GRACE AND THE TRUTH - DAILY INSPIRATION

[nChrist]

~Daily Inspirational~ ABIDE ABOVE AUGUST 17, 2007


ABIDE ABOVE
By Miles Stanford




"And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus" (Eph. 2:6).

The Cross has separated us from the power of sin (Rom. 6:11), the old man (Rom. 6:6), the world (Gal. 6:14), the law (Rom. 7:4), and the devil (Heb. 2:14). The Spirit has joined us to our risen Lord, and we are "hidden with Christ in God" (Col. 3:3) . We are free --- to abide above; free --- to fellowship with our Father in glory.

"The lack I find in souls is, that while they know that their sins are forgiven, they do not know their new place. What place do you have? Is it earth or heaven? It could not possibly be earth, for the Lord Jesus was rejected from the earth. It has a great moral effect upon a person to be able to say, 'I have a place in heaven; I have no property on earth at all, it is all in heaven.'

" 'It is the Lord's property I have on earth, but in heaven I have my own.' In the garden of Eden, man lost his place; the question to him then is, First --- Where art thou? then, What hast thou done? Every believer seeks to be clear as to the latter, but very few are clear about the former." --- J.B.S.

"Many do not go beyond Christ's resurrection; they do not extend to His ascension. They do not know Him in glory. They are occupied with Him in relation to their own side. He was at my side and glorified God there both in His walk here and in His death; but He is now at His own side, and it is there I intelligently realize the vastness of my life, for He is my life."

"My mind must rise above what I am to what God is; then it is that one is formed by the revelation of what God is. To this we are called." -- J.N.D.

"Faithful is He that calleth you, who also will do it" (I Thess. 5:24).

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

If this devotion has been a blessing to you, please share it with others. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.

Ephesians 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ.

Click Below For FREE Email Subscription:
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
___________________________________

[nChrist]

~Daily Inspirational~ THE "WILFUL SIN" OF HEBREWS 10:26 AUGUST 18, 2007


THE "WILFUL SIN" OF HEBREWS 10:26
by Russel S. Miller




It is asserted that the "wilful sin", here, does not apply to this dispensation because, as members of the Body of Christ, God has already given us eternal security in Christ as Paul declares in his epistle to the Romans:

"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?... NAY, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that [nothing] shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Rom.8:35-39).

Please note that the Hebrews also have "eternal salvation" (5:9), "eternal redemption" (9:12), and "eternal inheritance" (9:15). So today, those who trust in His finished work of redemption, whether Hebrews or Gentiles, have "eternal salvation", "eternal redemption", and "eternal inheritance":

"FOR EVEN CHRIST OUR PASSOVER IS SACRIFICED FOR US" (ICor.5:7).

"Neither by the blood of goats and calves, BUT BY HIS OWN BLOOD HE ENTERED IN ONCE INTO THE HOLY PLACE, having obtained eternal redemption for us" (Heb.9:12).

Now, on the other hand, there is "no more sacrifice for sins". Those who reject His all-sufficient sacrifice for sins, whether Hebrews or Gentiles, reject "eternal salvation", "eternal redemption", and "eternal inheritance", and do so, "wilfully", as those who rejected Christ on the day of Pentecost. There is no other sacrifice in the sight of God. If you miss Christ, the only thing left is "eternal judgment" (Heb.6:2), because God has made no other provision for sin:

"For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries" (Heb.10:26,27).

Therefore I implore you, do not tread "under foot the Son of God", nor count "the blood of the covenant" an unholy thing, and do not despise "the Spirit of grace" (Ver.29).

"VENGEANCE IS MINE; I WILL REPAY, SAITH THE LORD" (Romans 12:19).

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

If this devotion has been a blessing to you, please share it with others. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.

Ephesians 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ.

Click Below For FREE Email Subscription:
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
___________________________________

[nChrist]

~Daily Inspirational~ WRONG SOURCE AUGUST 19, 2007


WRONG SOURCE
By Miles Stanford


"Rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh" (Phil. 3:3).

There are two ways in which God reveals to us the true condition of the natural man. The first is via the Word: "In me (that is, in my flesh) dwelleth no good thing" (Rom. 7:18 ). The second is via experience: years of struggle with the constant sinfulness and failure of that old nature. If we were more willing to face up to the incorrigibility of the Adamic life within, it might not take us so long to be freed from its domination.

"It is quite possible for everyone of us to have a perfectly good conscience. A happy state to be in! Have you a good conscience? Are you under accusation, under condemnation? Are you fretting and worrying about the badness of your own heart? That means that you have not the answer of a good conscience to God. What is the matter? You are still looking for something from nature, from the old man. You had better give it up, as that is the only way out; repudiate it.

"Tell yourself and tell the accuser once for all that in you, that is, in your flesh, dwelleth no good thing, and you never expect to find anything. The enemy knows it, and yet he is trying to get you on an impossible guest for something he knows you will never find, and that is how he worries you. Years of it! Then why not come onto the Lord's ground and out-maneuver him? Let us settle it that we can never expect to find any good in our old nature. All our good is in another, even our Lord Jesus. It is the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus (Rom. 8:2)." ---T.AS.

"Stand fast, therefore, in the liberty with which Christ hath made us free" (Gal. 5:1).

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

If this devotion has been a blessing to you, please share it with others. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.

Ephesians 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ.

Click Below For FREE Email Subscription:
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
___________________________________

[nChrist]

THE GREATEST     AUGUST  21, 2007


THE GREATEST
By Miles Stanford



"We love Him, because He first loved us" (1 John 4:19).

We first come to know something of the Lord Jesus' love by what He did for us; but that is only the basis for coming to know His love in what He is to us. The first is known at the Cross, the latter is entered into through personal fellowship with the risen Lord.

"There are three steps in appreciation of His love for us. First, I learn that He loves me so much that He saved me. He is our treasure; 'My Beloved is mine' (SS 6:3). The second step of affection is the consciousness that He loves me so much that He has a right to me. He would have me for Himself. 'I am my Beloved's' (SS 6:3).

"The third step is the consciousness that He loves me so much that He wants my company. 'His desire is toward me' (SS 7:10). Love's delight is found in the company of its object. May we know in a deeper way, and in a fuller measure, the sweetness of personal intimacy with 'the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me' (Gal. 2:20).

"Much ministry is lost upon us as to any practical result, because we are not prepared to be detached from things here, so as to be simply here for Christ. And the preparation for this is to come personally under the influence of the blessed attractiveness of the Lord Jesus. When we sit under His shadow with great delight, everything else becomes so small, and loses its hold upon our hearts."--- C.A.C.

"But we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord" (II Cor. 3:18 ).

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

If this devotion has been a blessing to you, please share it with others. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.

Ephesians 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ.

Click Below For FREE Email Subscription:
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
___________________________________

[nChrist]

ASLEEP IN A STORM       AUGUST  22, 2007


ASLEEP IN A STORM
by C. R. Stam




What a disappointing scene! A terrifying storm, souls in danger of death, but Jonah, the man of God, fast asleep.

Sailors are not soon frightened in a storm, but this time the fury of the gale was so great that “the ship was like to be broken” and even the sailors were driven to their knees “and cried every man unto his god” (Jonah 1:4,5).

Can it be that Jonah, the only man aboard who knew the true God, was sleeping? Sleeping while souls were perishing? This was the shameful truth, and not one of us would blame the terrified captain for rudely awakening him and crying: “What meanest thou, O sleeper? Arise, call upon thy God!” (Verse 6).

But let us not be too ready to condemn Jonah, for we may be more guilty than he. Surely the world today is passing through a fearful storm and souls all about us are in peril of their lives. If they do not accept God’s way of salvation; if they do not trust in Christ, they will perish. And what are we doing about it? Are we pleading for them in prayer? Are we doing what we can to reach them for Christ? Or are we fast asleep?

“What meanest thou O sleeper? Arise, call upon thy God!” And when you have cried to God in behalf of your unsaved relatives, friends, and business associates, He will send you to witness to them of Christ and His love. Not until you have talked to God about them will you be ready to talk to them about God.

Politically, morally, spiritually, the night is dark, the storm is raging and souls are perishing, but “God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts” (II Cor.4:6). “…We are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep as do others” (IThess. 5:5,6).

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

If this devotion has been a blessing to you, please share it with others. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.

Ephesians 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ.

Click Below For FREE Email Subscription:
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
___________________________________

[nChrist]

TRUE LIBERTY     AUGUST  23, 2007


TRUE LIBERTY
by C. R. Stam




As true Americans celebrate their liberty, true Christians should rejoice in the even greater liberty which they have in Christ.

Our Lord said: "Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" and "If the Son, therefore, shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed" (John 8:32,36). Likewise St. Paul declares that believers in Christ have been made "free from sin" and have become "servants to God," who deals with us in grace (Rom. 6:22).

It is strange that so many sincere religious people actually wish to be in bondage to the Mosaic Law, which can only judge and condemn them for their sins. Peter called the law: "a yoke... which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear" (Acts 15:10). Paul called it "the handwriting of decrees, that was against us, which was contrary to us" (Col. 2:14). He called it "the ministration of death" and "the ministration of condemnation" (II Cor. 3:7,9).

He challenged those who "desired" to be under the law:

"Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law?" (Gal. 4:21).

"For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written. Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law, to do them" (Gal. 3:10).

Thank God, "Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us" (Gal. 3:13). Man always responds better to grace than to law. The law was "added because of transgressions" (Gal. 3:19). "By the law is the knowledge of sin" (Rom. 3:20). But Christ died for our sins and now true believers serve God from gratitude and love. Hence Rom. 6:14 says: "Sin shall not have dominion over you, for ye are not under the law but under grace." Since Christ has redeemed us from the law (Gal. 4:5) God says to every true believer:

"Stand fast, therefore, in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage" (Gal. 5:1).

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

If this devotion has been a blessing to you, please share it with others. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.

Ephesians 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ.

Click Below For FREE Email Subscription:
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
___________________________________

[nChrist]

FULNESS OF LIFE    AUGUST  24, 2007


FULNESS OF LIFE
By Miles Stanford




"To know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God" (Eph. 3:19).

Our Father's fulness of supply infinitely exceeds the sum of our needs. Positionally it is so: "For in Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in Him." Conditionally it is so: "He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?" (Col. 2:9,10; Rom. 8.32).

"As to the Gospel and the work of the Lord Jesus, I do not find that it is adequately apprehended that the benefit conferred by the Father is far beyond the need of the sinner. You cannot measure the benefit by the need. You may ask, 'Does it not cover the need?' It does; but you get no clue to the benefit from the measure of the need. You cannot find it in your own thoughts or expectations; it cannot be found anywhere save in our Father's heart. It is 'above all that we ask or think.....'

"How little, indeed, do we enter into the fulness of the benefits of the Gospel! The elder brother in Luke 15 did not object to his brother being forgiven, but it was unwelcome to him to see the wonderful excess of grace bestowed on him by the Father. 'Thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.' Many have the sense of forgiveness without the knowledge of His abundance."----J.B.S.

"We shall never be able to glorify God, if we only take what we need."

"Now unto Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory" (Eph. 3:20, 21).

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

If this devotion has been a blessing to you, please share it with others. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.

Ephesians 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ.

Click Below For FREE Email Subscription:
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
___________________________________

[nChrist]

SPIRIT-MOTIVATED SURRENDER     AUGUST  25, 2007


SPIRIT-MOTIVATED SURRENDER
By Miles Stanford




"Keep on seeking the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God" (Col. 3:1, Wms.).

When the Spirit of Christ has the hungry heart prepared, there will be surrender. No struggle; no questions. "We reason when we ought to repose; we doubt when we ought to depend. Confidence in our Father's love is the true corrective in all things." "For I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him" (2 Tim. 1:12).

"If a believer surrenders or lays aside anything without an adequate divine motive, he will either secretly hanker after it, and probably long to return to it, or he will take credit to himself for having given it up, and will thus reveal self-righteousness and spiritual pride.

"A certain school of religious teachers make much of 'surrender' as the way to attain blessing, but it ends in self-sufficiency, because the only motive that is presented for it is the acquisition of a better spiritual state, or power for service, or something of that kind. A divine motive and attraction is needed if souls are to be drawn into the race and prepared to surrender in a truly spiritual way,  and this divine motive and attraction is our risen Lord in Glory." --- C.A.C.

"Communion with the Lord Jesus requires our coming to Him in the Word. Meditating upon His person and His work requires the prayerful study of His Word. Many fail to abide in Him because they habitually fast instead of feast." ---J.H.T.

"Lord, Thou wilt ordain peace for us: for Thou also hast wrought all our works in us. O Lord our God, other lords beside Thee have had dominion over us; but by Thee only will we make mention of Thy name" (lsa. 26:12,13).

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

If this devotion has been a blessing to you, please share it with others. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.

Ephesians 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ.

Click Below For FREE Email Subscription:
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
___________________________________

[nChrist]

The Teaching of Self-Esteem     AUGUST  26, 2007


The Teaching of Self-Esteem
by Paul M. Sadler,



Scripture Reading:

"Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince [refute] the gainsayers." -- Titus 1:9

Satan never rests in his insatiable desire to corrupt the Word of God. A case in point is the present-day teaching of self-love, self-esteem and self-worth. The influence of this unsound doctrine has nearly permeated every strata of Christendom, including the Grace Movement. Like the beat of a drum, this theme is heard almost constantly from the pulpits of America and frequently appears on the pages of Christian literature. Beware when you hear or read: "It is important to feel good about yourself," "Learn to love yourself," "Probe your innermost self to understand why you think and feel as you do," "God sent His son to die for you because you are of great value."

On the surface these phrases may seem commendable, but in reality they are diametrically opposed to the Scriptures. The above has been weighed in the balance and found to be wanting. For example: "The heart [innermost self]is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?" (Jer. 17:9). Paul concurred when he said, "For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh, [old nature or self]) dwelleth no good thing" (Rom. 7:18 ).

The old man (self) is at enmity against God. He hates God and the things of God and left to himself he will not seek God. The Scriptures, from beginning to end, speak with a unified voice that the old nature is rotten to the core (See Rom. 3:9-18 ).

Consequently, our old man (self) has been crucified with Christ. Paul made reference to this when he wrote to the Galatians, "I am crucified with Christ [i.e. his old man]: nevertheless I live [Paul's new nature]; yet NOT I [self], but Christ liveth in me." We are to put off the old nature and put on the new, which is created in holiness and righteousness (Eph. 4:22-24). It is futile to improve one's self-image, especially since God abhors any attempt to do so. Rather, we are to conform ourselves to the image of His dear Son. Thus, those of the household of faith are to live accordingly:

"Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let us esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus" (Phil. 2:3-5).

Self takes great pleasure in acclaim, indulgence, approval and praise. It glories in all these things. But are we not robbing God when self is esteemed more highly than His glory?

"What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit which is in you, which ye have of God, AND YE ARE NOT YOUR OWN? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's" (I Cor. 6:19,20).

Shall we permit the "love of one's self" doctrine to overshadow the love of God in Christ Jesus? God forbid! May God help us to stand against this insidious teaching that essentially robs God of the glory that is rightfully due Him.

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

If this devotion has been a blessing to you, please share it with others. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.

Ephesians 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ.

Click Below For FREE Email Subscription:
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
___________________________________

[nChrist]

"GLORY"    AUGUST  27, 2007


"GLORY"



People today have lost hope. They are anxious about the past; they are anxious about the present; and they are anxious about the future. Fear grips their hearts and minds as they witness the government crumbling, the job market disappearing, and the family unit being torn to pieces. Disillusioned young people, in total rebellion, turn to drugs and alcohol. They join gangs, drop out of school, and commit horrible crimes. Without hope and without Christ, they tread down dead-end streets. Walking according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air (Satan), they fulfill the desires of the flesh and the mind (Ephesians 2:1-3).

The believer in Jesus Christ, however, has HOPE. He has a future. He has something to look forward to. We must learn that hope in the scriptures does not involve any element of uncertainty. Scriptural hope means to expect with ABSOLUTE ASSURANCE all God has purposed for the believer. The Apostle Paul states in Romans 5:2 that the child of God is to " .. rejoice in HOPE of the glory of God."

The logical question to raise at this point is, What is the HOPE OF THE GLORY OF GOD? Why should we rejoice?

Hebrews 1:2-3 tells us God has appointed the Lord Jesus Christ heir of all things. He is the heir of all that God owns. ALL THINGS were created by Christ and for Christ (Colossians 1:16) for "of Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To whom be GLORY forever" (Romans 11:36). Everything that exists will find its true meaning only when it comes under the final control of Jesus Christ. What a day of GLORY that will be!

One day soon, the GLORIOUS Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout and with the voice of the archangel. The trumpet of God will sound. The dead in Christ will rise first; then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air; and so shall we ever be with the Lord (I Thessalonians 4:14-17). In a moment, in a twinkling of an eye, God will change our natural body to a spiritual body. Gone forever are corruption, dishonor, and weakness; here to stay are incorruption, GLORY and power (I Cor. 15:42-44. " ... we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto His GLORIOUS body, according to the working whereby HE IS ABLE even to subdue all things unto Himself" (Philippians 3:20-21). Conformed to the image of Christ -- Oh, that will be GLORY (Romans 8:29-30)!

When Christ, who is our life, appears, we shall appear WITH HIM in GLORY (Colossians 3:1-4). We will be manifested as children of God, heirs, heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ. We will be GLORIFIED together with Him -- Oh, that will be GLORY (Romans 8:17)! The troubles, trials, and tears we may experience in this life are nothing compared to the GLORY that will be revealed in us at the Lord's coming (Romans 8:18 ).

Two thousand years ago, the Lord of GLORY, Creator and Heir of all things, was born of a virgin and laid in a cattle stall because there was no room for Him in the inn. He laid aside His GLORY and became poor to make us rich -- one day we will be GLORIFIED. At Calvary's cross, He bore the penalty for our sin, was buried, and arose triumphantly the third day. He laid down His life FOR us. He gives His life TO us. He lives His Life THROUGH us.

Can you look back in faith and see that God's grace has saved you? Can you look forward in Hope and see GLORY awaiting you? Can you look at your life today and know Christ, the HOPE OF GLORY, lives within you (Colossians 1:27)? "The life which I NOW live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me" Galatians 2:20.

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

If this devotion has been a blessing to you, please share it with others. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.

Ephesians 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ.

Click Below For FREE Email Subscription:
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
___________________________________

[nChrist]

RECONCILIATION    AUGUST  28, 2007


RECONCILIATION
by John Baker,



To understand reconciliation it helps to understand its antonym, alienation. Alienation means to be outside - isolated -separated - estranged. We must accept the fact of alienation in order to receive the great truth of reconciliation.

The unbeliever is in a threefold state of alienation:

* From the commonwealth of Israel. Ephesians 2:11-12
* From the life of God. Ephesians 4:17-18
* From God Himself. Colossians 1:21

In Christ we have been reconciled to God, to Israel, and have eternal life. Reconcile means reunite; reconnect; restore; or change completely the relationship.

Following are two non-doctrinal examples of reconciliation:

I Corinthians 7:10,11 - "And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife." In this case to be reconciled means to be reunited.

Mathew 5:23,24 - "Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift." Here the exhortation to change enmity for friendship or a strained relationship for reconciliation. The idea is to change the relationship completely. To be reconciled is to be reconnected; to be brought into a friendly relationship and back on speaking terms.

How does this apply to the alienation of Jew and Gentile? (Ephesians 2:11,12) The barrier between Jew and Gentile has been broken down and both have been reconciled unto God in one body. This was accomplished at the cross where Christ slew the enmity (see Ephesians 2:13-16). There is a new relationship in the body of Christ between Jew and Gentile. There is a new relationship between both Jew and Gentile and God. Both Jew and Gentile have been reconciled by the cross and brought into a new relationship with God described as the one new man; the body of Christ. The previous priorities by the Jew have been put aside. The Gentiles were alienated and separated, but now, they have been brought nigh through the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. "And came and preached peace to you which were afar off (Gentiles), and to them that are nigh (Jews), For through Him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father" (Ephesians 2:17,18 ).

"To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them, and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation" (II Corinthians 5:19). Through the death of Christ God changed completely the position of mankind (the world) in its relationship to Himself. The Bible never states that God is reconciled. God's righteousness never changes. God is immutable - never changing. Through the finished work of Christ on the cross, God sees the world reconciled. He is not changed or reconciled Himself.

Some Scriptures that talk about reconciliation are:

Romans 11:15 - The casting aside of Israel is the reconciling of the world.

Colossians 1:20 - all things are reconciled.

II Corinthians 5:19 - whole world reconciled.

From these references we conclude that reconciliation does not necessarily mean salvation. Reconciliation does mean that the world has been brought into a position or relationship to God whereby He can deal with the world in grace instead of wrath. In simple terms, reconciliation means man has been made saveable. This was all made possible by the finished work of the Lord Jesus Christ. The whole world was not saved, nor is the whole world going to be saved. At the cross of Calvary God made reconciliation; this is an accomplished fact. Now, because of this accomplished fact, God can deal with the world in His grace. In II Corinthians 5:19 it says that God is not imputing our sins, but instead He is offering peace. Because of the cross, and what was accomplished there, God is able to deal with the world in His grace. The world has been reconciled through the blood of His cross. Man has been made saveable. The world is so altered, so changed in its position in respect to the holy judgments of God that it is rendered saveable.

II Corinthians 5:20 exhorts believers "Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God." As Christ's messengers we have been committed the word ( or message) of reconciliation. We are to go forth in His behalf, beseeching others to appropriate this reconciliation as their own. Having been reconciled - be ye reconciled is not double talk. Man still has to accept God's grace and reconciliation. This is where faith comes into the picture. We are to put our trust in His finished work and appropriate the truth of reconciliation as our very own. God is beseeching the world to receive the reconciliation which has been made. God is offering peace and reconciliation and we are to be His messengers.

One of the obstacles between man and God is the law. This is God's standard and it condemns all, for none can meet God's standard. The Lord Jesus Christ took away this obstacle at the cross and the world has been reconciled. The demands and condemnation of the law have been satisfied, the guilt has been paid for, and the heart can be changed through the power of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is all possible because God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself.

Glory be to God for fulfilling His promises in raising Jesus Christ from the dead. Nevertheless, does His resurrection have any meaning to you? Has it had any impact in your life? Have you experienced the work of salvation that Jesus Christ perfected in His resurrection?

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

If this devotion has been a blessing to you, please share it with others. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.

Ephesians 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ.

Click Below For FREE Email Subscription:
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
___________________________________

[nChrist]

CHRIST IS RICH   AUGUST  29, 2007


CHRIST IS RICH
Colossians 1:13-18
by James R. Gray




Paul in Colossians gives a great description of who Jesus Christ is to us as believers. Paul describes Christ as RICH:

Redeemer.
 
This describes Christ in relation to us. He is our redeemer. The work of redemption is to buy back that which is lost. Christ redeems us from the market place of sin. This did not come cheap. I Peter 1:18-19 tells us we have been redeemed with the blood of Christ. Silver or gold could not do it. Some has said that, "money is the universal passport for everywhere except Heaven, and the universal provider for everything except happiness." We have been purchased with His own blood (Acts 20:28 ).

Image of God.

This describes Christ in relation to God the Father. He is the image of the invisible God. This reminds us that God is spirit and cannot be seen (John 1:18 ). The word "image" is the Greek word eikon, which means "precise copy, reproduction." Jesus is the image of God. He declared, "He that hath seen Me hath seen the father" (John 14:9).

Creator.
 
This speaks of His relation to creation. He is the "firstborn" of creation. This does not mean He was first created being. It has the idea of primacy more than priority. He has the place of prestige and honor. A place of honor deserved because He is the creator. For "by Him" were all things created. He is both the agent of creation and the purpose of creation, for all things were created "for Him."

Head.
 
This describes Christ in relationship to the Church, the body of Christ. Christ as head of the body implies two things: (1) Submission. The body is to be submissive to the head. It is the head that controls, rules, and guides the body. (2) Unity. The head and the body are not two, but a unit. The head and the body are one. However, it is the head that is to have the preeminence. (Col. 1: 18 ). May He have first place in our life.

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

If this devotion has been a blessing to you, please share it with others. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.

Ephesians 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ.

Click Below For FREE Email Subscription:
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
___________________________________

[nChrist]

PAUL'S PHILOSOPHY OF MINISTRY    AUGUST  30, 2007


PAUL'S PHILOSOPHY OF MINISTRY
Part 1 of  2
TITUS 1:1-3
by James R. Gray



Paul's letter to Titus is not just a personal letter, but a pastoral letter. It was written to a close associate of the Apostle. Titus was a Greek (Galatians 2:3), who experienced on the job training with Paul and Barnabas (II Corinthians 8:23). One of like spirit or attitude (2 Corinthians 12:18 ). He was now the personal envoy of the Apostle to Crete (Titus 1:5) to edify the saints, and organize the local church.

The Apostle Paul opens the Epistle with the standard form of greeting, giving the author, the recipients, and the blessing (1:1-4). In doing so, however, Paul gives one of his longest greetings (65 words, surpassed only by the greetings in Galatians and Romans). In this greeting, Paul gives his philosophy of ministry.

THE ATTITUDE OF MINISTRY (Titus 1:1).

Paul refers to himself as "a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ." This designates his two-fold position. But these titles also denote not only Paul's position, but his attitude of ministry.

* HUMILITY.

Paul was a "servant of God." The word servant is the Greek word doulos, meaning bond-servant or slave. Wuest tells us the word "refers to one whose will is swallowed up in the will of another; ... to one who serves another to the disregard of his own interests" (The Pastoral Epistles, 181). The prepositional phrase "of God" designates who's will swallows up Paul. Paul was what he was, not by his own will, nor the will of man, but the will of God (Galatians 1:1). God is his master. He is a servant of God! A title held by Moses (Joshua 1:2), Joshua (24:29), and the prophets (Jeremiah 7:25, Amos 3:7).

This title reflects an attitude of ministry. Ministry is that of service to our master. Christ himself displayed this attitude. He took upon himself "the form of a bond-servant" (Philippians 2:7). Paul implores us to have the same attitude or mind (Philippians 2:5). It is the attitude of humility.

A philosophy of ministry begins with the attitude of humility. Paul served God "with all humility of mind" (Acts 20:19). The Greek word is tapeinophrosune. He calls upon us to "walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness" or humility of mind (Ephesians 4:1-2). We are to put it on as God's elect (Colossians 3:12). True ministry begins with the attitude of humility.

* AUTHORITY.

Paul was not only a servant, but an "apostle". The word means one sent forth, commissioned to do a task. It has the idea of one sent with authority to command. Buhner notes that the word "denotes commissioning and authorization from God" (Exegetical Dictionary of the NT, 1:142). Paul was commissioned and given the authority to be the apostle to the Gentiles (Romans 11:13). As such, Paul was willing to stand in such authority, even in opposition of other apostles (Galatians 2:11 ff). This authority came not within his own pride or ego, but because of the position conferred upon him by the Lord Jesus Christ. He spoke from the authority of Christ that was granted him to do the task for which He was called.

A philosophy of ministry must include the concept of authority. No matter what ministry God gives to believers, with each ministry comes authority to serve in that area. The degree of authority may vary depending upon the ministry, but it is there never-the-Iess. Where ever God sends or calls, he grants authority, as well as the ability to carry out that commission.

Notice the order: it is humility then authority. To often we want to reverse this order. To minister primarily out of authority over humility leads to pride. Pride is deadly in ministry, perverting it to selfishness. Authority in ministry should always be exercised in the spirit of, and controlled by, humility.

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

If this devotion has been a blessing to you, please share it with others. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.

Ephesians 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ.

Click Below For FREE Email Subscription:
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
___________________________________

[nChrist]

PAUL'S PHILOSOPHY OF MINISTRY Part 2   AUGUST  31, 2007


PAUL'S PHILOSOPHY OF MINISTRY
Part 2 of  2
TITUS 1:1-3
by James R. Gray




*THE AIM OF MINISTRY __ (Titus 1:1bl:

After giving his position, Paul states that this was "according to the faith of God's elect." What does that mean? It seems to indicate that Paul's position is dependent upon the faith of God's people, as to be regulated by it. We know from Scripture that is not the case (see Galatians 1:1,11-12, 15-17). Paul's position came directly from the Lord, and was not of man, nor dependent upon man.

The word translated "according" is the Greek word kata, and found in the accusative case. This is taken by Bible students in one of two ways: First, many take it to mean the standard of Paul's ministry, and is reflected in the translation of the KJV. This view takes it to mean "in accord with or in harmony with the faith which God's elect possess" (Homer Kent Jr, THE PASTORAL EPISTLES, 216). While it is true this may be the natural meaning, they recognized that it can be taken in the sense of purpose or goal. However, their objection to it is on the basis that this preposition is used four time here, and that this "rendering cannot be given to all four occurrences" (D. Edmond Hiebert, "Titus," THE EXPOSITOR'S BIBLE COMMENTARY, 11:426).

The problem is that this view must see the faith of the elect as some form of regulation. It may be denied by some (Hiebert, 11:426), but it is clearly the case. Kent openly confirms it. He writes:

Paul's ministry could be measured by this yardstick. Believers are responsible to test the spirits (1 John 4:1). Paul could be tested by comparing his preaching and teaching with the doctrine which the believers held (p. 216).

Second is the view that takes the preposition in the sense of purpose of goal. That the preposition kata "expresses the aim of Paul's apostleship, and not the standard" (A.T. Robertson, WORD PICTURES, 4:597). Those who hold this view would translate the preposition as "for" as does the NASV, or "in the interest of" as Hendriksen does (NTC: I-II TIMOTHY AND TITUS, 340). We prefer this view because it is exegetical sound, and fits well the context of the Epistle. And it does away with the problem of regulation based upon the faith of God's people.

This being the case, Paul's philosophy of ministry sees the aim of ministry as:

* FAITH.

Faith here is not objective in the sense of "the faith" (doctrine, or body of truth). There is no article in the Greek. It is the personal faith which starts with salvation and grows with edification. The aim of service or ministry is to promote and further the salvation and edification of God's people (Romans 1:5). This is done both by evangelism and edification.

* KNOWLEDGE OF THE TRUTH.

The word "acknowledging" is the Greek word epignosis, meaning a full or thorough knowledge. The aim of ministry is to bring people to fully acknowledge the truth. Again this is done both by salvation and edification. To acknowledge this truth "which is after godliness." Salvation and edification is to lead to godliness. Ministry is not to center only upon mind (intellectualism), but truth that changes lives. To conform and transform us to the image of Christ. Ministry which professes to convey truth, but does not promote godliness is a artificial ministry. A true philosophy of ministry must have as it's aim: faith, knowledge, and godliness.

* MOTIVATION OF MINISTRY (Titus 1:2-3):

"In the hope of eternal life." The connective "in" is the Greek word epi. It means "resting upon" or "on the basis of." To what does it refer? Some take it to refer back to Paul's apostleship. While this is true, it seems to limiting. It is better to take it as modifying the entire subject of the first verse. The attitude and aim of ministry rests upon hope, the hope of eternal life. "The faith and the knowledge spoken of have as their basis of action, or energy, the hope of eternal life" (THE EXPOSITOR'S GREEK TESTAMENT, 4:185).

Paul certainly sees hope as a vital and important aspect of his philosophy of ministry. It is the motivating basis of ministry. Paul says he toils and strives in ministry "because we have fixed our hope on the living God" (1 Timothy 4:10, NASV; also see 2 Timothy 1:12). He uses the hope set before us as a motivating factor in our lives as well (1 Corinthians 15:58, 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, 2:12, 1 Timothy 4:7-8 ).

It must be noted that Paul is not saying that we minister in order to obtain the hope of eternal life. We are saved by grace apart from works (Ephesians 2:8-9). Both eternal life and hope are our possession here and now (Ephesians 4:4, Colossians 1:5, 27, Titus 3:7). However, this hope will not be fully realized until eternity. Hope is a present possession waiting for future realization. Thus, we minister because of the possession of the hope of eternal life. This hope energizes us to service.

This hope, Paul goes on to say, was promised, manifested, and committed (Titus 1:3). It was promised by a God who cannot lie. Manifested in the preaching of the Word. And committed to him by God's command.

Paul's philosophy of ministry is clearly revealed in this greeting to Titus. However, it is important to realize that this philosophy of ministry is not simply for the "professional" servant (pastors, evangelist, missionaries, etc). It is one that should be a part of everyone's philosophy of ministry. No matter how or where you serve God, you should exhibit the attitude of humility with authority, aim at evangelism and edification, and be motivated by the hope that is within you.

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

If this devotion has been a blessing to you, please share it with others. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.

Ephesians 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ.

Click Below For FREE Email Subscription:
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
___________________________________

[nChrist]

PRESENT GRACE.  SEPTEMBER  1, 2007


PRESENT GRACE




PRESENT GRACE IS ROOTED IN THE SOVEREIGN LOVE OF GOD THE FATHER.

The story is told about the man who lost his dog. He put an ad in the paper and offered a reward. The advertisement read "Lost dog mixed breed, limps due to an arthritic condition, blind in one eye, large patches of fur missing, doesn't hear well, and answers to the name LUCKY." That dog was lucky because somebody loved him.

We are more than lucky - we are blessed beyond words - and that because of GRACE. God knew we were helpless and hopeless. "BUT AFTER THAT, the kindness and LOVE OF GOD OUR SAVIOUR toward man appeared" (v. 4). God in kindness and love sent His Son into the world. He was born of a virgin. Thirty-three years later, He died on a cross. Romans 5:8 states "God commended His LOVE toward us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died FOR US." On the cross, He bore OUR sins in HIS OWN BODY (I Peter 2:24). God does not love us because we are valuable - we are sinful, helpless, and hopeless. We are valuable because God loves us. Through simple faith in His Finished Work, we become His children, heirs of God, and joint-heirs with CHRIST (Romans 8:17). "Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins" I John 1:4.

Ephesians 2:4 states "But God, who is rich in mercy, for His GREAT LOVE wherewith HE LOVED US - even when we were dead in sins hath quickened us together with Christ (by GRACE ye are saved). The Word plainly states we were DEAD - dead towards God. A dead person is unable to do anything to please God. Praise God, His love is not based on IF we do something, WHEN we do something, or BECAUSE we do something. HE LOVES US ... because of His amazing GRACE.

PRESENT GRACE IS ROOTED IN THE SAVING DEATH AND LIFE OF GOD THE SON

Titus 3:5 states "NOT by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration .... " This passage clearly teaches we are not saved by our good works. In God's estimation, our "good works" (for salvation) are nothing more to Him than filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6). A filthy rag has absolutely no value! The grace of God is not "do", it is not "don't," but it is DONE! He has completed the work for our salvation (I Corinthians 15:3,4). Revelation 1:5 declares "Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood." We have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, According to the RICHES OF HIS GRACE" Eph. 1:7. When GOD saves us He makes us a new creation in Christ Jesus (II Corinthians 5:17). HE washes away our sins and buries them in the grave of God's forgetfulness (Hebrews 8:12)

There is a fountain filled with blood
Drawn from Immanuel's veins
And Sinners plunged beneath that flood
Lose all their guilty stains.

Paul, writing to the Christians in Rome, said "For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, WE SHALL BE SAVED BY HIS LIFE (Romans 5:10). The "life" referred to in this passage is the PRESENT life of Jesus Christ at the right hand of God the Father in Heaven. "But this man (Jesus) because He continueth ever .. .is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing HE EVER LIVETH TO MAKE INTERCESSION FOR THEM" (Hebrews 7:24-25). Romans 8:33-34 states "Who shall lay anything to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth (He has cleared us of every charge). Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, WHO MAKETH INTERCESSION FOR US." When believers sin, the LORD JESUS CHRIST, THE RIGHTEOUS ONE, stands up for us before the throne of GOD. He pleads that His own death on the cross paid the penalty for that particular sin and therefore, we cannot be condemned! Jesus Christ is our advocate, and there is therefore no condemnation to them which are in CHRIST JESUS (Romans 8:1).

God's GRACE is truly amazing.

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

If this devotion has been a blessing to you, please share it with others. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.

Ephesians 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ.

Click Below For FREE Email Subscription:
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
___________________________________