SECTIONS

( 1 )– LOOKING TOWARD THE END.

( 2 ) WHAT DO IT MEAN TO BE BORN AGAIN

( 3 ) JOHN 14:2 ( PREPARING A PLACE FOR YOU )

( 4 ) LET’S START PREPARING

I’d like to start this by looking at a verse of scripture the Apostle Paul wrote. ( 2 Timothy 4:5-7 ) But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. ( 6 ) For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. ( 7 ) I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.

The Apostle Paul actually asked Christ to be his Savior in ( Acts 9 ). The verse we just read appears to have been written some thirty years later. I would argue that, on the day that he was saved, he was not able to make that statement. I would say that no person, on the day of their salvation is ready to be offered. So, what happened to the Apostle Paul over the thirty years we are seeing in his life?

Look at your life. if something happened today and, you see that you are going to step out into eternity; are you prepared for that act no matter how it happens? Secular history teaches that the Apostle Paul was beheaded. That means that he did not die of natural causes. However, no matter what the circumstances are; how can you answer that question?

The point I’m making is that simply saying you are born again is not all it is to being ( prepared ) to stand before God. I understand that there are people that make ( death bed ) confessions and, I truly believe that they or, at least some of them actually get saved but, just how will they stand before God and, what does it all mean?

More than likely, if you are reading this and, you are born again. that is not your situation is it? You have been ( in God’s family ) for some time. So what is the difference in you than the day you got saved? Do you have the kind of relationship with Christ that you can make the same statements the Apostle Paul made? Do you think you will ever be able to make that kind of statement?

Salvation is a beginning of the preperation to be in heaven but that is not all it is to being all that God desires for each of us to be. People live their lives like it doesn’t really matter and, I realize that the Apostle Paul was speaking to a young preacher when he made the statement he made. However, what has God called you to do or be and, are you being to best you can at what he has called you to be?

God does not save anyone that he doesn’t expect to listen to him and do his will according to what ( He, Himself ) directs you to do, not one person. I might add that Church membership, tithing, Sunday School membership is not something that he directs you to do. Those things might be good to do but it places you no closeer to God’s will other that maybe giving you a spiritual education to use for his glory. And that, only if what you are hearing is inspired by God’s Spirit and, you are willing to learn his will.

Now, on the day that the Apostle Paul, the man that made the statements we are speaking of got saved, look at what the Holy Spirit said about him.

( Acts 9:13-16 ) Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: ( 14 ) And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name. ( 15 ) But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: ( 16 ) For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name’s sake.

On the day that the Apostle Paul was saved, he started on a journey, right here on this earth. Although every person’s journey might be somewhat different; aren’t we all looking to be able to say: ( my departure is at hand, I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith, and I am ready to be offered?

Seemingly, in our ( christian society ) we are not taught that today. We seem to have a mindset that; just being saved, as we call it or, saying we believe in Jesus Christ places every person on the same level with Jesus Christ. The Bible doesn’t even imply anything of that nature. As a matter of fact, if you have that mindset I’d check to make sure I was born again, make you calling and election sure, ( 2 Peter 1:10 ) Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:

I can see how that we truly need to understand what it means to be born again. I’m going to post this and seek to begin teaching this first and add God’s expectations of his children as the days and weeks go by.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE BORN AGAIN?

Wherefore, what does it mean to truly be born again? There is a couple or more ways we can teach this and seek to help any person, to see that there has to be a seperation point in our lives as it pertains even to our ownselves. Let’s first look at Jesus Christ. ( Lule 2:49 ) And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my father’s business?

Here, we see Jesus as under the protective wing of Mary and Joseph. He is about twelve years old and, they cannot find him. When they locate him, he let’s them know that it’s ( his Father ) that he must be obedient to. In ( Luke 15:17-19 ) And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger. ( 18 ) I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, ( 19 ) And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as on of thy hired servants.

In this picture, this young man went out on his own, spent all he had and, realized just how blessed he was to have a father to could care for him. When he went back he was willing to be ( as a servant ) instead as seen as a son. Can you see the different mindset there? His father still seen him as a son but, his heart was that of a servant.

We’ll look at one scripture in the Old Teatament to make the same point. I believe this is one of the best pictures of being born again. ( Deuteronomy 15:17 ) Then thou shalt take an awl, and thrust his ear unto the door, and he shall be thy servant forever. And also unto thy maidservant thou shalt do likewise.

In this picture the servanrt is actually free to leave and to go and do as he pleases. However, by choice he desires to stay with his master and work for him as long as he lives. We could look at the awl through the ear as a type of baptism.It just shows to the world to whom our loyalty is given.

( In my opinion ) the picture of Jesus Christ and being about this Father’s business is showing us the age we should be wise enough to began to yield to the leadership of God’s Spirit and began to pull away from our parents. Around the age of twelve our parents should be able to become more in a advisory role that actually demanding or controlling all a child might do or say. This is speaking in a totally spiritual mindset. If we are all we are suppose to be as parents and, instruct our children in spiritual obedience then, this would be the picture. Actually, teaching any child to live in this world should centered around the spiritual aspect of our lives.

In the young man in ( Luke 15 ) we see the inward change of that child. That young man’s father can be seen as an earthly father to the child and, the heavenly father after the child realizes his inward change. I. as being born again still live in the same flesh I lived in as a boy or, as alost sinner but, I now listen to and yield to a totally different voice. I can look at my own flesh or, my earthly father and say, I know am a servant to a greater person than you are. That’s not to say I don’t show respect to my earthly father but, he should know as well that his training me is leading to that spiritual aspect of my life.

That is my choice. I wasn’t forced to make that dicision. Just like the servant in The Old Testament I could and do as I please but, simply out of appreciation for all he has done for me, I yield to him. This is a sticking point when it comes to being born again. When the servant was set free by his master, that means he is free to do anything his pleases, go where he pleases, act like he pleases. Since he was given that freedom, he made a choice to stay where he was and to do his master’s will.

Since I have been born again, washed in the blood of Jesus Christ, I have been made free from the penalty of sin. That doesn’t mean I’m not a sinner does it? ( Ephesians 2:8-9 ) For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. ( 9 ) Not by works, lest any man should boast.

A gift is free to me. Jesus Christ had to buy that gift in order to give it to me but, to me it is free. If I have to quit sin in my life to ( buy that gift ) then it ceases to be a gift, I have to work for it. To be honest, we cannot stop being sinners. We can learn our sin and, one by one repent from those things in our lives but, we are now and always will be sinners.

When we are born again God’s spirit moves into our being, into our sin cursed bodies. When that happens we have that voice to direct our paths. He speaks above our own spirit or,the spirits of anything or anyone else. Our obedience is to that spirit and, if not then God has away to deal with our disobedience as well. However to say that we have to be obedient is taking away the fact to he says it’s a free gift.

Being born again is ( as defined). First, you are old enough to reason for yourself, you see what you are in your flesh being ( a sinner ). Since you see yourself and, with that knowledge, you desire to change, you seek to be ( about you Heavenly Father’s business ). You willingly give up your right to be you own self and, now live all for God’s glory.

Just as the slave that had been given his freedom but, made a choice to remain faithful to his master, at that, a hole was placed in his ear. When people seen that hole, they knew, this man is free to go and do whatever and wherever he desires but, by choice he does the will of his master.

We often confuse the the fact that we are sinners and, the art of being obedient to God’s Spirit. It’s easy to see how that we, being desirious to be pleasing to God would make it a choice to live as sin free as possible which, is pleasing to God the Father. The Bible says or teaches us that ( obedience is better than sacrifice ).( 1 Samuel 15:22 ) And Samuel said, Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.

Let’s look at that metaphorically. Let’s just say this servant or slave likes to smoke a pipe. While he was a slave to his master, the master would not allow him to smoke a pipe in his presence. Therefore the slave was not only obedient to his master in the responsibilities he told him to do but, he never smoked his pipe in front of him either.

Now, his master has granted him his freedom. He can go and do as he pleases. However, the slave makes a choice to stay with his master and, be obedient to his commands just as he always has. On the first day of his freedom when he comes to the master’s house he brings his pipe to smoke. The master sees that pipe and, the master realizes this man is there by choice, free to do just as he pleases. He tells the slave, free slave I might add; that it’s your choice to smoke that pipe, I understand that but, I want you to know, I still don’t like it.

You see, It’s one thing to be obedient and do the will of the father and, another to sacrifice. If the free slave truly desires to be pleasing to the master he will not only be obedient but also be willing to sacrifice. He will deny his flesh, that’s sacrifice. And, he also will do the will of his master, that’s obedience.

The whole point in giving that comparison is to show that we, in our sin cursed bodies can hear God’s spirit and, be willing to do what he ask us to do. However, just how effective will we be at doing his will if we still show forth the desires of our flesh? If I say to you; I’ve been born again, washed in the blood of Jesus Christ but, you still see me acting just as I always have then, my words possibly become to none effect. Look at this verse. ( Philemon 1:6 ) That the communication of thy faith become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.

If God, by his spirit within me asks me to witness to a friend of mine then , that friend needs to be able to see the Christ I say I know living within me. It’s not that we have to become sinless but, it’s what we truly desire to communicate and accomplish in our siritual life. What do we want the world to see in us as new believers?

If I used myself as an example; I’d say that the moment I got saved. I didn’t know anything about loving Jesus Christ or, even trying to seek his will. All of that had to be taught and received within my new birth and, spiritual understanding. I’ll confess that I learned to love him, his word and to seek his will. I’m still not perfect today but, I do love him and desire to please him.

We say we believe in Jesus Christ. Are we willimg to become him? to seek to be like him? That is what be ( born again ) is all about. I’ll finish this segment with this verse: ( Hebrews 12:1 ) Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

What is the difference in a weight and a sin? To begin to answer that; first, you must ask yourself. How do I desire to stand before God one day? In running a race, if you desire to win; you would not wear a back pack would you? you could, it’s nothing wrong with it. However, you would seek to be as light as possible on your feet. Spiritually, it’s just the same. It’s possible that there are things you do that could not be classified as sin but, what does people think about you doing those things? A weight would be something that would make your witness less effective for God’s glory. A sin would be something God tells you is not good to do.

The name of this article is ( Heaven ) A place we need to prepare to go. Being born again is only the first step in or, on that journey. Jesus prepared a place for us. ( Joun 14:1-6 ). He also sent his spirit to teach us, prepare us to live in that place. ( John 14:16-21 ( ( John 16: 7-15 ).

Just as the preparation of this life begin when we are born; the preparation for heaven begins when we are born again. My desire is to take this to a new level in, possible your way of thinking. Please understand that your teaching and knowledge of scripture can go much deeper than I can teach because it’s the Holy Spirit that teaches; I’m just the vessel. My desire is to give you something to think about that you might grow thereby. To show you the depth of God’s word and all we can see in one verse of scripture.

( 3 ) JOHN 14:2 ( PREPARING A PLACE FOR YOU )

( John 14:1-3 )

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. ( 2 ) In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you, ( 3 ) And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself: that where I am there ye maybe also.

What is the depth of what Jesus is saying here? Jesus made this statement in the previous chapter. ( John 13:33-35 ) Little children, yet a little while I am with you. Ye shall seek me: and as I said unto the Jews, Whither I go,ye cannot come: so now I say to you. ( 34 ) A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another: as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. ( 35 ) By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

Jesus is speaking to his disciples. He says this: ( as I said unto the Jews ). Are not all these men Jews? Therefore, what is different about these men that seperates them from the rest of the Jews? I also want you to notice three questions; asked by three different disciples as he is speaking to them. ( 1 ) Peter. ( Verse 36 ) Simon Peter said unto him, Lord whither goest thou? ( 2 ) Thomas ( John 14:5 ) Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? ( 3 ) Philip. ( John 14:8 ) Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us.

Neither of these men understand what Jesus is talking about. I pointed out that he ( Jesus ) is speaking to Jews and he also makes reference to something he said to the Jews. The differenece is that these Jews are believers. Although they can’t understand what he is explaining, they do believe. That puts them in a different group of people than just being ( a Jew ). I am a Gentile. I also believe. With that belief, it also puts me in the same group of people that Jesus is going to prepare a place for. I would argue that all of the disciples of Jesus, with the exception of Judas were believers. However, what is the difference in each believer today and the disciples on that particular day?

The primary difference in them and, a believer today is the presence of the Holy Spirit. Of,course these believers would soon have that same spirit and, that spirit would teach them just as he will teach each of us, if we are willing to listen. I often say this and, I will continue to teach it; praying that people will understand the point I am making. ( the toughest thing for any person to learn is ( how to ) listen to God’s Spirit and, also to yield to what he is saying.

I don’t want to forget about the diciples Jesus was speaking to in ( John 14 ) however, look at these verses: ( Galatians 4:1-6 ) Now I say, that the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from servant, though he be Lord of all; ( 2 ) But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father. ( 3 ) Even so we, when we are children, were in bondage under to elements of the world: ( 4 ) But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of woman, made under the law, ( 5 ) To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. ( 6 ) And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.

It’s a lot to teach here, as a matter of fact, it could be a lesson unto itself but, we see here that ( in the fulness of time ) ( God sent his son ). And, after that, he sent his spirit. We must understans what the Apostle Paul is teaching here. It is a picture of a child growing and developing until they are mature. However, when they mature they are not dead are they? It’s actually when we are mature that we began to truly produce the things that God desires for us to do.

Another point I often make is this. In to Old Testament; God the Father spoke to man. In the Gospel; God the Son spoke to man and after the gospels, starting in the Book of Acts, God the Spirit speaks to man. When Jesus was speaking to his disciples in John, they had no concept of ( His Spirit ) living within them. If you will continue to read in: ( John 14- 15 – 16 ) you will see that Jesus continues to teach them about that Spirit that he will send.

When Jesus said; ( I go to prepare a place for you ) to whom was he talking about? He was talking about ( all those that ever believed and trusted in him ). We’ll get back to that but; the picture is that the world is like a big body and, Isreal, God’s chosen people are the heart however, even all the heart did not believe. It’s the same picture of you and your body. You trust God with your heart and, then the rest of you body is suppose to submit to your heart. The Church today is the same way. Today the Church is the heart and the rest of the world is suppose to submit to that heart but, even all the Church doesn’t believe does it?

In the Old Testament, all Israel didn’t believe but, some did. Also we see where there were many Gentiles that believed as well. Let’s step out on a limb here and say something. Jesus, said: ( I go and prepare a place for you ). Is it possible that; that place was already built, the only thing that needed to be completed was the road or, path to get to that place? It’s two men and, something they both said that I’d like to show you here. ( 1 ) John the Revelator.( Revelation 21:10 ) And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mounntain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, ( 2 ) The Apostle Paul: ( 2 Corinthians 12:2-4 ) I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, ( whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth; ) such an one caught up to the third heaven. ( 2 ) And I knew such a man, ( whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth: ) ( 4 ) How that he was caught up into paradise, and hear unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.

The point I’m making is that the city is already there. The way to get to that city was and, is by the shed blood of Jesus Christ. He, Jesus Christ is the perfect sacrafice that had to be made for all that believe to be able to go to that city. That is, the Old Testamant believers and all the New Testament believers.

We read this when Jesus died on the Cross of Calvary. ( Matthew 27:52 ) And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, ( 53 ) And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many.

The perfect lamb has been offered and excepted by God the Father. The road to that city had been completed and now, every person can enter as soon as they ( fall asleep ) in their flesh. ( I believe ) that the City of God is right above us, we just can’t see it in our flesh. The Apostle Paul called that city ( paradise ). However, Abraham, being a ( Old Testament saint ) also was in a place that Jesus Christ called ( paradise ). ( Luke 23: 43 ) And Jesus said unto him, Veriy I say unto thee, to day shalt thou be with me in paradise. Jesus, here was speaking to the thief on the cross beside him. At that time they both were still living in the ( Old Testament ). That changed the second Jesus Christ died on his cross. Abraham was already in that placed called paradise. ( Luke 16:26 ) And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.

You can read the verses around this but, when Jesus died on his cross those saints in the center of the earth came out from where they were and went to the city that Jesus had prepared for all saints. Let’s also look in: ( Ephesians 4:8-9 ) Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. ( 9 ) Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth. ( 10 ) He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.

So, from the very beginning, its always been about preparing to live in a place that God has prepared for every person that believes. When we think or, are even taught that it’s just as simple as ( believing in Jesus Christ ) that can be deceiving within itself. We must understand what ( to believe ) is actually saying.

As we went through all of this. We see how God created the whole world, He chose his people, Israel, we call ed them the heart. God’s will, through that heart was to draw the world by his side. The whole time the true picture has been unfolding, Jesus Christ, the perfect lamb must be offered, his Spirit must come and, that Spirit must be received. Each person that receivs that Spirit must yield to that Spirit so that Christ can be seen within each believer, therefore drawing the world unto himself, meaning ( unto Christ.

Are you preparing to live in that city?

LET’S START PREPARING

Matthew 23:42 WATCH THEREFORE: FOR YE KNOW NOT WHAT HOUR YOUR LORD DOTH COME.

To whom is he speaking? It appears in this verse that someone is suppose to be ( watching ), seeing things as they unfold and, therefore warning their love ones, Church members of the coming conclusion.

I’d like to begin this with something we see with Satan and how he works. First of all, sin in you life; in the beginning looks and feels good. The Apostle Paul puts it this way. ( Philippians 3:18-19 ) ( For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: ( 19 ) Whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in shame, who mind earthly things ).

I suppose that one problem I have within me is I always seek to prove everthing I say with scripture. Here, I don’t know that it matters. If the people of our Churches, our pastors of the world we live in are not willing to open their eyes and, spiritually see what is happening then I suppose that we will simply walk blindly into what is right in front of us.

Do you realize that there is no such thing as perfection? Not in this world anyway, The reason for that is because there is no human being perfect. So when we build a government, Church or police department is never going to be perfect. Does that mean we simply forget it all because we can’t make it perfect? I suppose that the people that desire to do away with the police department believe that whatever they choose to take its place will be perfect. I disagree, as a matter of fact, it will be worse in the end. It might look good in the beginning but, it will change.

Let me share somethings with you. Do you realize that when Jesus Christ returns to take his bride ( the Church ) out of this world that for the next ( 42 months ) it’s going to appear to be perfect right here on this earth? ( Forty two months ) is half of seven years, In the middle of that time Satan is going to stand up and declare himself to be God and, demend that you worship him. We read that in ( Revelation ). I tell you this because ( in my opinion ) there is not many people ( watching ) having their spiritual eyse opened to events going in our world that point to this time. This world, our country is being left in the blind concerning the tactics of Satan.

So, let’s consider. The police department is not perfect, let’s throw it out. You can count on this fact. It’s the unrighteous that is seeking to dismount our system of law, not the righteous. If you consider yourself to be righteous then, you had better be careful who you are being led by. Although righteous people realize that all law enforcment is not perfect; they also realize that we just have to work continually yo make it better.

I’ve been saying for years that if this country has a desire to forget about Jesus Christ and the Bible that speaks of him then; once we create that vacuum we had better be careful what we allow to fill that vacuum and, it will be filled.

Just as citizens of the United States of America, what do you think of ( Sharia Law )? Would you be happy to replace the law we have and have that law instead? The next question might be, do you know what you are asking for?

This is where I stand and what I believe. There is a forceful move to get Sharia Law in this country. That cannot be done in normal procedures. Therefore, if the people that are looking to have that law enforced in this country can get it active in one major city then, that’s a start. Once that law is in place in one city, all they have to do is make it appear to be better that what we have, sell people in that city on how it works and, they know other ciries will follow. After while, the people of this country elect a president that thinks like they do and, they have control of the military.

In our country, we have a constitution. That constitution grants the presiding president the authority to send our military in and stop such actions. However, if he does that. then who is going to appear to be the villian? Can you see how Satan works?

At this time, our president is in a ( catch 22 ). If he, or our leaders don’t stop this act, the leaders of that group will see to it that it works very well and is very peaceable until, the time they see they can completely take over. If they do stop it and seek to bring things back to ( constitutional law ) then simply seeking to do the ( right ) thing becomes a problem. Such as, if they that lead in choas disagree with any judgement no matter what ( our law ) says, what are they going to do? Haven’t we already seen?

The Bible says in ( 1 Thessalonians 5:3 ) For when they shall say, peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child, and they shall not escape.

You or, any group of people can have ( peace and safety ) without righteousness as given by God the Father but, also with that type of ( peace and safety ) sudden destruction comes.

I say all these things because the we need to understand how Satan works through those that are willing in this world. ( 2 Corinthians 2:11 ) Lest Satan should get the advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices. We also know he comes as an ( angel of light )( 2 Corinthians 11:14 ) And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.

Once they get one city to defund to police or do away with the law as we know it the the next few years will seem to be almost perfect. That mindset will grow and be seen as good. As a nation, we are ignorant of his devices because we haven’t been taught what to look for. Our young people are very vaurnable to what is unfolding and they are looking for that one person that can make them feel secure.

So, what is the answer? The truth is, I don’t know that it is an answer for our country. I do know that we have been under to protecting hand of God for many years, let’s be honest; we took advantage of that and abused his very blessings upon us. If there is an answer for our country and, the possibility of it ever being what it once was as a nation led by the hand of God under the laws and liberty of God then, that answer is in the shed blood of Jesus Christ. We must, as a nation, a people stand on his principles and concepts, he must be preached from the pulpits of our Churches and his transforming power must take place in his people and share with other aross this land.

The time of ( playing Church ) is over. We ar surely about to find out who truly loves him and what price we are willing to pay for his glory. Consider; for the last few weeks we have not been able to go to Church because of a simple virus. No big deal, we’ll just watch it on our phones or T.V. What happens when you are seen with a Bible or, if you speak in his name, you might be beaten, put in prison or killed?

( 2 Peter 1:19 ) We have also a more sure word of prophecy: whereunto ye do well that ye ( TAKE HEED ), as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:

I say once again, you don’t have to believe me or see this the way I do. However, we are living in the lasts days. We, as a nation are being overflowed with evil on every side and, because of our neglect to listen to God’s Spirit and yield to that voice, a price is about to be paid.

I beg you, even if you disagree with me, please, open your spiritual eyes and look at our surroundings, seek change in your life and also, lift up someone else to Jesus Christ.

In the very near future, you will be glad you did!

Marshall Clayton

2 Timothy 1:7

Actually, I written more than one book. Only one is published. I find it too expensive to go through the process and, at least for me, very little in return financially. However, since I don’t write for the money anyway; I just as soon give what I write to anyone that has a desire to read what I might write. All the writing I do is spiritual teaching with a desire to help people prepare themselve to stand before our Lord one day. I always try to leave my opinion out of what I teach and allow God’s word to make the points instead of just my opinion.

Now, as I say that, you could look at what I’m saying in the title as ( My Opinion ). And, for the sake of honesty , you would be correct. If you choose to read this book and put up with the fact that what I’m saying about this one book in the Bible and, One chapter in the Bible I believe it will help you to have a better understanding of why I wrote about these two places in scripture.

The book that I’m offering is titled ( One Chapter and One Book ) It relates to the fact that we are on a journey through this life and, we all must stand before God. As believers, it will be at the ( Judgement Seat of Christ ). ( Romans 14:10 )( 2 Corinthians 5:10 ) The question I seek to answer is ( how do we stand there )?

Please understand, I don’t consider myself to be an author. I know very little about the english language although that is the language I speak. Paragraphs, punction, and the use of words all are just as I might be talking to you. With all that being said. That doesn’t diminish my desire to help people to see and know truth. My love for the gospel and the passion for truth has nothing to do with my education level. Please also know I done the best I knew how as far as editing the book.

I can either send it in a word document or, just in a simple email. So, if you follow me and desire a copy, send me your email address and the way you desire to receive it and I’ll send it. You can also feel free to share it with as many people as you like.

All for God’s glory !!

Marshall Clayton

2 Timothy 1:7

John Calvin was a man that lived in the fifteenth century. As far as I know he was born again. We know he was a preacher of the gospel. He is the author of the ( five points of Calvinism ).

Let’s look at these five things:

( 1) — Total Depravity: He believed that every person was totally depraved, we, as people cannot help ourselves. We are seperated from God. There is nothing good about us.

( 2 ) Unconditional Election — He believed that God, before the foundation of the world chose some people to be elected for salvation.That could not be changed, if you were chosen, you were going to receive salvation.

( 3 ) Limited Atonement — He believed that Jesus Christ died for the elect alone, no atonement was provided for the reprobate.

( 4 ) — Irresistable Grace — He believed that God’s grace is applied to those that are supposed to be saved and, that grace cannot be resisted.

( 5 ) Perserverance of the Saints — He believed that once grace was applied to the saint,; nothing in heaven or, on earth could seperate that person from that grace given by God.

My question to you is; do you agree with any of these points? As I look at these five points; I can see two that I agree with and, depending on how it is defined, maybe three. There are people that look at ( irresistable grace ) this way. If you are sitting in a Church and, the word of God is being preached under the inspiration of God’s Spirit, if conviction comes on your heart, yor cannot stop that conviction from happening. I can see that point, it it’s defined that way.

Was John Calvin born again? You can research what I’m about to say to make sure I’m correct. I understand that John Calvin and, even others that stood on different beliefs in that day actually had people killed that didn’t believe like that did. I ask you again, was John Calvin or, any of these people born again, did they know Jesus Christ as their Savior?

I, personally believe they were. If I’m going to give John Calvin credit for anything; it would be this. He caused me to study these five points and come to a resolve of where I stand as a believer. In this world today, these things run the spectrum of what and how they believe, Some, believe all five points mentioned here, some, none of them and, still others that believe anywhere from one to five, and any mixture thereof.

I’m going to use a friend of mine as an example of John Calvin. You have to first understand, I didn’t know John Calvin, I’m just using this as an example. My friend believes all five points mentioned here, Every time we get together, he spends the whole time trying to convince me he is correct, I needed to change my way of thinking. Is that how John Calvin was? By the way; he is one of the elect, he was chosen by God from the beginning of the world. The point I’m making is; do we get so involved in trying to cause people to look at things just as we do that; we forget to open our eyes to what scripture truly teaches?

John Calvin is not my enemy, neither is my friend. However, If I close my spiritual eyes and allow myself to be blinded by my own ( limited knowledge ) of scripture then, I’m I not my own enemy? I confess, as a believer, I don’t know all it is to know and, you can teach me. Within that statement, I must be willing to hear what you say even if I disagree with you.

Look at this verse: ( 1 John 2:10 ) He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now.

There are people, maybe John Calvin was one of them, they are in darkness not because they are lost without Christ but, simply because they will not hear or see truth. If I’m blinded, I never want it to be because of hate, because of my unwillingness to hear my brother. Teach me, O’ Lord and, use my brother to do it. Of course, that also goes both ways; my brother has to also listen to me. However, It’s not I or my brother that is correct is it? We are both wrong. Even John Calvin is not wrong because I disagree with him. If he’s wrong it’s because of what the Spirit of God teaches.

I read behind a lady the other day that made this statement: ( we are more easily influenced by what other people say than we think ). She is absolutely correct. Look at this verse of scripture: ( John 16:13 ) Howbeit when he, the spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.

Consider this as well: ( Amos 8:11 ) Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord:

( I believe ) that this one thing I’m about to say truly reflects where we, as a people are today. The famine today is a famine of ( hearing the words of the Lord ). We are not taught how to do that. Although God uses, men, the Bible and possibly many other ways to reveal himself,; that is not how we hear him. We hear him through and by his Holy Spirit.

We are taught to conform to the mindsets of religions, denominations, groups such as: dispensationists, Covenant Theology, New Covenant Theology and, the list goes on an on. However, we are never taught to simply learn to be sensitive to the voice of God as we study his word.

I started this off with the mention of John Calvin. The reason for that is that he started a mindset. He is not the only one that does that, not in his time nor, in our time. In most cases; the people that set out to create mindsets are well organized or, are determined to be seen and heard. Most of them pay little attention to the Spirit of God. Consider this; John Calvin come up with the five points of Calvinism. We still talk about those five points. We come to a resolve to believe anywhere from one to five of those points. Well. tell me, what has John Calvin or those five point got to do with the Spirit of God within you? Would you mind explaining to me what those five points have to do with the entirety of scripture? Is that all it is to God’s word? Was John Calvin led by God’s Spirit to form those five points?

Well, I want to start a mindset also. The first thing I want you to do is to be ( born again ). My desire is for the Holy Spirit of God to draw conviction on your heart that you might see yourself aa a sinner and, ask Jesus Christ to come into your heart, in the form of God’s Spirit and birth you into his family.

The second thing I want you to do is ( forget that I or, any other person ) had anything to do with the very fact that God just gave you new life. Right now, you come to an overwhelming resolve that you need to be sensitive to the voice of the Spirit of God. To the understanding that he and, he alone can teach you truth. While men or, people like me have very good intentions, we often simply get in the Spirits way and hinder real spiritual growth.

The third thing I desire for you to do is ( to realize you are a new born babe in Christ ). With that being said, you must admit that babes know nothing and, are easily influenced by the minsets of men. With that understanding, resovle to be fed on the sincere milk of God’s word. As defined, that means that no man or person drives what you think or do but, that your only true friend is God’s word, the Bible. Tell people you are born again, share the name of Jesus. I add that because ( I believe ) that doing so will encourage you to study and learn all you can about him.

The fourth thing I desire for you to do is ( Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. )( 2 Timothy 2:15 ) While God uses people, pastors, teachers, preachers, even individuals to be vessels for his glory; every one of those people are ( sinners in their flesh ) no different that you and, we all can be wrong in what we might say or teach. We might all have the best of intentions but, at our best, we are still sinners, like it or not. The Bible you hold, and the Spirit within you is your educator. Every other book, writing or person that it is should be taken as a grain of salt, unless you can prove what they say, inspired by God’s Spirit. It’s far better to be a babe in Christ, seeking truth than to be an educated spiritual fool.

The fifth thing I desire for you to do is ( Let the light of Jesus Christ shine from within you ). Go to battle each day with the army, spiritual knowledge you have and, add to that daily. We have to understand this; If I lift up myself, my Church, my belief, my doctrine, those things never saves anyone. Jesus Christ and, the fact we lift him up is what draws people to salvation. ( John 12:32 ) And I, If I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. I completely understand that we can see that verse in two ways; one way would be lifted up on the cross. However, if we lift up his name and share his gospel, that is what draws peope to salvation.

The sixth thing would be ( prepare yourself ). In the end, it doesn’t matter what John Calvin, Marshall Clayton or, any other person thinks or teaches. It doesn’t matter what denomination or religion you are a part of. What matters is your faith in Jesus Christ, your knowledge of him. God has given us a life time to know him. I have no desire spending my spiritual lifetime arguing about who is right and who is wrong. I want to ( Know Him ) and the ( power of His Resurrection ). We all one day will come to the end of our journey on this earth and, we will stand before him prepare or not.

I’m going to close this with something ( I believe ). You don’t have to believe this but, I do. The Bible tells us in ( Revelation 19: (13-14 ) And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name was called the Word of God. ( 14 ) And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. It also says in ( Revelation 20:11 ) And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.

( I believe ) that, on that day, we as the bride of Christ, just like any good wife, will be standing behind Christ. We see that we come back with him. As Church members we have the responsibility to share Christ with this world. What happens if we don’t? At the ( Great White Throne of Judgement ) as each person walks up to be judged by him, they will see us a well. Jesus Christ, as our bridegroom did all he could do to bring about the salvation of every man. What did we do? If a lost person walks up to that throne to be judged by Christ and, he or she sees me; what will he be able to say about me? Will he say I shared Christ with him or, will he look at me and declare ( you could have told me but; didn’t. )

Our responsibilities as born again believers are far reaching. That involves a great study in God’s word but, most of these things we are responsible for are far greater than the petty things we argue about. What is the worth of one soul? How can we measure to value of our relationship with Christ or what can be done through our walk with him? Consider the ( resurrection of Christ ). Before we can see and know the complete power of that one resurrection; everything in God’s creation will have to be complete.

What is the value of your ( resurrection from the dead )? Can you see how, as it relates to Christ, that it will take the completion of all things to see its complete value? If I win one soul to Christ then, how many others can be won just because of that one?

A good brother in Christ taught me many years ago. ( Any man can count the seeds in one Apple ). But, ( no man can count the apples in one seed ) that is, unless that seed is aborted.

Lord, I ask you to bless the teaching of your word, no matter who is doing to teaching.

Marshall Clayton————————– 2 Timothy 1:7

Phiilippians 1:15-19

Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will: ( 16 ) The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds. ( 17 ) But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel. ( 18 ) What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice. ( 19 ) For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayers, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ.

What would you consider to be the center of the gospel of Jesus Christ? What does it take to truly be born again? ( In my opinion ) true salvation has its center on Jesus Christ and him crucified, buried and the fact that he arose from that grave. He lived a sin free life, never sinned. In Him and Him alone do we put our faith. I say that without contention or envy, even without strife. I truly wish God’s will on all that believe.

I don’t offer that as an opinion but; rather that it’s my opinion that it is the center of being born again. I’m sure that if we, as in a group of believers were to sit at a round table we could even debate; what the actual center might be but, my point is that we are all preaching and teaching Jesus Christ and Him crucified. That, in itself becomes a great asset toward the salvation we seek.

My passion, my burden is the fact that there are so many people that are members of our Churches and are not born again, they have never been saved. While I am not a judge of any man, that doesn’t mean that I’m not concerned. The Bible teaches us this fact in many areas. For instance, when I see people that old things have not passed away and, all things are not becoming new, that concerns me. I can see how a person can be deceived in thinking that simply believing in Jesus Christ is salvation and that is not all it is to salvation. The Bible says that the devils believe, and tremble. ( James 2:19 ) At any rate, that is my burden therefore, I can be hard on Church leaders because my desire is for Church people to be sanctified, set apart for the glory of Jesus Christ. The Church is the one place a sinner should be able to come and meet Christ, see Christ above all. And, every person that represents any Church should represent Christ outside the doors of that building.

Just as it is the resposibility of the Holy Spirit to draw a sinner to Jesus Christ it’s also his responsibility to convince each believer of truth. Since or, if we have Jesus Christ as our center then, you are not my enemy nor will you ever be. There are many people that see things differently that I do but, we have the same passion for sinners and salvation. For instance, there are those that believe you can lose your salvation, I happened not to believe that. We both love Christ and are witnesses in his name and we are not enemies. We are on the same team.

Whether the issue is, falling from grace, speaking in tongues, the rapture, tribulation, baptism, the Lord’s supper or, what Church you go to, it doesn’t matter. It will take the Holy Spirit to teach every person of their error in truth, including me. When truth is revealed to me by the Holy Spirit then, it becomes my responsibility to yield to that truth and change what I am teaching. With that being said, we are not enemies and, the people that are lost shouldn’t ever see us as such.

I do however, also realize that it can all work together for the salvation of the sinner. There’s a fine line between two believers being seen as people that are concerned for the lost and two that are fighting among each other.

I try my best to choose my battles. and that, because we are on the same team. If I fight I battle that I cannot win and, if I win, what have I won? To whom is the profit? However, If I win a battle but lose my ability to witness to some that are lost then, who actually won that battle?

Satan often wants to put God’s children at odds because he knows when we argue, he wins. As a born again believer, I have no desire to win anything. My desire is for God’s Spirit to win in the heart of the sinner, to teach what I believe to be true and, to allow God’s Spirit to us me for his glory. I truly appreciate every person that teaches for God’s glory, no matter what avenue they choose to use.

I believe in the power of the Holy Spirit. When he has a voice from any person then, he can win. I want to encourage every person that seeks to exhault Jesus Christ to keep up the good work for his Glory. Flood the web, the television, the radio, the streets and highways, the mountains and valleys with all his glory.

When we lift up his name then; the Holy Spirit can teach each of us in all things and, sinners will be saved above all.

Marshall Clayton

2 Timothy 1:7

As we consider these questions’ I’d like to go back to an Old Testament book and look at a verse of scripture. ( Ezra 2:63 ) And the Tirshatha said unto them, that they should not eat of the most holy things, till there stood up a priest with Urim and with Thummim.

According to what I can find, the definition of these words are as follows: ( 1 ) Tirshatha – The Feared. ( 2 ) Urim – Light. ( 3 ) Thummim – Truth.

What had happened in the book of Ezra; the Nation of Israel, God’s chosen people had been in captivity for some years. While they we in bondage they had began to chose their own direction and, do things that were not seen as following obedience. Now they are back in their home land and, they want to resume their normal activities just like it had always been.

What the prophet is telling them is that; we need a leader, someone that you fear, This leader has to have light and truth on him. These things, since we have strayed, need to be in place to correct us.

If I can, I’d like to share some verses from another book in the Old Testament. ( Amos 7:14-15 ) Then answered Amos, and said to Amaziah, I was no prophet, neither was I a prophet’s son; but I was a herdman, and a gatherer of sycomore fruit. ( 15 ) And the Lord took me as I followed the flock, and the Lord said unto me, Go, prophecy unto my people Israel.

We see in these two scriptures that there were men that sought to, being led by God the Father to shed light on the truth. We could also argue a couple of things. ( 1 ) Why should anyone listen to either of these men, who are they? ( 2 ) Israel has no one to fear, at least as far as they can see.

The truth is, today, just as it was then; it is someone to fear. There is light and, there is truth. The question is; do we fear, and what? We can argue that God’s people of that day did fear but, that fear was not of the hand of God. So, what did they fear? They feared losing their priviledge of doing as they chose to do. They feared having to be submissive to someone else, to listen to someone else. Ezra said this, I am a herdman and, I gather sycomore fruit. Why should the Nation of Israel listen to what he has to say?

I want to point out a couple of verses that seems to be where we are as a society today. ( 1 Timothy 4:1-2 ) Now the spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to suducing spirits, and doctrines of devils, ( 2 ) Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;

I’m going to come back to these verses in a little while but, first I want to share some things with you; beginning with this verse. ( Matthew 13:45-46 ) Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: ( 46 ) Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went out and sold all that he had, and bought it.

As a born again believer, I fear God. That fear is the kind of fear that draws me close to him and, never drives me from him. My desire is to be very sensitive to his Spirit that lives within me as I listen to other people, speak, read what is written about him or, hear the preaching of his word. I don’t want to have my own way or will but, rather to be yielded to him. My desire is to be like Amos ans Ezra. I’m not a prophet but, I do seek to know his truth and not to be goverened by the things of this world.

A few months ago, I emailed my pastor. I asked him what was the difference in the ( Holy Spirit ) and the ( Holy Ghost )? His reply was that there wasn’t any difference. So, I replied; why are both terms in scripture then? I told him ( I believed ) it was a difference and, I desire to know that difference. I only tell you that story because I believe that we can be that sensitive to the Spirit of God, so sensitive that even points that minor; in scripture can teach us things about the God we serve.

I showed you a verse in Matthew about finding the ( pearl of great price ). Once you find that pearl then, you forget all the rest, just to have that pearl. I realize that you might see that verse a little different but, you, more than likely can see my point as well.

I believe there is a truth and, we can find it. That truth is not in my pastor, nor is it in me. Now we both might be able to reveal that truth but, we are not the source of that truth. We are only vessels that God can use to reveal truth. Do you remeber the verses in ( Ezra ) Tirshatha – one to be feared: Urim – Light: Thummim – Truth? Well, he is here now. We call him the ( Holy Spirit ). The only way that he ( God’s Spirit ) can be seen is when we allow Him to be seen in us. We must become the ( Ghost of God ). God being revealed in our flesh.

That truth can be found. It is revealed to each born again believer, by the Spirit of God from, the Word of God. Remember the vereses in ( 1 Timothy )? He tells us there that ( God’s Spirit ) expressly tells us that in the ( latter days ) some would depart from the faith. These would give heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils. Speaking lies in hypocricy, their conscience ( seared ) with a hot iron.

We could cover a lot of territoty here and, most of what I might say; you might disagree with. However, we have reached those ( latter days ). We have crossed the line where we must trust the Holy Spirit and him alone. We must deside and, stand firm on: What is God’s word? Is God pleased with every book that is called a Holy Bible? What is a Church? What is a Pastor? Do we really have Sunday School teachers?

Our Bibles, our Churches, our pastors and, our Sunday School teachers have been seared with a hot iron and, in most cases, they don’t even know it. ( SEARED ) pressed down firm, straight lined. Where we stand is correct, makes no difference what the word of God says. And, if any person questions that then, they automatically become the enemy.

Do we even seek truth? Do we even desire for the Spirit of God to show up in our Church services or in our Bible study? Do we really desire him in our homes, how about in our hearts? We could ask a question; when is salvation real or, just how real is yours? Far too often we seek to change who God truly is by designing our own Jesus Christ, choosing our own denomination or, in some cases building our own word of God. Have we become so ( seared in our conscience ) that we can’t see that?

As I teach, seek to instruct, you must understand, you do not have to believe or agree with anything I say. However, if we are to grow spiritually we must be willing to see where we are wrong as revealed by God’s Spirit and, we must be willing to die to ourselves; even if it means losing all our family and all of our friends.

You look around in you Church, you Sunday School class, your home, you Bible. See how many things you can find that have been seared with a hot iron and, God is not in. Are you willing to do just that or, do you fear what you might truly find?

Truth can be found by you. It can be revealed by you. you can become a very powerful vessel for Jesus Christ if you truly seek to know him. You must be willing to hear him that you fear, seek light and truth.

Marshall Clayton

2 Timothy 1:7

There’s an old movie that I recall that I think will start this point off well. Doctor Jykle and Mister Hyde. If you have never seen the movie it showed two completely different sides of the same man. Isn’t, what we call Christianity somewhat the same way? We live in a body of sinful flesh but, at the same time we have the actual Spirit of God living within this sin cursed body. The objective is to allow the Holy Spirit of God to be seen above the sinful flesh that we live in.

On of the first and foremost problems I see with this scenario is how each individual defines what the spirit of God is and how we react to the voice we hear from within. My quest here is to place thought on what is truthfully real whether we like it or not. One of the first things that pops to my mind is a verse of scripture we see in the Bible. ( 2 Peter 1:20-21 ) Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. ( 21 ) For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

If you will notice; the key words here are ( Holy Ghost ). That is singular, it’s not but one. Therefore, if we say we are born again, washed in the blood of Jesus Christ then, that one single Spirit is going to teach each of us the very same thing, if we are willing to hear him. There is no private interpretation., meaning; I cannot create or form my own opinion, neither can any religion or denomination. Do we have a problem with that fact? First of all, let me ask you a question. Right this minute, do you feel you are where God would have you be in a spiritual light? Do you ever consider that fact? Most people, Just like me, have a mindset that if every person were just as they were then the world would be perfect. We don’t say that but, we live like that would be the case. In reality, within that statement lies the true problem. All of us are just alike, there is no difference. Help me LOrd, to realize that if all men were like me, then all would be sinners.

I often use the metaphor of a choir. A new choir director takes charge of the choir we are in. He lays out a set of guidelines that we must obey if we desire to sing in the choir he directs. We all think about it, realize we truly want to sing in the choir so, we decide to submit to his guidelines. Neither one of us are any closer to God, as led by God’s Spirit are we? We simply know what it takes to satisfy a choir director. Isn’t the average Church setting the same way? We all look good to one another but we are not led by God’s Spirit. We are uniform but not in unity of the Spirit of God. It’s not that it’s not a good thing to have guidelines to go by but, rather that we understand where we are in the spiritual light of the gospel; that’s important. Far too we often we leave that aspect of our life completely untouched, as long as we are pleasing the people around us.

I once told a young person that had parents that were faithful to the Church they attended, if you, as a young person ever choose to get right with God then, your parents or the Church they attend probably won’t like you very much. That wasn’t meant to be derogatory toward his parents or anyone but rather, to shed light on the general mindset of most people.

I see this as a great problem within our societies. We can’t see the spiritual darkness that we are in because we confuse the satisfaction with others with the mindset of God, we don’t know the difference. I’m afraid we are in for a rude awakening when we stand before God.

Let me share a true story with you to make the point. As a child growing up, my mom took my sisters and I to a little local Church. My dad hardly ever went with us and, he also had some characteristics that were not very Godly. These things were defining. It was a contrast between what my mom was and what my dad was. My mom was a leader in our Church, even became Sunday School superintendent at a later point .

As we all grew up we began to visit another Church as their children. This Church was Spirit filled and the pastor preached with the power of God on him. Finally, my whole family actually became members of this Church, even my dad.

One night in a business meeting, my mom started to raise her hand to gain the floor. My dad softly laid his hand on hers and said to her in a soft voice; I’ll handle this Margaret. For the very first time in my life my dad had began to take the spiritual helm of the household. My mom, well, she didn’t like that, even missed the next service. I stopped by to visit her the night after she missed service and told her I missed her at Church last night. I could tell she was still upset.

This is what I told her: I said mom. I’ve seen the time you would give your right arm to see what you seen last night. Now that it’s happened, dad has began to be a spiritual man, you don’t like the fact you don’t have that control. I also said; I tell you what, you just stay at home if that’s what you want to do, I just walked out and left. The next meeting she was back in Church and never missed again that I remember. I’m sure there were struggles but it’s a learning process to seek to be in God’s will. The point is we are satisfied with saying we are Godly as long as we don’t have to change anything, You see what I mean?

One might ask if I believe it’s wrong for a woman to speak in Church? Actually that’s beside the point. I really don’t see a problem with it but, even if I said I did that neither makes me right or wrong. It’s the leadership of the Spirit that My desire is to get you to see. If you simply chooses sides with what I think you still don’t know how God fells about the issue. That’s why I say we become our own worst enemy. We never truly seek to know truth. We fall into the trap of the world and simply follow what a pastor teaches or, a denomination or religion.

What is the beginning of the cure for the sickness we have? It is the understanding that we have a disease. That disease is sin. If we cannot see ourselves in the condition we are in then we can’t see that we need help. Once we see our sickness then we must understand where we find the cure and seek that cure. We become our own worst enemy when we look as good as everyone around us and assume we are cured of the sin disease because of what we see or hear around us.

( Luke 18:11 -13 ) The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. ( 12 ) I fast twice a week, I give tithes of all that I possess. ( 13 ) And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.

We all are just like the publican, beginning with me. This publican seen very well the sin disease he had and understood the cure for that disease, so to speak. The Pharisee had become: ( His own worst enemy ). Not because the cure for his sin disease could not be cured but, because he couldn’t his need for a cure.

On a personal note; I’ve been on both side of that coin. Even now, as a born again believer; I have self righteous tendencies. I am nothing more than a publican, unworthy of anything from God the Father. However, it’s very easy to become ( my own worst enemy ) because of the weakness of my flesh.

I love the study of God’s word and, I also love to teach his word. Does that mean that I’m always correct in what I teach? The truth is; the more I study, the more I realize that I don’t have all the answers. Remember? I said that if you are born again, then you have the same Spirit within you that I have. That means, you can teach me as well. The day that I stop hearing you and researching what you have to say is the day I once again ( become my own worst enemy ).

Sometimes, God the Father, by his Spirit has to gently lay his hand on mine and remind me, Just wait a minute son, I got this. It’s nothing wrong with having a great passion for sharing God’s word and seeking truth but we, ( I ) must never forget that God, through his Spirit is the only true teacher and he knows all the answers. I just need to stop being ( my own worst enemy ), die to myself and, hear him, especially when he is speaking through someone else.

I’m a piece of clay on a potter’s wheel. I often teach that salvation is in all three tenses. Past, present and future. I have been saved from the penalty of sin. It’s under the blood of Christ. That’s ( past tense ). I am being saved from the practice or presence of sin in my life. ( present tense ) And one day I will be with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, my salvation will be complete. ( Future Tense )

As I seek to ( not ) be ( my own worst enemy ) I am often reminded of these verses. ( Romans 12:1-3 ) I beseech ye therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is our reasonable service. ( 2 ) And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. ( 3 ) For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

As I seek to yield my body to Christ, which I truly believe is a very reasonable expectation. As I try not to conform to this world but have a desire to be transformed by allowing God to renew my mind; I also always try to remember that I’m just a sinner, no better than any other person and, when I think I am them I am less than I should be in Christ.

All this is a part of seeking not to ( become my own worst enemy ). Lord, Help me to teach but, not only to teach but allow myself to be taught. Help me to have a listening hear and a yielding heart, to every person that speaks. Help me to exort people with my words yet, teach with the power of your grace and wisdom. Teach me, O Lord, to learn from each person that speaks, to have discernment to know right from wrong as I hear teaching and study your word. Help me to be transformed by ther renewing of my mind to be all God desires me to be.

Help me not to be ( my own worst enemy ) in Jesus Name. Amen