10-22-2022        Jesus, the Fullness of the Godhead

                         

Who IS Jesus?  As Christians, we call Him Lord as well as Savior.  As we grow in the Lord, we come to know that He had a life, (in this world) before His ministry began which lead to our ‘salvation’.  We come to learn that He (as He walked this earth) was not just a man, but the fullness of the Godhead – all that represents God, the Father.  We also come to learn that He (in the flesh) is our brother, but did you know that when the day of judgment comes, He will be on the judges seat (He IS God). 

1 The infant Jesus

Concerning the hope of Israel, Isaiah prophesied that a child would be born and the government (misrah H4951 or power) will be upon His shoulder (shekem H7926 or burden) and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.  There shall be no end to the increase of His power and no end to His peace as He sits upon the throne of David and upon His kingdom.  He will set things in order and establish them with His judgment and justice forever.  The zeal of the Lord of Hosts will do this (Isa. 9:6-7).

Paul also reminds the Galatians that Jesus redeems us from the law by becoming the law for us in that He was crucified upon the cross (He became one of us to redeem us).  Because this promise (through faith) is for all the world and not just the Jews, Paul was made the apostle to the Gentiles (Acts 9:1-18, foc v13, Rom. 11:13).    

In order to become one of us, Jesus had to have a natural childbirth into this world.  The gospels of Matthew and Luke give us some of the details concerning the natural birth of Jesus, in the Manger.  They tell us that a young virgin, Mary, who was engaged to man, named Joseph, was to be the mother.  At the time of Jesus’ birth, his mother Mary was still a virgin as Joseph did not ‘biblically’ know (that means no marital relationship) her until after the birth of her first born son [Jesus] (Matt. 1:25).  One can read the full accounts in Matthew 1:18-25, 2:1-12 and Luke 2:1-20.  Isaiah’s prophecy fulfilled!   

According to the law, Jesus was circumcised (Lev. 12:1-3) as Luke verifies (Luke 2:21-24).  A foundation so Jesus could say that He didn’t come to destroy the law, but to fulfill it (Mart. 5:17) Jesus was born under the law and subject to the law so He could redeem us from the law (Ga. 4:4-5).

2 Coming of age

We know that when Jesus was about two years old, the wise men came from the east bearing the gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.  Herod ordered all children under two years of age to be killed, but Joseph, Mary and Jesus had already fled into Egypt (Matt. 2:1-18).  After Herod’s death the family returned to Israel and settled in Galilee, in the town of Nazareth (Matt. 2:22-23).

When Jesus was twelve year old, the family went to Jerusalem for the feast.  After the feast was over, they returned home with family and friends.  However, after a day’s journey home, they realized Jesus was not amongst the group as they had supposed.  They went back to Jerusalem looking for Him.  After three days, they found Him in the temple talking with the rabbis (teachers of the law).  Mary spoke with Jesus and asked why had he dealt with them like this.  They were worried sick!  Jesus responded “Why were you looking for me?  Didn’t you know I must be about my Father’s business?” (Luke 2:40-52).

In the bible, we don’t see anything else about Jesus until He begins His ministry.   

3 The silent years

We see that the child Jesus grew strong in spirit and wisdom and God’s grace was upon Him (Luke2:40).  And we know that Jesus continued to grow in wisdom and stature maintaining favor with both God and man (Luke 2:52).

We know that Joseph, Jesus’ ‘supposed’ father, was a carpenter and sons usually followed in the father’s trade (Matt. 13:54-56).  Take note that at this stage, Jesus was preparing to follow in His true Father’s footsteps.

We know that Jesus apparently had brothers and sisters (Matt. 12:46-47).  But, understand that the term ‘brother’ could involve half brothers and sisters or step-brothers and step-sisters. 

4 Baptism

AS part of fulfilling the Law, Jesus had to be baptized with water (by John – Matt. 3:15), but consider what happened when He was baptized.

All four gospels give an account of Jesus’ baptism by John.  John was preaching repentance and baptizing people in the Jordan.  He declared that though he baptized in water for the remission of sin, the Messiah, who was coming after him, would baptize with the Holy Ghost and fire (Matt. 3:11).  And then Jesus came.  John baptized Jesus and as He came up out of the water and the Holy Ghost descended upon Him like a dove.  (Matt. 3:13-17, Mark 1:9-11, Luke 3:15-17, 21-22), & John 1:15-18 & 28-33).

Take note that John was filled with the Holy Ghost in the womb (Luke 1:5-15) and Jesus received the Holy Ghost at His water baptism (Matt. 3:13-17).  Each needed the Holy Ghost in order to complete their given tasks.  And also consider the fact that John, himself, said that He (Jesus) must increase and I (John) must decrease (John 3:27-30).  For yourself, consider what this implies.

A quick reminder:  John baptized with water for he remission of sin (Matt. 3:11); Jesus baptized with the Holy Ghost for power (Acts 1:8, 2:1-5).  Also bear in mind that Jesus baptized no one with water, but His disciples did (John 4:1-2).

Today, we are baptized in water to signify our union with Jesus and that our sins are forgiven.  Yet, water baptism and baptism in the Holy Ghost don’t necessarily happen at the same time.  The people in Samaria received water baptism after Philip had preached to them yet Peter and John were called up from Jerusalem that these folks might receive the Holy Ghost (Acts:8:14-17).  There were twelve men Paul encountered on the road to Ephesus who had only received John’s baptism.  Paul then re-baptized them, laid hands on them and then they received the Holy Ghost (Acts 19:1-7).  Yet, Cornelius and his family received the baptism of the Holy Ghost before they were baptized in water (Acts 10:44-48). 

Take note that both water baptism and baptism in the Holy Ghost come after we believe and have received Jesus into our heart.

The Godhead

In our first paragraph we declared that Jesus is the fullness of the Godhead.  So just what does that mean?

Webster’s defines godhead as divine nature or essence or nature of God existing as three persons. 

3 Greek are words translated as godhead: theios (G2304), theiotes (G2305) & theotes (G2320) and ‘theios’ adds divinity.  All are Greek words which are derived from the root word  theos (G2316) or Supreme Being.  Note that theios is an adjective where the others are nouns.  Yet, they all refer to the fullness of the Godhead.

Paul cautions the Colossians not to be persuaded by philosophies, tradition or just plain deceit for the fullness of the Godhead dwells fully in the body of Jesus (Col. 2:8-10).

So, how do we know this?

The Father

The disciples asked Jesus to show them the Father and Jesus replied “If you have seen me, you have seen the Father!” (John 14:8-11).  Jesus forgives the sins of the man with palsy.  The Jews became indignant saying “Who does this guy think He is.  Only God can forgive sins!” (Mark 2:1-2) (paraphrase).  Jesus asks the Father that believers be one in Him as He is in the Father (John 17:1-26), indicating the unity of Father and Son.  Paul declares that Jesus considered Himself equal with God (Phil. 2”5-11).  Father declares Himself first and the last, the beginning and the end (Isa. 44:6, Isa. 48:12).  Jesus declares “I am Alpha and Omega” ( Rev. 1:8).  Alpha (G1) is first or beginning.  Omega (G5598) last letter of the Greek alphabet or the end.

When we get to “Jesus, the Word” we’ll see yet another connection to the unity of the Father and Son.

The Son

Of course, Jesus IS the Son o God`.  Is this not our whole basis for salvation? 

What did the angel Gabriel say to Mary?  “… He shall be great and be called the Son of the Highest …” (Luke1:26-33 foc v32).  Using Luke, we follow Jesus’ lineage ‘as the son of …’ through David, through Jacob, Isaac and Abraham, Enos, Seth, who was the son of Adam who was the son of God (Luke 3:23-38).  John the Baptist declares Jesus the Son of God (John 1:28-34). Peter declares Jesus the Son of God (Acts 3:11-13).  Paul declares Jesus the Son of God (Rom. 1:1-4).  The Centurion and those with him at the cross declare Jesus the Son of God (Matt. 27:46-54).  Even devils declared Jesus the Son of God (Mark 5:1-7).  Some vagabond Jews tried to cast a devil out of man and what did the devil say?  “Jesus I know and Paul I know, but whoooo are yoooou?” (Acts 19:13-16).

I love this account.  It reminds me of the Cheshire cat in ‘Alice in Wonderland’ sitting in a tree just sneering down.  My granddaughter played the Queen of Hearts (a great job) but one of her girlfriends who played the cat, in the tree – for me, stole the show!

And don’t forget with all these declaring the Sonship of Jesus, we can’t leave the Father out, “This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased!” (Matt. 3:16-17).  Any arguments on Jesus being the Son?    

The ‘Holy Spirit’

We’ve shown where Jesus and the Father are one, now we have to add the Holy Ghost into the mix.  We know that the Holy Ghost lit upon Jesus as a dove when John baptized Him (Luke 3:21-22, John 1:32).  Evidence of the Holy Ghost operating in Jesus is manifested in miracles, healings and casting out of devils.  But to get the ball rolling Jesus turns the water into wine at the wedding feast in Cana (John 2:1-11).  He feeds the 4000 (Mark 8:1-9) then later the 5000 (Matt. 14:15-21).  Now, for rthesemeals, the count is only the men present, but there were also women and children present.  Jesus showed He had power even over natural elements.  They were aboard a ship when a storm came up.  The disciples were afraid and Jesus was asleep below deck.  He rises and rebukes the wind and the sea, and the sea calmed (Matt.8:23-27). 

Jesus tells the Samaritan woman, at the well all, about her life and she believed He was indeed, the Christ (John 4:4-29).  The Holy Ghost reveals things to us (John 16:13, Luke 12:12)

Of course, Jesus healed.  Jesus went with Peter to his house where his mother-in-law lay sick of a fever.  Jesus touched her and she was healed (Matt. 8:14-17).  Jesus heals a leper and tells him to go and offer what the law requires for the healing (Mark 1:40-45).  Jesus heals the centurion’s servant.  As Jesus approached the centurion house, the centurion sent a messenger saying that his house was not worthy of Jesus.  But, being a centurion, he understood authority al all Jesus had to do was speak the word and his servant would be healed.  And it was so. Jesus commented that He had not seen such great faith in all of Israel (Luke 7:1-10).    

“Lazarus, come forth!”  Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead as He identifies Himself as the resurrection (John 11:25) (John 11:1-44, foc v40-44).  All these healings, and more are examples of the Holy Ghost operating through Jesus.

Jesus promises us, believers the Holy Ghost as well (John14:15-18).  And let’s back up two verses, Jesus says “He who believes on me shall do the same works I do and greater, because I go to the Father.”  But we had to wait for Jesus to be glorified (John 7:37-39).

Word

Genesis chapter one starts off with “In the beginning God …” and throughout the chapter God said …”.  God created by speaking.  God said “Let there be. . .” , and it was so! (Gen. 1:3, 6, 9, 11, 14, 20, 24 & 26).  “Let there be” are words so God spoke words.  The gospel of John start out with “In the beginning was the Word … was with God … was God” (John 1:1).  Then John goes on to explain that the Word is the Light of the world and was made flesh … and is the glory as the only begotten of the Father … (John 1:2-14).  Jesus is the only begotten of the Father (John 3:16).  Jesus lived on this planet for approximately 33 ½ years and He is the Word of God, ergo, He is the “living Word of God!  (Yes?) And we cannot separate Them.

Life and death are in the tongue (Prov. 18:21) and Jesus brings life (John 14:16) and God’s Word will not return void (Isa. 55:11).  So it brings life.  Unfortunately, not all will accept Jesus, but many will.  Yet we remember two things about the Word.  It is quick, powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword and it is capable of completely separating soul and spirit and the joints and marrow exposing even the thoughts and intents of the heart (Heb. 4:12).  Hey!  With God, all things are possible (Matt. 19:25-26).

Several of the apostles approached Jesus about the end times so Jesus tells them the signs. He also tells them that no man, nor angels nor the Son know when these things will happen, only the Father (Mark 13:1-37, foc v32).  Say What?  Jesus IS the Word of God!  How can He not know?  Jesus IS the Word of God.  In the beginning everything was created through Him when “God ‘said’” -  however, God never spoke when the end times would come, that is day, month year.  Even though He did give us some indications.

6 Savior/Holy One/Anointed One/Messiah

Jesus is our Savior.  If this weren’t true we’d be in trouble.

God promises Eve a savior will arise (Gen. 4:14-15).  Isaiah speaks of the origin, nature and calling of the one who will bear the sins of many (Isa. 52:13 – 53:12).

God expressed His love towards us through Jesus as our Savior (1 John 4:10-16, John 3:16) and frees us from the bondage of the law (Gal.4:4-7).  However, remember, freedom does not mean ‘no obligation’ but does transfer the law from our actions to our intents (Heb. 10:16, James 1:13-15).  Don’t forget that Jesus didn’t come to destroy the law, but to fulfill it (Matt. 5:17-18).

Consider the unity of God.  Father declares Himself Savior (Isa. 41:1-3).  And then there are witnesses to Jesus as Savior.  The angel speaks to the shepherds in the field “…born this day in the city of David a Savior who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:9-12).  Peter, after being freed from prison by an angel, was brought again before the high council and confirmed His belief that Jesus was indeed Savior (Acts5:27-32).

Jesus declares His position in the synagogue “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me … (Isa.61:1-3).  And in Luke 4:17, Jesus restates His mission “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me …” (Luke 4:17-21).  Jesus tells the woman at the well that He is the Messiah (John 4:1-29, foc v25-26).  Shortly before He raises Lazarus from the dead, Jesus tells Martha “I am the resurrection and the life …” (John 11:19-25).  He is the Messiah, the hope and promise of eternal life! 

The Cross

Jesus prophesied His own death on the cross (Matt. 20:18-19).  He fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy that He would be numbered among the transgressors as He was crucified between two malefactors (Isa. 53:12, Matt. 27:33-38).  Jesus became accursed for our sake for any who hang on a tree (punishment) is accursed (Deut. 21:22-23, Gal. 3:13).  Want the full picture of the cross?  Matt. 27:33-50, Mark 15:22-37, Luke 23:33-46, John 19:17-30.  Interested?  See what scripture says about between His death and burial: Matt. 27:51-60, Mark 15:38-47, Luke 23:47-53, John 31-42 

They knew Jesus had died because the legs of those who didn’t die in ‘short order’ had their legs broken.  He looked dead, but the soldier pierced the side of Jesus, as death produces blood and water (John 19:32-37).  There are two sacs around the heart and when the area between the sacs fill with fluid it puts pressure on the heart causing disruption of function and death.  Jesus was already dead, they didn’t have to break his legs to cause death by suffocation.

The Resurrection

Jesus died to save us but His resurrection is our promise of eternal life.  When Jesus raised Lazarus from the grave, because he had been there four days, Martha indicated that his body should have already begun decaying (John 11:39).  Psalm prophesied that the Holy One would not see corruption (Psalm 16:9-11).  Mary and the other women and Peter and John all attested to the empty grave on that day after the Sabbath (Matt. 1-7, Mark 16:1-7, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:3-9).

To assure that He had risen Jesus showed Himself to the eleven (Mark 16:1-8).  He met the eleven on the appointed mountain (Matt. 28:16), and the two men on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-31).  Also, before the apostles, as they fished and they all sat down and had a meal (John 21:4-14).  Jesus showed Himself to the disciples for forty days after the resurrection (Acts 1:2-3).

The Ascension

And of course, Jesus showed Himself just before His ascension.  His ascension is prophesied by the Psalmist (Psalm 68:18) and comes to pass as recorded in the book of Acts.  Right after He commands the disciples to stay in Jerusalem and wait for the Holy Ghost, Jesus was taken up in a cloud and out of their sight (Acts 1:9-11). As further testimony, as they stoned him, Stephen testified that he saw Jesus at the right hand of the Father (Acts 7:55-60).  Testifying that Jesus was back with the Father.

Jesus reminds us to keep in mind that He is preparing a place for us in eternity so we CAN be with Him – forever (John 14:1-4).

7 Brother

Realize it or not, Jesus is our ‘big brother’!  He is the first born into the New Covenant, of those who conform to His image (Rom. 8:28-29).

Let’s take a look at what this means.

Jesus had been speaking with the ‘multitude’ and as He spoke Mary (His mother) and brothers were outside the crowd trying to get His attention.  Someone told Jesus that His mother and brothers were looking for Him and Jesus asked “Who is my mother?  Or My brothers?”  He looked around the crowd standing around Him and said, as He motioned His hand, “Behold, my mother and my brothers.  Whoever does the will of God is my brother, sister and mother.” (Mark 3:31-35).

Jesus, later, tells His disciples that if we love Him, we will keep His commandment (John 14:15).  As we abide in agape love, the love of Jesus Christ, we are His brothers and sisters.  Agape love is selfless, all-caring love for the best for others. It doesn’t mean we neglect ourselves, but when it comes to the edification of our brothers and sisters, we choose to do what is right and best for them (1 Thess. 5:11, 1 Corinth. 14:26).

Because Jesus is the image of the invisible God, He is not only the first-born of the New Covenant, but of all things, therefore all things are by Him (He is he Word of God) and all that God is (as Jesus walked this earth) dwelled in Him (1 Col. 3:12-19).  Death came by Adam and Eve but life comes through Jesus Christ that Jesus is the first fruit (1 Corinth. 15:22-23).  As with the tithe where we give God the best of our first of the harvest or before we do anything else with our money, Father has given us Jesus, as the first fruit of redemption. 

Jesus says that He will never leave us nor forsake us (Heb. 13:5).  He will ‘do’ for us.  Whatsoever we ask in His name, He will give us (John 14:13).  Growing up, two brothers lived across the street.  When anybody ‘jumped’ on one, he had two do deal with, the older brother always picked up for he younger.  Jesus IS our older brother!

8 Judge

We’ve talked about Jesus as being the fullness of the Godhead.  Obviously, He is the Son of God but we also learned that all that the Father is and the Spirit of God all dwelled in Jesus’ person as He walked this earth.  I don’t think anyone has a problem understanding that Jesus is our Messiah, our Savior as He shed His blood on Calvary cleansing us from our sin.  We saw that Father raised Him from the grave on the third day and returning to the Father giving us the promise for life after this life.  We also saw that in being the first raised from the dead in the New Covenant, Jesus is oldest to many brothers and sisters who would/will follow.

How many of us, though, are familiar with the ‘great white throne’ judgement in the book of revelation (Rev. 20:11-15)?  The Father has given all judgment to the Son (John 5:22-27). 

A quick refresher: As prophesied, Jesus (Savior, Messiah) was born of a virgin (Is. 7:14, Luke. 1:26-33).  He came to fulfill the law (Matt. 5:17).  He shall redeem us from the law (Gal.3:13-14).  He was crucified and died on the cross (Matt. 27:33-50).  He rose from the grave on the third day (Mat. 28:1-9) and ascended back into heaven (Acts 1:9-11).

He explained that God’s law is love (Matt. 22:36-40) and there is no greater love than to give oneself for his brother (John 15:13).  So Jesus humbled Himself by going to the cross (Phil. 2:5-11) thereby reconciling all things unto Himself (Col. 1:20).

In the first covenant, the Jews had to shed the blood of sacrificed animals to be cleansed from their sin.  Jesus became the final blood sacrifice for sin by becoming our propitiation (1 John 2:1-2 – atonement, stand in our place) for sin (Heb. 9:11-28).  Because Jesus washed our sin away, we don’t have to face the second death, the lake of fire which we see in Revelation.

Now, though those who have received Jesus don’t have to worry about the ‘great white throne’ judgment, we will face Jesus at what is called the ‘judgment seat of Christ’ (2 Corinth. 5:10).  Here, we will be judged and rewarded for the works we’ve done, in our lifetime, for the Lord (1 Corinth. 3:9-16).  Not to worry, we are already in the eternal kingdom so our ‘salvation’ is not jeopardized, only the level of reward which we may receive.

So we add ‘judge’ at the end of our list.

Remember, this is just to help one get started on their journey.  We spend a lifetime learning about our Lord.  So we need to read the scriptures, ask the Holy Ghost to guide us in our reading giving us understanding, communing with God, learning His voice and then doing what Father tells us to do – live in agape love!

Father, Son and Holy Ghost (the Godhead) are one.

Amen

   

10-8-2022  Who is the Holy Spirit?

 
What (or should I say?) “Who” is the Holy Spirit or the Holy Ghost?  He is part of what we Christians call the Godhead, Trinity of God – Father, Son and the Holy Ghost.  He is the breath of God.   The Hebrew word ruwach  (H7307) means breath or spirit  and is used in reference to God.  In the Greek, the word pneuma (G4151) is derived from the root word pneo (4154) which is blow or breathe hard.  Pneuma goes a bit deeper meaning as translated spirit, ghost, rational soul and, in the New Testament, the word is usually used in reference to God.

 

Breath of God

 

Simply put, the Holy Ghost is the breath of God!  Think about ourselves.  We breathe in and we breathe out.  God also breath out, but it accomplishes His will.

 

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth and the earth was without form and empty and darkness was upon the face of the deep.  And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters (Gen. 1:1-2).  Tohuw (H8414) is confusion, without form, empty, waste, wilderness, etc.  Choshek (H2822) means darkness, ignorance, sorrow, death, destruction.  Tehom or tehowm (H8415) is an abyss, deep, subterranean water supply or depth of waters.  Its base word is huwm (H1949) which is uproar or to agitate greatly.     

 

So, in the beginning, as God spoke everything into existence, His breath agitated the nothingness into something – whatever He said (Gen. 1:3-31) came into being! 

 

‘Ghost’ and ‘spirit’ have been used to not only reference God, but anything of a spiritual nature.  Here are some more words and definitions to keep in mind:

 

In the Old Testament, nephesh (H5315) means ghost, but also refers to a living, breathing creature whereas gava (1478) refers more to the ‘act’ of breathing.

 

In the New Testament, to the above definition of pneuma, we add ekpneo (1606) which reflects giving up the ghost or to die.

 

In the Hebrew, owb (H178), as well as ghost, refers to a hollow sound or familiar spirit and we’ve already defined ruwach above.

 

In the Greek, to pneuma, we add phantasma (5326) which is also spirit but includes ‘as a specter’ (disembodied spirit).

 

So the terms which refer to God also could refer to something lesser.  So we need to understand the context in which the word is used.

 

In scripture, God breathed into Adam, giving him life.  That is Adam became a living creature (Gen. 2:7). 

 

Prophets Jeremiah (Jer. 5:24), Joel (Joel 2:23-29) and Haggai (Hag. 2:5-9) prophesied the coming of the Holy Ghost.  Even Deuteronomy made note of it (Deut. 11:14).  Of course, they spoke of Him as the former and latter rain.

 

So was the Holy Ghost only for the early disciples?  After Jesus’ ascension back into heaven, Cornelius, a Roman Centurion, a convert, and his family received the Holy Ghost while listening to Peter preach (Acts 10:1-48).  And Paul encountered twelve of John the Baptist’s disciples on the road to Ephesus.  Note that they had not yet received the Holy Ghost  until this encounter (Acts 19:1-7).

 

Jesus breathed on His disciples giving them a commandment to receive the Holy Ghost (John 20:21-23) which the disciples actually received later in the upper room (Acts 2:1-16), thus receiving a new life in Jesus Christ (Rom. 6:4, Col. 3:10).

                                   

When Jesus died on the cross, the veil was torn to the Holy of Holies giving us direct access to the Father through the Holy Ghost, in Jesus’ name, enabling us to receive from the Father directly (Matt. 27:50-51, Psalm 51:10, 1 Corinth. 2:9-16). 

 

Active Power of God

 

We’ve seen the Holy Spirit active in creation.    But now, let’s get personal.  He wants to be a part of our lives.

 

Jesus says that when the Holy Ghost is come upon us we shall have power (Acts 1:8).  What kind of power?

 

Webster’s defines power as authority or influence over others.  It produces an effect or can mean physical might.

 

Because the Holy Ghost comes to us, in the New Testament, let’s look at two Greek words translated as power.

 

Exousia (G1849) is translated as power or authority over others.  Whereas dunamis (G1411 is violent or explosive power or the ability to work miracles.

 

So, power to do what?  Jesus gave His apostles and the seventy disciples (He sent out later) power over sickness, disease and to cast out devils (Mat. 10:5-8, Luke 10:1-17).  Peter and John healed he lame man at the beautiful gate (Acts 3:1-8).  Paul cast the spirit of divination out of a woman (Acts 16:16-19).  Effectual, fervent payers bring results (James 5:16). 

 

With the Holy Ghost comes the fruit of the Spirit (qualities of life) (Gal. 5:22-23) and gifts of the Spirit (the ability to do different things for God) (1 Corinth. 12:1-31, Rom. 12:5-10 & 29, Eph. 4:11.  All given for the edification of man and the church and the ability to reach out to the ‘lost’.

 

Think in terms of God (HS) abiding in us/with us.  As He walked with His disciples, Jesus told them that the Holy Ghost was with them but would be in them (John 14:17)!  Jesus spoke in reference of the Holy Ghost coming after His ascension.   

 

Note:    Some of these passages refer to the early and latter rains.  Early rain comes in the planting season and is usually a light rain and stimulates growth in the newly planted seeds.  Where the latter rain is heavier and comes just before and into harvest to help plants grow and ripen.

 

(by permission) early rain is 2000 years ago, latter rain beginning (@1850’s).  The early rains corresponding with the disciples receipt of the Holy Ghost and the latter rains beginning around the mid 1800’s, the rise of Pentecost which leads to the ‘ripening’ at the harvest. 

 

Wisdom

 

The dictionary defines wisdom as knowledge, insight or judgment.  The Hebrew word, generally, used for wisdom is chokmah (H2451) which means good sense or skillful.  The Greek word Sophia (G4678) implies natural or spiritual wisdom.

 

Proverbs (the book of wisdom) tells us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Prov. 9:10).  Want wisdom?  Get to know God and follow His lead.  Isaiah tells us that God will teach us His ways (Isa. 2:3). 

 

We want wisdom?  We must start with God and that by the indwelling (in us) of the Holy Ghost, who is promised to all believers (John 14:17).  He helps us to rightly divide those things which we encounter (2 Tim. 2:15).  For us, wisdom come by the Holy Ghost (2 Corinth. 2:12-14).

 

Comforter

 

The dictionary defines comforter as a source of strength or consolation.

 

The Hebrew word nacham (H5162) cites to feel sorry for, pity, revenge or console. 

 

The Greek word parakletos (G3875) cites intercessor, advocate, comforter as well as consoler.

 

Jesus says to the disciples that if they have seen Him, they have seen the Father.  That they will do the same works He has done and greater.  That whatever we ask in His name, Father will do it.  These should be words of comfort. Then Jesus tells His disciples that He will pray the Father to give them another comforter who will be with us forever (John 14:15-18).  Say what?  Consider.  John the Baptist testifies that he witnessed the Holy Ghost descending upon Jesus like a dove (Matt. 3:14-16) and then the Holy Ghost is made available to man as with the disciples in the upper room (Acts 2:1-4).

 

The Comforter (Holy Ghost) will comfort us in all that we face (2 Corinth. 1-3-7).  When we have no father, mother, brother or sister, He will fill the gap (Mark 10:29-30). 

 

He is with us always and as necessary will prompt others to rise up and help us as well (Gal. 6:2).

 

Healer

 

A healer restores, cures, or returns to a sound state (dictionary).

 

The Hebrew word for healer is rapha (H7495) which is to cure, repair, make whole.

 

Two Greek words are therapeuo  (G 2323) and iaomai  (G2390) to heal, cure, make whole (hmmmm!).

 

So as a healer, the Holy Ghost, makes whole, repairs, heals or cures.

 

The Spirit helps our infirmities . . . making intercession for us . . . according to the will of God (Romans 8:26-27). 

 

Jesus heals the lame man at the pool of Bethesda (John 5:1-12).  He healed two blind men outside Jericho (Matt. 20:29-34).  Cast out demons from the man at the Gadarenes (Mark 5:1-19).

 

Jesus looks for our faith in healing.  The Roman Centurion beseeched Jesus to heal his servant, saying that ‘you have but to say the word and he shall be whole’.  The centurion arrived home later and discovered that his servant had been healed the same hour Jesus spoke the words (Matt. 8:5-13).  And of course, after four days, Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead (John 11:1-44).  Jesus asks that we believe so He can heal us (via he Holy Ghost) naturally and spiritually.

 

Even in the Old Testament God healed.  God uses Elisha to heal the Syrian captain who was a leper (2 Kings 5:1-14). 

 

The Holy Ghost rises up and heals us from whatever we face.  And, of course, with all prayers, Jesus reminds us that we should avoid any doubt (Matt. 21:21-22).  We have to believe then receive (Mark 11:24).

 

Teacher

 

The dictionary sys that to teach is to cause to know, impart knowledge, instruct, train, educate, etc.

 

There are three Hebrew words mostly used for teacher.  Biyn (H995) which is to teach, instruct, inform, etc.; yarah  (H3384) which is to point out, show, instruct, etc.; and iamad (H3925) which is to expertly teach or instruct.

 

Didaktikos (G1317) declares the ability to teach; (G1320) didaskalos is a master or teacher; and didasko (G1321) is ‘to teach’.

 

Because the Holy Ghost puts what God says into action He is our teacher so Jeremiah tells us that God will write His laws into our heart (Jer. 31:33).  And as John tells us in his gospel, the Holy Ghost not only teaches us but brings things back into memory (John 14:1-26, not v26).

 

This is possible because the Holy Ghost abides (lives) within us (1 Corinth. 3:16) and John reminds us in his letter that the Holy Ghost will teach us all things (1John 2:27).  This enables us to say what we need to say and when we need to (Matt. 10:19).  We know that what the Spirit tells us is valid because He compares spiritual things with Spiritual things (1 Corinth. 2:12-16, foc v 13), in other words, God’s standards.  So we know that what the Holy Ghost shares with us is the truth (John 16:13-15).

 

So, I part, we know that the Holy Ghost is the breath of God which makes Him the ‘active’ power of God.  He gives us wisdom to know how to deal with things.  He comforts us in our sorrow – whatever it may be.  He heals us and He teaches us what we need to know and how and when to use that knowledge.  And keep in mind, the Holy Ghost reveals the deep things of God (1 Corinth. 2:10).

 

Being the breath of God, He actually is part of the Father, which the Father can then, share with us – that is be an active part in our lives.  He does this through what we call the ‘baptism of the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:1-16, Acts 8:9-24, Acts 10:44-48, Acts 19:1-7).  We can walk and operate in the full power of the living God!

 

Of course, this is not a complete dossier of the Holy Ghost, but it should be enough to help you understand who He is and how important His presence is to us.  My prayer is that this encourages all to research more for themselves and grow closer to our heavenly Father as your understanding grows.

 

Amen

9-24-2022  Who is God, the Father?

 

I open with that this is part one of a ten part syllabus which is designed to help people understand who God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Ghost are.  Also, basically, how and why we need salvation, what is ‘our’ responsibility, in living for Christ Jesus (how we interact with the world) and some differences and commonalities between Christian denominations and world religions.  We also take a look at the importance of the bible and the structure in which Father’s church should function. 

This is not an in-depth study, but something to provide some basic information to help our understanding of who God is.

We also need to understand some terms: atheism, polytheism and monotheism.

The dictionary defines as ‘atheism’ as belief that no gods (of any kind) exist.  Polytheism is defined as the belief in many gods.  Monotheism is belief in only one God. 

Atheism contends that there is no greater power than us humans and we humans control our own destiny.  Both mono and polytheism believe in a power, or many powers, greater than us humans who exercise influence over our lives. Both Greek (Zeus) and Roman (Jupiter) had their group of lesser gods and demi-gods who lived on Mt. Olympus and Odin and other Scandinavian gods lived in Valhalla are examples of those greater powers.  Other religions believe in many gods with one main god in charge of all activities.  Whereas Judaism, Christianity, Islam and Zoroastrianism are prime examples of the “one God” concept.

Also we need understand that there is a difference between ‘religion’ and ‘faith’.  Religion is defined as ‘commitment to’ and/or ‘observance of’ a system of beliefs, practices or attitudes.  Faith is defined as allegiance or loyalty to that which cannot be proved.  Actually, there’s nothing wrong with religion, but the danger is that the actions can be performed without one actually ‘believing’ in a higher authority.  Whereas in faith, the belief in a higher authority generates those actions.

First, we must believe that God is (Heb. 11:6) or nothing else that we say really matters.  Knowing about God solely becomes the basis for a concept, a religion.  But God wants to get up close and personal with us (Rev. 3:20).  He doesn’t want us to ‘just’ know about Him but to come to really get to ‘know’ Him. 

Getting to know God takes time and great effort on our part.  I say ‘great’ effort because allowing Jesus to come into our heart, our confession of faith, is just the beginning of a life-long, glorious walk in spiritual growth.  I say ‘spiritual’ because it isn’t exactly a physical transformation (though that is part of it) but more of a change of attitudes and living style, conforming to the image of God.  After all, we are made in the image of God (Gen. 2:27-28).  And just what IS that image?  First, God is Spirit and those who worship Him must do so in Spirit and truth (John 4:24).  More than once, you’ll hear that ‘God is love’ (1 John 4:8).  So, if we love God, we will keep His commandments (John 14:15). 

Okay, so just what is the image of God?  God is love (1 John 4:6-8) so His image is love.  We abide in that image of love by keeping His commandments (John 14:15).

There are many lists of “The Names of God” available.  One can search the internet and find them.  Just search “Names of God”.  If one has access to a Greek and/or Hebrew concordance, you can see the translation of those names or you can search them on the web.  The names of God reveal many of the qualities and characteristics of the God we serve.

Let’s take a look at ten of the aspects, qualities or characteristics of the God we serve.

Alpha and Omega

God always is, always was and shall always be and He is the only true, living God.  The phrase Alpha and Omega is used only four times in the Christian bible and all in the Book of Revelation where Jesus declares Himself (in chapter one) to the apostle John then in chapter twenty-one and twenty-two where He, again, declares His eternal existence.

However, God does declare His eternal existence throughout the Old Testament, as well, where David declares that God is from everlasting to everlasting (Psalm 41:3).  Or where the book of Deuteronomy declares God is our eternal refuge (Deut. 33:26-27).  Or, even, as Isaiah declares that there are no other gods before or after God (Isa. 43:13).  Luke reminds us that the Word of God is eternal (Luke 21:33).  Paul reminds the Corinthians that there is only one, true God (1 Corinth. 8:4-6).  Paul also encourages the Thessalonians to serve the one, true living God (1 Thess. 1:7-9).  Not only has God created everything, but He will destroy and make it new – in His time (Rev. 21:1).  He has been before anything and will continue forever.

God is the one, true and eternal God and, of course, as you read through the scriptures for yourself, you will find many more examples declaring the same.      

Creator

You may believe that all creation came from a singularity which, all of the sudden, from a tiny existence, started just expanding into the universe that we are aware of today.  But as Christians, we believe God created all things by His Word!  Read Genesis chapter one.  God said and it was so!  I, personally believe, that science proves how God brought all things into existence through His Word.  

What is it to be a creator?  To bring things into existence, invest with new form, produce through imaginative skill.  Thank you Webster’s.

The Hebrew word used in the bible is bara (H1254) means to create, cut down, dispatch, make, do or choose.  In other words, God ‘chose’ to make something so He spoke the Word and so it became!  Science goes on to tell us that eventually the universe will implode (contract back into nothingness) while God says that He will take away the old universe, He will make a new one (Rev. 21:1).

“In the beginning God”, the first four words in our bible.  All things start with God!  God created the heavens and the earth, then all that is in them, then He created man (Gen. chptr 1 & 2). 

In his Psalm, Maschil tells us all things are God’s because He has created them (Psalm 89:8-12).  Later, Paul tells the Ephesians that God created all things by Jesus Christ (the Word – Eph. 3:9).  The apostle John also confirms that God made all things through Jesus (John 1:1-3).

God is Creator!

Righteousness

The dictionary says that righteous is acting rightly or being upright, arising from an outraged sense of justice or morality.  Eg. Being obedient to laws or moral codes. Being fair and correct.

Interestingly, the Hebrew (OT) words translated as righteous (H3477 yashar, H6662 tsaddiya, H 6663 tsagaq and H6664 tsedeq) add worthy, upright and straight to Webster’s dictionary definition.

The Greek (NT) words (G1341 dikaiokrisia, G1342 dikaios, G1343 dikaiosume and G1344 dikaioo) add holy, innocent and free to the definition.   

Matthew tells us that straight is the gate and narrow is the way to life (Matt. 7:13-14).  Scripture shows many acknowledging God’s righteousness.  Even that old gentile, Pharaoh, admitted God is righteous (Exod. 9:27).  The heavens declare it (Psalm 97:1-6).  The apostle John declares it (John 17:25).  Even the angels declare God’s righteousness (Rev. 16:5).

God’s righteousness means that it is His way or the highway but, in His love, He always had and has our best interests at heart.  Salvation is available to any and all who believe (in Him - Rom. 1:16) because He doesn’t desire anyone to perish (eternally – 2Peter 3:9).

God will judge us according as to how we live (Ezek. 18:30).  John tells us that everyone who has ever lived shall be brought before God’s throne and judged.  Those who refused God in their lifetime, are judged for the works they did will be cast into the eternal death (second death – Rev. 20:11-15).  But those who received God into their heart – those who looked forward to the coming Messiah and those who have accepted His existence) will enjoy eternal life (Rev. 21:1-4)

Just

The dictionary defines just as being based on fact or reason, morally correct.

The Hebrew word (H4941 misphat) is likened to righteousness but also is to legally sentence or charge.

The Greek word (G173 – endikos) means in the right or equitable (note, also similar to righteous).

God declares Himself just (Isa. 34:21).  God’s laws and commandments are just (Rom. 7:12).  The prophets declare God just (Neh. 9:32-33.  And Jesus declares that He is just through the Father (John 5:30).

God made the earth by His power, established the world by His wisdom and stretched he heavens at His discretion (Jer. 10:12) and that makes everything ‘His ballgame’.

God metes out reward or reprimand for everything we do (Rom. 13:1-4, 1 Corinth. 3:8) and chastens (corrects) us for our own benefit (Heb. 12:6-10).

Yes, He does bring his judgment, or even wrath, upon the world because of disobedience so remember though He desires that NO ONE suffers eternal damnation, His actions are to get us back on the right track (Heb. 12:1-11).

Jealous

The dictionary defines jealous as        intolerant of rivalry, hostile towards a rival, vigilant in

guarding a possession, untrustingly watchful.

Note that the four Hebrew words used for jealous also include envy and they are (H7065

Gana, H7067 ganna, H7068 ginah and H7072 gannow.

The two Greek words add indignation and zeal to the definition and they are G2205 zelos

and G2206 zeloo. 

God tells Moses that He is a jealous God (Exod. 24:14).  So He doesn’t want us to have anything to do with what would seem to be another God (Deut. 6:14-150.  Paul asks the Corinthians why did they provoke God to jealousy by observing pagan customs (1Corinth. 10:18-22).  This is why Mark says to love God with all our heart, mind, soul and strength (Mark 12:29-31).

God does get jealous when we chase after ungodly things.

Gets angry with sin

What?  God get angry?

The dictionary defines anger as a strong feeling of displeasure, rage, fury or wrath.

Following are seven Hebrew words used for varying degrees of anger: (H599) anaph, (H639) aph, (H1149) benac, (H2194) zaam, (H2734) charah, (H3708) kaac and (H7107) qatasph.  Their definitions range from indignation, wrath, rage (expressed as flared nostrils), red-faced (is the blood boiling?), super worried, extremely sorrowful, breathing with passion. 

Greek words used are (G3710) orgizo  angry, frustrated, (G3711),  orgilos angry (as in vengeance) and (G5520 ) cholao           angry (irritated). 

In English we use the word ‘angry’ referencing from just being a bit miffed to outright rage.  The Israelites and the Romans, as well as many of today’s languages, use a different a word to express a different level of anger.

So, does God get angry?  He sure does.  At sin!  He suffers a long a time with us when we don’t do what is right, but eventually He does lower the boom at our insistence at going in the wrong direction.

Israel had been in captivity at the time God raised Ezekiel up.  Israel had put a huge wedge in their relationship with the eternal God so He explains to Ezekiel why He has levied His anger upon them (Ezek. 43:7-8).  Paul reminds the Ephesians that God brings His wrath upon the children of disobedience (Eph. 5:6).

So why would He get angry?  God does not want sin co-existing with His people so He destroys Sodom and Gomorrah because of grievous sin (Gen. 18:16-21 & 19:1-29 foc V 25). 

When entering Canaan, the promised land, Israel is commanded to utterly destroy everything occupying the promised land for God has chosen Israel to be obedient and to destroy those who hate Him (Deuteronomy 7:1-10).  However, Israel did not do exactly as God commanded.

When Israel overthrew Jericho, Achan takes money and garments, against God’scommand.  As a result, Achan is executed and Israel loses the battle to their foe, A-I (Josh. 7:1-26).          

Ananias and his wife, Sapphira, lie to the Holy Spirit about what they had promised to give to God and that lie (disobedience) cost them their lives. (Acts 5:1-10

Just as we might get angry with our children because of their disobedience, God does llikewise when we are disobedient.

Longsuffering

God puts up with a lot from us.  Read the Old Testament and see what God had to deal with as He tried to keep Israel in line.  He suffers with us as individuals helping us to get our act together.

The dictionary defines longsuffering as enduring patiently for a long time

Two Hebrew words are used in describing longsuffering:  (H 639)  aph is breathing with passion.  (Think frustration “Oh, no.  he’s not doing that again!).  (H750)      arek which means slow to anger.  (That means waiting a long time before ministering justice for a negative action).

The Greek words used are (G3114)    makrothumeo  which is to bear, be patient or patiently endure.  (G3115) makrothumia   is longsuffering, patience.

God is longsuffering (not forgetful, not ignoring and not unconcerned).  He gives us every opportunity to get our act together before taking conclusive action.

David tells us that God is compassionate, gracious, longsuffering and merciful (Psalm 86:15.  Peter tells us that god is not slack, but longsuffering towards us with the intent that none should perish, but all would come to repentance.  Peter also tells us that God is longsuffering so that no one would have to suffer the consequences of turning away from Him.  And He reminds the people that Paul also told them of these things (2 Peter 3:9-15).

Paul explains to Timothy just how longsuffering God is and He has given us an example of this through Jesus (1 Tim 1:1-16).  God was ready to destroy the world, but He waited for Noah to finish building and loading the ark before bringing the waters (1 Peter 3:20). 

So, yes, God puts up with a lot from us as, He gives us opportunity after opportunity to let Him into our lives, or make corrections before rendering judgment.

Forgiving

And we thank God that He is so longsuffering because that is the basis of His expressing forgiveness towards us.  Amen?

The dictionary defines forgiveness as to stop feeling resentment towards, pardon or excuse.

The Hebrew word, genrerally used for forgive is (H5375)    macaw which is to forgive, lift up, pardon, spare or bear up (carry our burdens upon Himself).  The Greek word is (G5483) charizomai which is to forgive, lay aside, send away.

When we repent our sin, God is faithful to forgive us those sins and start anew with us.  We are become a new creation in Christ Jesus (2 Corinth. 5:17).  God forgets those sins which have become covered by the blood of Christ (1 John 17). 

WE need to be thankful that Jesus stands the gap for us.  When we confess our sins, accepting the blood that Jesus shed on Calvary, Father no longer sees our righteousness, but the righteousness of Jesus and accepts it as cleansing for us  (1 John 2:1-2).  We become acceptable to be in the presence of God through Jesus (Eph. 1:3-7).

Not only does God forgive us our sins, He puts them behind His back and casts them into the sea (Isa. 38:17, Micah 7:19).

When Father forgives us our sins (Ex. 34:6-7), we become complete in Christ.  Our old man is buried in water baptism and we become a new person (Col. 2:8-13, 2 Corinth. 5:17).  Father also tells us that we ought to forgive our brother as God has forgiven us (Matt. 6:14-15, Luke 17:3-4).  Note the consequences if we don’t forgive.

Love

God is love (1 John 4:8).

The dictionary defines love (basically) as an affection based on admiration and benevolence, warm attachment or devotion, unselfish concern, physical attraction.

Phileo (G 5368) or Reya (H 7453) is the type of love as having affection for, being a friend or having a personal attachment to. 

Several other Hebrew words used for love are: (H157) ahab  to have affection for which can be caring or physical;  (H160) ahabah are affections or feelings.  I mention (H2836) chashaq carries the connotation o taking ‘delight in’ and H1730) dowd which indicates beloved, as in a relative.

And several Greek words to keep in mind are:  (Gr 26) Agape love is having affection or benevolence towards another, (Gr 5388) Philoteknos is the type of love we have for our children, (eg. “motherly love”), (Gr 5362) Philandros is the type of love a husband and wife share and (Gr 5360) Philadelphia is a brotherly love.

Love carries a multitude of applications and is all of these – and more.

We’ve already stated that God IS love, but just what does that mean?

God loves us so much that He desires us to have eternal fellowship in Him (through Jesus) and with Him (John 3:16). 

We also have a parent/child relationship with God.  When the disciples tried to keep the children from being prayed for, Jesus said not to suffer (prevent them) them for the kingdom of heaven is like them (Matt. 19:13-15), because we must come with the attitude of a child (absolute trust) to enter into God’s kingdom (Matt. 18:1-6).  Proper correction of a child is an expression of our love towards them (Prov. 13:24, Rev. 3:19).  Father will guide our steps (Psalm48:14) and teach us (John 14:26).  And should we stray, when we repent, as with the prodigal son, God will welcome us back with open arms (Luke 15:11-32).  Our job is to keep God’s commandments (to love, Mark 12:28-31).  Why?  Because while we were still wallowing in our sin, Christ died for us (Rom. 5:1-8).

God wants a relationship with us.  Think about it!  He came to visit Adam and Eve in the Garden (Gen. 3:7-9).  Do we think that this was the only time God visited them?  God also spoke with Moses on the mount, face to face (Exod. 33:11).  God also got up close and personal with Abraham and called him His friend (James 2:23).  Jesus shares things with us and calls us (not just His disciples) His friend (John 15:15.

But how close are we willing to walk with our Lord?  At the last supper, the apostle John laid his head upon Jesus’ chest (John 13:23).  When we invite Him in, Jesus is more than glad to come in (Rev. 3:20).  The veil to the Holy of Holies was torn in two, down the middle, when Jesus died.  The importance?  Father was giving us direct access to Himself through Jesus (Mark 15:37-38, Heb. 10_19-20)!  Again, how close are we willing to dare to walk with our Lord and Savior? 

God is Final Authority

Also, because God has created all that is, He IS also the final authority (has the last say) in all things (Col. 1:15-16).

The dictionary says authority is the power to influence or command thought, opinion or behavior.

We have two Hebrew words translated as authority and each is only used once:  (H8633) toqeph which also means might or power (rule over) and   (H7235) rabah which carries the connotation of gathering up or increasing (drawing ohers into your fold).

Several Greek words are translated as authority.  (G831) authenteo dominate or usurp over,   (G1849)  exousia jurisdiction, power, delegated influence, strength  (G2003) epitage decree, commandment  (G5247) huperoche superiority, excellency. 

Usurp is to ‘sieze’ or ‘grab’ something with force.   One thing I’ve learned is that God does not force His way on us or into our lives so usurp is not a part of how God operates.  However, I have experienced ‘strong’ suggestion (at His hand), but to agree or disagree with God has always been my choice.  That’s why Jesus says He knocks and ‘if/when’ we open the door, He will come in and be with us (Rev. 3:20).

Nonetheless, whether we think so or not, God does have the final say in all things.  As we said, He has created ALL things.  Can the creation be greater than the Creator (Rom. 9:19-26)?

The first four words in Genesis are “In the beginning God” (Gen. 1:1).  The apostle John tells us that in the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God and nothing was made without Him (John 1:1-3).  Paul tells the Colossians that’s why nothing can be greater than God (Col. 1:12-17). 

Asaph tells us in his psalm the world is God’s and He knows everything about it (Psalm 50:7-12).  Jesus tells us Father knows all about us and our needs (Luke 12:22-32).  And He knows our heart (Luke 16:15). In another psalm, Asaph tells us that God raises up and takes down authority (Psalm 75:5-7).

And a very good thing is that Satan can’t get to us without God’ permission.  He had to get God’s permission to attack Job (Job 1:6-2, 2:1-7).  He attempts to discourage us because he knows that his time is limited (Matt. 8:29).

James asks a question.  “Do you believe in God?”   The devils not only believe, but KNOW that God is and the tremble (James 2:19).  The (devils) ‘know’ that God is the final authority.  What’s our problem?  

These are just ten things to help one to understand who God is.  But as I said, search out a list of His names and their meanings and receive a deeper understanding of who our God is.

He is before anything and He will be here after He has re-created all things.  He is Righteous.  Everything He does is for our own good. He is Just as He does all things for the right reasons.  He does get Jealous when we try to put anything before Him.  Yes, He does get Angry with sin.  He is hurt when we are not faithful to Him and He eventually lets us know it.  He is Longsuffering.  He does put up with a lot from us yet He will Forgive us what we have done – when we ask. 

Because He loves us so much.  He even gave Himself (see the section on Jesus, the Son) so we could be with Him through eternity.  And no matter what lies the enemy (the devil) tells us, God does have final Authority in all things.

Amen

 

 

8-27-2022 Unholy Triumvirate

Ephesians 6:10-13, John 10:10

Apparently the Ephesians were having a hard time dealing with spiritual warfare, so Paul encourages them: Finally brothers, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.  Put on the whole armor of God that you might stand against the wiles of the devil.  For we don’t wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, powers, the rulers of darkness of this world and against spiritual wickedness in high places.  Therefore, take unto yourselves the whole armor of God that you might be able to stand in the evil day and having done all that you can do to stand, stand! (Eph. 6:1-13)

Jesus had been telling His disciples that He would have to go to Jerusalem, die and rise again.  Peter then took Jesus and said “Be it far from you, Lord.  This shall not happen to you.”  Then Jesus replied “Get behind Me, Satan.  You are an offence to Me for you don’t desire the things of God, but those of men (Matt. 16:20-23).”

Jesus recognized who it was that motivated Peter’s comments – Satan.  So He acknowledged exactly whom He was addressing.  Just as the devil entered Judas Iscariot’s heart to betray Jesus (Luke 22:1-4) he had, that quickly prompted Peter’s comments.  They sounded good – to keep Jesus safe, but it would have interfered with Jesus’ ultimate plan to save us from our sin.  Did Satan possess Peter?  Was Peter evil?  Of course not!  Just momentarily ‘misused’!  (get the picture?)

In John chapter ten Jesus tells us the parable of the Good Shepherd who takes care of His sheep.  In the parable Jesus cites one, anyone, who is NOT the shepherd, is he who sneaks into the sheepfold and comes to steal, kill and destroy – the sheep of the Good Shepherd.

Jesus tells us, clearly, that He (Jesus) IS the Good Shepherd (John 10:11).  He does take care of His sheep! 

Father spent years of my life showing me the reality behind this parable.  How often are we blinded until the Holy Ghost reveals to us exactly what is right before our eyes?  When He (the Holy Ghost) is come into our lives, He will lead us into all truth (John 16:13) and understanding -of the deep things of God (1 Corinth. 2:7-16).

Again, we don’t fight against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, powers and rulers of darkness of this world and spiritual wickedness in high places (Eph. 6:11-18).  So, praying in the Spirit, we put on the armor of God, fervently seeking God so we can stand against the wiles of the devil.  Understand that praying in the Spirit is either or both praying in our God-given Spiritual language or praying in our ‘natural’ language focusing totally on the Lord.

First I want us to be on the same page about some of the words used in Ephesians six and John ten.

Principalities

The Greek word used for principalities in Ephesians is arche (G746) it is also basically a magistrate, power, principle or rule in respects to order, time, place or rank.  That is, it is one who has been given authority in a specified area. Think mayor, governor, president, king, etc.

Powers

The Greek word used for powers is exousia (G1849) which means authority, liberty, jurisdiction, right, strength in light of force or mastery.  Again, one who has overall authority, but not necessarily limited to a specific place.

Rulers of darkness of this world

The Greek word used here is kosmokrator (G2888) which stems from kosmos (G2889) or world and krateo (G2902) which is to take, keep, lay hold of or retain. Kosmkrator is a ruler and he rules the darkness or  akotos G4655) which stems from akia (G4639)which is shade or shadow.  Ergo, the phrase rulers of the darkness of this world.  More specifically, one who has authority which he exercises that authority secretly or through deception.

Wickedness in high places

Here, wickedness is the Greek word poneria (G4189), which is wickedness or iniquity which stems from poneros (G4190) which means evil, bad, grievous, harm, etc.   And ‘high places is epouranios  (G2032) which is celestial, sky, the heaven(ly).  Satan is the prince and power of the air (G109) (Eph. 2:2), or or we might say the ‘breeze’ (or spirits) that blows across the sky.  But, note again, not for the good of those subject to that authority.

John 10:10 declares that our enemy has three intents on his heart, so let’s take a look at steal, kill and destroy.

Steal

Luke 8:11 – steal the word from our heart.  Satan’s job is to do just that!  Steal the precious Word of God from our heart.  Actually his job is to keep us from getting God’s Word into our heart, but once God’s Word begins to settle in, the devil does his best to steal it away.  We may face problems which seem too difficult to overcome or we may even decide that the things of this world look better than the love of God.  Sound familiar (read Matt. 13:3-13)?

What can I say?  Klepto (G 2813) is a prime word which means to steal.  Suggest anything to you?  (hint – kleptomaniac?)

Kill  

Matt. 2:16-18 – Herod orders death of the children.  Satan’s attempt to keep Jesus from taking root in anybody’s heart was to destroy Him early in His earthly existence (within two years after His birth – Matt. 2:11-16).

John 13:2 – devil puts it into Judas’ heart to betray Jesus.  He brings the authorities to the mount to arrest Jesus.  Some may say Judas thought he would force Jesus’ hand as a king, but Satan intended to kill Jesus, thus stopping God’s plan for salvation.   

Matt. 27:19-24 – “give us Barabbas”.  To assure Pilate that all the people of Israel wanted Jesus to die, Satan aroused the crowd.

Matt. 27:48-54 – physical death of Jesus on the cross.  This is why Jesus allowed Himself to be crucified on the cross.  Satan thought he had won!  Jesus was dead.  Yet Jesus gives us the promise of eternal life through His resurrection on the third day!  Hallelujah!

Kill?  Thuo (G2380, is to kill, slay or sacrifice.  Think about this from Satan’s viewpoint.  Then Jesus’.  In case you are having difficulty – Satan’s intent was to kill, Jesus’ intent was eternal sacrifice so we could live.

Destroy

1 Peter 5:8 – devour

Apollumi (G622) is to kill, destroy, mar, die, perish, etc.  Webster’s defines destroy as to eliminate organic existence, demolish, annihilate.  Can we add ‘obliterate’?  Peter tells us that Satan also wants to devour us.  Not just ‘kill’ us, but totally destroy us or any evidence of our existence.  Think about it.  How many people today believe that God does not exist?  God told Moses “I AM that I AM” (Exod. 3:14).  God always was, is and will always be (Rev. 1:8).  How many reject this truth, even as an idea?  When people don’t believe in God, Satan has fulfilled his goal of total annihilation (eternal death)!

Did you catch the progression of this passage?  Steal – kill - destroy? 

The unholy triumvirate

Are we getting the idea on how Satan operates?

Now, let’s take a look at our ‘unholy triumvirate’ and see how they fit into the scheme of things.

What do I call the unholy triumvirate – the spirits of:  manipulation, control and predator

Manipulate

Webster’s says that to manipulate is deal with hands, to skillfully manage or utilize, control or play upon, to change by artful (sly), unfair or insidious means.

This spirit works things around to its own liking.  What does it want?  Who?  How?  What? when?  Where? Get the drift?  It wants anything and everything to go its way.  To please what it wants.  And to use any and all means necessary to accomplish this.  It wants to be ‘king of the world’ and do nothing to gain it.  That is except to manipulate the things or people to gain what it desires.  It beguiles people showing a pretense of friendliness.  One gets more of what they want with a lump of sugar than a pile of poop.  This spirit is friendly (as long as things go its way) and even likeable.  Again, as long as things go its way, it’s a happy camper.  If you remember the Popeye cartoon and his buddy Wimpy.  Wimpy’s catch phrase “I’ll gladly pay you tomorrow for a hamburger today.”  Wimpy never intended to pay up!  But he was such a sweet, pleasant, likeable, rotund guy, who could refuse him?

Remember the phrase “beware of the wolf in sheep’s clothing’?  How about “all that glitters is not gold”?  Pyrite is just a cheap imitation of that precious metal. 

We need to ask God for discernment so we can know that with which we deal!

Control

Webster’s  says that control is to check, test or verify by evidence or experimentation, exercise direct influence over, have power over or rule.

The spirit of control is what drives the manipulating spirit.  He lies underneath and behind what is obvious.  Control doesn’t mind if we spot the manipulator.  He’ll lay low for a season then rise up and then change his approach to continue his work.  Control orchestrates then the manipulator implements.  They go hand in hand, but they are separate.

Predator

And Webster’s defines a predator as one that preys (upon), destroys or devours.  The predator’s ultimate goal is to destroy with his coup d’etat being to keep souls away from God.   After all, what is the ultimate destruction?  Burning in the fires of eternal hell.  Think about feline predators.  Ooh, I guess all cats (of any size) are actually predators in this sense.  They scout out their prey, stalk it waiting for the right moment, then pounce!  The cat’s goal is dinner, to literally and totally devour its prey.  The predator spirit operates in the same manner.  It scouts out its victim, stalks it, but then, it seduces the intended prey with that which will get its attention.  For the predator spirit, the goal is not immediate death, just to keep the attention of the victim by focusing on false promises until literal death does come in.  And that, of course, leads to the ultimate death (eternal separation from God).

And the predator spirit completes this triumvirate by prompting the spirit of control to do his thing.  Hiding in the shadows watching as things unfold.

 

Consider that these spirits can influence our lives through obsession or possession. 

According to Webster, obsession is persistent, preoccupation with an unreasonable idea or feeling.  Or, basically, anything that takes up too much of your time and/or attention. 

Possession, again according to Webster’s, is the act of having or taking control or occupying without regard to ownership.  Something owned or occupied.  An individual’s normal personality being taken over by another.

So basically the difference between obsession and possession is influencing as compared to actually taking over.  Influencing is external pressure where taking over becomes internal occupancy.

Several examples come to mind.  Satan did not enter into Peter, but clearly influenced his judgment as Jesus was telling the disciples that He must die (Matt. 16:21-23). Scriptures say that Satan did enter into Judas as he conspired, against Jesus, with the church counsel (Luke 22:3-4).   Later, Paul encountered  the woman with a diving spirit.  This gal was harassing Paul until he finally turned around and commanded the spirit to leave her (Acts 16:16-18).  There was also the crazed demonic at the Gergesenes where Jesus commanded the spirits (legion) to come out of the man and allowed them to enter the pigs (Matt. 8:28-22).  And then there were the ‘sons of Sceva’ who tried to cast out a demon in the name of Jesus who Paul preached.  The demon said “Jesus I know.  Paul I know.  But whoooo arrrre you?” the brothers were unsuccessful and the possessed man sent them out naked and bleeding (Acts 19:13-16). 

I mention these situations so you understand demons can be violent or subtle and one clearly needs to walk in the authority and power of Jesus before tackling any such situation.

Also understand, some people believe in God and angels and some don’t.  Some people believe in the devil and demons and some don’t.  A person is entitled to his/her belief, but just because one rejects the existence of spiritual beings doesn’t mean that they don’t exist.  In fact, one of Satan’s biggest covers is that people don’t believe that he exists.  Nor that they believe in God!  What one doesn’t believe in can’t hurt, right?  Denial is Satan’s biggest cover.  It gives him the freedom to do what he wants, where he wants or when he wants – because people a) don’t believe he is or b) don’t believe or trust in God (the Father) for protection.

This enables the predator spirit to activate the controlling spirit who puts the manipulating spirit into action.  All too often, we jump on the person who is influenced or actually possessed by these spirits forgetting that we don’t fight against flesh and blood but against principalities, powers, the rulers of darkness of this world and against spiritual wickedness in high places. 

The victory is in Christ Jesus who has overcome the world (John 16:33).  For all things are put under His feet (Eph.1:22-23).  And He will never leave us nor forsake us (Heb. 13:5).  God so loves us that He gave His only begotten Son to stand the gap so we could have eternal fellowship with Him (John 3:16).

Amen