choose you this day whom ye will serve (the flesh or the Spirit).” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________IF THE REDEEMED SOUL DOES NOT CHOosE TO RENEW THEIR hearts, but CONTINUE TO FOLLOW AFTER THE information, put there, by the sinful NATURE, WHO OR WHAT WILL CONTROL THEM? “…. you [will become] ... slaves of the one you obey (follow)…” (Romans 6:16 NIV). “... I want to do what is right, but I can’t . I want to do what is good, but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature through my untransformed mind) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  “... the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will ...” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT). “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind ….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). WHY CAN’T THE INFORMATION, STORED IN THE HEART, BY THE SINFUL NATURE, HELP THE REDEEMED SOUL TRANSFORM INTO THE IMAGE OF JESUS CHRIST? “… Can an Ethiopian change his skin or a leopard its spots? Neither can you do good who are accustomed to doing evil…” (Jeremiah 13:23 NIV). “... I want to do what is right, but I can’t… ” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). WHERE WILL THE SINFUL NATURE LEAD THE REDEEMED SOUL IF THEY CHOOSE TO LET IT CONTINUE TO CONTROL THEIR MINDS? “... letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death . But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. ..” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT). “…The sinful nature (flesh) wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the [Holy] Spirit wants ...These TWO FORCES are constantly fighting each other, so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions . ..” (Galatians 5 NLT).“… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). “... I fear that somehow your pure and undivided devotion to Christ will be corrupted, just as Eve was deceived by the cunning ways of the serpent...” (2 Corinthians 11:3 NLT).

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16.              THE FLESH WAS DESIGNED TO HELP ADAM AND EVE ENGAGE IN AND EXPERIENCE GOD’S WORLD. THEY BOTH HAD HUMAN WILL AND COULD MAKE CHOICES ABOUT GOD’S WORLD. THE FIVE SENSES, WHICH ARE A PART OF THE FLESH, IS HOW THE “EVIL ONE” TEMPETED EVE TO DISOBEY GOD. NAME ONE OF THE FIVE SENSES THE EVIL ONE USED AGAINST EVE AND EXPLAIN “HOW” HE DID IT. “…The woman [became] ... convinced (THROUGH SOUND) [to eat from the tree, anyway]... She saw (SIGHT) that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked (SIGHT) delicious (TASTE), and she wanted (LUST of the FLESH) the wisdom (PRIDE of LIFE) it would give her. So she took (TOUCH) some of the fruit and ate it (TASTE)...” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). “….She [choose to take] ... some of the fruit and [eat] ... IT. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and HE ATE IT, too …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). WHAT “GOOD” DID EVE DESTROY WHEN SHE DISOBEYED GOD? “….God saw everything he had made… [he said], it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV). “… One sinner destroy[ed]… much good...” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB). “...The lord is GOOD…there is none good but one, that is, God” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV). WAS EVE FORCED TO CHOOSE OR DID SHE WILLINGLY CHOOSE TO EAT THE FRUIT? “…The woman [became] ... convinced .... She [choose to take] ... some of the fruit and [eat] ... IT. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and HE ATE IT, too …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). “…The…Lord God asked [Eve]…“What have you done?…“ …” (Genesis 3 NLT). That choice“…separated[eve]… from [her]… God… …” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…Through ...[Eve’s] ... [choice to follow the body of flesh & its dictates, sin]... entered into the world, and …passed to all men…” (Romans 5:12 KJV). “… One sinner destroy[ed]… much good...” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB). “...The lord is GOOD…there is none good but one, that is, God” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV).

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17.              WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT “LETTING” THE SINFUL NATURE CONTROL “YOUR” MIND? “...letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death...” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT). BY “LETTING” THE SINFUL NATURE CONTINUE TO CONTROL YOUR MIND, WHAT will THE SINFUL NATURE ALWAYS “WANT” TO DO? “…The sinful nature (flesh) wants to do evil ... so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions...” (Galatians 5 NLT).“... the sinful nature ... never did obey God’s laws, and it never will...” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT). IS THE BIBLE TRUE ABOUT THE SINFUL NATURE BEING CRUCIFIED? WHY would the SINFUL NATURE “STILL” be CONTROLLING god’s people? “...our old sinful selves (the sinful natures) were crucified with Christ ...” (Romans 6:6 NLT). “..they that are Christ's have crucified the [body of]...flesh with the affections and lusts...” (Galatians 5:24 KJV). “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV)

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THE CRUCIFIED SINFUL NATURE BIBLE STUDY, PART 1

 

THE SINFUL NATURE: CRUCIFIED and NO LONGER IN CONTROL

 “…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by SIN? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (the WORD OF GOD)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  “…if the Son (Jesus Christ, the indwelling Holy Spirit)…shall make you FREE, ye shall be FREE indeed.” (John 8:36 KJV).

“... Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin...” (Romans 6:6 KJV).

“... I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me...” (Galatians 2:20 KJV).

“…you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).    

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     SCRIPTURE(S): “... Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin...” (Romans 6:6 KJV). “…you are not controlled by your sinful nature…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

     PURPOSE OR GOAL OF LESSON: TO LEARN THAT THE SINFUL NATURE IS CRUCIFIED AND DEAD. THE REDEEMED ARE NO LONGER CONTROLLED BY THE SINFUL NATURE AND DO NOT HAVE TO FOLLOW ITS LEADING.

     APPLICATION OF LESSON: TO APPLY GOD’S TRUTH TO YOUR DAILY WALK BY TRUSTING AND DEPENDING UPON HIS WORD THAT SAYS YOU HAVE BEEN RECONCILED, RESTORED, AND MAKE WHOLE  BY GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT, THROUGH JESUS AND CAN USED THE INDWELLING POWER TO CHOOSE TO WALK AND LIVE IN FREEDOM

        TOPIC DISCUSSION: DISCUSS HOW THE SINFUL NATURE IS CRUCIFIED WITH JESUS CHRIST AND IS NO LONGER IN CONTROL OF GOD'S REDEEMED PEOPLE'S MINDS, HEARTS, EMOTIONS, SPIRITUAL LIVES, FINANCIAL LIVES, OR PHYSICAL LIVES. The body of flesh and its dictates (FIVE SENSES) is dead and crucified. “...We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin...” (Romans 6:6 NLT).  “... My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in (and depending upon) the Son of God (the Word of God), who loved me and gave himself for me...” (Galatians 2:20 NLT). “..they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts...” (Galatians 5:24 KJV). “...Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there...” (Galatians 5:24 NLT). 

 To CRUCIFY someone means to literally put them to death by NAILING them to a cross, in the manner of the old, ancient practice for capital punishment. The body of flesh and ALL its dictates (five senses) is CRUCIFIED (dead) with Christ and were NAILED to the CROSS, which set ME and YOU “FREE.” 

Therefore, I AM; WE ARE, DELIVERED forever! REMEMBER The BODY of fleshwas given to us by God to participate in the activities of the natural world. The body of flesh was ONLY a vessel in which the soul could EXPERIENCE, ENGAGE, AND INTERACT WITH everything in the natural world, including people. The body of flesh was originally meant to enable the soul to experience, engage and interact with God’s newly created world through the FIVE SENSES (sight, smell, sound, taste, touch) in GOOD ways. When the body of flesh was ENGAGED, through the FIVE SENSES, the SOUL was enabled to learn and experience THINGS in God’s newly created world.  

 The FIVE SENSES were created so the SOUL could learn and experience THINGS in God’s newly created world, through the body of flesh, by sending INFORMATION to the heart (brain), to inform the mind, which form thoughts. God gave mankind the heart (brain) to be the information center that helps the soul perceive, learn, experience, and observe HIS CREATED WORLD. The body of flesh, through the FIVE SENSES, helped the SOUL engage, interact, and experience God’s “GOOD” created world. For instance, SIGHT helped with visual learning. HEARING helped with associating different sounds. TASTE helped with learning to discriminate one preferable thing from another. SMELLhelped by providing memories. TOUCH helped with experimental learning. In the BEGINNING ALL of mankind’s FIVE SENSES were influenced by the GOOD and LOVING GOD’S newly created WORLD. “….God saw every thing he had made… [he said], it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV). 

 After the separation of God’s Holy Spirit, from mankind, ALL of the FIVE SENSES became AFFECTED and CORRUPTED by the EVIL ONE’S influence “in” the world.“… One sinner destroy[ed]… much good...” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB).  “…Then…Lord God asked [Eve]…“What have you done?…“ …” (Genesis 3 NLT). “…[they became]...separated … from [their]… God… …” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). MUCH GOOD WAS DESTROYED when the “good” God became separated from MANKIND. 

The serpent deceived EVE through her FIVE SENSES. GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT SAID: “…of every tree of the garden THOU MAYEST FREELY EAT: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou  SHALT NOT EAT of it; for in THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). THE SERPENT APPEALED TO THE WOMAN’S SENSES, USING THE BODY OF FLESH. “…The woman [became] ... convinced (THROUGH SOUND) [to eat from the tree, anyway]... She saw (SIGHT) that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked (LUST of the EYES) delicious (TASTE), and she wanted (LUST of the FLESH) the wisdom (PRIDE of LIFE) it would give her. So she took (TOUCH) some of the fruit and ate it (TASTE)...” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). “….She [choose to take] (human will) ... some of the fruit and [eat] ... IT. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and HE ATE IT, too …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). 

Eve’s SENSES enabled HER to learn and experience THINGS in the world which influenced HOW she MADE her decision and choice to EAT the apple. The body of flesh was ACTIVATED by one or more or her FIVE SENSES. Eve’s body of flesh and one or more of her FIVE SENSES influenced how she should engage, interact, and experience what the SERPENT said. The body of flesh was not CREATED to obey God, but to be a SERVANT VESSEL for the soul and the SPIRIT’s benefit. “…The [flesh]...nature ... never did obey God’s laws, and it never will…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).  

Therefore, the body of flesh cannot and will NOT obey God, but it will FOLLOW AFTER the FIVE SENSES by engaging, interacting, and experiencing the world as it was CREATED to do. Without the indwelling Holy Spirit and left to itself, the body of flesh, can become TOTALLY DEPRAVED, in the EVIL ONE’S world and out of control, through the FIVE SENSES, taking the imprisoned SOUL along with it! “…The [flesh]...nature  ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). 

Thus, the problem, with the body of flesh, came when God, the Holy Spirit departed and the SOUL was trapped, within a nature that would NEVER follow after God’s holy commandments. After the Holy Spirit departed, from mankind, the WORLD became FILLED with physical and visual things that incited LUST and human PRIDE, which was totally controlled by the EVIL ONE. “.. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” (1 John 2:16-17 NLT). 

The body of flesh engages, interacts, and experiences the world through the five senses and the world is NOW under the power and influence of the evil one. The soul has NO control over the body of flesh without the indwelling Holy Spirit. The soul, therefore, is engaging, interacting, and experiencing existence or natural life, in a world totally under the power of the EVIL ONE, which leads them inadvertently to follow after him whose only goal is to enslave them through their five senses.  

“...We know … that the whole world lies underthe power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV). The body of flesh cannot and will NOT obey God, but it will FOLLOW AFTER the FIVE SENSES by engaging, interacting, and experiencing the world as it was CREATED to do. Left to itself, the body of flesh can become totally depravedand out of control, through the FIVE SENSES, taking the SOUL along with it! “…The [flesh]...nature ... never did obey God’s laws, and it never will…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).  

The freed and redeemed soul CAN FREELY and willfully choose to follow either the body of flesh and its dictates (outward influences) or the indwelling Holy Spirit (inward influences). “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve (the flesh or the Spirit).” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). An untransformed mind will continue to FOLLOW the information put into the heart by the body of flesh and it dictates, which is now dead, and will, therefore, remain a willful slave to the EVIL ONE. “….you [will become] ... slaves of the one you obey (follow and cooperate with)…” (Romans 6:16 NIV).  

For example, if you have an unhealthy eating habit, the untransformed mind will continue to FOLLOW the information put into the heart - by the body of flesh and its dictates - about what and how you should eat. You will, most likely, constantly struggle with it, or continue to eat unhealthily disregarding your personal desire to be healthy or your personal desire to stick to a new eating lifestyle..  “...I want to dowhat is right, but I can’t.I want to do what is good,but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature through my untransformed mind) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  “... the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will...” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT). “…The sinful nature (flesh) wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the [Holy] Spirit wants. And the [Holy] Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature (flesh) desires. These TWO FORCES are constantly fighting each other, so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions. ……” (Galatians 5 NLT).  

The bible urges, the redeemed soul, to be transformed by renewing their minds. “…be transformed by the renewing of your mind... [through the revelation knowledge of God, the Holy Spirit]...” (Romans 12:1 KJV).  “... Those who are dominated by the sinful nature (through the untransformed mind) think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit (through the transformed mind) think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace...” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT). The REDEEMED soul is FREE and NO LONGER has to follow the body of flesh, which is crucified, or its dictates, but the untransformed mind will continue to influence them to engage, interact, and experience with destructive, sinful behaviors. “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….”(Romans 12:2 KJV).   

Otherwise, “….you [will become] ... slaves of the one you obey (follow)…” (Romans 6:16 NIV). “…The sinful natureis always hostile (antagonistic and unreceptive) to God (his indwelling Spirit and his holy instructions)  …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).“..[The sinful nature]... never did obey (follow after) God’s laws, and it never will(follow after god’s holy laws)…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “...those who are still under the control of their sinful nature (through the untransformed mind) can never please God…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “.. .[god’s redeemed people] ... are not controlled by ...[their]... sinful nature. (unless they choose to be) ... [they]... are controlled by the Spirit if [they choose to be AND] have the Spirit of God living in [them] …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).“… (Christ lives within the redeemed soul)... The Spirit of God, who (powerfully) raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God (powerfully) raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give (spiritual, power-filled) life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).“… The [indwelling Holy] ... Spirit gives you (the REDEEMED soul, spiritual) life because [you] have been made right with God (reconciled, restored, and made whole with God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus). …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). 

“… Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, [the redeemed soul has]... no obligation to do what [their]... sinful nature urges [them]... to do. For if you live by its dictates, you will die.But if through the power of the Spirit (the indwelling Holy Spirit) you [choose to]... put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God (the indwelling Holy Spirit) are children of God…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).“…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by...[OLD information stored in the unredeemed heart and put there through the body of flesh or sinful nature]?…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (THE WORD & the powerful indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

 “… Jesus (the WORD of GOD) …came and SPAKE, unto them saying, “All POWER is given unto me (the word) IN heaven and earth…” (Matthew 28:18 KJV). “… Be transformed (HOW?) by the renewing of your mind (through the POWERFUL WORD of God)….”(Romans 12:2 KJV). Will the WORD renew your mind and empower you to live and walk in the FREEDOM Jesus died for you to have? Yes. HOW? “…If the Son (the word) therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed (without a doubt!!)…” (John 8:36 KJV). 

 The REDEEMED can FREELY choose to trust in and depend upon the indwelling Holy Spirit to STRENGTHEN them to engage, interact, experience with the world anew. The indwelling Holy Spirit produces fruit and the Word introduces new information into the heart of the redeemed soul. In addition, the WORD of God introduces new information into the heart, that FEEDS the mind, which form new thoughts that direct NEW behaviors. “…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son “INTO” [YOUR HEART]…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…I  will put a new spirit...[AND HEART]... in you…” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT). “…The Lord (JESUS, the Word) is that [indwelling] ...Spirit (that makes the heart new and restores the soul)…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV). “…Jesus Christ (the Word) is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…I can do all things through Christ (the Word) which strengtheneth me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).  

The body of flesh is crucified, but it left its influence through information within the heart, which still form evil thoughts within the untransformed mind. The untransformed mind was so accustomed to the evil one’s information - given by the body of flesh and its dictates - that the redeemed soul willfully and voluntarily allow their thoughts to be formed by the crucified sinful nature. On the other hand, the indwelling Holy Spirit, through the transformed mind, wants to influence and sanctify the redeemed soul. The Word of God will cleanse the heart, that cleanses what FEEDS the mind, so it will not form evil thoughts, but righteous thoughts that empower them to live and walk in freedom from the sinful nature

.“…The sinful nature (flesh) wants todo evil, which is just the opposite of what the [Holy] Spirit wants. And the [Holy] Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature (flesh) desires.These TWO FORCES are constantly fighting each other, so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions. ……” (Galatians 5 NLT). “... Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will...” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT).  

One or the other - the body of flesh that desires to do evil or the indwelling Spirit that desires to do righteous - will influence, the redeemed soul, through the information within the heart which SEND FORTH THOUGHTS (evil or righteous) that command behavior. “…The sinful nature (flesh) wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the [Holy] Spirit wants ...These TWO FORCES are constantly fighting each other, so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions...” (Galatians 5 NLT).  

If the information within the heart is NOT renewed, the information put there by the body of flesh (sinful nature), which is crucified, will CONTINUE to send forth evil thoughts that COMMAND and CONTROL your behavior. An unrenewed heart will make it IMPOSSIBLE to overcome EVIL THOUGHTS, EVIL BEHAVIORS, or to LIVE FREE from the crucified SIN NATURE. “... the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey  ... and it never will...” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT). “...I want to dowhat is right, but I can’t.I want to do what is good, but I don’t…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…Apart from [the indwelling Holy Spirit]… [the redeemed soul can] ... do nothing [they cannot renew their hearts(minds)]…” (John 15:5 NIV).  

God’s people are told: “… [The body of the REDEEMED soul becomes]... the temple of the Holy Ghost (Spirit) which is in [them]…” (1 Corinthians 6:19 KJV). “ …The Spirit of God dwelleth in [the REDEEMED soul]…” (1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV). “…Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a NEW creature …” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “… All things are … [MADE] … NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). Yet the bible also says: “… Be transformed (live and walk as a New Creation) by the renewing of your mind (which will feed “it” new information that’s now within the redeemed heart) (through the powerful WORD of God)….”(Romans 12:2 KJV). 

 How is the redeemed soul a NEW CREATION and yet have the SAME MIND? First God RESTORES the SOUL to spiritual LIFE. “…the Holy Spirit gives birth to (or restores) SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT).  God is a “…restorer of thy life…” (Ruth 4:15 KJV). “…He restoreth my SOUL…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “…The law of the LORD (the WORD of God) is perfect, restoring the SOUL…” (Psalm 19 NASB). “….He (the WORD OF GOD) restoreth my soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “…I (God, the holy spirit) will restore…” (Jeremiah 30:17 KJV).  “….Jesus Christ (the WORD of GOD) maketh thee WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “... and man (woman) became a living soul... [again] …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV). 

Second, God SETS your soul FREE from the bondage of the SINFUL NATURE, which is crucified.  “... our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin...” (Romans 6:6 KJV).  “….Jesus Christ (the WORD of GOD) maketh thee WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “... and man (woman) became a living soul…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).“... [the redeemed soul has been] made free from sin (the sinful nature)….” (Romans 6:18 KJV). “... If the Son (the WORD) therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed” (John 8:36 KJV). “…Where the Spirit (indwelling Holy Spirit) of the Lord is, there is liberty (freedom)...” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV). “ …The Spirit of God dwelleth in [the REDEEMED soul]…” (1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV). “... I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me...” (Galatians 2:20 KJV). The body of flesh is crucified. “...We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin...” (Romans 6:6 NLT).  “... My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in (and depending upon) the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me...” (Galatians 2:20 NLT). “..they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh (the sinful nature) with the affections and lusts...” (Galatians 5:24 KJV). “...Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there...” (Galatians 5:24 NLT). 

Third, God has RESTORED spiritual LIFE, he has set the SOUL FREE from the bondage and imprisonment of the SINFUL NATURE (the body of flesh). Now the redeemed soul “is” in the position to FREELY and WILLFULLY choose to follow God and NOT their SINFUL NATURE. “... [the redeemed soul has been] made free from sin….” (Romans 6:18 KJV). “... If the Son therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed...” (John 8:36 KJV). “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind (through the WORD)….”(Romans 12:2 KJV).  “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve (the flesh or the Spirit).” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “….you [will become] ... slaves of the one you obey (follow)…” (Romans 6:16 NIV). “...I want to dowhat is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature through my untransformed mind) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  “... the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will...” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT).“… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….”(Romans 12:2 KJV). “…Can an Ethiopian change his skin or a leopard its spots? Neither can you do good who are accustomed to doing evil…” (Jeremiah 13:23 NIV). “...I want to do what is right, but I can’t…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). 

“…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). Jesus Christ sets the redeemed soul FREE. The bible says God sent him “...to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of prison to them that are bound...” (Isaiah 61:1). Why didn’t God erase ALL the old information left in the heart by the sinful nature? In the beginning, back in the Garden of Eden, God created mankind with a human will. Adam and Eve were given a human willto choose how they wanted to respond in any and every situation they encountered. When God sets the soul FREE, the soul is FREED to CHOOSE again between evil and righteousness. When the soul is in bondage and imprisoned by the sinful nature it is not FREE to choose anything. The captive soul is under the influence, dictatorship, and power of the Evil One. When the soul is FREED, the power of CHOICE is FREED also. God has provided EVERYTHING, the redeemed soul needs to live and walk in FREEDOM.

 “… choose LIFE …” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “… Jesus (the Word) said … I am the life…..” (John 11:25 KJV). “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “…The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who CHOOSE that way. …” (Matthew 7:13-14 NLT).“… I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore [YOU] … choose…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). 

CHOOSING, however, between life and death or right and wrong REMAINS the responsibility of the redeemed soul. God has provided ALL that the redeemed soul NEEDS to live and walk in FREEDOM from the sinful nature, but it is a willful and voluntary choice to follow God’s instructions“…God is the one who provides …” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV). “… God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “…God will generously PROVIDE all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to “SHARE” WITH OTHERS…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT). “….The Lordis my shepherd; I shall not want. ….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “… The Lord is GOOD to “ALL”…” (Psalm 145:9 KJV). “…His (God, the Holy Spirit’s) DIVINE POWER hath given unto [his people].. ALL THINGS that pertainunto life and godliness…” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV). 

Nothing is more precious that the power of choice, but it comes with the responsibility of accepting whatever the consequences are of one’s actions. The heart is the information center and it is also home of the human will. Human will is the ONE’S power of choice given to every man and woman by God. Thus, the information that goes into the heart, stays in the heart, or leaves the heart is the CHOICE of the human will. The redeemed soul is responsible for “choosing” to  RENEW his or her OWN MIND. “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….”(Romans 12:2 KJV). It is “their” mind given to them by God. Whether they remain influenced by the sinful nature or become influenced by the indwelling Holy Spirit is a CHOICE. If the redeemed soul allows “their” mind to remain UNRENEWED they are choosing to accept, whatever the consequences are, of their actions or choices. 

The redeemed soul that doesn’t live and walk in the FREEDOM that the Word of God promises will blame God, his word, the church, church folks, hypocrites, clergy, other church members, the environment, circumstances, trials, tribulations, and anything or anybody else, but themselves. Regardless of who or what a person believes to be the blame for their choices, accepting the responsible for their part in the DECISION can’t be avoided. The redeemed soul has information within their hearts influenced by the Evil One. If they choose to follow that information they are the ones CHOOSING to do so and are willing participates. They have options and can accept the responsibility to do something DIFFERENT like RENEWING their hearts(minds). IT’S A PERSONAL CHOICE!“… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….”(Romans 12:2 KJV).  

 “...letting your sinful nature control your mind (is a choice and) leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind (is also a choice and) leads to life and peace...” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT).“…The sinful nature (flesh) wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the [Holy] Spirit wants ...These TWO FORCES are constantly fighting each other, so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions...” (Galatians 5 NLT). “...letting your sinful nature control your mind (is a CHOICE that) leads to death...” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT).

THE SINFUL NATURE BIBLE STUDY, PART 2 (QUESTIONS)

 

THE SINFUL NATURE, BIBLE STUDY, PART 2

THE QUESTIONS

“... When Adam sinned (choose to transgress God’s Holy law), sin (the enslaving symptoms of the flesh nature) entered the world. Adam’s sin (transgression) brought [spiritual] ... death (separation from God, the Holy Spirit).... [THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV)] ...so [spiritual] ... death (physical existence without God) spread to everyone...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT).

“….I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).  “...I want to dowhat is right, but I can’t.I want to do what is good, but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…For all have sinned (all have the flesh 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).

“…Who will free mefrom this life that is dominated by SIN? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (the WORD OF GOD)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  “…if the Son (Jesus Christ, the indwelling Holy Spirit)…shall make you FREE, ye shall be FREE indeed.” (John 8:36 KJV).

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          SCRIPTURE:  “...Now I know without a doubt “….I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).  “...I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good,but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by SIN? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (the WORD OF GOD)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  

PURPOSE OR GOAL OF LESSON: TO LEARN THAT THE SOUL(YOU) ARE FREE FROM THE BONDAGE OF THE SINFUL NATURE. THE WORD OF GOD HAS SET YOUR SOUL FREE, INDEED.

APPLICATION OF LESSON:  TO TRUST AND DEPEND UPON THE POWERFUL WORD OF GOD THAT EMPOWERS YOUR SOUL(YOU) TO LIVE AND WALK FREE FROM THE BONDAGE AND IMPRISONMENT OF THE SINFUL NATURE.

TOPIC DISCUSSION: DISCUSS HOW THE SOUL IS SET FREE FROM THE CONTROL OF THE SINFUL NATURE AND HOW THE WORD OF GOD EMPOWERS THE REDEEMED SOUL (YOU) TO WALK AND LIVE IN “THAT” FREEDOM. “…Who will free me (my soul) from this ...[fleshly, carnal]... life that is dominated by SIN (the BODY OF FLESH)? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (the WORD OF GOD)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

ANSWERS IN YESTERDAY'S BLOG:  https://therelationshipwithgod.blogsp...

 THE FREED SOUL

1.  HOW IS THE SOUL FREED FROM THE BONDAGE AND IMPRISONMENT OF THE SINFUL NATURE? “…Who will free me (my soul) from this ...[fleshly, carnal]... life that is dominated by SIN (the BODY OF FLESH OR SINFUL NATURE)? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (the WORD OF GOD)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). IT IS OBVIOUS GOD’S PEOPLE “STILL” DO SINFUL THINGS, SO WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE “FREED” FROM SIN?“…if the Son (Jesus Christ, the indwelling Holy Spirit)…shall make you FREE, ye shall be FREE indeed.” (John 8:36 KJV).WHY DOES GOD PUT A SOUL IN A BODY WHILE UPON EARTH? WHAT FIVE THINGS DID GOD GIVE THE BODY TO ASSIST THE SOUL IN ENGAGING WITH THE NATURAL WORLD AND PEOPLE? WHAT ARE THOSE FIVE SENSES?WHILE THE SOUL IS INTERACTING WITH THE NATURAL WORLD AND PEOPLE WHAT ELSE IS THE SOUL DOING? WHERE DOES THE SOUL STORE THE INFORMATION IT LEARNS FROM THE NATURAL WORLD AND PEOPLE? WHAT CAN THE SOUL LEARN FROM SIGHT? WHAT CAN THE SOUL LEARN ABOUT SOUND? WHAT CAN THE SOUL LEARN ABOUT TASTE? WHAT CAN THE SOUL LEARN ABOUT SMELL? WHAT CAN THE SOUL LEARN ABOUT TOUCH?  THE SOUL, THROUGH THE FIVE SENSES LEARN AND EXPERIENCE “ALL” THESE THINGS FROM THE WORLD. WHAT IS THE PROBLEM WITH THE WORLD “...We know … that the whole world lies underthe power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV). “.. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world...” (1 John 2:16-17 NLT).

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2.     THE SOUL LEARNS AND EXPERIENCES, THROUGH THE FIVE SENSES, ABOUT A WORLD UNDER THE POWER AND INFLUENCE OF EVIL ONE. DOES THAT MEAN THE INFORMATION (GOOD AND BAD) STORED IN THE HEART (MIND) OF THE SOUL IS TAINTED BY THE EVIL ONE?“...We know … that the whole world lies underthe power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV). “…There is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not…” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV). “… [ALL have become]…..unclean and [their so-called] righteousnesses (efforts to BE good is) as filthy rags….” (Isaiah 64:6 KJV). THE SOUL IS LEARNING FROM AND EXPERIENCING LIFE IN A WORLD UNDER THE POWER OF THE EVIL ONE. EVEN IF THE SOUL IS A VERY MORAL AND ETHICAL SOUL, WHY IS THEIR “GOODNESSES” STILL AS
FILTHY RAGS? “… [ALL have become]…..unclean and [their so-called] righteousnesses (efforts to BE good is) as filthy rags….” (Isaiah 64:6 KJV). “…There is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not…” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV). “…The [flesh OR SINFUL]...nature  ... never did obey God’s laws, and it never will…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “...We know … that the whole world lies under the power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV). LET’S STOP AND LEARN WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS ABOUT MANKIND BEING A SOUL. WHEN GOD FINISHED CREATING MANKIND, WHAT DID HE(SHE) BECOME?“…And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground (body),and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (Holy Spirit); and man became a living soul (soul)…”(GENESIS 2:7 KJV). DOES THE FOLLOWING SCRIPTURES REFER TO THE SOUL AS A PERSON, A WHO, OR A SELF? “...Ye shall keep the sabbath therefore ... for WHOsoever doeth any work therein, THAT SOUL shall be cut off from among his people...” (Exodus 31:14 KJV). “...and souls of men...” (Revelation 18:13 KJV).“.. and man(woman) becamea living soul (soul)…”(GENESIS 2:7 KJV). WHEN JESUS CAME TO SEEK AND SAVE THE LOST. DID HE COME TO SAVE BODIES OR SOULS? “…The Son of man came to seek and to save THAT WHICH WAS LOST…” (Luke 19:10 KJV). “...Believeon the Lord Jesus Christ (God’s living Word), and thou shalt be saved…” (ACTS 16:31 KJV).  “...receive the word ...which is able to save your souls...” (James 1:21 KJV). “...those (people) who had received his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls...” (Acts 2:41 KJV). WHEN IT COMES TO LEADING SOMEONE TO JESUS CHRIST, WHO DOES THE BIBLE SAY IS WISE? “...he (she) that winneth SOULS is wise...” (Proverbs 11:30 KJV). “...he (she) who turns a sinner (leads that person to Jesus) from the error of his (her) way will save his(her) soul from death...” (James 5:20 KJV).

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3.  WHAT HAS INFLUENCED EVERYTHING THE SOUL LEARNS AND EXPERIENCES IN THE NATURAL WORLD? “...the whole world lies underthe power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV). THE SOUL MAKES DECISIONS AND YIELDS TO THE INFORMATION STORED IN THEIR HEARTS(MINDS). WHY CAN THAT BECOME A PROBLEM? “…Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (Romans 6:16 KJV). “…The [flesh]...nature ... never did obey God’s laws, and it never will…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).“...the whole world lies underthe power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV). THE INFORMATION STORED IN THE HEART(MIND) OF THE SOUL IS FILTERED THROUGH THE SINFUL NATURE, FIRST. DOES THE SINFUL NATURE DOMINATE THE SOUL? WHEN THE SINFUL NATURE DOMINATES THE SOUL, CAN IT BECOME RIGHTEOUS OR HOLY ON ITS OWN? WHY OR WHY NOT? “…The ... [flesh OR SINFUL]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).   “...I am all too human (TOO MUCH A SINFUL NATURE), a slave to ...(the sinful nature through the five senses) ...I want to dowhat is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the (sinful nature through the senses) that is … (stored) within me (from information stored within my heart, mind, etc.) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  SINCE THE SINFUL NATURE DOESN’T OBEY - NEVER HAS AND NEVER WILL- AND IT DOMINATES THE SOUL, CAN THE SOUL FREELY CHOOSE TO OBEY GOD? “...I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). HOW CAN THE SOUL BE FREED FROM THE BONDAGE, DOMINATION, AND IMPRISONMENT OF THE SINFUL NATURE?“…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by SIN? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  

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4.     EVEN IF THE SOUL WANTS TO DO RIGHT OR BE GOOD, IS IT POSSIBLE? WHY OR WHY NOT? “...I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by SIN? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). NAME ONE OR MORE OF THE FIVE SENSES THAT THE EVIL ONE USED TO TEMPT EVE IN THE GARDEN. “BUT“…The woman ...sawthat the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked delicious, and she wanted the wisdom it would give her. So she took some of the fruit and ate it...” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). THE SOUL HAD INFORMATION “STORED” IN EVE’S HEART ABOUT THE TREE AND THE FRUIT. How did the devil misuse that information to tempt eve? “…The woman [became] ... convinced (THROUGH SOUND) [to eat from the tree, anyway]... She saw (SIGHT) that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked (LUST of the EYES) delicious (TASTE), and she wanted(LUST of the FLESH) the wisdom (PRIDE of LIFE) it would give her. So she took (TOUCH) some of the fruit and ate it (TASTE)...” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). “….She [choose to take] (human will) ... some of the fruit and [eat] ... IT.Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and HE ATE IT, too …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). WHAT DOES GOD TELL HIS PEOPLE TO DO IN ORDER TO FILL THEIR HEARTS(MIND) WITH “NEW” INFORMATION in order to fight the tricks of the devil?“… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind (hearts)….”(Romans 12:2 KJV). THE SINFUL NATURE CAN’T CHANGE ITS NATURE AND IT WILL NEVER OBEY GOD. IT CAN DOMINATE THE SOUL SO LONG UNTIL THE SOUL HAS THE SAME PROBLEM as the flesh. HOWEVER, HOW CAN THE SOUL BECOME FREED from the sinful nature? “…Can an Ethiopian change his skin or a leopard its spots? Neither can you do good who are accustomed to doing evil…” (Jeremiah 13:23 NIV). “...I want to dowhat is right, but I can’t…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).“…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

5.     ONCE JESUS HAS FREED THE SOUL FROM THE SINFUL NATURE, how can they stay free? “...I am all too human, a slave to sin (the body of flesh through the five senses) ...I want to dowhat is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature or body of flesh through the five senses) that is … within me (within my heart, mind, etc.) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).“…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin?…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… apart from Me you can do nothing…” (John 15:4-6 NASB). “…God ...the … HOLY SPIRIT .. is the SOURCE of ...[walking in freedom]…it is …God who does the work IN and THROUGH all of ...[HIS people]... The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (to walking in freedom from the sinful nature) THROUGH each of us … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…the Father that dwelleth in [YOU] … he doeth the works..[of empowering his people to walk in freedom]…” (John 14:10 KJV). GOD’S INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT EMPOWERS THE SOUL TO DO RIGHT AND TO DO GOOD. WHAT DOES IT MEAN THAT YOU (SOUL) ARE “ACCUSTOMED” TO DOING EVIL? “…Can an Ethiopian change his skin or a leopard its spots? Neither can you do good who are accustomed to doing evil…” (Jeremiah 13:23 NIV). “… from within, out of the heart (MIND) of man (woman), proceed evil thoughts (INFORMATION FROM THE NATURAL WORLD, WHICH IS UNDER THE POWER OF THE EVIL ONE)…these … come from within...” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV). “…SIN (EVIL) IS the transgression of the law (violation of God’s instruction)….” (1 John 3:4 KJV).“…The sinful nature (flesh) wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the [Holy] Spirit wants ...These TWO FORCES are constantly fighting each other, so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions...” (Galatians 5 NLT).

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6.  WHEN A LOST SOUL IS SAVED, THAT SOUL BECOMES A NEW CREATION. THAT SOUL IS COMPLETELY FREE TO CHOOSE TO LIVE A GOOD AND RIGHTEOUS LIFE. HOWEVER, THE SOUL IS SO ACCUSTOMED TO DOING EVIL, IT IS HARD TO TRUST AND DEPEND UPON WHAT? “…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). “...For in him we live, and move, and have our being (identity); as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring...” (Acts 17:28 KJV). THE SOUL IS SAVED, BUT THE INFORMATION WITHIN THE HEART(MIND) IS THE SAME. WHAT DOES THE BIBLE INSTRUCT THE SOUL TO DO IN ORDER TO COMPLETELY TRANSFORM INT0 THE NEW CREATION THEY’VE BECOME? “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind (BY RENEW THE INFORMATION IN THE HEART)….”(Romans 12:2 KJV). IF THE SOUL DOESN’T CHOOSE TO RENEW THE INFORMATION STORED IN THE HEART(WHICH FEEDS INFORMATION TO THE MIND), WHAT DOES THE SINFUL NATURE CONTINUE TO DO TO THEM?“...letting your sinful nature ...[CONTINUALLY]... control your mind(THROUGH “OLD” INFORMATION STORED WITHING THE HEART) leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind (THROUGH “NEW” INFORMATION PUT INTO YOUR HEART BY JESUS, God’s word) leads to life and peace...” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT). “…The sinful nature (flesh) wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the [Holy] Spirit wants ...These TWO FORCES are constantly fighting each other, so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions...” (Galatians 5 NLT). “… Be transformed...”(Romans 12:2 KJV). “… by the renewing ...”(Romans 12:2 KJV). “… of your mind (HEART)….”(Romans 12:2 KJV). THE SOUL HAS BECOME A NEW CREATION INDWELLED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT, BUT THE SOUL WAS ACCUSTOMED TO DOING EVIL BECAUSE OF THE INFORMATION STORED IN THEIR HEART(by the old nature). Thus, WITHOUT RENEWING THAT INFORMATION, how WILL THE SOUL BE ABLE TO LIVE TO PLEASE GOD? “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind (by putting new information into the HEART from god’s “powerful” word)….”(Romans 12:2 KJV). “…The sinful nature (the body of flesh through the FIVE SENSES) wants to do evil ... so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions...” (Galatians 5 NLT). “…Can an Ethiopian change his skin or a leopard its spots? Neither can you do good who are accustomed to doing evil…” (Jeremiah 13:23 NIV).“…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin?…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…The answer is in Jesus Christ (THE LIVING WORD OF) our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… apart from Me (THE WORD OF GOD) you can do nothing…” (John 15:4-6 NASB). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…the Spirit of God dwell in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). “…Christ in you, …” (Colossians 1:27 KJV).

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7.  BEFORE SALVATION, THE HEART( which feeds the MIND) OF THE SOUL IS TOTALLY INFORMED BY THE EVIL ONE’S WORLD. THE SOUL, BECAUSE OF THE SINFUL NATURE, therefore, HAS BECOME TOTALLY ACCUSTOMED TO DOING EVIL. ACCORDING TO THE NEXT TWO VERSES, WHAT DOES THE BIBLE TELL THE CONVERTED SOUL TO DO? “…be conformed to the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV). “…Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). IN ORDER TO BE SET FREE FROM THE BONDAGE AND IMPRISONMENT OF THE SINFUL NATURE, A LOST SOUL NEEDS TO DO WHAT? “…confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and … believe in thine heartthat God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved” (ROMANS 10:9 KJV). “Believeon the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved…” (ACTS 16:31 KJV).  “…I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God…” (ACTS 8:37 KJV). “…. 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). ONCE JESUS COMES INTO THE HEART OF THE SOUL, WHAT DOES JESUS DO TO ENABLE THEM TO LIVE FREE FROM THE PREVIOUS BONDAGE AND IMPRISONMENT OF THE SINFUL NATURE?  “…Christ liveth in [the redeemed SOUL]…” (Galatians 2:20 KJV).“….OLD THINGS (life without the indwelling Holy Spirit) are passed…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “... It is God (the indwelling Holy Spirit) which worketh in you both to will and to do of hisgood pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). “… the God of peace… that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in [you, through the indwelling Holy Spirit]… what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…The …HOLY SPIRIT …is the SOURCE of [all freedom from the sin nature]. …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). SO CAN THE REDEEMED SOUL TRUST AND DEPEND UPON GOD, through jesus, TO “ALWAYS” HELP THEM LIVE AND WALK IN FREEDOM FROM THE SINFUL NATURE?  “…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 helps us in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “…You are my helper and my savior…” (Psalms 40:17 NLT). “…My Presence will go with you…” (Exodus 33:14 NIV). “…I am with you always, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV). “… [God will] … Never leave nor forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5 KJV). “…He will keep you strong to the end…” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT).

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8.     WHEN JESUS, THE WORD (GOD’S INFORMATION) COMES INTO THE HEART OF THE SOUL, IT COMES “LIKE” A SEED. WHAT CAN THE SOUL CHOOSE TO DO IN ORDER TO ASSIST THE “SEED” IN GROWING? “…… THE WORD …was sown in THEIR HEARTS…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). “… …The seed is the WORD OF GOD …” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). The SEED is WATERED by the HOLY SPIRIT, so it can GROW and produce fruit in the life of the redeemed soul. “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). God, the Holy Spirit represents a type of water and is referred as a “...spring of living water...” (Jeremiah 2:13 KJV).“… …The seed is the WORD OF GOD…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). The bible says, “....I (God, the Holy Spirit) will pour my Spirit upon THY SEED...” (Isaiah 44:3 KJV). “…The Holy Spirit  produces  ...(spiritual) fruit in [y]our lives….” (Galatians 5 NLT). 

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________10. With the help and empowerment of the indwelling holy spirit, what can the soul discipline the sinful nature to do? “... discipline [your] ... body and make it [your]... slave...” (1 Corinthians 9:27 NASB). IF THE SOUL DOESN’T DISCIPLINE THE BODY AND MAKE IT YIELD TO GOD’S COMMAND, WITH THE HELP OF THE indwelling HOLY SPIRIT, WILL THE SINFUL NATURE OBEY GOD ON ITS OWN? “…The sinful natureis always hostile to God. …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).“…The sinful nature...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “…those who are still under the control of their sinful nature (through the old heart and mind) can never please God. …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). IS THE REDEEMED SOUL CONTROLLED BY SINFUL NATURE BY FORCE OR BY CHOICE NOW? WHY OR WHY NOT?“…you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “… (Christ lives within you, so even though your body (flesh/sinful nature) will die because of sin, the [indwelling Holy] ... Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God (reunited with God, the Holy Spirit). The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you. …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).“…Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do (through the dictates of your five senses) what your sinful nature urges you to do.For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit (the 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 indwelling Holy Spirit) are children of God…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

THE POWER OF THE WORD

9.       JESUS HAS ANOTHER NAME, WHAT IS IT? “… His name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB) What Jesus, the word of god, do for the soul dominated by the sinful nature? “…Who will free mefrom this lifethat is dominated by (the old heart and mind which was affected and polluted by) SIN(FUL NATURE)? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (THE WORD of GOD)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… His name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “…THE WORDS ... they ARE SPIRIT…” (John 6:63 KJV). WHEN THE SOUL IS REDEEMED, WHERE IS THE WORD OF GOD PLANTED? IN WHAT FORM IS THE WORD OF GOD PLANTED? “…The seed is the WORD OF GOD….. THE WORD …was sown in THEIR HEARTS…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). THE WORD OF GOD POWERFULly produces new INFORMATIOn that can EMPOWER THE SOUL, THROUGH THE indwelling spiritual seed. HOW CAN THE SOUL CHOOSE TO WATER THE spiritual SEED, WITHIN THEIR HEARTS, in order to help it grow to produced spiritual fruit? “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “…THE WORDS ... they ARE SPIRIT,…”(John 6:63 KJV). “...God, the Holy Spiritrepresents a type of water and is referred to as a “...spring of living water...” (Jeremiah 2:13 KJV).“… …The seed is ALSO the WORD OF GOD …” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). The bible says, “....I (God, the Holy Spirit) will pour my Spirit upon THY SEED...” (Isaiah 44:3 KJV). GOD PLANTS THE SEED, WITHIN THE HEART OF THE REDEEMED SOUL. GOD, the holy spirit, through jesus, his word, supplies the water for the seed. GOD, the holy spirit, through jesus also ENABLEs THE SEED TO GROW. WHO is doing the work of planting the seed, supplying the water, and enabling growth? “…It is …God [the indwelling Holy Spirit] ... who does the work IN and THROUGH all of us who are his… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…Ye shall know [those with the indwelling Holy Spirit]… by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV). “…The [indwelling]...HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH [the redeemed soul] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “...the Holy Spirit produces ... fruit in [their]... lives…” (Galatians 5 NLT). “... ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit...” (1 Peter 1:22 KJV). WHAT WORK IS THE REDEEMED SOUL INSTRUCTED, TO CHOOSE, TO DO IN ORDER FOR THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT TO WORK “IN” AND “THROUGH” THEM? “…Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths...” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).  “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). “...Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.  I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing....” (John 15:1-10 KJV). “…Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God...” (Roman 10:17 KJV).

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________11.  JESUS IS THE WORD OF GOD. HOW MUCH POWER DOES THE WORD HAVE? “… Jesus (the WORD of GOD) …came and SPAKE, unto them saying, “All POWER is given unto me (the word) IN heaven and earth…” (Matthew 28:18 KJV). HOW IS THE REDEEMED SOUL INSTRUCTED TO BE TRANSFORMED? “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind ….”(Romans 12:2 KJV). WHY IS THE WORD OF GOD NECESSARY TO RENEW THE MIND?  IS THE SOUL ALREADY FREED?. “...Jesus (THE WORD) saith…I am ... the truth…” (John 14:6 KJV). .“… thy (GOD’S) word (JESUS) is truth…” (JOHN 17:17 KJV). “… The Spirit of truth (the Holy Spirit) …will guide you into all the truth. …” (John 16:13 NIV). “…The truth shall MAKE YOU FREE…” (JOHN 8:32 KJV). AND “…If the Son (the word) therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed (without a doubt!!)…” (John 8:36 KJV). IF THE REDEEMED SOUL IS FREE FROM THE BONDAGE AND IMPRISONMENT OF THE SINFUL NATURE, IS THAT SOUL STILL CONTROLLED BY THE SINFUL NATURE, is it EMPOWERED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT, OR DOES IT DEPEND UPON THEIR WILLFUL CHOICE? “…you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind(the renewing of the mind will empower you to take authority, through the indwelling Holy Spirit, over the sinful nature by walking and living in freedom from sin)...” (Romans 12:2 KJV). Otherwise, “….you [will become] ... slaves of the one you obey (follow)…”(Romans 6:16 NIV).  “…The sinful natureis always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________12. The soul is set free and restored to what?“…He (jesus, the word) restoreth my SOUL…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “…the Holy Spirit gives birth to (or restores) SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT).  God is a “…restorer of thy life…” (Ruth 4:15 KJV). “…The law of the LORD (the WORD of God) is perfect, restoring the SOUL…” (Psalm 19 NASB). “….He (the WORD OF GOD) restorethmy soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “…I (God, the holy spirit) will restore…” (Jeremiah 30:17 KJV).  “….Jesus Christ (the WORD of GOD) maketh thee WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “... and man became a living soul (again) …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV). THE SOUL WAS ACCUSTOMED TO DOING EVIL. THE INFORMATION WITHin THE HEART was ACCUSTOMED TO receiving it from the world. WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY COMES “out” of THE HEART? “…from within, out of the heart of man (woman), proceed evil thoughts… wickedness…” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV). “…All these evil things come from within, and defile a person.” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV).WHAT DOES GOD LOOK AT; YOUR ACTIONS OR YOUR 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). “…No one needed… to tell him about human nature, for he knew what was in each person’s heart…” (John 2:24-25 NLT). “…Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men…” (Acts 1:24 KJV). “… He watches everyone closely, examining every person on earth. The Lordexaminesboth the righteous and the wicked…” (Psalm 11:4-5 NLT). ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

13.THE HEART OF THE SOUL IS THE INFORMATION CENTER AND HAS RECEIVED “ALL” ITS LEARNING AND EXPERIENCE FROM A WORLD THAT IS UNDER THE POWER AND INFLUENCE OF THE EVIL ONE. WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT THE HEART? “…[The heart]...is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked…who can know it…” (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV).  "… out of the abundance of the heart (information center of the SOUL) the mouth speaks. The good man, out of his good treasure, brings forth good things, and the evil man, out of his evil treasure, brings forth evil things." (Matthew 12:34-35). GOD PLANTS A SEED WITHIN THE HEART OF THE REDEEMED SOUL. WHAT IS THAT SEED CALLED? “...The seed is ALSO the WORD OF GOD …” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). HOW CAN THAT “SEED” BE WATERED AND GROW? “...God, the Holy Spirit represents a type of water and is referred to as a “...spring of living water...” (Jeremiah 2:13 KJV).“… … The bible says, “....I (God, the Holy Spirit) will pour my Spirit upon THY SEED...” (Isaiah 44:3 KJV). “…THE WORDS (OF GOD) ... they ARE SPIRIT,…” (John 6:63 KJV). “...[Jesus’]... name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “…Jesus Christ (the Word of God) is in you (the Word is “in” the heart of the redeemed soul)…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “ ….. THE WORD …was sown in THEIR HEARTS…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). “ …[you]…have this treasure in [your]…earthen vessel (body of flesh)...” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV). Thus, “…Christ [THE WORD dwells] in your hearts by faith …” (Ephesians 3:17 KJV). “…THE WORDS ... they ARE SPIRIT…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The [Holy] Spirit of God dwell[s] in you (in the heart of the redeemed soul)…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).   

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14.IN ORDER TO LIVE AND WALK IN FREEDOM, WHAT CAN A REDEEMED SOUL WILLFULLY CHOOSE TO Do? “…Trust in (and DEPEND UPON) the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto (DON’T DEPEND UPON) thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). WHAT WILL GOD, the indwelling Holy Spirit, DO FOR THE REDEEMED SOUL THAT WILLFULLY CHOOSES TO TRUST AND DEPEND UPON HIM? “…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 helps us in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “…You are my helper and my savior…” (Psalms 40:17 NLT). “…The LORD will accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [you]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “…The steps (OF DELIVERANCE) of a good man are ordered (DIRECTED) by the Lord: …” (Psalms 37:23 KJV). GOD HAS SET THE SOUL FREE. WILL HE ALSO DELIVER THEM TOTALLY FROM THE LINGERING INFLUENCES OF THE SINFUL NATURE? “… THE LORD … is Your rock and Yourfortress, your deliverer…” (Psalms 18:3 NASB).“…BY THE WORD of the Lord ... [YOU are delivered from ALL bondage of the sinful nature] …” (Psalms 33:6 NASB).

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THE SINFUL NATURE BIBLE STUDY, PART 1

THE SINFUL NATURE BIBLE STUDY, PART 1

          SCRIPTURE:  “...Now I know without a doubt “….I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).  “...I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good,but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by SIN? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (the WORD OF GOD)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  

PURPOSE OR GOAL OF LESSON: TO LEARN THAT THE SOUL(YOU) ARE FREE FROM THE BONDAGE OF THE SINFUL NATURE. THE WORD OF GOD HAS SET YOUR SOUL FREE, INDEED.

APPLICATION OF LESSON:  TO TRUST AND DEPEND UPON THE POWERFUL WORD OF GOD THAT EMPOWERS YOUR SOUL(YOU) TO LIVE AND WALK FREE FROM THE BONDAGE AND IMPRISONMENT OF THE SINFUL NATURE.

TOPIC DISCUSSION: DISCUSS HOW THE SOUL IS SET FREE FROM THE CONTROL OF THE SINFUL NATURE AND HOW THE WORD OF GOD EMPOWERS THE REDEEMED SOUL (YOU) TO WALK AND LIVE IN “THAT” FREEDOM. “…Who will free me (my soul) from this ...[fleshly, carnal]... life that is dominated by SIN (the BODY OF FLESH)? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (the WORD OF GOD)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).This is the question of the hour. The REDEEMED are FREED from sin, without a doubt, but why do they still struggle with the sin nature? “…if the Son (Jesus Christ, the indwelling Holy Spirit)…shall make you FREE, ye shall be FREE indeed.” (John 8:36 KJV). 

 LET’S DO A REVIEW: REMEMBER The BODY of flesh is given to us by God to participate in the activities of the natural world. Through the body of flesh, the soul can EXPERIENCE, ENGAGE, AND INTERACT WITH everything in the natural world. The body enables the soul to experience, engage and interact with the natural world through the FIVE SENSES (sight, smell, sound, taste, touch). 

When the body is ENGAGED through the FIVE SENSES it ENABLES the SOUL to learn and experience THINGS in the natural world. The FIVE SENSES enables the SOUL to learn and experience THINGS in the natural world by sending INFORMATION to the heart (brain), which informs the thoughts. The heart (brain), the information center, helps the soul perceive, learn about, store information from the world by experiencing things “in” the natural world. 

 For example, SIGHT has visual influence in learning through image reinforcements that simulate the brain (heart). HEARINGhelps with associations that teach the sounds of a bird chirping, to the waves in the oceans, or music on a radio. HEARING also helps with active learning such as reading, speaking, or focusing on what is being said. TASTE also helps with teaching associations between various foods and the diversity of cuisines. In addition, TASTE helps in teaching one to discriminate between what they like and dislike when it comes to specific preferences. SMELL has a powerful influence on learning because it activates the brain (heart) to trigger new memories, or bring up memories from many years ago, or those made just yesterday, or only moments ago. TOUCH plays an important role in experimental learning because it requires direct contact with something or someone. Further, TOUCH has a powerful influence on learning, because it can heavily affect the brain (heart), often in the pleasure center, by stimulating emotions that release oxytocin or endorphins that motivate the desire to repeat certain actions over and over again. 

However, “ALL” of your FIVE SENSES have been AFFECTED by the EVIL ONE. “...We know … that the whole world lies under the power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV).“.. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world...” (1 John 2:16-17 NLT).

The FIVE SENSES enable the SOUL to learn and experience THINGS in the natural world which will influence HOW they MAKE decisions and choices. The body of flesh is ACTIVATED by the FIVE SENSES. The FIVE SENSES will DICTATE how the body of flesh engages, interacts, and experiences the natural world, which will INFLUENCE how the SOUL commonly, on a daily basis, engage, interact, and experience the natural world. The body of flesh was not CREATED to obey God, but to be a vessel and servant for the soul and at one time, the SPIRIT too. “…The [flesh]...nature  ... never did obey God’s laws, and it never will…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). 

 Therefore, the body of flesh cannot and will NOT obey God, but it will OBEY the FIVE SENSES by engaging, interacting, and experiencing the natural world as it was CREATED to do. Left to itself, the body of flesh, without the HOLY SPIRIT, can become totally depraved, ungoverned, rebellious, and out of control, through the FIVE SENSES,  taking the SOUL along with it! “…The [flesh]...nature  ... never did obey God’s laws, and it never will…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).  

Thus, the problem, with the body of flesh, COMES because the natural WORLD, which  is FILLED with LUST and PRIDE and worldly desires DOESN’T come from God.“.. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” (1 John 2:16-17 NLT). 

 The body of flesh engages, interacts, and experiences the world through the five senses, but the world is under the power and influence of the evil one. The soul, therefore, is engaging, interacting, and experiencing natural life within a world which leads them inadvertently toward obedience to the evil one whose ONLY goal is to enslave them through the flesh and their five senses. “...We know … that the whole world lies underthe power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV). 

 The body of flesh, through the FIVE SENSES, enables the soul to engage, interact, and experience the natural world. The natural world heavily influences them to learn and make decisions based on the information sent to the heart (brain) from “that” world, which is under the power of the EVIL ONE. “...the whole world lies under the power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV). The soul becomes inadvertently obedient to the evil one, through the five senses and thus become HIS willing servants THROUGH the body of flesh (sinful nature).“…Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (Romans 6:16 KJV).“…The [flesh]...nature ... never did obey God’s laws, and it never will…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). 

 Before salvation, the body of flesh “IS” controlled by the evil one, through the five senses, in ALL areas of life.  Thus, the body of flesh develops strongholds, such as habits, obsessions, addictions, religion, pretense, and bad memories, to ensure the evil one’s continual dictatorship over man’s SOUL. “...the whole world lies underthe power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV). 

These formations of behavior, influenced by the EVIL ONE’s carnal world by  using the flesh and its five senses, become automatic behaviors. These automatic behaviors over long periods of time and usage become established behaviors. These automatic behaviors are often done, without total awareness one is doing them or without permission from the SOUL. The SOUL may WANT to do right, but it CAN’T. “…The ... [flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “...I am all too human, a slave to ... (the sinful nature through the senses) ...I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature through the senses) that is … within me (within my heart, mind, etc.)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  “…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by SIN? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). 

 The evil one uses and puts into your intimate and immediate environments, all kinds of triggers that continually reinforce and condition sinful behavior, involving one or more of the five senses. These triggers work by dictating how the body of flesh engages the soul with the things of the natural world. These triggers also aid in the evil one’s ability to control, influence, and dictate destructive behavior, that will involve one or more of the five senses, using the body of flesh, of course, while imprisoning the soul at the same time (classical conditioning). “...I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  “…Who will free me from this lifethat is dominated by (the old heart and mindset which was affected and polluted by the) SIN(ful nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (the indwelling Holy Spirit and THE WORD of GOD)…” (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).“… …The seed is the WORD OF GOD ….. THE WORD …was sown in THEIR HEARTS…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV).The Word becomes the POWERFUL and LIFE-CHANGING information that produces spiritual FRUIT “IN” their hearts, which renews their minds, and transforms their behavior. “…It is …God [the indwelling Holy Spirit] ... who does the work IN and THROUGH all of us who are his… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…Ye shall know [those with the indwelling Holy Spirit]… by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV). “…The [indwelling]...HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH [the redeemed] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “...the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in [their]... lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control…” (Galatians 5 NLT). 

 “… Jesus (the WORD of GOD) …came and SPAKE, unto them saying, “All POWER is given unto me (the word) IN heaven and earth…” (Matthew 28:18 KJV). “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind (through the revelatory information and knowledge of the WORD)….”(Romans 12:2 KJV). “…If the Son (the word) therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed (without a doubt!!)…” (John 8:36 KJV). Jesus made YOU (your SOUL) free from SIN (the sinful nature). It DOESN’T matter whether you are  STILL within the body of flesh or not; you (your SOUL) can FREELY choose “NOT” to let “that” old nature CONTROL you anymore. “…you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

“… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind(the renewing of the mind(heart) will empower you to take authority over the sinful nature by directing righteous behavior)...” (Romans 12:2 KJV). Otherwise, “….you [will become or continue to be] ... slaves of the one you obey (follow)…” (Romans 6:16 NIV). Your body of flesh was NOT set FREE. It will NOT obey God and it will NOT help YOU obey God. “…The sinful natureis always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). YOU (the SOUL) WERE SET FREE! 

 It is your SOUL that was set FREE and RESTORED to its original spiritual POWER. “…He restoreth my SOUL…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “…the Holy Spirit gives birth to (or restores) SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT).  God is a “…restorer of thy life…” (Ruth 4:15 KJV). “…The law of the LORD (the WORD of God) is perfect, restoring the SOUL…” (Psalm 19 NASB). “….He (the WORD OF GOD) restorethmy soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “…I (God, the holy spirit) will restore…” (Jeremiah 30:17 KJV).  “….Jesus Christ (the WORD of GOD) maketh thee WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “... and man became a living soul (again) …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV). 

The SOUL is EMPOWERED by whatever is in the HEART(mind), which informs the thoughts. The thoughts direct behavior. “…from within, out of the heart of man (woman), proceed evil thoughts… wickedness…” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV). The thoughts (righteous or evil) direct a person’s behavior. “…All these evil things come from within, and defile a person.” (Mark 7:21-23 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 about human nature, for he knew what was in each person’s heart…” (John 2:24-25 NLT). “…Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men…” (Acts 1:24 KJV). “… He watches everyone closely, examining every person on earth. The Lordexaminesboth the righteous and the wicked…” (Psalm 11:4-5 NLT).The heart(mind) (the information center of the SOUL) “…is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked…who can know it…” (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV).  "… out of the abundance of the heart (mind)  (information center of the SOUL) the mouth speaks. The good man, out of his good treasure, brings forth good things, and the evil man, out of his evil treasure, brings forth evil things." (Matthew 12:34-35). “...[Jesus’]... name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). 

 “…Jesus Christ (the Word of God) is in you (the Word is “in” the heart (mind) of the redeemed)…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “ ….. THE WORD …was sown in THEIR HEARTS (mind)…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). “ …[you]…have this treasure in [your]…earthen vessel (body of flesh)...” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV). Thus, “…Christ [THE WORD dwells] in your hearts (minds)  by faith …” (Ephesians 3:17 KJV). “…THE WORDS ... they ARE SPIRIT…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The [Holy] Spirit of God dwell[s] in you (in the heart (mind) of the redeemed)…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).  “….Jesus Christ (the WORD of GOD) maketh thee WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “... and man(mind) became a living soul…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).  

“…you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “…the Son (the word) ... [made]... you (your soul) free, you (your soul)...[are]... free indeed …” (John 8:36 KJV). “... and man (woman) became a living soul (again!) …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV). “... free indeed …” (John 8:36 KJV).

 “...you have no obligation to do (through the dictates of your five senses) what your sinful nature urges you to do…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “… if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “…I WILL GIVE you a new heart(Jesus, the Word is sown in your heart making it new), and I willput a new spirit in you (the indwelling Holy Spirit is “IN” you)…” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT).

 “ ….. THE WORD …was sown in THEIR HEARTS (mind)…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). “…Jesus Christ is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…[you]…have this treasure in [your]…earthen vessel (body of flesh)...” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV). 

 “…It is God which worketh in you…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).  “… [Therefore, the redeemed]… are changedinto the same image [of Christ] from glory to glory …” (2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV). “…by the grace of God ... [the redeemed are what they are]…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV). “... a living soul (again!) …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV). “... free indeed …” (John 8:36 KJV).

 QUESTIONS TOMORROW, THE SINFUL NATURE, PART 2

ARE YOU FREED FROM SIN OR NOT?

“… SIN is the transgression of the ... [Holy] ... law ….” (1 John 3:4 KJV). “... When Adam sinned (chose to transgress God’s Holy law), sin (the enslaving symptoms of the flesh nature) entered the world. Adam’s sin (transgression) brought [spiritual] ... death (separation from God, the Holy Spirit). “... [ THOU SHALT SURELY DIE …” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). 

“...so [spiritual] ... death (physical existence without God) spread to everyone...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT). “...  there is a great difference between Adam’s sin and God’s gracious gift. For the sin of this one man, Adam, brought [spiritual] death to many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of forgiveness to many through this other man, Jesus Christ. And the result of God’s gracious gift is very different from the result of that one man’s sin. For Adam’s sin led to condemnation, but God’s free gift leads to our being made right with God (being restored, reconciled with the Holy Spirit again), even though we are guilty of many sins..[through the sinful nature]. For the sin (transgression of God’s holy law) of this one man, Adam, caused [spiritual]...death to rule over many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT). 

“…, my righteous servant (Jesus) ... [made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). “…[He sent the ] …one … who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).“…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole (SAVES, RESTORES , AND MAKES YOU WHOLE YOU AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “... It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm (enduring) and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery...” (Galatians 5:1 NASB). 

Adam and Eve were both, originally, MADE whole, but HAD the FREEDOM of choice. My son, Oshawn, said, the only choice they HAD - because SIN was “NOT” “opened” to them yet - was to OBEY. God’s redeemed people are made whole again and HAVE the FREEDOM of CHOICE restored to them which, through the indwelling Holy Spirit, can STRENGTHEN them to OBEY. “…Christ liveth in [you] …” (Galatians 2:20 KJV). “…I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).Therefore, “... Stand fast (keep enduring) therefore in the liberty (freedom from sin and freedom to OBEY) wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage...” (Galatians 5:1 KJV). 

 YOU HAVE BEEN FREED FROM SIN AND FREED TO OBEY. HOWEVER, YOU CAN “STILL” FREELY CHOOSE TO BECOME ENTANGLED AGAIN WITH THE YOKE OF BONDAGE, BY PRACTICING and LIVING A SINFUL, LIFESTYLE!  YOU LIVE and PRACTICE a SINFUL LIFESTYLE, NOT BECAUSE YOU HAVE TO (YOU ARE FREE FROM SIN), BUT BECAUSE YOU “CHOOSE” TO!! “…I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). 

 “…Can an Ethiopian change his skin or a leopard its spots? Neither can you do good who are accustomed to doing evil…” (Jeremiah 13:23 NIV). “...I want to dowhat is right, but I can’t…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). 

“...Who will free me from this life that is dominated by [the sin nature that is accustomed to doing evil]?” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  “…The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  “If the Son therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed…” (John 8:36 KJV). “….Apart from [the indwelling spirit],.. [you]… can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).  

ANSWER THESE FOUR QUESTIONS:  

1.      THE SOUL WAS ENSLAVED TO SIN. IT WAS UNABLE TO CHOOSE RIGHTEOUSNESS OR LIVE FREE FROM SIN, BECAUSE THE SINFUL NATURE CONTROLLED EVERYTHING THEY DID. GOD HAS FREED THE SOUL THROUGH JESUS AND TELLS THE SOUL NOT TO GET ENTANGLED AGAIN WITH WHAT? “... Stand fast (keep enduring) therefore in the liberty (freedom from sin and freedom to OBEY) wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage...” (Galatians 5:1 KJV).  

 2. WHEN JESUS CHRIST FREES THE SOUL, IS IT ANY LONGER A SLAVE TO THE SINFUL NATURE? “…I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…Can an Ethiopian change his skin or a leopard its spots? Neither can you do good who are accustomed to doing evil…” (Jeremiah 13:23 NIV). “...I want to dowhat is right, but I can’t…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).“...Who will free me from this life that is dominated by [the sin nature that is accustomed to doing evil]?” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  “…The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  

3.   according to god's word, is THE SOUL THAT HAS ACCEPTED JESUS INTO THEIR HEART "truly" FREED FROM SIN? “If the Son therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed…” (John 8:36 KJV). 

4.  CAN THE REDEEMED SOUL, FREELY CHOOSE, TO LIVE RIGHTEOUS AND FREE FROM SIN THROUGH JESUS CHRIST? “….Apart from [the indwelling spirit],.. [you]… can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).   “…I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “…God…works in you TO WILL and TO ACT in order to fulfill his good purpose…” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “… God ... 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). “… The God of peace … that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip[s] you with everything good for doing his will ……” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…the Spirit of God dwell in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). “…Christ in you, …” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). “… The God of peace … that great Shepherd of the sheep…work[s] in [you]… what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).

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