- Lives in Lahore
- From Dil khusha garden kot lakhpat
- Country Pakistan
- Studied bachelor degree at nil
- Male
- Married
- 10/13/1973
- Followed by 6 people
Recent Updates
- HOW TO KEEP YOUR MIND CONTINUALLY UNDER THE BLOOD OF JESUS?
You keep your mind under the blood the same way you keep yourself under the blood as they mean the same. There is no shortcut or simply saying I cover my mind with the blood and automatically all our problems and attacks all disappear without a battle most times.
Some scriptures. 1 John 1:7 We must live in obedience to Jesus' commandments (obey the New Testament) so we are under the blood and His protection. If we are not we are not under His blood the enemy can defeat us. Then Colossians 1:13-14 knowing we have full redemption through His blood meaning mind body soul spirit have been purchased and no longer under devils power. Now we can hold the blood of Jesus to every evil thought 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 and steadfastly resist until he flees. As we continually practice this to every attack of the enemy against our hearts and minds it becomes almost automatic when he injects his poisonous thoughts and we say in Jesus name and blood I rebuke this and quote a scripture to it.
When these thoughts attack it is a demon trying to inject his poison into our minds. We have full authority over these so rebuke in Jesus name and hold the blood of Jesus to it. Then do as you are reading the scriptures thank God for His promises that pertain to the attack you're dealing with and hear uplifting music flood your mind with spiritual things until it leaves. I have redemption in Jesus' blood and forgiveness of sins to the enemy so you have no power over me.
Unless we know our full inheritance we do not know where we stand or how to stand. That is why most Christians are confused, sick, defeated, ignorant of the enemy's devices and do not know their authority and how to resist effectively.
We all experience the same attacks more and less at different times and seasons on our hearts and minds and must use our spiritual weapons to overcome. Keep close watch on our minds as this is where he strikes to discourage us In times of severe attack just start singing about the blood of Jesus to it.
Now your mind is covered with the blood through faith and obedience to Jesus. Amen!
Ephesians 6:10-18 especially verse 12. We do not WRESTLE against flesh and blood but against powers, principalities, rulers of darkness, wicked spirits in heavenly places. Fact is we are in a wrestling match. Covering yourself puts the devil on notice he is not going to take you out as you are in the protection of Jesus blood and what He did on the cross. He defeated the devil and His blood gives us His authority to overcome his attacks on our minds and bodies. As long as we are in this body the enemy can assault and attack us. By using the blood we can repel and defeat these attacks when they come. Resist the devil and he will flee from you James 4:7.
1 Peter 5:8. Be sober vigilant because your adversary the devil walks about as a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. All these were written to Christian's after Calvary. Nothing more to add or change after asking for the protection as you are doing. Next step is to be on red alert for the injection of enemies' lies and suggestions to your mind. As you are not good enough. You can't do this, it is too hard. This will never work, face it. Give up what is the use and on and on with his lies. Say this is of you devil. I refuse your depression, I refuse your anger, I refuse your doubts, I refuse your sickness/diseases/ pain, I refuse your anxiety, then quote a promise of God to the negative thoughts until they leave as Jesus did when He was tempted.
Use the name of Jesus and blood of Jesus to all attacks as mentioned before. Rebuke them go leave now in Jesus name. Thank you Lord they are gone when I pray. Believe it. Use faith.
Revelation 12:11. And they overcame him {the devil} by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.
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Please log in to like, share and comment! - WHY SPEAK IN TONGUES? Part 1 of 4.
How to Overcome Hindrances to Speaking in Tongues.
INTRODUCTION
Why speak in tongues? Surely there must be valid, scriptural reasons, or God would not have instituted this as the "sign" of the baptism of the Holy Spirit, nor established it as one of the "gifts of the Spirit" which He set in the church Acts 2:4; I Corinthians 12:28). For the sake of those who may not be thoroughly grounded in the Scriptures in regard to this question, the final chapter sets forth the basic scriptural instruction for those who wish to receive the baptism in the Holy Spirit.
The baptism in the Holy Spirit is clearly promised the believer in the Word of God, but one cannot receive this blessing until he has gotten over his doubts and fears, or any doctrinal problems concerning the validity of this experience for today. All of God's promises are appropriated by faith. To remove doubts, as well as any unscriptural ideas about the question, we recommend a study of God's Word on this matter.
There is considerable confusion today among Christians over the question of the baptism in the Spirit and speaking in tongues. They have been misled and mistaught about this matter for so long that they really do not know what to believe. Satan has created such a fear in the hearts of many people concerning the baptism in the Spirit that the very mention of the subject is enough to frighten them into open resistance. Moreover, even when some Christians come to see the validity of the baptism in the Spirit for today and desire the experience, because they think that there may be some stigma associated with speaking in tongues, often they will ask: "Can I receive the baptism in the Spirit without tongues? I have no particular need for speaking in tongues." Sometimes they will ask: "What is the good of speaking in tongues?"
To believe that God would ever give us an experience except that which is sacred and holy, or to think that the manifestation of His Presence in us would not glorify Him, is, of course, out of the question.
Our desire is to help the thousands of Christians who have received the baptism in the Holy Spirit to understand more clearly why they should continue to speak in tongues regularly after their initial experience, and to help others overcome certain hindrances in those instances where they experience a lack of freedom regarding prayer in the Spirit.
How to Overcome Hindrances to Speaking in Tongues.
We address ourselves in this study primarily to those Christians who, for one reason or another, occasion some difficulty or hindrance regarding prayer in the Spirit, and who lack freedom in tongues and release in the Spirit which they had hoped would accompany their infilling with the Holy Spirit.
"I received the baptism in the Holy Spirit several months ago," a Christian said, "but I have spoken only two or three words in new tongues. I greatly desire more freedom in the Spirit, but nothing more seems to come. Why is this?"
Another confided: "I experienced a wonderful anointing by the Spirit at the time of my baptism, and I spoke fluently for some time. However, I have not prayed in the spirit too often since, as I seldom feel this anointing to speak in tongues. I thought the anointing remained with us after receiving the baptism in the Spirit. What has happened?"
In another instance, a Christian remarked: "I have not continued to speak in tongues since my baptism, as God did not give me the gift of tongues."
A pastor stated: "I pray in tongues occasionally, usually when I am in some gathering with other Spirit-filled Christians. But generally I feel that it is just me doing the speaking, so I don't pray regularly in the Spirit."
Another confided with concern: "I was not aware that I was supposed to continue to pray in the Spirit after my baptism; therefore, I did not continue to do so. Since then I have seen the error in this, but now I find that I am unable to speak in tongues, even though I have tried and tried, and have prayed earnestly about the problem."
What is the cause of such difficulties as these? Due to some hindrance many Christians who spoke in tongues at the time of their baptism in the Spirit either do not continue to pray in the Spirit, or do so infrequently, often without any real freedom. Generally, hindrances to the continuation of speaking in tongues after the initial experience result from one of the following causes.
1. A negative attitude and outlook.
Many Christians do not seem to realize how often they defeat themselves by their negative attitudes and by what they say . The Scriptures warn that "as [a man] thinketh in his heart, so is he" (Proverbs 6:2).
"I received the baptism in the Holy Spirit several months ago," one concerned woman confided, "but I still cannot speak more than two or three words in new tongues. Can you tell me what is wrong?"
God will never give us anything He has promised us unless we reach out by faith and appropriate it.
I am thoroughly convinced that a sincere search of the Word of God is the only way for contemporary Christians to overcome their confusion and the erroneous ideas which they have been taught about such matters as the baptism of the Holy Spirit, speaking in tongues, divine healing, the gifts of the Spirit, and the validity of the miraculous in the church today.
Thus, we see how wrong attitudes or unscriptural teaching concerning speaking in tongues present an huge obstacle to receiving the baptism in the Spirit. They are also major hindrances to receiving freedom in the spirit and fluency in tongues.
2. Reliance upon feelings.
It is interesting how often Christians say that they have received the baptism in the Spirit with the evidence of new tongues, but that they have not continued to pray regularly in the Spirit after their initial experience. Often they confide that the reason for their failure is due to the fact that they seldom "feel the anointing" when they attempt to do so, and that they do not wish to do anything "in the flesh."
Of course, it is only natural that we would feel the anointing of the Spirit initially at our baptism when we begin to speak in new tongues, and this anointing often stays with us for some time afterward. However, the time will eventually come, after one has received the baptism, when the initial anointing will diminish and it will not always be present when praying in tongues. Moreover, one should not always expect to "feel" an anointing before praying in the Spirit, inasmuch as speaking in tongues is, without exception, an act of faith, and has absolutely nothing to do with how one feels.
Although an anointing may at times accompany prayer in the Spirit, it is essential that we understand that the experience of speaking in tongues is always initiated by an act of faith on our part in precisely the same manner in which we initially received the baptism in the Spirit (Galatians 3:2,14, "by faith").
We are admonished several times in Scripture to pray in the Spirit as this is the means by which we edify ourselves, worship God, and minister on behalf of others (I Corinthians 14:2,4; Acts 10:46; Ephesians 6:18). Paul speaks of praying "in the Spirit" and praying "with the understanding" (I Corinthians 14:15). Every Christian uses prayer with the understanding to strengthen himself and to pray for his and others' needs, as well as for praising and worshiping God. He certainly does not wait until he "feels' an anointing before praying in English for these purposes. How much more then should he not wait upon some "feeling" before praying in the Spirit, especially in view of the fact that God has given him specific assurance that such prayer is always effective (Romans 8:26-27), and is the means of spiritually edifying himself (I Corinthians 14:2,4).
Effective prayer has nothing to do with how one feels when he prays; it has only to do with whether or not he prays in faith. Likewise, edification is not based upon feelings or other sense evidence. When one edifies himself he spiritually strengthens the inner man, and he builds up his faith (Jude 20).
Edification does not mean "feeling edified." It is not an emotion or an anointing. Edification is a deep work of the Holy Spirit, whereby our inner man is strengthened spiritually, and our faith built up as we pray in the Spirit.
3. Confusion between the "sign" and the "gift" of tongues.
Some Christians do not continue to speak in tongues after the initial experience because they do not realize that tongues as the evidence of the baptism is not the same as the gift of tongues.
We must recognize that speaking in tongues as the evidence of our baptism in the Spirit is not the same as the charismatic gift of tongues. Every Spirit-filled believer can pray in the Spirit at any time he wishes if he will lift up his voice and speak in faith and intercession. (Mark 16:17).
However, this is but one language or tongue, and is to be used for the believer's personal devotions; whereas the gift of tongues is one of the nine gifts of the Spirit and consists of many tongues or languages (divers kinds of tongues,' I Corinthians 12:10), which are for the purpose of ministering to the Body of Christ. It is in reference to these Spiritual gifts that Paul asks: '...are all workers of miracles? have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?" (I Corinthians 12:29-30).
"Just as every Spirit-filled believer can pray for the sick (Mark 16:16-18), but not all have the gift of healing, so too every Christian who is baptized in the Spirit can pray with the devotional tongue which he received at the time of his baptism. However, not all have the charismatic ministry gift of divers kinds of tongues."
4. Occult bondage.
When Christians who desire the baptism in the Holy Spirit seem unable to receive this experience, or those who have received the baptism can speak only a few words in tongues, it could be the result of some form of occult involvement.
The Scriptures show that participation or involvement in any of the following occult practices, whether done innocently or not, opens the door to oppression or bondage by the powers of darkness: ESP, telepathy, water divining, magic healing or charming, hypnosis, astrology (horoscope), consulting fortune tellers, mediums, or the Ouija board, as well as attendance at seances or false religious cults (e.g. Spiritualists, Jehovah's Witnesses, Christian Scientists, etc.)
Occult involvement invariably affects the participant adversely, frequently causing serious damage to one's spiritual life and faith. One of the most significant ways in which the adverse effects and influence of the powers of darkness become apparent is in a Christian's inability to receive the baptism in the Holy Spirit, or his failure to experience real freedom to pray in the Spirit if he has received the baptism. Liberation from occult bondage is the only solution.
Without exception, occult involvement is condemned by God in the Scriptures. Such practices are an abomination to Him and are under His curse (Deuteronomy 18:9-12; I Chronicles 10:13-14; Leviticus 19:31; Galatians 5:19-21; Revelation 21:8).
For those who experience difficulty concerning receiving the baptism in the Holy Spirit, or who lack the freedom they desire for speaking in tongues, and who know of past occult involvement of any kind, liberation from occult bondage will involve two steps:
a. Confession of occult sins.
In Jesus' Name, confess as sin all your occult involvement which you can remember. In case of occult involvement, which you cannot recall, simply ask God to forgive that which you have forgotten.
b. Renunciation of Satan and the command to depart.
This is not to be a prayer or request, but a direct command to Satan for release by the individual seeking deliverance from occult bondage. It is necessary for the person who gave access to Satan in the first place through occult involvement to command him to depart. In faith, renounce him and all his work in your life, and command him to release you and depart. Be careful to state specifically that he must release you from all effects of occult bondage, since that involvement is the specific reason he has you bound.
Accept your liberation, and exercise your faith at once by asking for and receiving the baptism in the Spirit (Luke 11:13); or, if it is freedom in tongues you desire, by speaking forth in faith what the Spirit gives you now that you are free from your hindrances. Do not necessarily look for some "feeling" as evidence of your liberation, or you will allow the enemy to defeat you. Continue to believe and act your faith and Satan's hold will be broken. Remember, a negative attitude or speaking of doubt will be used by Satan to defeat you, for the Scriptures state, "according to your faith be it unto you" (Matthew 9:29; cf. 8:13).
Boldly say in faith, Father in Jesus name I thank you for baptizing me in the Holy Spirit and that I have the ability to speak in new tongues; then act your faith and it will happen according to your faith. Never give in to the suggestions and doubts of the enemy this will never happen, it's hopeless, I might as well forget it since I've tried so many times before and nothing changes. Ask God to give you your first new words. Then thank Him everyday for your new language and baptism before you feel or experience it, even though your mind and intellect doesn't understand it. This is acting on your faith and God has promised to answer you! Mark 11:24
5. Lack of understanding of the purpose and value of speaking in tongues.
Perhaps the greatest hindrance to the continuation of speaking in tongues on the part of many Christians results from the simple fact that they have never been taught that they should pray regularly in the Spirit. Next we want to show the purpose and value of speaking in tongues, for it is the Spirit-filled believer's ministry of prayer in the Spirit which is the primary emphasis of this whole study. Edited. Shared.
To be Continued.
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- Welcome to Biblical Teaching on Marriage, Adultery, Divorce and Remarriage.
The Topics we will be discussing are:
1. Permanence of marriage.
2. Biblical roles of the husband and wife.
— Many do not wish to discuss these biblical principles fearing the push back and criticism they will receive. However, we must fear God and be more concerned for the church and the eternal consequences rejecting these truths will bring. Love will share the truth even when it is not popular or what people want to hear, knowing the true sheep will hear the Master's voice.
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Following are some scriptures that show we should warn and correct so the saints can make righteous judgments in their decisions.
— James 5:19-20. 19 Brethren, if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back, 20 let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins. 2 Timothy 2:25. In humility, correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth. 2 Timothy 3:16-17. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. John 7:24 Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.” 1 Corinthians 2:15 But he who is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is rightly judged by no one. See also Acts 20:31; Galatians 6:1; Ezekiel 3:18; Proverbs 12:1; 2 Timothy 4:2.
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Prayerfully consider these Scriptures and seek the Lord for wisdom to follow His Word. Jesus said He would guide us and lead us into all truth as we live a holy life, acknowledging Him in all our ways. Hebrews 12:14 Pursue peace with all people, and HOLINESS, without which no one will see the Lord. James 1:5-8 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. Proverbs 3:6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.
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((1. PERMANENCE OF MARRIAGE.))
The Divine institution of marriage; is a sacred covenant between a man and a woman (Gen. 2:24; Matt.19:5; Mk.10:7), who as husband and wife commit to live in a monogamous relationship for love, procreation and companionship (Prov. 5:18-19; Mal.2:15; 1 Cor. 7:3-5), until death (Matt.19:5-6; Mal.2:14-16; Ro.7: 1-3; 1 Cor. 7:39)
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A marriage is between a man and a woman and must be done according to the local laws of the government in your area and not just a private verbal exchange of marriage vows and calling it a marriage. 1 Peter 2:13 Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake, whether to the king as supreme.
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1 Corinthians 7:14. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband; otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they are holy.
— A Christian is a spiritual covering for their family. This sets them apart for God in a special way until He brings them to repentance in response to the believers faith. This also applies to a first covenant spouse who is believing in God for restoration of a marriage when they were separated or divorced.
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According to Mark 10:28-31, especially verse 30 “...who shall not receive a hundredfold now in this time…”Believe God in faith for a hundredfold restoration for your marriage as with God nothing is impossible if we will believe.
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Mark 11:23-24. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.
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God is faithful and will restore in His perfect time and way what you have asked Him to do based on His Word. Continue to believe your marriage is restored by faith refusing to watch circumstances no matter how bad things may become for He is faithful who promised.
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Matthew 19:9. And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery; and whoever marries her who is divorced commits adultery.”
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Matthew 5:31-32. 31 Furthermore it has been said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce. 32 But I say to you that whoever divorces his wife for any reason except sexual immorality causes her to commit adultery; and whoever marries a woman who is divorced commits adultery.
— Take for example a man (the innocent party) who divorces his wife for impurity, she usually leaves and remarries. Then anyone who marries that divorced woman commits adultery. This woman was put away for committing adultery and now this woman leaves and marries someone else. Now they are both adulterers because her new husband married a woman who was put away for sexual sins.
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Matthew 19:9; Matthew 5:32 gives the one and only reason you could divorce, which is for sexual immorality. This puts an end to the many divorces for unbiblical reasons. Jesus is not saying you must quickly divorce just because you have this biblical reason of sexual immorality that your spouse committed. God’s word shows He desires repentance, forgiveness, counseling, and restoration for marriages damaged by unfaithfulness. Neither is Jesus saying right after a divorce you can marry someone else while your first covenant spouse is still alive. We must take all the scriptures together in the New Testament with what they teach. If a spouse is being abusive, drunk, on drugs, and refuses to repent after talking with them, then you could SEPARATE (not divorce) to show them the seriousness of this sin.
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Matthew 5:27-30. 27 “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ 28 But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell.
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Mark 10:11-12. 11 So He said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her. 12 And if a woman divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.”
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Luke 16:18. “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery; and whoever marries her who is divorced from her husband commits adultery.
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Romans 7:1-3. 1 Or do you not know, brethren, for I speak to those who know the law, that the law has dominion over a man as long as he lives? 2 FOR THE WOMAN WHO HAS A HUSBAND IS BOUND BY THE LAW TO HER HUSBAND AS LONG AS HE LIVES. BUT IF THE HUSBAND DIES, SHE IS RELEASED FROM THE LAW OF HER HUSBAND. 3 So then if, while her husband lives, she marries another man, she will be called an adulteress; but if her husband dies, she is free from that law, so that she is no adulteress, though she has married another man.
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1 Corinthians 7:39. A WIFE IS BOUND BY LAW AS LONG AS HER HUSBAND LIVES; BUT IF HER HUSBAND DIES, SHE IS AT LIBERTY TO BE MARRIED TO WHOM SHE WISHES, ONLY IN THE LORD.
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As mentioned above in Matthew 5:32; Matthew 19:9; Mark 10:11-12; Luke 16:18; Romans 7:3
JESUS’ CALLS RE-MARRIAGE ADULTERY EIGHT TIMES IN THE NEW TESTAMENT.
Marriage is for Life - that is why wedding vows say "until death do us part". The only way God ends marriage is through death. 1 Cor 7:39; Rom 7:1-3.
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Fornication and adultery are two separate sins. If a person repents of a marriage Jesus calls adultery, they can not choose to remain in the sinful marriage union and say they have repented. TO DO SO IS TO CHOOSE TO WALK IN DISOBEDIENCE TO GOD'S WORD. True repentance means a change of mind and heart turning from our old ways to God's.
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ADULTERY IS A MATTER OF SALVATION.
Adulterers will be judged and cannot not enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Adultery is a sin listed with murder, bearing false witness (liars), stealing, coveting, drunkenness, fornication and homosexuality . 1 Cor 6:9-10, Gal 5:19-21, Heb 13:4, Ex 20:14, God hates divorce. Marriage is a covenant and NOT a contract. Divorce is treacherous Mal 2:13-17. Jesus told the woman caught in adultery to "Go and sin no more". Repentance is ceasing to sin. God cannot bless sin. Adultery must be ended and not continued. Without confession and repentance, there is no forgiveness of sin. John 8:11, 1 Jn 1:8-9, Prov 28:13, Acts 3:19, Acts 3:26, Luke 13:3. Scripture alone is authoritative for the faith and practice of the Christian. The Bible is complete, authoritative, and true. Jn 17:17, Heb 4:12, 2 Tim 2:15, Ps 119. And Jesus said to share (witness) with everyone and make disciples by teaching them to obey God's Word. Matt 28:19-20, Acts 1:8.
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Sins of adultery, divorce, abandonment, abuse, incompatibility, an unsaved spouse, or a remarriage does not end a God-joined one flesh marriage covenant. Only death, not divorce, ends a God-joined one flesh marriage covenant. (Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:6; Mark 10:8-9; 1 Corinthians 7:39; Romans 7:2-3; Ephesians 5:31-32).
Death, not divorce, frees a spouse to remarry. If divorce has occurred, the person is to remain unmarried, or be reconciled. The conditions above cannot co-exist with an opposing third option of marrying another spouse.
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God joins the two into one flesh, never to be two again– until the death of one of these spouses.
The innocent third party by marrying a divorced person is guilty of adultery.
Divorcing from a same sex, incestuous, or an adulterous marriage is not sin, but repentance. Unlawful and unscriptural remarriages must be forsaken.
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Are you divorced or separated?
Do not remarry and enter into a new relationship if your previous covenant spouse is still living.
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Single or a Widow?
Do not marry or enter a relationship with someone whose previous covenant spouse is still living; you will be called an adulterer or adulteress! (Luke 16:16; Mark 10:11-12; Romans 7:2-3; 1 Corinthians 7:10-11, 39).
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John the Baptist Beheaded Matthew 14:3-12.
John the Baptist was beheaded because he told Herod about his adulterous marriage. John dared to tell Herod Antipas that it was not lawful for him to have his brother Phillip’s wife. Herod divorced his own wife to get married to Herodias, who had divorced her husband (Phillip) in order to marry Herod Antipas. Both of their divorces were legal and then they legally married each other, and yet John the Baptist still told Herod that it wasn’t lawful for him to have his brother Phillip’s wife. The legal procedures they went through didn’t make it right in God's eyes for them to be married to each other—the paperwork did not turn an adulterous relationship into a “God-joined, one-flesh, covenant marriage.” The law Herod & Herodias had broken was God's law of marriage (Gen 2:24). Their original covenant spouses were still living--see Rom 7:2-3). This is why John the Baptist told Herod that it was unlawful for him to have Herodias. Jesus also said that such relationships were unlawful (Luke 16:18) and constituted a state of adultery.
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2 Corinthians 6:14. Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?
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Also in Mark 10 it refutes the claim that God applies a different marital standard to believers and unbelievers. Verses 2-9: Jesus is speaking to the people he called children of the devil (John 8:44). Mark 10:8-9 And the two shall become one flesh’; so then they are no longer two, but one flesh. 9 Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.” Verse 10-12 Jesus follows up privately with the disciples. Mark 10:11-12. 11 So He said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her. 12 And if a woman divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.” Jesus consistently applied the teachings of marriage to both believers and unbelievers.
— This does not give a reason they are allowed to divorce now because they married while being a believer or unbeliever. Christians are to marry only Christians as the scriptures given above already show but if the marriage is already done it’s a marriage.
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(ADDRESSING THE NEVER MARRIED BEFORE AND WIDOWS)
1 Corinthians 7:8-9. 8 I say therefore to the unmarried (never married before) and widows, it is good for them if they abide even as I. 9 But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn.
— Paul is speaking to the never married, widows, and those whose first covenant spouse died.
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(ADDRESSING THE MARRIED, AND ANYONE WHO HAS BEEN MARRIED BEFORE)
1 Corinthians 7:10-11. Keep Your Marriage Vows. 10 Now to the married(ANY ONE WHO HAS BEEN MARRIED BEFORE) I command, yet not I but the Lord: A wife is not to depart from her husband. 11 But even if she does depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband. And a husband is not to divorce his wife.
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(ADDRESSING THE REST HE DIDN’T COVER YET)
1 Corinthians 7:12-16. 12 (But to the rest) I, not the Lord, say: If any brother has a wife who does not believe, and she is willing to live with him, let him not divorce her. 13 And a woman who has a husband who does not believe, if he is willing to live with her, let her not divorce him. 14 For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband; otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they are holy. 15 But if the unbeliever departs, let him depart; a brother or a sister is NOT UNDER BONDAGE in such cases. But God has called us to peace. 16 For how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, O husband, whether you will save your wife?
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Mentioned above in 1 Corinthians 7:15 “not under bondage” never gives allowance for remarriage, nor is the “bond” dissolved. In order to walk in peace they are allowed to let the spouse go if it is their desire. They need not fight or compel the unbelieving to stay as they are not in bondage to do so. The Greek word used for “bondage” is not the same word used in Romans 7:2-3 and 1 Corinthians 7:39 in regards to the “bond” of marriage which lasted until the death of one of the spouses. If a spouse is going to leave the marriage there is nothing you can do about it. It is not stating that it is God's will to marry someone else now by saying you're not in bondage. As the scriptures previously shown above it’s until death of one of the first covenant spouses that dissolves the marriage.
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Hebrews 13:4. Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but FORNICATORS and ADULTERERS God will judge.
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1 Corinthians 6:9-10. 9 Do you not know that the unrighteous will NOT inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither FORNICATORS, nor idolaters, nor ADULTERERS, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, 10 nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.
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Galatians 5:19-21. 19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: ADULTERY, FORNICATION, UNCLEANNESS, lewdness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will NOT inherit the kingdom of God.
—Sex outside marriage is the sin of fornication. Masturbation, anal and oral sex is the sin of uncleanness.
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James 4:4. ADULTERERS and ADULTERESSES! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.
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Sin is not forgiven until you repent of it (ask God for forgiveness for it in Jesus name 1 John 1:9) and stop continuing in the sin. Proverbs 28:13 He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever CONFESSES AND FORSAKES THEM will have mercy.
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POLYGAMY.
The Scriptures insist on the purity of monogamous marriage to be seen in (1) God's blessings on the original pair, Adam and Eve, stressing that they were to be "one flesh" (Gen. 2:24; Matt. 19:3-6. (2) It was Cain's sinful descendants who introduced polygamy (Gen. 4:16—19). (3) Polygamy, although practiced by some in Old Testament times, is never condoned by God. On the contrary, its evils are dealt with in Exodus 21: 10—11 and Deuteronomy 21:15f., and plural marriages are especially forbidden rulers (Deut. 17:17). Leviticus 18:18 appears to be a clear prohibition against polygamy also. (4) The Scriptures single out polygamy as a primary source of trouble wherever it appears (Gen. 16:5; 30:1; 1 Kgs. 11:1-8).
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There are in some cultures or family arranged marriages where a woman is chosen for the man and SHE WILLINGLY ACCEPTS the man chosen for her, which works for many.
But there are some forced marriages where BOTH SPOUSES ARE NOT WILLING to marry each other but family or others push it on you. That is not marriage as God intended.
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There is only one condition of remarriage and it is when the covenant spouse (first spouse never married before) dies. For example, by law a married woman is bound to her husband as long as he is alive, but if her husband dies, she is released from the law of marriage. So then, if she marries another man while her husband is still alive, she is called an adulteress. But if her husband dies, she is released from that law and is not an adulteress, even though she marries another man.” Romans 7:2-3.
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((2. BIBLICAL ROLES OF THE HUSBAND AND WIFE.))
We see in the Scriptures men are not superior to women and women are not inferior to men. But while God does not discriminate against women, He did make them different, plainly revealing that He intended them to function in different roles and with different responsibilities. They are equal by not equivalent, meaning they have different callings. God created two separate and distinct sexes (equal, but separate and distinct). “Male and female created He them” (Gen. 1:27). Obviously, He intended that they function in two separate and distinct roles.
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1 TIMOTHY 2:11-12. “Let the women learn in silence with all subjection (in religious assemblies). But I suffer not a woman to teach, NOR TO USURP AUTHORITY OVER THE MAN, but to be in silence.”
— Here women are instructed to learn quietly in submission (in religious assemblies), and they are not permitted to teach men or to exercise authority over them. For more on this topic see the post on my Facebook profile timeline called “Women in the Ministry?”. In an assembly of believers and at the right time both women and men can move in gifts of the Holy Spirit as God wills. Women can share dreams, visions, songs, testimonies and prophecy according to 1 Corinthians 14:26-33).
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God designed in the order of His universe that women were to be “an help meet” for the man, not an authoritative figure over the man (Gen. 2:18,20), and she is not the head of the man but he is to be her head (Eph. 5:22-24; 1 Cor. 11:3, 8-9). Violating these clear injunctions from Scripture invariably leads to spiritual deterioration, chaos, and confusion within the church and the home. Nothing functions properly when it is out of Biblical order.
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Paul’s prohibition is linked not to custom or culture, but to the very order of creation!
Continuing from Paul’s prohibition in 1 Timothy 2:11-12, verse 13 explains why the woman is forbidden to teach or hold an authoritative position over men: “For (because) Adam was first formed, then Eve.” The prohibition is because God did not design for a woman to be the head over man, but the opposite. God, in His divine plan, never intended for women to function in roles He delegated to men. Though created equal, each sex was to function in the role God intended. It violated divine order for the women to usurp male authority in churches or homes. Is God unfair to women? Does this prohibition declare male superiority? Absolutely not! No one sex is more important than the other.
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Genesis 2:22-24. 22 Then the LORD God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man. The man said, "This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called 'woman, for she was taken out of man." For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.
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Genesis 3:16. To the woman He said: “I will greatly multiply your sorrow and your conception; In pain you shall bring forth children; Your desire shall be for your husband, And he shall rule over you.”
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Ephesians. 5:22-33. 22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the savior of the body. 24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. 25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, 26 that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, 27 that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. 28 So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. 29 For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church. 30 For we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones. 31 “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” 32 This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church. 33 Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.
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1 Peter 3:1-7. 3 Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; 2 While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. 3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; 4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. 5 For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: 6 Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement. 7 Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honor unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.
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1 Corinthians 7:3-5. 3 Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband. 4 The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. 5 Do not deprive one another (intimacy) except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
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1 Timothy 2:9-10. 9 in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, 10 but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works.
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1 Timothy 3:1-5. 3 This is a true saying, if a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. 2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach; 3 Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; 4 One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; 5 (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)
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1 Timothy 3:12. Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.
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1 Timothy 5:14. I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.
— The wife is to help guide the house especially if the husband is not home to help and she keeps the children in line and a keeper of the home.
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Titus 2:1-8. 1 But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine: 2 that the older men be sober, reverent, temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience; 3 the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things— 4 that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed. 6 Likewise, exhort the young men to be sober-minded, 7 in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, 8 sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you.
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Titus 1:5-9. 5 For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you— 6 if a man is blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of dissipation or insubordination. 7 For a bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, 8 but hospitable, a lover of what is good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled, 9 holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict.
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Titus 3:2. To speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, ((gentle)), showing all humility to all men.
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Colossians 3:19. Husbands, love your wives and do not be BITTER toward them.
Bitter Definition Strong's #4087. Thayer's.
1. to make bitter. a. to produce a bitter taste in the stomach. 2. to embitter. exasperate. a. render angry, indignant. b. to be embittered, irritated. c. to visit with bitterness, to grieve (deal bitterly with). Strong's. From G4089; to embitter (literally or figuratively): - be (make) bitter. Mounce's. to turn sour, make bitter; to become sour, embittered.
— Never act resentful expressing hard feelings with your spouse, but always give honor and respect to the one God gave you, regardless of how you are treated. Always give your 100% faithfulness not waiting for your spouse to give theirs first. This allows God to work in their hearts when they see your obedience to the Scriptures.
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A husband is the head of the household. A wife is to submit to her husband, treating him as she would the Lord. He has the final say and is responsible if things do not work out because of his final decision. A wise husband will ask and value his wife's opinion then seek the Lord. It's a big responsibility, and he must be careful to make decisions after much prayer and fasting if needs be on important matters. A husband and wife will show love and respect for each other and will never abuse each other, physically or emotionally. A godly wife doesn’t try to be controlling or bossy to her husband nor the husband controlling and bitter to his wife. Both are to be faithful to each other with humbleness of mind. It’s God's divine order. If it’s not in order it’s sin and things are out of control and your prayers can be hindered and attacks of the devil come if in sin.
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1 John 2:4 He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments (New Testament), is a liar, and the truth is not in him.
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John 14:15 If you love Me, keep My (New Testament) Commandments. [Not Moses’].
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1 John 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we keep His (New Testament) commandments. And His (New Testament) commandments are not burdensome.
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Galatians 1:6-10. I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed. For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ.
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Galatians 4:16. Have I therefore become your enemy because I tell you the truth?
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Please do not leave your comments on this post that disagrees with these scriptural truths. They will not be read, not answered, but deleted. I will not answer questions in the comments section on this post on these topics. I will not debate or answer questions in private that disagree with these topics clearly given from the scriptures. The word of God is clear and when further wisdom from God is needed we are invited to "ask God in faith nothing wavering.” James 1:5. The promise is we shall receive.
I Hope this helps someone. All glory to God alone.
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- A CALL TO GO DEEPER WITH GOD
The Nature Of The Deeper Life.
What exactly is meant by the Deeper Life in the Spirit? Astonishingly few Christians have the remotest idea, nor is the subject familiar to most of the believers who have received the experience of the baptism in the Holy Spirit. Thousands of believers today are discovering that there is a deeper experience with God after salvation; namely, the baptism in the Holy Spirit, as God in this present hour is pouring out His Spirit upon all flesh as foretold by the Prophet Joel (2:28f.). Countless thousands in all denominations are experiencing the reality of the promise in Acts 2:38-39. However, it comes as a surprise to most of these to learn, after they have received this experience, that they still have not attained God's highest purpose for them, but that the baptism in the Holy Spirit was, in reality, the "means" to a greater spiritual experience—the fullness of God Himself (Eph. 3:19). The deeper life in the Spirit is the Spirit-led life (Rom. 8; Gal. 5:16-25); it is the crucified life (Gal. 2:20); it is a life of total faith in and dependence upon God (Mt. 6:33); and it is the Spirit-filled believer's growth "unto a full-grown man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ" (Eph. 4:13).
How is this deeper life in the Spirit to be attained?
The message of the deeper life is basically the message of the cross. The way into the deeper life in the Spirit is the way of the cross. It means to take up the cross and follow Jesus. It is, in a word, the death of the self-life. God, in this hour, is calling a people to walk on a higher spiritual level than they have ever experienced before and He is offering them nothing less than the fulness of Himself! The deeper life is walking in the Spirit in total commitment as disciples—the future goal is the fullness of God.
More and more disciples who have entered into the glorious experience of the baptism of the Holy Spirit are now being brought by the Spirit into a place of the crucifixion and death of "self" as the essential condition to receiving the fullness of God. To the extent one is filled with "self," he is, of necessity, to that extent not filled with the presence of God. The deeper life in the Spirit is not some mere doctrine to be studied with the intellect, discussed, and then forgotten; but it is a real experience with Christ, as the Holy Spirit brings us into conformity to the death of Christ, so that His resurrection life and power may be manifested fully in us. This is the message of the hour. God is at this very moment preparing a Body of believers which He intends to bring into the fulness of Himself. They will experience the fullness of Christ's resurrection life and power and be used to fulfill His glorious purposes in the restoration of all things now at the consummation of the age (Acts 3:21). For those who are unfamiliar with this great truth we suggest a reading at this point of some of the more significant passages dealing with the deeper life: Matthew 5-7; 20:25-28; Mark 11:22-24; Luke 9:57-62; 14:25f.; Romans 8; 12:1-2; Galatians 2:20; 5:16-25; 6:14; Ephesians 3:1-19; 4:7-16; Philippians 2:5-8; 3:10; Colossians 3: If.; I Peter 2:19-23; 4:1-16; Revelation 2-3.
The Need For The Deeper Life.
The present age is characterized by two evils affecting both the secular and religious areas of life. One concerns moral discernment; the other involves moral authority. The spiritual and moral character of the present age indicates that conditions have deteriorated to such a point that the only ultimate solution, as well as the greatest need of Christianity at this time, is the restoration of the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in the Church. This is not to be construed to mean some sort of mystical empowering of the present religious institution, whereby its current programs, organization and methods are made more effective, but the need is for a personal encounter with the Holy Spirit by individual Christians in an experience identical with that received by the disciples at Pentecost.
To compensate for its lack of power and effectiveness against the present-day flood of wickedness and unbelief, the Church has turned to such substitutes as increased religious activity, new methods and dynamic programs, as well as the merger of denominations in order to multiply its membership and increase its outreach. However sincere the effort may be on the part of some, all such attempts are destined to fail, just as they have in the past; for man cannot restore life to the body by means of artificial respiration when the spirit has departed, "for . . . the body without the spirit is dead" (Jam. 2:26). Only an effusion of power from on high within the lives of Christians themselves can deliver the contemporary Laodicean Church from the moral and spiritual chaos affecting the whole of mankind in this hour. The imperative need of the restoration of the sovereign operation and ministry of the Holy Spirit once more in the Church will be seen, we believe, from the following discussion of the two moral and spiritual characteristics of the age in which we live.
It is an age without moral and spiritual discernment.
Although the present age has been described by some observers as an age of scientific progress, human achievement, and tremendous advancements into new frontiers of technology, it may, from a moral standpoint at least, be more accurately described as an age of moral and spiritual crisis, reflected in such things as the phenomenal increase in crime, war, and drug addiction, the almost universal preoccupation with sex, the general disregard for authority, the great social upheavals and racial strife, and the almost abysmal lack of moral understanding and concern on every hand. We find ourselves living in an age analogous to the dark ages of the Judges in which "every man did that which was right in his own eyes" (Judg. 21:25). The great apostasy of our day and the perilous times in which we live were foretold by the Apostle Paul as characterizing the last days:
This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, truce-breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof (2 Tim 3:1-5).
Truly it is an age when men and women, in many respects, seem to have lost the capacity for moral discernment, calling darkness light and evil good, as was true of Israel in Isaiah's time when he declared, "Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter" (Isa. 5:20).
As in the period of the Judges, young and old alike consider themselves adequate authorities in spiritual and moral matters, judging what is right and wrong, scorning all attempts at instruction or restraint as outmoded "authoritarianism." The carefree moral philosophy of today is conformity and compromise. It is a time when, even among professing Christians, being "accepted" by the group seems to be more important than being accepted by God. The distinction between the sacred and the secular is rapidly becoming more difficult to discern; there is a loss of a sense of reverence toward God and sacred things; the concept of holiness in the life and character of the Christian is for the most part a thing of the past; and a lack of respect for parents and authority by the younger generation is reflected in a lack of respect for and fear of God.
Within Christendom itself the Church and family as the center of interest has been largely replaced with secular interests, and the once quiet Christian home is now monopolized by TV and rock music. Two global conflicts in this century, together with the constant turmoil, world-wide unrest, confusion, and uncertainty about the future have taken their toll, resulting in moral decay, increased drunkenness, divorce, juvenile delinquency and crime, as well as a loss in spiritual concern. Modern scientific achievements and technological improvements have, in spite of their beneficial results, only added to the problem by putting at our disposal hundreds of improvements to save time and make life easier, but providing thereby more time for development of the secular life, leisure, pleasure and sin.
It is an age without moral and spiritual authority.
The prevailing moral philosophy of this age can be characterized by three words: everything is relative. Morals are relative to time, place, and circumstance. Conduct is largely determined by the principle "when in Rome do as the Romans do." It is an age in which that which is popular and acceptable by the majority is right. The erroneous notion that "the end justifies the means" frequently prevails within, as well as without, the confines of Christendom. "Truth" and "right" are whatever produce results and work; failure is wrong and cannot be tolerated. Conscience is explained as merely the childhood memory of the "do" and "don't" of one's parents; so-called sins are, in reality, "mistakes" or "errors in judgment" in our evolution to a higher morality; and pleasure and happiness, as good ends in themselves, are to be pursued for their own sake.
What is responsible for such moral and spiritual confusion? It is because, for the majority at least, there is no longer an objective moral authority to guide their lives and conduct... to teach them truth ... to indicate the difference between right and wrong ... or to establish a standard. In a word, it is because, in this age of materialism and skepticism, men have lost faith in the integrity of the Holy Scriptures, and there remains, therefore, no reliable, unchanging standard of right to measure conduct and character by. Moral conduct is largely determined by the principle of expediency. Without an infallible objective moral standard (the Word of God) the principle of expediency reigns. If it works, if it relieves pain or displeasure, and if it promotes one's welfare and happiness, then it is right.
Too often the contemporary Church, denying the inerrancy of Scripture and influenced by the principle of expediency, asks but one question in conducting its affairs, in securing its funds, or in promoting its programs and institutions— "Will it work?" As a result, the Church has, more and more, come to resemble the secular community in which it exists, reflecting its customs, attitudes and mores, rather than being seen as the moral and spiritual influence upon the community. Moreover, it has become increasingly indifferent to the moral declension, decay, and spiritual shallowness within its own confines, and as a consequence, can speak with little moral and spiritual authority to the community at large.
What is the solution in an age without spiritual discernment and authority for those who, possessing a measure of spiritual awareness and concern, desire to walk in the ways of truth and faithfulness? God Himself has provided the answer to the dilemma, enabling, thereby, the sincere Christian to rediscover the distinctiveness of his calling to be the "salt of the earth" and "light of the world." The present move of the Spirit of God today throughout the world, as God pours out His Spirit in fulfillment of Joel's prophecy, is Heaven's answer to man's spiritual need now at the end of the age.
The significance of the present-day moving of the Holy Spirit upon believers in all denominations throughout the world may be summarized as (1) God's answer to Jesus' prayer in John 17 "that they may all be one." This is not an organizational oneness promoted by ecclesiastical leaders, but a oneness of love and purpose in the Spirit. Through the experience of the baptism in the Holy Spirit God is gathering the divided, scattered members of His Body, separated by doctrine, traditions, misunderstanding, fear and distrust, and uniting them once more in a bond of love. What the religious leaders are attempting to do by organizational mergers, God is doing by His Holy Spirit. When the Church lost the reality of the experience of the baptism in the Holy Spirit, it lost its one true unifying force, and the Body of Christ, as an inevitable consequence, became divided.
It is the testimony of those who are receiving the baptism in the Holy Spirit that the immediate effect in their lives is the restoration of a spirit of love and true oneness with all saints everywhere. (2) The present outpouring of the Holy Spirit is also God's answer for the contemporary Laodicean state of the Church, a Church which has the "form of godliness, but denies the power thereof." Where the Holy Spirit has been invited to return, a charismatic revival is taking place—the gifts of the Spirit are being restored (1 Cor. 12), the signs are following the preaching of the Word once again (Mk. 16:17f.), and the supernatural character of the Gospel is once more being demonstrated. (3) The great moving of the Spirit of God over the world in this hour is also God's reply to the great demonic flood sweeping throughout the world in preparation for the reign of Antichrist. We are witnessing a fantastic increase in Satanic wickedness and influence in the form of crime, sexual perversions, suicide, wars, fear, anxiety, divorce, physical and mental illnesses, drug and alcohol addiction, racial strife, hate, deceit, skepticism, and moral decay, as well as the spread of spiritualism and a phenomenal increase in occultism of all forms.
As the Apostle Paul has shown, the believer's warfare is not against flesh and blood, nor is he contending merely with the secular and materialistic philosophies of our day, but against the spirit of this world (Eph. 6:10f.). This is the precise reason men and their methods of reform have failed and will fail to promote world peace, check the increase in crime and moral decay, or stem the tide of social unrest. The need of the hour is for Christians to experience once more a personal encounter with the Holy Spirit, and to rediscover His blessed ministry in their lives. Only He can bring the believer into a place of total consecration and the deeper life, so that he may be able to overcome the spirit of this age, and withstand in the evil day and, having done all, to stand. Never before in history has the Church needed a baptism of power from on high more than at present, in an age without moral discernment or spiritual authority. Edited. Shared.
May God grant you a full understanding of His plans and purposes in your life with a sincere desire to please Him in all things.
Ephesians 5:27. That He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.
Lord willing, more will be posted soon. All glory to Jesus alone.0 Comments 0 Shares 10 Views
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- THE TEN PRINCIPLES OF SPIRITUAL WARFARE.
Today, more than ever, we need the powerful word of God restored to the church.
We need to learn correctly how to use the word of our testimony and the blood of Jesus to overcome. We need teaching on how to resist Satan’s temptations and allurements, oppression, and afflictions whether at home, church, business, work, or wherever you are battling in body, mind, or spirit. In Ephesians 6 we are told to put on the whole armor of God. We can effectively overcome Satan by using spiritual armor and weapons that Jesus has placed at our disposal and said to use them by faith. (2 Corinthians 10:3-5) For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.
Luke 11:13, states, if you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him. Jesus said to ask for the Holy Spirit and you will receive it. See also Acts 2:38-39 Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call. Zechariah 4:66 So he answered and said to me: This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the Lord of hosts. In Luke 4 Jesus was anointed with the Holy Spirit and power. We see the devil tempting Jesus and we see what Jesus did to defeat the devil. He quoted the word of God to him. It is written. This is how we win the battle against our adversary. You have the same power and authority as the Lord Jesus Christ. He gave it to you. Here are 10 spiritual principles to help you overcome.
1.) When you’re in conflict, trial, under attack, sickness in your family, your business, or church, directly speak to the enemy.
FIRST OF ALL COMMAND SATAN TO DEPART IN JESUS NAME.
We have Jesus' authority. In Matthew 4:10, Jesus said get thee hence Satan. In Matthew 16:23 Jesus said to the devil speaking through Peter, “get behind me Satan” as he was trying to stop Him going to the cross. Command the devil to depart in Jesus name.
2.) Declare your victory through Jesus Blood.
Rev. 12:10-11, Heb. 2, Heb. 10, Jesus has delivered us both from the fear and the power of death. Heb. 10. He did it by His blood. The demons fear the blood of Jesus just like they fear the name of Jesus, because it has power over them. In the Old Testament as the Israelites went out of Egypt they put blood on the doorposts. They had to get in under the blood. This means you must live in obedience to New Testament principles and commandments to be under the protection of the blood of Jesus just as the Israelites obeyed. The lesson God was teaching them was there is protection under the blood of the Lamb. We have authority and victory over the powers of darkness and overcome by the blood of Jesus!
3.) Use your Authority over Satan.
As a result of your relationship to Christ confess and believe it.
You are a joint heir with Christ. (Ephesians 2:4-6) But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus. You are already seated at the right hand of God meaning your spiritual position. You can war against the enemy from this position. Command and defeat Satan from this position. Luke 9:19 Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. Luke 10:19 Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. I give you ALL power and ALL authority over the enemy. You have the power over the enemy, stop begging and pleading and asking God to do for you what He has already given you the power and authority to do. Say devil by virtue of my position of a joint heir with Jesus Christ on the basis of my authority which I have in Him I command you to take your hands off of me.
4.) Resist the Devil and He will flee from you.
James 4:7 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Ephesians 4:27 Give no place to the devil. 1 Peter 5:8 -9 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. Resist steadfastly and by faith. If Satan tries to put evil things on you, resist and overcome him. There are many aspects to faith, but resistance is one of the most important. Many times a lack of persistence and resistance is what causes us to lose the battle.
5.) Use the Sword of the Spirit and the Shield of Faith.
In Matthew 4:4-10 Jesus overcame Satan by saying it is written, it is written, it is written. Use the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:10-18 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11) Put on the whole armor of God that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12) For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13) Therefore take up the whole armor of God that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14) Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15) and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16) above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17) And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18) praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints— In every temptation Jesus said it is written to the devil and did not argue with him.
Jesus quoted the word of God. He used the sword of the Spirit. “Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that precedes out of the mouth of God”. Jesus always answered the devil with scripture. Then the devil left him. Why? Because Jesus used the sword of the Spirit, the word of God, and spoke it to Satan’s face. And of course the shield of faith goes right along with that. Quote Psalm 91 if its deliverance and protection you need. Remind him, if it's financial, Philippians 4:19 said my God WILL supply all my needs according to His riches and glory. If it's healing, say, Jesus has forgiven ALL my iniquities(sins), healed ALL my diseases Psalm 103:3 and the blood of Jesus overcomes him.
6.) Refuse any negative thought to enter your mind when you’re in a battle with Satan.
Because the mind is where he usually gains access and defeats you. Reject critical thoughts, negative thoughts, thoughts of doubt, self-pity, fear, anger, jealousy, and hate. If you give him access for 5 minutes it will take you all day to gain the ground back that you lost. This is where he defeats most, in the thought realm. There is no way God can deliver you out of the hands of the devil as long as you're listening to destructive thoughts and repeating them. Mark 11:24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them. Jesus said He already gave you what you asked for when you prayed so hold fast to it until victory promised is seen!
7.) Refuse to speak doubt, defeat, or unbelief.
Start repeating the promises of God. The word of God says you can be “snared by the words of your mouth” and “death and life are in the power of the tongue”. Proverbs 6:22 You are snared by the words of your mouth; You are taken by the words of your mouth. Proverbs 18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit. Say and believe you have victory according to the promise whether you see or feel it immediately. Never speak doubt, defeat, unbelief, fear or anything contrary to the Word of God when you’re in warfare with Satan because he is listening to you. He knows if you are believing or talking just words. Accept your healing or whatever promise you need from God that he already gave them to you when you prayed. Know you were set free and deliverance is a promise, take it by faith and live and walk it out by faith.
8.) Stay faithful to your promise in God’s word. Then hold fast to it.
Hebrews 10:23 Let us hold fast the confession of our faith without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. For God is faithful who made you the promise. Holding fast to your confession is a very important aspect of spiritual warfare. Here is where many lose the battle. They cannot hold fast. Hold fast your faith in the promise of God no matter what you feel, see, what circumstances say, what people say, or thoughts the devil tries to put in your mind. Say, it is written, then quote the promises of God like Jesus did until victory comes. Stay with the word of God, refuse to back down or ever give up!
9.) Put on the whole armor of God.
Ephesians 6:10-18. 10) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11) Put on the whole armor of God that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12) For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13)Therefore take up the whole armor of God that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.14) Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15) and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16) above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17) And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18) praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints. Notice the armor, speaking and living in these faithfully, truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation in all its aspects, watching in prayer, knowing the word enough to quote it, ready for attack!
10.) Do not be speaking of Satan’s power.
Don’t say the devil is telling me this or that, that you cannot get the victory or I can’t stand by myself, it's just too much. Do not always feel that you have to rebuke the devil every time you have a bad thought or negative feeling. Simply dismiss it and boldly state a promise to it instead. Then thank and praise God He heard you when you prayed and remind God you're holding fast. The devil will flee if you resist him but he will also flee if you praise God. Resist the devil and command him only when you feel that it’s absolutely necessary. Keep the promises and God's faithfulness in your mind and heart, realizing this is spiritual warfare that will be won by God's grace and help as we endure in faith!
Father in Jesus name we ask You to take us into a deeper realm of experience with you that you work a hunger and thirst in us through the word of God and by Your Spirit. We want our love and obedience to come forth into maturity, well pleasing in Your sight. Thank you for Your authority and promises You gave us, that we have the victory in Jesus name as we hold fast, using our spiritual weapons just as You said so we can stand against all the wiles of the devil. This way we can be an example of what it means to be a fully delivered and redeemed Christian by the Blood of Jesus, a testimony of what it means to stand as sons of God, joint heirs with Christ. Grant this prayer to each of us as You said that we are in the palm of Your hand and that no man can pluck us out. Praise God. Amen and Amen! Edited. Shared.
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