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Do We Attain God’s RIGHT STANDARD of Living? 

Without standards, the everyday life we know would not work. Standards are necessary to ensure safety, dependability, and interoperability; from tech gadgets to office and household items to services that fuel the global economy. Without internationally accepted standards, there would be no confidence in the global supply chain of goods and services that most of us readily take for granted.  The modern interconnected world would face significant challenges in maintaining consistent quality and safety of goods and services without maintaining stringent standards. 

Experts develop international standards from all over the world through a balanced, open, and transparent process. Trust is at the heart of this work, which results in practical solutions to real problems and issues.  “For almost 70 years, ISO has produced voluntary consensus-based standards that have driven industrial progress, spurred global commerce, and improved health, safety, and the environment,” says Acting ISO Secretary-General Kevin McKinley.  

Standards are not a product of modernity; the Bible is a book of divine standards of righteousness that, when we attain, leads to eternal life, or when we fail, eternal death and punishment.    

The Righteousness Standard

Jesus emphasized the importance of righteousness and warned people of falling short of God’s standard. Here are some New Testament scripture references: 

  • Matthew 5:20: “For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.”
  • Matthew 5:48: “Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.”
  • Matthew 7:21-23: “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!'”

Fake and Hidden Non-Compliance 

These scriptures highlight Jesus’ call for genuine righteousness, which goes beyond mere external actions and touches the heart and motives of individuals. He urges people to align their lives with God’s standard of righteousness and not be self-righteous or hypocritical.

The biblical concept of righteousness serves as a spiritual standard, urging people to pursue holiness, justice, and ethical conduct in their lives. Just as international standards promote trust and dependability in the global supply chain, Jesus calls His followers to embrace God’s standard of righteousness, which brings forth spiritual assurance and eternal significance.


IMMANENT ETERNAL JUDGEMENT:

Based upon Jesus’ three parables in Mat. 25:1-44. These should be read and understood as one story or sermon.  

Five Foolish Virgins

The first standard for our current spiritual focus lies upon Jesus’ parable of the ten virgins or bridesmaids who were not ready with oil in their lamps.  The story’s purpose is simply to state how idiotic the foolish virgins were.  To plan ahead is the most obvious thing to do, like putting petrol in your car before a long journey.  These girls were not prepared at all, yet they thought they could depend on a “free ride” – to lean on the kindness of the wise virgins.  

The wisdom of the wise virgins gave them enough sense to be intentional about the future and be good stewards of their own oil. Their life-focus was being wise about an end-time strategy. With the foolish having to take responsibility to buy their own oil, they missed the timing of the Lord – the doors of the wedding banquet were closed: “Lord, Lord, open to us!’ But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.’ “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.

Some people think they can get to heaven with religion, self-righteousness, or just “going along”!  They have no first-hand inner preparedness, being filled with the Holy Spirit and His righteousness.  

Three Servants and Their Talents

Jesus explains this preparedness in the next story.  A master gave three servants his goods and expected them to be fruitful and entrepreneurial with what they received, each according to their ability.   

The ones who increased what they had received were blessed, but the ones who hid their talent (even faithfully), did nothing and consequently were condemned: “‘You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed. So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest. So take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents.  For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away. And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’” (Mat 25:26-30)  

The point is made clear: God wants us to be fruitful in His righteousness and produce more than what we have received. Thus, no spectators here! Again, first-hand empowered believers who produce after our Lord’s example. 

The Sheep and Goats

All vagueness and mystery are removed by the last story. Here Jesus explains in practical detail what righteousness or right acts He expects from us.  

The difference between the sheep and the goats is: “I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.” (Mat 25:25-36).

The people who used His righteousness to do right, was blessed! “…these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” (Mat 25:44)  

Receiving Christ’s Righteousness by Faith 

With reference to Romans 3:22 and Ephesians 2:8-9:

Amidst the warnings, Jesus offers a profound invitation: the “gift of righteousness through faith”. Romans 3:22 reminds us that the righteousness of God is available to all who believe in Jesus Christ. We cannot earn this righteousness through our works, but it is a gift of grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).

When we receive Christ’s righteousness, His perfect standard covers our imperfections and enables us to stand blameless before God.

3 Standards of Righteousness

a) The Church: The community of believers plays a crucial role in helping us uphold Christ’s standard. A healthy church provides accountability, encouragement, and growth in our faith.

Are we actively involved in a Christ-centered community that challenges us to live out His righteousness daily?

b) The Bible: The Word of God is the ultimate standard of truth. Regularly immersing ourselves in the Scriptures allows us to align our lives with God’s will and discover His righteous standard.

Are we faithfully studying the Bible and applying its principles to our lives?

c) The Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit indwells believers, guiding and empowering us to live according to Christ’s standard. He convicts us of sin, leads us into truth, and produces the fruit of righteousness in our lives.

Are we walking in step with the Spirit, relying on His guidance to shape our character?

Conclusion:

  • Receiving the righteous standard of Christ is of utmost importance in our Christian walk.
  • Jesus’ warnings remind us of the seriousness of living according to His will.
  • Yet, His invitation to receive righteousness by faith fills us with hope and assurance.
  • As we test ourselves through the Church, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit, let us remember that Christ’s righteousness enables us to live transformed lives, bringing glory to God and shining His light in a dark world.

May we embrace His standard wholeheartedly, seeking to walk in obedience and love, and finding our ultimate fulfillment in the righteousness bestowed upon us by our Savior, Jesus Christ.

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Abide & walk in the Spirit – The only way to sustain life in triumph & victory.

Lord, you want to partner with us. Our prayers, Your answers. Our works, Your grace. Our possessions, Your blessing. Our obedience, Your call. Our weakness, Your strength. This is a great mystery. Please help us to make this sacred partnership more seamless and flowing, more reciprocal, intimate and natural.

In the same way, Jesus could do nothing without the Father, we also can do nothing without the Holy Spirit. Jesus could do nothing without seeing the Father do it (John 5:19-20, 30), He only did the Father’s will (John 6:38), only did what the Father taught (John 8:28), according to what the Father commands (John 12:49). In order for us to live and move by the way of the Spirit, or as the apostle Paul put it: “Walk in the Spirit” (Gal. 5:16), we must learn to be holy – devoted to and depending on the Holy Spirit. We literally can do nothing without Him! Jesus exemplified total reliance on the Father, we should learn from Him and become totally reliant on the Holy Spirit.
In the OT, people lived by the Law. In the NT, believers live by the Holy Spirit.
It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies (Zech 4:6).

ALL LIFE IN THE NEW TESTAMENT IS BY THE SPIRIT

Know God by the Spirit: No one can know a person’s thoughts except that person’s own spirit, and no one can know God’s thoughts except God’s own Spirit(1 Cor 2:11).
Walk according to the Spirit and do not gratify the desires of the flesh. It is the power of the Spirit life that free you from the gravitational downward pull of the flesh and sin (Rom 8:2-4; Gal 5:16). A new power is in operation. The Spirit of life in Christ, like a strong wind, has magnificently cleared the air, freeing you from a fated lifetime of brutal tyranny at the hands of sin and death (Rom 8:2; The Message).
Set your mind on the things of the Spirit (Rom 8:5-8).
Put to death the deeds of the body by the Spirit (Rom 8:13).
The main characteristic of being a child of God is being led by the Spirit (Rom 8:14).
Know the Fatherhood of God and subsequent ‘sonship’ by the Spirit (Rom 8:15-17).
Hope in the Spirit (Rom 8:23-25).
Pray in the Spirit (Rom 8:26-27). In other passages Paul mentions— (Jude 20)
Be filled with the Spirit (Eph 5:18).
Serve in the Spirit (Rom 7:6; 15:16).
Love by the Spirit (Rom 15:30; Gal 5:22-23; Col 1:8).
Know one another by the Spirit. The way of the Spirit is more accurate and also quicker! Jesus knew the heart of Nathaniel even before He had met him (John 1:47). Similarly, the Lord revealed to Ananias not only the change in Saul (Paul), but also his destiny – before he met him (Acts 9:10). Phillip was divinely led to meet the servant of the court of Ethiopia (Acts 8:26). Jesus knew what was in the Pharisees’ hearts. He knew the woman at the well in the Spirit (John 4). Imagine a church where people know each other in the Spirit, where everyone knows their place and function, and they work together naturally without complaining and strife because they do not feel threatened by one another.
We are taught by that what the Holy Spirit teaches (1 John 2:27; 1 Cor 1:13).
People err when they try to interpret the Bible without the Spirit (2 Cor 3:6).
We can only know God by the Spirit because He is Spirit (1 Cor 2:10-12).
We cannot be regenerated and born again without the work of the Spirit (Tit 3:5).
The Eternal Spirit, through the Blood of Christ, cleanse you from an evil conscience (Heb 9:14).
Help me to walk, live and have my being in the Spirit alone. Let me be able to say like Jesus: I do nothing unless the Spirit, I say nothing unless the Spiritguides and instruct me.

ABIDING IN THE SPIRIT

It is only in the Spirit that we are safe. It is only in the Spirit that we cannot be deceived and misled (1 John 4:1; John 16:13). He will defend words and deeds done in the Spirit (1 Cor 2:13). In the Spirit we are accurate. In the Spirit we are holy and perfect (John 17:17). In the Spirit we are righteous. In the Spirit we will know the way in the Holy of Holies (Heb 9:8). In the Spirit there is liberty (2 Cor 3:17). In the Spirit we are whole and able to speak the whole gospel. In the Spirit we have access to all things: gifts of the Spirit (1 Cor 12:7-10) and fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:21-22). In the Spirit we are seated in heavenly places and will have authority (Eph 2:6). In the Spirit we know all things and intentions of the heart (1 Cor 2:10). In the Spirit we will know how to rightly discern and speak the truth. In the Spirit, the dead are made alive! It is by the Spirit that we are unified and become one like the God-head. It is by the Spirit that we are convicted, regenerated, filled, sanctified, justified and glorified. We have no life, existence nor substance outside of the Spirit. All spiritual life is by definition in the Spirit.
Life in the Spirit is a decision. It is a conscious, intentional and awakening partnership.  The Holy Spirit does not possess a person.  We need to learn to yield to Him, He is not an overpowering control. Being in the spirit is an awakening, not an unconscious, senseless, paralysed, cold, inert, insensate, insensible, lethargic, numb, passed out, stupefied, tranced state of being. Those are characteristics of being possessed by demons. Satan makes you like a zombie!
The Spirit gives life and unlocks supernatural inert abilities that God has already birthed in us. By the Spirit, we are united in the divine!

WE MISS OUT ON THE SPIRIT-LIFE BECAUSE OF:

Self: ego, pride, insecurities, flesh. The way of carnality and fleshly thinking is enmity to the Spirit (Rom 8:5). There is no middle ground, no compromise.
The Holy Spirit is Jesus who walks in our streets today. He is a Person. He does the same work that Jesus has come to do (John 14:15).
The people treat Him the same way they treated Jesus. Who crucified Jesus? The religious and so-called clergy of that time. The Holy Spirit wants to work through us. He wants to use us and let His gifts work through us and lead us to the Father. He wants to reveal Christ to us so that He will become a reality in our lives. He wants to make us His disciples. He wants to lead us into deeper dimensions in the Spirit.

HOW WE RESIST THE SPIRIT

Isaiah 63:10 But they rebelled, and grieved his Holy Spirit.
Asab: A verb meaning to hurt, to pain, grieve, to shape to fashion.
Through our own experiences, and culture we have formed a shape and an image of God, a construct in our minds, without having a face to face reality of His person. Rebellion is holding on to that construct, even when the real appears. Some people prefer the god of their own making, than the awesome fearful wonder of the true Creator God.
Matthew 12: 31-32 Therefore I say unto you, every sin and blasphemy shall men be forgiven; but the blasphemy against the Spirit shall not be forgiven of men. 32 And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him; But whosoever speaketh against the Holy Spirit, it shall not be forgiven him in this age, nor in the coming.
blasphēmía: Blasphemy, verbal abuse against someone which denotes the very worst type of slander mentioned in Matthew 15:19 with false witnesses; wounding someone’s reputation by evil reports, evil speaking.
By reading the context of this portion of scripture in its entirety, we will gain understanding by allowing scripture to speak for Himself.  Jesus healed a demonic blind, mute man. (v22) The people (multitude) were clearly amazed and were contemplating whether this could be the son of David the Messiah. (v23) The Pharisees were losing ground, how do they explain this? How do you defend you standpoint, after seeing such a powerful demonstration? They countered by saying Jesus did this miracle by the power of satan. Specifically that He was possessed by Beelsebub. (Mar 3:22) And Jesus disclose the reason for His stern warning at the end of the passage. “because they said, “He has an unclean spirit.” (Mar 3:30) Finally Jesus declares: “But if I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, surely the kingdom of God has come upon you.” (Mat 12:28) It is thus very clear that their attack was against the Holy Spirit, and therefor the very stern/fearful warning: “but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is subject to eternal condemnation” Why? There can be no salvation or repentance without the Holy Spirit. (1 Cor 12:3; 2 Cor 7:9; John 16:8)
Acts 5:3, 9 Then Peter said, Ananias, why did Satan fulfil your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep the price of the land? Then Peter said to her, Why did you agree to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? Behold, the feet of those who bury your man are at the door, and they will carry you out.
pseúdomai; fut. pseúsomai, mid. deponent of pseúdō (n.f.), to cheat, defraud, falsify. To lie, to speak falsely or deceitfully.
By God’s grace this never happened again, else more people will fall dead in churches all over the world. Many by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit make commitments and declarations publicly, to reverse, procrastinate, and never comply.  We sometimes forget the Holy Spirit is God.  He is in no way inferior, or less powerful than God almighty. He is fully God, like Jesus, and the Father! The way He reveals God’s nature is predominantly as a dove, being gentle, and not forceful. However, we should revere and acknowledge His person with holy fear.
Acts 7:51 You stubborn and uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit; just as your fathers, so also you.
antipíptō; fut. antipesoúmai, from antí (G0473), against, and píptō (G4098), to fall. To fall or rush against or upon in a hostile manner, assault, resist by force and violence, fall or strive against (Acts 7:51).
Stephen the martyr, was addressing a generation, a culture, a system of revolt against God. We see this clearly through History, how the power and demonstration of the Holy Spirit can be suppressed, stifled and openly resisted. The tone of the words used in the accusation is violent and shows the open revolt of a culture against God.  The power of culture should never be underestimated. Many people who have come to the truth, have experienced the pain and suffering of families turning against them, being ostracized, persecuted and isolated.  To the point that they were willing to kill someone like Stephan, who only did good, publicly.
Acts 8: 18-22 And when Simon saw that by the laying of the apostles the Holy Ghost was given, he offered their money19 And said, Give me this power also, that whosoever shall lay my hands upon the Holy Ghost can receive. 20 But Peter said to him, Let your money go away with you, because you thought to receive the gift of God through money. 21 You have no part or fate in this matter, because your heart is not rightbefore God. 22 Repent therefore of this evilfrom you, and pray to God, whether the mind of your heartmay be forgiven you.
Some people are totally against spiritual things, then there are others who seek the power of the supernatural for personal gain.  It is interesting to see the words used: heart not right, evil heart, mind of your heart. This shows that Simon needed salvation. He had to repent, and tern form his wickedness.
1 Thessalonians 5:19 Do not quench the Spirit.
Sbénnumi: To quench, extinguish.
Oh, have we not all been guilty of extinguishing the small still voice of the Holy Spirit! You feel uncomfortable about going with friends, or about a TV program, or certain company, yet we ignore the prompting of the Spirit, and persist most often to our own detriment.  May we become more alert, and sensitive to adhere the small nudges of the Holy Spirit. The more obedient you become to His voice, the more you will hear and discern His voice.
Ephesians 4:30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.
lupéṓ̄: to grieve, afflict with sorrow; to be grieved, sad, sorrowful, to offend.
Most Christians are more scared and sensitive not to offend man, than God.  We will go out of our way to not offend man, but think it nothing to offend God, knowing His will.  The more we do this, the weaker the voice of the Spirit becomes in your heart.  God can never be offended and thankfully He takes no offence.  May we see His heart! May we really feel what He feels! May the Holy Spirit reveal His heart to us, so that like Mary Magdelene we see the suffering Christ, soon to be crucified, and pour our love on Him. (John 12)

BEING IN THE SPIRIT DOES NOT MEAN YOU ISOLATE YOURSELF

Being most connected and in tune, in the Spirit, enables you to connect on a higher level with people, and being really present in their deep hidden needs, wants, desires and motives.
Be connected in the Spirit first, then He will connect you with man, but on a higher level, so that you can pull them up and not be pulled down by man’s devices.
Being in the Spirit does not disconnect you with man to become ascetic, it connects you to man on a deeper, divine, spiritual level. People are most carnal and do not understand the ways of the Spirit. It is foolishness and strange to them. There are very few people who live and abide in the Spirit. Life in the Spirit is like living by the natural law of helium, but the way of carnality – by contrast – cannot escape the natural law of gravity. Therefore, people who do not live in the Spiritwill always pull you down. They do not even realise it, but that’s what they do.

THE SPIRIT AND THE WORD

The WORD and the Spirit is One. The Sword of the Spirit is the Word (Eph 6:17).
It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life(John 6:63).
The language of the Spirit is the Word of God. Every single word we speak in the Spirit is based and founded on Scripture. It is like someone who has memorised all of Scripture and has understanding and insight into the whole of Scripture. Your spiritual vocabulary is Word-based. They only speak from the Word (Josh 1:8). The Spirit gives life to the Word. By the Spirit, the Word becomes flesh in us.
You cannot be like Jesus without the Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit who resurrects, reveals and manifests Christ in us. Only the Spirit reveals Jesus in us.
It is simply not in man to be like Christ, any human attempt is of the spirit of the anti-christ.
The way of the Spirit is holy and sacred. Life in the Spirit is holy, consecrated, sanctified, precise, accurate, on the mark – Jesus.
The only way to be sinless, is to be in the Spirit. It is He who works it in us and draws us closer into a more holy consecrated lifestyle.

WE CAN EVEN WORK IN THE SPIRIT

Oh God, may we walk in the Spirit continually! Help us to remain and abide in the Spirit. Help us to find our complete habitation in the Holy Spirit. Work done in the Spirit is worship and glorifies God. Work can be done in the Spirit, for daily labour is not ungodly, secular nor sinful (Ex 31:3, 5; 35:31). Work is part of our creational purpose – to subdue and multiply (Gen 1:28). When we work by the Spirit it will not be laborious, but innovative, precise and intentional. In the Spirit, you will be able to focus and accomplish what you set out to do. Your work will be a blessing! Your work will be a sermon, an extension of His grace and character in you. Your work will reveal God in the same way His creation reveals Him. Your work will be excellent and spectacular, creative and rich in precise detail and order.
Believers being in the Spirithave created many new inventions.
Work done in the Spirit makes this world better because it resonates and reflects heaven! (Matt 6:10)
When living in the Spirit, our constant focus and attention are on His ability, not ours. His strength, power, fruit, gifts, testimony and riches. We are dead to our capabilities, efforts, methods, trying and achievements. Our confidence is in Him. Our default is Christ. We have died to self, our dreams and ambitions. We have died to our mistakes, failures, inabilities and incompetence. The life we now live, we live in the Son, by the Spirit.  It is the Spirit that enables.

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The only way to live life as NT believer is in the Spirit. Why? How?

Lord, you want to partner with us. Our prayers, Your answers. Our works, Your grace. Our possessions, Your blessing. Our obedience, Your call. Our weakness, Your strength. This is a great mystery. Please help us to make this sacred partnership more seamless and flowing, more reciprocal, intimate and natural.

In the same way, Jesus could do nothing without the Father, we also can do nothing without the Holy Spirit. Jesus could do nothing without seeing the Father do it (John 5:19-20, 30), He only did the Father’s will (John 6:38), only did what the Father taught (John 8:28), according to what the Father commands (John 12:49). In order for us to live and move by the way of the Spirit, or as the apostle Paul put it: “Walk in the Spirit” (Gal. 5:16), we must learn to be holy – devoted to and depending on the Holy Spirit. We literally can do nothing without Him! Jesus exemplified total reliance on the Father, we should learn from Him and become totally reliant on the Holy Spirit.

In the OT, people lived by the Law. In the NT, believers live by the Holy Spirit.

It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies(Zech 4:6).

ALL LIFE IN THE NEW TESTAMENTIS BY THE SPIRIT

Know God by the Spirit: No one can know a person’s thoughts except that person’s own spirit, and no one can know God’s thoughts except God’s own Spirit(1 Cor 2:11).

Walk according to the Spirit and do not gratify the desires of the flesh. It is the power of the Spirit life that free you from the gravitational downward pull of the flesh and sin (Rom 8:2-4; Gal 5:16). A new power is in operation. The Spirit of life in Christ, like a strong wind, has magnificently cleared the air, freeing you from a fated lifetime of brutal tyranny at the hands of sin and death(Rom 8:2; The Message).

Set your mind on the things of the Spirit (Rom 8:5-8).

Put to death the deeds of the body by the Spirit (Rom 8:13).

The main characteristic of being a child of God is being led by the Spirit (Rom 8:14).

Know the Fatherhood of God and subsequent ‘sonship’ by the Spirit (Rom 8:15-17).

Hope in the Spirit (Rom 8:23-25).

Pray in the Spirit (Rom 8:26-27). In other passages Paul mentions— (Jude 20)

Be filled with the Spirit (Eph 5:18).

Serve in the Spirit (Rom 7:6; 15:16).

Love by the Spirit (Rom 15:30; Gal 5:22-23; Col 1:8).

Know one another by the Spirit. The way of the Spirit is more accurate and also quicker! Jesus knew the heart of Nathaniel even before He had met him (John 1:47). Similarly, the Lord revealed to Ananias not only the change in Saul (Paul), but also his destiny – before he met him (Acts 9:10). Phillip was divinely led to meet the servant of the court of Ethiopia (Acts 8:26). Jesus knew what was in the Pharisees’ hearts. He knew the woman at the well in the Spirit (John 4). Imagine a church where people know each other in the Spirit, where everyone knows their place and function, and they work together naturally without complaining and strife because they do not feel threatened by one another.

We are taught by that what the Holy Spirit teaches (1 John 2:27; 1 Cor 1:13).

People err when they try to interpret the Bible without the Spirit (2 Cor 3:6).

We can only know God by the Spirit because He is Spirit (1 Cor 2:10-12).

We cannot be regenerated and born again without the work of the Spirit (Tit 3:5).

The Eternal Spirit, through the Blood of Christ, cleanse you from an evil conscience (Heb 9:14).

Help me to walk, live and have my being in the Spirit alone. Let me be able to say like Jesus: I do nothing unless the Spirit, I say nothing unless the Spiritguides and instruct me.

ABIDING IN THE SPIRIT

It is only in the Spirit that we are safe. It is only in the Spirit that we cannot be deceived and misled (1 John 4:1; John 16:13). He will defend words and deeds done in the Spirit (1 Cor 2:13). In the Spirit we are accurate. In the Spirit we are holy and perfect (John 17:17). In the Spirit we are righteous. In the Spirit we will know the way in the Holy of Holies (Heb 9:8). In the Spirit there is liberty (2 Cor 3:17). In the Spirit we are whole and able to speak the whole gospel. In the Spirit we have access to all things: gifts of the Spirit (1 Cor 12:7-10) and fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:21-22). In the Spirit we are seated in heavenly places and will have authority (Eph 2:6). In the Spirit we know all things and intentions of the heart (1 Cor 2:10). In the Spirit we will know how to rightly discern and speak the truth. In the Spirit, the dead are made alive! It is by the Spirit that we are unified and become one like the God-head. It is by the Spirit that we are convicted, regenerated, filled, sanctified, justified and glorified. We have no life, existence nor substance outside of the Spirit. All spiritual life is by definition in the Spirit.

Life in the Spirit is a decision. It is a conscious, intentional and awakening partnership.  The Holy Spirit does not possess a person.  We need to learn to yield to Him, He is not an overpowering control. Being in the spirit is an awakening, not an unconscious, senseless, paralysed, cold, inert, insensate, insensible, lethargic, numb, passed out, stupefied, tranced state of being. Those are characteristics of being possessed by demons. Satan makes you like a zombie!

The Spirit gives life and unlocks supernatural inert abilities that God has already birthed in us. By the Spirit, we are united in the divine!

WE MISS OUT ON THE SPIRIT-LIFE BECAUSE OF:

Self: ego, pride, insecurities, flesh. The way of carnality and fleshly thinking is enmity to the Spirit (Rom 8:5). There is no middle ground, no compromise.

The Holy Spirit is Jesus who walks in our streets today. He is a Person. He does the same work that Jesus has come to do (John 14:15).

The people treat Him the same way they treated Jesus. Who crucified Jesus? The religious and so-called clergy of that time. The Holy Spirit wants to work through us. He wants to use us and let His gifts work through us and lead us to the Father. He wants to reveal Christ to us so that He will become a reality in our lives. He wants to make us His disciples. He wants to lead us into deeper dimensions in the Spirit.

HOW WE RESIST THE SPIRIT

Isaiah 63:10 But they rebelled, and grieved his Holy Spirit.

Asab: A verb meaning to hurt, to pain, grieve, to shape to fashion.

Through our own experiences, and culture we have formed a shape and an image of God, a construct in our minds, without having a face to face reality of His person. Rebellion is holding on to that construct, even when the real appears. Some people prefer the god of their own making, than the awesome fearful wonder of the true Creator God.

 

Matthew 12: 31-32 Therefore I say unto you, every sin and blasphemy shall men be forgiven; but the blasphemy against the Spirit shall not be forgiven of men. 32 And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him; But whosoever speaketh against the Holy Spirit, it shall not be forgiven him in this age, nor in the coming.

blasphēmía: Blasphemy, verbal abuse against someone which denotes the very worst type of slander mentioned in Matthew 15:19 with false witnesses; wounding someone’s reputation by evil reports, evil speaking.

By reading the context of this portion of scripture in its entirety, we will gain understanding by allowing scripture to speak for Himself.  Jesus healed a demonic blind, mute man. (v22) The people (multitude) were clearly amazed and were contemplating whether this could be the son of David the Messiah. (v23) The Pharisees were losing ground, how do they explain this? How do you defend you standpoint, after seeing such a powerful demonstration? They countered by saying Jesus did this miracle by the power of satan. Specifically that He was possessed by Beelsebub. (Mar 3:22) And Jesus disclose the reason for His stern warning at the end of the passage. “because they said, “He has an unclean spirit.” (Mar 3:30) Finally Jesus declares: “But if I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, surely the kingdom of God has come upon you.” (Mat 12:28) It is thus very clear that their attack was against the Holy Spirit, and therefor the very stern/fearful warning: “but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is subject to eternal condemnation” Why? There can be no salvation or repentance without the Holy Spirit. (1 Cor 12:3; 2 Cor 7:9; John 16:8)

 

Acts 5:3, 9 Then Peter said, Ananias, why did Satan fulfil your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep the price of the land? Then Peter said to her, Why did you agree to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? Behold, the feet of those who bury your man are at the door, and they will carry you out.

pseúdomai; fut. pseúsomai, mid. deponent of pseúdō (n.f.), to cheat, defraud, falsify. To lie, to speak falsely or deceitfully.

By God’s grace this never happened again, else more people will fall dead in churches all over the world. Many by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit make commitments and declarations publicly, to reverse, procrastinate, and never comply.  We sometimes forget the Holy Spirit is God.  He is in no way inferior, or less powerful than God almighty. He is fully God, like Jesus, and the Father! The way He reveals God’s nature is predominantly as a dove, being gentle, and not forceful. However, we should revere and acknowledge His person with holy fear.

 

Acts 7:51 You stubborn and uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit; just as your fathers, so also you.

antipíptō; fut. antipesoúmai, from antí (G0473), against, and píptō (G4098), to fall. To fall or rush against or upon in a hostile manner, assault, resist by force and violence, fall or strive against (Acts 7:51).

Stephen the martyr, was addressing a generation, a culture, a system of revolt against God. We see this clearly through History, how the power and demonstration of the Holy Spirit can be suppressed, stifled and openly resisted. The tone of the words used in the accusation is violent and shows the open revolt of a culture against God.  The power of culture should never be underestimated. Many people who have come to the truth, have experienced the pain and suffering of families turning against them, being ostracized, persecuted and isolated.  To the point that they were willing to kill someone like Stephan, who only did good, publicly.

 

Acts 8: 18-22 And when Simon saw that by the laying of the apostles the Holy Ghost was given, he offered their money19 And said, Give me this power also, that whosoever shall lay my hands upon the Holy Ghost can receive. 20 But Peter said to him, Let your money go away with you, because you thought to receive the gift of God through money. 21 You have no part or fate in this matter, because your heart is not rightbefore God. 22 Repent therefore of this evilfrom you, and pray to God, whether the mind of your heartmay be forgiven you.

Some people are totally against spiritual things, then there are others who seek the power of the supernatural for personal gain.  It is interesting to see the words used: heart not right, evil heart, mind of your heart. This shows that Simon needed salvation. He had to repent, and tern form his wickedness.

 

1 Thessalonians 5:19 Do not quench the Spirit.

Sbénnumi: To quench, extinguish.

Oh, have we not all been guilty of extinguishing the small still voice of the Holy Spirit! You feel uncomfortable about going with friends, or about a TV program, or certain company, yet we ignore the prompting of the Spirit, and persist most often to our own detriment.  May we become more alert, and sensitive to adhere the small nudges of the Holy Spirit. The more obedient you become to His voice, the more you will hear and discern His voice.

 

Ephesians 4:30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.

lupéṓ̄: to grieve, afflict with sorrow; to be grieved, sad, sorrowful, to offend.

Most Christians are more scared and sensitive not to offend man, than God.  We will go out of our way to not offend man, but think it nothing to offend God, knowing His will.  The more we do this, the weaker the voice of the Spirit becomes in your heart.  God can never be offended and thankfully He takes no offence.  May we see His heart! May we really feel what He feels! May the Holy Spirit reveal His heart to us, so that like Mary Magdelene we see the suffering Christ, soon to be crucified, and pour our love on Him. (John 12)

BEING IN THE SPIRIT DOES NOT MEAN YOU ISOLATE YOURSELF

Being most connected and in tune, in the Spirit, enables you to connect on a higher level with people, and being really present in their deep hidden needs, wants, desires and motives.

Be connected in the Spirit first, then He will connect you with man, but on a higher level, so that you can pull them up and not be pulled down by man’s devices.

Being in the Spirit does not disconnect you with man to become ascetic, it connects you to man on a deeper, divine, spiritual level. People are most carnal and do not understand the ways of the Spirit. It is foolishness and strange to them. There are very few people who live and abide in the Spirit. Life in the Spirit is like living by the natural law of helium, but the way of carnality – by contrast – cannot escape the natural law of gravity. Therefore, people who do not live in the Spiritwill always pull you down. They do not even realise it, but that’s what they do.

THE SPIRIT AND THE WORD

The WORD and the Spirit is One. The Sword of the Spirit is the Word (Eph 6:17).

It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life(John 6:63).

The language of the Spiritis the Word of God. Every single word we speak in the Spirit is based and founded on Scripture. It is like someone who has memorised all of Scripture and has understanding and insight into the whole of Scripture. Your spiritual vocabulary is Word-based. They only speak from the Word (Josh 1:8). The Spirit gives life to the Word. By the Spirit, the Word becomes flesh in us.

You cannot be like Jesus without the Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit who resurrects, reveals and manifests Christ in us. Only the Spirit reveals Jesus in us.

It is simply not in man to be like Christ, any human attempt is of the spirit of the anti-christ.

The way of the Spirit is holy and sacred. Life in the Spirit is holy, consecrated, sanctified, precise, accurate, on the mark – Jesus.

The only way to be sinless, is to be in the Spirit. It is He who works it in us and draws us closer into a more holy consecrated lifestyle.

WE CAN EVEN WORK IN THE SPIRIT

Oh God, may we walk in the Spiritcontinually! Help us to remain and abide in the Spirit. Help us to find our complete habitation in the Holy Spirit. Work done in the Spirit is worship and glorifies God. Work can be done in the Spirit, for daily labour is not ungodly, secular nor sinful (Ex 31:3, 5; 35:31). Work is part of our creational purpose – to subdue and multiply (Gen 1:28). When we work by the Spirit it will not be laborious, but innovative, precise and intentional. In the Spirit, you will be able to focus and accomplish what you set out to do. Your work will be a blessing! Your work will be a sermon, an extension of His grace and character in you. Your work will reveal God in the same way His creation reveals Him. Your work will be excellent and spectacular, creative and rich in precise detail and order.

Believers being in the Spirithave created many new inventions.

Work done in the Spiritmakes this world better because it resonatesand reflects heaven! (Matt 6:10)

When living in the Spirit, our constant focus and attention are on His ability, not ours. His strength, power, fruit, gifts, testimony and riches. We are dead to our capabilities, efforts, methods, trying and achievements. Our confidence is in Him. Our default is Christ. We have died to self, our dreams and ambitions. We have died to our mistakes, failures, inabilities and incompetence. The life we now live, we live in the Son, by the Spirit.  It is the Spirit that enables.

Categories
Sermons

Dailiness: Discovering the Sacredness in the Ordinary

Blessed be the Lord,
Who daily loads us with benefits,
The God of our salvation!
(Ps 68:19)

Carpe diem is a Latin aphorism, usually translated “seize the day”, taken from book 1 of the Roman poet Horace’s work Odes (23 BC).
In Horace, the phrase is part of the longer carpe diem, quam minimum credula postero, which can be translated as “Seize the day, put very little trust in tomorrow (the future)”. The ode says that the future is unforeseen and that one should not leave to chance future happenings, but rather one should do all one can today to make one’s future better. This phrase is usually understood against Horace’s Epicurean background.[6] The meaning of carpe diem as used by Horace is not to ignore the future, but rather not to trust that everything is going to fall into place for you and taking action for the future today.[7]

“Remember that you are mortal, so seize the day.”

enjoy the moment.
“enjoy, seize, use, make use of”

Hebrew[edit]
The phrase ?ואם לא עכשיו, אימתי ‘And if not now, then when?’ (Pirkei Avoth 1:14)

n the 1989 movie Dead Poets Society, the English teacher John Keating, played by Robin Williams, famously says: “Carpe diem. Seize the day, boys. Make your lives extraordinary.” Later, this line was voted as the 95th greatest movie quote by the American Film Institute.[9] The television series Community later satirized the movie with the recurring character of Professor Whitman, a comedically eccentric version of Williams’ character who uses “Carpe diem” as his guiding philosophy.

The ability to fast-forward music and movies tempts us to think that we can fast-forward through the parts of our lives that seem boring or too difficult to face. But we really can’t.

Joan Chittister once said, “Dailiness, routine, sameness frees the heart to traffic in more important matters.”

As mens swaar kry, begin mens automaties fokus op, dag vir dag.

“Moet julle daarom nie oor môre bekommer nie. Môre sal sy eie bekommernisse bring. Vandag se moeilikhede is vir een dag heeltemal genoeg.” Die Bybel, Nuwe Lewende Vertaling. (2006). (Mt 6:34). Christelike Uitgewersmaatskappy.

Moet julle dan nie vandag al oor more se probleme kwel nie. As more gekom het, kan julle daaroor dink. Elke dag het genoeg van sy eie probleme.” Die Lewende Bybel. (1982). (Mt 6:34). Roodepoort: Christelike Uitgewersmaatskappy.

In the dailiness of our lives the holy meets the ordinary. Glory intersects with ruin. The sacred meets the routine. The lifelong journey to heaven is often marked with ordinary days where we simply do our work and serve God the best way we believe we can.

Exo 16:4 Manna elke dag

“Gee ons vandag ons daaglikse brood” Luk 11:3

“How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives.”

Indian philosopher, cultural reformer, and spiritual leader Gandhi was right when he said, “There is more to life than increasing its speed.”

the Lord’s mercies “are new every morning” (Lam. 3: 23 NIV),

The incarnation of God helps us rethink the myth that we need more. When God became flesh, every ordinary human life was validated as sacred. The fact that God became human and spent most of His life in obscurity as a carpenter in a small village called Nazareth gives us perspective. Through the incarnation, we learn that every life has dignity and significance; every ordinary life matters. The mystery of the incarnation helps us remember that an ordinary life is, in fact, a life worth living or else God would have chosen a different life, a different town, and perhaps a more “relevant” time, like right now.

DIE DAILY

The abundant life is not based on position or stature. It is not based on the heroic and epic. The abundant life is an ordinary life transformed by the power of God through Jesus Christ living in us. He said that following Him is a daily task, as is bearing His cross “daily” (Luke 9: 23 NIV).  Self is our biggest enemy. By choosing to die daily, and continuing to do exactly what he command, it simplifies things. This is our reasonable service. (Rom 12:1) We recon ourselves dead (Rom 6:11) and live to see Christ resurrected daily in us. (Phil 3:10)

DAILY CHURCH

Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. (Acts 2: 46–47 NIV) (2 Cor 11:28) (Acts 19:9; Luk 19:47) (Acts 16:5)  Bother Lawrence “I believe in the … communion of saints” Now with social media, the website, the Mobile app, and the daily radio programs we as a church are meeting and gathering together daily.  There is much protection and safety in keeping close ties with the Body of Christ. (Eph 4:16) It provides nutrients, and growth to all the parts.

WORSHIP DAILY

The psalmist clearly said, “Seven times a day I praise you” (Ps. 119: 164 NIV). So I will sing praise to Your name forever, That I may daily perform my vows. (Ps 61:8) Praise is part of our ordinary daily routine, altering our focus to remain constantly on God. (Heb 12:2) Praise focus our attention not on what has happened, but on what has not happened. It helps you to keep your focus and have a godly perspective about life.  Praise and thanksgiving humbles us, and keep your mood and attitude in the divine.

PRAY DAILY

Exercise daily in God—no spiritual flabbiness, please! Workouts in the gymnasium are useful, but a disciplined life in God is far more so, making you fit both today and forever. You can count on this. Take it to heart. This is why we’ve thrown ourselves into this venture so totally. We’re banking on the living God, Savior of all men and women, especially believers. (1 Tim. 4: 8) In the Catholic orthodox faith the traditional fixed hours for prayer are 6: 00 a.m., 9: 00 a.m., noon, 3: 00 p.m., 6: 00 p.m., 9: 00 p.m., and midnight.  This means that there are always someone praying at the same time all over the world. Jesus lived a daily prayer life, making time for separating Himself for times of prayer and reflection.

DAILY MIRACLES

Dr Brain Adams believes in – “Expecting everyday Miracles” Having an expectation to see God work the supernatural in every day, causes you to think, speak and live right! God does not confirm the person, He confirms His word. The word of our testimony. Declaring the gospel of salvation stirs faith for people to get saved, in the same way declaring God is present to heal, stirs faith for healing. Believe that signs and wonders follows you.

Mark 16:20 And they went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs.
Acts 4:29-30 grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.”
Heb. 2:4 God also bearing witness both with signs and wonders, with various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit, according to His own will?
You cannot theorise the work of the supernatural. If you never have done it, you have no right to even an opinion.

The Kingdom is not in words only but power 1 Cor 4:20; 2:4 but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.  If their is thus no signs and wonders, no miraculous, people put their faith in vain in the wisdom of man.

DAILY WORK

Then I was beside Him as a master craftsman; And I was daily His delight, Rejoicing always before Him, (Pr 8:30).  May your good works glorify your father in heaven (Mat 5:16). Do all to the Glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31 ESV). Brother Lawrence “Practising the presence of God” – “That he had always been governed by love, without selfish views; and that having resolved to make the love of GOD the end of all his actions, he had found reasons to be well satisfied with his method. That he was pleased when he could take up a straw from the ground for the love of GOD, seeking Him only, and nothing else, not even His gifts.”

When love motivates our daily work, our work becomes a testament of His love!

DAILY GIVING (SERVING)

Because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. Acts 6:1 This means the church were active in providing for the poor daily. This is why Deacons were chosen to serve the tables. (Acts 6) Giving and finding ways to serve is the heart and core of Kingdom living.  Jesus came to serve. (Phil 2:1-5) Serving another, doing the little ordinary things for another, is an act of love! (Joh 13:5)

DAILY REST

Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest, (Heb 4:11) In other words: make work of finding rest.  Living in rest, means also to live without any offence. Scripture demands that we encourage one another to be at peace, lest sin enters in, and disable you walk before God.  After you made peace with God. (Rom 5:1) Follow after peace with all men (Heb 12:14) See the emphasis on ‘daily’ and ‘today’ in the following scripture: “Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God; 13 but exhort one another daily, while it is called “Today,” lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. 14 For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end, 15 while it is said:“Today, if you will hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.” (Heb 3:12–15)

DAILY STUDY

These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so. (Ac 17:11) Plan your day, to make time for the Word. Personal Bible Study is the foundation of a spiritual life exercise regime.  You can only grow spiritually to the measure your understanding has been enlightened by the Word, through the Spirit.  Moreover, making the Word the first priority in your thoughts is vital, so that you’ll learn to base your thoughts and emotions on the Word. When facing a crisis, go to the Word first! Before analysing and confronting the problem! We should always instinctively turn to the scriptures first, when facing and dealing with life.

Sieze Christ within the hope of Glory, and see Him manifest Himself though your life!

Some of the notes comes from: The Jesus Life: Eight Ways to Recover Authentic Christianity
by Stephen W. Smith