Bible Study - Do Over - A Love You Can Experience - Romans 5:1-21 - December 15, 2013

Bible Study – Do Over – A Love You Can Experience – December 15, 2013

This is lesson three in our series entitled “Do Over: Experience New Life in Christ.”

Our scripture is Romans 5:6-11, 18-21.

Even at our worst, GOD loves us. That is beyond our human comprehension. John 3:16-17 establishes GOD’S love for mankind:

16 “For God loved the world •in this way: He gave His •One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 18 Anyone who believes in Him is not condemned, but anyone who does not believe is already condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the One and Only Son of God.

The Apostle Paul has given us much to ponder along with some important words. He will give us some additional words in this lesson. Let’s explore.

Let’s read Romans 5:6-11, 18-21:

Let’s read Romans 5:1-5 (Introductory)

Faith Triumphs

1 Therefore, since we have been declared righteous by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 We have also obtained access through Him by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only that, but we also rejoice in our afflictions, because we know that affliction produces endurance, 4 endurance produces proven character, and proven character produces hope. 5 This hope will not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

Just because the Apostle Paul was a Pharisee by training and had a special, personal encounter with CHRIST on the road to Damascus, he had to place his faith in CHRIST – “We have been declared righteous by faith in CHRIST.” The result of being declared righteous by the shed blood of CHRIST, Christians been reconciled with GOD and are no longer at odds with HIM. They are at peace with HIM. Since we are at peace with HIM, we can come into HIS very presence and get to know HIM intimately and personally. When we get to know HIM we behold HIS Glory and we rejoice in HIS Glory. Because Christians are at peace with GOD, HE has imputed to them HIS eternal gifts of mercy and grace.

When we have built an intimate, personal relationship with HIM, when afflictions come our way, we can rejoice because we know that that HE is perfecting us so we can serve HIM. Notice the progression:

-         we also rejoice in our afflictions,

-         because we know that affliction produces endurance,

-         endurance produces proven character,

-         proven character produces hope.

-         This hope will not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

-         GOD confirms HIS presence in our lives through the indwelling Holy Spirit.

This introductory scripture prepares us for Paul’s next statements.

Let’s read Romans 5:6-8:

6 For while we were still helpless, at the appointed moment, Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For rarely will someone die for a just person—though for a good person perhaps someone might even dare to die. 8 But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us! 9 Much more then, since we have now been declared righteous by His blood, we will be saved through Him from wrath.

Again, Paul included himself in the helpless state humans were in before CHRIST. Until CHRIST came to earth, humans were in a helpless state. The Jews had a sacrificial system that gave them hope. The shed blood of animals was a place holder until CHRIST could shed HIS blood to pay for the sin debt in full. GOD is no respecter of persons and neither was CHRIST because HE gave HIS life and shed HIS blood for all who will place their faith in HIM. As we studied earlier, there were the ungodly and those who thought they were Godly, the Jews or Jewish proselytes. All were in need of salvation.

“Christ died for the ungodly.” The word “for” means “in place of.” CHRIST died in place of the un-Godly and all were and are un- Godly.

GOD went to the full limit for a people that HE gave the right to choose. At the exact moment in time, HE allowed CHRIST to come to earth, live, give HIS life for their sins, be resurrected as proof that CHRIST conquered both sin and its consequence of eternal death. CHRIST revealed Himself to over 500 people on earth after HIS resurrection and then ascended into heaven to sit at the right hand of GOD, HIS Father and the Father of all who place their faith in CHRIST.

Why did GOD do this for the people of earth? Because HE loved them. HE had created mankind to have fellowship with HIM but Adam and Eve sinned and as GOD told them, if they ate the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, they would die. They did and as a result all offspring of humanity inherited both physical death which we witness every day and eternal death, which we have been told about but will not witness until we breathe our last breath.

Ephesians 1:4:

4 For He (GOD) chose us in Him (JESUS), before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love

This goes back to the question I raised some time ago, “Where were you before you were conceived?” Based upon this scripture, I believe we were and are in the mind of GOD. I believe HIS foreknowledge allowed HIM to see every person who would ever be conceived as a human coming from the offspring of Adam and Eve. Consider that if a critical ancestor in our lineage had died, we would not exist.

Therefore, those who HE foreknew needed an opportunity to be conceived and have the opportunity to make their own decision regarding CHRIST. I look at earth as GOD giving humans a second opportunity to choose HIM and eternal life over death which Adam and eve chose by eating the fruit from the knowledge of good and evil. So how do you choose?

Paul states well the love that GOD has for all humans in verses 8 and 9:

8 But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us! 9 Much more then, since we have now been declared righteous by His blood, we will be saved through Him from wrath.

CHRIST giving HIS life is one thing but there is so much more. Since Christians have been declared righteous by placing their faith in CHRIST, 
they are “saved” from GOD’S wrath. GOD hates sin because sin robs people of their eternal life and fellowship with HIM. What HE has waiting those who place their faith in CHRIST is beyond anything the human mind can think or dream about! HE does not want anyone to miss out but the choice is theirs to make.

When we could care less about HIM, CHRIST gave HIS life for just you and just for me. Let’s continue in verses 10 and 11:

10 For if, while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, then how much more, having been reconciled, will we be saved by His life! 11 And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

We have now received this reconciliation through Him (JESUS). Let’s explore a little further about original sin.

Death through Adam and Life through Christ. (My insert)

12 Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man (Adam), and death through sin, in this way death (Physical and Eternal) spread to all men, because all sinned. 13 In fact, sin was in the world before the law, but sin is not charged to a person’s account when there is no law. (Ignorance of the law or knowledge of the law, does not determine physical death.) 14 Nevertheless, death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those who did not sin in the likeness of Adam’s transgression. He is a prototype of the Coming One (JESUS). 15 But the gift is not like the trespass. (Whereas when Adam sinned, death came to all humans but when CHRIST gave HIS life to pay the debt for sin, salvation did not automatically come to all humans.) For if by the one man’s trespass the many died, how much more have the grace of God and the gift overflowed to the many by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ. 16 And the gift is not like the one man’s sin, because from one sin came the judgment, resulting in condemnation, but from many trespasses came the gift, resulting in • justification. 17 Since by the one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive the overflow of grace and the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ.

Let’s read Romans 5:18-21: (My Insert)

18 So then, as through one trespass (Adam) there is condemnation for everyone, so also through one righteous act (JESUS) there is life-giving justification for everyone. 19 For just as through one man’s disobedience (Adam) the many were made sinners, so also through the one man’s obedience (JESUS) the many will be made righteous. 20 The law came along to multiply the trespass. (The law reveals how far short humans fail to meet GOD’S standard of perfection) But where sin multiplied, grace multiplied even more 21 so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace will reign through righteousness, resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

JESUS gave HIS sinless life by the shedding of HIS blood just for you and for all who place their faith in HIM. When a person places his or her faith in HIM, it triggers a multitude of Spiritual happenings:

Salvation, rebirth of the spirit, become GOD’S child, eternal life, citizenship in Heaven, made righteous, justified, sanctified, mercy, grace, redemption, expiation, forgiveness, the indwelling Holy Spirit and so much MORE!

But if you have never accepted CHRIST as your Savior, you cannot comprehend these gifts from GOD to you through CHRIST. Accept HIM as your Savior and begin the joy of your salvation through CHRIST. You will have difficult times, as well as, times of great joy. 

CHRIST will NEVER FORSAKE YOU OR LEAVE YOU. After all HE bought you with HIS life and shed blood. The world hates Christians but this is not our home. Keep in mind that humans were not made for time but for eternity! Blessings!!!

Bible Study - Do Over - The Gift You Can't Give Yourself - Romans 3:21-28 - December 8, 2013

Bible Study – Do Over – The Gift You Can’t Give Yourself – December 8, 2013

This is lesson two in our series entitled “Do Over: Experience New Life in Christ.”

Our scripture is Romans 3:21-28.

JESUS offers a person something he or she cannot give to him or herself and that is a right relationship with GOD. GOD gave the law and HE set the standard for a person to be justified and declared righteous before HIM. JESUS met that standard. JESUS willingly gave HIS earthly life, by the shedding of HIS blood to pay, in full, the debt of sin. Why was it necessary for CHRIST to give HIS life by shedding HIS blood?

Let’s read Hebrews 9:22:

22 According to the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.

The blood of the sacrifice was sprinkled on the mercy seat as proof that the sacrifice had been made. The wrath and demand for righteousness by GOD was satisfied when JESUS gave HIS life to pay the debt for sin. JESUS’ blood was, in essence, sprinkled on the mercy seat. JESUS was the perfect acceptable sacrifice to pay once, in full and forever the price GOD demanded for sin. GOD, because of HIS love and HIS grace, declares all who accept CHRIST as their Savior to be forgiven for their sins, justified and righteous.

There is no other way to escape judgment and be guaranteed citizenship in heaven other than by placing your faith in CHRIST.

Let’s consider GOD’S part. HE is sovereign and is in control. GOD is GOD.

The Apostle Paul stated in 2 Corinthians 5:21:

21 He (GOD) made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

GOD chose to make CHRIST to be sin for all who will place their faith in HIM. This means that those who place their faith in CHRIST are sinless and therefore righteous in GOD’S sight. As Christians take steps of faith, they unlock the righteousness which GOD has imputed to them. 

CHRIST voluntarily shed HIS sinless blood to pay, in full, the penalty for sin. By doing so CHRIST established a dynamic such that at the instant a person asks CHRIST to forgive him or her for his or her sins, they are forgiven. That person experiences the miracle of rebirth in his or her spirit, which makes him or her GOD’S child. As GOD’S child, he or she is instantly indwelled by the Holy Spirit. Once a person is born into GOD’S family, he or she cannot be unborn. Disobedience prevents a Christian from earning rewards that otherwise he or she could earn. CHRIST’S shed blood cleanses all who accept CHRIST by faith and as such the Holy Spirit can occupy the person who has been redeemed by HIS shed blood.  CHRIST’S shed blood opened the path between GOD and mankind. The way to GOD was opened. What does that mean?

Keeping the law was and is not good enough for a person to become righteous because there is the letter of the law and the spirit of the law. A person may keep the letter of the law but no one can keep the spirit of the law e.g. he who hates his brother is guilty of murder. Since keeping the spirit of the law is impossible, every person needs a sure and guaranteed path to have a personal, intimate, loving relationship with GOD. But that pesky sin blocks a person from having that relationship.

GOD needed to do something about sin that would get rid of it, once and forever, as a barrier to HIM. That is why CHRIST willingly came to earth to live such that HE was the sinless Lamb. Unlike, a defenseless lamb, CHRIST could have called legions of angels to come and rescue HIM. But if HE had, then people would have been left with the animal sacrificial system, which left sin hanging over their heads. But thanks to CHRIST and HIS faithfulness, that was not the case. CHRIST gave HIS life to pay the debt GOD required for sin and that was the perfect sacrifice.

Sin is a term archers used for missing the bull’s-eye or to wander from the intended path. GOD requires perfection. All human effort falls short of GOD’S requirement of perfection. That is why CHRIST gave HIS sinless life to become the righteousness of GOD for all who place their faith in HIM.

This section of scripture, Romans 3:21-26, has been referred to as the core of Paul’s gospel message. It has been considered theologically rich as we will see as we study these verses. Up to this point in our study, Paul made it clear that the most devout Jew and the most wayward non-Jew or Gentile were both in need of salvation through faith in CHRIST. The Jews believe righteousness can be attained by being a devout Jew but it cannot. Righteousness comes only through CHRIST. The Gentiles often could care less. But to GOD both are precious to HIM and HIS desire is for both of them to become HIS righteous children, have a personal relationship with HIM and obediently serve HIM, as HE directs. Let’s explore.

Let’s read 3:21:

21 But now, apart from the law, God’s righteousness has been revealed —attested by the Law and the Prophets

“But now” marks a shift in Paul’s presentation. Up to this point, Paul highlighted the unrighteousness of humans. “But now”, Paul was introducing the way to righteousness and the hope that is in CHRIST for all who place their faith in HIM. Paul made it clear that obeying the law did not make a person righteous. GOD’S righteousness is separate from the law. The law revealed how far short a person failed to meet GOD’S standard for righteousness.

GOD’S righteousness was revealed in CHRIST, which was confirmed by the law and prophesy as GOD gave it through the various prophets. Throughout the Old Testament, GOD revealed HIS righteous nature.

GOD desired to impute HIS righteousness to all who desired to have an intimate relationship with HIM but sin was the barrier. Sin could not be resolved by shedding the blood of animals nor by the efforts of mankind. Even the law, rituals, ceremonies and all the things that mankind did to reach up to GOD failed. But GOD had a plan from the beginning of time to redeem mankind from sin and have a personal, intimate relationship with all who will place their faith in CHRIST.

The timing for this event was critical. At the right time, GOD allowed JESUS, HIS only Son, to be born as a human. The Romans had developed the road systems for better traveling, thus good for the spread of the gospel. GOD allowed CHRIST to come to earth to live among them. HE was 100% human, yet 100% divine.

HE left HIS glory in heaven but HE could have accessed that power at any moment but chose not to, in order to fulfill GOD’S purpose for HIM and mankind. HE experienced all the things that humans experience, yet without sin. HE was sinless but HE knows what it was like to be tempted to sin. That is why CHRIST is the advocate before GOD for Christians when they sin. When Christians sin, Satan accuses them but CHRIST comes to their defense because they are covered by HIS shed blood.

JESUS was sinless, HE fulfilled the law and GOD declared JESUS righteous in HIS own right. GOD tested JESUS and found HIM to be flawless, thus the perfect sacrifice to conquer sin. The shed blood of JESUS paid, in full, for the original sin that sentenced mankind to eternal death.

When CHRIST gave HIS life by the shedding of HIS blood, HE broke the barrier of sin which existed between GOD and mankind.  CHRIST opened the way for all humans, who will place their faith in CHRIST, to have a personal, intimate relationship with GOD through CHRIST.

Since GOD made mankind with the freedom to choose, mankind had to choose whether or not to have that personal, intimate relationship with HIM that HE desired.

Although sin had been conquered through CHRIST, in order for those seeking the personal, intimate relationship with GOD that HE desired, GOD did something that only GOD can do. Since JESUS was sinless and righteous, GOD declared every person who places his or her faith in CHRIST, righteous. GOD imputes the righteousness of CHRIST to those who place his or her faith in CHRIST.

Consider the fact that JESUS, as a human, had to trust GOD and place HIS faith in GOD completely to take HIS earthly life in death and resurrect HIM. I believe this was a critical moment in the life of CHRIST when HE shouted from the cross, Matthew 27:42:

46 About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out with a loud voice, “Elí, Elí, lemá sabachtháni?” that is, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?”

Did GOD abandon CHRIST? Or was it the instant that CHRIST had to make a decision to continue to trust GOD and place HIS faith in GOD or take matters into HIS own hands? CHRIST chose to trust GOD with HIS earthly life, which GOD resurrected on the third day. CHRIST received HIS Glorified body.  

Let’s read Romans 3:22-26:

22 —that is, God’s righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ, to all who believe, since there is no distinction. 23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. 24 They are justified freely by His grace through the •redemption that is in Christ Jesus. 25 God presented Him as a • propitiation through faith in His blood, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His restraint God passed over the sins previously committed. 26 God presented Him to demonstrate His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be righteous and declare righteous the one who has faith in Jesus.

GOD’S righteousness is manifested to all who place their faith in CHRIST. GOD does not discriminate. GOD, because of HIS love, knows that all have sinned and fall short of HIS expectations of righteousness. Righteousness is GOD’S character; it is who HE is and it is HIS desire for all who place their faith in CHRIST.

GOD justifies those who place their faith in CHRIST. As we have discussed before, justification is to cleanse the person who has placed their faith in CHRIST such that they are perfect in the sight of GOD. Christians appear to GOD justified freely by HIS grace. To be justified is to be declared righteous, which is to be in right-standing with GOD. The word used for “justify” carries the idea of “ongoing action.” Once a person is justified through CHRIST, his or her justification continues. Some use the word “justification” to help us understand it such as - just-as-if-he-or-she-had-never-sinned. Christians must be careful not to become self-righteous. Christians are sinners saved by GOD’S grace. HE justifies those who place their faith in CHRIST because of HIS grace and the redemptive power of the shed blood of CHRIST. HIS shed blood paid, in full, the price for sin. Christians have been bought with a price thus redeemed from the consequences of sin, which is eternal death.

There is another word Paul used “propitiation.”  Propitiation deals with turning away wrath by an offering. GOD accepted the shed blood of CHRIST as sufficient to turn away HIS wrath toward those who place their faith in CHRIST. Some Bible scholars don’t like to use the word “propitiation” because of its association to pagan worship to appease one of their false gods. Instead Bible scholars like to use the word “expiation” which is the act of putting an end to the guilt of an offense. When we consider the phrase “sacrificial atonement,” it shifts the focus on to “forgiveness” rather than “appeasement.”  

Righteousness is the character of GOD. The shed blood of CHRIST, because of GOD’S righteousness, resulted in GOD’S forgiveness for the sins of all who place their faith in CHRIST - because in His restraint God passed over the sins previously committed.. GOD presented HIS only Son, JESUS, at precisely the right time to reveal HIS righteousness. Because JESUS was sinless, HE was righteous in HIS own right. Our sin was, in essence, placed upon CHRIST and HIS righteousness was placed upon those who place their faith in CHRIST.  

2 Corinthians 5:21:

21 He made the One who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

To me this is a process, which I think is sanctification. GOD perfects Christians through the renewing of their minds as Paul stated in Romans 12:2:

2 Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.

Ephesians 4:22-23:  

22 You took off your former way of life, the old self that is corrupted by deceitful desires; 23 you are being renewed in the spirit of your minds; 24 you put on the new self, the one created according to God’s likeness in righteousness and purity of the truth.

Boasting Excluded

Let’s read Romans 3:27-28:

27 Where then is boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? By one of works? No, on the contrary, by a law of faith. 28 For we conclude that a man is justified by faith apart from the works of the law.

Paul makes it very clear, since salvation through CHRIST is GOD’S plan, no human can boast of anything he or she does to earn salvation. Paul makes it clear that obeying the law or doing various works of the law does not achieve salvation. There is one thing and that is the law of faith. Faith alone in CHRIST, apart from the works of the law, justifies a person before GOD. Salvation, justification and righteousness come directly from GOD and are activated by a person’s faith in CHRIST.

WOW!!! Such a Magnificant Father Christians have through the miracle of rebirth. When a person accepts CHRIST as his or her Savior a miracle happens in an instant. He or she is born Spiritually into GOD’S family and becomes GOD’S child. They have all the rights and privileges as GOD’S child. The fact that he or she has become a child of GOD is assured and confirmed by the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Most Christians do not have that inner assurance that they are GOD’S child. It is GOD’S mercy and grace. HE chose it to be that way for all who place their faith in CHRIST.

Have you placed your faith in CHRIST? If not now is the time. Ask HIM to forgive you for your sins and for HIM to come into your life.

If you are a Christian and your faith has grown cold and you desire for your life in CHRIST to be rekindled, confess it and ask CHRIST to forgive you and restore the joy of your salvation. Know that GOD’S love for you has not changed and HE waits for you to come back to HIM regardless of what you have done. The shed blood of CHRIST cleanses Christians from all sin – past, present and future – justification is ongoing. That is GOD’S provision because of HIS mercy and grace. HE is waiting, don’t delay.

JESUS offers you what you cannot give yourself; a right relationship with GOD. Sounds too good to be true! It is not your or a man-made plan, it is GOD’S plan. It is yours to accept or reject. Blessings!!!

Bible Study - Do Over - A Problem You Can't Solve Yourself - Romans 1:16-17; 2:5-11; 3:9-12 - December 1, 2013

Bible Study – Do Over – A Problem You Can’t Solve Yourself – December 1, 2013

This is lesson one in our series entitled “Do Over: Experience New Life in Christ.”

Our scripture is Romans 1:16-17; 2:5-11; 3:9-12.

SPECIAL NOTE: My wife and I will be on travel and the availability of the Internet is uncertain so there may be a miss or two in publishing the lessons. I hope to get the December 8, 2013 lesson published. Anyway blessings and you may get several lessons at one time.

For the next seven weeks we will have three lessons in Romans, one special lesson for Christmas, then three more lessons in Romans.

How do you define a “Do Over?” Some define it as a complete remodel. For a house or business it is generally tearing out everything inside and starting over with a new interior. It could include the exterior of the building as well. Often a “Do Over” is required for business or even a house to meet a standard building code – structure, foundation, electrical, plumbing, fire walls, fire sprinklers, hand rails and the list goes on.

So why are we studying a “Do Over” for Christians?

Christians get into a rut. A rut has been described as a grave with the ends knocked out. Christians work in their own strength trying to measure up by their works and they burn out. They lose the joy of their salvation. They have Christian friends, church staff or leaders who have hurt them or disappointed them. It is easy to let these disappointments lead to us throwing up our hands and saying, “What is the use!”

Non-Christians often look at Christians and comment that they are no different from themselves. What is missing?

The Apostle Paul wrote the letter or treatise to the Christians in Rome. When he wrote the letter he had not visited Rome but his desire was to visit them. So his letter to the Roman Christians was Paul’s way of giving them a heads up regarding Christian doctrine and principles that he embraced as truth and Spiritual fact based upon his training and knowledge of the scriptures. Keep in mind that Paul had been trained by the best teacher of the Jewish faith. Paul was a Pharisee before his encounter with CHRIST changed his life forever. Let’s explore!

Let’s read Romans 1:16-17:

16 For [Because] I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is God’s power for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, and also to the Greek. 17 For [Because] in it (The Gospel) God’s righteousness is revealed from faith to faith, just as it is written: The righteous will live by faith.

First, Paul made it clear that he was not ashamed of the gospel. The Greek word used for “for” indicates purpose and can be translated “Because.” As we read verses 16 and 17 where the word “for” is used to begin the verse, we can insert the English word “because.”

The word for “gospel” derives its roots from the Greek word that we translate into evangelism or “announce good news” which is the Good News of CHRIST. The Good News of CHRIST is embodied in all the facts regarding scripture prophesy and HIS birth, life, death, resurrection, ascension, intercession and the return of the Holy Spirit to indwell all Christians.

As stated earlier, keep in mind that the Apostle Paul was first a devout Jew. He was trained by the best Jewish teacher, Gamaliel, regarding Jewish law, commandments, customs and rituals. Paul, as a Pharisee, was a zealot for GOD and an obedient servant of GOD, even to point of persecuting and killing Christians. He was keenly focused on annihilating this new threatening religious group to the Jewish religion called “The Way” who would later be called “Christian”.

CHRIST revealed Himself to Paul as Paul was on his way to round up Christians in Damascus. That encounter with CHRIST gave Paul a “Do Over.” Paul took his time to consider what had happened to him and checked it out with Christian leaders in Jerusalem such as The Apostle Peter and the half-brother of JESUS, James.

Paul, being a Jew, knew the scriptures. Based upon the scriptures, he knew that JESUS came to give the Jews the first opportunity to accept HIM as the promised Messiah. GOD gave the Jews that opportunity because GOD had chosen the Jewish people to be HIS people long ago. We know from New Testament scripture that some accepted CHRIST as the promised Messiah and their Savior but most rejected HIM. The Jews were looking for a political Messiah who would lead them to conquer Roman rule and establish Israel as a mighty earthly kingdom.

CHRIST ministered to the Jews but once that had been done the next step was to take the plan of salvation, through CHRIST, to the Gentiles. GOD called Paul through CHRIST for this purpose. This personal encounter with CHRIST on the road to Damascus gave Paul the status of Apostle. To be considered an Apostle, the person had to have a special calling by CHRIST.

The Apostle Paul made it clear that CHRIST was for both the Jew and the Greek, non-Greek or Gentile. The message of CHRIST is the power that GOD uses in the lives of all people to bring them face to face with their need of salvation from sin and its consequence, eternal death. GOD works in the hearts of every person to bring them to a point of decision. They either accept or reject CHRIST as their Savior.

Paul made it clear in verse 17, that salvation, through faith in CHRIST, allows the righteousness of GOD to be manifested through Christians. Paul stated that the righteousness of GOD is revealed from faith to faith. Salvation is just step one in the process of being saved or sanctified which will be completed the instant Christians exit their earthly bodies and see CHRIST face to face. The shed blood of CHRIST makes all who place their faith in CHRIST righteous before GOD. This is GOD’S plan and HIS gift of grace. GOD is sovereign and HE chose to impute righteousness to all who place their faith in CHRIST. As they exercise their faith and grow in their experiential knowledge of CHRIST, they build a personal relationship with HIM. Christians begin to comprehend and understand the righteousness of GOD which has been imputed to them, as they obediently take steps of faith.

Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 5:21:

21 He (GOD) made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Even though Christians are secure in CHRIST, they must live each day exercising their faith, thus they live from faith to faith. Christians have the light of HIS presence in their lives and GOD’S desire is for them to share that light according to HIS plan and purpose. Righteousness is activated when Christians take steps of faith in their daily walk. JESUS said it best in Luke 9:23:

23 Then He said to them all, “If anyone wants to come with Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me.

First of all, a Christian does not take up his or her cross daily to be saved but to serve. Christians cannot lose their salvation. Once saved always saved! Just as you cannot ever become unborn physically, you cannot be unborn Spiritually. As Christians journey through life, circumstances they encounter can result in them either growing in their faith or compromising. But there is something Christians need to consider. Are the circumstances being encountered the result of their own doing?

CHRIST makes it clear that being a Christian is not easy. Obedience to GOD, as led by the Holy Spirit, yields rewards. As Christians take steps of faith, they see the hand and power of GOD at work which builds their confidence and trust in GOD. As they grow Spiritually, GOD gives them other steps of faith, which will likely be larger.     

Satan is ready to defeat Christians at any split second as he spots a chink in the Christian’s amour. Christians must stay focused upon CHRIST and HIS strength, leadership and power in their lives. They are secure in CHRIST but if Satan can quench the flame of the presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives, doubt can quickly begin to take over.

Salvation from sin and its consequence is a problem no person can solve by themselves.  

Let’s read Romans 2:5-11: Because we are sinful, all people are subject to GOD’S judgment:

5 But because of your hardness and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath for yourself in the day of wrath, when God’s righteous judgment is revealed. 6 He will repay each one according to his works : 7 eternal life to those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor, and immortality; 8 but wrath and indignation to those who are self-seeking and disobey the truth but are obeying unrighteousness; 9 affliction and distress for every human being who does evil, first to the Jew, and also to the Greek; 10 but glory, honor, and peace for everyone who does what is good, first to the Jew, and also to the Greek. 11 There is no favoritism with God.

In Chapter 2, Paul gave some of the principles that guide GOD’S judgment. He apparently was directing his remarks to his fellow Jews. The Jews were quick to judge the Gentiles or non-Jews but it was hard for them to see their own short comings. Paul’s desire was for the Jews to see their need for CHRIST. Just because they were GOD’S chosen did not mean that they were exempt from HIS judgment. The shed blood of animals was only a place holder until the ultimate price was paid in full by GOD’S only Son, JESUS. The Jews had the law but keeping the law did not exempt them from judgment. There was also the letter of the law and the spirit of the law. GOD’S requirement was for all people to keep both the letter and the spirit of the law.

The Jews refused to face the reality of GOD’S judgment. Those who are not in right relationship with HIM are disobedient and do works of unrighteousness thus they will reap the wrath of GOD.

The only way a person can escape the wrath of GOD is to accept, by faith, CHRIST as his or her Savior. HIS shed blood washes away all sin – past, present and future thus Christians are always righteous before GOD. Christians must keep in mind that they do earn rewards as they obediently serve GOD as led by the Holy Spirit. Some of the rewards Christians experience upon earth such as growing from faith to faith as they obediently serve. Keep in mind that it is not being busy doing that earns rewards but doing as led by the Holy Spirit.

The Jews, their heritage and traditions made it hard for them to see their need for salvation through CHRIST. When a person believes he or she is working or earning their salvation it is hard for him or her to trust any other way. They considered themselves good enough because they were chosen by GOD, had the law and lived by the dictates of the law. But they failed to realize how woefully short they fell regarding the spirit of the law.

Let’s consider the person who has been born into a Christian family and has grown up in the Christian church. That person could consider that he or she is a Christian, after all he or she has always been in church, likely worked or served in the church. That person is no different from the Jew who thought being born a Jew meant that he or she was in right-standing, justified or righteous before GOD. This is a most dangerous position to be in. Because a person has been born into a Christian family and raised in a Christian home and church has to realize that does not make him or her righteous before GOD.

As I heard someone use the analogy many years ago, that kittens in an oven don’t make them biscuits.

Paul was addressing the need for people to consider their true relationship with GOD – Was it real or imaginary? That is what all Christians must do today. We are to be honest before GOD – are we in right-standing with HIM through our relationship with CHRIST or are we playing like we are? GOD knows our hearts and HIS desire is for us to be genuine before HIM.

Verse 6 makes it clear that there will be payday some day. CHRIST gives eternal life to those who seek to obediently serve HIM and GOD’S wrath will come to those who do not seek a real relationship with HIM through faith in CHRIST.

What reveals our relationship with GOD through CHRIST? Our relationship is revealed through the works or deeds of righteousness. It is allowing GOD to reveal where HE wants Christians to serve. Dr. Henry Blackaby stated in “Experiencing God” written by him and Claude V. King and published by LifeWay, One LifeWay Place, Nashville, TN 37234-0175,  When you are in right relationship with GOD through CHRIST and GOD reveals or opens your Spiritual eyes to what HE is doing around you, that is your invitation to join HIM in that work. GOD works in many ways to call Christians to join HIM in meeting the various needs around them. When prompted by the Holy Spirit, respond and trust that GOD has prepared the opportunity. Oh, Satan will do all he can to discourage you but trust in the leadership of the Holy Spirit.

GOD does not play favorites regarding the judgment of those who reject HIS provision for salvation, which is placing your faith in CHRIST. Rich man, poor man, beggar man or thief, as the old saying goes; all people will be accountable before GOD. Those who have received CHRIST, as their Savior, will not be judged but they will receive rewards based upon their obedience to GOD. Others will be judged by GOD.

GOD makes it clear. The question is where are you in relationship with GOD through CHRIST? We must keep in mind verse 11:

11 There is no favoritism with God.

GOD cannot be anyone but Himself. HE is Who HE is, HE does not change like the wind or on a whelm. HE is consistent. HE told Moses in Exodus 3:14:

14 God replied to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: I AM has sent me to you.”

Let’s read Romans 3:9-12: Even if we think we are righteous, we are not.

9 What then? Are we any better? Not at all! For we have previously charged that both Jews and Gentiles are all under sin, 10 as it is written: There is no one righteous, not even one. 11 There is no one who understands; there is no one who seeks God. 12 All have turned away; all alike have become useless. There is no one who does what is good, not even one.

The Apostle Paul is still focused on Jews versus Gentiles. “What then?” was a transitional question to lead his readers to the real question, are we (Jews) better than the Gentiles or non-Jews? Because Jews have the law and structured worship are they better than the Gentiles who do not? Absolutely NOT! The bottom line is that all people, regardless of their religious orientation, are all sinners and need Salvation. Paul made it clear that he was not giving his opinion in this matter but “As it is written in the scriptures.”

No one in their own right or through their own effort can earn their way to heaven. Left to our own devices, it is not in our human nature or our unrighteous nature to seek GOD. The tendency is for all to depend upon themselves. GOD knows that because humans are in a fallen state, they need salvation and HE provides the way to Himself through CHRIST. GOD, because of HIS love for humans, works within every person to woo him or her to HIM. HE reveals Himself to every person and when HE does, he or she has a choice either to accept CHRIST or reject HIM. Before CHRIST, those seeking a relationship with GOD went to the temple. Since the passion of CHRIST, HE opened the way for all who place their faith in CHRIST to have a personal, intimate relationship with HIM. We know that the Holy Spirit confirms this by the indwelling Holy Spirit.

The bottom line is that all have sinned regardless of our ethnicity or apparent physical wealth or physical gifts. Being born into a Christian family or the son or daughter of parents who serve CHRIST does not impute righteousness to that child. It does expose the child to the Bible and teachings of CHRIST but each person must make a choice.

What happens if a fetus dies or a child dies? I personally believe there is an age of accountability. It is not a numerical age but an age only GOD knows and HE will be the judge. Our part is to be obedient as HE leads us to those who are to receive either salvation or to plant a seed, water, take out some weeds or whatever is needed in their lives which will open the path to their salvation or recommitment of their lives to CHRIST.

The key is for every Christian to be obedient to the opportunity GOD provides. Because Christians know the truth and have been redeemed from eternal death by the shed blood of CHRIST, GOD declares them righteous and justified before HIM.

To be made righteous is to be made in right-standing with GOD. To be “justified” is to stand before GOD, thoroughly cleansed by the shed blood of CHRIST, such that a Christian appears to GOD as if he or she has never sinned or using a play on the word “justification” - “just-as-if-I-had-never-sinned.” Once a person receives CHRIST as his or her Savior, his or her Spiritual growth begins. GOD removes all the things that encumber him or her from obediently serving HIM as led by the Holy Spirit. As we read in Romans 1:17 - For [Because] in it (Salvation) God’s righteousness is revealed from faith to faith, just as it is written: The righteous will live by faith.

All Christians have the opportunity to obediently serve GOD and to experience GOD’S righteousness being activated in their lives by stepping out in faith as led by the Holy Spirit. Do not step out in your own faith but as GOD provides the opportunity. As Christians step out on faith, GOD provides as the Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 9:10-15:

10 Now the One who provides seed for the sower and bread for food will provide and multiply your seed and increase the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way for all generosity, which produces thanksgiving to God through us. 12 For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints, but is also overflowing in many acts of thanksgiving to God. 13 They will glorify God for your obedience to the confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with others through the proof provided by this service. 14 And they will have deep affection for you in their prayers on your behalf because of the surpassing grace of God in you. 15 Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.  

The opportunity to obediently serve GOD comes in many different forms. Ask HIM to open your Spiritual eyes, which are the eyes of your heart, to discern those opportunities. Trust HIS leadership. Most likely you will stump your Spiritual toes a time or two but how else do you learn as you walk with HIM. Responding in faith often reveals our nature. Do not get discouraged but seek the fullness of HIS presence in your life and wait upon HIM. 

I know in the early days of my journey with CHRIST, I was very eager to serve HIM and I got ahead of HIM. I often thought GOD was dragging HIS feet and HE needed to catch up with me. Well, GOD lets us run ahead of HIM but just know HE teaches us as we journey with HIM. I had to learn to wait upon HIM. This is not to discourage you or to slow you down. GOD gives the balance in our lives through the indwelling Holy Spirit. We are all created differently and HE works within our nature to make us and mold us into the image HE desires for us. Some of us need to have some rough corners knocked off and HE knows how to do it. I have been journeying with the LORD since 1971, at the age of 34, and HE is still working on me. It is all part of the “Do Over” program. Happy Do Over. Blessings!!!

 

 

Bible Study - Thanksgiving - Thank You LORD - Psalm 100 Plus - November 24, 2013

Bible Study – Thanksgiving - Thank You LORD – November 24, 2013

This is a special lesson to focus on Thanksgiving but not the day but thanksgiving and praise to GOD because HE is GOD. Since we are approaching Thanksgiving Day, it gives us an opportunity to reflect.

Our scripture is Psalm 100:1-5.

When I was growing up, no merchant would dare display any Christmas decorations or signage before Thanksgiving. The radio stations would not dare play a Christmas carol before Thanksgiving. Can you imagine living before television? But the day after Thanksgiving, it was let the celebration of Christmas begin.

Each year we have seen Thanksgiving steadily being overshadowed by Christmas. It must be because America is becoming more Christian or is it greed? LOL, if you know what that means – laugh-out-loud or so I have been told by our grandchildren.

Suppose Christians agreed to stop celebrating Christmas. I wonder what reaction there would be from the business community. This year Christmas is in full swing weeks before celebrating Thanksgiving Day.  We need to pause and consider Thanksgiving and the things for which we are thankful. Are we thankful for things seen or things unseen? This reflects the hearts of society. We enjoy the time off from work and being with family. Do we reflect and consider for what we are truly thankful and grateful? Often, it is when we lose something we have taken for granted that we wish we had appreciated it while we had the opportunity.

Life upon earth is fleeting, let us pause, reflect and consider the relationships and things in life and the life to come which are important. Life upon earth is temporary but eternity is forever. But while we are living in the body of flesh, it is hard to fathom eternity, yet it is a reality.

For the past six weeks we have been studying, “When Relationships Collide.” We have studied about conflicts or preventing conflicts from escalating:

-          regarding relationships between siblings (Martha and Mary) – Conflict can arise because of different priorities,

-         between those who have authority over us (King Saul and David) – Conflict can arise when thinking only of oneself,

-          between family (Abram and Lot)- Conflict can be avoided if we are willing to flex and not insist it is our way or no way,

-         between Christians (Paul and church leaders regarding Gentile Christians)  - There are times when we should never compromise or flex when it is a matter of Biblical right and wrong – Stand Your Ground,

-         bruised ego (Nabal, Abigail and David)  - Trust the leadership of the Holy Spirit when led to step in to keep a bad situation from getting worse,

-         Sibling rivalry (Joseph and his brothers) - GOD is at work in the lives of HIS children even in the midst of conflict. During the dark times in our lives is when we must practice in the dark what we have learned in the light.

These lessons revealed principles for resolving conflict or preventing serious matters from becoming worse. How we resolve or handle conflicts can reveal our Spiritual growth and maturity. When we go through times of conflicts or matters in our lives, as GOD’S children, HE always means it for good.

The process of sanctification is not easy but it is Spiritually rewarding. GOD allows certain things to come into our lives for us to be able to help others experiencing the same or similar difficulties, as the Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 1:3-4:

3 Praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort. 4 He comforts us in all in our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any kind of affliction, through the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

It is difficult to be thankful and joyful when we are going through tough times but James, the brother of JESUS wrote in James 1:2-4:

2 Consider it a great joy, my • brothers, whenever you experience various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4 But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.

It takes a level of Spiritual maturity for a Christian to consider it great joy when trials come their way, as a natural part of their life.

Our study focuses upon expressing thanks and praises to GOD as a natural outflow of our heart.

Christians can learn the Christian jargon and utter words of thanksgiving and praise which comes from our mouths but not from our hearts. Spiritual growth and maturity produces thanks and praise naturally as the result of an intimate, loving relationship with GOD through CHRIST. As Christians, when we think of GOD or CHRIST what comes to our minds?

Bible scholars are not sure who wrote Psalm 100. Some attribute it to David. Whoever the author was, that person had a special relationship with GOD. Their heart overflowed with thanksgiving and praise. Some scholars think that the Psalm was sung as worshipers were entering the temple area. Verses 1 and 2 were sung by those entering the court area and verses 3 and 4 were sung by a group of worshipers already inside the temple courtyard like a response to verses 1 and 2. 

Let’s explore.

Thank GOD through Joyful Service.

Let’s read Psalm 100:1-2:

1 Shout triumphantly to the Lord, all the earth. 2 Serve the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs.

The Psalmist begins with a triumphant shout of victory over an enemy. Spiritual battles have been fought and the person fighting those battles sees victory in GOD. Those who shout this victory cry have placed their full confidence and reliance upon GOD and HIS sovereignty. It is a shout of knowing that GOD is truth and victory over all. GOD is faithful, trustworthy, eternal and unchanging. The key is that this naturally flows from the heart of those who truly know GOD.

The Psalmist begins verse 2 with the word Serve. We can shout praises of thanksgiving and to know GOD intellectually but we need to put our faith and words into action by obediently serving GOD as HE leads us by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Christians are to serve the Lord with gladness. Gladness comes from the heart. Gladness comes from the security of knowing that GOD is sovereign and is in charge of all things. It is all about trust, which comes from the heart. Trust comes from building a dynamic, personal, intimate relationship with GOD. Since the passion of CHRIST, when we are in right relationship with GOD through CHRIST, then we can naturally come into the very presence of GOD with gladness and joyful songs.  

Let’s read Psalm 100:3-5:

3 Acknowledge that • Yahweh is God. He made us, and we are His — His people, the sheep of His pasture. 4 Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and praise His name.

The Psalmist stated that it was important to acknowledge the one true covenant GOD, Yahweh. There is no room for Christians to compromise in their relationship with GOD. HE made us and HE chose all people to have a personal relationship with HIM but all must, in turn, choose HIM.

In the Old Testament, GOD chose the Israelites to be HIS people and for them to be a witness to all nations, the world. GOD made a covenant for the Israelites to consider after they had experienced HIM, as HE, through Moses, led them out of Egyptian slavery.  HE revealed HIS presence through their journey from Egypt to Mount Sinai. HE prepared HIS covenant for them to consider and had Moses to reveal the covenant to them, which he did. The Israelites accepted GOD’S covenant as recorded in Exodus 19:3-13:

3 Moses went up the mountain to God, and the Lord called to him from the mountain: “This is what you must say to the house of Jacob, and explain to the Israelites: 4 ‘You have seen what I did to the Egyptians and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Me. 5 Now if you will listen to Me and carefully keep My covenant, you will be My own possession out of all the peoples, although all the earth is Mine, 6 and you will be My kingdom of priests and My holy nation.’ These are the words that you are to say to the Israelites.” 7 After Moses came back, he summoned the elders of the people and set before them all these words that the Lord had commanded him. 8 Then all the people responded together, “We will do all that the Lord has spoken.” So Moses brought the people’s words back to the Lord. 9 The Lord said to Moses, “I am going to come to you in a dense cloud, so that the people will hear when I speak with you and will always believe you.” Then Moses reported the people’s words to the Lord. 10 And the Lord told Moses, “Go to the people and consecrate them today and tomorrow. They must wash their clothes 11 and be prepared by the third day, for on the third day the Lord will come down on Mount Sinai in the sight of all the people. 12 Put boundaries for the people all around the mountain and say: Be careful that you don’t go up on the mountain or touch its base. Anyone who touches the mountain will be put to death. 13 No hand may touch him; instead he will be stoned or shot with arrows. No animal or man will live. When the ram’s horn sounds a long blast, they may go up the mountain.”

Our last week’s lesson was on Jacob. Some 400 years have passed and the Israelites were in slavery in Egypt. GOD is eternal and keeps HIS covenant. HE is not fickle but is trustworthy. GOD heard the cry of the Israelites. GOD called Moses to deliver HIS chosen people from Egyptian slavery. HE called Moses, while he was shepherding sheep on Mount Sinai to be HIS representative for HIM to deliver the Israelites from slavery. Moses grew up in Egypt and in the confines of Pharaoh’s palace. After GOD had delivered the Israelites from Egyptian bondage, HE led them back to the very place that HE had called Moses to go to Egypt as HIS spokesperson.

Now, that part of GOD’S plan had been successfully accomplished. GOD had proven Himself to both Moses and the Israelites. All the Israelites had seen the mighty hand of GOD working in their behalf and brought them safely out of slavery to Mount Sinai (Mount Horeb). GOD’S desire was to build a personal relationship with them. HE had a plan for their existence as HIS special people through whom the Messiah would come to earth, be born and live as 100% human, yet 100% divine. Notice verses 5 and 6. GOD had chosen them. HE stated the criteria for them, if they chose to be HIS people. Moses relayed the words GOD spoken to him to the people and they agreed. Moses returned to GOD confirming that the Israelites agreed to the provisions of HIS covenant.

Once they agreed, GOD gave Moses specific instructions for the people to follow in order to hear HIM and experience HIS presence as Moses had experienced HIM. GOD’S desire was to confirm HIS existence to HIS chosen. GOD still confirms HIS presence to those who accept CHRIST as their Savior by the indwelling Holy Spirit.

GOD placed specific criteria for the people to follow and obey for them to approach HIM because GOD is pure and Holy. The penalty for sin had not been paid in full. The Israelites were being introduced to the one true GOD Who Moses had been talking to and obediently serving in their behalf. GOD’S desire was to confirm HIS reality to the Israelites. HE did not want them to blindly follow HIM without knowing HIS true existence and presence. HE is real but Holy.

Since the passion of JESUS, the barrier of sin has been removed between GOD and mankind for all who place their faith in CHRIST. 

Notice in verse 11. “and be prepared by the third day, for on the third day the Lord will come down on Mount Sinai in the sight of all the people.” WOW!!! GOD’S desire was to come into the presence of the Israelites on the third day. JESUS was resurrected on the third day as proof that HE paid in full the penalty for sin. Paying, in full, the penalty for sin opened the path for CHRIST to come into the hearts and lives of all who will accept HIM by faith. CHRIST willingly came to earth to live as a human, to give HIS life to pay, in full, the penalty for sin and opened the path to GOD. JESUS said it best in John 14:6:

6 Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”

On Mount Sinai, GOD placed boundaries for how close HIS chosen people could get to HIM. The good news, for those who accept CHRIST as their Savior, is that there are no boundaries. The shed blood of the perfect sacrificial Lamb, CHRIST, cleanses all who place their faith in HIM of their past, present and future sins. Remember 2 Corinthians 5:21:

21 He (GOD) made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Hebrews 4:14-16:

14 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens —Jesus the Son of God—let us hold fast to the confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tested in every way as we are, yet without sin. 16 Therefore let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us at the proper time.

CHRIST’S shed blood cleanses those who place their faith in CHRIST such that they can come boldly into the presence of GOD and call HIM Daddy. The Apostle Paul stated in Romans 8:15-16:

15 For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry out, “ • Abba, Father!” 16 The Spirit Himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children,

In Ephesians 1:4:

4 For He chose us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love.

All people have been chosen by GOD to be HIS eternal children but all must choose whether or not to accept HIS gift of CHRIST as their Savior and HIS unlimited Grace. It is GOD’S part to reveal HIS presence to all people in the world. It is the Christian’s opportunity to reach out to all to whom the Holy Spirit leads them with the message GOD places upon their heart. Christians are the agents of GOD as HE gives them opportunity. Will we respond or remain silent?

We may think that we are inadequate to reach out to others. We must keep in our minds that only GOD saves. That is why it is important that Christians respond as the Holy Spirit prompts and gives them opportunity. We may plant a seed, water, encourage, fertilize, minster to needs of all kinds as GOD knows our ability and experience, be a sweet fragrance to those who seek salvation or be a foul smell to others who reject CHRIST* and the list is endless.

*2 Corinthians 2:14-16: 

14 But thanks be to God, who always puts us on display in Christ and through us spreads the aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place. 15 For to God we are the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. 16 To some we are an aroma of death leading to death, but to others, an aroma of life leading to life.

The writer of Psalm 100 expressed his heart knowledge of GOD.

Let’s read Psalm 100:5:

5 For Yahweh is good, and His love is eternal; His faithfulness endures through all generations.

This is a summary of the true nature and character of GOD through the words of the Psalmist. GOD can be trusted. HE is faithful, HE is eternal and HIS love is steadfast, unending and unchanging. HE can be depended upon to keep HIS covenant. JESUS established a new covenant when HE instituted what Christians refer to as The Lord’s Supper as recorded in Luke 22:19-20:

19 And He took bread, gave thanks, broke it, gave it to them, and said, “This is My body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of Me.” 20 In the same way He also took the cup after supper and said, “This cup is the new covenant established by My blood; it is shed for you.

These are wonderful words but how can we know that they are true?

HE gives to all Christians, HIS children, the indwelling Holy Spirit as a guarantee and assurance that they are secure in CHRIST. Let’s review some of the scriptures of GOD’S assurance to those who place their faith in CHRIST:

2 Corinthians 5:5:

5 And the One who prepared us for this very purpose is God, who gave us the Spirit as a down payment.

2 Corinthians 1:22:

22 He has also sealed us and given us the Spirit as a down payment in our hearts.

Ephesians 1:13-14:

13 When you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and when you believed in Him, you were also sealed with the promised Holy Spirit. 14 He is the down payment of our inheritance, for the redemption of the possession, to the praise of His glory.

Ephesians 4:30:

30 And don’t grieve God’s Holy Spirit. You were sealed by Him for the day of •redemption.

Romans 8:16:

16 The Spirit Himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children,

1 John 5:11-14:

11 And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12 The one who has the Son has life. The one who doesn’t have the Son of God does not have life. 13 I have written these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life.

We must keep in mind that we were not made for time but for eternity. All humans will die and enter eternity. Those without CHRIST will be judged but those who have placed their faith in CHRIST will not be judged. JESUS said it best in John 5:21:

24 “I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.

What a heritage Christians have in CHRIST while they live upon earth because CHRIST came to give those who place their faith in HIM an abundant life as stated by the Apostle John in John 10:10:

10 A thief comes only to steal and to kill and to destroy. I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance.

When we consider what GOD has done for all who place their faith in CHRIST and what CHRIST did voluntarily for those who place their faith in HIM, Christians have much to celebrate. When Christians realize, comprehend and understand what CHRIST did for them, it comes naturally for them to respond with praises and expressions of thanksgiving. Happy Thanksgiving, both physically and Spiritually. Blessings!!!