Christian Life - Life Worth Sharing - Romans 1, 9, 10 and 15 - November 28,2010

Bible Study – Christian Life – Life Worth Sharing – November 28, 2010

This is our final lesson in our series on apologetics. It has been an awesome journey. I hope it has been for you as well and that you are better equipped to share your faith in CHRIST.
Our scripture for today’s lesson is Romans 1:14-17; 9:1-3; 10:1, 14-15; 15:17-20.


Think of the most dreaded medical condition a person or child could have and you found the cure. What would you do with that knowledge? Keep it to yourself and watch people suffer? Or would you share the cure with them? The cure is guaranteed to work with only wonderful side effects, it is free and it lasts forever.


Salvation through JESUS CHRIST is the cure for sin and eternal death. It is free and it is eternal. The side effects are eternal security - the presence of GOD in your life through the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT, born into GOD’S family, citizenship in heaven, and as Paul states in Galatians 5:22-23:


22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith,[5] 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law.


The Apostle Paul wrote this letter to the Christians in Rome. He had not been to Rome when he wrote this letter. He was clearing up any concern fellow Christians might have regarding him, since he was a Jew and had been trained as a Pharisee. He wanted the Christians in Rome to know that he had a love and ministry for all people Jew and Gentile but especially the Gentiles. Paul’s life was turned 180 degrees when he encountered JESUS on the road to Damascus. He had an overwhelming love for CHRIST and anyone who was lost to the ravages of sin and death regardless of their race or ethnicity.


Let’s read Romans 1:14-17:
14 I am obligated both to Greeks and barbarians,[10] both to the wise and the foolish. 15 So I am eager to preach the good news to you also who are in Rome.


The Apostle Paul was eager to preach the Gospel of CHRIST to all who would listen regardless of their gender or national origin. CHRIST is for all and those of us who have the light of truth in CHRIST, should have the heart to share the Gospel with anyone in any walk of life. GOD is no respecter of persons and neither should any Christian.


Are we eager to share CHRIST with those we encounter during our walk in life? Do we hide our light of salvation under a canopy of timidity, lack of confidence that CHRIST is our SAVIOR, unbelief, fear, shame, timidity or other excuses for not sharing the gospel? The Apostle Paul shared with fellow Christians who have the right relationship with CHRIST that their desire should be to share the Good News of Salvation through CHRIST with others. His teaching is just a relevant to today’s Christians.


In verse 14, Paul told all that sharing CHRIST was not an option, it was an obligation. I know some Christians who read this may cringe. I remember the time when the thought of witnessing to a person about CHRIST was not on my agenda. I was scared to death at the thought. Confess your fear to GOD and ask HIM to give you the strength to bear witness for HIM when the opportunity arises. GOD equips us and gives us the strength to share HIM with those who are seeking salvation. Trust HIM for the opportunity and the words to say. If GOD provides the opportunity and you feel like you blew it, then great, it worked because Satan is attacking you. Satan does not want you to be a witness for CHRIST. Let GOD lead you to the opportunity and go through the door of opportunity when it opens. The person to whom you are witnessing to may not pray to receive CHRIST at the time you witness to him/her. Just know that GOD used you to plant the seed of salvation, do some watering, a little weeding or fertilizing. Just know that GOD’S Word and GOD Himself works in the hearts of those who are to receive salvation. You may have added a piece of a puzzle which will lead to salvation for that person. Trust GOD for the results.


In our next scripture, Paul reveals his heart for others. Do we have that same heart?


Let’s read Romans 9:1-3 and 10:1:
1 I speak the truth in Christ—I am not lying; my conscience is testifying to me with the Holy Spirit[1]— 2 that I have intense sorrow and continual anguish in my heart. 3 For I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off[2] from the • Messiah for the benefit of my brothers, my countrymen by physical descent.[3]


Romans 10:1:
1 Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God concerning them[1] is for their salvation!


Paul made it clear that he is dead serious in what he has written to the Christians in Rome. If he could give his life for the salvation of his fellow Jews, he would. He was willing to go to Hell for them, if they would accept CHRIST as their SAVIOR.


I have had Jewish friends over the years and they are wonderful, loving people. Some have listened to the plan of salvation through CHRIST. Even though we worship the same GOD, the only way to GOD is through CHRIST. CHRIST is the promised Messiah. I know tradition is a very large stumbling block for many Jews. They fear their family will cast them out if they become Christians. I know family is very precious to them but in light of eternity there is no comparison to serving GOD through CHRIST. HE is a Christian’s High Priest and intercedes for all Christians. HE was the perfect lamb offered for sacrifice for our sins.


My prayer is that you will be among those to whom HE says, “Well done good and faithful servant enter into the Eternal Promised Land.” All Christians are journeying to the Eternal Promised Land, which is heaven.


Let’s read Romans 10:8-13, 14-15 and 15:17-20:
8 On the contrary, what does it say? The message is near you, in your mouth and in your heart.[6] This is the message of faith that we proclaim: 9 if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 With the heart one believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth one confesses, resulting in salvation. 11 Now the Scripture says, No one who believes on Him will be put to shame,[7] 12 for there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, since the same Lord of all is rich to all who call on Him. 13 For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.[8]


As we can see from this scripture, Paul stated how a person can be saved. Someone who has the message of faith has to present it to those who are to make a profession of faith. The key words are faith, belief and confession. Speaking the words given in this scripture is not what produces salvation. It is confessing these from a heart of belief that CHRIST did die on the cross for your sins and GOD raised HIM from the dead as proof that HE is the sinless SON of GOD. GOD counted HIM worthy to give HIS life for sin for all who would believe in HIM. But there are people without CHRIST. Those who have never heard of salvation through CHRIST are lost to the ravages of sin, which is eternal death. This produces a dilemma, which Paul addresses in the next scripture.


Romans 10:14-15:
14 But how can they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how can they believe without hearing about Him? And how can they hear without a preacher? 15 And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: How welcome[9] are the feet of those[10] who announce the gospel of good things![11]


CHRIST gave those who watched HIM ascend into heaven and to all Christians the following commission in Acts 1:7-8:
7 He (CHRIST) said to them, “It is not for you to know times or periods that the Father has set by His own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends[2]of the earth.”


GOD’S plan is to empower all Christians with the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT and to be equipped to be HIS messengers to those without CHRIST (the lost). HE calls each Christian for a specific purpose to minister to others. What do Christians need to do? Seek first a knowing, intimate, trusting relationship with GOD through CHRIST. Allow HIM to lead you, through the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT, in all aspects of your life. It is easy to say and unless you yield your will to HIM, it is impossible to do on your own with joy in your heart.


Romans 15:17-20:
17 Therefore I have reason to boast in Christ Jesus regarding what pertains to God. 18 For I would not dare say anything except what Christ has accomplished through me to make the Gentiles obedient by word and deed, 19 by the power of miraculous signs and wonders, and by the power of God’s Spirit. As a result, I have fully proclaimed the good news about the Messiah from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum.[8] 20 So my aim is to evangelize where Christ has not been named, in order that I will not be building on someone else’s foundation,


Paul was boasting in what CHRIST had done through him. Boasting of what GOD has done is not a sin. The problem arises when Christians take ownership of what GOD is doing through them. Signs and wonders were a means to lead those without CHRIST to HIM. Signs and wonders had a purpose to glorify CHRIST and not to glorify Paul.


Notice that Paul gives CHRIST full credit for the power manifested through him by the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT. As mentioned in previous lessons, gifts of the HOLY SPIRIT are GOD’S power being manifested through Christians to minister to others as GOD directs. With power comes responsibility. That is why a Christian’s relationship with GOD through CHRIST is so vital. CHRIST only did and said what the FATHER told HIM to do and say. Such obedience takes us out of the decision making and keeps us focused upon GOD. It is not us but CHRIST who lives within us.


Paul had a passion to spread the Gospel of CHRIST to those who had never heard it. He had been from Jerusalem all the way to Illyricum, which is in the area of Yugoslavia, sharing the Gospel of CHRIST. Paul was not interested in building on someone else’s ministry. Paul was a church planter and was called to go to those who had never heard of CHRIST. Others were welcome to build upon the foundation he had laid which is CHRIST.


Paul had a heart for the lost and sharing the Good News with those who had never heard of CHRIST and salvation from sin and death. He knew what CHRIST had done and was doing in his life. He knew what CHRIST would do for others who prayed to receive HIM as their SAVIOR.


Do you know CHRIST? If so, do you have a passion to share HIM with others as the HOLY SPIRIT gives you opportunity? Christians are the light of the world and the salt of the earth. Do not hide what you have in CHRIST.


Some may say, “Well I do not know how to share CHRIST with others.”


Here is what is called the Roman road to salvation:
Romans 3:23 – 23 For all have sinned and fall short of the[20] glory of God. (Everyone has sinned.)
Romans 6:23 – 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (The penalty for our sin is death.)
Romans 5:8 – 8 But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us! (JESUS CHRIST died for sin.)
Romans 10:8-10 – 8 On the contrary, what does it say? The message is near you, in your mouth and in your heart.[6] This is the message of faith that we proclaim: 9 if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 With the heart one believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth one confesses, resulting in salvation. (To be forgiven for our sin, we must believe and confess that JESUS is LORD. Salvation comes through JESUS CHRIST.)


The bottom line, salvation is not following a specific outline of words, it is the attitude of the heart. I heard a person give his testimony who had been fighting CHRIST for many years who simply said “LORD, I give up!” CHRIST came into his life in an overwhelming way. That was his way of saying, LORD I know I am a sinner and I have fought YOU every step of the way. I believe that YOU died for me on the cross for my sins and were resurrected as proof that YOU are GOD’S SON. I am tired of resisting, so I give up and give YOU my life as it is. It is all about the attitude of the heart and not saying the exact words. The Roman road to salvation is a guide and has been used to lead many to CHRIST.


If you have never asked CHRIST to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life, now is the right moment to do that. Blessings as you make this most important decision in your life. The benefits are eternal but begin the instant you ask CHRIST into your life. GOD guarantees it by the promised indwelling of the HOLY SPIRIT.

Christian Life - Life Together - Acts 2 and Hebrews 10 - November 21, 2010

Bible Study – Christian Life – Life Together – November 21, 2010

This is lesson three (3) in our series of study entitled “The Case for the Christian Life.”

Our scripture is Acts 2:41-47; Hebrews 10:23-25.

Our lesson involves the gathering of Christians together for the purpose of ministering one to another and to others. Today, we call it going to church. In the formative days of Christianity, Christians gathered in synagogues and homes. Animosity developed between the Jews who rejected Christianity and as a result the Christians met in homes.

In the early days of Christianity, Christians were looking for the immediate return of CHRIST. New Testament scripture supports this. We are still waiting and when we read scripture regarding the days leading up to the second coming of CHRIST, it seems imminent to us. The point being whether CHRIST comes in the next second or in the next thousand years, every person is but one heartbeat away from eternity. CHRIST commissioned every Christian to go into all the world and present the Gospel. Every Christian, in essence, is a missionary because he/she is the light of the world and the salt of the earth.

So why do Christians need to gather together? In the early days, they shared provisions, prayed, encouraged each other and shared Spiritual insight to name a few things. The gathering of Christians has evolved into the brick/stone, mortar and wood structures we have today. The purpose of gathering is to be fed Spiritually, to fellowship with each other, reach the needy, both Spiritual needy and physically needy. This includes Christians as well as non-Christians.

Many Christians look at the church as a place where sinners go to get saved, which is okay. But the intent of church is that Christians are fed Spiritual food to energize them to go into the world they live in each day and lead others to CHRIST and minister to both fellow Christians and non-Christians. The church is a place where Christians go to learn more about CHRIST, get the Spiritual help and encouragement they need and to serve. The church provides the structure to train, equip and send Christians out into the world – local, state, nation and the world to tell others about CHRIST and make disciples. Many Christians are attending Bible studies weekly but the question is, “Are they putting into action what they are learning?” Most Christians are like sponges, they can soak up so much but then they need to be squeezed to get them to put into action what they are being taught. Mission trips - local, state, national and foreign as well as serving in the church can offer the opportunity to put into action what GOD, through the HOLY SPIRIT, is leading a Christian to do. Christians need to make certain that the LORD is leading them to a ministry or to serve.

The church staff is called to provide the structure to educate, train, equip, encourage and minister to the body of Christians to live each day as CHRIST leads them. We could go on and on about the purpose and role of the church but let’s move on. Basically, the church is not a showcase for the saints but a hospital for the suffering. Christians suffer along with non-Christians. The gifts of the HOLY SPIRIT are given to minister as GOD directs.


We are in the final study of apologetics and let’s consider some issues you may encounter when you speak with others about being a Christian. I have Catholic friends who were devastated when the church said that CHRIST had brothers and sisters. To me, the fact that HE did have brothers and sisters reveals that HE knew family life. The scripture reveals the attitude of HIS brothers toward HIM before and after HIS death and resurrection, which is significant. In HIS early ministry, HIS family thought HE had lost it mentally but how they saw HIM after the resurrection is vital.


Let’s examine the attitude of HIS brothers before and after HIS crucifixion. Before HIS crucifixion, they thought HE was doing what HE did for attention. But after HIS crucifixion and resurrection, their attitude changed as we will see in the following scriptures.


JESUS’ Family:
JESUS was the son born of the Virgin Mary. Mary had other children as stated in Mark 3:31-32 - 31 Then His mother and His brothers came, and standing outside, they sent [word]* to Him and called Him. 32 A crowd was sitting around Him and told Him, “Look, Your mother, Your brothers, and Your sisters[12] are outside asking for You.”


In Mark 6:3 - 3 "Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary, and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And are not His sisters here with us?" And they were offended at Him.


John 7:1-5: Before JESUS’ Crucifixion.


The Unbelief of Jesus’ Brothers

1 After this, Jesus traveled in Galilee, since He did not want to travel in Judea because the • Jews were trying to kill Him. 2 The Jewish Festival of Tabernacles[1] [2] was near, 3 so His brothers said to Him, “Leave here and go to Judea so Your disciples can see Your works that You are doing. 4 For no one does anything in secret while he’s seeking public recognition. If You do these things, show Yourself to the world.” 5 (For not even His brothers believed in Him.)


Acts 1:1-14: After JESUS’ Crucifixion and Resurrection.


Prologue (Dr. Luke wrote the Book of Luke and then followed it with the Book of Acts. He was commissioned by Theophilus to give an account of the earthly ministry of JESUS which produced the Book of Luke. Then Theophilus commissioned an account of what happened after JESUS ascended into heaven to sit at the right hand of GOD, HIS FATHER. This resulted in the Book of Acts. We learn from Acts that JESUS was on earth in HIS resurrected body for 40 days before HE ascended into heaven.)


1 I wrote the first narrative, Theophilus, about all that Jesus began to do and teach 2 until the day He was taken up, after He had given orders through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom He had chosen. 3 After He had suffered, He also presented Himself alive to them by many convincing proofs, appearing to them during 40 days and speaking about the kingdom of God.


The Holy Spirit Promised


4 While He was together with them,[1] He commanded them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for the Father’s promise. “This,” [He said, “is what]* you heard from Me; 5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” 6 So when they had come together, they asked Him, “Lord, at this time are You restoring the kingdom to Israel?” 7 He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or periods that the Father has set by His own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends[2]of the earth.”


The Ascension


9 After He had said this, He was taken up as they were watching, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. 10 While He was going, they were gazing into heaven, and suddenly two men in white clothes stood by them. 11 They said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking up into heaven? This Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come in the same way that you have seen Him going into heaven.”


United in Prayer (Look at the list of those gathered, praying and waiting on the arrival of the promised HOLY SPIRIT, it was none other than HIS brothers. HIS brothers went from ridicule to believers after HIS resurrection.)


12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olive Grove, which is near Jerusalem—a Sabbath day’s journey away. 13 When they arrived, they went to the room upstairs where they were staying: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas the son of James. 14 All these were continually united in prayer,[3] along with the women, including Mary[4] the mother of Jesus, and His brothers.


Acts 2:1-4: Pentecost


1 When the day of Pentecost had arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like that of a violent rushing wind came from heaven, and it filled the whole house where they were staying. 3 And tongues, like flames of fire that were divided, appeared to them and rested on each one of them. 4 Then they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in different languages, as the Spirit gave them ability for speech.

This is not a study of tongues but I will touch on this briefly. GOD in HIS wisdom allowed this event to be very graphic for the purpose of getting the attention of those who had come to Jerusalem to worship. It was time for the Gospel of CHRIST to be shared with the world. Jerusalem was teaming with local people and those from far away who had come to worship fifty (50) days after Passover/Feast of Unleavened Bread. This was the perfect time for the HOLY SPIRIT to come to earth because Pentecost, also known as the Feast of Weeks, was a time when a variety of people were invited to Jerusalem. They included servants, sons and daughters, Levites, the fatherless, the widow and the stranger (Gentile). The feast was also known as the Feast of Harvest and Pentecost. GOD is amazing. HE knew that those usually excluded from Jerusalem were included. It was the perfect time for the HOLY SPIRIT to indwell each new convert to Christianity and carry the message of CHRIST where ever they went. This was the launch of Christianity empowered by the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT.

Let’s read Acts 2:41-42: A Generous and Growing Church


41 So those who accepted his (Peter) message were baptized, and that day about 3,000 people were added to them. 42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayers.

The Apostle Peter was preaching to all who would listen. Isn’t it exciting that the very disciple who had denied CHRIST before HIS crucifixion was now preaching the gospel of CHRIST and about 3,000 people became Christians that day. The new converts were eager to learn all about being a follower of CHRIST. At the instant of their salvation, they were filled with the HOLY SPIRIT. The HOLY SPIRIT indwells each Christian to reveal truth, empower, enlighten, instruct, train, ensure, encourage and caution.


Let’s read Acts 2:43-47:


43 Then fear (awe) came over everyone, and many wonders and signs were being performed through the apostles. 44 Now all the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 So they sold their possessions and property and distributed the proceeds to all, as anyone had a need.[14] 46 And every day they devoted themselves [to meeting]* together in the • temple complex, and broke bread from house to house. They ate their food with gladness and simplicity (sincerity) of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And every day the Lord added to them[15] those who were being saved.


These new Christians were in awe of experiencing this new found faith in CHRIST. They wanted to learn all they could from those who had walked with JESUS during HIS earthly ministry. They were endowed with the HOLY SPIRIT and witnessed the power of the HOLY SPIRIT.


Many today believe that the empowering of the HOLY SPIRIT was only for that time period. I whole heartedly disagree. The HOLY SPIRIT is just as powerful in the lives of Christians today as the day HE arrived at Pentecost. The instant a person asks CHRIST to forgive him/her of his/her sins and to come into his/her life, he/she is filled with the HOLY SPIRIT. As Christians grow and mature Spiritually, I believe the power of the HOLY SPIRIT is manifested more. It does not mean a Christian has to be old in years but just Spiritually mature enough to allow GOD to manifest the gifts of the SPIRIT through him/her.


It is vital that Christians devote themselves to knowing CHRIST and then as HE thinks we are capable of handling the power of the HOLY SPIRIT then HE may choose to give us a gift or two. As Christians, we can get the big head very easily. In some churches we may hear, “I got the gift of ____!!! What is your gift?” All Christians have at least one gift. Salvation is a gift. Paul tells us that we should desire a gift but it is up to GOD to grant the gift. I am convinced that when the right moment comes and we need a certain gift, GOD will give it to us.


Christians should focus their attention on learning of CHRIST, getting to really know HIM, building an intimate relationship with HIM and obediently serving HIM. It will amaze you what GOD will do in your life. The point is when you are in the right relationship with HIM, you are satisfied to serve HIM as HE leads you because when you are in the right relationship with HIM, you are in the center of HIS will.


The new Christians at Pentecost were endowed with the presence of the HOLY SPIRIT. Do you recall the moment you accepted CHRIST as your SAVIOR? It was likely an awesome moment in your life. Not all Christians have this type of experience. Your experience may be like I heard a pastor say, “It may be like the rising of the sun in the morning. You know that light has dawned and it gets brighter with each passing moment but when did the sun actually rise?” The key point is that the sun rose.


CHRIST in you is just the beginning of an awesome journey.


Let’s read Hebrews 10:19-25: Exhortations to Godliness


19 Therefore, brothers, since we have boldness to enter the sanctuary through the blood of Jesus, 20 by the new and living way that He has inaugurated for us, through the curtain (that is, His flesh); 21 and since we have a great high priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, our hearts sprinkled [clean]* from an evil conscience and our bodies washed in pure water. 23 Let us hold on to the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. 24 And let us be concerned about one another in order to promote love and good works, 25 not staying away from our meetings, as some habitually do, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.

The writer of Hebrews was reminding Christians of what CHRIST did for them when HE gave HIS life for them upon the cross. As a result of HIS passion Christians can:
- Approach GOD boldly because their hearts have been cleansed by the shed blood of CHRIST and because they have been cleansed by the ever flowing pure, living water of the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT.

- Approach GOD as one of HIS children.

- Approach GOD directly, no longer having to go through an earthly priest.

- As a result of what CHRIST has done for them, they should love, encourage and reach out to each other. Christians should not isolate themselves from fellow Christians because it is important for Christians to come together for the common benefit that mutual support and fellowship produces. Separate a coal or ember from the fire and it soon goes out.

CHRIST gave HIS life by shedding HIS blood to pay the penalty for sin. GOD required the shedding of blood for the remission of sins. All who believe that HE died for them and ask HIM to forgive them for their sin are forgiven of their past, present and future sins. They are born into the family of GOD through the miracle of rebirth and nothing will ever change that.


Every human is the result of the union of a sperm and egg. A person can leave home and change his/her name but one fact remains, he/she will always be the son/daughter of their parents. Nothing that he/she will ever do will change that union. Some Christians who have been born into the family of GOD will make it into heaven by the skin of their teeth or “like an escape through fire” as described in 1 Corinthians 3:9-15, verse 15:

9 For we are God’s co-workers. You are God’s field, God’s building. 10 According to God’s grace that was given to me, as a skilled master builder I have laid a foundation, and another builds on it. But each one must be careful how he builds on it, 11 because no one can lay any other foundation than what has been laid—that is, Jesus Christ. 12 If anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay, or straw, 13 each one’s work will become obvious, for the day[4] will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire; the fire will test the quality of each one’s work. 14 If anyone’s work that he has built survives, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone’s work is burned up, it will be lost, but he will be saved; yet it will be like an escape through fire.[5]

Paul is speaking of eternal rewards. How do you build with Gold, Silver and Precious Stones that will survive the test of fire? Commit your life to CHRIST and obediently serve HIM as HE leads and directs your life through the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT. Build a loving, intimate relationship with HIM.

CHRIST’S passion makes HIM our high priest. HE intercedes for us before GOD. Satan accuses Christians for their sins but CHRIST intervenes in our behalf. CHRIST shed blood covers all our sin. GOD will deal with HIS children as needed. Christians have a high priest that has been tempted in all ways, yet HE remained sinless but HE knows what it is like to be tempted. We have a high priest that understands what we are facing. Again, this is not a get-out-of-jail free card because we will have to face the consequences of our sin. As a child of GOD, our sin will not send us to Hell. As Christians, we have the privilege of having direct access to GOD as stated in the following scripture:

Hebrew 4:14:


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.[8] 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.

Romans 8:15:


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!”

Abba is like calling GOD daddy. GOD’S children are not to be afraid of HIM. HE is to be approached with reverence but with full confidence such that we can call HIM “daddy”. CHRIST in us makes that possible. 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 (Christians) might become the righteousness of God in Him.


CHRIST’S passion made all who believe in HIM righteous before GOD. That is awesome and it is free when we accept CHRIST as our SAVIOR. Plus, Christians receive eternal life, which cost CHRIST HIS life but it is free to those who believe in HIM.


Our lesson is on life together as brothers and sisters in CHRIST. GOD is our FATHER and CHRIST is our brother. If you have not been in fellowship with fellow Christians, then pray and ask CHRIST to lead you to the right church for you. Attend and listen and evaluate what you hear and see. Go to another one if you have any concerns about what you are hearing or seeing.


When you remove yourself from the coals of the Spiritual fire, it is easy to grow cold. Rekindle the fires that once burned in your heart so warmly. As a child of GOD, GOD has never left you, you have left HIM. So return, HE will welcome you with open arms. Blessings!!!

Christian Life - Life in Light of Eternity - Luke 12 and Philippians 1 - November 14, 2010

Bible Study – Christian Life – Life in Light of Eternity – November 14, 2010.

This is lesson two (2) in our series “The Case for the Christian Life.”
Our scripture is Luke 12:13-21; Philippians 1:21-26.


In last week’s study we discussed, “Why the Christian life is better.” This week we add another reason to why the Christian life is better, eternity. Examine all the religions of the world and see if any can guarantee heaven. Does any other religion have a SAVIOR who has conquered death like JESUS did and was raised from the dead by GOD to prove that HE was GOD’S ONLY SON? Has any other religious leader died for another person’s sin? No!


Christians make a religion out of Christianity but true Christianity is CHRIST in you. Christian religions have many different ways they worship GOD/CHRIST. Christians must keep in mind that all the ritual does not make a person a Christian. It is CHRIST in you and then he/she worships to grow and mature Spiritually.


CHRIST gave HIS life on the cross by shedding HIS blood to pay the price which GOD required to pay for sin. CHRIST became sin for all who would believe in HIM. CHRIST redeemed all who would believe in HIM from the consequences of sin, which is death. HIS resurrection from the dead is proof that GOD accepted HIM as the perfect sacrifice for sin. HIS resurrection is proof and the guarantee that all who believe in HIM will have eternal life. JESUS said it best in John 3:15-16:
15 so that everyone who believes in Him (JESUS) will[9]have eternal life. 16 “For God loved the world in this way: He gave His • One and Only Son (JESUS), so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.[10]


Do you mean simply saying, “Dear JESUS, I believe that YOU died upon the cross for my sins and that GOD raised YOU from the dead. I ask YOU to forgive me of all my sins and to come into my life right now”, that makes me a Christian? Yes, if you meant it. GOD looks upon the heart and you know your heart. You may not fully comprehend what CHRIST did for you on the cross but if you will place your faith in HIM and ask HIM to reveal truth to you, HE will.


Salvation is just the beginning of a Christian’s journey with CHRIST. It is a Spiritual growth and maturing process with the help of the HOLY SPIRIT. The HOLY SPIRIT will reveal truth to you as you read the Bible, GOD’S Word and as you pray seeking to obediently serve HIM. Obedience builds your faith in HIM. As the lyrics of the song express, “The longer I serve HIM the sweeter HE grows.” Place your hand in the hand of the Master and let HIM lead, guide, teach and reveal mighty Spiritual truth to you.


JESUS tells us in John 5:24:
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.

As a Christian, when you die your born-again spirit goes immediately to be with CHRIST.


Eternity is hard for us mortals to comprehend. But this we know. We will all die one day. Eternity is just one heartbeat away.


Those who have followed these lessons know that I had an experience many years ago. It was not an out-of-the-body experience. I was driving down the Interstate from Charlotte, NC to Spartanburg, SC when all of a sudden I saw a picture/ vision high in the sky to my right accompanied by a loud booming voice like I have never heard before or since. The voice said, “Mrs. Green has just passed away but she is walking with the LORD.” A joy swept over me and I began to sing. The voice said again, “I told you she is fine, she is walking with the LORD, you pray for the family.” I prayed for the family and looked at my watch. It was 3:45 PM.


Mrs. Green was the mother of a lady who I worked with and we had been praying for her because she had cancer. I had never met her mother. When I left to go on a trip, Mrs. Green was taking treatment for cancer but she was at home. As already mentioned, I looked at my watch, shortly after this event, and the time was 3:45 PM. I got to the plant about 4:05 PM.


I asked about Mrs. Green and was told that she had gotten worse and was taken to the hospital that morning but she was doing fine. I told them what had happened to me driving down the Interstate. I was told that if she had died they would know about it because her daughter had called after lunch to say that her mother was resting. About 4:30 PM or so, Mrs. Green’s pastor’s wife called the plant to tell us the Mrs. Green had died. The doctor had pronounced her dead at 4:10 PM. I think about that now and laugh. Her body was pronounced dead at 4:10 PM but she was walking with the LORD at 3:45 PM.


I never saw the face of tall person, THE LORD, walking with Mrs. Green. I only knew it was “THE LORD” because the voice identified HIM. The sound was 360 degrees surround sound not coming through my ears but like a dome was placed over my head. In the picture/vision, I saw the path they were walking on. I could see the top of Mrs. Green’s head and the top of HIS left shoulder angling under HIS chin. She was dressed in a white robe/garment and HE was dressed in a green robe/garment. If I had ever imagined CHRIST, I would have imagined HIM in a white robe. Both had arms, legs, and a body. She had a head, face, long flowing brunette hair and appeared like a normal human being. They were not disembodied spirits. They were walking side by side. I saw Mrs. Green for the first time in the casket. What I saw in the vision was not the same as her earth suit in the casket. In the picture/vision she appeared to be a 20 something year old young woman with long flowing brunette hair striking about her waist. They were both walking down a path, about to make a turn to the right. The path curved to the right and was lined with green foliage. The path appeared to be a reddish dirt path. All this happened in a matter of seconds.


Such an event has never happened to me again. In fact this was before my mother passed into the arms of the LORD and I was disappointed that I did not have a similar experience. But she just slipped away from this earth into heaven.


Mrs. Green was a strong Christian lady and so was my mother. This experience let me know, as confirmed by the Apostle Paul, to be absent from the body is to be present with the LORD. A Christian goes immediately to be with the LORD. This experience does not make me special, nor am I trying to elevate myself to the status of Paul. It makes me more accountable. I can only share what happened to me with you.


Keep in mind that we were not made for time but for eternity. We dwell on obtaining stuff in this life but the real joy and peace is obediently serving CHRIST as directed by the HOLY SPIRIT. GOD has a plan for each of us which can include a career and getting stuff. Christians need to keep their hearts focused upon CHRIST and on building and maintaining the right relationship with HIM. GOD calls people to serve HIM in a large variety of careers. HE calls Christians to go to all the world and share the Good News. Your world is different than my world. We all come into contact with various people each day and if we know the truth, then GOD will give us an opportunity to share it.


We saw in last week’s study that JESUS spoke of HIS peace and HIS joy. HE knew where HE came from, HE knew HIS FATHER, HE knew HE had been completely obedient to HIS FATHER, HE knew HE was free of any sin; HE knew HE was on target to fulfill HIS mission and HE knew where HE was going. When you know that, you will know the joy and peace of CHRIST in you. It is a Spiritual growth and maturing process. We are easily distracted by the things the world has to offer and follow the desires of our flesh. But real treasure is obediently serving GOD through an intimate, loving relationship with CHRIST. This treasure is stored in heaven and is safe. People in JESUS’ day had the same desire for stuff that we have today. Let’s explore.


Let’s read Luke 12:13-15: The Parable of the Rich Fool


13 Someone from the crowd said to Him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” 14 “Friend,”[4] He said to him, “who appointed Me a judge or arbitrator over you?” 15 He then told them, “Watch out and be on guard against all greed because one’s life is not in the abundance of his possessions.”

In JESUS’ day, many thought that having possessions was proof that a person was in favor with GOD. The more stuff a person had, the more GOD loved him. Stuff made them appear righteous before GOD, which was a very wrong conclusion.

JESUS was teaching and someone asked JESUS to tell his brother to share his inheritance with him. According to Jewish law when the father died his estate was distributed to his sons. The eldest son usually received a double portion because he had the responsibility of his mother and any unmarried sisters. We do not know the circumstances of this case. The person asking the question was more concerned about getting stuff than what JESUS was teaching. He had missed the point of JESUS’ message – Beware of religious hypocrisy - Fear GOD – Acknowledging CHRIST. JESUS was teaching about things of eternal value and this person was focused on the here and now.

JESUS knew this person’s heart and HE went to the heart of the matter. Greed can cost you your soul. HE follows this statement with a parable.

Let’s read Luke 12:16-21:
16 Then He told them a parable: “A rich man’s land was very productive. 17 He thought to himself, ‘What should I do, since I don’t have anywhere to store my crops? 18 I will do this,’ he said. ‘I’ll tear down my barns and build bigger ones and store all my grain and my goods there. 19 Then I’ll say to myself, “You[5]have many goods stored up for many years. Take it easy; eat, drink, and enjoy yourself.” ’ 20 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your • life is demanded of you. And the things you have prepared—whose will they be?’ 21 “That’s how it is with the one who stores up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.”


The parable was for all but it was also for the person who asked the question. We as humans focus on getting more and more but the most important thing is to learn more about CHRIST. Christians can pursue careers, accumulate wealth and stuff while they obediently serve GOD. It is a matter of where your heart is. There is nothing wrong with making money and accumulating things as long as you keep your mind and heart focused upon JESUS. It is the Love of money that is the root of all evil. It is a matter of the heart. However, JESUS cautions us about wealth in Matthew 19:23-24 - 23 Then Jesus said to His disciples, “• I assure you: It will be hard for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven! 24 Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.”


Self-sufficiency is a great stumbling block to obediently serving GOD. GOD desires for Christians to depend upon HIM.


Let’s read Philippians 1:21-26: Living Is Christ
21 For me, living is Christ and dying is gain. 22 Now if I live on in the flesh, this means fruitful work for me; and I don’t know which one I should choose. 23 I am pressured by both. I have the desire to depart and be with Christ—which is far better— 24 but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for you. 25 Since I am persuaded of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your advancement and joy in the faith, 26 so that, because of me, your confidence may grow in Christ Jesus when I come to you again.

The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the church at Philippi, shared with the Christians there that to live meant that he would continue to serve CHRIST and he would continue to invest in fellow Christians to encourage them to be all that CHRIST desired them to be. Paul wanted to be fruitful by sharing the Good News of CHRIST as long as he was upon earth. Yet, he knew what awaited him in heaven and he considered death as gain over life on earth. If he had a choice between life and death, he did not know how he would choose because both choices meant unspeakable joy. Let’s explore why Paul had this attitude.

It is believed that Paul died when he was stoned and he told the story recorded in Acts 14:19-20:
19 Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium, and when they had won over the crowds and stoned Paul, they dragged him out of the city, thinking he was dead. 20 After the disciples surrounded him, he got up and went into the town. The next day he left with Barnabas for Derbe.


Paul told the story about a man taken up to the third heaven 2 Corinthians 12:1-10: Sufficient Grace
1 It is necessary to boast; it is not helpful, but I will move on to visions and revelations of the Lord. 2 I know a man in Christ who was caught up into the third heaven 14 years ago. Whether he was in the body or out of the body, I don’t know; God knows. 3 I know that this man—whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows— 4 was caught up into paradise. He heard inexpressible words, which a man is not allowed to speak. 5 I will boast about this person, but not about myself, except of my weaknesses. 6 For if I want to boast, I will not be a fool, because I will be telling the truth. But I will spare you, so that no one can credit me with something beyond what he sees in me or hears from me, 7 especially because of the extraordinary revelations. Therefore, so that I would not exalt myself, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger[1] of Satan to torment me so I would not exalt myself. 8 Concerning this, I pleaded with the Lord three times to take it away from me. 9 But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power[2]is perfected in weakness.” Therefore, I will most gladly boast all the more about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may reside in me. 10 So because of Christ, I am pleased in weaknesses, in insults, in catastrophes, in persecutions, and in pressures. For when I am weak, then I am strong.


Many believe that Paul was telling of his visit to heaven when he was stoned. The first heaven is where the birds and clouds are. The second heaven is where the moon, stars, plants and galaxies are. The third heaven is where GOD is. Paul knew what awaited him in heaven and he was ready to go whenever GOD was finished with him on earth. Paul knew that eternity was certain and he was ready to go when his work on earth was complete. Paul had the right relationship with CHRIST.


Eternity is just a breath away. Are you ready to meet JESUS?

The Apostle Paul told the Christians in Corinth why they should remain steadfast in the faith. First Corinthians 15:50-58: Victorious Resurrection
50 Brothers, I tell you this: flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, and corruption cannot inherit incorruption. 51 Listen! I am telling you a • mystery: We will not all fall asleep, but we will all be changed, 52 in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we will be changed. 53 Because this corruptible must be clothed with incorruptibility, and this mortal must be clothed with immortality. 54 Now when this corruptible is clothed with incorruptibility, and this mortal is clothed with immortality, then the saying that is written will take place: Death has been swallowed up in victory.[19]55 O Death, where is your victory? O Death, where is your sting?[20]56 Now the sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ! 58 Therefore, my dear brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the Lord’s work, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.


It is hard for people to consider eternity when they are so connected to this world. We think here and now. In light of eternity, this brief life upon earth is our opportunity to obediently serve GOD and to set our sights upon eternal life with HIM in heaven. I can hear some say, “Boring! I want to be with my friends.” Just keep in mind that in 1 Corinthians 2:6-10 - 6 However, among the mature we do speak a wisdom, but not a wisdom of this age, or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. 7 On the contrary, we speak God’s hidden wisdom in a • mystery, which God predestined before the ages for our glory. 8 None of the rulers of this age knew it, for if they had known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.[3] 9 But as it is written: What no eye has seen and no ear has heard, and what has never come into a man’s heart, is what God has prepared for those who love Him.[4]10 Now God has revealed them to us by the Spirit, for the Spirit searches everything, even the deep things of God.


When our body is on earth but our heart is in heaven, then our obedience to our LORD is not compromised by the things on earth. But this level of commitment requires the right relationship with CHRIST. Remember GOD’S goal for every Christian is for him or her to be made in the image of CHRIST. That process is called sanctification. It requires Christians to yield their lives to CHRIST. Some Christians may say as simple as, “LORD here I am as I am, take me and make me into the Christian you want me to be.” It is impossible for anyone to know fully what road he/she will travel as he/she obediently followers CHRIST. Just know that HE will never leave you or forsake you. HE bought you with HIS life. Let HIM help you to grow and mature Spiritually. The rewards are eternal and you have seen it, heard it or even thought about what GOD has planned for you, if you obediently serve HIM.

Christian Life - WHy the Christian Life is Better - John 14 and 15 - November 7, 2010

Bible Study – Christian Life – Why the Christian Life is Better – November 7, 2010.

This is lesson one (1) in our final series on apologetics. This series is entitled “The Case for Christian Life.”
Our scripture is John 14:15-18, 27-31a and John 15:11-16.


In our studies, so far, we have considered “The Case for GOD”, The Case for JESUS” and we end with “The Case for Christian Life.” Being a Christian is all about relationship with CHRIST. When I speak of relationship, the degree of a Christian’s relationship with CHRIST can and will depend upon his/her degree of commitment to HIM. The depth of a person’s relationship with CHRIST depends upon his/her willingness to rely upon HIM, trust HIM, yield control of his/her life to HIM, learn from HIM, put into practice what HE asks him/her to do and the list goes on.


When CHRIST was born on earth, HE was 100% human and at the same time HE was 100% Divine. HE was completely obedient to HIS FATHER’S commands. HE did not make any decisions outside the will of GOD. HIS disciples saw HIM as both human and divine. They asked HIM to show them GOD, the FATHER. CHRIST told them, if you want to see GOD then look at ME. The way to GOD is through CHRIST. HE said 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.


Some may ask, “Why do I need to go through CHRIST to get to GOD?” The answer is simple. GOD is HOLY and no human is or will ever be pure enough to approach GOD. The blood of CHRIST paid the price for sin for all who believe in HIM. Because HE shed HIS blood for the remission of sins, all people have the opportunity to be born into the family of GOD through the miracle of rebirth. But each person has to accept by faith what CHRIST did for him/her. Faith in CHRIST imputes righteousness to all who believe and confess CHRIST as their SAVIOR. A born-again believer is a Christian who has been made righteous by the shed blood of CHRIST. As a result he/she can approach GOD freely 24/7 with any problem, question, need, concern, comfort or praise just to name a few. GOD becomes a Christian’s FATHER through the miracle of rebirth. JESUS is a Christian’s brother WHO gave HIS life for him/her and as a result, became his/her SAVIOR.


CHRIST in you makes you a Christian. It is not the church, temple or synagogue you attend. CHRIST is the promised Messiah.


In the selected scripture, CHRIST is preparing HIS disciples for HIS death and resurrection which will take place in the next few days. HIS disciples knew HE had special powers and was sent from GOD. However, they thought HE was going to establish an earthly kingdom and was going to deliver them from Roman rule.


Let’s read John 14:15-18:
15 “If you love Me, you will keep[9]My commandments.[10] 16 And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another • Counselor to be with you forever. 17 He is the Spirit of truth. The world is unable to receive Him because it doesn’t see Him or know Him. But you do know Him, because He remains with you and will be[11]in you. 18 I will not leave you as orphans; I am coming to you.


JESUS was preparing HIS disciples for the most difficult time of their lives. JESUS knew that HE had a relationship with HIS disciples. They were a tight knit group who had experienced many different things. HE also knew that they did not fully comprehend what HIS mission was all about. JESUS, in essence, was telling them that “If you love ME, hold tight to what I have taught you because a very dark time is coming. You will be challenged to abandon everything I have taught you. But if you really love ME, hold tight to the truth because you know that I AM truth.” HE knew they would be scattered and confused when HE gave up HIS earthly life on the cross. HE knew that it was vital that they have something to insure them that their faith in HIM was not in vain.


HE knew that HIS disciples would look upon HIS death as the end. Christ knew that HIS death would be the beginning of the day of redemption for all who would believe. HE also knew that HIS disciples, with the exception of Judas, would one day completely understand and comprehend the purpose of HIS death. HE knew that GOD would raise HIM from the dead, which would be the proof of HIS purpose and the guarantee to all who would believe in HIM.


It is no different for Christians today. It takes Christians time to process salvation and understanding their relationship with CHRIST. We must grow and mature Spiritually. We have dark times in our lives as well. We must learn to practice in the dark what we learn in the light. When dark times come in our lives, we must hang on to truth. We may have to recall the moment of our salvation and remember that GOD is our refuge and strength in the time of trouble. HE stands ready to come to our aid when we call upon HIM. HE will never leave us or forsake us. Christians belong to HIM because HE bought them with a price and HE did not give HIS life for them to dump them.


Notice that JESUS said “I will ask the FATHER, and HE will give you another person, like ME, to be with you forever.” The “you” applies to all who will believe in HIM until HE returns to earth after HIS ascension. HE was speaking of the HOLY SPIRIT, WHO indwells every true believer at the instant he/she believes in CHRIST. The HOLY SPIRIT was not just for the disciples but for all believers.


Notice HE said, “The HOLY SPIRIT is the Spirit of Truth.” The world cannot receive HIM because sin blinds those in the world to HIS presence. Those in the world who live according to the flesh are blinded to the presence of Spiritual truth.


CHRIST told HIS disciples that they know the Spirit of Truth because HE, the very embodiment of truth, had been along side of them through their journey with HIM. The passion of CHRIST made ready for the human body to house the HOLY SPIRIT for all who ask CHRIST to forgive them of their sins and believe that HE gave HIS life for them upon the cross. What does 2 Corinthians 5:21 tell us?


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.


That is why we need CHRIST. Faith in HIM imputes righteousness to all who believe in HIM. Therefore, all true believers in HIM receive the HOLY SPIRIT which indwells him/her forever. The HOLY SPIRIT is the down payment or security deposit GOD invests in every believer as his/her guarantee that his/her faith in HIM is not in vain. Truth lives within every Christian and is the best warranty ever written. It is GOD’S guarantee that every believer will join HIM in heaven once this earthly life is over. Do you have this assurance? If not, why not? Ask CHRIST to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life right now. Now thank HIM for coming in and go tell someone what you have just done. Some may look at you strangely but those who know the truth will rejoice with you.


So what about this guarantee? Here is some scripture:


Second Corinthians 5:5 - 5 And the One who prepared us for this very thing is God, who gave us the Spirit as a down payment.


Second Corinthians 1:21-22 - 21 Now the One who confirms us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, is God; 22 He has also sealed us and given us the Spirit as a down payment in our hearts.


Ephesians 1:13-14 - 13 In Him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation—in Him when you believed—were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit. 14 He is the down payment[12] of our inheritance, for the redemption of the possession,[13] to the praise of His glory.


Ephesians 4:30 - 30 And don’t grieve God’s Holy Spirit, who sealed you[17] for the day of redemption.


Romans 8:16 - 16 The Spirit Himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children,


The HOLY SPIRIT confirms the fact that we are the children of GOD. WOW!!! It does not get any better than knowing that as a believer, you are the child of the GOD FOREVER!!! REJOICE!!!


Let’s read John 14:27-31a:
27 “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Your heart must not be troubled or fearful. 28 You have heard Me tell you, ‘I am going away and I am coming to you.’ If you loved Me, you would have rejoiced that I am going to the Father, because the Father is greater than I. 29 I have told you now before it happens so that when it does happen you may believe. 30 I will not talk with you much longer, because the ruler of the world[12]is coming. He has no power over Me.[13] 31 On the contrary, [I am going away]* [14]so that the world may know that I love the Father. Just as the Father commanded Me, so I do.


JESUS continued to teach and prepare HIS disciples. What is the peace that CHRIST will leave with HIS disciples? CHRIST knew the truth. HE knew WHO HE was and HIS ultimate destiny. HE was secure in knowing the FATHER. When Christians know the truth and secure in their faith in CHRIST they know heart confirmed peace.


JESUS knew that HIS disciples would have difficulty processing all that was about to happen. Their world will be turned upside down Spiritually. But HE knew that it would be turned right-side up after HIS resurrection and ascension because HE would send the HOLY SPIRIT to enlighten them of all truth. The indwelling HOLY SPIRIT is the abiding presence of GOD. The HOLY SPIRIT enlightens, teaches, reveals, confirms, seals, empowers and confirms every true believer’s eternal security.


GOD allows us to go through difficult times in order for us to process, comprehend and understand the connection between physical occurrences and their relationship to the Spiritual awaking. Spirituality is personal. You cannot ride on my experience and neither can I ride on yours. I can learn from you and you can learn from me. But each of us will stand before GOD and have to answer to HIM for our faithfulness and obedience.


Keep in mind that we were not made for time but for eternity.


Also, keep in mind that before GOD made the world HE knew us. Ephesians 1:4: for He chose[3] us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight.[4] In love[5]


Let’s read John 15:11-16:
11 “I have spoken these things to you so that My joy may be in you and your joy may be complete. 12 This is My command: love one another as I have loved you. 13 No one has greater love than this, that someone would lay down his life for his friends. 14 You are My friends if you do what I command you. 15 I do not call you slaves anymore, because a slave doesn’t know what his master[2]is doing. I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything I have heard from My Father. 16 You did not choose Me, but I chose you. I appointed you that you should go out and produce fruit and that your fruit should remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in My name, He will give you.


CHRIST knew the joy of obediently serving the FATHER and HE wanted HIS disciples then and now to know this same joy. It is unspeakable joy. There is no greater joy than knowing that you are obediently serving the living GOD completely as HE desires for you to serve. It is not a service out of coercion but out of love, respect and a heart filled with the knowledge of HIS love for you. HE is worthy of everything you do as HE directs you. It is not the doing for the sake of doing but the doing because it serves HIS plan and purpose. You are part of HIS grand plan. That is exciting and joy to the max.


CHRIST told HIS disciples that HE gave HIS life for all who would believe upon HIM. This is the same message to people today. Notice HE used the word “friends.” GOD does not make us robots but gives us the freewill to choose. CHRIST paid the price for sin just for you and for me. It is up to each person to accept or reject HIM. When we choose HIM, HE chooses us to bear spiritual fruit.


We are chosen to bear spiritual fruit. Fruit has seeds and fruit is designed to bear more fruit. HE wants Christians to be obedient followers. Christians must keep in mind that they must remain grafted to the vine so they will be healthy branches. JESUS spoke to HIS disciples in John 15:1-8: The Vine and the Branches


1 “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vineyard keeper. 2 Every branch in Me that does not produce fruit He removes, and He prunes every branch that produces fruit so that it will produce more fruit. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in Me, and I in you. Just as a branch is unable to produce fruit by itself unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in Me. 5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without Me. 6 If anyone does not remain in Me, he is thrown aside like a branch and he withers. They gather them, throw them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you want and it will be done for you. 8 My Father is glorified by this: that you produce much fruit and prove to be[1]My disciples.


The title of our lesson is “Why the Christian Life is Better.” Why is it better? It is because we are grafted into the vine. Apart from the vine, CHRIST, we can do nothing. Christians who believe in CHRIST have the confirmation and security that their faith in CHRIST is solid. It is not false hope but an assurance that the passion of CHRIST has delivered them from their past, present and future sins and eternal death. The Christian life is better because every Christian has the presence of GOD in his/her life as evidenced by the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT.


The HOLY SPIRIT is the abiding presence of GOD in us. It doesn’t get better than that!!!