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Chapter Overviews In Part

1. Realize Your Destiny    2. The Futuristic Gospel   3. Ignoring the Witness    4. Ignoring the Gospel  5. The War of the Flesh  6. Ignoring Conscience   7. Ignoring the Ministries

Chapter one
	Realize Your Destiny   "Why are you cast down, O my soul ?   And why are you disquieted within me ?   Hope ... in God.   For I shall yet praise Him for the help of His "countenance". The Lord will command His loving kindness in the daytime, and in the night His song shall be with me, ... and my prayer unto the God of my life"                                          - Psalms 42:5,8   Good News!  You can stop the "drudgery" And, while you are stopped, you might want to ask the Spirit of God  (Who is patiently waiting), what He would like to say, ... or do ? Remember, when you "repented" ?   It was God that you returned to, not people's expectations.  One is born again by the Holy Spirit,  ... not by a religious opinion.  (St. John ch.3) Some folks are in a situation where they wear themselves out in a church group, or a club, or a job, or a family. But, do you know that God can "bless" your family, even without you ?    (read: Isaiah ch.61: esp. Vs.9) "And there seed shall be known,  ... all that see them shall acknowledge them,  ... that they are the seed which the Lord  ... has blessed." *... If God doesn't want to "bless" them, ... then all the "well intended" efforts aren't going to change that. So Let's Start Fresh Here's some Signs that "You" are living the Christian life ... without  "the Holy Spirit" It's Not good ... 1.  When you ask yourself, "what would Jesus do in this   situation" ?  (rather, listen for the Spirit) 2. You get "upset"  ...  when people question, or criticize, your good  "Christian testimony". (listen for the Spirit) 3. When someone "challenges" you, ... you answer with all the good things that you have done, rather than giving any indication  ... that the Holy Spirit is  "speaking to you". 4. You're not fun all the time.  Only when things go your way, are you patient.  ("self" centered, not Spirit centered) 5. You're not "too silly  ... to learn".  Sometimes this can be a good trait, as "carnal" people will always try to direct you, and ... teach you. (listen for the Spirit) 6. You "gave up" yesterday  ... on all those people  ... that just won't listen, ... or change.  (follow the Spirit's leading) 7.  You are "whimsical".  You "like this", ... or "that".  You're always changing.   (remember: the Holy Spirit speaks,   ... then "fulfills" in His way) 8.  You are "ardent", or ambitious.  Slow down.  Just respond in obedient faith,  ... and faithfulness.  ("fruitfulness") 9.  You want the "jocularity"  (good times)  ... now.   (It's not necessary.     You  can find  "excitement" in the  Kingdom of God) 10. When ... "You do the best you can" !     (Do you know that when you serve the Lord,  ... you won't see  "everything" that is being accomplished ? )  Now, this would probably be enough to think about for awhile.  And you will soon see that the majority of people "follow the crowd",  rather than to listen for the voice of God's Spirit. But I have more confidence in you than that,  and I want to slow you down until you come to a place where you can forget all the religious things that you have heard about, and done,  ... and come to a place of openness ... to spend time with the Spirit of God. In the next pages I will seek to help to "open you up" to a new world of the Spirit of God;  a world that also has your destiny awaiting. I will take you by the hand, and lead you to places that you haven't been before;   but by the time we are done,  ... you will want to go back.    Sometimes, you won't "get it" at first,  but you will in time.  It is your true home.     And you must be born again..                    _____                            Jacob  ... "the Israelite" He promised to "Vow".  But as winsome as he was, he was a disaster. The sheep that he had, were sold for slaughter.  Tomorrow would be a new day. Uncle Laban had sinned against his sister, and had drawn Jacob out of the "hole", only to put him into the "gutter". Things were not right.   Who  ... could hold on till tomorrow ? The kids were playing.  The sky was red, ... and time seemed to stand still.  No one seemed to care, ... or understand. The walking stick that he had cut yesterday was "chaffed", and dry.       Even that wasn't good.  But, ... God !   God had said, ... "That I would be victorious", he said to himself. Standing there, and gazing up at the sky, he could hear the still, small, "voice" (almost mischievous),  laugh, (and then pause)  ... as if He knew something ... that Jacob didn't.   As he looked to his right, out of the corner of his eye, he could see a "bramble bush" burning, and a goat standing beside it: ... a vision he didn't tell to anyone. But now, there were so many thoughts in his head,  (as he brushed back his curly, unruly, black locks of hair)  ... that he could see no reasonable, settled future. All of this danced before his eyes, as he waited patiently for supper. Then, one day, as if in a dream, he lost his patience ... and began to run, ... then walk.  He walked on, and on, for what seemed like hours.  It was as if he was trying to get a "new perspective". Then a voice spoke to him,  "Get along, ... take a chance.   I was there when they raised up the great walls, ... and lived with  "mighty technologies".    I have seen you ... since before the foundations of this earth.  I was with you, when you were "nought".   I hold you in the bright red ring of royalty on My right hand.  The truth that is born in your heart,  ...  is My "essence".  You will be wise,  ... and learn of Me.   You'll see."  (then,  ... with  a  whisper, the  "voice"  faded  away) Jacob turned, and looked,  ... at the hills in the distance, and thought joyfully  ... "these are the "miracle treasures"  of my      heart.      I will see  when one ... is made wise.      You will see  ... when  I am made wise." Silence, and stillness, seemed to enshroud him like a coat. He was about to wrestle with ... the "image" of his destiny.                                                  - the end                                                          _____ As we will learn, and as Paul the apostle tried to teach the people at Ephesus,  ... the truth of the Christian messiah, (Jesus)  ... is to walk in this new life of the Spirit.  (Ephesians ch.4,5)                                     Times haven't changed. This message is still directing us to get to know the voice, and wisdom, of the Spirit. _____                                     If you will spend time alone, allowing yourself to be open to respect God's Spirit, ... He will take you to this new Kingdom  ... of His eternal delights. One day, as I gave my time to listening to the advice of the Spirit,  He opened my mind.   The more room that I gave to Him, the more He pushed my boundaries out  ... to learn new things. He will teach you new things, too. Just as Jesus taught,  "I and the Father are one", even so you will come to learn what this means  ... as you let the Spirit open your mind. Sometimes the conversation is from our spirit, and sometimes from His.   But, as the conversation grows ... we become one. He speaks to us so that our emotions are renewed.   He speaks to us to build new vision.   He speaks to us to show His love and character,  and to introduce us to His intentions for us and Him.   This is the process of salvation,  and the adventure of the born again  ... experience. Here's a sample of one of these conversations. You can't read this like you would anything else,  because it's meant for you to linger over,  and to live in.   It's Spiritual conversation.   It's the destiny of our existence  ... beginning here, and now. _____                                                 prophetic                                                 March/04                                                              Destiny's "Image" "Walk ... in destiny's image.   Walk in ... your destiny. Quit wasting time. You cannot root in me.    God's Spirit roots in me. Those around you will see your testimony,  ... and root in the  ...  life of God. Cast off the sorrows of the new age. Let the bliss of self leave.  Let the bliss  of God's life come forth.  Soldier ... in it.  Mighty, to the pulling down of "strongholds",  ... and "idols" (that peep).  They do have a "voice",  ... but your voice will "overcome". "They overcame them with the blood, and   ...  the word  of their testimony" Begin to "talk" ... the Life.  (be Born Again)   Slash the destiny of evil.  Let yours come forth ... in God. Explode into reunion with the Mother of Souls;  ... the Spirit of God ... is born within you. The chalice is like a lamp.  The hideous overshadowing of it ... comes from above.  Its rottenness is to the core.  Its life is lame.  ... But, yours will rise up.  Let  it come forth ! Lift up you hands in servitude.    Lift up your eyes in vision.   Speak forth with the tongue of the living. My God comes near you.   Mighty God, ... come forth. The jewels on your "nose".  (Python habit) With your lips of praise, "magnify the King".   Live the life of the King.  Magnify Him with brighter things. Brighter days are ahead,  ... not dead. Lift up your hands unto the feeble. (Isaiah 58)   Help them in their need.  Trust in them with your cares.  They approve.  They wisely say, "strengthen my hands,  ... and I will strengthen yours". They are blessed beyond measure.  They are a "seamless quilt" of comfort.   Joy is in their brow.  The furrows are on their neck. They have "risen above" their needs.  Joy has overtaken them.  I will watch and pray, for you are my King. Joy is in the lips of praise.  Come, and sit beside me.    Come and see. "Endearment" is on its way.  Yesterday was proud, ... today is meek.  I will jealously overtake you.  The proud will swear by their wrath,  ... but you shall overcome in joy. Joy is your soldier.  Take him by your side.   I will lift him up in peace. (Read:  Romans 13:11,  and  Isaiah 61:5-8) "Indifferent ?     Be always  ... used of me. The cares of this world;  the "neediness" shall all go away.  They are not part of me.  Sustain you with your laugh. Plead with me, I beg of you.   Be a part of me. Drone on,   ...  living the life of pleasures. Sickness is above you.  The "dart of the enemy" has risen.  Twice in your word, you confuse me ... with death. I have planted a "life" in your soul, ... that will not die.  I have given you life.  Lose it for my pleasure.    Use it for my gain. I will sustain you in your cause.  I will run away with you.    Be not a character  ...  unto yourself. Lift me up, and I will pleasure you.  Cause me.  Walk in me.  I am yours.    Belittle me, ... and I will be proud. Go against me,  ... and I will gain.  Torch me, and I will laugh.  Hose me, and I will fear.  To die is great gain. Be little in my sight.  Praise the worthiness of the LORD. Be still.     "Live on." Like a roach you will despair,  ... and yet conquer the east. Be still beside us, O LORD.  I will rise up and flay the enemy. Be still beside me.   I will play instruments of music.  Your shoulders shall rest. Peace be unto me ... in times of great need. I have spent all to be with you.  Now I will need.  There is pleasure in that. Thank you ... Lord,  ... my Mighty "Survivor". Twin lakes will come up before you.   Need and Bliss.  One will feed the other.  I have given you life.  I will prove it.  So, sustain yourself in "yours".  Come and be "witty" with me.   Give them life for me. I will bless you.  I will sustain you.  I will challenge you.  In graciousness,  ... you shall have joy. You little fat baby boy, bouncing around on My lap (of luxury).   I have lifted you up.  I have "given" you life.  I will sustain you. Feed Me with your words of praise.  Give unto Me glory "due His Name".   Talk of Me. ____ Whisper malice, but keep secrets alive.  They shall be a brat unto you.  They are not the narrowness of mind.  They are a terror. Come forth in joy.  Joy comes in the morning;  wealth comes in the night.  Stay away from me with all your sorrows.  Fill me with your delight. I come for you ... with a whisper.  I come for you ... with my prayer.                                                                                                              Come forth Mighty Word, and cleanse me.  Come before the door is opened unto me. I was wise with the youth.   I said, "play by yourself".   I was greedy with myself,   ... and said,  "never,  never". But You held my hand, ... and stopped my mouth ... and shut me down.             I will stand alone,  ... and play in a band,  ... but You, my LORD, will come out with my hand. Be jealous.  Be near.  I now need you.   Be wise.   Be strong.   I will receive you,   ... and won't deceive you. I will call upon you, when you're near.   I will help you, why fear ? Give me oil in my lamp I pray, and keep me burning till the break of day. I will close you.  I have chose you.  Be my need.  I will feed. Look up to gesture.   I will cleanse you, and need you near me. I was in that city several times.  I want you there, too.   Close me, ... before it's too late.  I will be there with you, soon.   Jocularity is in it.   I will raise you up.  I will consider you ... for rent.   I will amaze you, there. Give unto me joy.  Laugh off the staff.  Give me oil, ... or I die.   Pleasure me ... with your riff.                          I will slip in beside you.  I will dance with you.  Amaze me.  Joy is on its way.     I will love you.   (Isaiah 42:8) _____ I will lift you up.  You are dear.  Hold me closer still, I am near.  Hold me closer still,  I want you near me. You have filled my desires.  Your wealth in the future ... is sure. You have given me to drink of the river of life.  I will gain you with my sword.  You have given me your life. I was well, with you in my heart.  Hunker down now.   Dig in deep. Sorrow is on its way.  Many men sleep.  Pride, and gainfulness, they say. The proud are far beyond.  Hold me close, they say.  This is your song. I will sustain you.  Learn of Me, and treat Me with respect,  ... not despair.  I will wash you, and make you wise. Be "filled" with My Spirit.  I give you life, and that more abundantly. Keep the cares of this world near Me.  I will see,  and ... I will care. Be stupefied in the midst of your servant.   I will be there to raise, and use you.  Be in me a great joy. Hold fast your profession, count it all for nought.  I will sustain you.  You have been sought, and bought. Hold fast.  Come near.   Be with me,  I plead.  Joy is in the morning.  You are a great seed. Feed the multitudes.  Give them joy.  Filet among them.  This is my boy.   Jewels in your hand, play with them, ... Hey.   Hold them fast, as your profession.  Glory is in them,  ... Sure. I will want them, ... bring them to me.   Give them once, or twice, or daily.They are mine. I will solace you.  Play on with me.  I will comfort you, you will see. Be my provider.  I will lift You up.  Hold me dearer;  fill my cup. I was thirsty, and You remembered.  Solaced to be.   I was with you in the mountains.  I will be with you again.  You are dear to me, you will see.   (Psalms 42:11) Hold me close.   I will use you.   You are Might.   I will be gain.   You will be proud. I will lift you up, out of pleasantness.   Your tomorrows are sure. Be with me now,  ... so close.   Hold me.   Endear me.   Close me.   I am a gaping wound, ... just for you. I was wounded for your transgressions; ... I was bruised for your iniquities.  The chastisement of your peace  was upon me. I need you.  Be still.   Come close.  I will withdraw you.  You are the most. Wounded for my transgressions.   Bruised for my iniquities.  The chastisement of your peace is upon me.   Solaced, in you. I love you, dear LORD.   I lift you up.   Be my pleasure.   Fill my cup. Give me oil in the morning.   My face is day.  You brighten me with Your disgust.   I "trend" You  with my joy. You are my girlfriend to be.  I am your boy.   Hold me close as your lamb.  Put my feet in your earthly clay. I will mostly endear you.   You will come near to me.   I was with you in sadness.  You were near to me in joy. I will be your girlfriend,  you will be my boy. Hold me close to you now.  Give me Spring in the air.  I will be close to you, now.   I have seen you in prayer. Give me oil of discernment;  oil of "gladness".   Oil is on its way.  It makes life seem so much easier.   It makes life so much more tolerable. I will give you "suddenness".  I will give you joy.   Give me oil to the burning;  the joy of my desires. I will give you life.  You shall give me fires.   Fires, of discernment.   Fires, of success. I will never leave you   ...   You  can do the rest." _____ Although, Jacob (the Israelite), ... had his own unique experience with his "visitation" from above, I felt that it would be of help to you,  ... to share an interactive conversation between the "presence of the Lord", and myself.  These personal times are the expression of Word in your soul.  It's when your spirit, and agenda, become "one" with the Spirit of Truth.  (St. John ch.14,15, and  Acts 1:8) Sometimes, you can hardly tell who is doing the talking when you read this.  But, I know, ... and so will you. Each of us have a "destiny",  ... and a unique "image" of expression, of His creative Word.   (don't copy others) * You can't live a "lifestyle",  ... that could take the place of this                                                                   Destiny is more than just "your" story.  It's a fulfillment of God's love and word  ... to this world.   (think about it) It's an expression of God's "dignity".  It's "Light".  It's an exercise of contagious faith,  and obedience. It's radical.  It's life-changing.  It's good.  It's commanding power ... to change things.  It's God's "word" ... going forth.  (when we become nothing) We need to cut out some of ... the self "indulgences", and make room in our day for His intention.  Our Gospel is too full of us. There's not enough "Word of the Spirit" ... being expressed from our lives. We are called to slow down, and  settle into the obedience of it.  Until we stop, we won't  (and can't)  see ... what the presence of God is doing around us It's a whole new world of experience, and faith.  Stress lifts off of us.  A glimmer of sunshine appears, and a "new life" begins.   (that's our destiny) _____ There are many lessons to be learned about the gifts of the Holy Spirit in our lives:  and how we respond to the "delicacy" of the moment. The important first steps in our new life will undoubtedly include a more real consciousness of the Majesty of God;  and a more real picture of who we are.  _____ The Altar It's at the altar, that you experience the sacrificial burning of repentance.  Stay there for a while.  Don't just get up, and runaway. Do it, until your "disillusionary" burns away.  Do it, until the white light of His righteousness arises.  Until your lips are cleansed, and your words  ...  are directed.   There's sickness in it. You will groan with agony.  It's not you.  You will bear the grief of your soul. That's what Jesus did ... in the Garden of Gethsemane. There will be jealousy, and murderous contention all around you. You are too small to make a move.  But, you will.   (the destiny of your ministry will arise)              Arise  ... in the Name of Christ.	Pgs 1 - 25

Chapter two
	The Futuristic Gospel     "Therefore now, says the Lord, turn to Me with all your heart, and with fasting,  and with weeping, and with mourning: Then will the LORD be jealous for His land, and pity His people. Fear not, O land;  be glad and rejoice:  for the LORD will do great things. And you shall eat in plenty, and be satisfied, and praise the Name of the LORD your God, who has dealt wondrously with you.  My people shall never be ashamed. And you shall know ... that I am the LORD your God, and none else:  and My people ... shall never be ashamed. And it shall come to pass, that I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh;  and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy.  Your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: and also upon the servants, and upon the handmaids, I will pour out of My Spirit. And I will show wonders in the heavens  ... and in the earth. And it shall come to pass, ... that whosoever shall call upon the Name of the Lord  ... shall be delivered."                                   - Joel 2:12,18,21,26-32 *The above prophetic scripture ... was quoted by the apostles in Acts ch.2, to describe  ... the manifestation of the Gospel.  ("this  ... is that") _____ Religion is not a new thing.   It has always been around. Men and women that have turned their back on God, and have sought to chase their own ambitions, is not a new thing. Some have religion.   And some have worldly ambition. But, what we want to come to see is that there is a difference between religion,  ... and the whisper of God's intent towards mankind. The message of God's prophets, and evangelists,  has always been about His presence here in this earth,  ... and how we relate to it. Isaiah, the Jewish prophet,  spoke of God's intention for the Jewish people. Then years later, Jesus (moved by the Spirit of the Father) stood up and read it again to the religious people.   There's a plan, here. "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me;  because the LORD has anointed me  to preach good tidings unto the meek;  He has sent me to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives,  and the opening of the prison ... to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God;  to comfort all that mourn. To give unto them that mourn, to give unto them beauty for ashes, ... the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness;  that they might be called trees of righteousness,  ... the planting of the LORD, that He might be glorified. And they shall build the old wastes, they shall raise up the former desolations, and they shall repair the waste cities,  ... the desolations of many generations. I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God;  for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation.  He has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks ... with ornaments, and as the bride adorns ... with her jewels. For as the earth brings forth her bud, and as the garden causes the things that are sown in it to spring forth;  even so, the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth ... before all nations."                         - Isaiah 61:1-4,10,11 *This prophetic scripture was quoted by Jesus in St. Luke 4:17-21,  to describe the  manifestation  of the Gospel.  (the  Spirit of the Lord is upon me to ... Compare also with  ...  the witness to John the Baptist.  (St. Luke 7:17-23) Many years prior to Jesus, King David of Israel also recognized this same gospel. He had a concern for the manifestation of God's Majesty amongst people in this earth.   He wrote out many of his prayers, and songs,  ... and here's one of them.  (He's praying for his son, Solomon) "Give the king your judgments, O God,  ... and your righteousness unto the king's son. He shall judge your people with righteousness, and your poor with judgment. The mountains shall bring peace to the people, and the little hills, by righteousness. He shall judge the poor of the people.   He shall save the children of the needy, and shall break in pieces the oppressor.  They shall fear You (LORD)  as long  ... as the sun and moon endure, ... throughout all generations. Blessed be the Lord God, Who only does wondrous things. Blessed be His glorious Name forever:  and let the whole earth be filled with His glory "  - Psalms 72:1-5,18-20 The apostle Peter, still with the same message,  wrote to the church many years later, "I have written briefly, exhorting, and testifying, that this is the true grace of God ... wherein you stand"                                            - 1 Peter 5:12 But, did they know ... this grace ? Now many years later, again, the majority of the people do not understand this Gospel of the prophets, and the apostles. (which the "early church" experienced)     And so,  we have once again slipped into a form of  religion that does not walk with the Spirit of God. We know how to sing songs, read stories, talk religious, and be excited about activities;   ...  but, most of us don't know the Spirit and all of His exciting activities.   (in our generation) _____   Unholy  "Tradition" Every time I see ambitious church people trying to gain converts with their "4 step" salvation plan, I feel grieved. 1. All have sinned 2. The wages of sin is death 3. Jesus paid the price for our sins on the cross            4. We need to pray ... the "sinner's prayer" (Jesus forgive me, I want to go to heaven when I die) For "some reason" it becomes important to bring out the ten commandments, and have an argument with individuals in a horribly "judgmental" fashion, to convince them that they are sinners.  (and, if they cry,  ...  it's all the better) Now, the next step is to tell them that a wrathful God is going to put them in Hell forever, and they are going to suffer torment forever. Now, ... Jesus got beat up, ... and died for you, in your place, and if you will ask Jesus to forgive you, he will, ... and you will go to heaven ... when you die. Now, ... you are saved.  So, you should probably join the group, and conform.   But, you are saved.      Remember that.  You did say ... the prayer. And me, I am a soul winner. It's easy.  It's just like making "a sale".  Let me "teach you". And so, the game goes on.  The arguing.  The conniving.  The teaching.   The judging.     The "soul winning".                               The part that grieves me, is not the fact that people are trying to serve God, (we need more of that), but rather that they are not presenting  ... the Gospel. When you have convinced someone that they are a sinner, and have helped them to say the "magic prayer", they are still left without the knowledge of the presence of the Holy Spirit; are still without repentance;  ... and still have no clue about the Kingdom of God, and their part in it.  (in "this earth") ____ The Gospel, that the prophets foretold, was not so much a gospel about heaven, but rather, the coming of salvation to the earth; and the out pouring of the Holy Spirit with all that He offers to the people of God's Kingdom.  (Life eternal is - to "know" God,  not" about" God.   - St. John 17:2,3,  1 John ch.1,  and  St. Matthew 7:13-23) It is the "rebuke" of God against the powers of carnality and spiritual wickedness,  so that humanity might be saved from the bondages of death, and destruction. ____ "And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee:  and there went out a fame of him throughout all the region round about.  And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified of all. And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Isaiah.  And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written   ... (Isaiah ch.61) "The Spirit of the LORD is upon me, because He has anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor;  He has sent me to heal the broken hearted, ... to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,  to preach the acceptable year of the LORD." And he closed the book, and gave it to the minister, and sat down.  And he began to say unto them,  ... this day, this scripture that you are hearing, ... is fulfilled." - St. Luke 4:14-21 ____ "Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with a variety of diseases, brought them unto him;  and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them. And devils also came out of many, crying out and saying, You are Christ the Son of God.  And he, rebuking them, told them not to speak:  for they knew ... that he was Christ. And when it was day, he departed, and went into a desert place and the people sought him, and came unto him, and stayed him  that he should not depart from them. And he said unto them, I must preach the Kingdom of God to other cities also:  for therefore  ... am I sent."      - St. Luke 4:40-43 ____ When he read from Isaiah ch.61, he stopped where he did because the Holy Spirit had not yet been experienced by these people.   They only knew religion. The rest of the chapter ... is the call of the Gospel upon the people, after they become acquainted with the Spirit of God. (Read Isaiah 61:4-11, St. John ch.14,15,16,  and  Ephesians ch.4) Now, when we are fulfilling this heavenly Gospel that is being expressed in the earth, we can pick up on the "experience" of this phenomenon from the book of Acts. In this next section, we will look at several of the messages that the apostles preached, ... and see how the people responded.	Pgs 26 - 36

Chapter three
	Ignoring the Witness If you're not too familiar with some of these scriptures, that's alright;  but I always think that it's interesting to go back and see what they were actually saying to the people. So, let's forget about being religious for a moment  and see if we can become a good enough detective to hear what they were saying.         Example one  ...    First "Preaching" (after Holy Ghost outpouring) "But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them,  ... this is that which was spoken of by the prophet Joel ...  (Joel ch.2) And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh:  ... and your sons, and your daughters shall prophesy, ... and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: And on My servants, and on My handmaidens, I will pour out in those days of My Spirit;  and they shall prophesy: And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD ...  shall be saved. Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles, and wonders, and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, ... delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, was crucified, and slain.    Whom God has raised up, having loosed the pains of death:  because it was not possible  ... that he should be held of it. For David spoke, concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved:  therefore, did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad;  moreover also,  ... my flesh shall rest in hope:  because You will not leave my soul in hell, neither will You suffer Your holy one ... to see corruption. You have made known unto me ... the ways of life;  You shall make me full of joy ... with Your countenance.  (Holy Spirit) David, prophesied of the resurrection of Christ (vs.31).  Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, He has shed forth this  which you see, and hear. Therefore, let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God has made that same Jesus, whom you have crucified,  ... both Lord, and Christ. Now, when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter, and to the rest of the apostles, men and brethren, what shall we do ?        Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins,  and "you" shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto "you", and "your children",  and to all that are afar off, even to as many as the Lord our God shall call. Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized;  and the same day ... there were added unto them about three thousand  souls. And they continued steadfastly in the apostle's teaching, and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: ... and many wonders, and signs, were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, praising God, and having favor with all the people.  And the Lord added to the church daily, such as should be saved."                                                         - Acts ch.2 This whole event is talking about "turning to God's Spirit", being baptized in water (for the remission of sins) in the name of Jesus Christ, receiving the "gift and promise" of the Spirit, (for this is a gift, and promise)  and continuing in fellowship, and in prayer, and in this  teaching. This is ... the "day of the Lord" in the earth.  (Isaiah ch.61,62)   ____ Watch now, and see how these people walked in this life.   It's just like the prophets said it would be. Example     two    The Gospel is "in the earth"  - Acts ch.3,4 "Then Peter said, such as I have I give unto you;  in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up:  and immediately his feet and anklebones received strength.  And leaping up, he stood and walked,  ... and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. And, as the lame man, which was healed, held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch, that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering. And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people,  Why do you marvel at this ?   Why do you look so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness, we had made this man to walk ?   The God of our fathers has glorified His Son Jesus.  And the things which God had before shown by the mouth of all His prophets, that Christ should suffer, He has so fulfilled. Repent therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord. (Acts 3:1-19) (comp: with Isaiah ch.61) This record says that many of the people which heard the word believed,  and the number of them was about five thousand.   But, lots of trouble from the religious and political people was about to come.  They had a measure of control, and they didn't want to lose it. Peter and John were taken captive by the captain of the temple (Acts 4:1-4),  but they continued to preach this "earthly" salvation   ... of God's love. Be it known unto you all, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead;  even by him, does this man stand here before you whole.   (comp: St. John ch.14-16) Neither is there salvation in any other, ... for there is no other name under heaven, given among men, whereby we must be "saved".  (Acts 4:12)  - Gk. Sozo - deliver, protect, heal, make whole And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.   Well, the leaders were dumbfounded.  This was not the normal kind of religion that they had experienced. So, Peter and John are told not to preach any more like this,  and then let go.  (Acts 4:15-23) And what do you think they did ? They went right back to their group and called a prayer meeting.  "Let's all meet with the Spirit of God, and see what He has to say". ... (and  they all prayed) Now Lord, behold their threatenings:  and grant unto Your servants that they may speak Your Word with all boldness, by stretching forth Your hand to heal,  and that signs,  and  wonders,  may be done by the name of Your holy child Jesus. And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together;  and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost,  and they spoke the Word of God  with boldness.  (the "witness" to the gospel of Christ - St. John ch.15)  And with great power, the apostles gave witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all." - Acts ch.4 What we see here, has nothing to do with "organized tradition", not even soul winning.  The preaching is about establishing this message of Christ in this earth, (Acts 2:32-35, Ephesians ch.1,2), and to establish a "people " ... in the Kingdom of God.  All the confidence that these preachers had was placed in the "witness of the Holy Ghost".   (Spirit power) The power, and authority, of this "salvation" message comes out of heavenly places, ... and is poured out in the earth  ... upon all flesh.  Out of darkness will arise a "light", the prophets had said. But, you cannot be this "light" apart from God's Spirit.  He has His own mind, and His own ministry to the people of the earth.  You can act religious, but you will be out of step, and lost.    (we must listen to Him) (Isaiah ch.61, (vs.1), ch.62,63,64, Joel ch.1,2,3, 1 Corinthians ch.2, Colossians ch.1,2) _____   We are God's creation.   This isn't about one culture being better than another,  or one religion judging another. When we learn to fellowship with the Spirit of the Father, and listen to Him,  we will find that He has spoken His truths, and shared His fellowship, with all the nations of the earth.    The prophets may have been named with "cultural" names,  but the Spirit of God is still the great Creator of all the universe.    He is God of all.    The problem that we run into is that people get hung up on "cultural" differences,  rather than hearing what the Spirit of God would say. Most sectarianism is driven by the same political spirit that creates and segregates cultures. If we will only give our lives to Him,  He will push our intellectual boundaries out,  and transform our lives in a "born again" experience to become His sons, and daughters. In the next example we will see the struggle that these people had, as they joined forces with  ... the Creator. He is far bigger than we are usually led to believe. Example    three        One Gospel "for all"  Acts ch.10,11 "Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:  but, in every nation he that fears Him, and works righteousness  (St. John 3:17-21), is accepted  ... with Him. The word that God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ:  that word, I say, you know,  ...   which was published throughout all Judea ... How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost, and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil;  for God was with him. And we are witnesses of all things that he did, both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem;  whom they slew, and hanged on a tree:  Him, God raised up the third day, and showed him openly;  not to all the people,  but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him, after he rose from the dead.    And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he that is ordained of God ... the Judge of the living, and the dead. To him, give all the prophets witness, that through his name, whosoever believes in him ... shall receive remission of sins. While Peter yet spoke these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them that  ... heard the word.  (the Holy Spirit witness) And they of the circumcision (the Jews) that believed, and came with Peter, were astonished, because on the Gentiles also was poured out the "gift of the Holy Ghost";  for they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. (comp: 1 Corinthians ch.14) Then Peter said, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, who have received  the Holy Ghost as well as we ? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord.  Then, they prayed him to tarry certain days. - Acts 10:34-48 Now, the next chapter (Acts ch.11) records the confusion that these preachers faced. They thought that they had gotten this all figured out, and they had been preaching for some time now, ... and then this ... had to happen. Well, Peter had some explaining to do, and so a conference was scheduled in Jerusalem to discuss these new events. "And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him;  and Peter rehearsed the matter, saying,      ... As I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning. Then, I remembered the word of the Lord; how that he said John indeed baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. Forasmuch then, as God gave them the same gift as He did unto us  who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ;  who was I, that I could withstand God ?  (we see the "Witness") When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, then God has also granted unto the Gentiles ... repentance unto life. - Acts ch.11 ____ Peter wasn't the only one.   Now, in Acts ch.13,   we see Paul going on his own fast ride with the Spirit of God. He's trying to put this into words that can be related to ... so that he has an explanation. And once again, (just as Jesus had), he reaches to the prophecy of Isaiah. "Be it know unto you, men and brethren, that through this man (Jesus)  is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins;  and by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which you could not be justified ... by the law of Moses.  For so the Lord commanded us, saying,  I have set you to be a light of the Gentiles, (See: Isaiah ch.62)   that  you  should  be  for  salvation unto the ends of the earth." - Acts 13:38,39,47 His message was clear.   "Through these preachers" was preached the forgiveness of sins.    This is the light.   God is accepting people.  This is the day of salvation. The Spirit of God is showing forth His own witness.   He's not shy, but He does ask for our cooperation.          ____   In Acts ch.14,  we see Paul hard at work, again.  And the Spiritual light is shining.         "And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked. The same heard Paul speak:  who steadfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed, said with a loud voice,  Stand upright on your feet.  And he leaped and walked.  *(understand the "witness":  St. Luke 4:17-21, and  ch.7:17-23) And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying, The gods have come down to us, in the likeness of men.  And they called Barnabas, Jupiter;  and Paul, Mercurius, because he was the chief speaker. Then the priest of Jupiter, which was before that city, brought oxen, and garlands, unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people.    And when the apostles, Barnabas, and Paul, heard of this, they tore their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out,  Why do you do these things ? We also, are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you, that you should turn from these vanities unto the "living" God, who made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:  Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways. Nevertheless, He never left Himself without witness, in that He did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with ... gladness. And with these sayings, they barely restrained the people, from doing sacrifice ... unto them." - Acts 14:8-18          This is a good example of the Gospel manifesting itself as a light amongst a people that were dedicated to serving, and worshiping, false gods. The gospel is more than talk, and vain opinion. It's a manifestation of "presence".  (1 Corinthians ch.2) (Important Study: St. Luke 4:17:21, and ch.7:17:23,  St. Mark 16:15-20,  Joel,  Acts) ____ Peter, and Paul, had been out.   They weren't sitting comfortably in the church, planning one self-indulgent activity, after another. But, because they had been walking with the Spirit of God,  many radical things had happened, and they had some explaining to do. So, here we have another Jerusalem conference. ____ Example   Four       The Jerusalem Conference   Acts ch.15 "And when they had come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles, and elders,  ... and they declared all the things that God had done with them. But, there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees, which believed, saying, that it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses. And the apostles, and elders, came together to consider this matter. And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ... you know how that a good while ago, God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe.  And God, who knows the hearts, bare them "witness", giving them the Holy Ghost, even as He did unto us;  and put no difference between us, and them;  ... purifying their hearts by faith. Now, why do you tempt God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers, nor we, were able to bear ?   We believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they. Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, who declared what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them."  (Vs.4-12) But then, ... after this "conference" ... Somehow, as the church spread, tradition began to creep into the preaching and teaching, and second generation belief ... became more concerned with establishing what was the acceptable doctrine, than having the witness of the Holy Ghost. Argument, opinion, and sects, came. The Jewish law was left behind, and tradition eventually became the standard. ____ A Wrong Emphasis This emphases upon the "beliefs" (creed) of the "Christian Church" had gotten out of hand so badly that it wasn't until the Council of Constantinople (381 AD), that belief in the Holy Spirit was added to the Nicene Creed. The authority lay in the "law of the Church", rather than in the "witness of the Holy Ghost". For years the Christian Church has borrowed from its previous generation in an attempt to establish its belief system. (how sad) Any break with tradition is a fearful thing. The clergy have been taught it.  The people have been taught it. The foundation of their religious belief is rooted in "law",  ... and for the most part they do not teach  ... "to know God". The gospel that is being preached is an empty opinion, and void of the "knowledge" of the presence of the Spirit. This gospel appeals to Jewish "law" (ten commandments) for judgment, rather than to the conscience and spirit of the human being. The conscience of the individual is under bondage, and needs to be "released" to fellowship with the Spirit of truth.  (St. John 14:16,17,26,  1 Corinthians ch.2)         We can still read the apostle Paul's words to the Roman church  ... "For there is no respect of persons with God. As many as have sinned without the law, ... shall also perish without the law:  and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law;  for not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified. (Clear conscience) For when the Gentiles which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these having not the law, are a law unto themselves:  who "show" the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts meanwhile accusing, or else, excusing  one another. This is the day when God  shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, (by that message of the gospel)   ...  according to the gospel." - Romans ch.2 * See: St. John 14:16-18,26,27, ch.15,  ch.16:7-13,  Romans ch.8,  Hebrews 9:14	Pgs 37 - 58

Chapter four
	Ignoring the Gospel Paul the Apostle's Message         "And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech, or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.    (please, stop, ... and figure this out) For I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. *And my speech, and my preaching,  ... was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit, and of power;  that "your faith" should not stand in the wisdom of men,  ... but, in the power of God. But, as it is written, eye has not seen, nor ear heard, neither has it entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for them that love Him.   But, God has revealed them unto us by His Spirit:  for the Spirit searches all things;  yea, the deep things of God. Now we have not received the spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.  Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teaches, but which the Holy Ghost teaches; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But, the natural man receives not the things of the spirit of God:  for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned." - 1 Corinthians 2:1-14                           What the apostle is saying here, is that he doesn't want to know, or judge, anything about them. He just wants to know what the Spirit of God is saying about them, and their situation; for this gospel is a word of "revelation".  This is the foundation for "your faith".    (read: St. Matthew chs.7 and 13, and ch.16:15-19)                              Whatever Your Religion No matter, whether you are a Jew, a Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, a Christian, or a nationalist heathen, what I am about to show you,   ... may surprise you. Most of the world religions believe in "similar" ideals. It's the individual ambitious people within these groups that exercise rage, and condemnation. Common to all the "beliefs" of these groups is the idea of love, and goodness, and the idea that we should get along with our neighbor.   We should worship God, and dedicate our lives to Him.  We make pilgrimages, give money, and time.  The more mature "believers" understand moderation, controlled desire, cosmic harmony, simplicity, meditation, enlightenment, laws, and tradition. Whatever name one is living under, basically we are all saying the same thing.  What this discussion is going to lead to ... is the big question.  How honest, and open, are you ?   Are you caught up in the activities of your group, or maybe a family tradition ?  Sooner, or later, ... we will have to have a "one on one" with God. We are headed for a spiritual life, even if we don't want to be. When we leave this body, it's all going to be "spiritual".    Let's see ... what we can learn.    ...          "For there is no respect of persons with God.  As many as have sinned without the law shall also perish without the law:  and as many as have sinned in the law, shall be judged by the law.  For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.  (Clear conscience) For when the Gentiles which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these having not the law, are a law unto themselves:  Who "show" the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts meanwhile accusing, or else, excusing one another."         - Romans ch.2 ____       There is Law                                 Whether one is at home, at school, on the job, or at a hotel, we know that laws are real, and present with us all the time. When we think of the universe, we think of laws that keep things in order. God is the origin of the principle of "law", and His word is the origin of everything ... that is. As human beings, we are born into this ongoing maze of laws, opinions, and traditions, and if we are not keen to be open to the leading of God's Spirit, we will find ourselves under the bondage, and destruction, of someone's "good idea". It is generally accepted, that there are at least half a dozen of these laws that we relate to in our religion;  but for our purposes, I want to refer to four that the apostle Paul referred to in his letter to the Romans (chs.1-10), as he explained the Gospel. 1. the Universal Law of God 2. the Jewish Law of God 3.  the Fleshly Law of Sin and Death 4.  the Law of the "Spirit of Life" * Which "Law" Are You Embracing ? 1. The "universal" law of God  -  Paul says, basically, that "every person knows".  He councils that an individual should not hold the truth in unrighteousness, and choose to follow vain imaginations.     (Romans 1:18-22, 2:9-23,  comp:  St. John 3:16-21) 2. The "Jewish" law of God  - Paul points out to these people that they are breaking their own laws, even though they are telling everyone that these are God's laws. (Romans 2:17-29) Whether you are a Jew, Muslim, or Hindu, we might therefore conclude that people are not living up to the "expectations" of their laws, ... so, all have sinned.  (Romans 3:9-20,23, Acts 14:15) There is no fear of God before them. There are too many distractions, self-serving desires, and ambitions, to delight in. 3. The "fleshly law of sin and death" - this is the passion to be somebody:  the lust for satisfaction, and indulgence. This is encouraged by those who follow after "living the life" without God.  (You'll be as a god yourself, the serpent said. - Genesis 3:1-9)  Sadly enough, many religious parents are at this level of ambitious counseling to their children, even now. This "law" follows after worldly wisdom, and alienation from God; and there are some very dogmatic preachers of this message.  The apostle goes into detail about how this war of passion rages in each of us to bring about our condemnation and demise.  (we can even be sinfully ambitious in a religious group) Our religious "group joining", ... "prayer saying", "tradition keeping", efforts won't change the fact that we are scarred with sin; and have tendencies to keep sinning. (Romans 7:5-25) The question isn't about whether or not I broke a Jewish law, a Muslim law, or a Hindu law, because we all know that none of those laws have been perfectly kept.  The end of this road is either disillusion,  or perfect condemnation. Our "good works" always fall short, because they are not His works.  The Spirit of God ... has His own intentions in the earth. Romans ch.6 ... "Know you not, that as many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?  Therefore, we are buried with him by baptism into death:  that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.   For, if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness ... of his resurrection.  Know this, that our old nature is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, and henceforth we should not serve sin.  For he that is dead is freed from sin.  (See:  St. John chs.14,15,16,  Romans ch.12,  Acts 1:8) Now, if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him;  knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dies no more.  Death has no more dominion over him.  For in that he died, he died unto sin once:  but in that he lives, he lives unto God.  Likewise, reckon you also your selves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.    (See also: Romans 8:11-14, and Titus 3:3-7) Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that you should obey it in the lusts thereof.  Neither yield your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin:  but, yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.  For sin shall not have dominion over you:  for you are not under the law, but under grace.  What then ?   Shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace ?   God forbid. Know you not, that to whom you yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants you are to whom you obey;  whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness ? For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."   (also: St. John 17:3, 1John chs.1-5) In Romans 3:19-29, and ch.4:1-7,  the apostle makes the point that we are not in debt to God,  so that we have to work off our bad deeds;  but rather the faith of Christ, and Abraham, is to believe in the grace of God, and walk accordingly. "Where is boasting then ?  It is excluded.  By what law ?  Of works ?   No, but by the law of faith.  Therefore we conclude, that a man is justified by faith ... without the deeds of the law." - Romans 3:27-28 ____ Romans 7:22-25 ... "For I delight unto the law of God after the inward (me), but I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin, which is in my members.  (this "judging knowledge",  the law of sin and death) O wretched man that I am!   Who shall deliver me from the body of this death ? I thank God, through Jesus Christ our Lord.  So with the mind, I myself serve the law of God;  but with the flesh, the law of sin." ____ * Romans ch.8  "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, (in his message),   who walk not after the flesh,  but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life has made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:  that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.  (no more carnal judging by law 1 Corinthians ch.2) For they that are after the flesh, do mind the things of the flesh;  but they that are after the Spirit, the things of the Spirit.  For to be carnally minded, is death;  but to be Spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  So then, they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But, you are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you.  Now, if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.  And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin;  but the Spirit is life, because of righteousness.  (follow after the "voice of the Spirit" - Revelation ch.2,3)   4. The "law of the Spirit of Life in Christ" Paul, having eliminated all confusion about religion, law, and man's efforts to live for God; he now directs everyone to the necessity of the Holy Spirit.  Good conduct, judging, and striving, are not part of this law. This is the Spirit of God that we are dealing with.  His ways may not be like ... our ways. When we would condemn, or judge others (or, our self), He sees things differently.  He sees things from an eternal perspective.  He sees things from beginning to end.  He doesn't desire to hurt, and destroy, but rather He builds up, and brings life. He sees the struggling human as "forgiven" ... because of His grace. He is looking for a quieted, listening ear. He wants to speak to our intuition.  He wants to give us vision ... to see the way He sees. He is waiting on our "ready response", our eager quest for understanding.  He is the Spirit of your life.  He is the Spirit of God.  (Let your conscience be forgiven, and refreshed.  Take on His purpose)      Romans ch.8  ... "But, if the Spirit of Him that raised up Jesus from the dead, dwell in you,  He that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies  ... by  His Spirit ...  that dwells in you. Therefore brethren, we are not debtors to the flesh, to live after the flesh.  For if you live after the flesh, you shall die:  but, if you through the Spirit, do mortify the deeds of the body, you shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the Sons of God.  The Spirit itself bears witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.  (and  "joint heirs"  with Christ - Romans 8:17) Likewise, the Spirit also helps our weakness:  for we don't really know what we should pray for, as we ought:  but, the Spirit itself makes intercession for us with groanings that cannot be put into words. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God: ... to them who are the called according to His purpose. For He foreknew us, and He also predetermined to conform us into the image of His Son,  that he might be the firstborn ... among many brethren." This blessing to the world wasn't born out of the law of Moses, nor man's attempt to be religious.  But rather, this blessing came from the promise of God to Abraham, that out of his family would rise a Savior, who would proclaim the law of "faith".   (Galatians ch.3) It makes no difference, whether you are Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, or traditional Christian.  The question isn't whether one religion has a better law than the other:  because apart from the "law of the Spirit of Life",  ... there is no "salvation". This gospel is "universal".  It is the answer to your "short-comings", and has power to deliver from sin, and sickness, because of the Holy Spirit. Apart from the Holy Spirit, there is no "law of the Spirit of Life".  Apart from the realization of the Spirit to believe in God's grace, and forgiveness, our conscience remains under bondage, and condemnation, ... without confidence. This gospel is for here, and now. "Repent, and be baptized, every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off;  even to as many as the Lord our God shall call." - Acts 2:38,39 "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:  from such ... turn away." - 2 Timothy 3:1-5 _____   Which "Gospel" are You Embracing ? There is a "gospel" that states that all men are sinners, because they broke one of the ten Commandments that was given to Moses for the people of Israel.  (see: Acts ch.15,  for this conflict) This misunderstood message is that Jesus died upon the cross, and is the Savior of the world.  If we acknowledge that we are sinners, and ask Jesus to come into our hearts we will be saved. (meaning, "go to heaven when we die")   So, the individual bows his, or her, head, ... says the "repeat after me" prayer, and is "saved".  Then, they are told it's time to join the group, make some new friends, and learn the traditions. (get involved)         This is not the Gospel. This doesn't sound anything like the Gospel that Jesus, and the apostles, preached.     (Romans 6:14-16)    If sin is disobedience to God,  ... then we had better return to  "hearing and obeying" Him. Jesus, and the apostles, preached that it is the  "law of sin and death" that works in us, because of the "judging condemnation" that we all carry since from the beginning. This law "wars" inside of every human, Jew, or Gentile:  no matter what religion.  (Romans 2:15,  St. Matthew chs.7,18,  St. Mark 12:28-40,  St. John chs.3,4,5, and  Romans chs.5,6,7,8 )              It is this law that we need to find deliverance from, in order to be reconciled to God. It is this struggling conscience that alienates and destroys.  (the struggle of a condemned  "conscience"  - Hebrews 9:14, ch.10) The apostle Paul points out in Romans that no religious law can free us from this bondage of sin and death:  but, in "faith" we are justified.  Now, here is how we experience  this.   (Romans ch.10) We die out to our ambitious "self-serving" life.  We die out to judging and condemnation of others, and of our self.  Dead.   No more "self serving".  No more self-righteous law keeping, and law breaking. By putting our sinful nature, and condemnation, to an end, we are free. This we do in "faith". Does this mean ... that we are free to continue in sin ?   God forbid.   We are just beginning to get a hold of the faith of Christ.  He followed the Spirit.  (Romans chs.6, 8, and 12) This Christ Gospel is for the whole world. The "sin condition" is a universal one:  not just a Jewish one.  Can you imagine trying to tell a Muslim, that because he didn't keep a Jewish law he is doomed ?   (Acts ch.2, ch.10:34-48, and ch.15,  Isaiah ch.57-62, Joel ch.2) It is to be noted that every time this Gospel was either foretold, or later explained, God always promised to put "His word" in the people's hearts, and in their mouths.  And He always said that the rest of the world ... would come to this "light" for salvation. His "Word" in our hearts, and mouths.  (what a concept)    Do you hear this being preached ?   Could this be the "Spirit of Prophecy", that is the "testimony" of Jesus ?  (Revelation 1:9,10,  ch.19:10,   1 Peter 4:11, Galatians ch.3, 1 Corinthians ch.14,  Romans ch.8, ch.12,  and  St. John chs.14,15,16) "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus,  who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.  For the law of the Spirit of Life ... in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.  For as many as are led by the Spirit of God,  ... they are the sons of God."     - Romans 8:1,2,14              It is important to "possess" the quickening Spirit of God in your life. This is not an intellectual opinion change, brought about by the will of man.  It is more than a chosen "belief".    (St. John 1:12-14) It is more than getting someone to agree with you about a Bible story about Jesus.  (St. Matthew 7:15-23, St. John 3:1-8,19, ch.15) It's more than getting someone to attend church, sing in the choir, teach Bible studies, and evangelize. It's a Spiritual experience, where we lay down our ambition, self-condemnation, and judging of others.  We are free of this load of sin and death because it is placed upon the grace of God's forgiveness, by faith.  But, there is still nothing until the witness of the Spirit of God.  There must be a Spiritual witness.  There is no shortcut.   (Romans 8:1-14,  St. John 10:26-30,37) "So then, they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  But, you are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now, if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His. But, if the Spirit of Him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, He that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies ...  by His Spirit that dwells in you. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For the law of the "Spirit of life in Christ Jesus" has made me free from the law of "sin and death."                                     - Romans 8:8,9,11,14,2           Not in the Flesh, ... But in the Spirit We cannot see "Spiritual" people born from carnal evangelism. As ambitious as one might be, there is no replacement for the Spirit of God.  You may produce converts, but that's all they will be. If you don't understand what a "born again" believer is, then how will they ?    If you have settled for a "traditional" form of faith, then, so will they. By sharing Bible verses with someone, and getting them to believe in your idea, or how much fun your church is, does not bring about "new birth" in a person's life. If you are not working with the Holy Spirit, then you are working in the flesh, and cannot please God, nor produce fruit. (St. John ch.15)   That's why Jesus said, that you can't get good fruit from a corrupt tree.  (St. Luke 6:43-45)   One needs to be moving in obedience to the Spirit, to have Spiritual results.  (St. John 14:10-17, ch.17:1-8, and 1 Peter 4:11) Someone says, I can put the Bible anywhere, and someone will get saved.  (that idea  is born from the school of tradition, and creed) My response to that, is that God can do anything that He wants to.  (we understand that)   But, Jesus taught his disciples that his people would be "fruit bearers" if they were a part of him.  (St. John ch.15) It's a barren tree that is removed, and thrown into the fire.  I would be checking to see, whether or not, I am a "fruit bearer". There is also the consideration of bringing forth this fruit unto perfection, that it also might "bear fruit".   (St. Luke 8:14,15, St. John ch.17)      What we see flowing through people that are in Christ, is the Spirit of God ... reconciling the world unto Himself.  This is one of the evidences of the "new life" that we have in Christ.  His people take upon them His nature, His "calling", and His ability. Our faith, and Spiritual "Word", are contagious.  (they also bring forth the same) ____ Summary Everybody in the world has a religious view, and your influence, (whatever it may be),  will always work its way back to you.  Don't wait for others to welcome you.  Figure out your "influence" now.  This is an exercise of your faith.  You shall expand upon your right hand, and upon your left. God is the God of "realization", and the God of favor.  (your "influence" starts with you) Human nature takes pride in "knowing about", and being able to judge.  This is contrary to the spontaneity of "Spiritual presence".  Our message is not one of judgment, but rather a "present word of reconciliation" to God.  (2 Corinthians 5:18-21)                             Don't go with your traditional way.  Tradition's first statement is that there is no "present" experience of Presence and Spiritual activity: thus, the "remembrances",   ... and traditions. Everything that tradition is based upon, is past experience: not faith in the spontaneous presence of the Spirit of God. Because we have been copying, and borrowing, from the past traditions of the church, ... we have a problem with "presence". To preach the Gospel, you do not need a learned tradition, but rather, a "prophetic word" from the LORD. (St. Matthew 10:7-42, St. Mark 16:15-20,  Acts chs.1-28,  Romans 10:8-17, ch.12,  and  1 Corinthians ch.2)   Fruit is not a person with a particular "belief".   It is rather the overflowing of "faith" from a man, or woman,  who has found God's "presence".  (St. John ch.17 esp. vs.3) It's important to seek to please God, rather than man.   We are not "social workers";  but rather,  ... "Kingdom workers". Although the Gospel is "good news", it is strenuously opposed by a rebellious world. (1 Thessalonians ch.2)   Those who proclaim it must do so with simplicity, and leave the message clear. (1 Corinthians 1:17-31,  2 Corinthians ch.4,    Ephesians 6:10-20,  and  St. John ch.15)   In this world, there are those who refuse the Gospel, and those who accept. (1 Corinthians 1:18)  ("Refuse" - vs.19-23   "Accept" - vs.24-31) We are not the judge;  ... but rather, we rejoice in this Salvation that God has provided for us.  "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God,   ... they are the sons of God.  For you have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear;  but you have received the spirit of adoption,  ... whereby we cry,  Father." - Romans 8:14,15 _____ This Chapter also contains an important section on "Fruit Bearing" and an outline of the Letter to the Romans.	Pgs 59 - 100

Chapter five
	The War of the Flesh            Lust and Desire   Gk. "Epithumia"    epi - covering thumia - passion This human passion is not a creature of subjection.  It is awakened, and pushed forward onto the stage of life ... to subvert, and try to "rule" in God's creation.  (It is the "wild fire"  of life) Even before Eve ate of the "forbidden fruit" (Genesis 3:6),  she was tempted to break God's command to Adam.  The fruit looked pleasing, gave wisdom, and was good food.   She justified her "step of faith", ate it, and  ... gave some to her husband to eat.  Now, they would be like gods, and would be able ... to rule. Their gift of "judging" replaced the utterance of God.  This now awesome responsibility released the "heartless fury" of judging, guilt, and war, upon the human.  Only the "love of God" could fix the dilemma.  The earth now had  "the law of sin and death" being passionately proclaimed to the human; not only by man, but also by every other enemy of God.   Passion, is what drives life, creativity, and accomplishment.  This is God's breath in our soul.  But, when this power is not under the rule of God's utterance, it raises fear, selfishness, and hurt.  And when this passion is coupled with the "eye of judgment", it condemns. So, now we have the choice.  Either, we put our faith into hearing God's wisdom, or man's wisdom.  Once we have picked our source, ... then we still have to have faith to make it our own thought, and to "passionately" act upon it. (St. Luke 8:10-18) A written law handled by the wisdom of man will always in the end bring condemnation.  It is the Spirit of God  ... that gives life.  (2 Corinthians ch.3,  St. John ch.3, ch.4:1-30, ch.6:63,  Romans ch.8, Revelation 2:7)  "Repent therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord."                                 - Acts 2:38-40, and 3:19                                    Repentance, is not just a change of direction in what we think is "right and wrong", or accepting a "new view" on how we believe that we should live our lives. It is rather, our finding of a "new source" for determining how our passions will be directed. Passion doesn't like to be impeded.  It's like any other force in the spiritual realm;  ... if you discourage it, it will leave. Like the wind, it is a force that will move one in the direction of its intent. This "passion of man" uses man's intellect to carry out these activities.  What lingers in the mind, and senses, suddenly becomes overwhelmingly alive. (Romans 16:19,20)   When we understand this "breath of life", we can remove the authority of it in our lives, and move on to new, and better, things. It has been said, "Where there is no vision, the people perish".  In other words, if you have no vision, purpose, or direction, the unruly winds of passion will move you in their own directions of lawlessness, and sin. One must have Spiritual direction.   (Proverbs 29:18) The "born again" idea that Jesus spoke of  (St. John ch.3),  deals with this area of "passion", rather than the judgment area of right and wrong. The priest that Jesus spoke to about this had dedicated his life to being an example, and teacher, of religious living;  and yet, he needed to be born again of the Spirit. The encounter that Jesus had with the rich, young, ruler, once again illustrates that "law abiding" is not the area of concern.  The young man lived a good life; but his passion did not belong to God, nor did he serve God's Kingdom.   (St. Luke ch.18) "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God."                                           - Romans 8:14                            The declaration of the Gospel of Christ has always been the revelation of God's "Spirit word" ... to man's understanding. When He spoke to the prophets about the "light" in the earth, it was His "word" that was heard, and "Word" that He said He would make  ... evident to men and women.  (Jeremiah 31:31-34) When the ministry of Jesus was born, it was the Word that became flesh, and became evident amongst us.  This is the "light".  (St. John ch.1) Jesus promised that when the Holy Breath would be given to men, ...  He would be the Spirit of Truth, and these  "words" would live in the ... hearts of the people.  (St. John ch.14,15) It is recorded, that when Jesus was tempted  (in areas of passion),  that he answered  that man shall not live by bread alone, but "by every word that proceeds  from the mouth of God".  (Please note, that he didn't say a "learned belief".  This is not about man's wisdom, or religious knowledge.  It's about proceeding prophetic "word"  - St. Matthew 4:4) When the Spirit of God was poured out upon the disciples in the upper room, ... tongues like fire appeared over each of them, and people heard the "word" in their own language.  (Acts ch.2) If you are looking for a "word of direction" for your passion, then it is to this Spirit of Truth, that you must go.  (St. John 14:16-27, Jeremiah 31:31-34,  St. Mark ch.4,  2 Corinthians 3:2,3,  Hebrews 8:10, ch.10:14-24)   Many of the negative issues that we wrestle with in our lives, are not readily understood by us.  Some of these passionate activities have their root in past hurts, anger, fear, guilt, deception, and false ambition, transferred to us by others. (also "demonic" seduction)    As our passions rage, life is given to these hindering expressions.   Without the ministry of the Holy Spirit, it is impossible to dream of freedom, and salvation.  (1 Corinthians ch.2, Romans ch.8 esp. vs.26) Adam and Eve  (DNA) When God envisioned, and created, human beings, there were specific DNA characteristics that He embedded into them so that they would look a certain way, and act a certain way. This specific genetic information, when breathed upon by the Spirit of life, functions with passion.   It's a part of creation. When God said, "Let there be light", there was light.  And He called the light "day", and the darkness "night". When God spoke to the waters to be gathered into one place, that happened, and land appeared. When God created humans, He spoke specific characteristics into them.  (the "genetic embedding" of your passions)        He said,  ...  Genesis 1:26-28  ... "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness, and let him have dominion.   And God blessed them, and God said unto them  ... 1.  be fruitful and multiply 2.  replenish the earth 3.  subdue it 4.  and have dominion         1. Be fruitful, and multiply   (Heb. parah - "reproductive" increase,  fruit that bears fruit)      The passion of this trait  is the  sex drive,  and social drive. 2. Replenish the earth (Heb. mala - to furnish, to build)     The passion of this trait,  is the creative drive for wealth,  and expansion. 3. Subdue it (control)  This is the passion to conquer, control, and harness energy,  ... for food, shelter, and security. 4. Have dominion over every living creature.   (Heb. rawa - "take" authority, tread down)   The passion to "take over",  subjugate and rule,  to have power. There is nothing wrong with these passions.  They are resident in our flesh, because God put them there. (the "lusts" of the flesh)    It is the disobedience to the word of God's Spirit that is sin. *(Romans 14:14,22,23,  Galatians 5:1,13-26, and  James 4:17) These 4 areas of human passion are the areas that must be given over to God's leadership, and empowerment.  If we don't have the awareness of "Spiritual passion" (vision) in our lives, we are on the road to experiencing opportunities that will lead us to the lost "existence" of futility and death.  These are the areas that pride and demonic spirits seek to appeal to ... so that we can "fulfill" these raging desires.  Many times people fall into this trap  "just because the opportunity is there".  If there is no opportunity, then this force has no place to go.  Many of us would do well, if we just learned this simple lesson. Just as God creates things out of the Spirit realm, even so our opportunities are born out of the same.  We put our faith in that which God shows to us.  And when we get excited about the vision that God shows to us, then half the battle is won.  We now have a place for our passions to be fulfilled;  and it's right in the faith destiny of the Creator's intention.  (Galatians ch.5, and Romans ch.8) Those who have spent their life living out of carnal sources will have to stop looking to those sources to find their answers about life.  This includes education and religion.  (St. John ch.3, Romans 8:14)    God has a new and specific life for you, as you let Him be God. When we consider the first human, we see that Adam had "no idea" what he was going to wake up to when God brought him to life, and awareness.   He didn't know what his DNA was.  He didn't know what God's plan was.   We see his first "waking experiences".                                   Adam  (first man) There are 4 introductions that God gave to Adam  (Genesis ch.2) 1. The Garden of Eden - this is an example of God's interest in "earthly placement".  It was all new to Adam, but the message is to "look around", and be open to "God's leading". 2. The command about the Tree - God's "uttered" Word is specific.  This was not just a "good idea", or a religious belief, taken from a book.  This was the "voice" of the Spirit.  (see: Genesis 3:1,8,10,11) 3. Introduced to the Other Living Creatures - this is an illustration of God's designed purpose, and calling, for your life. (Your destiny)    Don't be shy.  Come forth.   ("Prophetic" dominion - Ephesians1;17-23) 4. The "real realization" of the woman (Genesis 2:23-25) - "relationship", and how the man is supposed to cover for her. This is Spiritual revelation of truth.  He was connecting.    God had spoken how that she would be Adam's helper, and comforter, ... so that he wouldn't be alone.  Adam had a "realization" of this truth. "She is now bone of my bone,  and flesh of my flesh".  The same DNA. This is a realization ... of church fellowship,  and  how  we should understand it.  We should cover one another like Christ covers for us.  They should be nurtured from out of us.  They are our help.    "Father, that they may  be one,  ... even as we are one",    Jesus prayed. (St. John 17)   "Bear fruit", "glorify" the Father.  (St. John 15:8)   (For this comparison, see also: 1 Peter ch.3, Ephesians 5:6-33) When Eve was tempted by the serpent to eat the judging fruit, it was basically born out of the refusal to believe the "uttered" Word of God ... to her husband. The serpent raised a question about what God had said. (ch.3:1)  Then, he knew that he must create an "opportunity" for their flow of passion, and discredit the "utterance" of God.  She dreamed of vast knowledge, sustenance and wealth, and beauty that would be desirous.  This would give her pleasantness, power, and dominion.  She would be like a god, independent, and powerful.  But, her vision was wrong.  (St. Matthew 6:8-13, 19-33, ch.7:1-6) _____                         Desire Gone Wrong   (Why?) 1. Something has to be introduced into the mind experience to contemplate.  (the introduction of wrong vision  tolerated) 2. The appeal to "decision" has to come in the form of a question; ... otherwise, there would be no need for "decision".     For carnal decision, there must be a "reasonable" justification because of the "knowledge of good and evil".  (the  vacuum, or opportunity) 3. The "uttered" Word of God is discredited.     (even tradition, and Scripture can be used  ... to do this) 4. Reliance upon carnal effort to make a "decision" doesn't work.  When we are dead to "self", ... and alive unto "relationship" with the Spirit of God, (guilt free)  ...  then,  we utilize Kingdom support.             _____ Temptation When Satan tried to disrupt Jesus' destiny, in the wilderness, he tempted Him in three areas.  (St. Matthew 4:1-11)   And every time Jesus answered him, it was with a "present tense" relationship answer.  These areas of temptation always appeal to what motivates us.  For apart from our "passions", there is no response:  for that's what drives us.  (nothing has changed) Satan said to Jesus  ... 1."If" you be the Son of God ?  Turn these stones into bread ?  Jesus answered,  Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every Word that "proceeds" from ... the "mouth of God".   (sustenance) 2. (Holy city. Temple pinnacle)  "If" you be the Son of God, cast yourself down ?   (God will save you?)    Jesus answered, it is written, you shall not  "tempt" the Lord your God.    (Satan appeals to carnal religion)  3. (High mountain, see the glorious kingdoms of earth)      "I will give you all these things ... "if" you will fall down, and worship me ?"    Jesus answered, Be gone Satan, you shall "worship" the Lord your God, and Him only shall you "serve". (Satan's appeal to worldly power)                                        It is so easy for us to get caught up in these wrong desires of life when we are not listening to the  "voice" of God's Spirit.  When Jesus answered Satan about our "reason" for living, ... he was clear in his understanding of God's "voice" of authority, and wisdom, in our lives.   (Read: Deuteronomy ch.8, and St. Luke 8:8,14,15)         The second temptation was even more subtle, because it was religious.  Satan took Jesus to the "height" of religion.  He took him to the "pinnacle" on the roof of the "temple" that was in the "holy city".  (You can't get much more religious than that)   And then, he wanted Jesus to  "prove" one of the promises of God that is found in the scriptures.  And to make matters even worse, it was a scripture about God's "protective love".   (Well, ... don't look too surprised)     We've all heard sermons ... about the promises of God, and how we are supposed to step out in faith, and test them.  And many of us have bought a little box full of these promises, and put it on our kitchen table, so that we could read one every day.  But, do we listen to the "voice" of the Holy Spirit ?   Or, do we just read "promises" ?   (Romans 8:14) Who is the Lord of our religion ? The third temptation was about this world, with all of its power and glory.  This is a lesson on how to get side-tracked, real quick. The splendor of property and buildings.  The power one has with people because "you" are successful.  Worshiping at the feet of Mammon, ... the god of this world.  Having the vision of the glories of this world.  But, how ironical.   (because) We don't have to be independent of God to flourish in this earth.  He created us to be blessed, and to have dominion. When will we repent, and enjoy the relationship that God has for us ?   When will we listen to the Holy Spirit, and do the work of God ?   (Worship and serve) When Jesus presented this "new life" that he knew,  ... the devil left, and the angels came and ministered to him.   (St. Matthew 4:11) _____   Your Source As we tolerate suggestions to our passions, that are not of the Holy Spirit, we not only face the struggle within us, but also the judging condemnation that goes with it.  Thus, the law of sin and death. But, with the coming of vision and Word from the Holy Spirit, and the forgiveness of this gospel,  ... there is peace, life, and opportunity.  The salvation that delivers from the bondage of guilt  is our faith in God's grace.  The salvation that delivers from the bondage of sin and death ... is the Word, and power, from the Spirit. (Romans 7:25, 8:2,13) _____ Paul's Letter ... "I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of Glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom, and revelation,  in the  knowledge of Him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened;  that you may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of His mighty  power, which He wrought in Christ Jesus, when He raised  him from the dead, and  set him at His own right hand in ... the heavenly places.   Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that  which is to come, and has put all things under his feet, and  gave him to be head over all things to the church, which  is his body, the fullness of him that fills all in all."   - Ephesians 1:16-23 When Praying for Others          Just as we have read part of the apostle Paul's letter to the group of believers at Ephesus, we begin to see that the ministry of the Holy Spirit ... is one of "realization".  It is this "realization" that brings faith and strength into our hearts.  Without this, we are left only with the struggle, condemnation, and lack of vision,  ... in our confusing lives.  Look at how Jesus prayed for his disciples in his final hours before leaving them ... to bring forth the church. "For I have given unto them "the words" which You gave me;  and they have received them.  And now, I come to You.  And these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them Your word;  and the world has hated them,  because they are not of the world,  even as I am not of the world.  I pray not that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.  Sanctify them through Your truth.  Your" Word is truth.   (Compare: St. John 14:26) As You have sent me into the world, even so, I have also sent them into the world.   And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth."        - St. John 17:8,13-19 _____ We can't help but remember his teaching  about "source" ... "He that has seen me, has seen the Father:  how do you say then, show us the Father ? Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in me ?  The "words" that I speak unto you, ... I speak not of myself:  but the Father that dwells in me,  ...   it is He that is working." - St. John 14:2-31        _____   Spirit Word  (Gk. rhema) Just do it! (the "word" is near you)                 "The word is near you, ... even in your mouth, and in your heat:  that is the word of "faith" which we preach.  If you will confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and believe in your heart that God has raised him from the dead, you shall be saved.  For with the heart man believes unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture says, whosoever believes on him shall not be ashamed.  For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon Him.  For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call upon Him in whom they have not believed ?   And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard ?   And how shall they hear without a preacher ?   And how shall they preach ... unless they are sent ?   As it is written, how beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! But they have not all obeyed the gospel.  For Isaiah says, Lord, who has believed our report ? So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.  (This "word"  is not scripture quotation,  but rather, "Spirit" word) - Romans 10:8-17 How do you treat the "Word" ? When your desire is to acknowledge God, and be a part of His Kingdom, the Word of the Holy Spirit becomes more important than just a religious opinion. This word of faith becomes the life force of your being, and the direction for your activities.  The fact that it is a "Word of faith" means that it is up to you to make it your own, and to act upon it.    For without "faith",  it is of no use. A "Teaching" by Jesus                 "And when much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spoke by a parable. A sower went out to sow his seed.  And as he sowed, some fell by the wayside; and it was trodden down, and the birds of the air devoured it.  And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture.  And some fell among thorns;  and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it.  And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundred fold.  And when he had said these things, he cried, He that has ears to hear let him hear. (Now the parable is this)         The seed is the "word" of God.  Those by the wayside are those that hear:  then comes the devil, and takes away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.  They on the rock are they, which when they hear, receive the word with joy, and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away.  And that which fell among thorns are they, which when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection.   But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit ... with patience. Take heed therefore how you hear:  for whosoever has, to him shall be given;  and whosoever has not, from him shall be taken ... even that which he seems to have. My mother, and brethren, are these which hear the word of God, and do it."         - St. Luke 8:4-21 See also: James ch.1, 1 John ch.1, Revelation ch.2,3, Galatians 6:16-18               Distracted and "Self-serving"                  "The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God.      God is not in all his thoughts. For the wicked boasts of his heart's desire, and blesses the covetous, whom the Lord abhors.  His ways are always grievous.   Your judgments (God)  are far above out of his sight. As for all his enemies, he puffs at them.  He has said in his heart, I shall not be moved: for I shall never be in adversity." - Psalms 10:3-6                  Not Religion,  but "New Life" I want to remind you, here, that we are not talking about doing things "by the Book", or according to the "traditions" that you may have been taught.  In all of my writings I have directed you to "hear the voice" of God's Spirit. (Read: Galatians, 1 Corinthians ch.2, Romans chs.7,8,  and  St. John chs.14,15,16) This people that hear the direction of God's Spirit, are the "new" people that the prophets foresaw, and that Jesus, and the apostles, preached about.  This blessing is open to "all nations", now.  (Romans chs.10,11, St. Mark 16:15-18,  St. John ch.3,  Galatians ch.3,  Acts chs.2,10) "Behold, the days come, says the Lord, that I will make a new covenant with the House of Israel, and with the house of Judah:  not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt;  ... which My covenant they broke, although I was a husband unto them, says the LORD. But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the House of Israel.  After those days, says the LORD,  I will put My law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts;  and will be their God, and they shall be My people.  (See: St. Matthew 4:4, 1 Peter ch.4)                                       And they shall teach no more every man his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD.   For they shall all know Me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, says the LORD.   For I will forgive their iniquity,  ... and I will remember their sin no more."    (Comp. - Hebrews 8:8-13, and ch.10) - Jeremiah 31:31-34 Here it is "And you has He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in times past you walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now works in the children of disobedience:  among whom also, we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh, and of the mind;  and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, Who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, has quickened us together with Christ, (by grace you are saved):  and has raised us up together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:  that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace you are saved, through faith;  and that not of yourselves:  it is the gift of God:  not of works, lest any man should boast.  For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God has before ordained that we should walk in them. Wherefore remember, that you being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, that at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and   without God in the world:  but now, in Christ Jesus you who sometimes where far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.                                      For he is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of partition between us;  having abolished in his flesh the enmity,  even the law of commandments contained in ordinances;  for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;  and that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:  and came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.  For through him, we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Now therefore, you are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God;  and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself, being the chief cornerstone; In whom all the building, fitly framed together, grows unto a holy temple in the Lord: in whom you also are built together for a habitation of God  ... through the Spirit." - Ephesians ch.2 As the apostle Paul points out in Romans chapters 7 and 8, our battle of the "fleshly passions" needs to submit to the voice of the Holy Spirit. Our quest is not to become more moralistic;  but rather, to consider our passions to be quickened by the Spirit of God, to follow His intents, instead of our own religious efforts. The human race is full of opinions, arguments, strife, and loss.  It will never change.  And, until we can "stop" and hear from the Spirit of God, we won't know the "divine word" that is eternal, and all-powerful. The scriptures that we have in this world, (and hold dear), came from men who did "just that". Somehow, religion has reversed the order. They think that Spiritual inspiration comes from the scriptures, rather than scriptural records coming from Spiritual inspiration. "You" are the light of the world.  (St. Matthew 6:14)	Pgs 101 - 136

Chapter six
	Ignoring Conscience Conscience   Gk. "Sune'desis"   - co-perception The English dictionary explains conscience as the faculty, power, or principle within us, which decides on the rightness, or upon the wrongness, of our own actions;  the sense of right and wrong;  the moral sense. A bad conscience is a reproving conscience.  A good conscience is an approving conscience. This word is used 30 times in the New Testament Scriptures, and not at all in the Old Testament Scriptures, where it was probably referred to as the "heart" of man. As far back as the garden story of Adam and Eve, we see how a "condemned conscience" makes people hide from God. When we understand that the relationship that a person has with God is rooted in their conscience;  then, it is surprising that we don't hear more preaching about this area of our lives. When we are seeking to bring people to God, it is this area of the individual's life that is being ministered to.  And, when we are having fellowship with other Christians, it is their conscience that must be protected.  (compare: Hebrews 9:11-14,  Romans ch.14) "For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things.  Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then we have confidence toward God.  And whatsoever we ask, we receive of Him, because we keep His commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in His sight.  And this is His commandment, that we should believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as He gave us commandment.  And he that keeps His commandments dwells in Him, and He in him.  And hereby we know that He abides in us, by the Spirit which He has given us." - 1 John 3:20-24                                                                           There are four types of  "conscience" spoken of in the scriptures of  ... the New Testament.                  1. Carnal Conscience                  2. Weak Conscience                  3. Good Conscience                  4. Pure Conscience 1. Carnal Conscience   (judging) This type of conscience is the one that is directed out of what the person has been taught.  It's the accepted morality of any particular group, and doesn't need to have a "spiritual" leading, or understanding.  The end result of this conscience is death, for it seeks only to "judge".  It is the bondage of humanity that finds its source in the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil.  It is very legalistic, and seldom seeks to forgive, but rather alienates. The "religious people" of the day brought a woman to Jesus. "Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act.          So, when they continued asking him, he lifted himself up, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone at her.  And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. When Jesus lifted himself up, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are your accusers ?   Has no man condemned you ?   She said, No man, Lord.   And Jesus said unto her,  Neither do I condemn you:  go and sin no more. Then Jesus spoke again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world:  he that follows me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life."   (read: St. John 8:1-19)           This account in John chapter eight shows the continuous fear, and struggle of religion, ... that only knows how to strive, judge, and destroy.  The truth that Jesus is trying to share with them, is that it is not our place to have to judge; but rather to speak what we hear from the Father, for His reconciling Spirit knows all from beginning to end.  (St. John 8:15,16,26) In the book of Acts (ch.23), once again we see the blindness of these religious moralists.  They were religious, but had nothing to offer except "judgment".  Paul, the apostle, defending himself against them, told them that he had lived in all good conscience before God.  The priest told someone to "slap him on the mouth".  The anguish that these selfish religion-mongers carried in their sorry consciences could only blame, for they had experienced no deliverance themselves. In the next chapter (ch.24), Paul once again speaks: this time to a Roman governor.  And once again he says, I exercise always to have a conscience void of offence toward God and man.  And, once again, he was left in prison because there was no salvation, nor spirit of grace, that flowed from these carnal moralists. In Romans chapter two, Paul says, You are inexcusable, you that judge:  because when you judge, you bring condemnation to yourself.  And because of the hardness of your unrepentant heart, you store up wrath against yourself, even to the coming of God's judgment. So, in review, we don't see a very good result coming out of the carnal conscience.  In the first story, about the woman, the men  "went out" gaining nothing.  In the second story, in the book of Acts, Paul got assaulted, and then left in prison.  Man's "carnal conscience" ... can only judge.  (See also:  Romans 9:1-3  and  Romans 13:4-7) 2. Weak Conscience   (so fearful) This type of conscience, also, is the one that is directed out of what the person has been taught.  It's the accepted morality of any particular group, and doesn't need to have a "spiritual" leading, or understanding.  The end result of this conscience is struggle, condemnation, and alienation, ... for it still seeks to "judge".  It is the bondage of humanity that finds its source in the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil.  It is very legalistic, and seldom seeks to forgive, but rather alienates.  However, when this conscience is referred to by the apostle, he does give credit to the fact that the person is "trying to serve God".  They are not rooting their faith only in religious, or social, acts, but do have somewhat of a relationship with the living God. In 1 Corinthians chapter eight, the apostle talks about a people that are afraid to eat certain food that has been offered up to idols; and they are afraid to participate in something that is so against their beliefs. While there is another group, that knows that God "owns everything", and the idol is just the foolishness of man's own imagination.  They eat that meat with thankfulness, all the while blessing God. Paul goes on to explain that we should be mindful to not offend the weak conscience of our brother that Christ died for, even though we may think that their fear is ridiculous.  In chapter nine, he explains that this fellowship is not about how we feel, but rather, about serving others so that they might see their liberty in Christ's gospel.     It's a stewardship, and ministry.  (vs.17) In chapter ten, Paul explains that we should not use this liberty as an excuse to fulfill the lusts of the flesh (vs.1-23),  but rather, we should consider how the glory of God will be served in this earth to bring  salvation to the many folks still struggling. (vs.24-33)   Don't arouse the "weak conscience" ... to condemnation.  (vs. 23-29) Now, in chapter eleven, Paul brings to light some of the issues that are causing differences amongst the group of believers in the church at Corinth. After having addressed the possibility of offending the weak conscience of some of the folks, he now prepares them for "fellowship and growth", rather than offence and division.  He is teaching these folks that we are finished with promoting ourselves, and striving.  When we come together to fellowship, we need to learn to "discern" the Lord's body of believers, and minister to one another in love, and (you guessed it) Spirit.  This leads us into chapter twelve, where he says, "brethren, concerning  Spiritual gifts, ... I would  not  have you ignorant". In chapter thirteen, love is addressed.  In chapter fourteen, he says to follow after love, and desire "Spiritual gifts", but rather,  ... that you may "prophesy".  Chapter fifteen summarizes all of this to "being steadfast; ... always abounding in the work of the Lord". Isn't it amazing how this section of Scripture would teach us to look at the foundation of our ministry, and seek to make room for those that are weaker (in conscience),  so that the body of Christ might be  "nurtured Spiritually",  ... and therefore glorify God. "Therefore, seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;  but have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty,  not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully;  but by manifestation of the truth, commending ourselves to every man's "conscience" in the  sight of God.   (in the "sight of God"   - using Spiritual discernment) If our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:  in whom the god of this world has blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of this glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them."                                    - 2 Corinthians 4:1-4 See also:  2 Corinthians ch.1   and    ch.5:9-21          3. Good Conscience   (salvation) Now, we move from co-perception with man, to agreement with God's Spirit.  Out of a "good conscience" we fellowship, and minister.  This is the "agathos" (Gk)  conscience,  which is the "well doing" conscience that is under the influence of the Holy Spirit,  and charity (love).  It's the "born again" conscience that serves, and fulfills the purposes of God with the people.  Its message is, "stay encouraged in God, and in your faith". The apostle Paul wrote to his young helper, Timothy,   ... "Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions rather than Godly edifying which is in faith. Now the fulfillment of the commandment is charity (love) out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:  from which  some having swerved, have turned aside unto vain jangling;  desiring to be teachers of the law;  understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm. This charge I commit unto you, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on you;  ... that by them you might war a good warfare, holding faith, and  ... a good conscience;  which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck.     I will therefore, that men pray everywhere lifting up holy hands without wrath and doubting." - 1 Timothy 1:4-7,19,  ch.2:8        Faith  ... In the first chapter of Paul's letter to Timothy, "faith" is referred to continuously.  For without "faith", it is impossible to please God. (Hebrews ch.11, see vs.6)   This "good conscience" is the conscience of serving God ... in the Spirit.  Those that revert to teaching tradition, minister from the first two consciences; all the while judging.  Emptiness, bondage, and condemnation, are the result,  ...  rather than edification. Those that are "born again" in their conscience  (by the Spirit of God),  ... draw out of the prophetic word, holding faith, and a good conscience.  (vs.18,19)             The area of conscience is so important, because it is the area of "perception".  It is the area of our lives that decides how we look at things. If our conscience is under condemnation we become discouraged, and minister guilt to others, as well. If it is under the "perception" of the Holy Spirit, then in faith, we talk about, and minister, accordingly. It is important to realize that a "good conscience" is obedient to the Holy Spirit.  It is not a careless conscience, nor is it fearful. Satan's intention is to condemn, and discourage:  while God's salvation forgives, and reconciles.  One releases death, while the other appropriates "life" in God's Spirit.  Salvation begins here. "For God  so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that  whosoever believes in him should not perish,  but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world;  but that the world through him might be saved.   He that believes on him is not condemned:  but he that believes not is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation.   Light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.  For every one that does evil hates the light, neither comes to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.  But he that does truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest,  that they are wrought in God." - St. John 3:16-21 "Marvel not that I said unto you, you must be born again.  For that which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. (Spiritual)"                                           - St. John 3:3-8                          This is our chance to enter in, and walk in the "light".  God could have chosen any stage to show forth His salvation upon; but He chose this world.  ... "For God so loved the world." Having realized that the "good conscience" is based upon the perception of the Holy Spirit, we now face the real question of how to continuously walk in it. Paul councils Timothy (1 Timothy 4:2)  ... that some people, even once they know better, live their lives listening to "other voices".  They may pretend to be doing the right thing, but they are lying to themselves (and others)  about what God is saying to them. The good conscience is an honest conscience.  (1 Timothy 1:4-7,19) "But that on the good ground are they,  which in an honest and good heart,  having heard the word, keep it;  and bring forth fruit with patience."    (St. Luke 8:5-18 - read Jesus' teaching)      The good conscience not only holds to faith, and honesty, but also to the forgiveness, and confidence, that we have in this message of Christ. Don't let religion lie to you.  Stay free in Christ, to obey the Holy Spirit.  (Read: Romans ch.8   ... esp. vs.14,15) "How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God,  purge your conscience from dead works  ... to serve the living God ?"                                          - Hebrews 9:14            Our minds continuously have to be "renewed", so that we live our lives with the "co-perception" of the Holy Spirit. This doesn't come naturally.  We need to always "slow down", and listen to the intention of the Holy Spirit, and then obediently,  and in faith, do it. (2 Corinthians 4:16, Ephesians 4:23, Colossians 3:10, Titus 3:5) "And be not conformed to this world; but be transformed by renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God is."     (Romans 12:2) 4. Pure Conscience  (being) This conscience  ... is not so much the description of our active faith in service, but rather the description of the character of our conscience. A "pure conscience" is a conscience that is clean.  One that is free from all bondage, and available to be used of God to bring forth fruit.  This is the conscience that explores the Sonship of God, and the inheritance of the saints.  (1 Timothy 3:9) When Jesus spoke to his disciples in St. John 15:1-5, about being clean, and being purged to even "bear more fruit",  he was speaking of the "katharos" (Gk)  experience, and  state of being. (See: 2 Corinthians 5:15-21,  St. John chs.14-16,  1 John chs.1-5,  1 Corinthians ch.2) This type of person sees no need to judge after the flesh, or out of what they think they see.  Rather, their faith is waiting upon the word of the Holy Spirit to direct them in what they do. They have no carnal judgment in their conscience.  They are abiding in the vine, with expectancy to bear fruit unto the glory of the Father. "Herein is my Father glorified, that you bear much fruit;  so shall you be my disciples."    - St. John 15:8 Jesus said,   ... "The words that I speak unto you, I speak not of myself:  but the Father that dwells in me, He does the works.  Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me:  or else believe me for the very works' sake. Verily, Verily, I say unto you, he that believes on me, the works that I do shall he do also;  and greater works than these shall he do;  because I go unto my Father. And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever;  even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it sees Him not, neither knows Him. But you know Him, for He dwells with you, and shall be in you.  And (vs.26)  He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you."                          - St. John 14:10-12,16,17,26                "Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abides alone:  but if it die, it brings forth much fruit.  He that loves his life shall lose it; and he that regards not his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.  If any man serve me, let him follow me;  and where I am, there shall also my servant be.  If any man serve me, him will my Father honor."                                    - St. John 12:24-26 ___ "Paul, having passed through the upper coasts, came to Ephesus.  And finding certain disciples, he said unto them, have you received the Holy Ghost since you believed ?   And they said unto him, we have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.  And he said unto them, unto what then, were you baptized ?   And they said, unto John's baptism.   Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him; ... that is on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.    And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them;  and they spoke with tongues, and prophesied."                                               - Acts 19:1-6 Something that we need to realize, ... is that believers in this era were filled with the Holy Ghost, and were taught to live out of this fountain of life.  (Joel 2:28-32, Acts 2:14-21, St. John 7:37-39, Romans 8:14) In Paul's first letter to Timothy (ch.4), he speaks of a people who depart from the faith, justifying themselves out of lifestyle, and works.  (carnal conscience)    In verse six, he speaks about being "nourished up"  in words of faith, and good teaching.   Then in verse 14 and 15, he tells Timothy,  "neglect not the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the elders. Meditate upon these things.  Give yourself wholly to them.  Continue in them, and you will save yourself, and those that hear you."  (this is the Gospel)                                             In his second letter to Timothy, he says, "I serve God with a pure conscience" (ch.1:3).  Then, in (vs.5) "unfeigned faith", ... (vs.6) "stir up the gift", ... (vs.7) "no fear", ... (vs.9) "not according to our works, but according to His purpose and grace",  ... (vs.13) "faith and love", ... (vs.14) "Holy Ghost", ... (ch.2:1) "strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus", ... (vs.24) "not striving", ... (vs.25,26) "opposing themselves, snare of the devil", ...   (ch.3:5) "form of godliness,  but denying the power". The "pure conscience" abides in the vine, and rests in the grace and confidence of its relationship with the Holy Ghost. It has no life of its own, only the destiny, blessings, and purposes of God. It is "born again" by the Spirit of God, and is moved by the Spirit. Ironically, the greatest threat to this "state of being" throughout scripture ... was traditional religion.  (see the scriptures referred to) In our day, the "futuristic gospel" that has borrowed its carnal foundation from the traditional church, has done much to keep the message of this Gospel of light from those that are turning to God. May God help us all to shake the bondages of this false gospel;  and in faith, find the "new birth", and the "Spiritual ministry" that He has ordained for us. Paul wrote to another young leader, Titus,   ... "This witness is true.  Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;  not giving heed to (religious) fables,  and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. Unto the pure, all things are pure:  but unto them that are defiled, and unbelieving, nothing is pure:  but even their mind and conscience is defiled.   They profess that they know God;  but in works they deny Him, being abominable, and disobedient:  and unto every good work ... reprobate."                                         - Titus 1:13-16                                                                If you are alive, your actions or lack of actions are born out of your conscience.  The very guilty, and discouraged, are led around by other people's consciences. The question is,  ... which conscience ...  are you living out of ? The Gospel of Light is the message that brings about salvation in your life.  Faith in this Christ Word, will determine your success and growth in this world, ... and that to come. Most of us that have had our roots in traditional "futuristic gospel" have rendered our terminology useless, because of unbelief. We say, "the Spirit of God dwells in our brothers, and sisters", but we don't believe it.  Listen to how we talk about them:  and look at what we "expect" from them.  (little, or nothing, Spiritual) We refer to the Word of God.  But if someone prophesies, we don't believe "that" is the word of God, because we have a book that has been put together called, the Bible, (that we have borrowed from the traditional church), and we don't believe that God speaks to our generations, today.  (that His prophecies might be fulfilled)   We just smile, and religiously pat them on the back, and say, "God Bless You".  (And we don't even know what we are saying, when we say that part)      Remember,  ...  it was prophesied by the prophets of old that there would be a "people" raised up that would be a "light" to the world.  And, they would be filled with God's Spirit;  and His word would be in their hearts, and in their mouths.  But, I have yet to find a prophecy about a "book" that would be compiled; and that would be the witness to the dark world. We say, "I am totally forgiven of my sins".  Just as much as Jesus, Peter, Paul, and Abraham.   (Do you believe it?) "I give my life to you, O LORD".  (Do you?)                          The "futuristic gospel" talks about everything except the present tense. The people of the futuristic gospel don't have much of a relationship with God.  If you were to ask them anything about what God is "doing or saying", they would tell you almost anything, ... because they don't know.  They are not "prophetic" in nature.  They are carnal in nature.  They have no understandable relationship with the Spirit of God.   If you ask them about the Bible, they can quote you Bible verses.   Ask them about their opinion, they will tell you about the future.   Thus, the "futuristic gospel". If you were to ask them about their testimony, they will tell you about a lifestyle. If you ask them about what God is saying, or doing, they will tell you about what their group, or church, is doing.  Do they know God ?   They say they do.  Do they know God ?   No.    There is a "people" We are in the time of "fulfillment" of the prophets.  (scriptures)     There is a people. We need to ask ourselves, "What did the prophets say" ?   "What did Jesus say" ?   What were his final lessons to the disciples, that are recorded in St. John chs.14,15,16 ?    What is the witness of the record of the gospel ?   (St. Luke, Acts, Revelation) - the prophets (said)  - a people with "word"  in their spirit - Jesus (said)  - a people with the "abiding presence" of the Spirit of truth. - early apostles (said)   - the  "word"  of God is near you, even in your heart, ... and in your mouth. ____ There is a people, in the earth today, that know the presence of the Spirit of God, and that respect the Word of His Spirit.  If they couldn't "hear the voice of their God", ... they would be lost;  for that is the only salvation that they know.    They are people of "light".                   So now In Hebrews 9:9-14, we see that religion won't renew the part of us that needs to be "born again". (the conscience)   We also see that Christ exercised his ministry "through the eternal Spirit".  (vs.14) Hebrews ch.10, begins with the carnal conscience; but then, speaks to us about "doing the will" of God with the intent of God written in the heart, and mind  (vs.15-25),  and with the "full assurance" of faith.  (the "good conscience") Hebrews ch.13, discusses the life of the "good conscience", as we boldly become perfect "in every good work" ... doing the will ... of the Holy Spirit. In 1 Peter ch.2, Peter says to "lay aside" the negative energy of the carnal conscience, and by faith show forth the marvelous light of the presence of God.  You have returned unto the Shepherd, and Bishop, of your soul. (led by the "Spirit" - Romans 8:14) Then, in 1 Peter ch.3,  he encourages us to work out of a "good conscience", even if we suffer for it a little bit;  so that our works may be well spoken of before God.   (the "light") The "conscience" leads to life, or to condemnation.  This is the area of the individual that Satan targets.  A condemned conscience will hide from the "light of God";  while a conscience of faith ... will come to the light.   (Genesis 3:7,8,  St. John 3:17-21) We are not ministers to show people that they have broken the law,  but rather, ministers of grace, light, faith, and life. (1 Peter 2:12) ____ "The word is near you, even in your mouth, and in your heart:  that is, the "word of faith" which we preach."   (rhema "word" of the Spirit) - Romans 10:8	Pgs 137 - 164

Chapter seven
	Ignoring the Ministries   The Foundation Some people say that the Bible is the foundation of the Church. "Our church is a  Bible-based church." Let's have a look at this, and see ... if it be so.  How are we going to find help ? Well, if we look at the claims of the Scriptures, that we have, the one that stands out immediately is the apostle Paul's comment to Timothy. "And from a child you have known the holy scriptures, which are able to make you wise unto salvation, through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by "inspiration of God", and is profitable for doctrine (teaching), for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God ... may be perfect,  furnished unto all good works." - 2 Timothy 3:15-17 All Scripture is given by "inspiration of God", and is profitable for teaching, correction, and instruction, and is able to make you wise unto "salvation".  (I might add, that without "inspiration of God",  they are not profitable) These scriptures clearly agree that the Spirit of God speaks to man; and that God expects "that relationship".  It was stated that God would pour out His Spirit upon humanity, and they would prophesy, and see visions, and "know" God, and have relationship with Him. (Joel ch.2, Jeremiah 31:31-34, Isaiah, etc.) But, the emphasis is not upon the Scriptures; it is upon the "inspiration of God".  If it is not "God speaking", then it is not eternal Word of God. Now for some, they are going to have a hard time with this because they cannot picture "God speaking" apart from the pages of The Bible, or some other religious Book.   To them, the "Word of God" is in  ... written form. When Isaiah spoke, and wrote, saying that he was sent of God, this would be "unacceptable".   This would not be the "Word of God". When David wrote his songs, as he spent time in the presence of God, this would not be the "Word of God".  How do we judge whether or not a writing is inspired ?   How do we judge prophecy ?   (God's Spiritual ... intent) Every writer that we refer to in the Bible had a "ministry of revelation".   (the inspiration of God.    Spiritual "relationship") How is it, that we don't believe in this "presence" anymore ?   The Gospel teaches the opposite.  Who has "robbed" us ? The Scriptures Jesus quoted the Scriptures.  The apostles quoted the Scriptures. The Bereans searched the Scriptures to see whether or not what the apostles were saying was so.  What were they all looking for ?    "Fulfillment of prophecy". If the apostles, and Jesus, took the Old Testament Scriptures as the "final" Word of God, then we would be worshiping at a tabernacle made out of skins. During the first 400 years of the early Christian church, there were lots of letters, and books, circulating to build and establish the church.  (Many we don't have.  eg. Laodicean epistle - Colossians 4:16,  the letters to the Gentiles - Acts 15:22-32,  St. John 21:25,   and  many more  - Muratorian Canon) How Do We Judge Prophecy ? Now, someone says, "I will judge it by the yardstick of the Bible".  Or, someone else  says, "I will judge it  by the  plumb-line of the Scriptures".   It all sounds good, but most people that are saying that, just don't know the mind of Christ;  nor the voice of the Holy Spirit. The early church, for the first 400 years, didn't have what we know of as The Bible. (that wasn't put together until 397 A.D.)    But from the writings that we do have, we do see how they recognized, and accepted, the "Word of God's Spirit". First of all, lets clear up the question of what the foundation of the church is.  (read: Ephesians 2:13-22) "But now in Christ Jesus, you who are sometimes far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.        For he is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of partition between us;  having abolished in his flesh the enmity,  (even the law of commandments contained in ordinances);  for to make in himself of two  ... "one new man",  so making peace;  that he might reconcile both  (Jew and Gentile)  unto God in "one body"  (the church)  by the cross, having slain that enmity thereby:  and came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. For through him we both have access ... by one Spirit unto the Father.  Now therefore, you are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God;  And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief cornerstone;  in whom all the building fitly framed together grows ... unto the holy temple in the Lord:  in whom you also are built together for a habitation of God through ... the Spirit." Which apostles, and prophets ?   Who are they ?   (the "New Testament" apostles and prophets from then, ... to this day.       Let's continue) "How that by "revelation" He made known unto me the mystery;  which in  other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now "revealed" unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit To the intent, that now ... unto the principalities, and powers, in heavenly places, "might be known by the church"  the manifold wisdom of God.    (Spiritual insight, and revelation) That He would grant unto you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;  that Christ my dwell in your hearts  by faith;  that you, being rooted and grounded in love, ... may be able to comprehend  with all saints  what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;  and to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge, that you might be filled with  ... all the fullness of God. Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, ... "according to the power that works in us", unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages,  world without end.   Amen."                                 - Ephesians 3:3,5,10,16-21 (also:  Ephesians 4:11-13)      We are not a "Bible based" church, in the sense that we decide upon who we fellowship with, and what direction we should take in our decisions, ... by looking up Bible verses.   (Romans 8:14) The Holy Spirit, through our own witness of spirit, and the witness of the other Spiritual ministries in the body, ... speaks to us, to direct and develop us, ... in order to build up the "habitation" of God ... through the Spirit.  (not carnal. - Ephesians 2:20-22, ch.4:11-18) A "Bible based" church is a "legalistic" church, taking the same approach as did the Pharisees, with their Scriptures and traditions. This approach came out of the "traditional" type churches.  And, because most of the churches that you see,  ... come from organizations that have sought to become "credible", and accepted in our societies, ... they like this approach. Most of what you see, is a split off from a traditional type church, such as the Roman Catholic church, Church of England, etc. The Bible, that we wave around, calling it "the Word of God", was assembled by the Roman Catholic Church, and decided upon at a Council in Carthage in 397 A.D.  Later, when the Church of England was thriving, it accepted its own version of what would be  ... acceptable Scripture. It has been accepted throughout history that what we do have of the writings are authentic.  The apostle Paul wrote to Timothy that these Scriptures are inspired of God's Spirit, and that they will help you to see, and develop faith for your own life.  Maybe it's time that we broke with tradition, and believed what they actually tell us ...  that the Gospel is. Believe me, when I tell you this.  Once you have learned to hear the Spirit of God in your life, and once you have discovered fellowship with others that do, ... you will never want to go back to the carnal form and tradition of religion. Big, fancy temples have always been around.  Religion and traditions have been around since the time of Cain and Abel, and Adam and Eve.  The songs, the robes, the pious looks, the prayers, and the books, are not new.  Lost souls, without a sense of the "presence" and power of God have always been around. The Gospel of Christ is the call to be "reconciled" to God, ... have your sins forgiven, be filled with the Holy Spirit, and know, and do ... the will of God. When we meet for fellowship, we need to respect the developing of the individual ministries that are noted in Scripture. (1 Corinthians ch.12, Ephesians ch.4) These ministries that I am referring to, are not the "church jobs" that we relate to, such as welcoming people, making coffee, singing, and belonging to committees.  If this is all that we have to offer, then we have a carnal, tradition based, church.  We need to ask ourselves if these jobs could be done by a non-believer.  How long will we ignore the Spirit of God in the church ? Many times, when we are praying for "special needs", the answer is already present amongst us in the "Word of the Spirit".  We don't stop.  We just go through the motions.  We call that faith, when it should be just called ignorance, and rebellion. ____     Where do we start ?   How will this change come about in our area ? Well, the fact that you are reading this book puts you in a position of deciding "what you are going to do about it".  You may not be able to change things yourself, but you can put this book into the hands of people that can help change things.  And then, you can do the necessary follow-up ... to insure that the message does take hold. Because most of these gifts are imparted through ministry, and faith, it would do well to quickly "seek out" ministries that are not only functioning in these gifts, but are able to impart, and instruct, in the things of the Spirit. The time is now.  Make this word your own, and watch what God will do.  (St. Mark 4:14-20) Paul did ! "Now Paul, having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, ... he said unto them,  Have you received the Holy Ghost since you believed ?   And they said unto him, we have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then, were you baptized ?   And they said, Unto John's baptism.  Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him who should come after him;  that is, on Christ Jesus.  When they heard this they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them;  and they spoke with tongues, and prophesied.  (there were about twelve men) And he went into the synagogue, and spoke boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things ...concerning the Kingdom of God." - Acts 19:1-8 Paul did it.    He  went into groups of  "so called" believers, and explained the gospel to them.  He laid hands upon them, and introduced them to the Spirit of God.  They became God's "Spirit ministry" based ... churches.  This is the Christ anointing.  That is why Paul could also say that our foundation  is  Christ. In the first three chapters of 1 Corinthians, Paul explains how the church, and ministry, work.  We are a Spirit based individual, in a ministry based church.  (1 Corinthians 3:11, ch.4:20, chs.12,14,  Romans chs.8,12) "Let two or three prophets speak, and let the other judge."               - 1 Corinthians 14:29 The question of how we judge what is of the Spirit of God can now be addressed. "We compare Spiritual with Spiritual"  (1 Corinthians 2:9-16) Although we become comfortable with the voice of the Holy Spirit, it has most times been a general consensus that a matter be established by two, or three, witnesses. (See:  St. Matthew 18:19,20, 1 Timothy 5:19, 1 Corinthians 2:9-16, ch.3:9,  2 Corinthians 13:1,  Philippians 1:9-11,  Acts 15:28, ch.16:4-15,   St. John 5:30,  ch.8:15-17,  2 John 5:7,8) It should be noted that we are talking about Spiritually minded people, that know the ministry of the Holy Spirit: people that will not council out of a carnal mind.  (1 Peter 4:10,11,  2 Corinthians 3:3-6,  ch.4:1,2) *Note:  it would be good ... to familiarize yourself with these Scriptures. _____ A New Perspective Do we have to disrespect the Bible to respect the ministries of the Body of Christ ?   Absolutely not.  (but, we do need a new perspective) When Isaiah wrote his prophetic message, and preached it to the people, he was a "ministry" in operation. When the apostle John was inspired to write the Revelation and distribute it to the churches throughout Asia, it was a ministry in operation. When the apostle Paul wrote a letter to the church at Corinth, it was a "ministry" in operation. None of these "ministries" ... were writing so that they could get their book into the committee's Bible.  In fact, there is nowhere in any of these "ministry" writings that would indicate that there would be a "canon of scriptures" called the Bible.  The writings always refer to a "people" that would be anointed with the Spirit of God, and in some places, the "writings" that these ministries produced. Our disrespect has robbed us.  (Jeremiah 2:11-26) After following this carnal tradition for years, we have effectively removed the respect for the importance of "Spiritual ministry".  Yes, we talk about it, but our respect for ancient ministry, tradition, and Bible, far surpasses that of the respect that we have for the individual ministries of our time. We say the former is "sure".  But for some reason, the ministries of our time can't be trusted.  Where do you suppose this miserable "lie" came from ? Why is it, that in remarks from Jesus (St. Matthew 5:12, ch.23:13-38),  Stephen (Acts 7:51,52), and the apostle John (Revelation 16:6, 18:24),  ... that it is always the prophets that get targeted ?   Why is it, that the "testimony of Jesus ... is the Spirit of prophecy" ? (1 Corinthians 1:4-7, 2 Corinthians 1:12, Revelation 1:2,9, ch.12:11,17, ch.19:10-13,  and  St. John 1:1-5,14) It is because the "life" of the church is the Spirit of God, with His flowing Word. (St. Matthew 4:4,  Revelation 3:20-22,  Romans 8:14) "You are the children of light, and the children of the day.  We are not of the night, nor of darkness. Rejoice evermore.  Pray without ceasing.  In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit.  Despise not prophesying. Prove all things:  hold fast ...  that which is good." - 1 Thessalonians 5:5,16-21 "See that you refuse not Him that speaks.  For if they escaped not, who refused Him that spoke on earth, much more shall we not escape, if we turn away from Him that speaks from Heaven. Whose voice then shook the earth:  but now, He has promised, saying, Yet once more I will shake not the earth only, but also heaven.  And this word, yet once more, signifies the removing of those things that are shaken, (things that are made), that those things which cannot be shaken ... may remain. Wherefore, we receiving a Kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and Godly fear: for our God is a consuming fire." - Hebrews 12:25-29 "Wherefore, I put you in remembrance, that you stir up the gift of God, which is in you by the putting on of my hands.  For God has not given us the spirit of fear;  but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."        - 2 Timothy 1:6,7 _____                           Spiritual Gifts and Ministries  Peter ... "And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: and on My servants, and on My handmaidens, I will pour out in those days of My Spirit; and they shall prophesy."    (quoting from Joel's prophecy) - Acts 2:17,18 Paul ... "Now, concerning Spiritual Gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.  There are diversities of administrations, but the same Lord.  There are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which works all in all.  But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man  to profit withal. For to one, is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom;  to another, the word of knowledge by the same Spirit.  To another, faith by the same Spirit;  to another, the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;  to another, the working of miracles;  to another, prophecy;  to another, ... discerning of spirits;  to another, divers kinds of tongues;  to another, the interpretation of tongues:  but, all these work by the same Spirit, dividing to every man as He will.  For as the body is one, ... and has many members, and all the members of that one body (being many) are one;  so also is Christ. For by one Spirit, we are all baptized into one body, and have all been made to drink into one Spirit.  For the body is not one member, but many. And God has set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles,  ... then gifts of healings, helps, governments, and diversities of tongues"                - 1 Corinthians 12:1,4-14,28 * See also:  1 Corinthians ch.14,  Ephesians ch.4,  1 Peter ch.4, Romans ch.12 Ministry  (are you ready?) "And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee;  and he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read.  And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Isaiah.   And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written,   ...  The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He has anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor.  He has sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the ... acceptable year of the Lord. And he closed the book, and gave it again to the minister, and sat down.  And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened upon him. And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears."      - St. Luke 4:14-21 This is an interesting section of scripture, because we see so much going on in the life of Jesus that is helpful to us to explain the realities of this "Christ anointing". He is full of the Holy Ghost, ... he is by himself in the wilderness, Satan is throwing tests at him, (even using scripture), ... but there is something about Jesus ... that recognizes truth from error.  It's evident that he is knowledgeable in the scriptures, but there is more to this.  He is answering out of the Spirit of Truth. (Comp: St. John 14:26, ch.16:13,  Ephesians 6:10-17.  The "word" referenced in all of  Ephesians is from  the Gk. "rhema" Spirit Word, ... the prophetic "word") Anyone can quote scripture (including Satan), but the "authoritative word" comes from out of the Spirit of God.  (St. John 14:10) Then, we see him "walking in the authority" of his ministry. He knows what his anointing, and ministry is. This is the "Christ anointing" that we are to realize, and walk in.  (It's Spiritual) Paul's instruction ...    "Follow after charity, and desire Spiritual gifts;  but rather, that you may prophesy.  He that prophesies, speaks unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.    He that prophesies, edifies the church." - 1 Corinthians 14:1-4   As we have noted, the testimony of the Christ anointing is the Spirit of prophecy. "Everything" proceeds from "Spirit Word". (St. John 1:1-4, Revelation 19:10)    Even so, we still have those that would contest this, warning that there have been false prophets. Those folks need to understand that before any prophet of God, there have always been false prophets:  and there will be again.  But, you can't hide behind this, you must come to the light.  (St. John 3:19-21) There is no true ministry apart from the Spirit of God.  For what ever is born of the flesh is flesh, and whatsoever is born of the Spirit is spiritual.  You must be born again. (St. John 3:1-8) There is a connection between "words" and "works"; and those words are resident within us in the Spirit.  They are not found in a scripture writing, ritual, or tradition.  (St. John 14:10, Galatians 2:20) ____   Some additional Scriptures about Tradition Frowned upon, when it obstructs Spirituality -  St. Matthew 15:2-6, St. Mark 7:3-13, 1 Peter 1:18-25, ch.2:25,     Colossians ch.2,3 Upheld for "social reasons" - 2 Thessalonians 2:15,   ch.3:6,7   The Local Church  (Prophetic in nature) Our local fellowship group, or what we call "church", is made up of several components that help to steer ... the rest of the group. I'm not going to talk about committees, because those are a natural part of the group's function ... as a result of these other ministries.  I want to talk about the components that decide the characteristic ... of the Church.     The elders, and the deacons. The Elders and Deacons The elders, above all, meet together with the mind of the LORD, about church destiny. (Not tolerating that old thief, "carnality") They honor God, and honor the Spirit of God, and will not move ... apart from Him.    (Spirit of prophecy - Revelation 19:10) We need to stop choosing "elders" out of carnal reasonings.  Some of the elders today, ... need to be "born again".  They are not elders.  They are influences, but not good ones.  Elders should be rooted in the purpose of the Spirit's intent. They effect the whole group, and create the fountain of output, and direction, for all the ministries; and ultimately effect the harvest in the community and elsewhere. These are developing ministries ... that may even reach out to "establish" other churches.  They are Elders. (See: 1 Peter ch.5, Hebrews 11:1,2,  James 5:14, and  Acts ch.15)   Deacons, are they who help run the fellowship.  They are elders in training. Because they are the ones who mingle, and serve, in the fellowship, they also set the trend of the fellowship.  Respect, and honor, for the presence of the Holy Spirit is a must.  They reach many fellowship people that the elders can't.  (Acts ch.6) ______ This Chapter also describes the difference between the "Spiritual fellowship" of the early church, and the "traditions of fellowship" that we are used to seeing. and more ...	Pgs 165 - 218

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