Fertile Ground

 

Jesus is saying to him, "I am the Way and the Truth and the Life.  No one is coming to the Father except through me." 

Johns Account 14: 6, Concordant New Testament 

Those in the mainstream church fork out thousands of dollars each year to bring the message of the gospel to the people.  Through sermons, radio and television and live streaming, those seeking to draw others unto the Lord present the gospel unto the Fathers creation.  The old church I once attended would often stress discipleship and ministry outreach in order to pull in new believers.  Conferences large and small were organized to make the plea on a larger scale.  Back then I often wondered, what ever happened to those who DESIRED to know the Lord?  Here we were putting out all of this effort to entice people into the church, but what of those who truly were being led by their own heart to seek out the Lord?  Ultimately, the mission of the mainstream church is not to entice new members, but to proclaim the words of Jesus.  Having the largest congregation means nothing if we're not speaking the gospel of Christ.  For when we preach the truth of the gospel of Jesus, those who are needing to hear it will come.  Jesus invited those who were curious to "Come and see" {Johns Account 1:39-41}.  If I had a rock solid ministry which spoke the gospel of Christ, that would be my invitation unto others, come and see.  Come and see He Who loved us first {First Epistle of John 4:10}.  Come and see He Who put our sin to death {Paul to the Romans 6:10}.  Our group of believers currently meets via a podcast on Sunday mornings.  We talk of what it is like to live in Christ, which is the evangel of truth spoken by Paul {Paul to the Galatians 2:20}.  Our invitation to others?  Come and see.  Indeed, we have seen our group added to as well as listeners moving on to other things.  Recently we were excited to learn that our little living as Jesus conversation had reached the 1,000 downloads number.  To put this into perspective, our core group of weekly listeners usually numbers in at around six or seven people.  This means that nearly a thousand listeners have heeded our invitation to come and see.  

In that day Jesus, coming out of the house, sat beside the sea.  And gathered to Him were vast throngs, so that He steps into a ship to be sitting, and the entire throng stood on the beach.  And He spoke many things to them in parables, saying, "Lo! Out came the sower to be sowing.  And , in his sowing, some, indeed, falls beside the road, and the flying creatures came and devoured it.  Yet other falls on rocky places, where it had not much earth, and immediately it shoots up, because it has no depth of earth.  Yet at the rising sun, it is scorched, and, because it has no root, it is withered.  Yet other falls on thorns, and the thorns come up and smother it.  Yet other falls on ideal earth and gives fruit, some, indeed, a hundred, yet some sixty, yet some thirtyfold.  Who has ears to hear, Let him hear!" 

Matthews Account 13: 1-9, Concordant New Testament  

In the gospel of Matthew, we see Jesus speaking to a crowd by the sea {Matthews Account 1-9}.  He speaks the parable of the sower, which He uses to illustrate those who hear the word of the gospel.  When we invite others to come and see, not all who come forth will be prepared to perceive the word of Christ. Jesus describes these as being those seeds which fall on unfertile ground.  They may hear the words of the gospel, but they do not understand.  But what of those who truly desire to know the Father?  I believe that these are the seeds which fall on fertile ground and produce fruit.  The ground and the soil are ideal for the understanding of the word.  Jesus used this illustration that those listening to Him would understand what He was talking about.  Keep in mind that those which He was speaking to were all too familiar with farming and planting of seeds.  In my younger years, I would classify myself as one who lacked the fertile ground for the words of Jesus to take root.  I knew OF Jesus, but I did not yet truly know Him.  That only came with the revelation of the Father.  Jesus proclaims that the Father gives to Him those He will gather unto Himself {Johns Account 10:29}.  These are those who are hearing His voice {Johns Account 10:27}.  He who has ears, let Him hear!  

"My sheep are hearing My voice, and I know them, and they are following Me.  And I am giving them life eonian, and they should by no means be perishing for the eon, and no one shall be snatching them out of My hand.  My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all, and no one is able to be snatching them out of My Fathers hand.  I and the Father, We are one." 

Johns Account 10: 27-30, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~  

Choices

 

All is allowed me, but not all is expedient.  All is allowed me, but not all is edifying. 

Paul To The Corinthians (1) 10: 23, Concordant New Testament 

The question is, what do the words of Paul have to do with recovery from injury?  This is the question I contemplated this week as I recover from a recent knee injury.  Catering to the desires of the flesh, my first inclination was to reward myself with a cheat meal for staying the course in my recovery.  Then it hit me, what good would that do me?  In fact, wouldn't it do harm to what I have been trying to achieve in my overall health?  Then the words of the apostle came to mind as Paul discusses this very subject.  Paul was all too familiar with the rules and regulations of the strict Jewish standards of his day.  In fact, he had spent a good portion of his life in the edicts of the Jewish faith.  There were structures and traditions for eating, drinking and many other aspects of daily life.  Paul would also come to understand the words of Jesus when He referred to the Jewish leaders of His day as "Whitewashed sepulchers" {Matthews Account 23:27}.  The leaders who preached such traditions but were themselves unclean.  Men who focused on outward appearance while ignoring the interior.  Paul would come to understand that all things were allowed him, but not everything is edifying to him {Paul To The Corinthians (1) 10:23}.  Yes, I can indulge in all sorts of things that I desire, but not everything is uplifting for me.  Perhaps this is why the Lord created us with the innate ability to choose?  Whether this is true or not, these words of the apostle can certainly help us in our life.  Back in the day, I certainly knew that visiting strip clubs was allowed.  I did that a lot.  However, I did not yet realize that this indeed was not edifying to me.  The alcoholic might see that drinking is indeed allowed him, yet does not realize that it is not edifying to him, it does him no good whatsoever.  If we desire to live as those whitewashed sepulchers, which are bright and shiny on the outside but not the interior, then we're missing the point.  

"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites!  for you are cleansing the outside of the cup and the plate, yet inside they are brimming with rapacity and incontinence.  Blind Pharisee!  Cleanse first the inside of the cup and the plate, that their outside may be becoming clean!" 

Matthews Account 23: 25-26, Concordant New Testament 

In His famous woes to the Pharisees, Jesus was all too aware of the hearts and intentions of these religious leaders.  It is Jesus who speaks to us of letting our light shine before men {Matthews Account 5:16}.  This light is Christ Jesus Himself {Johns Account 1:4}.  I believe that Jesus was illustrating here the hearts of the Jewish leaders.  They certainly conducted themselves according to the edicts which they preached (Whitewashed sepulchers).  Yet their actions did not portray what was in their hearts.  They demanded of the people what they themselves did not practice.  Indeed, Paul was all too aware of these men and their practices.  He once walked in their shoes.  I'm sure that he ruffled a few Pharisee feathers when he proclaimed that all things were allowed him.  Of course, having his eyes opened by the Lord, he also understood that everything, although allowed, was not profitable for him.  There are things which are not edifying for Christ Jesus in Whom we now live.  Is a visit to the local strip club showing the light of Jesus in me?  While I might recognize Him there, those around me might see me as one of those whitewashed sepulchers.  Yes, all things are allowed me, but not all things are profitable.  

~Scott~ 

Gods Unhealthy Creation

 

There is no independent, self-operating self in the universe, except the One who calls Himself the I AM {Exodus 3:14} and says, "I am the Lord and there is none else, there is no God beside Me {Isaiah 45:5}. 

No Independent Self ~ Norman Grubb 

Once again this morning I opened my email to the latest Wayne Jacobsen "The God Journey" podcast only to be treated to another dose of seeing myself as separated from the Father.  This morning, Wayne and his sidekick tackle the question of negative emotions and how it is that they affect us.  What peaked my interest was when he mentioned the "unhealthy" side of our brains which supposedly produce these emotions.  Sorry, but I'm not buying into that nonsense.  I have spent a good deal of time in my writing relating my beliefs in the truth of Jesus and the indwelling Christ.  Of how the apostle Paul spoke to this truth in Galatians {Paul To The Galatians 2:20}.  Yes, I live in Christ.  The idea that the Lord who created me in His very image would create something unhealthy in me is not something I care to entertain {Genesis 1:27}.  Of course, this speaks directly to the mantra of the mainstream church that we are indeed separate from God.  Again, this is the lie spoken to Adam and Eve in the garden {Exodus 3:5-6}.  Satan assures Eve that when she eats of the tree which the Lord commended her not to that she would not die, but that her eyes would be opened and that she would "Be like God" {Genesis 3:5}.  How much more could the first creation be like God?  Created in his image AND receiving from Him the breath of life {Genesis 2:7}.  Indeed, the Father has been with us from the beginning.  To suggest otherwise is simply ignoring the scriptures.  We know that all things were created through Christ {Johns Account 1:3}.  Yes, this includes us.  For Jesus has been from the beginning {Johns Account 1:1}.  There has never been a time where the Father has not been an intimate part of us.  So, how is it, then, that we could have a unhealthy part of this creation in which God resides?  Well, I see Wayne Jacobsen's theory here as simply his way of describing something negative within us.  Whether bad thoughts or bad emotions, there must be a cause, right?  We blame our bad thoughts on the existence of sin.  Now, we blame our bad emotions on something in us that is unhealthy.  No, what is unhealthy is the wrong perception that we are separated from God.  

With Christ have I been crucified, yet I am living; no longer I, but living in me is Christ.  Now that which i am now living in the flesh, I am living in faith that is of the Son of God, Who loves me, and gives Himself up for me. 

Paul To The Galatians 2: 20, Concordant New Testament 

It seems that everything which we see as negative about ourselves we feel that we need to attach a cause to.  We cannot grasp the concept that a holy God could be right smack in the middle of His creation that has so many negative issues to overcome.  So, we attach blame where we see fit.  In sickness, death and tragedy we assume that the One who lovingly created us in His image is now bestowing His anger upon us for some reason.  When those critical of Christianity accuse us of following a vengeful God they're not too far off the mark.  For this is the lie which we have made Him out to be.  All because we cannot see God in our sickness, tragedy and bad emotions.  I admit that I have made this mistake myself in the past.  Instead of seeing the Lord in me I adhered to the teachings of Christianity which spoke a different message.  Of course, this has never taken away from the truth of Gods union with His children {Johns Account 14:20}.  But that wouldn't sell too many tickets in the mainstream church where a holy God is never associated with anything unhealthy.  

~Scott~ 

No Apologetics Necessary

 

Yet hallow the Lord Christ in your hearts, ever ready with a defense for everyone who is demanding from you an account concerning the expectation in you, but with meekness and fear.  

Peter To The Disposition (1) 3: 15, Concordant New Testament 

I have been learning more and more to check into the meaning of different ancient words or phrases as I do my writing.  Sometimes this provides for some interesting revelations for some.  Then there are times where all which that which I had believed needs another look.  Which brings me to this mornings topic, which is the Christian practice of apologetics.  Now, many believers see apologetics as that vehement defense of all which they believe.  Buty I would disagree on this.  The apostle Peter proclaims that we be ever ready with a "Apologia," a defense of the expectation we know to be true {Peter To The Disposition(1) 3: 15}.  The reason that I disagree with the modern Christian practice of apologetics is not for what Peter spoke to, but what we have made of it.  Like everything in Christianity which bears mankind's fingerprints, the original intent has seemingly been lost.  The Greek word Apologia refers to a defense of ones opinions, position or actions.  So far so good.  However, if we take the words of Peter to heart, the idea of a "Vehement" defense of the faith is not spoken to.  What the apostle does tells us is to be ever ready with a defense, yet with meekness and fear.  I do not see this as carte blanche for a knock down, drag out argument with anyone and everyone who disagrees with what we believe.  Yet that was the way I used to see things.  Whenever someone would question the gospel, I was ready with a pro church argument at all costs.  That was what I was taught.  That is what I did.  I can imagine that my actions drove far too many potential believers away.  To me it didn't matter, I was defending the faith.  In my mind, Jesus would be proud of me, or so I thought.  I was a Christian soldier!  Of course, that was not what I was called upon to do.  

For the anger of man is not working the righteousness of God. 

James To The Twelve Tribes 1: 20, Concordant New Testament 

So, my question to the modern believer is this, how does an argument based in anger and vitriol show the love of the Lord?  If our goal is to spread the word of Jesus in a loving way, how are we doing that by arguing our way from one person to another?  Jesus calls upon us to love one another, not to demean them in His name {Johns Account 13:34}.  But consider this, how is it that God needs us to defend Himself?  God, the creator of the universe, is more than capable of defending whatever He does.  How is it that we are showing meekness through arguing?  Again, this is not the intent of Peters defense of the gospel, but the result of mans interpretation of it.  I have a friend of the Eastern Orthodox faith whom I cannot discuss religious issues with as it often leads to a heated conversation.  He is where I was some years ago.  He is a soldier of the faith.  When did Jesus speak of the love of the Father by arguing?  As far as I'm concerned, arguments bring shame and condemnation, and in Christ I am no longer condemned {Paul To The Romans 8:1}.  Nor should we condemn anyone else in the name of Jesus.  Paul speaks to the beauty of the feet of those who bring an evangel of good {Paul To The Romans 10:15}.  This is why when it comes to proclaiming the gospel of the Lord, I say that there are no apologetics necessary. 

~Scott~ 

Someone Like Me

 

When I get home, people 'll ask me, "Hey Hoot, why do ya do it man?  Why?  You some war junkie?  Ya know what I'll say?  I won't say a goddamn word.  Why?  They won't understand.  They won't understand why we do it.  They won't understand that it's about the men next to you, that's it.  That's all it is.

MSG Norm "Hoot" Hooten 

He had it right, in combat the most important thing is the men next to you.  Anyone who has served knows this to be true.  But what about common everyday people?  What about those who have not known the fellowship of a military unit?  Well, relax, there's still hope.  Years ago, I stepped out of the mainstream church for the final time.  I have never gone back.  Yet I have often thought of returning if just for the fellowship of fellow believers.  For me, attending a church service now and then simply to keep in touch with a few friends does not seem as if I am compromising my standards.  In fact, despite my writings critical of the modern church, I would suggest to anyone new to the faith that attending a local church is a good beginning in your search for knowing the Lord.  However, I will caution you that some of what you read in the scriptures you will not hear preached from the pulpits of many churches these days.  But for the case of the topic of fellowship, I feel as if the church is a good place for those seeking to commune with those of the faith.  Do I feel that someone should remain in the church to absorb the teachings?  Absolutely not.  As the late Kenny Rogers once said, "You got to know when to hold'em and know when to fold'em."  Whether in poker or the mainstream church, one must know when it's time to cut and run.  There's no doubt that the institutional church has seen a mass exodus of attendees over the years.  Yet there continue to be those who, seeking to know the Lord, flock to the only logical place to do just that, the church.  I have no issue with someone seeking to know the Lord seeking out a good church to attend.  However, I do have an issue with a church which continues to mislead people on the truth of a loving Father.  As I said, when it comes to the issue of fellowship, I'm all for it.  

Now all those who believe were also in the same place and had all things in common.  And they disposed of the acquisitions and the properties, and divided them to all, forasmuch as some would have had need.  Besides persevering day by day with one accord in the sanctuary, besides breaking bread home by home, they partook of nourishment with exultation and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor for the whole people.  Now the Lord added to those being saved day by day in the same place.  

Acts Of The Apostles 2: 44-47, Concordant New Testament 

One of my favorite passages of scripture is the description of the early church of believers in Jesus we find in Acts 2.  Here, we see a group of like minded believers breaking bread and worshipping together.  A people sharing what they had with those in need.  When I think about it, these used to be some of the core values of a few of the churches I have known.  The last church I attended made use of a ministry which distributed food and clothing to those in need in the community.  Sadly, that was replaced with praise and worship bands and flashy surroundings.  More than a few churches make the mistake of thinking that better looking buildings will fill the pews on Sunday.  Unfortunately for them, this isn't the case at all.  I didn't chose the last church I attended simply because it looked nice.  No, I chose it because of the recommendation of a friend that the Lord was preached.  This was something I had been looking for.  I would say that many who are seeking churches these days are doing so for similar reasons.  To know the Lord and for fellowship with those who are seeking the same thing.  I would definitely refer someone to a local church as a starting point in their journey.  But I would also caution them that they will not find what they're looking for in the modern church.  They will find fellowship, which is something we all need.  

~Scott~

Nishlam!

 

When, then, Jesus took the vinegar, He said, "It is accomplished!"  And reclining his head, He gives up His spirit. 

Johns Account 19: 30, Concordant New Testament 

As Jesus hung on that Roman cross, no doubt weary from the treatment He had received, He uttered the most iconic words in all of our Christian belief.  That being, IT IS ACCOMPLISHED!  In uttering these words, Jesus not only proclaimed the end of His ministry, but the end of sin as an issue as well.  In regards to sin, Christ has proclaimed it finished in the past, present and future.  There would be no need for Jesus to put sin to death a second or third time.  As the apostle Paul proclaims, Jesus died to sin "Once for all time" {Paul To The Romans 6:10}.  Why is this important?  Because in modern Christianity sin continues to be an issue for many believers.  I believe that many Christians know of the death of Jesus on the cross, but are unaware of the significance of His sacrifice.  For Christ did not simply die for the forgiveness of my sins, but that sin as a whole would be nullified {Paul To The Romans 6:6}.  Yet far too many Christian pastors continue to speak of sin as if it were still relevant in our lives.  That we need to be aware of its influence in our lives.  That because of sin, there is now a separation between ourselves and God.  This is, of course, ridiculous thinking based upon the lie of the accuser spoken in the garden {Genesis 3:5-6}.  But despite Jesus declaring the defeat of sin "Accomplished," the mainstream church continues to this day to deny the sacrifice of Christ on the cross.  Now, don't get me wrong, for I am fully aware of what I have just staked claim to.  The church denying the sacrifice of Jesus?  Yes, and hear me out.  When the powers that be in the modern institutional church continue to proclaim the existence of sin, they are in fact denying that Jesus gave Himself up for the defeat of sin {Paul To The Corinthians (2) 5:21}.  That's right, Jesus BECAME sin that it would die with Him on the cross.  To continue to speak to the existence of sin is, in fact, denying the sacrifice of Jesus.  Yes, I fully expect a backlash of opposition to such a blasphemous claim, but how else can you describe it?  When Jesus Himself declares It is accomplished, I believe Him!  

Knowing this, that our old humanity was crucified together with Him, that the body of sin may be nullified, for us by no means to be still slaving for sin, for one who dies has been justified from sin.  Now if we died together with Christ, we believe that we shall be living together with Him also, having perceived that Christ, being roused from among the dead, is no longer dying.  Death is lording it over Him no longer, for in that He died, He died to sin once for all time, yet in that He is living, He is living to God.  Thus you also, be reckoning yourselves to be dead, indeed, to sin, yet living to God in Christ Jesus, our Lord. 

Paul To The Romans 6: 6-11, Concordant New Testament 

The larger question one might ask is, if someone not trained up in seminary Pharisee school can profess to this truth we find in scripture, then why don't modern Christian pastors do the same?  Even though it is never my intent to point the finger of guilt at the mainstream church on most issues, they make it far too easy to do just that.  Most church leaders will point to the words of Paul in Romans proclaiming that all have sinned {Paul To The Romans 3:23}.  Yet in the very next verse, Paul speaks to the deliverance which we find in Christ.  Yes, all have sinned, but through the sacrifice of Christ Jesus on the cross that stain has been washed away.  I am no longer considered a sinner, nor a sinner saved by grace.  For with the sacrifice of Jesus I am a new creation free from the condemnation of sin {Paul To The Corinthians (2) 5:17}.  It was never the Fathers intent to keep His children in a state of bondage, yet that is what many are experiencing today.  For to believe that we continue to live in sin is to be in bondage to sin.  To live free in Christ is the realization that sin was put to death with Him on the cross.  Knowing this, we can confidently say IT IS ACCOMPLISHED! 

So that, if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: the primitive passed by.  Lo! there has come new! 

Paul To The Corinthians (2) 5: 17, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~ 

Forever In Jesus

 

According as He chooses us in Him before the disruption of the world, we to be holy and flawless in His sight. 

Paul To The Ephesians 1: 4, Concordant New Testament 

I've spent a good deal of time proclaiming the truth of Christ Jesus in me.  Some refer to this as the indwelling Christ.  The apostle Paul spoke to this in his letter to the church in Galatia {Paul To The Galatians 2:20}.  I know that it is indeed Christ Jesus that I now live in union with.  But the question was raised this week of just when Jesus came to be in me.  In the words of John, Jesus has been with us from the beginning {Johns Account 1:3}.  Not one thing came into being apart from Christ Jesus, even me.  Paul also speaks to the fact that Jesus chose us before the creation of the world {Paul To The Ephesians 1:4}.  Indeed, it was Jesus who chose me, I did not choose Him.  It was Jesus who chose us from the beginning.  Knowing what I know now, why is it that I did not speak to the indwelling Christ long before this?  Well, in all honesty, I did not realize that I indeed lived in Him.  I would say that this is the issue with many well meaning believers today.  They do not realize their own life in Christ.  I know I didn't.  This should come as no surprise as many believers continue to adhere to the traditional teachings and traditions of the mainstream church.  If there is one place where one will not hear of the indwelling Jesus it's in the church.  The one place where this truth should shouted from the rooftops.  Of course, the refusal of the church to embrace the truth of our union with Christ does not by any means make it untrue.  What it means is that, for reasons of it's own, the traditional institutional church has chosen to ignore the truth of the gospel of Christ.  Therefore, I am not at all surprised when people respond with confusion when I proclaim my union with Jesus.  The church has long stood by the edict that God could never be in the presence of sin.  God is holy, and sin is unholy.  The two do not belong together.  But the mainstream church, in all of its wisdom, has chosen to ignore the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.  For Jesus became sin in our place on the cross {Paul To The Corinthians (2) 5:21}.  Jesus died for our sins, end of story.  So, tell me again how God and sin cannot coexist.  

And He is before all, and all has its cohesion in Him. 

Paul To The Colossians 1: 17, Concordant New Testament 

In all honesty, the biggest barrier to our realization of the indwelling Christ is the mainstream church.  Yet I cannot pass all of the blame on the institution, as people also have the ability, as I did, to inquire and search on their own.  People have the ability to seek out the teachings of others in order to know Him more.  In fact, the apostle John challenges believers to "Test the spirits" of those who are speaking the gospel to see if they are of God {First Epistle of John 4:1}.  Despite the fact that I spent many years in the halls of the mainstream church, it was the words of a good friend which started me on the journey of knowing the truth of His Son in me.  This eventually led to the Fathers revelation of my life in Christ.  Although we are tasked to test the spirits, it is the Father who will give us the revelation of our union life in Him {Johns Account 14:20}.  Paul, one of the greatest teachers of the gospel of Jesus, received his revelation on the road to Damascus {Paul To The Galatians 1: 15-16}.  Yes, Jesus has been with us from the very beginning, as He has all things.  Yet it is by the Fathers revealing that we will know of our life in Him.  This in no way nullifies the words of Paul which speak of the indwelling Christ.  That "Living in me is Christ." 

With Christ have I been crucified, yet I am living; no longer I, but living in me is Christ.  Now that which I am now living in the flesh, I am living in faith that is of the Son of God, who loves me, and gives Himself up for me. 

Paul To The Galatians 2: 20, Concordant New Testament  

~Scott~ 

A Perfect Union

 For in Him the entire compliment of the Deity is dwelling bodily.  And you are complete in Him, Who is the head of every sovereignty and authority. 

Paul To The Colossians 2: 9-10, Concordant New Testament 

The scriptures tell us that there is none perfect but for the Lord {Paul To The Romans 3:10, 3:23}.  Indeed, each and every one of us may struggle for a lifetime without ever gaining the perfection of the Lord.  Or can we?  Traditional Christian wisdom and teaching tells us that all have sinned and fallen away from the Lord, we're not perfect.  We're told that the closest we can be is to be "close" to Jesus or to "Be like" Him.  Even traditional Christian music calls for Jesus to "Come closer" to us.  The entire paradigm is one of the distance between ourselves and the God.  Between the perfect and the sinners.  The apostle Paul spoke to the truth of Christ Jesus in him in his letter to the Galatians {Paul To The Galatians 2:20}.  I remember that when I first read this passage that it upset the apple cart of beliefs I had been carrying around for so many years.  Jesus...in me?  Actually, it is myself in Him.  But how is it that a sinner like myself could be in Jesus?  These are the elementary questions which come up whenever the truth of Christ in us is spoken to those who follow the traditional mainstream church teaching.  Understand, that without the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, there would be NO indwelling Christ within us.  For Jesus Himself became sin on the cross that it be put to death {Paul To The Corinthians (2) 5:21}.  Paul proclaims that it is Christ Jesus who has defeated sin once for ALL {Paul To The Romans 6:10}.  It is Jesus who declared that all He had set out to accomplish had been completed {Johns Account 28:30}.  The sin issue that far too many believers continue to cling to is no more.  What remains is Christ.  Knowing this, we can say with confidence that we are indeed perfect in Christ Jesus.  Paul proclaims that we are complete in God {Paul To The Colossians 2:9-10}.  We are perfect in Him. 

I in them and Thou in Me, that they may be perfected in one, and that the world may know that Thou dost commission Me and dost love them according as Thou dost love Me.  

Johns Account 17: 23, Concordant New Testament 

If I were to walk into any mainstream church and declare that I was indeed perfect I'm sure that I would be scrutinized to the max.  But I would never think of doing that.  What I WOULD proclaim is that I am indeed perfect IN HIM.  For to speak that I am perfect speaks to the false idea that I am my own individual.  Understand, it has nothing to do with my own accomplishments that I am now in union with the Lord {Paul To The Ephesians 2:8-9}.  It is through the sacrifice of Christ Jesus that I remain in Him {Johns Account 14:20}.  Therefore, I am perfect in the Father.  I lack nothing of Him in my life.  I can already see the mainstream church followers scratching their heads as they attempt to contemplate such heresy.  When Jesus proclaimed that He and the Father were one, the Jewish authorities took up stones to hurl against Him {Johns Account 10:31}.  The Jews accused Jesus of blasphemy and for "Making yourself God" {Johns Account 10:33}.  I have no doubt that were I to proclaim that I am perfect in God that I may receive a similar reaction.  But Jesus wasn't wrong.  He and the Father ARE one just as I am one in He and the Father {Johns Account 14:20}.  I have had a few conversations with a good friend who adheres to the Eastern Orthodox Christianity, and he has vehemently argued against this idea despite the truth we find in scripture.  I have never claimed to be perfect.  What I do proclaim is that I am perfect in the Lord. 

~Scott~ 

Missing The Point

 He who is not loving knew not God, for God is love. 

First Epistle Of John 4: 8, Concordant New Testament 

I read a short blurb written by Wayne Jacobsen on something known as the Four Degrees of Love.  Written by the monk Bernard of Clairvaux, the four degrees of love include (1) Loving ourselves for our own sake, (2) Loving God for our own sake, (3) Loving God for His own sake, and (4) Loving ourselves for God's sake (Assuming we continue to have a independent self?).  Now, I didn't think much of this as ol' Bernard seemed to follow the traditional church mantra that we indeed are independent beings.  However, it did bring me back to a conversation I had with a brother recently about the meaning of the different translations we find in scripture.  We find in scripture, especially in the New Testament, that there may be differing definitions of love depending on the situation.  The Greek word Phileo translates to a emotional love which transcends casual friendships.  The Greek word Agape refers to an unconditional love, which can be compared to the love of the Father for us.  Yet the word Eros is used to portray love in an erotic fashion.  Everyone got this so far?  Far from being different degrees of the same thing, as the monk proclaims, we see different words for different situations.  This is the language of the ancient Greeks.  When we read the scriptures, we tend to see one of the Greek words signifying love and we attach one single meaning to it.  The apostle John writes of the love of the Father {First Epistle of John 4:8}.  Which Greek word best describes this passage?  I see the word Agape as referring to the Fathers love for His children, which is unconditional.  When Jesus inquires of Peter, "Are you loving Me more than these?", He was not looking for the correct translation of the word, but for what was on His apostles heart {Johns Account 21:15}.  While we may regret that our language has no words which refer to a degree of love, we know full well the love we feel in our hearts.  

Perceive what manner of love the Father has given us, that we may be called children of God!  And we are!  Therefore the world does not know us, for it did not know Him. 

First Epistle of John 3: 1, Concordant New Testament 

I don't think the our friend the monk is the only one who is missing the point here.  If we consider the differing degrees of love we might fall into the idea that we are indeed independent, which is the lie of the deceiver spoken in the garden {Genesis 3: 5-6}.  Has the Father shown us differing degrees of love?  Are there stages of love which we need to graduate into?  No, for as I said, this idea of degrees of love is more about translation than the true meaning of the word.  Our friends the Greeks simply had different words to describe what they were feeling.  The monk latched onto this, took it and ran.  Now, could we ourselves benefit from having words which differentiate the different feelings of love which we feel?  Perhaps, maybe that is why so many peoples intentions get misconstrued by others.  They say one thing but those around them are hearing something else.  Indeed, one of the most oft used and abused phrases in the English language are the words "I love you."  We seem to toss these words around without thinking more often than not.  We have no differing words to describe the different situations of love.  Now, one can say, "I love you like a brother" and be perfectly fine.  But it doesn't always turn out that way.  I believe it's less about the words and more about what's in our hearts.  

~Scott~ 

From The Ashes

 

Now we know that God is working all together for the good of those who are loving God, who are called according to the purpose. 

Paul To The Romans 8: 28, Concordant New Testament 

Thinking of yesterdays post, I was pondering if it is indeed easier to see God in our troubles than to see how it is that He is working good in these situations.  Knowing that God is all in all might be an easier pill to swallow than seeing good in tragedy?  Perhaps, but I'm beginning to understand that they go hand in hand.  To understand that the Father is all in all is to know that His love nature {First Epistle Of John 4:8} prompts Him to bring about good in the lives of those who know Him.  Still, far too many believers and non believers alike continue to wonder out loud how it is that God could allow tragedy in the world.  But what others see as tragedy I see as simply another opportunity for the Lord to work in someone's life.  Through the death of my mother, I have come to know and understand Him better.  I'd say that is God working for the good.  When we look at the tragedies in life, we often only see things from our earthly perspective.  Unless our prayer is for the Fathers revealing of His intentions, we cannot know what is really going on behind the scenes.  Indeed, the scriptures proclaim that the ways of the Lord are not our ways {Isaiah 55:8-9, Paul To The Corinthians (1) 2:15-16}.  Therefore, if indeed we intend to know what the Father is up to, we should indeed make it known to Him through prayer.  A few years ago, while going through a trying time in my life, a dear brother posed to me the question.  What is it that God is doing through all of this?  Amen!  This is a question seldom asked and a prayer not often spoken.  Why wouldn't we want to know what the Lord is doing through us?  If indeed we are in union with He and Jesus, there is no doubt that the Father is working in each and every part of our lives {Johns Account 14:20}.  When I began to see the Father in this way it gave me a better perspective on those trying times in my life.  

Knowing this first, that no prophesy of scripture at all is becoming its own explanation.  For not by the will of man was prophesy carried on at anytime, but, being carried on by the holy spirit, holy men of God speak. 

Peter To The Dispersion (2) 1: 20-21, Concordant New Testament 

Listen to church sermons long enough and you will undoubtedly hear some pulpit pounder speak of the difficult "seasons" of life.  The author of Ecclesiastes spoke that there is indeed a time for every purpose under heaven {Ecclesiastes 1:1}.  So poignant was this message, it seems, that the Byrds turned it into a classic rock tune.  Yes, into every life a little rain must fall.  Yet I would interpret this scripture to mean that there is a time for each and every one of Gods purposes in our life.  What is His purpose for our life in the rough times?  We can know the answer, if we just ask Him.  In His own way, the Lord will open our eyes to what it is He is accomplishing through us.  Knowing this may just help us look upon those difficult times in our lives a bit differently.  Consider the alternative.  Not knowing that the Lord has a purpose for us in these difficult times can and usually does lead to more stress than we care to handle.  At least it did for me.  Knowing that God has a purpose to work all things for the good for those who know Him can indeed be a life changing revelation.  Our prayer should not be why are you doing this, Lord?  Knowing that He is working His purpose, we can be assured that He is working good through us. 

~Scott~ 

Where We Don't See God

 

Now, whenever all may be subjected to Him, then the Son Himself also shall be subjected to Him who subjects all to Him, that God may be all in all.  

Paul To The Corinthians (1) 15: 28, Concordant New Testament 

Most believers can testify to the fact that the universe and all which we see has been created by the spoken word of the Lord.  God said it, and it came to be.  I assume that we can also agree that it is God who created who we are.  First in His image {Genesis 1:27}.  Then by giving life to His image {Genesis 2:7}.  Knowing this, we can assume that God is present in each and every aspect of what He created.  He is indeed all in all {Paul To The Corinthians (1) 15:28}.  Yet, there are times where we certainly do not see the God who is all in all in certain parts of our lives.  It's easy to coast through the good times in life and proclaim that we are indeed blessed.  I wouldn't argue with that, for we are indeed blessed.  But what about those times in our lives when we don't feel so blessed?  I can speak from experience because I have been going through a difficult season as of late.  Is it possible for me to still proclaim that I am blessed?  Absolutely!  The issue for many people is that they refuse to see God in their most difficult circumstances.  If God is all in all, then He is in our pain and sorrow as well.  But we seldom look for Him there.  Instead, we put out our prayers of "Help me, Lord."  I get it.  Because when the chips are down and life gives us lemons, we instinctively turn to God for help.  I don't fault others for doing that, it's what we've been taught to do in tough times.  Believers worldwide form prayer groups and chains with the express purpose of praying for those in need.  Here in Portland, there is a weekly Sunday evening call in prayer request show on a local Christian radio station.  The Hearts of Love broadcast has been sending out prayer and praises to local listeners for many years.  However, I have never heard the hosts mention that God is with us in our pain.  That's an issue.  For when we do not see God in our struggles, we might slide down that slope of seeing ourselves as being separated from Him.  This is the lie spoken to Adam and Eve in the garden by Satan {Genesis 3:5-6}.  In reality, we have never been isolated from the Father.  He has never changed.  He has always been all in all.  

Who will transfigure the body of humiliation, to conform it to the body of His glory, in accord with the operation which enables Him even to subject all to Himself. 

Paul To The Philippians 3: 21, Concordant New Testament 

People are big into claiming that we cause our own pain.  That it is because of our addictions and bad choices that we end up in difficult stages of life.  While this may be true on the surface, where is God through all of this?  Is He not completely involved in this as well?  It might be difficult for the believer to wrap their minds around the truth the God is in our pain and suffering, but that is indeed where He is.  God was in the pain and suffering of Abraham as well as the pain of His servant David.  So He is with us.  The apostle Paul speaks to the truth of Christ Jesus in him in Galatians {Paul To The Galatians 2:20}.  By this we know that we are in Christ.  This is our union with Christ Jesus and the Father {Johns Account 14:20}.  Christ in the Father, we in Jesus and Christ in us.  Knowing that He created us in His image, how is it that we can then proclaim that God is not an intimate part of our lives?  When we speak of God being all in all, we definitely need to understand that there is no part of His creation that He is not a part of.  This, of course, includes those places where we would not expect Him to be.  How liberating is it to know that even in our darkest times, God is right there with us?  All in all.  

Wherein there is no Greek and Jew, circumcision and uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, slave, freeman, but all in all is Christ. 

Paul To The Colossians 3: 11, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~ 

Through A Different Lens

 

For the era will be when they will not tolerate sound teaching, but, their hearing being tickled, they will heap up for themselves teachers in accord with their own desires, and, indeed, they will be turning their hearing away from the truth, yet will be turned aside to myths. 

Paul To Timothy 4: 3-4, Concordant New Testament 

The truth is, I have not set foot in a church service for over ten years.  Why?  Well, it seems that I found a chink in the armor of the mainstream church.  That being the preaching that sin is still present in us all.  Indeed, for many well intentioned believers, sin is the elephant in the room.  We confess to know that Christ died for the forgiveness of sin, yet we continue to live as if His sacrifice had no meaning.  For many years I was that guy seated in a church pew on Sunday listening to the pastor tell me that I needed to seek forgiveness for my sins.  That is, until one Sunday when, after proclaiming that Jesus had indeed given Himself for the forgiveness of my sins, the same pastor invited the congregation to come forward to seek forgiveness for whatever sin they felt was holding them back.  At that moment, I was done.  I was done hearing that Jesus had forgiven me only to have some pulpit pounder tell me that wasn't true at all.  So it was over the following years that I developed a different lens than I had in my younger believer days.  The "Lens" I refer to is that which I believe to be true in my heart.  Don't get me wrong, I have not abandoned entirely the mantra of the mainstream church, I still feel that the gathering of believers is a good thing.  But, that's as far as it goes.  The church insisting to ram down my throat the idea that all have sinned and that this sin penalty still remains despite the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus is not something I can get behind {Paul To The Romans 3:23-24}.  What I CAN get behind is the truth of the evangel which proclaims that Christ became sin on our behalf {Paul To the Corinthians (2) 5:21}.  What I believe is that through the sacrifice of Jesus, sin has been put to death {Paul To The Romans 6:10}.  The fact that we were once all sinners should no longer concern us.  For through Christ Jesus we are a new creation {Paul To The Corinthians (2) 5:17}.  This is the lens through which I now see myself.  Not as one who has sinned, but as one who is in Christ {Johns Account 14:20}.  

Knowing this, that our old humanity was crucified together with Him, that the body of sin may be nullified, for us by no means to be still slaving for sin, for one who dies has been justified from sin.  Now if wed died together with Christ, we believe that we shall be living together with Him as also, having perceived that Christ, having been roused from among the dead, is no longer dying.  Death is lording it over Him no longer, for in that He died, He died to sin once for all time, yet in that He is living, He is living to God.  Thus you also, reckon yourselves to be dead, indeed, to sin, yet living to God in Christ Jesus, our Lord. 

Paul To The Romans 6: 6-11, Concordant New Testament

Turn on any news station and you will certainly get a crash course on the existence of differing opinions.  These are the different lens by which we view the world around us.  So it is with the lens by which we view the gospel.  While many continue to view it from the lens of the mainstream church, still others see the truth which is spoken of by Jesus and His apostles is scripture.  The apostle Paul speaks to our union with Christ {Paul To The Galatians 2:20}.  The mainstream church?  Not so much.  The church will indeed speak to being "Like" Jesus, but that is a far cry from being in Him.  I've found that listening to local sermon broadcasts has become like watching the tv news.  Within minutes, my lens can immediately notice the church proclaimed message which has been fostered for thousand of years.  I have no doubt that were I to step foot once again into the halls of the mainstream church that I would see the differences between the teaching and what I now know to be true in my heart.  To borrow a phrase from former, and future, president Donald Trump, this church message is indeed fake news.  Now, before I get branded as a heretic once again, keep in mind that I have gone through much meditation and soul searching in order to come to the place I am today.  I do not take the sacrifice of Christ Jesus lightly.  I will not nullify His death by proclaiming that I continue to remain in sin as the church continues to preach.  Who I am is in Christ Jesus. 

~Scott~ 

Why They Hate Us

 In whom the God of this eon blinds the apprehensions of the unbelieving so that the illumination of the evangel of the glory of Christ, Who is the image of the invisible God, does not irradiate them.

Paul To The Corinthians (2) 4: 4, Concordant New Testament 

It's not uncommon these days to come across many who do not have the same mind and heart for the Lord that we do.  Last night some pontificator on television described conservative Republicans as "The extreme Christian wing of the party."  If so, I wear that badge with pride.  But how is it that we got to this point?  How is it that we went from a predominantly Christian nation to one which ignores those values?  Well, I believe that these attitudes have always been present in our society, just not as noticeable.  Do I believe that these people hate those who practice Christianity?  Perhaps, but I also believe that those who practice Christianity have not done us any favors in how they conduct themselves.  When I say this, I am pointing the finger at myself as well.  How is it that we convert someone by telling them that they are headed for hell?  Of course, this has been a classic church tactic for centuries.  We seemingly seek to frighten the unbeliever into submission.  Of course, nowhere in this scenario do we see the love of the Father for His children.  We toss around the words of the apostle John like righteous Christian soldiers {Johns Account 3:16-17}.  But many of our devoted soldiers have overlooked the latter part of this passage.  For the Lord did not dispatch His Son to judge the world, but that "The world may be saved through Him" {Johns Account 3:17}.  What?  God will save all?  Yes!  We cannot ignore the fact that it is spoken in the scripture what the desire of the Father is.  That the world may be saved through Christ Jesus.  So, tell me again, dear Christian, who is it that you're sending to hell?  Who is it that you're judging?  For when we condemn others to that fiery end, we're engaging in something which Jesus Himself warned us against {Matthews Account 7:2-4}.  Is it any wonder, then, that Christians are not looked upon very kindly by some in our society?  They've been burned too many times by those professing to love the Lord.  Instead of speaking to the love of the Father, we preach the condemnation of those who do not believe!  

"So no, I'm not too big on religion...and not very fond of politics and economics either...and why should I be?  They are the man-created trinity of terrors that ravages the earth and deceives those I care about.  What mental turmoil and anxiety does any human face that is not related to one of those three?" 

William P. Young, The Shack 

In the movie Come Sunday, bishop Carlton Pearson is expelled from his church for daring to speak to the love of the Father.  His crime?  Proclaiming that there is no hell.  But wait, if there is no hell, what will be the final place of the wicked?  Let us consider the words of the apostle Paul to the church in Philippi.  That at the name of Jesus "EVERY knee shall be bowing" {Paul To The Philippians 2:10}.  In the end, every part of the Lords creation will acknowledge Christ Jesus.  Not only that, but that every tongue shall proclaim "That Jesus Christ is Lord" {Paul To The Philippians 2:11}.  How much better is this to proclaim to someone than they are going to hell?  Which portrays the love of the Father in a more truthful way?  Can it be a shock, then, that we are not seen as loving Christians?  Think of it this way, how is it that others see the Father when we speak to them of the hellfire that awaits them?  Exactly, they cannot help but see the Lord as a vengeful, punishing God.  Who would want to sign up for that?  For its part, the mainstream church incorporates this into the theology they preach.  Many is the pastor who speaks to our sin and punishment.  In reality, when Jesus proclaimed on the cross "It is finished!" He was not speaking to the end of His life but to the end of the sin nature of man.  For it is Jesus who became sin upon the cross that we would be saved {Paul To The Corinthians 5:21}.  Not simply for the chosen few, but that the world through Him would be saved.  

~Scott~ 

Spirits Among Us

 

Yet you are not in flesh, but in spirit, if so be that God's spirit is making its home in you.  Now if anyone has not Christ's spirit, this one is not His. 

Paul To The Romans 8: 9, Concordant New Testament 

I've always had a interest in what others would refer to as the paranormal.  That is, those spirits around us.  Growing up, I devoured almost every book on ghost stories that I could find.  One of my favorite authors was the famous ghost hunter Hans Holzer.  Holzer has authored more than a few books on hauntings around the world.  As I grew into more knowledge of our true identity in the Lord, I began to see my interest in the paranormal in another light.  The apostle Paul speaks to this truth in Romans where he describes our identity as not in the flesh, but in spirit {Paul To The Romans 8:9}.  Indeed, our creation into the likeness of the Father is indeed our true spirit image {Genesis 1:27}.  It was not until later that the Lord formed our flesh from the dust of the ground and breathed into us the breath of life {Genesis 2:7}.  So, how is it that this truth fits into the subject of the paranormal?  Simple, what if the ghosts, spirits, which others have testified to witnessing are indeed their own eyes being opened to something more?  Something which we usually have been blinded to.  The scriptures speak to those moments where our "Eyes are opened" {Numbers 22:31, Psalm 119:18, Lukes Account 24:31}.  What if these instances of our witnessing these spirit forms are none other than our eyes being opened to something which the Father desires us to see?  The author of Hebrews speaks to our being surrounded by a "Great cloud of witnesses" {To The Hebrews 12:1}.  Could this be in reference to those spirits around us?  I believe that it definitely is.  It is well known that we live in a dimension which we seldom see outside of.  That being the earth and all which surrounds us.  However, it is also well known scientifically that there exist other dimensions which we have not yet encountered.  The Father has closed our eyes to this.  Yet, just as the angels of the Lord appeared to people in scripture, these spirits which surround us are also made visible to our flesh eyes from time to time.  I would see this not as something evil, but as a revelation of the Father.  

Yet not only so, but we ourselves also, who have the first fruit of the spirit, we ourselves also, are groaning in ourselves, awaiting the sonship, the deliverance of our body. 

Paul To The Romans 8: 23, Concordant New Testament

In years past, I viewed the existence of the spirits around us as something to fear.  Not surprisingly, the countless books and movies on hauntings have a fear driven spin.  Ghosts, spirits, are something which are to be feared.  I get it.  The scriptures are filled with the reactions of fear which was felt when the Lord opened the eyes of His children to the angels.  Those seeing the empty tomb of Jesus that morning "Became afraid and inclined their faces to the earth" at the sight of the angel there{Lukes Account 24:5}.  This, of course, is a natural reaction to something which we do not understand.  Yet, the angel at the tomb of Jesus was not there to produce fear, but to share the wonderful news of the risen Christ.  His question was simple, "Why do you seek the living among the dead?"  What's so scary about that?  I have come to realize that there are indeed times in our lives when the Father chooses to open our eyes and/or ears to that which He desires for us to know.  I have experienced this revelation first hand some years ago following the death of my mother.  That revelation convinced me that she is not dead, but alive.  Alive in that spirit dimension which surrounds us.  That which includes the great cloud of witnesses.  This is something for us to fear, but to celebrate.  

Surely, in consequence, then, we also, having so vast a cloud of witnesses encompassing us, putting off every impediment and the popular sin, may be racing with endurance the contest lying before us. 

To The Hebrews 12: 1, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~ 

Strong In Jesus

 For all am I strong in Him Who is invigorating me --Christ! 

Paul To The Philippians 4: 13, Concordant New Testament 

I recall taking a class at the old church I was attending which required us to memorize a few selected scripture verses.  One of these verse was the apostle Paul's words to the church at Philippi on the source of our strength.  Lest we become over confident that we ourselves have "Seized the day" and powered ourselves through another hard situation, Paul reminds us that that's not the case at all.  For the source of our strength is Christ with Whom we are one {Johns Account 14:20}.  Yet, looking at my New King James version of the scriptures you might not get that impression.  Yes, we're told that it is Jesus who is our strength, but does not refer to our union with Him.  Simply that it is Christ who strengthens me {Philippians 4:13 NKJV}.  I'm not simply cherry picking translations of the word here, but pointing out that more than a few translations carry with them the ideas of those who interpreted them.  For this reason, I have decided to stick mainly to the Concordant versions of the old and new testaments.  With the Concordant, I find a translation that a bit more true to the original Hebrew and Greek texts.  This is the case with Paul's words in Philippians.  We understand that not only is Christ Jesus the source of our strength, but that we also share a union with Him {Paul To The Philippians 4:13}.  The King James may correctly proclaim that Jesus is the source of our strength, it fails to mention our union with Him which the writers of the Concordant reveal.  This is but one example of the differences in scripture between the New King James and the Concordant versions.  Yet it is a glaring example of those differences.  I would also assume that for someone who has never known the truth of our union in Christ, that there would be no differences in scripture.  So, in the end it comes down to how you see the Father and your relationship with Him.  

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see if they are of God, for many false prophets have come out into the world. 

First Epistle Of John 4: 1, Concordant New Testament 

A good friend recently pointed out the existence of yet another bible translation which I was not aware of.  This being the slave bible.  Now, history tells us that the African American slaves were also very spiritual in their beliefs.  Many would believe in the gospel preached in that day while others carried with them the religions of their homeland.  The hymns which these slaves would often sing amongst themselves often carried hidden messages to each other.  History aside, there is no doubt that the early slaves knew and worshipped the Lord.  So, it's really no surprise that there would come along a translation which would attempt to illustrate/profit upon this.  I have seen many bible translations, including a Hawaiian pigeon dialect bible.  Yet I believe that with each and every translation of the scripture that man produces, the meaning of the scriptures becomes more watered down.  For each and every person who sets out to create another "Version" of the bible for a specific group or language goes into the endeavor with their own pre set understandings of what that scripture should be.  If someone who sat through many years of mainstream church sermons were to write a version of the bible, it might be far different from my own.  For their lens is focused on the teachings of the mainstream institutional church.  For them, their strength is indeed Jesus, but they themselves and Christ are two different individuals.  For myself, I would adhere to the translation of the Concordant version because that is the truth of Christ which I believe.  I believe that it is the Lord Jesus Who is my strength, but I also believe that I am strong in my union with Him.  This is the truth I proclaim.  Of course, your version might be different.  

~Scott~ 

Diggin Up Bones

 I'm digging up bones

I'm digging up bones

Exhuming things that are better left alone

Digging Up Bones ~ Randy Travis 

The other day I found myself recalling some of the times I spent with my mother before she passed.  I do this from time to time despite the fact that she's been gone almost eight years now.  Some of the times were good, others not so much.  When I begin to think of her final days and the pain that she was in, I backtrack and think of what I might have done better to make her feel better.  I'm assuming that this is a normal reaction to someone who has passed away as well.  Yet, as I recall what the past hath wrought, I'm left with one conclusion.  It's over, let it be.  Part of our growing process is to examine those things which we have experienced in the past and to learn from them.  Some make good use of this while others do not.  As for myself, I've learned over time that I have never been alone in my life.  Despite the fact that I may at times feel this way, I've learned that I am in the Father and that He is always present in my life {Johns Account 14:20}.  It hasn't only been my memories of my mother which I have drug out from my memory, but also many of the bad choices which I have made, knowing I could have done better.  Again, experience is the best teacher.  I know that I am not alone in digging up the bones of past experiences, we all do this for different reasons.  Our memories can be both beneficial and detrimental.  Yet the underlying truth of our memories is that they represent what once was, not what will be.  Can we recall Jesus as He once was?  Perhaps, but we also recognize that Jesus is the same, He's never changed {To The Hebrews 13:8}.  The mainstream church is big on referring to us as sinners.  Listen to any pastor speak for very long and you're bound to hear the warnings of sin and how we need to repent from it.  Yet what many in the institutional church fail to recognize is that I'm not the guy I once was {Paul To The Romans 6:6}.  That I am a new creation in Christ {Paul To The Corinthians (2) 5:17}.  How can these two passages help us when we exhume the events of our past?  Because the past is gone and that which we have now is far better.  

For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is grave, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is agreeable, whatever is renowned - if there is any virtue, and if any applause, be taking these into account. 

Paul To The Philippians 4: 8, Concordant New Testament 

I have seen and heard many of the horror stories of those in the military returning from combat only to find that their war was not over.  When I was younger, I remember my uncle, a Vietnam veteran, walking the halls of the house in the late hours of the night unable to sleep.  Some recent data claims that on average, 17 military soldiers take their lives each day.  While this is a staggering number, consider the circumstances involved.  The military, by nature, exists to prepare those who volunteer to fight to defend themselves and their nation.  War is a ever present reality for all who join our nations armed forces.  When your time in the military is done and you're released once again into civilian life, that transition can be a tough pill to swallow for many.  Indeed, there are many who make the transition without a hitch, but there are also those who continue to fight the ghosts of the past.  The National Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C is visited by millions of people searching for the names of friends and loved ones who served.  Many trace the names of those they remember onto pieces of paper in memory those who have fallen.  I do not take this away from anyone, for it is a part of the grieving process.  But how do we know which of those old bones are good and which ones should remain buried in the past?  Well, I believe that any of those old memories which cause us pain and grief are better left alone.  I've made some pretty bad decisions in the past, but I DO NOT live with the memory of these instances.  I learned from them.  The most important thing I remember is that the old man I once was is dead.  What remains now is Christ {Paul To The Galatians 2:20}.  

Brethren, not as yet I am reckoning myself to have grasped, yet one thing - forgetting, indeed, those things which are behind, yet stretching out to those in front - toward the goal am I pursuing for the prize of God's calling above in Christ Jesus. 

Paul To The Philippians 3: 13-14, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~ 

A Convenient Scapegoat

" I visited every nook and cranny of the camp because I felt it my duty to be in a position from then on to testify at first hand about these things in case there ever grew up at home the belief of assumption that 'The stories of nazi brutality were just propaganda.'  Some members of the visiting party were unable to through the ordeal.  I not only did so but as soon as I returned to Patton's headquarters that evening I sent communications to both Washington and London, urging the two governments to send instantly to Germany a random group of newspaper editors and representative groups from the national legislatures.  I felt the evidence should be immediately placed before the American and British publics in a fashion that would leave no room for cynical doubt." 

General Dwight David Eisenhower upon viewing the German concentration camps

There has been a storm brewing in this nation recently.  A storm of discontent among those who call for the immediate end to Israeli military action against the Hamas terrorists who sucker punched Israel on October 7, 2023.  Chants of "Death to Israel" and "From the river to the sea" have echoed across the college campuses of the country.  Of course, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to understand that these liberal institutions for indoctrination often foment civil disobedience.  We watched this play out in the 1960's and 70's as the anti Vietnam war crowd demonstrated against the war in Southeast Asia.  Many a returning soldier has spoken to being harassed and spit on at various airports across the country.  Now, some Ivy League educated liberal judge may see these actions as free speech, but I see them as assault on another.  In my honest opinion, the Vietnam protests were just a scapegoat for a generation determined to change the moral fabric of our nation.  As surely as Adolf Hitler used the Jewish population of Europe for his own political gains, so are our current batch of college educated liberal young people using the Jewish population of the nation of Israel to get whatever it is they are attempting to gain.  This is nothing new.  Convenient scapegoats have been used for centuries to help people establish themselves as legitimate.  The Jewish people, The war in Vietnam, George Floyd, the list is a long one.  Still, one of the most frequently used scapegoats in history is that of the Jewish population of the world.  The Germans were not alone in their mistreatment of the Jews, for even here in America there is a history of mistreatment of the Jews.  We won't get into the weeds of the claim that these Jews are the "Lords chosen people."  Yes, the Father blessed the nation of Israel, but He also struggled with a stiff necked people at times.  I believe that all are the Lords children, for we share the Fathers image {Genesis 1:27}.  The apostle Paul spoke to our true heritage that we are all one in Christ Jesus {Paul To The Galatians 3:28}.  Knowing this truth, who would you therefore demonize in order to further your cause? 

In Whom there is no Jew nor yet Greek, there is no slave nor yet free, there is no male and female, for you all are one in Christ Jesus. 

Paul To The Galatians 3: 28, Concordant New Testament  

The Scottish poet Robert Burns once penned a poem entitled "Man's inhumanity to man."  In it he described the glory by which every day men did terrible things to their brethren.  From a Christian standpoint, one of the toughest questions to consider is how it is that the Father would allow such treatment of His children.  Yet we see this throughout our history.  The Jews, the Lords so called chosen people, have a history stained by the horrors of mans inhumanity to man.  The battlefields which litter the earth also testify to our own inhumanity to one another.  I do not profess to know the plans of the Lord, but I know enough to trust in Him that His desires and His plans are for the best.  Even in those times where we wonder how it is that a loving Father could allow such bloodshed.  To truly know the Father is to trust in Him no matter the situation.  In the midst of his torment, Job spoke to this as his wife called on him to "Curse God and die" {Job 2:9}.  Jobs response was spot on, and could speak to any difficult situation we experience, "Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity" {Job 2:10}?  So it is that placing the blame upon God for the actions of mans inhumanity towards his neighbors is to bark up the wrong tree.  It's not the Jewish people who inspired your own selfish motives.  

And man, whose heaven-erected face

The smiles of love adorn

Mans inhumanity to man

makes countless thousands morn 

Man's Inhumanity To Man, Robert Burns 

~Scott~ 

Who I Am

 

In Whom there is no Jew nor yet Greek, there is no slave nor yet free, there is no male and female, for you all are one in Christ Jesus. 

Paul To The Galatians 3: 28, Concordant New Testament 

I was going through a few health insurance forms the other day when I came across the obligatory question of my race and sex designation.  What made this interesting was the choice at the end, which simply stated "I identify as."  I contemplated a few well thought of responses before I just stated the obvious.  White male.  Of course, if you read the liberal news lately, and I try hard not to, you would get the feeling that most of the worlds problems are caused by white males.  Climate change, crime and even political uprisings.  Yes, the white male is responsible for a good many things.  Yet, on the official form I was forced to identify with someone whom society claims that I am.  The world as a whole sees me as a white male.  But is this who I truly am?  If not, who am I?  Who are we?  The apostle Paul shed some light on this question in his letter to the Galatians.  Paul proclaimed that we are not as the world sees us.  For there are no male nor female, nor white nor black, there is only Christ Jesus {Paul To The Galatians 3:28}.  More importantly, as Paul proclaims, we are all one in Christ.  For it has never been God who chose to separate His children into categories.  To classify His creation based on the color of their skin.  No, this was mans idea all along.  The late Martin Luther King Jr. once spoke of a day when men would be judged not by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.  That day has yet to come.  Instead, we base every aspect of our society on race and sex.  Sometimes even those lines have become blurred by mans efforts.  Case in point, the recent transgender efforts.  We now have women who identify as men and men who see themselves as women.  If you don't feel like a man, you can check that box and identify as a female.  I might be old fashioned, but I tend to look at things how Jesus sees them.  So, how does Jesus see someone who chooses to identify as a member of the opposite sex?  Well, I would say that Jesus views this person as he was originally created.  That being in the spirit image of the Father {Genesis 1:27}.  Of course, this might send many a liberal into fits, but it doesn't take away from the truth of who we truly are.  

Now he who joins the Lord is one spirit.

Paul To The Corinthians (1) 6: 17, Concordant New Testament 

I believe that what would help people understand who they truly are is to see themselves as we are, in spirit and not in the flesh {Paul To The Romans 8:9}.  Of course, this might be a tough ask for a lot of people who continue to view themselves by what they see with their eyes.  When I was younger, I tended to see God as resembling my own flesh.  After all, I was created in His image, right?  Wouldn't God look like me?  Unfortunately, that is the wrong way of seeing things in the spirit reality.  In the spirit reality of our true identity, we all bare the same exact spirit image of the Father who created us.  This is who we are in Him. It is the Father who breathed life into these flesh vessels which contain the spirit {Genesis 2:7}.  It is not our flesh which defines us, but the spirit of His very image.  So it is that someone who suddenly decides that no longer "feel" like a man, but as a woman is only fooling himself.  They are missing the point entirely.  This is one situation where what we see IS NOT what we get.  Despite the scriptures speaking to our spirit identity, many believers continue to live in a false reality.  That the flesh is who we are.  Maybe so, but it's not who I am.  

You are not in flesh, but in spirit, if so be that Gods spirit is making its home in you.  Now if anyone has not Christs spirit, this one is not His. 

Paul To The Romans 8:9, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~ 

In That Day

 In that day you shall know that I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you. 

Johns Account 14: 20, Concordant New Testament 

I discussed with a few of my married brothers a few years ago the phenomenon of how each spouse would know what the other was thinking at any given time.  This was not so much of a surprise for me, as from the scriptures I knew that the marriage covenant was a vow between two people.  However, once married, these two individuals become one flesh {Genesis 2:21-24}.  The fact that the name woman is derived from her very creation testifies to this truth.  "She shall be called woman, because she was taken out of man" {Genesis 2:23}.  Most believers are all too familiar with the creation history, how God caused a deep sleep to befall Adam and created Eve from the bone which He took from him.  It is no wonder, then, that two individuals brought together would be considered as one flesh.  So, what would the marriage covenant have to do, if anything, with our life in Christ Jesus?  Well, I use this as an example to illustrate what the apostle John spoke of.  That being our union with Jesus.  Jesus speaks to being in the Father, of our being in Him and Christ in us {Johns Account 14:20}.  This has been a topic which our group has discussed to some extent as of late.  What is it like to live IN Jesus?  Well, if you can picture living each and every day living and walking as Jesus then you may just have a good understanding of this truth.  The reason I used the marriage covenant as an example is because it closely identifies with this truth.  For I have never been a separate entity.  It has never been Jesus and then me, it was always about the union I share with Him.  When I see myself in the mirror, I see Jesus as well.  When I run into difficult situations in my life, I am assured that I share them with Christ Jesus Himself.  Indeed, whatever I think or do, I do as Christ.  This is my union with Him.  This is what Jesus referred to which is related to us through the apostle {Johns Account 14:20}.  As the apostle Paul proclaimed, I no longer exist, what remains is Christ {Paul To The Galatians 2:20}.  

That they may all be one, according as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be in us, that the world should be believing that Thou dost commission Me. 

{Johns Account 17: 21, Concordant New Testament  

For its part, the mainstream church has never quite grasped the truth of our union with the Father.  They speak in phrases such as "Being like" Jesus and "Walking with" Him.  There is, in fact, a huge difference in the way in which the traditional church sees our union with Jesus and the actual truth.  The church speaks to the lie of our still being separate from the Father.  That the best which we can hope for is to be close to Jesus.  Well, the very definition of the word union speaks to "Joining or being joined."  When we join a club, we are a part of that organization.  When we join a union, we become a part of it.  When we are united with Christ, we are a part of Him.  Nowhere in the definition of the word union is it intended that one would "Be close" to something.  In fact, if we are "Close" to Jesus, then we are not in union with Him.  This is the truth of our union in Christ, that we are now in Him.  It is also through the love and mercy of Christ that He chose me to be in union with Him {Johns Account 15:16}.  Yes, I may have chosen to believe in Jesus, but it is Jesus who chose me to be in Him.  Not to "Be like" Him, but to be in Him.  What confidence it gives us knowing that we live each and every day in Christ Jesus!  The world could not defeat Jesus, and it certainly cannot defeat we who remain in Him.  

"Not you chose Me, but I chose you, and I appoint you, that you may be going away and bringing forth much fruit, and your fruit may be remaining, that anything whichsoever you may be requesting the Father in My name, He will be giving it to you."

Johns Account 15: 16, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~