The Children of God

June 10, 2012

by Shawn Brasseaux

Is everyone “God’s child,” as often claimed? Who are “the children of God?” How does the Bible describe “the children of God” in this the Dispensation of Grace? In this Bible study, we want to search the Scriptures to learn more about our identity in Christ so we can further appreciate our identity in Christ.

 

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WE HAVE TRUSTED CHRIST

The Bible says in Galatians 3:26-28 KJV:

“26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.”

While it is often claimed that everyone is “God’s child,” this is not true. Verse 26 explains, “ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.” There are people who want nothing to do with Jesus Christ. Are they the “the children of God.” This verse unequivocally says, “NO!”

So, who then are “the children of God?” “For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.” The only “children of God” are those who have trusted Christ Jesus alone as their personal Saviour. If you are not relying on the Lord Jesus Christ alone as your mediator to God, then you are not God’s child. It is that plain and simple. If you are working for your salvation, relying on your own “goodness” to please God so He will accept you into heaven, then you are not God’s child. This is what God’s Word says.

Friend, if you are attempting to approach God through some religious figure (pope, pastor, guru, imam, archbishop, cardinal, et cetera), the Bible says that you will never reach God. Jesus Christ clearly declared, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). If you want to be a child of God, you must come by Jesus Christ. According to the Bible, everyone is not God’s child. Only those who have “faith in Christ Jesus” are God’s children. Unless a person has “believed on the Lord Jesus Christ” (Acts 16:31)—relying on His sacrifice at Calvary’s cross as the fully satisfying payment for his or her sins—he or she is not a child of God.

Once, we Christians were lost hell-bound sinners, children of the devil (John 8:44). We “were dead in our trespasses and sins,” following the evil world system (under Satan’s influence), doing our own thing and offending God’s righteousness (Ephesians 2:1-3).

There came a point in our lives when we (finally) threw up our hands in exhaustion. We (finally) realized that we were no-good wretches: all our “good” works displeased God. There, we (finally) acknowledged that we could never “measure up” to His righteous standards. There, we (finally) quit working for salvation, and trusted in the bloodshed, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ as sufficient payment for our sins (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). We received God’s salvation as a free gift, something we did not deserve (Ephesians 2:4-9)!

“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1). If you have trusted Jesus Christ’s finished crosswork on Calvary, you have total access to and peace with God through Christ Jesus our Lord. You are no longer separated from God because of sin. God’s righteous wrath against your sin and sins was poured out on His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, at Calvary’s cross. “In [Christ] we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of [God’s] grace” (Ephesians 1:7; cf. Colossians 1:14; Colossians 2:13).

Now, God, not Satan, is our Father (Romans 1:7 et al.). Now and forever, we are “the children of God!”

 

WE HAVE BEEN BAPTIZED INTO CHRIST

Going back to our main text of Galatians 3:26-28, let us focus now on verse 27: “For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.”

Those of us who have trusted Jesus Christ as our personal Saviour, we “have been baptized into Christ.” This is not water baptism, for the Bible reads that we “have been baptized into Christ,” not “baptized into water.” When we trusted Christ alone as Saviour, the Holy Spirit baptized us into the Church the Body of Christ. “For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body…” (1 Corinthians 12:13). The Holy Ghost, not a preacher or priest, administers the only valid baptism for this Dispensation of Grace (Ephesians 4:5).

When the Holy Spirit baptized us into the Body of Christ, He identified us with Christ’s death: “Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ [not water!] were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death…” (Romans 6:3,4a). Just as Christ died, we died to sin. Now, sin does not have dominion over us.

When Christ was raised, we were raised to “walk in newness of life” (verse 4b). Consider Romans 6:10,11 KJV: “For in that he [Christ] died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.” We have victory over sin in our lives when we simply walk (by faith) in this, our identity in Christ.

Literally, we have “put on Christ” (Galatians 3:28). We have been made “the righteousness of God in Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:21). God the Father sees us in Christ: He sees Christ’s righteousness, not our unrighteousness. Saints, God will always accept us in Christ (Ephesians 1:6). We will always be “the Body of Christ,” “the children of God.”

 

WE ARE EQUAL IN CHRIST

Now, we will return to our main text of Galatians 3:26-28 to consider verse 28: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female:….”

  • “There is neither Jew nor Greek” — Prior to our dispensation, God distinguished between Jew (“Circumcision”) and Gentile (“Uncircumcision”) (Ephesians 2:11,12): this distinction has been temporarily suspended (verses 13-18). In our dispensation, God looks beyond nationality; He only sees Christians (members of the Body of Christ) and lost people. “…For we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin;… Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them [Jew and Gentile] that believe: for there is no difference: for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:9,22,23).
  • “There is neither bond nor free” — This refers to social-economic statuses: today’s employer-employee relationship. In Bible times, masters (“free”) employed slaves (“bond”). God gives no special status to Christian masters (employers), nor does He grant Christian slaves (employees) any special standing (cf. 1 Corinthians 7:20-24). Again, when God looks at mankind, He only sees those that are “in Christ” and those that are not. “Neither is there respect of persons with [God]” (Ephesians 6:9c; Colossians 3:25b).
  • “There is neither male nor female” — All members of the Body of Christ are equally “blessed with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3). In God’s eyes, Christian women are of no lesser value than Christian men, and vice versa.

Galatians 3:28 can best be summarized by comparing it to 1 Corinthians 12:13, a verse we briefly considered earlier: “For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.”

While the Body of Christ consists of men and women, Jews and Gentiles, rich and poor, all Christians are equally saved in God’s sight (just as all lost people are equally dead in their trespasses and sins). All Christians “are complete in [Christ]” (Colossians 2:10), but few ever study the Bible dispensationally (as we do here) to discover their identity in Christ.

 

WE ARE UNITED IN CHRIST

One last time, we will return to our main text of Galatians 3:26-28, reading the remainder of verse 28: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.”

After briefly summarizing the identity of the members of the Body of Christ, Paul concludes with our unity, “For ye are all one in Christ Jesus.” Just as Jesus Christ desired unity amongst His Jewish kingdom believers—“That they all may be one” (John 17:16)—God wants unity in the Church the Body of Christ. (Understand, we should not and do not sacrifice doctrine for the sake of unity! We only fellowship with likeminded [Pauline dispensational] Christians; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18; cf. Romans 16:17,18; 1 Timothy 6:3-6).

If you have trusted in Christ Jesus alone as your personal Saviour, then these seven doctrines/issues unite you with every other member of the Body of Christ. The “[seven-fold] unity of the Spirit” is “There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all” (Ephesians 4:4-6).

How can all Christians be equal in God’s eyes, despite differences in nationalities, gender, and economic-social statuses? All members of the Body of Christ are positioned in the one body (of Christ) forever, they are all indwelt by the same Holy Spirit of God, they are all destined to reign in heaven with Christ forever, they have all trusted the Lord Jesus Christ as Saviour, they all rely on Christ’s faith (Calvary’s finished crosswork), they have all been baptized by the Holy Spirit into the Body of Christ, and they all have God as their heavenly Father. This is our God-given position in Christ! Indeed, saints, “Ye are all one in Christ Jesus.”

CONCLUSION

We members of the Church the Body of Christ have the same relationship with God that His Son Jesus Christ has! As members of the Church the Body of Christ, we can call God what Jesus Christ called God, “Abba, Father” (Mark 14:36). “And because ye are his [God’s] sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ” (Galatians 4:6,7 KJV).

Romans 8:14-17 KJV says:

“14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
15 For ye have not received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God;
17 And if children, then heirs, heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.”

The doctrines we have discussed here, which are only found in Paul’s epistles, Romans through Philemon, not only separate us from other believers in the Bible (such as the nation Israel), but they also give us a unique standing amongst the religious people of the world. It is these doctrines that make us Christians, Christians.

All Christians are equal in Christ. They all have the same justification (all declared before God to be as righteous as Christ Jesus), the same baptism (all members of the Body of Christ), the same righteousness (Christ’s righteousness), the same commission to preach the same Gospel of the Grace of God (2 Corinthians 5:14-21), and the same hope (heaven).

Our Lord looks beyond denominations, ethnicities, social-economic statuses, education, gender, weaknesses, and strengths. He looks at the hearts of all people, to only see two groups: those who are the children of the devil (John 8:44), and those who are “the children of God….”

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Confession of Sins

June 3, 2012

by Shawn Brasseaux

The Bible says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9 KJV). Should we believers in this the Dispensation of Grace practice this verse? Must we keep “short sin accounts,” as religion claims? Do we have to confess our sins to be saved? Must we Christians confess our sins daily to keep fellowship with God? If so, must we confess our sins to a preacher or priest, or to God? Let us be Bereans, and search the Scriptures to see whether these things are so (Acts 17:10,11)!

Before we attempt to follow 1 John 1:9, we must first consider who John is and why he wrote what he did. The greatest blunder of the professing Church the Body of Christ has been to use the Bible, but not to rightly divide it. To “name and claim” verses, but to ignore their context (author, audience, dispensation, et cetera). To fail to understand the divisions God has made in His Word, and to combine all of the Bible’s instructions to result in one giant mass of confusion!

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV). All of the Bible is for us, but not all of the Bible is to us or about us. Dispensational Bible study is the key to understanding 1 John 1:9.

 

PAUL, NOT JOHN, IS OUR APOSTLE

The Bible tells us in Romans 11:13 KJV that Paul is our apostle: “For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:”

God’s spokesman to us is not Matthew, Mark, Luke, John (Christ’s earthly ministry), and it is not Peter and the eleven. The man God sent to us is the Apostle Paul.

Paul wrote, “If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 14:37). The test for spirituality today is not how often one prays, gives, or attends church. According to the Bible, a spiritual person in this the Dispensation of Grace will acknowledge that God’s instructions for us are the Pauline epistles, Romans through Philemon. Just because you follow the Bible does not mean you are spiritual. You are spiritual only if you follow the Apostle Paul as he follows Christ (cf. 1 Corinthians 11:1).

Circa A.D. 51, James, Peter, and John met with Paul and Barnabas in Jerusalem. They reached an agreement, as found in Galatians 2:9: “And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.” Paul and Barnabas would go to “the heathen” (this is not simply Gentiles, but unbelieving Jews too) and James, Peter, and John would go to “the circumcision” (these are born-again Jews).

When we come to the little epistle of 1 John, we see that John is not writing to us Gentiles. He is writing to Jews. Dispensationally speaking, John is writing to Jews living beyond our present-day (post-Dispensation of Grace). John is not our apostle, so this is the primary reason why we do not practice 1 John 1:9.

 

WE ARE ALREADY FORGIVEN IN CHRIST

We have no need whatsoever to confess our sins to anyone, to God or to men (a priest or preacher). According to the Gospel of the Grace of God, our salvation and fellowship with God are independent of our performance. We are forgiven in Christ, apart from anything we have done.

In Colossians 2:13, our Apostle Paul explains that we are “forgiven of all trespasses [in Christ].” Ephesians 4:32 says, “God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” We are forgiven (past tense), not because we confess our sins, but because of Christ’s finished cross work on Calvary. In Christ, we have unbroken fellowship with God forever and ever. To say that we have to do something to gain God’s forgiveness—in this case, confess our sins—is to make void (cancel) God’s grace.  Grace what God can do for you because you can do nothing for God. God has already paid for all of our sins, so why rehash them over and over again? How many times can we be forgiven of “all unrighteousness?” Only once.

In Christ, now and forever, we are forgiven of all sins—past, present, and future!

 

SO, WHAT IS 1 JOHN 1:9 ACTUALLY TEACHING?

What John wrote about in 1 John 1:9 was nothing new for Israel. Confession of sins was Israel’s doctrine under the Mosaic Law.

In Leviticus chapter 26, the LORD warned Israel: “But if ye will not hearken unto me, and will not do all these commandments; and if ye shall despise my statutes, or if your soul abhor my judgments, so that ye will not do all my commandments, but that ye break my covenant: I also will do this unto you…” (verses 14-16a KJV).

From verse 16 and following, God lays out a five-fold plan of chastisement and judgment (punishment) for Israel’s breaking the Mosaic Covenant of Law. The LORD clearly instructed Israel regarding the “fifth course of judgment” in verses 38-42:

“38 And ye shall perish among the heathen, and the land of your enemies shall eat you up.
39 And they that are left of you shall pine away in their iniquity in your enemies’ lands; and also in the iniquities of their fathers shall they pine away with them.
40 If they shall confess their iniquity, and the iniquity of their fathers, with their trespass which they trespassed against me, and that also they have walked contrary unto me;
41 And that I also have walked contrary unto them, and have brought them into the land of their enemies; if then their uncircumcised hearts be humbled, and they then accept of the punishment of their iniquity:
42 Then will I remember my covenant with Jacob, and also my covenant with Isaac, and also my covenant with Abraham will I remember; and I will remember the land.”

The final series of judgment on wicked Israel would involve deportation (exile) into foreign/Gentile lands (Leviticus 26:27-46, the context of the above verses.)

Gentile armies would come and destroy Israel and scatter the Jews amongst the nations. If Israel would acknowledge and confess her sins (that is, breaking the Mosaic Covenant), then God would restore national Israel to fellowship and bring them back into the Promised Land (verses 40-42).

Daniel, while Israel is deported amongst the Medes, prayed and confessed his sins and the sins of Israel (Daniel 9:3-20, particularly verses 5-7,10,11,16, and especially verse 20). Ezra and Nehemiah, during the Persian exile, did the same as Daniel (Ezra 9:5–10:3; Nehemiah 1:4-11). In Nehemiah 9:1-3, repentant Jews confessed their sins and the sins of their fathers.

Even in the “New Testament,” Jews who admit their national failure to keep the Old (Mosaic) Covenant confess their sins and are baptized of John the Baptist (Matthew 3:6; Mark 1:5): Israel is under the fifth course of judgment by the time of John the Baptist. This is where 1 John 1:9 fits.

There are two groups of people in 1 John: some saved (forgiven), and some lost (not forgiven). In 1 John 1:9 John urges lost Jews to confess their sin of breaking the Old Covenant, so they can receive salvation (entrance into Christ’s earthly kingdom): this is exactly what John the Baptist preached.

To those Jews who had trusted Jesus Christ as Messiah-King, John wrote, “I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name’s sake” (1 John 2:12). Thus, 1 John 1:9 is not a practice for any believers, Jew or Gentile. It is for lost Jews because it is Israel’s plan of salvation in her prophetic (kingdom) program.

In addition, we Gentiles have never had any covenants with God (Ephesians 2:11,12). Consequently, it would be utterly pointless for us to confess our sin of breaking the Old Covenant like Israel did. Again, 1 John 1:9 is not written to saved Gentiles—it is written to lost Jews.

 

CONCLUSION

When we approach the Bible dispensationally, we understand that 1 John 1:9 has nothing to do with us. John is not writing to us Gentiles in the Dispensation of Grace (mystery program). He is writing to the nation Israel in the prophetic program (Galatians 2:9. Paul, not John, is God’s spokesman to us (Romans 11:13): Paul never tells us to confess our sins (for salvation or for fellowship). Furthermore, 1 John 1:9 is not written to saved people; it is directed to lost Jews (see 1 John 2:12).

In this the Dispensation of Grace, we understand that Christ Jesus has already dealt with our sins fully and completely at Calvary’s cross. Why do we have to confess our sins for forgiveness if Christ Jesus already forgave us of all of them at Calvary? We do not, for 1 John 1:9 is not for us to follow.

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Mother: A Virtuous Woman

May 13, 2012

by Shawn Brasseaux

Today is Mother’s Day, so we dedicate this Bible study to godly women (specifically mothers). I especially dedicate this to the virtuous woman who has been in my life for almost 24 years… my mom!

WHAT KING SOLOMON WROTE ABOUT MOTHERS/WOMEN OF GOD

Proverbs 31 is often called the Bible’s “Virtuous Woman” chapter. Let us begin reading Proverbs 31 at verse 10:

“10 Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.”

The virtuous (godly) woman is priceless—“her price is far above rubies”—for she is quite rare! Her husband safely trusts her. He has no need for material riches, for he is rich by having her as his wife! The virtuous woman will not harm her husband. She will submit to his headship and leadership (Ephesians 5:22-24; Titus 2:5). She will treat him with respect: as long as she lives, she will not abuse him or belittle him.

“13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.”
14 She is like the merchants’ ships; she bringeth her food from afar.”
15 She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.”
16 She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.”
17 She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.”

The virtuous woman is a hard worker: she does not sit around and do nothing. She seeks wool and linen to sew and weave. She cooks for and feeds her household. She contemplates a field, and buys it in order to plant a vineyard. Again, the virtuous woman is not lazy: she works hard.

“18 She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.
19 She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
20 She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.
21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
22 She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.”

According to the Bible, the virtuous woman weaves and sews to make merchandise to sell or trade. She stays up late working hard. The virtuous woman is compassionate: she pities the poor people who have little to nothing. She provides her family with clothes that keep them warm, so she does not fear snowfall. She makes herself clothing of silk and purple.

“23 Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.”

This verse means just what it says. Her husband is famous for being married to her. She has such a distinct lifestyle that others marvel at those who know her (especially her husband!).

“24 She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
25 Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.”

As we said regarding verses 18-22, the virtuous woman works hard. She produces goods (clothing, fabrics, et cetera) in order to sell them to make a living. What an expression—“Strength and honour are her clothing.” Strength and honor are her very nature! The virtuous woman speaks wisdom (God’s Word), and her speech is kind and gentle. She meets the needs of her household: again, she is not lazy (“[she] eateth not the bread of idleness”).

“28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
29 Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
30 Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
31 Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.”

The children of the virtuous woman praise her for her godly living. Her husband speaks well of her; he is proud to be her husband. The virtuous woman is a role model—she does not need to be sinless because she cannot be sinless. What is the virtuous woman, according to God’s Word? She is defined in verse 30 as “a woman that feareth the LORD.” The works of the virtuous woman praise her, for they reflect her godly beliefs and high values (her inner man).

WHAT THE APOSTLE PAUL WROTE ABOUT CHRISTIAN MOTHERS/WOMEN

We would also do well if we read what the Apostle Paul wrote about older Christian women and/or women who were mother-like figures to younger women. The Bible says in Titus 2:3-5 KJV:

“3 The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;
4 That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,
5 To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.”

The virtuous woman should not slander/gossip, not be controlled by alcohol and emotions (sober minded), be a teacher of good things, love her husbands and children, be cautious and modest, maintain the home, be “good,” and should obey (respect) her husband… “that the word of God be not blasphemed.”

CONCLUSION

A Christian woman, especially a mother, should be a virtuous woman in beliefs as well as in deed. She needs to set an example for her children (especially her daughters): it is her duty as an older Christian woman to set an example for younger women.

She should be a hard worker, she should meditate on the things of God (the Bible), her speech should conform to sound Bible doctrine, she should be hospitable and caring, kind and loving, she should respect and love her husband, she should love her children, and she should be modest and cautious in her actions—“that the word of God be not blasphemed.”

A Christian woman need not try to meet the Bible’s standards of womanhood/motherhood in her own strength, for she cannot meet them in her own strength. In the person of Jesus Christ, God has equipped the Christian woman to become a virtuous woman, a woman who values the things of God, and who places her faith in the Word of God.

When a Christian woman and/or Christian mother places her faith in this sound Bible doctrine, the indwelling Holy Spirit will then take that doctrine and transform her for God’s glory (1 Thessalonians 2:13). Her mind will be renewed by sound Bible doctrine, and that will transform her outward activity (Romans 12:1,2).

Are you a Christian woman or Christian mother who desires to be the woman God intends you to be in Christ Jesus? Place your faith in this sound Bible doctrine, and God will take care of the rest! Then, you will become the virtuous woman described on the pages of Scripture, thus bringing glory and honor to the great God and our Saviour the Lord Jesus Christ.

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Was Jesus Christ Really Dead?

May 6, 2012

by Shawn Brasseaux

Objections have been made regarding the literal, physical death of Jesus Christ. Skeptics suggest that Jesus was merely comatose or unconscious (i.e. “swooning”), but not literally dead. The record of the Bible makes it clear that Jesus Christ was “stone-cold” dead. To say otherwise is absurd ad infinitum.

In this Bible study, we want to use the Holy Scriptures to give five practical reasons and two doctrinal reasons to prove that Jesus Christ was literally “stone-cold” dead, just as dead as those in cemeteries today!

1. PILATE WOULD NOT RELEASE JESUS’ BODY UNTIL HE KNEW JESUS WAS DEAD

In Mark 15:43-45 KJV, the Bible tells us:

“43 Joseph of Arimathaea, an honourable counsellor, which also waited for the kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate, and craved the body of Jesus.
44 And Pilate marvelled if he were already dead: and calling unto him the centurion, he asked him whether he had been any while dead.
45 And when he knew it of the centurion, he gave the body to Joseph.”

Joseph of Arimathaea asked Judaean governor Pilate if he could have Jesus’ body, but Pilate would not release Jesus’ body until it was confirmed that Jesus was absolutely dead. Pilate called forth a Roman centurion to reassure him that Jesus had died. The centurion was a powerful Roman military leader. As commander of 100 soldiers, he was highly trained in torture techniques and capital punishment (declaring prisoners to be dead).

The Roman centurion confirmed that Jesus Christ was dead, completely lifeless. Once he told this to Pilate, Pilate released Jesus’ body to Joseph of Arimathaea. There was no doubt in Pilate’s mind, and no doubt in the centurion’s mind, that Jesus Christ was dead. Jesus had not simply fainted, but was literally and physically dead.

2. JESUS “GAVE UP THE GHOST”

The Bible gives us another proof that Jesus Christ was not comatose, but literally and physically dead as we understand death today. Let us consider John 19:30 KJV: “When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.” Mark 15:37,39 and Luke 23:46 also confirm that Jesus “gave up the ghost.” Matthew 27:50 says He “yielded up the ghost.”

Jesus “gave up the ghost.” To “give up the ghost” is the Bible’s term for literally and physically dying, when the soul-spirit (spiritual body) separates from the physical body (Genesis 35:18). This term was used to describe Abraham’s death (Genesis 25:8), Ishmael’s death (Genesis 25:17), Isaac’s death (Genesis 35:29), and other’s deaths (Lamentations 1:19); New Testament references are the deaths of Ananias and his wife Sapphira (Acts 5:5,10) and King Herod (Acts 12:23).

The term “giving up the ghost” was never used in the Bible to convey a coma or fainting spell, because burial was always subsequent to the giving up of the ghost. In Isaiah 53:8 the Bible confirms that Jesus Christ “was cut off out of the land of the living.” If you are not part of “the land of the living,” then what are you? YOU ARE D-E-A-D, NOT COMATOSE!!!!

According to Acts 2:27,31, Psalm 16:10 repeats Jesus Christ’s words to His heavenly Father: “For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell” (Psalm 16:10a). Jesus Christ is physically dead!! For more information about Psalm 16:10, see our study “Did Jesus Christ Go to Hell?”

The Passover lamb was a type of Jesus Christ. Every year, at Passover, Jews had to kill a spotless (healthy) young lamb or goat and shed its blood (Exodus 12:1-10). Paul wrote, “For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us” (1 Corinthians 5:7b). Just as the Passover lamb literally and physically died, Jesus Christ literally and physically died.

3. JESUS’ LEGS WERE NOT BROKEN

For a third proof that Jesus Christ literally and physically died, let us consider John 19:31-36 KJV:

31 The Jews therefore, because it was the preparation, that the bodies should not remain upon the cross on the sabbath day, (for that sabbath day was an high day,) besought Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away.
32 Then came the soldiers, and brake the legs of the first, and of the other which was crucified with him.
33 But when they came to Jesus, and saw that he was dead already, they brake not his legs:
34 But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water.
35 And he that saw it bare record, and his record is true: and he knoweth that he saith true, that ye might believe.
36 For these things were done, that the scripture should be fulfilled, A bone of him shall not be broken.

Crucified individuals suffocated because of limited diaphragm movement. However, on the cross, they could relieve their suffocation by pushing up with their feet. By doing this, some crucified people were known to have survived days hanging on the cross.

Verse 31 says that the day after the crucifixion was a Sabbath day, a “high day,” a religious day during which the Jews could not have Christ on the cross. He had die and had to be taken down before the Sabbath day began (which would be in a few hours—this was not the Saturday Sabbath, but a special Sabbath, “for that sabbath day was an high day”). The thieves who were crucified with Christ were still pushing up with their feet, so their legs had to be broken. This would ensure their death would occur before the Sabbath began (at 6 p.m.). The soldiers broke the thieves’ legs and the thieves died, being unable to push up with their legs.

However, when the soldiers came to Jesus’ body, the Bible says they did not break His legs. Why? He was already dead. Had He simply been unconscious, they would have broken His legs, so He would die. But, Jesus had already died. Again, these Roman soldiers knew when someone was dead; they were trained in meeting out capital punishment. Little did the soldiers know that by not breaking His legs, they had fulfilled an Old Testament prophecy (Psalm 34:20).

4. JESUS’ FOLLOWERS ANOINTED HIS BODY WITH SPICES FOR BURIAL

Our fourth piece of evidence from the Scriptures that Jesus was dead was that none of His followers revived Him. They knew He was dead. If He were simply unconscious, His followers would have tried to revive Him. The little flock of Jewish believers would not simply lose their King to some swoon: that is absolutely stupid. Rather they anoint His body with spices for burial—Jesus Christ is literally and physically dead, and they know it. That is why they placed Jesus in the tomb.

The Bible says in John 19:40-42 KJV:

“40 Then took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury.
41 Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden; and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet laid.
42 There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews’ preparation day; for the sepulchre was nigh at hand.”

5. THE UNBELIEVING JEWS WANTED JESUS DEAD

A fifth proof that Jesus died physically is that the Jews made absolutely sure they killed Jesus. In John 8:59, Jesus angered the unbelieving Jews by telling them they have disobeyed God and they are children of the devil. They pick up stones to stone Him, but He leaves unharmed. John 10:31 was another example of the Jews wanting to stone Jesus. Jesus was even accused of blasphemy, for John 5:18 says, “Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.”

Jesus had been such a controversial figure in Israel. The Jews were so convicted of their sin and unbelief that they saw to it that Jesus was literally and physically dead. They were tired of hearing Him preach against their wickedness. The Jews rejected the truth of God, so there is no way they let Jesus escape with a simple fainting. The Jews made absolutely sure that Jesus died.

6. IF CHRIST DID NOT REALLY DIE (MERELY A SWOON) THEN WE ARE NOT REALLY DEAD TO SIN

A sixth proof that Jesus died physically is one of doctrinal importance. According to the Bible, we Christians were “baptized into [Jesus Christ’s] death” (Romans 6:3). “Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him” (verse 8). Had Christ experienced a mere swoon (fainting), then we have simply been baptized into Jesus’ unconsciousness! Does that make any sense? It makes no sense whatsoever. Just as Jesus Christ died physically, we died to sin spiritually. Sin has no dominion over us, because we died with Christ too: “For he that is dead is freed from sin” (verse 7). A swoon cannot and will not fit the doctrine taught in Romans chapter 6. Swooning is something temporarily; death is permanent: we are not simply unconscious to sin, but we are dead to sin. In Christ, we are free from the power of sin. Just as Jesus Christ was separated from the land of the living by physically dying, we have been separated from Satan’s power of darkness by spiritually dying with Him (Colossians 1:13; cf. Romans chapter 6).

7. CHRIST HAD TO DIE IN ORDER TO DESTROY SATAN’S POWER

A seventh proof that Jesus Christ died physically is also of doctrinal importance, for the only way to overcome death and Satan was to die on Calvary’s cross! Physical resurrection is far more miraculous than regaining consciousness!!!

Let us read Hebrews 2:14 KJV: “Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;” Again, a swoon cannot and does not fit the doctrinal aspect of Christ’s finished crosswork. Notice in Colossians 2:15 KJV: “And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.” If Christ’s “resurrection” was nothing more than a recovery from fainting, how is that overcoming Satan’s power? How is that overcoming death? It makes no sense.

Both spiritual and physical death were the results of sin, Adam’s sin (Romans 5:12). The only way that God could reverse death was to die Himself, physically and spiritually. Experiencing a swoon cannot overcome death because a swoon is totally unassociated with death. The miracle is not a regaining of consciousness, but a literal resurrection from the dead. By Jesus Christ being raised from the dead, He defeated Satan. If Christ did not exert resurrection power (if it was a swoon), then do we have any hope in being resurrected? No!

Christ said, “I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death” (Revelation 1:18 KJV). Why does Christ now have the “keys of hell and of death?” He took them from Satan when He resurrected (defeated death). It was not a swoon; it was a literal, physical death.

CONCLUSION

How do we know Jesus physically died, that His soul literally left His body, and that it was not merely a swoon (fainting, a period of unconsciousness)?

  1. Pilate would not release Jesus’ body until He knew Jesus was dead
  2. Jesus “gave up the ghost”
  3. Jesus’ legs were not broken
  4. Jesus’ followers anointed His body with spices for burial
  5. The unbelieving Jews wanted Jesus dead
  6. If Christ did not really die (merely a swoon) then we are not really dead to sin
  7. Christ had to die in order to destroy Satan’s power

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Posted by Christian ambassador (Shawn Brasseaux)

Judas’ Replacement: Matthias or Paul?

April 15, 2012

by Shawn Brasseaux

Strangely, there is a debate in Christendom regarding who replaced Judas Iscariot as the twelfth apostle. Were the eleven apostles wrong in selecting Matthias, as some claim? Should Paul have replaced Judas instead of Matthias, as others claim? Who should have been Judas Iscariot’s replacement? Why do we not look at the Scriptures, instead of relying on idle speculation? In this Bible study, we want to show from God’s Word who replaced Judas Iscariot.

1. QUALIFICATIONS FOR JUDAS’ BISHOPRICK

Let us begin by examining Acts chapter 1, where the eleven apostles are seeking Judas’ replacement:

“15 And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)
16 Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.
17 For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.
18 Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out.
19 And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood.
20 For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take.”

The Old Testament references Peter is quoting in verse 20 are Psalm 69:25 and Psalm 109:8, which prophesied Judas’ deeds. According to Psalm 109:8, another man must fill Judas’ “bishoprick” (office of apostleship).

Let us continue reading in Acts chapter 1: “21 Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.”

In the above verses, we read the qualifications needed to be Judas’ successor. Firstly, this “twelfth apostle” must have been a follower of Jesus Christ from the beginning of John the Baptist’s ministry. Secondly, this man must have personally been with Jesus Christ after His resurrection until His ascension. Does Paul fit either of these qualifications? No, he does not. Paul was not saved until Acts chapter 9, a full year after Christ’s ascension. During Christ’s earthly ministry, Paul (then Saul of Tarsus) was an unsaved man headed for hell! Paul does not fit the qualifications needed to become Judas’ replacement.

By the way, were the eleven apostles wrong in choosing Matthias? In fact, the question itself is flawed. Notice again in Acts chapter 1:

“23 And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.
24 And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen,
25 That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.”
26 And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.”

Of the 120 brethren there (verse 15), only two men fit the qualifications of verses 21 and 22: Matthias and Joseph (Barsabas) Justus. But, notice verse 24—who actually chose Judas’ replacement? It was not Peter and the eleven apostles. It was the Lord Himself! “Lord, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen.” Are we so bold as to say God was wrong to appoint Matthias instead of Paul? We had better not be so foolish. The apostles were not wrong in choosing Matthias, for they did not choose Matthias—God chose him! So, why did they cast lots? Proverbs 16:33 KJV tells us: “The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD.” The casting of lots was simply to reveal whom the Lord had already chosen. Jesus Christ had already chosen Matthias as Judas’ replacement, and the apostles just drew lots to learn what God already decided.

2. PAUL’S UNIQUE APOSTLESHIP

Here is the second reason why Matthias, not Paul, is the “twelfth apostle.” Asserting that Paul is Judas’ replacement is a blatant denial of Paul’s unique ministry as “the apostle of the Gentiles” (Romans 11:13); contrariwise, the twelve were Israel’s apostles (Matthew 10:5-7; Galatians 2:9).

Paul was “one born out of due time” (1 Corinthians 15:8). God saved Saul of Tarsus (Paul) apart from Israel’s program—God saving a Jew apart from Israel’s program had never happened up to that point. “But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb, and called me by his grace, to reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen” (Galatians 1:15,16 KJV).

Jesus Christ told His twelve apostles to go to Jerusalem first, Judaea next, then Samaria, and finally the rest of the world (Luke 24:47-49; Acts 1:8). Jesus Christ commissioned Paul to go to Jew and Gentile, all at the same time (Acts 9:15,16). Obviously, Paul cannot be the “twelfth apostle.” Paul even wrote that Jesus Christ was “seen of the twelve…  and last of all he was seen of me also” (1 Corinthians 15:5,8). Paul did not consider himself to be one of the twelve apostles.

Jesus sent His twelve apostles to “baptize [all nations] in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 28:19), yet Paul wrote, “For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel” (1 Corinthians 1:17a). Obviously, Peter and the eleven were not preaching the same message as Paul was. Let us compare that to Galatians 2:7-9 KJV:

“7 But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter;
8 (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles🙂
9 And when James, Cephas [Peter], and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.”

Paul and Barnabas agreed to go to the Gentiles (which includes lost Jews); James, Peter, and John agreed to minister to believing Israel. Surely, Paul had a unique ministry and a unique gospel committed to his trust (verses 7 and 8). Paul cannot be confused with the twelve apostles.

3. PAUL CANNOT ENTER ISRAEL’S KINGDOM

Our third reason for rejecting Paul as Judas’ replacement is due to what Jesus said in Matthew 12:31,32 KJV: “Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men. And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come” (cf. Mark 3:29; Luke 12:10).

Israel obviously blasphemed against Jesus (“the Son of man”) by demanding His crucifixion, albeit God forgives them (Luke 23:34) because in Acts chapter 2, God pours out His Holy Spirit on the apostles in order to give Israel a renewed opportunity for repentance. If Israel rejects the apostles’ preaching in early Acts, they will blaspheme against the Holy Spirit (who is working in the apostles). In Acts chapter 7, Israel murders her prophet Stephen (who is filled with the Holy Ghost; verses 51,55).

Now, unbelieving Israel has nowhere to go (they have committed the “unpardonable sin” that Jesus predicted). According to the Old Testament, God’s wrath is nearing (cf. Acts 7:55,56; Psalm 110:1; cf. Psalm 68:1,2). One of those Holy Spirit blasphemers was Paul (Saul of Tarsus) (1 Timothy 1:13): Paul encouraged Stephen’s murder (Acts 7:58–8:3).

As a side note, what is the “world to come” of Matthew 12:32? It certainly is not purgatory, as the Roman Catholic Church claims! According to Hebrews 2:3-5 and Hebrews 6:4,5, the “world to come” is Israel’s coming kingdom (the millennial reign of Christ). The miracles that Christ and His apostles were performing were a preview/foretaste of the healing and deliverance during Israel’s kingdom.

Matthew 12:31,32 says the Apostle Paul cannot be forgiven in Israel’s program (dispensation). In order to save Paul, God postponed His wrath and created a new dispensation, our Dispensation of Grace (2 Peter 3:9,15,16). Jesus said the twelve apostles would rule in Israel’s earthly kingdom: “Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel” (Matthew 19:27,28).

Yet, according to Matthew 12:31,32, Paul cannot enter Israel’s kingdom. Matthias, not Paul, will reign over Israel in Judas’ stead in Christ’s millennial kingdom (Matthew 19:27,28). God did not make Paul Judas’ replacement, for Paul served as God’s apostle of the Gentiles (Romans 11:13; Romans 15:16; 2 Timothy 1:11).

CONCLUSION

We dare not deem Paul as Judas Iscariot’s replacement for three reasons. Firstly, Paul does not qualify for Judas’ replacement (Acts 1:21,22). Secondly, asserting that Paul is Judas’ replacement is a blatant denial of Paul’s unique ministry as “the apostle of the Gentiles” (Romans 11:13), while Judas’ replacement is an apostle of Israel (Matthew 10:5-7; Galatians 2:9). Thirdly, Paul cannot enter Israel’s millennial kingdom (Matthew 19:27,28 says the twelve apostles will enter that kingdom).

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Posted by Christian ambassador (Shawn Brasseaux)

Easter 2012 – Christ Liveth in Me

April 8, 2012

by Shawn Brasseaux

In religion, Easter is the time of year when pagans celebrate fertility, reproduction, and life (the heathen counterfeit of the God-given festivals Passover, which typified Christ’s death on Calvary, the Days of Unleavened Bread, symbolic of Christ’s burial, and Firstfruits, a type of Christ’s resurrection). Beloved, our desire is not to participate in faithless religious activity. We need sound Bible doctrine, for our faith needs to rest in this alone. Sound Bible doctrine—not religious tradition—is the only information that will matter in eternity.

Our goal in this Bible study is to show from God’s Word that the resurrection of Jesus Christ is not simply a story found in the pages of Scripture, and it is not to be remembered only once a year (Easter). The resurrection of Jesus Christ is a reality that should be in the minds of us Christians every day of the year.

* * *

Today, all professing Christians make reference to Christ’s crucifixion, but most of them do not respect the Lord Jesus Christ’s sacrifice. They talk about Calvary, they mention “Jesus died for our sins,” but this is merely a head knowledge. To the multitudes of these precious church members, Jesus dying on Calvary is just a historical fact. They have not placed their faith in that finished crosswork alone as the only way to heaven.

Instead, they exalt their religious performance above Jesus Christ’s crosswork—they never place their faith in Christ alone for salvation (religious people always want to work for salvation, so they ignore the sufficiency of Christ’s finished crosswork).

Let it be known that we Bible-believing Christians are saved alone by God’s grace through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ alone, and we celebrate Christ’s resurrection every day (not just on Easter).

CHRIST’S DEATH AND RESURRECTION: NOT JUST HISTORICAL FACTS

Historically, there was a (God-)Man named Jesus of Nazareth, the Messiah of Israel, who was condemned under the administration of the Roman governor Pontius Pilate after Israel shouted, “Crucify Him!” He was literally nailed to a Roman cross, He literally and physically died, and His body was literally buried in a rich man’s tomb. Three days later, He literally and physically resurrected.

But, this account is not simply historical fact—it is a spiritual reality that affects us today, nearly 2,000 years later. On that resurrection Sunday nearly 20 centuries ago, when Jesus Christ triumphed over Satan, sin, and death (Acts 2:24; Colossians 2:14,15; Hebrews 2:14), we too triumphed over Satan, sin, and death.

GOD’S WILL FOR US

God’s will is that “all men [all people] be saved…” (1 Timothy 2:4a). Friend, do you want to do God’s will? Then, get saved! Trust Christ Jesus alone as your personal Saviour (Paul’s Gospel) and receive eternal life in heaven. God the Holy Spirit will then take you and place you into the Church the Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:13). Salvation is that simple!

Once a person is saved, God’s will for this person is for he or she to learn why He saved them: He wants them “to come unto the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:4b). God wants to teach us His overall goal for creation and our role in accomplishing that purpose (we learn this by studying His Word, the Bible). Do you want to do God’s will as a Christian? Follow the Apostle Paul as he follows Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1)! Learn about God’s will for you in this Dispensation of Grace by focusing on Paul’s epistles, Romans through Philemon.

The Bible says that God’s “eternal purpose”—His overall will for creation—is to exalt Jesus Christ in the heaven and in the earth. This “eternal purpose” was something that God “purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” The whole issue is Jesus Christ! Let us notice Ephesians 1:9,10 KJV: “Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: that in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:” What are these “all things?” God the Father wants His Son Jesus Christ to be glorified in the governments of heaven and earth. Consider Colossians 1:16-20 KJV:

“16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:
17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.
18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.
19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;
20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.”

HOW WILL JESUS CHRIST BE EXALTED IN HEAVEN AND IN EARTH?

Notice what the Apostle Paul wrote: “[Christ] Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect [spiritually mature] in Christ Jesus: whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily” (Colossians 1:28,29). The same Spirit of God that worked in Paul to accomplish his ministry now wants to do that same work in and through us! What was this work God did in and through the Apostle Paul? It is the same good work He wants to do in and through us today!

“For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13). It is God’s “good pleasure” to work in us so that our Christian lives will bring Jesus Christ glory and honor. However, we are members of the Church the Body of Christ, so God’s primary goal is to one day take us to heaven and bring Him glory there (Ephesians 2:6,7).

Epaphras prayed that the Colossian believers “would stand perfect and complete in all the will of God” (4:12). Compare that to Paul’s prayer for the Thessalonian believers: “Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of his goodness, and the work of faith with power: that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Thessalonians 1:11,12; cf. Philippians 1:9-11; Colossians 1:9-11). The goal of God’s working in and through us is to glorify “the name of our Lord Jesus Christ in [us],” and to “glorify [us] in him.”

According to Philippians 2:13, God’s “good pleasure” is to work in and through us to accomplish His will. When we place our faith in the sound (dispensational) Bible doctrine that tells us what God is doing today (Paul’s epistles, Romans through Philemon), then God the Holy Spirit will use that doctrine to transform us from the inside (soul) out (lifestyle)!

Once you study, learn, and believe the King James Bible rightly divided (dispensationally), the indwelling Holy Ghost will use that sound Bible doctrine to work mightily in you. “…The word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe” (1 Thessalonians 2:13). What is God’s purpose in working in and through us? Let us search the Scriptures for the answer.

GOD’S DWELLING PLACE

In Ephesians chapter 2 (which I encourage you to read on your own), the Apostle Paul describes our sinful lifestyles and wicked nature before our salvation in Christ Jesus (verses 1-3). Verses 4-10 discuss how God saved us from sin and His wrath in order to make us His “workmanship” (creation). Verses 11 and 12 explain that when God dealt with Israel in “time past,” we Gentiles were “without Christ.” Verses 13-18 explain “but now,” in our Dispensation of Grace, God has removed the division between Jew and Gentile. God is now forming a spiritual body of believers, Jews and Gentiles.

Why is God forming the Church the Body of Christ? Ephesians 2:19-22 KJV explains:

“19 Now therefore ye [believing Gentiles] are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;
21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:
22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.”

God is forming the Church the Body of Christ so He can have a house (“an habitation”). The Holy Spirit not only lives in us Christians (1 Corinthians 6:19; 2 Corinthians 6:16; 2 Timothy 1:14), He wants to also live through us—to manifest His life living in us, so the lost world can see our new lifestyles and glorify Him!!

THE LIFE OF CHRIST IN US

God wants to fill our minds with sound doctrine, which we gain from proper (dispensational) Bible study, so the Holy Spirit can then take that doctrine and work in us (1 Thessalonians 2:13), “both to will and to do of his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13). God wants to teach us Christians His doctrine, so we can then believe that doctrine, so He can then use that doctrine to form Christ Jesus in us (Galatians 4:19).

Literally, the result will be “Christ [living] in us, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27; cf. Ephesians 3:16,17). “Christ… is our life” (Colossians 3:4). Galatians 2:20: “…Christ liveth in me….” Actually, our life is not our life; it is Christ living His life in and through us (Philippians 1:21).

The Apostle Paul wrote, “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;” (Ephesians 5:15-18). As people who have trusted in Christ Jesus alone as our personal Saviour, God’s Holy Spirit wants to fill us—not to give us a “charismatic high,” but rather to transform us from the inside out.

God does not want us Christians living carelessly: “walk circumspectly [carefully, cautiously], not as fools, but as wise….” God wants to fill us Christians with His Spirit so He can be glorified in our church families (Ephesians 5:19-21), our marriages and families (Ephesians 5:22–6:4), and our workplace (Ephesians 6:5-9).

God’s will is to “strengthen [us] with might by his Spirit in the inner man [soul]; that Christ may dwell in [our] hearts by faith” (Ephesians 3:16,17).  The indwelling Holy Spirit wants to strengthen us with sound doctrine so Christ can live His life in and through us (cf. Galatians 2:20). This is “Christ dwelling in our hearts by faith,” and this is God “working in [us] both to will and to do of his good pleasure.”

God wants “the word of Christ” to “dwell in [us] richly in all wisdom” (Colossians 3:16)—to fill us with sound (dispensational) Bible doctrine that will literally “dwell” (live) in us (cf. 1 Thessalonians 2:13)! The indwelling Holy Spirit takes the sound Bible doctrine we believe and He uses it to form Christ Jesus in us, so that the sound Bible teaching (Christ’s life) is literally transferred to us, and then our lifestyles better reflect God’s grace (Titus 2:11-15).

The “fruit of the Spirit” (evidence of the Holy Ghost working in us) will then be manifested in our lives: “love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance” (Galatians 5:22,23). The world cannot see Christ’s physical body; instead, they see Him living in us Christians! God wants to live His life and through us, but that will only happen if we understand and believe God’s Word to us.

Dispensational Bible study is important, and the Bible versions issue is important. If Christ is to live His life in and through you, you must have the right Bible and you must have the right information (the doctrine that belongs in our Dispensation of Grace, information that is only found in Paul’s epistles, Romans through Philemon). When Jesus Christ went to Calvary’s cross, He did not simply die to shed His sinless blood for our sins. He went to Calvary so that we could die to die with Him, and He was raised again so we could then be raised with Him to live a life pleasing in God’s sight! Romans chapter 6 is the best example of how the death and resurrection of Christ affects us:

“1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?
2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?
3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?
4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:
6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.
7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.
8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him:
9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.
10 For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.
11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.
13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.
14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.
15 What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.
16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?
17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.
18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.
19 I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.
20 For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness.
21 What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death.
22 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.
23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Eternal life is not something that we gain once we die and go to heaven, but something we have right now in Christ Jesus! The life—Christ’s life—that now lives in us Christians is the life that was given back to Christ nearly 2,000 years ago when He resurrected! The same power that raised Jesus Christ from the dead is now causing Him to live His resurrected life in and through us as we walk by faith in an intelligent understanding of God’s Word to us.
CONCLUSION

Jesus Christ died, not simply to help us get to heaven as religion teaches, but He died because our “good” works were nothing but “filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6) and “dung” (Philippians 3:8). Jesus Christ’s death was the only acceptable sacrifice to God: our good works cannot save us, and our good works will never save us. Our Lord Jesus Christ came to die for us so He could give His life to us when we trust Him, so He can then live His life in and through us! The life of Jesus Christ is anything but “dung” and “filthy rags.”

God’s will is not so much for us to do His will, but for us to allow Him to accomplish His will in and through us as we cooperate by faith in His Word to us (“Without faith it is impossible to please [God];” Hebrews 11:6).

God saved us, not simply to give us sinners an opportunity to avoid the hellfire that we deserve, but to make us trophies of His grace by Him doing the work in and through us (Ephesians 2:10). God (Jesus Christ) wants you to allow Him to live His life in and through you (Galatians 2:20; Philippians 1:21; Colossians 3:4) as you study and believe His Word His way (dispensationally). “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ [the rapture]” (Philippians 1:6).

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Posted by Christian ambassador (Shawn Brasseaux)

Be Ye Separate

March 4, 2012

by Shawn Brasseaux

When Christians first come to understand dispensational Bible study, they go through a transition period. I know this first-hand, having come to an understanding of right division about five years ago. Just as my family and I, and countless other believers have experienced, these Christians also come to a crossroads in their Christian life when they understand right division:

  • Should I abandon my current local denominational church that neither understands nor teaches the special ministry of the Apostle Paul, and thus find and attend a local grace church that is “Pauline?”

OR

  • Should I continue in my local denominational church because it has nice programs, since I have friends and family there, and given that I may be able to “convert” them to become “Pauline?”

What would God want them to do—stay in the local denominational church, or leave it and find and attend a grace church? This seems like a dilemma, but the best choice becomes clear once we consider God’s perspective. In this Bible study, we want to provide sound doctrine regarding the question—Do I stay in my denominational church, or do I pursue a grace church? Let us see what the Bible says. After all, God’s Word is the final authority.

* * *

The Christian church in Corinth had several problems that the Apostle Paul addressed. Notice 1 Corinthians 3:1-3 KJV:

“1 And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ.
2 I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.
3For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?”

Paul explains that all these problems in Corinth are due to spiritual immaturity—these believers were unable to think like mature Christians. For 18 months, the Apostle taught the Corinthians sound doctrine (Acts 18:1,11), but these Corinthians never believed that sound doctrine with their heart. Thus, they remained “babes in Christ.” Sadly, they had the spiritual capacity of someone who trusted Jesus Christ as Saviour just yesterday!

The writer of the book of Hebrews addressed similar Bible ignorance among Jews. Read Hebrews 5:11-14 KJV:

“11 Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing.
12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.
13 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.
14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”

The writer of the book of Hebrews declares that these Jewish believers should be teachers of God’s Word. Why are they not teachers? Like the Corinthian believers, these Jews are spiritually immature. They cannot tolerate spiritual meat, only spiritual milk. In fact, they do not know even the most basic Bible doctrines, so they are unable to teach anyone else!!!!! What a sad, sad, commentary!!

In the physical world, adults are wiser and stronger than children. This is also true in the spiritual world. Immature Christians do not know what God expects them to believe and what He expects them to do; thus, these “babes in Christ” are not as useful to God as mature believers. This is why God does not want immature Christians. God wants adult (mature) Christians. The method by which God spiritually matures us is to use proper Bible study in a local church setting. Notice Ephesians 4:11-15 KJV:

“11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.”

Notice, God wants “perfected” saints, Christians who “grow up into him [Christ] in all things.” This spiritual growth comes by “edification,” building up (strengthening), and edification comes by proper Bible study. Notice, we are studying the Bible, not catechisms, papal encyclicals, church history books, and patristic writings. In 2 Timothy 3:16,17 KJV we read: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be PERFECT, throughly furnished untoall good works.”

The Bible alone will bring about “perfect” (mature) Christians, individuals who know and understand God’s will for them. Mature Christians are “no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive” (Ephesians 4:14). Mature Christians—that is, those that know God’s truth for this the Dispensation of Grace—will not be deceived by religious tradition/satanic deception (just as in the physical world, adults are less likely to be deceived than children, so it is in the spiritual world).

The Lord Jesus Christ said, “It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4; cf. Luke 4:4). Just as physical food provides our physical bodies with nourishment, so “every word of God” provides our spiritual bodies with nourishment. A local church should be an environment where God’s Word is taught correctly, a church were “rightly dividing the word of truth” is seen as the only method of Bible study (2 Timothy 2:15). This is critical because those in attendance need to hear God’s Word to them, so they can then believe God’s Word to them, and finally they can then allow that Word to work in them for God’s glory.

But, exactly how will God grow our inner man, and produce spiritual maturity in our Christian lives?

WHO IS OUR PATTERN?

The Apostle Paul wrote, “Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me” (1 Corinthians 4:16 KJV). Paul also wrote in 1 Corinthians 14:37 KJV: “If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.” Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 11:1 KJV: “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ” (cf. Philippians 3:17; 1 Thessalonians 1:6). Paul is the only Bible author that declares, “Follow me.” Why? Paul writes in Ephesians 3:2,3a: “If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: how that by revelation he [Jesus Christ] made known unto me the mystery;”

Today, we live in the Dispensation of Grace, a time period separate from Israel’s prophetic program. In 1 Timothy 1:15,16 we read that God made Paul “a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him [Jesus Christ] to life everlasting.” In order to follow the Lord Jesus Christ in this the Dispensation of Grace, we must follow Him according to the doctrine He committed unto the Apostle Paul’s trust.

We do not follow Christ after His earthly ministry because that was God’s message to Israel (Matthew 15:24; John 4:22; Romans 15:8; 2 Corinthians 5:16). God’s message to us Gentiles living outside of Israel’s program is Paul’s 13 epistles, Romans through Philemon. God sent Paul to us: Paul is “the apostle of the Gentiles” (Romans 11:13; Romans 15:16; 2 Timothy 1:11).

Just as Israel followed Moses, we follow Paul. To follow Paul today is to follow Christ; conversely, to reject Paul is to reject Christ (John 13:20). Even the Apostle Peter admitted that the details of the Dispensation of Grace are only found in Paul’s epistles of Romans through Philemon (2 Peter 3:15,16).

God wants to “stablish” (stabilize) your Christian life and inner man by using a three-fold process. He wants you to understand the life that He has given to you in Christ Jesus, so that you can better understand what He is doing today, and then you can, by faith, follow Him and do the same. The Bible says in Romans 16:25,26 KJV:

“25 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,
26 But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:”

Notice the three-fold process of Christian edification:

  • “my gospel”—Paul’s Gospel, 1 Corinthians 15:1-4, is the foundation of the Christian life
  • “the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery”—this is Paul’s epistles of Romans through Philemon, the sound doctrine (building materials) which we use to build on that foundation
  • “the scriptures of the prophets”—this is all of the Holy Scriptures, in light of the doctrine revealed to Paul

This is why studying the Bible rightly divided is so important. We study all of the Bible, Genesis through Revelation, but we follow the design of Christian edification as laid out in Romans 16:25,26. If we refuse to follow the dispensational layout of Scripture, as most people refuse it, then we will be going against what God is doing today, and our Christian lives will be in shambles (which is why Christendom is in such pitiful shape!).

If you want to be spiritually “edified” (“strengthened”) and spiritually “perfected” (“matured”), you need to study the Pauline epistles of Romans through Philemon. “Rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15)—understanding that God’s Word to us is Paul’s epistles—is the key to understanding and enjoying the Bible. But, here is the problem….

 

“FULL WELL YE REJECT THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD, THAT YE MAY KEEP YOUR OWN TRADITION”

Most churches—even professing “Christian,” “evangelical” churches—are not studying God’s Word, God’s way (using dispensational Bible study). These local churches (denominational churches) are not conducive to learning God’s will for you. Why? These denominational churches encourage you to follow them in their vain religious tradition (which action the Lord Jesus Christ Himself rebuked in Matthew 15:1-9 and Mark 7:1-13).

Today, most “Christian” churches are anything but. They teach you to follow Israel’s system of worship—Israel’s water baptism, Israel’s tithing, Israel’s tongues, Israel’s Sabbath day, Israel’s prayers, Israel’s laws, Israel’s diets, Israel’s healing miracles, and so on.  Again, what God is doing with Israel is not what He is doing with us the Church the Body of Christ. Nevertheless, most churches refuse to teach this because they want to keep their tradition.

These churches do not follow the doctrines in the Apostle Paul’s epistles; they teach us to mimic Jesus’ earthly ministry (Matthew through John), which is God’s Word to Israel, not to us (Matthew 15:24; John 4:22; Romans 15:8). If we are doing what God told Israel to do, that is not faith and that is not what God is doing today—thus, when we follow Israel’s program, we are literally fighting against God’s work today!

 

COME OUT FROM AMONG THEM

Because God wants to teach us sound doctrine, He also wants us to avoid places (religious settings) where sound Bible doctrine is not taught. Notice 2 Corinthians 6:14-18 KJV:

“14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?
16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.
18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.”

The goal of the “ecumenical movement” is to have all “Christians” of every denomination ignore their doctrinal differences, and fellowship! This passage screams against such nonsense. (Actually, the ecumenical movement is preparing society for the one-world religion of Revelation chapter 17.)

Opposed to the ecumenical slogan, “Come as ye are, we accommodate all faiths!,” Scripture declares: “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.” This is actually quoting the Old Testament passages that God directed to the nation Israel! (Refer to Exodus 25:8, Exodus 29:45-46, Leviticus 26:12, Isaiah 52:10-11, and Ezekiel 37:27.) God told Israel not to mingle with the world’s (satanic) religious system.

As the psalmist declared: “For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the LORD made the heavens” (Psalm 96:4-5). The Thessalonians abandoned their former religious life, idolatry and false teaching in religion, and they embraced the sound doctrine of “the living and true God” (1 Thessalonians 1:9), the God of the Bible, and the doctrine Jesus Christ committed unto the trust of the Apostle Paul. These pagans who came to know Christ Jesus discarded their heathen practices and assembling around false gods, and we should do the same.

The denominational church that you attend hid the marvelous truths of God’s Word rightly divided from you, so why do you want to continue going there, bringing about bondage and spiritual darkness? Why prefer Satan’s trap of religious tradition (2 Timothy 2:24-26)? There is no sensible reason.

 

OBJECTIONS?

  • But the denominational church I attend professes that “Jesus is Lord!” So, in Matthew 7:21-23, people say “Jesus is Lord,” and they claim to have done many “good” deeds in the name of “Jesus.” Jesus declares to them, “I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”
  • But the denominational church I attend preaches “the Gospel” and talks about “being filled with the Spirit.” So, 2 Corinthians 11:3,4 and Galatians 1:6-9 speak of damnable gospels, another (or false) Jesus, and false spirits. Be careful friend. It may not be the Holy Spirit working in that church.
  • We cannot find the “perfect church.” Of course not, but we are seeking a SOUND CHURCH.

 

CONCLUSION

As King James Bible-believing Pauline dispensationalists, we cannot unite with religionists and denominationalists because they deny the clear teachings of the Holy Bible. We refuse to embrace man’s “wisdom” and church tradition. As Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 6:15: “What concord [agreement] hath Christ with Belial [Satan]? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel [unbeliever]?” We have no fellowship with any religion—and that includes any “Christian” group that does not follow the rightly divided Word of God. There is no seven-fold unity of the Spirit between them and us (Ephesians 4:1-6). Go to 1 Timothy 6:3-5 KJV and read:

“3 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;
4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.”

Notice the word “wholesome” in verse 3; it means “promoting health.” If we want to be productive and mature ambassadors for the risen Christ, we need sound doctrine that will strengthen our inner man. We need “wholesome words…the words of the Lord Jesus Christ…the doctrine which is according to godliness.” This is a reference to doctrine in Paul’s epistles, not the doctrine in the Four Gospels, because the Four Gospels belong to Israel, not us.

The Bible says those who prefer religious tradition instead of God’s Word “rightly divided” do not know what they are talking about. They are arrogant and ignorant (unlearned/untaught). Foolishness and arguing are their ways. They have “corrupt minds” and are “destitute of the truth.” Paul warned us to avoid these types of people because they will only tear us down spiritually.

Look at what Romans 16:17,18 KJV says about false teachers: “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.” The Bible says time and time again to refuse any preacher who does not agree with sound, Pauline doctrine. God’s Word says that these false teachers “serve not our Lord Jesus Christ.” Satan has his people promoting his doctrine; his goal is to keep you from hearing God’s Word to you, and to keep you from knowing what God wants you to know. There are false Bibles, false teachers, and false brethren. The Pauline epistles scream: AVOID ALL THREE!

God does not want us fellowshipping in any religion or any denomination. Religion is satanic and anti-grace. If you compromise God’s truth and unite in error, your Christian life will be polluted and destroyed. If your pastor or church follows Jesus according to His earthly ministry, then flee from that assembly, friend. That is not what God is doing today. The Bible says that God made Paul our pattern. If ye are to be followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, ye must be followers of Paul!

The goal of anti-Pauline preachers is to deceive the simple-minded to make a profit and to perpetuate their own church tradition (denomination). When you hear or see a false teacher, flee, because your spiritual health depends on it! If he does not follow Paul, find a preacher who does. If you cannot find a local grace church, contact me, and I can help you with finding one through the internet.

We have unashamedly chosen to separate unto truth, and we unapologetically refuse to unite in error. Be ye separate!

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Posted by Christian ambassador (Shawn Brasseaux)

A Kingdom of Priests Versus a Body of Ambassadors

February 26, 2012

by Shawn Brasseaux

Have you ever heard the expression “the priesthood of the believer?” Are we Christians “priests,” or is this just vain religious tradition? We want to study the Bible God’s way in order to reach a sound conclusion regarding this issue.

First, we want to examine and consider the Bible passages that people often use to promote the idea that we Christians are “priests.” Then, we will be able to determine what to believe about this matter.

* * *

One of the most widely used passages in this regard is 1 Peter 2:5,9,10. Let us read those verses as found in the King James Bible:

“5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ….
9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:
10 Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.”

Another verse used to teach the “priesthood of the believer” doctrine is Revelation 1:6 KJV: “And [Jesus Christ] hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.” And Revelation 5:10 KJV: “And [the Lamb, Jesus Christ] hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.”

Certainly, we the Bible does call believers “priests,” but there is one thing we need to clarify—which believers? Who is the “ye” and the “us” in the above passages? Oftentimes, it is wrongly assumed that everything in the “New Testament” (that is, Matthew through Revelation) applies to us members of the Church the Body of Christ. This is why there is abounding confusion in Christendom. Understand that some New Testament passages are written to Israel, not to us. We need to exercise caution before we follow verses in the New Testament, lest we claim something that God promised Israel and not us.

If we return to the Bible passages 1 Peter 2:5,9,10, Revelation 1:6, and Revelation 5:10, it is apparent from the context that these verses do not apply to us members of the Church the Body of Christ. For instance, the people spoken of in 1 Peter 2:9 are called “a royal priesthood,” but they are also called “an holy nation.” Are we the Church the Body of Christ a “holy nation?” Certainly not, therefore this verse is not talking about us Christians in this the Dispensation of Grace.  Revelation 1:6 and Revelation 5:10 not only say that believers are “priests,” but also “kings.” Are we “kings?” Again, the answer is NO. But there is more Scriptural evidence that indicates these passages do not apply to us.

In order to understand any Bible topic, we must use dispensational Bible study. The Apostle Paul writes in 2 Timothy 2:15: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” The only verse in the Bible that tells you to “study” the Bible is the also the solitary verse in the Bible that tells you how to study the Bible: “rightly dividing the word of truth.”

Right division means we are recognizing divisions that God has placed in His Word. All of the Bible is for us, but not all of the Bible is to us or about us. Not everything in the Bible is directed to us, and we know that because we cannot follow every instruction given in the Bible (In fact, some Bible verses teach doctrines opposite to what other Bible verses teach, so what then?). So, how do we solve all these so-called “contradictions” in the Bible? The key is to use the context of the Bible verse/passage to determine the people to whom God is speaking. Is God speaking to us, or is He speaking to someone else?

Undoubtedly, 1 Peter 2:5,9,10, Revelation 1:6, and Revelation 5:10 all say that believers are “priests,” but dispensational Bible study demands that we ask these two questions: (1) “Who wrote these passages?” and (2) “To whom were these passages written?”

Answer to Question #1: Obviously, the Apostle Peter wrote 1 Peter (1:1) and the Apostle John wrote the book of the Revelation (1:1).

Answer to Question #2: Galatians 2:9 says that Peter and John are apostles of Israel. Peter and John are not writing to us Gentiles; they are writing to Jewish believers, the believing remnant of Israel! The Bible verses 1 Peter 2:5,9,10, Revelation 1:6, and Revelation 5:10 are written to Jewish believers. We are Gentiles, not Jews; therefore, these passages do not apply to us.

Lest someone charge us with not providing enough biblical support for this conclusion, we will offer additional verses for consideration.

God’s message to us as members of the Church the Body of Christ is found in Paul’s 13 epistles, Romans through Philemon. Our doctrine, duty, walk, and destiny as members of the Body of Christ are found in Paul’s epistles alone. The remainder of the Bible focuses on God’s purpose and program for the nation Israel. Christendom refuses to recognize the distinction between Israel’s prophetic program (Acts 3:21) and our mystery program (Romans 16:25); hence the abounding confusion about the Bible.

Re-read 1 Peter 2:5,9: “Ye also,…a spiritual house, an holy priesthood,…a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people.” Let us look at the Old Testament parallel passage, Exodus 19:5-6 KJV: “Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine: and ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel.” These words were clearly spoken to Israel. Peter simply repeated to Israel what God told them through Moses many centuries before. Notice how the word “nation” appeared in Exodus chapter 19 and 1 Peter chapter 2. Again, is the Church the Body of Christ a nation? No, but Israel is a nation! See, the Bible makes perfect sense if we use it God’s way.

From Abraham to the time of Christ’s earthly ministry (Four Gospels), Israel was God’s chosen people on earth. When Israel killed her Messiah (Jesus Christ) and refused to repent in the early Acts period, ultimately stoning her prophet Stephen and blaspheming against the Holy Ghost in Acts chapter 7, God changed the program. Today, in our Dispensation of Grace, the Apostle Paul writes that the nation Israel is “fallen,” “cast away,” and “spiritually blinded” (Romans 11:11,15,25).  Because Israel rejected her Messiah-King Jesus Christ, and demanded His crucifixion, Israel’s kingdom was never established on the earth.

Israel has never been a “kingdom of priests”… yet. The passages of 1 Peter 2:5,9,10, Revelation 1:6, and Revelation 5:10 all belong to a future time period, beyond our present day.

In our dispensation, God has temporarily set Israel aside. Consequently, for nearly 2000 years now, the nation Israel has not enjoyed that privileged status she once held. The day is coming, however, when God will remove Israel’s spiritual blindness, “and so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob [Israel]: For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins” (Romans 11:26-29). This is the “New Covenant,” which God will establish with Israel at Christ’s Second Coming (Acts 3:19-21; Hebrews 8:8-13; Hebrews 10:15-17).

Once the Church the Body of Christ is complete, it will be raptured from the earth and taken into the heaven, and then this Dispensation of Grace will end (1 Corinthians 15:51-58; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). After the rapture, there will be a seven-year period of God’s wrath, known as the Tribulation (Daniel’s 70th week, or Jacob’s trouble). The Tribulation will conclude when Christ returns at His Second Coming to establish His kingdom on the earth, and this is when Israel will be a “kingdom of priests.”

Let us consider what Isaiah 61:1-6 KJV says:

“1 The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;
2 To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn;
3 To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.
4 And they shall build the old wastes, they shall raise up the former desolations, and they shall repair the waste cities, the desolations of many generations.
5 And strangers shall stand and feed your flocks, and the sons of the alien shall be your plowmen and your vinedressers.
6 But ye shall be named the Priests of the LORD: men shall call you the Ministers of our God: ye shall eat the riches of the Gentiles, and in their glory shall ye boast yourselves.”

According to Luke 4:16-21, Isaiah 61:1 and the first one-third of verse 2 were fulfilled during Christ’s earthly ministry (His First Coming). The remainder of verse 2 down through verse 6 has yet to come to pass: “the day of vengeance of our God,” for example, is the seven-year Tribulation, and “to comfort all that mourn” refers to the subsequent 1000-year earthly kingdom where the curse on creation will be removed and Israel will dwell in her land safely. Verses 3 through 6 describe the earthly millennial reign of Jesus Christ as King of kings and Lord of lords. Israel will be restored and comforted, she will dwell in peace and prosperity, and Jews will be “Priests of the LORD” and “the Ministers of our God” (Isaiah 61:6).

Israel will be restored and comforted, she will dwell in peace and prosperity, and Jews will be “Priests of the LORD” and “the Ministers of our God” (Isaiah 61:6). Notice, Revelation 20:6, “Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.” Israel will not be a kingdom of priests until Christ sets up His millennial kingdom.

This is in perfect accordance with Exodus 19:5-6, 1 Peter 2:5,9,10, Revelation 1:6, and Revelation 5:10.

In this future kingdom, lost Gentiles will seek JEHOVAH, but the only way they can approach Him is if they come through Israel! Jews will be the mediator between Gentiles and God Almighty (see Zechariah 8:20-23, Isaiah 42:1-6, Isaiah 60:1-3, and Matthew 28:18-20, for instance). Please note that none of these Scriptures relate to us today because we are not the nation Israel and we are not living in her prophetic program.

In fact, 1 Peter 2:10 tells us that these Jewish believers “in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.” “Not God’s people” describes Israel today (Hosea 1:9; Romans 10:1-3). In the future, our dispensation will be seen as this period of “time past.”

 

WHERE WE FIT IN

So, as Christians, members of the Church the Body of Christ, we are not “priests.” What are we then? We need to go to our apostle, the Apostle Paul: Paul is “the apostle of the Gentiles,” so he is God’s spokesman to us (Romans 11:13; Romans 15:16; 2 Timothy 1:11). Never does Paul use the term “priests” to describe us believers today. *NOTE: Modern Bibles (NIV, NASB, NRSV, ESV, et cetera) insert the word “priest” into Romans 15:16, but was Paul ever a priest? Then, why do modern Bibles say that he was? (Because they are being dishonest!)

The Apostle Paul speaks of us in 2 Corinthians 5:20 as Christ’s “ambassadors.” An “ambassador” is one sent to a foreign territory to represents his or her homeland. As Christian ambassadors, our lives (should) represent heaven: “For our conversation is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20). Furthermore, we are not a kingdom because Jesus Christ is not our King; He is Israel’s King. Paul wrote that Jesus Christ is our “Head,” the Head of the Church that is His Body (Ephesians 1:22,23; Ephesians 4:15; Ephesians 5:23; Colossians 1:18; Colossians 2:19).

We as members of the Church the Body of Christ are not “a kingdom of priests;” we are “a body of ambassadors.”

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Posted by Christian ambassador (Shawn Brasseaux)

Mardi Gras 2012 – God’s Grace on Parade

February 19, 2012

by Shawn Brasseaux

Here in Louisiana, a state dominated by Roman Catholicism, Mardi Gras is perhaps the most celebrated festival. Mardi Gras, French for “Fat Tuesday,” is a day when religious people consume as much alcohol as they want, eat as much rich and fatty foods as they want, and party as much as they want. While I love the dear people who participate in these events, I, as a Bible-believing Christian, object to such activities. Please understand that the following study is not intended to belittle or attack, but to provide sound doctrine regarding a matter that many enjoy but few understand.

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A BRIEF SUMMARIZATION OF FAT TUESDAY, ASH WEDNESDAY, AND LENT

Religious people are told that, after they have “sinned all they want” on Fat Tuesday, to repent of that wickedness, to mourn, and turn to God. On the day after Fat Tuesday, Ash Wednesday, clergymen place ashes on the foreheads of the church members as a sign of their “repentance.” “Lent” is the 40-day period between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday. During these weeks, religious people endure “penitential preparation” for Easter Sunday. They are encouraged to “get closer to God” and make their lives more closely resemble Jesus’ life. How?

Their clergy urge them to pray, do penance (suffer and apologize for their sins), have repentance (feel sorry for their sins and/or turn from their sins), give alms (give material goods/money to others), and seek self-denial (temporarily give up luxuries such as a hobby or favorite food). These dear souls are even told they cannot eat meat on the Fridays during Lent (fasting). Did you know that God’s Word says that “commanding to abstain from meats” is a “doctrine of devils” (1 Timothy 4:1-3)?

So, why do they observe Lent? They claim to be following “Jesus” when He fasted for 40 days (Matthew 4:2; Luke 4:2). To Satan’s delight, Mardi Gras appears so innocent and it hides behind the cloak of religion. People are completely blinded regarding Mardi Gras, just like they are regarding much of the other activities in “Christian” circles today. Let me further demonstrate this.

 

THE DECEPTION AND PAGANISM OF MARDI GRAS EXPOSED

Why is Mardi Gras a period of drunkenness, overeating, and partying followed by a time of fasting? Historians tell us that Mardi Gras can be traced back to the pagan Roman festivals Saturnalia and Lupercalia, wild and shameful celebrations of fertility and springtime. Lupercalia was noted for its orgies and sexual excesses while Saturnalia was celebrated with overeating and revelry (drunken parties). And then, after the excess, the pagans fasted. Does that sound familiar? Is that not what Mardi Gras is all about? Despite its “Christian” veneer, history claims that Mardi Gras is not a Christian celebration at all. Pagans originally celebrated it, albeit they called it other names (Lupercalia and Saturnalia).

How did Mardi Gras become associated with Christianity? Well, when Christianity came to Rome in the first centuries A.D., church leaders knew that it would be impossible to convince the pagans to abandon their ungodly practices, worthless idols, and unbiblical beliefs. What was the solution to uniting the Roman Empire? The church leaders simply incorporated that heathenism into Christianity! This is the origin of several “Christian” holidays, including Valentine’s Day, Mardi Gras, Easter, Halloween, and Christmas.

A few weeks ago, a local Roman Catholic priest wrote a column in my local newspaper.  The poor soul actually defended Mardi Gras as something godly, withholding the historical facts that he should have known. He claimed, “Getting drunk and wreckless [sic] is not the spirit of Mardi Gras in its origin. Rather, it was to tap into the rhythm of life of celebrating and mourning, of eating and fasting, of laughing and crying. It is what the author of the Book of Ecclesiastes was inspired to write….” Basically, he argued that since Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 says there is “a time for” everything, Mardi Gras is no exception! He concluded his article with, “As long as there is no sin, celebrate Mardi Gras with gusto so the 40 days of Lent will be entered into with willingness and even a sense of joy.” (Bold emphasis mine.) According to him, you can celebrate Mardi Gras, a sinful holiday, without committing sin. Shame! Shame! Shame!

I wrote a letter to the editor, and surprisingly, it was published. In that letter, I objected to this priest’s statements and pointed out that his entire argument was misleading. Some may argue that this was an honest mistake on his part, so be it known, that, to my knowledge, that priest made no attempt to correct his untruthful statements. He never recanted or retracted his claims.

More recently, this same Catholic priest wrote yet another column in our newspaper, and this time, his topic was Lent. He wrote, “Marked on this coming Wednesday with ashes as a reminder that we are dust and unto dust we all shall return, we enter this season to reflect on how best we can walk with Jesus, knowing that ‘if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him’ (Romans 6:8). This is a holy time—a time to believe more and more in the good news of Jesus.” Notice again how Mardi Gras and Lent is associated with Jesus Christ. Furthermore, Lent is a “holy” time? Well, as long as we compare Lent to the shameful carousel on the previous Tuesday, I guess Lent IS holy!

 

MARDI GRAS ON PARADE

Quite frankly, religious people use Mardi Gras as a license to sin. Mardi Gras parades, complete with bead tossing from floats, involve alcohol, gluttony, and dancing. Sexual acts—including exposing certain body parts—are prevalent. People just seem to lose all temperance, doing whatever they want and how much they want. And, may we add masks are donned as to keep their identities secret!

When the parades are over, the streets are covered with vomit and polluted with literally tons of litter. Do you know what is most pitiful? They claim that this is a “holy time!” Now do you see why Jeremiah 17:9 explains that man’s heart is “wicked,” “deceitful above all things?” They have deceived themselves into thinking that ungodly activity honors God, since they will confess it and repent of it all the next day!

Sadly, there is no shame whatsoever. The Mardi Gras parades are broadcast on television and published in our newspapers. While wearing cross necklaces (of all things!) these revelers drink and party. And guess what? The media even refers to them as “revelers.” Again, they are open about their sin.

 

GOD’S GRACE ON PARADE

Every Mardi Gras, I am reminded of a verse in Romans: “…Where sin abounded, grace did much more abound” (5:20). Mardi Gras is sinful in that it involves drunkenness and sexual promiscuity. But it is all the more wicked because this blatant sin is committed in the name of “God!”  The Mardi Gras colors purple, green, and gold represent justice, faith, and power, respectively. Again, Mardi Gras appears to be “Christian.”

In addition, a notable confection of Mardi Gras is the “king cake,” which is decorated with green, purple, and gold icing. It symbolizes the “three kings” who visited the baby Jesus. A plastic baby is even hidden in the king cake. Regardless of all its biblical allusions (ILLUSIONS!), Mardi Gras is still evil and anti-God.

Despite all this sin, even when it is committed in the name of “God,” the Lord Jesus Christ in His abounding grace and mercy, continues to tolerate mankind. Year after year, Mardi Gras Season after Mardi Gras Season, mankind parades his sin, and God parades His grace. God holds back that wrath that mankind so rightfully deserves.

People believe they are getting away with their sin, but the Bible says this about their “payday.” “[God] Who will render to every man according to his deeds: Unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation, and wrath, tribulation and anguish, upon every soul that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;” (Romans 2:6,8,9 KJV). There is “pleasure of sin,” but the Good Book says, it is but “for a season” (Hebrews 11:25). “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap” (Galatians 6:7).

 

WHERE THE SAINTS STAND

Throughout my short life, I have personally known scores of “Christians” who find Mardi Gras totally acceptable. They believe it is godly, when, in fact, the Bible exposes “revelry” as sin, a “work of the flesh” (Galatians 5:19-21). Even the Apostle Peter—who Rome claims was its “first pope”—disagrees with and condemns reveling (1 Peter 4:3). Peter forbade “excess of wine, revellings, and banquetings” (1 Peter 4:3). Galatians 5:19-21 claims that “drunkenness” and “revellings” are “works of the flesh.” Paul wrote, “Be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess” (Ephesians 5:18). The Holy Spirit, speaking through the Apostles Peter and Paul, was clearly against Mardi Gras reveling and drunkenness. So why do we have professing Christians engaging the very activities that God the Holy Spirit condemned?!

Mardi Gras is completely offensive and unacceptable to God and to those who have trusted in the Lord Jesus Christ alone for salvation. Christians should speak out against such foolishness. It mocks our Saviour… even more so because they commit sin using HIS name!!!! As Christians, we are taught to “deny” the activities that accompany Mardi Gras.

Titus 2:11-15 KJV explains:

“11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,
12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;
13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;
14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
15 These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.”

There is nothing biblical about Mardi Gras. It is not “sober, righteous, or godly.” It does not reflect the grace life that we have in Jesus Christ. Mardi Gras entails riotous and careless living. God’s grace teaches us Christians not to sin, to lead lives that are responsible and temperate. Sin is not who we are anymore. Romans 6:11-15 KJV says:

“11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.
13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.”
14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.
15 What then? shall we continue in sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.”

Can the Bible be any clearer? Mardi Gras is not for Christians.

 

CONCLUSION

So, perhaps I have gotten your attention, and have made you see things you never realized before. To the Lord alone be the glory if that is true! Maybe you are a Mardi Gras reveler. Perhaps you are still dead in your trespasses and sins and destitute of eternal life. The key is not to stop the Mardi Gras revelry in your own strength. Come to God as you are and He will take care of the rest. He will clean up your life and give you peace, joy, righteousness, and love. God accepts us in His Son, the beloved, Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:6). The wonderful Gospel of the Grace of God declares that God did for you at Calvary what you could never do: “Christ died for our sins, He was buried, and He was raised again the third day” (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). Jesus Christ shed His sinless blood and died to put away all of your sins, Mardi Gras revelry included.

No fasting, no penance, no confession, and no self-denial will ever merit the favor of God. By trying to please God in your own strength, you will only condemn yourself. You are a sinner, so you cannot do anything to please God. But, because you are a sinner, God can save you. You can be made “the righteousness of God in Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:21). How?

“But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness” (Romans 4:5). God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to die for everything that is wrong with you. Why not trust in Jesus Christ alone, that His finished crosswork is sufficient to pay for your sins? God has forgiven you and you do not have to go to hell! Come to God as you are, and by faith, rest in Christ Jesus alone as your Saviour. If you do, God will save you forever, and make a trophy of His grace. And then YOUR life will be God’s grace on parade!

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Posted by Christian ambassador (Shawn Brasseaux)

Valentine’s Day 2012 – God is Love

February 12, 2012

by Shawn Brasseaux

In today’s world and culture, the word “love” is used very flippantly. Many people speak of it, but very few know what it is. While people have their minds focused on the upcoming “Valentine’s Day,” with all its distorted views of love (fornication in paganism), we offer this sound doctrine from God’s Word to correct the misunderstandings of what love really is.

* * *

The thirteenth chapter of 1 Corinthians is often wrongly referred to as “the Bible’s great love chapter,” when it is, in fact, the Bible’s great charity chapter. As we will see, while the words charity and love are often used interchangeably, they are not entirely synonymous. The Apostle John, writing to the nation Israel, writes about love in 1 John 4—this is “the Bible’s great love chapter.” Although we understand that 1 John is not written to us as members of the Church the Body of Christ, we can learn about love, and specifically, God’s love for us.

In 1 John 4:8b,16b, we read, “God is love.” Let us read some of the other “love” verses in 1 John 4 KJV:

“9 In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.
10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another….
19 We love him, because he first loved us.”

How did God commend His love for us? By sending His Son, Jesus Christ.  Everyone is familiar with John 3:16—“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Did they ever read 1 John 3:16? “Hereby we perceive the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.” (By the way, for those who encourage us to remove the King James’ italicized words, I think they would agree that the italicized clause “of God” should be left intact here!) The issue is not how much we love God, but rather how much He loves us! God first loved us, and in Jesus Christ, He has given us the capacity to love Him in return.

The word “love” (or its forms “loved,” “loveth,” “beloved,” et cetera) appears some 640 times in the King James Bible. “Love” first appears in the Bible in Genesis 22:2, when the LORD commands Abraham, “Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of.” Abraham offering his “only begotten son” on Mount Moriah (Hebrews 11:17) is a preview/type of what God the Father would do 2,000 years later when He would offer up His “only begotten Son” on Mount Calvary (John 1:18)!

Earlier, in 1 John 4:8, we read, “God is love.” Love is the very nature of God. True love originated from God: God is the source of true, unfeigned (genuine), pure love. For instance, in Matthew 3:17, God the Father says that Jesus Christ is His “beloved Son, in whom He is well pleased” (cf. Matthew 17:5; Mark 1:11; Mark 9:7; Luke 3:22; Luke 9:35). John 3:35 says, “The Father loveth the Son” (cf. John 5:20; John 10:17; John 15:9). John 14:31 says that Jesus Christ “loved the Father.” In John 15:9, Jesus told His apostles that He loved them just as His Father loved Him. How much did God the Father love Jesus Christ? As much as Jesus Christ loved His disciples! And just how much did Jesus Christ love His disciples? Jesus explained in verse 13, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” Jesus loved His friends, the nation Israel, so much that He eventually died for them (see Matthew 20:28). For their sakes, He was willing to give all that He had! Although we will discuss it later, this is what Paul meant when he wrote of “being spent for others” (2 Corinthians 12:15).

By dying on behalf of His friends, Jesus was demonstrating the love that He and His heavenly Father shared. In John 17:23, Jesus prayed to His Father: “[Thou] hast loved them [His disciples], as thou hast loved me.” The Father loved His friends so much that He was willing to give up His Son for them! In verse 24c, Jesus continues praying, “for thou [Father] lovedst me before the foundation of the world.” The Son was willing to give up His life because He loved the Father, and the Father was willing to give up His Son because He loved Israel!

Moreover, when we come to the ministry of the Apostle Paul, we learn that Christ Jesus did not just die for His friends, Israel (the “many” of Matthew 20:28), but that He died for the entire world, His enemies, the Gentiles! Romans 5:8-10 KJV explains:

“8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.
10 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.”

In 1 Timothy 2:6, we read that Jesus Christ “gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.” Until the ministry of Paul, God was only offering salvation to Israel. Today, in our dispensation, Paul declares the Gospel of the Grace of God: it was the love of God for all of mankind that sent Jesus Christ to Calvary, and it was the love God the Son (Jesus Christ) had for His Father that sent Him to Calvary.  Again, this is the Bible’s definition of love—willing to be spent for others (and this attitude will result in charity, an action that proves that love). That Gospel of the Grace of God declares that Christ Jesus died for our sins, the wretched people that we are, shed His innocent blood for us, the guilty sinners, and that He was buried to put away our sin and sins, and that He was raised again the third day to give us His life when we trust Him alone as our personal Saviour (1 Corinthians 15:1-4)! Friends, God’s love for us could not be any clearer.

 

THE LOVE OF CHRIST CONSTRAINETH US

In 2 Corinthians 5:14, we read: “For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead.” Our Christian lives are not driven by our love for God; they are propelled by God’s love for us! It is God’s love working in us… it is the love of Christ!  Romans 8:37 speaks of “him [Jesus Christ] that loved us.” Now, we move come to the issue of “charity.”

CHARITY DEFINED AND EXPLAINED

“Charity” appears 28 times in the King James Bible (unfortunately, modern Bibles omit the word “charity” and replace it with “love”). The first time “charity” appears in the King James is 1 Corinthians 8:1: “…Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth.”“Charity edifieth”—it builds up and strengthens. But, what is charity? A simple definition of charity is “the outward working of love; love in deed.” In 1 Thessalonians 1:3, charity is referred to as the “labour of love”—the love of God working in us, causing our Christian service to reflect that love (helping others, caring for others, seeking the best interest of others, and so on).

The Apostle Paul defined charity in 2 Corinthians 12:15: “And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved.” Paul was willing to “gladly spend and be spent” for the Corinthians—he sought their highest good, even if it meant a loss for him. As we discussed earlier, remember that this was the same love of God that operated in Jesus Christ when He went to Calvary’s cross for us.

Human nature is selfish. Naturally, we only think about ourselves: “How can I benefit from this? What can I get?” According to the Bible, this is the antithesis of love and charity. Love causes you to think of others, while charity causes you to do for others. That is, God’s love causes us to focus on how others can benefit from a situation, while charity is the outworking of love to bring about an action that will benefit others.

Now, here is where we can use 1 Corinthians 13, the Bible’s great charity chapter. The Corinthian believers were abusing spiritual gifts (see 1 Corinthians 12:1 and 14:1), especially the gift of tongues (see 1 Corinthians chapter 14). Thus, the context of 1 Corinthians 13 is spiritual gifts. These believers were using spiritual gifts to draw attention to themselves, so Paul wrote, “He that speaketh in an unknown tongue [gibberish] edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church” (1 Corinthians 14:4). Corinth was fixated on emotional upheavals and experiences (today’s charismatic movement). The assembling of the saints at Corinth was nothing more than a circus act that caused the lost world to sneer and blaspheme God (1 Corinthians 14:9,23,40, et al.). It made a mockery of Christian service and grace living.

The Holy Spirit through Paul wrote 1 Corinthians chapter 13 in order to show the Corinthians that love led the Christian to use his spiritual gift for others’ benefit, not for his benefit. By looking at the outward working of love (charity), we see what God’s love really is all about. According to 1 Corinthians chapter 13:

  • verse 4 – “charity suffereth long” (God’s love is longsuffering and patient)
  • verse 4 – “charity is kind” (God does not want you to serve Him in fear; compare 1 John 4:18)
  • verse 4 – “charity envieth not” (God’s love does not covet)
  • verse 4 – “charity vaunteth not itself” (God’s love is not boastful)
  • verse 4 – “charity is not puffed up” (God’s love is not prideful or arrogant)
  • verse 5 – “charity doth not behave itself unseemly” (God’s love does not act inappropriately or unruly)
  • verse 5 – “charity seeketh not her own” (God’s love is not selfish)
  • verse 5 – “charity is not easily provoked” (God’s love is patient)
  • verse 5 – “charity thinketh no evil” (God’s love is not quick to falsely accuse)
  • verse 6 – “charity rejoiceth not in iniquity” (God’s love hates evil)
  • verse 6 – “charity rejoiceth in the truth” (God’s love promotes and encourages the Truth, His Word; John 17:17)
  • verses 7 & 8 – “Charity beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity never faileth….” (God’s love cannot be hindered, God’s love can endure anything, and God’s love is reliable and trustworthy—God’s love will NEVER EVER fail, and Calvary is all the proof you need of that!) 🙂

Romans 12:10 describes our Christian service: “Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;” Again, “preferring one another” is love—seeking the other person’s highest good, putting them ahead of yourself, even if it means you must sacrifice something (time, energy, resources, and so on). This is what Paul meant in 1 Corinthians 10:24 when he wrote, “Let no man seek his own, but every man another’s wealth.”

The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 6:6 that the “love unfeigned” (the love of God working in them) drove Paul and his coworkers in the ministry to continue in their Christian service, despite the hardships, so that others would benefit from their ministry work.

Philippians 2:3-4 further explains love and charity, “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.” And then Paul provides an example of someone who had this mental attitude—JESUS CHRIST (verses 5-11)!

In Romans 13:8-10, God through Paul instructs Christians, “love one another… therefore love is the the fulfilling of the law.” When we let the love of Christ constrain us—us letting Christ in us love the person—we will fulfill the law in our Christian service! If we Christians allow the Holy Spirit work in us, we will not steal, kill, covet, lie, or commit adultery. Again, we will be seeking the other person’s highest good. Our lives will be filled with the love of God, and others will see it, bringing praise and glory to the Lord Jesus Christ, whose love they see operating in us!

 

CONCLUSION

Love, as defined by the Bible, is putting others ahead of yourself. To seek their highest good, even if it means we have to forfeit something (time, energy, resources, and so on). God’s love for them will result in charity, God’s love motivating you to serve them. Now, please understand that God NEVER expects us to be doormats, and we are NOT to let someone take advantage of us. The grace of God teaches us that if God’s love sent Jesus Christ to Calvary’s cross to die for our sins, so we could be saved, then we should allow the indwelling Holy Spirit to cause God’s love to work in us, to “constrain” us, to push us forward, so that we can tell others about that love and we can let Him live His life in us for His glory by having lives filled with charity. Then, God them His love He has for them by using our lips and our lives… so that we can demonstrate “God is love!”

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Posted by Christian ambassador (Shawn Brasseaux)

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