Mobility Life

Moving On

2009-09-26T23:17:00.002-05:00

I will no longer be posting here. You can view all my recent posts at http://palmerfamily.org. God bless you all.

God Help Me!

2009-09-01T22:57:00.001-05:00

Save me! Deliver me from myself! I am in your hands. I am wait for your mercy.

Windows Live Writer

2009-08-23T07:56:00.001-05:00

I have been using Windows 7 RTM for about three days now. The difference between this and all previous versions of Windows is astounding. I was looking for the Photo Gallery that was featured in Vista but could not find it. I found out that MS opted to include it in Windows 7. So I had to download it (free) if I wanted it. It comes with the “Windows Live Essentials.” Included in it is Windows Live Writer, an application that connects to the blogging site of your choice to allow you to manage it. In fact this post comes to you via that application. I believe it will work on XP SP2 and above for anyone interested in getting it. Anyway that’s it. Getting ready to fellowship with the saints, in the presence of the Lord. Till next time.

Operating In The Kingdom

2009-08-22T21:12:00.001-05:00

While it is true that the kingdom of God is can be understood in a millenial aspect, it is also true that it can be understood to encompass God's entire economy; his way of operation. In terms of the operation of God in the affairs of his people, our responsibility is to listen and obey. God certainly has demonstrated this to me numerous times; most recently in the last few weeks. I have been expecting God to do something very simple, within his power, and within my right to have. He did do it, but completely not the way I was expecting. He did tell me that he was going to do it the way that he did, but I dismissed it as my own thoughts. I then got a message from someone saying the same thing, again I dismissed it. Finally, I got another message from someone else, completely unrelated to the other, saying the same thing! Even then I was still in denial that this is what God was going to do. I met with a friend yesterday and we were talking about what it means to operate in the kingdom: how to live the kingdom life now. During that conversation God reminded me of the three events. I was floored when I realized that I had been purposely ignoring the very power of God by trying to work my circumstances out myself. My friend, after I gave the testimony of God's operation in my life, was nearly in tears at how God was moving. And to think I was ignoring it. At this time looking back, I see myself as having been very selfish. I need to remember God has the right to dissapoint my way of thinking anytime to fulfill his purposes in the earth.

God Forknew Us

2009-08-15T11:00:00.002-05:00

God Foreknew Us

For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Rom 8:29

Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied. 1Pet 1:2

In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: (Eph 1:11)

FOREKNOW, v.t [See Know.] To have previous knowledge of; Webster’s 1828

Foreknowledge in the scripture is not defined the way Webster has it here. God’s foreknowledge is not his ability to predict the future, but rather his ordering things in the future according to his will.

Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: Act 2:23

Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. Isa 53:10

For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world. Heb 4:3

This verse says that Jesus was delivered “by the” foreknowledge of God.

God’s foreknowledge has to do with a declaration of what He has already done. What has God already done with us?

We were in Christ BEFORE the foundation of the world.

Just like you did not have the choice of who your parents would be you have no choice in being in Christ or Adam.

According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. Eph 1:4-6

For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 1Co 15:21-22

The above verses show that there are two “races” of people in the earth; those that are of Adam’s race and those that are of Christ’s. Every man was in one of the races before the foundation of the world. This proves that man does not have a choice about which race they belong to or will belong to.

And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Mat 1:21
Jesus came to save a people that were already his.

But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Joh 1:12

Those that received Christ did so because they were given the power to do so. The power to choose Christ was within them.

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. Joh 10:27-28

Jesus declares that he has sheep that do not have eternal life (lost in the fall) that he calls to and they answer (redeemed).

Please leave your comments. They are appreciated.

Salvation Is Not The Same As Being Born Again

2009-08-15T01:28:00.002-05:00

Salvation is the goal of every believer, or should be. Many believers think that salvation is a one time occurance that happens when you "believe that Jesus died for your sins." Others believe in multiple salvations; one you get in the beginning and another you get at the end (maybe). When studying the bible in recent years I have asked the Lord to deliver me from imposing my understanding, interpretations, and such like from my reading. I have prayed to see the scripture and believe what it says. So this is my attempt to provide a study of the word salvation as it appears in scripture.

And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. (Mat 10:22)

But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. (Mat 24:13)

And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. (Mar 13:13)

In the previous verses we see that "being saved" is something that occurs at the "end." And those that receive it have already undergone a transformation. The transformation that has occured is they have been born again. You will note that the persons to whom this statement was given are those who already have life.

To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins, Luk_1:77

Take note that the knowledge of salvation is given upon ones sins being remitted. Salvation is not the cause of the remission but something that can be had after sins have been remitted.

The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation. Act 16:17

You will see that in this verse (although the agent was possesed with a devil) this person declares that there is a "way" of salvation. It is my belief that obtaining salvation at the end is through a process.

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: (Eph 2:8)

The process of being saved is the gift that is refered to in Eph 2:8. To show that it (salvation) is a process we see words that denote "movement" or "direction." Prepositional phrases "by grace" and "through faith" are added to give clarity to the verse. This is why other bible versions say "being saved" in the passage. Salvation (including the process to obtain it) is "the gift of God." And one must endure to the end to obtain it.

In Gill's exposition on the bible we find:

“Salvation is through faith, not as a cause or condition of salvation, or as what adds anything to the blessing itself; but it is the way, or means, or instrument, which God has appointed, for the receiving and enjoying it, that so it might appear to be all of grace; and this faith is not the produce of man's free will and power, but it is the free gift of God; and therefore salvation through it is consistent with salvation by grace; since that itself is of grace, lies entirely in receiving grace and gives all the glory to the grace of God: the sense of this last clause may be, that salvation is not of ourselves; it is not of our desiring nor of our deserving, nor of our performing, but is of the free grace of God: though faith is elsewhere represented as the gift of God, Joh_6:65...”

Please consider the following verses with regard to salvation being a point reached in the end.

For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. Heb 10:36 - 39

You will note that salvation in the above verse comes "after ye have done the will of God."

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. Rom 1:16

Salvation is made available for everyone that believes.

For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. Rom 10:10

Confession puts you that much closer to salvation. This confession is daily, both in word and deed.

And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 2Ti 3:15

Salvation comes through faith. Faith is the entry door and the path of salvation.

How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; Heb 2:3

The great salvation can be neglected by believers that do not believe.

So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation. Heb 9:28

When Christ comes he is bringing salvation for those that look for Him.

Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 1Pe 1:5

Salvation will be revealed in the last time (when Jesus returns).

Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. (1Pe 1:9)
Salvation is obtained when we have reached the end of our faith.

Born Again

Joh 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
Joh 3:7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.
Joh 3:15 That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
Joh 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Joh 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

Joh 20:31 But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.

Please leave your comments. They are greatly appreciated.

Divorce and Remarriage

2009-07-07T01:53:00.001-05:00

Mt 19:3 ¶ The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?
4 And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female,
5 And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?
6 Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
7 They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away?
8 He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.
9 And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.
10 His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry.
11 But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given.
12 For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.

Here, God is telling us that divorce is permitted under the circumstance of fornication. There are some questions that need to be answered:
1. What is fornication?
2. When are two considered “husband and wife?”
3. Why was this saying so hard for the disciples?

Fornication in general means any unlawful sexual relations; this not being limited to men with women. However as we study the bible, vague loosely defined words will not hold any weight. So we must provide a clearer definition. Consider the following:
Fornication: 1. The incontinence or lewdness of unmarried persons, male or female;

With this clearer definition we see that fornication is narrowed to unmarried persons. So if unmarried persons commit lewdness it is called fornication. Let us reexamine the verse. 9 And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication… So with this in mind we can began to examine what the Lord is saying to us.

As we continue let us remember that these words were given to first century Jews. We need to be careful not to interpret with 21st century understanding. Fornication was never to be confused with adultery. Notice the following:
Mt 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:
Mr 7:21 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders,
1Co 7:2 Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.
1Co 6:9 ¶ Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,

So, again, we see a clear distinction between fornication and adultery.

8 He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.
9 And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.

Fornication meant that the young lady was “playing the whore.” A thing that was so terrible that the only remedy was stoning. Notice the following:

De 22:21 Then they shall bring out the damsel to the door of her father's house, and the men of her city shall stone her with stones that she die: because she hath wrought folly in Israel, to play the whore in her father's house: so shalt thou put evil away from among you.

The above context was a young lady who was just married and her husband suspected that she was not a virgin. Let’s look at the verses in their entirety.

De 22:13 ¶ If any man take a wife, and go in unto her, and hate her,
14 And give occasions of speech against her, and bring up an evil name upon her, and say, I took this woman, and when I came to her, I found her not a maid:
15 Then shall the father of the damsel, and her mother, take and bring forth the tokens of the damsel's virginity unto the elders of the city in the gate:
16 And the damsel's father shall say unto the elders, I gave my daughter unto this man to wife, and he hateth her;
17 And, lo, he hath given occasions of speech against her, saying, I found not thy daughter a maid; and yet these are the tokens of my daughter's virginity. And they shall spread the cloth before the elders of the city.
18 And the elders of that city shall take that man and chastise him;
19 And they shall amerce him in an hundred shekels of silver, and give them unto the father of the damsel, because he hath brought up an evil name upon a virgin of Israel: and she shall be his wife; he may not put her away all his days.
20 But if this thing be true, and the tokens of virginity be not found for the damsel:
21 Then they shall bring out the damsel to the door of her father's house, and the men of her city shall stone her with stones that she die: because she hath wrought folly in Israel, to play the whore in her father's house: so shalt thou put evil away from among you.

Let us look in detail at the above verses. The man had just taken his wife, now he hates her. There is nothing that suggests an enormous lapse of time. He brings up a report that she is not a maid (in this case a virgin). The parents bring the “tokens of her virginity” to the elders of the city. There they spread the cloth to determine if the tokens are present. If they are the man is chastised. Additionally he is told that “he may not put her away all his days.”
The tokens of her virginity are none other than the blood stain that was caused when a maid looses her virginity. This is the evidence that the elders are looking for.
On a side note, this is not always present in modern virgins because of tampons. These are inserted into the body and the break occurs the first time they are used.
If the blood was present the husband may not put her away ALL his days.
IF the tokens were not found then the daughter was taken and stoned for playing the whore in her father’s house.

I believe these verses make it clear that fornication is clearly distinguishable from adultery and must be considered when examining Matthew 19.
Husband and Wife
When are the two considered one flesh? When the man leaves his mother and father and takes unto him a wife.

When the man takes unto him a wife they are considered husband and wife. This is even before the consummation of the marriage. Consider the following:
Mt 1:18 ¶ Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.
19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.
20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.

Let us examine these verses more closer. Mary was espoused to Joseph. What exactly does this mean?
ESPOUS'ED, pp. Betrothed; affianced; promised in marriage by contract; married; united intimately; embraced.
They were not only engaged, betrothed, but married in the most simplest definition. This was even before the consummation. It is at this time that Joseph, he husband, being a just man was going to “put her away” privily. The angel stopped him and fear not to take his wife.
Mt 1:24 Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:
25 And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.

Let us now examine the putting away. Joseph had every right to put his wife away because of Mary being with child. Remember it was called folly to “play the whore.” An act so terrible that warranted death.
She, obviously, was no “maid” being with child. Due to the circumstances Joseph was well within his right to put her away, and were it not for the angel he would have. But since the thing was of God, he took her unto him, not knowing her until she gave birth to JESUS.
Until Death Do Us Part
Matthew 19
10 His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry.
11 But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given.

The fact that the disciples suggested that this was a hard saying shows the gravity of marriage. Since it is a lifelong covenant (he may not put her away all his days), Jesus says that “All men cannot receive this saying.” The Jewish males had, no doubt, grown accustomed to leaving their wives and getting new ones when they felt it necessary. However this was never condoned by, nor in the mind of God for marriage.

Marriage should not be entered into without counsel. And most people should probably be counseled out of marriage when possible.
Mennonite Views
The earliest Anabaptist tract on divorce and remarriage, "Concerning Divorce", was written in 1527 and has been attributed by some to Michael Sattler. It stressed the permanence of the marriage bond, the priority of one's obligation to Christ over one's obligations to a marriage partner, adultery as the only grounds for divorce, taboos against marrying a fornicator, and sanctions against remarrying when divorced. Menno Simons also called for faithfulness in marriage, allowing adultery as the only grounds for divorce, according to Matthew 19:9 and I Corinthians 7:4. According to J.C. Wenger, the Swiss Brethren, the Moravian Hutterites and the Dutch Mennonites all had similar standards regarding divorce. http://www.mhsc.ca/index.asp?content=http://www.mhsc.ca/encyclopedia/contents/D59ME.html

Scripturally, there is nothing which breaks the marriage bond except death. The act of adultery does not dissolve the marriage bond, although it decidedly affects the quality of a marriage relationship and leaves a permanent scar on the persons involved. A legal document called divorce, from God's point of view, does not break the marriage bond, else remarriage would not be adultery. Even the conversion of one of two unbelieving married partners does not dissolve the marriage bond. If the unbelieving partner should leave, the marriage bond continues. Divorced persons who enter a second marriage relation while their first partners are still living may be recognized by the state as legally married, hut "from the beginning it was not so." Matt. 5:31, 32; 19:6-8; Mk. 10:4-9: Prov. 6:32. 33; Rom.7:1-3; 1 Cor. 7:10-16, 39.

Divorce was granted in the Old Testament only as a concession and was neither commanded nor commended by God. Divorce is clearly depicted in the Scriptures as being in direct contradiction to the original purpose of God and the true nature of marriage. Principles of the New Testament would allow a divorced person two options. He may remain unmarried or be reconciled to his partner. Deut. 24:1-4; Matt. 5:31, 32; 19:3-8; Mk. 10:2-9; 1 Cor. 7:10,11.

A very real test comes when children are born in an adulterous marriage relationship. To dissolve such a family unit may cause the children extreme suffering. However, children are also caused to suffer similarly from divorce of original partners or from being born out of wedlock. Such consequences are touching, and are a grim reminder that in the wake of sin there are many innocent sufferers. Prov. 6:32, 33; 13:15; Gal. 6:7, 8.
http://www.bibleviews.com/divorce-remarriage-position.html

I would like to show the utter nonsense of the Mennonite view concerning divorce and remarriage. According to them they believe that marriage is for life, even among unbelievers. However, to their discredit, they suggest a married couple with or without children get a divorce. They even suggest going back to a husband or wife after they have been married before. This is clearly condemned in scripture:
De 24:1 ¶ When a man hath taken a wife, and married her, and it come to pass that she find no favour in his eyes, because he hath found some uncleanness in her: then let him write her a bill of divorcement, and give it in her hand, and send her out of his house.
4 Her former husband, which sent her away, may not take her again to be his wife, after that she is defiled; for that is abomination before the LORD: and thou shalt not cause the land to sin, which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance.

Furthermore if marriage is for life, what about the current marriage? It is just as binding as the previous one.
Mennonites believe in salvation by works. With that in mind, they believe that if one is in a divorced and remarriage situation that they cannot be saved. This is completely ridiculous. The gospel says that “whosoever.” If marriage is honored by God whether believer or unbeliever, and divorce and remarriage is not condoned by God, then getting a divorce now is likewise as evil.
Having said that the best thing to do is recognize the wrong repent, and move on with serving God. There is nothing in scripture that says that the divorced and remarried couple should annul their current relationship and go back to their previous husband or wife, who may be in a new relationship.

Conclusion
God has made it clear that marriage is for life. Unfortunately many have committed wrongs before and after salvation that has made a mess of our society through divorce and remarriage. We simply cannot continue to allow this in our churches. Pastors must do what they can to encourage commitment in current relationships and admonish courting couples to thoroughly consider the gravity of the decision they are considering. The bible gives some encouraging words for husbands and wives.

Eph 5:25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
Col 3:19 Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.

Eph 5:22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
Col 3:18 ¶ Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.

Tit 2:3 The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;
4 That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,
5 To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.
Epilogue
Marriage is a complete commitment of both the man and woman to each other. Sure there will be “life events” that will happen to anyone and everyone, however these events should cause the couple to become closer together not vice versa.
Vows
Did not the two that entered into the marriage covenant, entered into a vow before God and witnesses? And in the covenant is there room to disannul it for any reason? Consider the following concerning vows.

Ec 5:4 ¶ When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed.
5 Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay.
6 Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin; neither say thou before the angel, that it was an error: wherefore should God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thine hands?

The marriage covenant is sealed with an oath to each other under any and all circumstances.

Lust
The best protection from lust is to not make provision for it:
Ro 13:14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
Job 31:1 ¶ I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?

This abomination should never happen in the life of the believer if he/she is walking with the Lord. A departure from the Lord is surely a way to bring this kind of sin into the your life.
Final Admonition
Mal 2:12 The LORD will cut off the man that doeth this, the master and the scholar, out of the tabernacles of Jacob, and him that offereth an offering unto the LORD of hosts.
13 And this have ye done again, covering the altar of the LORD with tears, with weeping, and with crying out, insomuch that he regardeth not the offering any more, or receiveth it with good will at your hand.
14 Yet ye say, Wherefore? Because the LORD hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy youth, against whom thou hast dealt treacherously: yet is she thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant.
15 And did not he make one? Yet had he the residue of the spirit. And wherefore one? That he might seek a godly seed. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth.
16 For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away:

Freedom From Sin

2009-07-06T12:02:00.004-05:00

What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so 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: knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Know ye not, brethren, (for I speak to them that know the law,) how that the law hath dominion over a man as long as he liveth? For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband. So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man. Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God. For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter. 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 hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

The labor of Paul in Romans is to bring the Roman believers to the knowledge that they are free from sin. It may be that the Romans think that because of their cultural upbringing and continued presence in the midst of it they are still sinners. Humbly I would like to show you that we are no longer sinners using the above verses.

We are dead to sin. Dead things have to awareness of anything around them. They are not even aware of themselves because they are dead. Believers are dead to sin. We are completely unaware of it. And it has no power to affect us. When we were baptized into Christ we were baptized into his death. When Christ was raised from the dead we were raised with him. We are actually seated in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. (Eph 2:6) The old man (who we used to be) is crucified. He that is dead is free from sin.
We were married to sin by the law. The law states that as our husband lives we are bound to serve him. And if I choose to marry someone else while my husband lives I am committing adultery. I cannot be joined to Christ, lawfully, until my husband is dead. As long as my husband lives I am bound to him. Being married I have the responsibility to bring forth fruit. I am not barren. I do bring forth fruit and that unto death. Fruit baring is not an option. The motions of sin demand it. My husband, sin, is dead to me. I can freely be given to Christ. Christ can now be my husband. I have the responsibility to bring forth fruit and do; fruit unto righteousness. I can only bring forth fruit of the one whom I am married.
I am free from condemnation because I am free from sin. Romans 8:1b is not a statement of qualification but one of fact. The fact is I walk after the Spirit because I am spirit. There is no condemnation to me. Why? Because of the law of the spirit of life. I am free from the law of sin and death. I am not married to sin. Sin is dead to me. I no longer bring forth fruit unto righteousness by nature. My fruit can only be that of righteousness according to my nature. My nature is that of righteousness and I am free from the nature of sin.
Not knowing this means that you (child of God) are still in bondage to sin even though he is dead to you. You are still bringing forth fruit to death.

-Me (Mrs. Free)

WHO I AM

2009-06-24T02:22:00.000-05:00

Rom 8:9 But ye 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.

Ye: "The Called" Rom 1:6, "Beloved of God" Rom 1:7, "Your faith is spoken of" Rom 1:8
ARE IN THE SPIRIT (have the Spirit): Joh 3:6, 2Cor 1:22, 1Cor 2:12, 1Cor 3:16, Rom 8:15, Eph 1:13, Eph 4:30

While it is true that the believer is to "walk in the Spirit" this verse does not say anything about walking. It is a statement of fact. The fact is we are in the Spirit and we have the Spirit. Furthermore we are spirit. We are in/have/dwelt by/sealed with/of the spirit. This has nothing NOTHING to do with our walk.

We are new creatures (2Cor 5:17) we do not have a sinful nature, just sinful habits. Our minds are to be renewed (Rom 12:2). We are righteous (1Cor 1:30), we are justified (Acts 13:39), we are glorified (Rom 8:30), we are adopted (Rom 8:15), we are complete in him (Col 2:10), we are sanctified (1Cor 6:11), we are made alive (Eph 2:1), we are perfected forever (Heb 10:14), we are partakers of the inheritance (Col 1:12, 13), we are indwelt by the Spirit (1Cor 3:16), we are dead to the law (Rom 7:4), we are delivered from the power of darkness (Col 1:13), we are changed into members of the kingdom of Christ (Col 1:13). None NONE of these have anything to do with my walk.

Mercy

2009-06-10T10:24:00.002-05:00

Mat 5:7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.

This verse declares that if I live my life demonstrating mercy then I can expect receive it. This is one of the foundational teachings of Christ. The "Be Attitudes" they are called. And why are they called that? Because this is how we are to be. How can we be this? Because this is who we are. We are the representation of Christ's mercy on earth. Mercy is not something we do; something we put on and take off. Indeed, we are the embodiment of mercy.

2Co 4:5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.
2Co 4:6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
2Co 4:7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

My prayer is that I, in every area of my life, be an earthen vessel that demonstrates the excellency of the Christ who died for me and lives in me. That I too may declare like Paul:

Gal 2:19 For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God.
Gal 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
Gal 2:21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

Whoa What Happened??

2009-06-10T00:01:00.001-05:00

The following is from my wall on my facebook page... I have not altered any of the comments.

Lewis Palmer 'Bout to watch "The Passion of the Christ" with the family.
6:40pm · Comment · LikeUnlike · Show Feedback (22)Hide Feedback (22)
You and David Herreman like this.
David Herreman likes this.
Sammy Salinas
Sammy Salinas at 7:35pm June 9
Hey Lew, haven't seen that one. ;)
Let me know what you think. Blessings
Sonya Salinas
Sonya Salinas at 7:50pm June 9
Great acting, excellent dialogue in different dialects, amazing cinematography..... please do give a review.
Mike Berzins
Mike Berzins at 9:09pm June 9
I'm probably too late, but don't do it!
Lewis Palmer
Lewis Palmer at 9:36pm June 9
It was very very good. First of all it is a movie it is not the bible. I do not think that Mel intended to teach us theology. We know (or have been told) Gibson is a committed Catholic. As such he professes to love the Jesus that died on the cross for him. I believe that Gibson, in the best way he knows how, is telling us this "love story" from ... Read Morehis perspective. The movie is very touching. Anyone with a cursory knowledge of the crucifixion knows that it hurt. Gibson gives us a "glimpse" of what Jesus felt. I cried. Not because the acting was moving, but because the story is. Because He went through soooo much so that I could be with Him. This was but a small demonstration of how much He loves me. I was ashamed. I don't love others like that. I am ashamed to say that I am not as committed to the Father as Jesus is. (Reminds me of a David Crowder song "Remedy") And yet I am encouraged. This is an outstanding movie of one man's desire to show how much his Savior loved him.
Scott Romack
Scott Romack at 9:47pm June 9
And the woman who played Mary is a porn star.
Lewis Palmer
Lewis Palmer at 9:49pm June 9
Oh I suppose you were one of the righteous ones that Christ did not die for? Mr. Monty Python??
Lewis Palmer
Lewis Palmer at 10:12pm June 9
I was not watching a porn flick, I was watching a movie about Jesus.
Sonya Salinas
Sonya Salinas at 10:18pm June 9
Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. Wow...Mercy I think is what he's saying to give.. wouldn't you agree?
Scott Romack
Scott Romack at 10:23pm June 9
I don't really understand your first comment.
If my once watching a 5 min. segment (in the holy grail where the night chops off the guys arms and legs and fake blood goes squirting) somehow justifies you watching movies. I repent. I repent anyway. I will never watch so called art made by unregenerate christ haters.
Scott Romack
Scott Romack at 10:25pm June 9
The porn star part was just a fact that could be worked into your movie review.
Lewis Palmer
Lewis Palmer at 10:29pm June 9
My only point (about monty) was that those who think it is ok to throw stones at sinners should duck.
Scott Romack
Scott Romack at 10:34pm June 9
That's fine the mote is out of my eye, now I can see clearly to remove yours. "Friendship with the world is enmity with God". The Passion of the Christ shows "the lord" played by unsaved guy x walk by with his buttock exposed for this reason alone I would not recommend any follower of Christ to partake.
Lewis Palmer
Lewis Palmer at 10:48pm June 9
No buttock... this was actually a point of comedy when we discovered how blinded by "zeal" we were to condemn something without fully hearing. Reminds me of Proverbs. Something about folly is answering a matter without hearing it. Thanks for exposing my mote. Is it gone now?
Nevets Standiford
Nevets Standiford at 10:48pm June 9
Passion of the Christ? Are you just kidding?
Scott Romack
Scott Romack at 10:51pm June 9
I don't know Do you repent?
Scott Romack
Scott Romack at 10:54pm June 9
I can send you a screenshot of the false lords hiny but i'd rather not.
Maybe you're getting to used to mild porn to know the difference?
Lewis Palmer
Lewis Palmer at 10:56pm June 9
Oh... I missed it. I was supposed to repent of something? I suppose I should repent of not being as narrow minded as others I know... Maybe I should repent for not being harsh and calling it love... Ummm no I do not repent.
Lewis Palmer
Lewis Palmer at 10:59pm June 9
http://mobilelew.blogspot.com
Scott Romack
Scott Romack at 11:07pm June 9
Faithful [are] the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy [are] deceitful.
"Maybe I should repent for not being harsh and calling it love.." you've been reading Olsteen?
Lewis Palmer
Lewis Palmer at 11:10pm June 9
That is very interesting. "you've been reading Olsteen?" Can you see that all you are doing is fault finding. Nothing else to do but debate about what others are doing or not doing. Is anyone seeking the Lord till He comes?? :)
Nevets Standiford
Nevets Standiford at 11:13pm June 9
Lewis brother you know that I think very highly of you. You are a blessing to me.
Check this out. If we find ourselves viewing something in a 'cavalier' manner, things that we would have never watched before, and then find ourselves partaking, then we should see some red flag, right? Remember how you got on to me about Veggie Tales one time? Don't... Read More you think that this goes way beyond Larry the Cucumber? You had been very serious before about our Lord being portrayed by 'Hollywood', a group that goes against the Body of Christ at every turn.

Lewis are you kidding about watching this movie? Are you doing some kind of secret test on us??
If so, please don't trick me brother...
Lewis Palmer
Lewis Palmer at 11:28pm June 9
I have watched in a 'cavalier' manner a movie that is a portrayal of the Christ that the man says he believes in. Is the only contradiction that one has to the movie is because it was made in Hollywood? There is no cussing, no nudity, nothing at all ungodly, but because it was made in Hollywood it is wrong. Do you think something is wrong with that... Read More conclusion? Hollywood is a business like the one that you work at. They employ unbelievers and yet you do not "abstain from the appearance of evil" in the work place.
Scott Romack at 11:38pm June 9
I do not work with unbelievers.
Hey, Las Vegas is only a business too?
Jeff Hayden
Jeff Hayden at 11:39pm June 9
I cant take it anymore you people down at Kingdom have lost your minds !!!! I do mean that exactly as it sounds too. What has gone wrong with you people. All you do is sit around and condemn other people from the pedestal that you have placed yourselves on. At one time you were not all like this but it seems as you all have gone completely off the ... Read Moredeep end and convinced each other that you are the most Holy people on the Earth and it is somehow your jobs now to show everyone else how they should be more like you. Good grief. SHUT UP ALREADY !!! Leaving that Church was the best thing I ever did for my family. I didn't realize just how judgmental everyone was until I got away from you people for a while. Now I listen to some of the goings on down there and look at postings like this and I have never seen so clearly what a bunch of self righteous group you people really are. Gee ... its no wonder so many marriages have split up down there. Isnt it always the person that leaves fault too!
Scott Romack
Scott Romack at 11:39pm June 9
"He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain [persons is] void of understanding."

Who He Is

2009-06-06T00:00:00.001-05:00

Jesus is Lord! Give Him the praise due to His name. Blessings to you all.

God Forknew Us!

2009-05-14T19:19:00.002-05:00

Romans 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.

This has been a source of debate for years (and still is). The great Armenian/Calvinist debate. The truth is they are both wrong and right. But this is not to discuss that issue. God foreknew us. God did not just know us because He knows all things. This know is intimate; as a father knows his children or a man knows his wife. Believers existed as life in Christ (Eph 1:4, Hebrews 2:13, 14) before the foundation of the world. Just as Levi paid tithes in the loins of Abraham (Hebrews 7:9) we were children, without flesh, that were sent into the world through Adam. That the church is secure in Christ is undeniable. The reality that we were in Christ before the foundation of the world is more proof.

More on this later.

God in us as life

2009-03-03T18:50:00.001-06:00

God In Us As Life
Text: Ephesians 1
Believers are possessors of eternal life. However not all believers as possessed by eternal life. For some they are conducting themselves as if they were “mere men.” Believers are not just “mortal beings” that will live for ever at some time in the future. We have God’s life in us. God’s life is not only eternal in duration but eternal in quality. This life cannot be disturbed by the effects of time or circumstances or limited by the laws that govern the physical. We are the expression of God in the earth because we are His body. The body should be animated by His life.
Believing takes the “cap” off of our limited thinking. Unbelief is what seals us from experiencing the divine life. Believing brings us to the place where the things that are possible with God are possible with us. It is not believing something that is not true but believing the very promises of God. For instance it is written “I shall never leave thee nor forsake the...” We get the call from God to “leave our father’s house and kindred” and we don’t “see” how this is going to work out. We have two choices 1.) leave as the commandment stated or 2.) decided that it was not the command of God and stay. Staying is proof that we do not believe God. This unbelief “limits” the work of God in our lives. Leaving, on the other hand, proves that we believe God and though we don’t “see” how it will all work out, we know that He will never leave us nor forsake us. This will put us in a position to see the power of God; His life manifested through our mortal bodies (Romans 8:11). Unbelief and doubt will limit the flow of God’s life through us.

Sin Managment

2009-03-02T16:11:00.001-06:00

1 Corinthians 9:27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

The life of the believer within the body is not and should not be consumed in sin managment. The mature believer should be a blessing to the Lord by being a help to others.

Galatians 6:1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

2 Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

So many believers are "struggling" over how to handle and deal with sin. Because of this they are not even "in the ring" so to speak. They are still plying jacks or uno or something. They are not in a position to deal with the kingdom of darkness because they are too busy trying not to sin. Somehow this has become the proof of being spiritual, that is, not sinning. The barometer of our spirituality is whether or not we are following the will of the Father.

Serene Chaos

2009-02-24T13:47:00.001-06:00

Jesus lover of my soul... It is wonderful and simply amazing when the soul comes under the subjection of the One who called it to glory and virtue. Peace that can not be described with words... the absolute abilty to have complete calmness in midst of unfavorable circumstances cannot be leaned by the propagation of doctrine or the excersize of practicing intellectual, systematic thinking, but rather by the complete surrender to the person of Jesus Christ.

Final Authority

2009-01-06T10:35:00.002-06:00

Psalm 119:105 NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

If the scripture is true, then all light is derived from it. Truth does not exist apart from the person of Christ. Therefore if one is truly seeking truth they will find Christ.

John 5:39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.

The scripture is for the purpose of finding Christ. It is not a book to be used to fulfill ones own personal interests or gains. We are to seek out Christ for the purpose of fulfilling the purpose whereunto he has called us. It is not enough to do good, but to satisfy the will of the Father. To this end men should search the scripture.

Ecclesiastes 12:13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.

Walking In The Spirit

2008-12-07T21:20:00.001-06:00

What does that mean? Watchman Nee said it best that all too often we seek to be in the presence of God and arrive there in prayer. But when the prayer is over somehow they are no longer in His presence (The Breaking of The Outer Man and Release of The Spirit). So how do I maintain the "spiritual walk" apart from the closet? This is done by walking in obedience to the Father after we "come down off the mountain." It is in the valley the Lord wants us to walk in what he has given us on the mount. The truest measure that my "mountain top experience" was spiritual is my carrying it out in the valley. I am not saying that there will not be difficulty. However in the face of difficulty we have a zeal, an intention, a purpose to do that which the Father has commanded.

Walking in the spirit is not a mystery to those who seek His face. However apart from clear biblical teaching is can be very misunderstood.

There are some that believe that walking in the spirit is hearing an inward voice and being led by that voice (only). Others believe that it is reading the scripture following it apart from any impressions (only). I believe they are both right and wrong. It is both.

Walking in the spirit is an absolute necessity. The scripture (Romans 8:1) says that if one does not walk in the spirit they will be condemned. So using God revealed will (the scripture) I walk in obedience to Him, in communion with Him. However when necessary God, by the Spirit, leads me to do some particular thing that in no way conflicts with His revealed will. For instance in the course of my day the Spirit may lead me to put a gospel tract in my pocket. The Spirit then compels me to give the tract to someone. In this instance I am walking in the Spirit just as much as one who does not steal or commits adultery.

As my senses are excersized (by reason of use) I will be able to discern between good and evil.

Relationship and Fellowship

2008-12-02T15:21:00.001-06:00

FEL'LOWSHIP, n.

1. Companionship; society; consort; mutual association of persons on equal and friendly terms; familiar intercourse.

RELA'TIONSHIP, n. The state of being related by kindred, affinity or other alliance.

All too often we mistake relationship for fellowship and vice versa. We make the fellowship the basis for relationship, when, scripturally, it is the other way around (1John 1). All fellowships must share some commonality. In the case of believers the commonality is the person of Christ. All believers, as it is written, are in Christ. So then our fellowship is based firstly on our relationship with relationship with Him. There are instances where fellowship is to be broken, but the relationship is never broken. So even when we can no longer “break bread” with a brother (or sister) we must still treat them as such. There is a balance that can be achieved but it can only come by way of the Spirit.

Believers should practice fellowshipping together. Today, fellowship never goes beyond denominational boundaries. And even within denominations fellowship is limited. The Father does not see us the we see us. He sees us all as His children. As a parent I don’t see any of my children differently. However with some of my children their practices disappoint me. Not all my children live their life in light of me being pleased. So I, when a disappointing issue occurs, have to use that as a time to encourage proper behavior.

When one of the children misbehave, their siblings don’t shun them. At least with my children I find them encouraging the behavior that is expected. They don’t behave differently towards them. Even when they have to have correction they don’t laugh and say “See I told you that you were going to get the rod!” They try to comfort each other. However in our spiritual relationships we don’t practice the same behavior. We treat each other like they are not our Father’s children. We have practiced a manner of life that is inconsistent with the life that we have been given. This is shameful. After all when we get to eternity we will all be there for a very long time. We should get the practice in now.

Because of our relationship with the Father, we should embrace the relationship we have with each other.

1Cor 13; Phil 2; Eph 1, 2, 3, 4; Gal 6; Acts 2, 4;

Long Time No Post

2008-10-04T00:16:00.001-05:00

Still here. My life is getting even more complex, or maybe my thinking is becoming more and more simple... not sure.

Adam vs Christ

2008-07-03T00:46:00.003-05:00

Believers are not of the seed of Adam. God has made choice of some before the foundation of the world to be His. These He chose, not because they would one day choose Him, but because of His own grace which He has purposed within Himself. Here are some verses to prove this. God bless you.

Joh 17:8 For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me.

Joh 1:11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.

12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

1Ti 4:10 For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe.

Php 1:29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;

Ga 3:22 But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.

2Co 6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,

18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

1Co 15:21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead.

22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.

Eph 1:1 ¶ Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus: grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: according as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: that in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: in whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: that we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; 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 ye 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, 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 hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.

Ephesians 1

Testings of The Lord

2008-05-20T09:05:00.001-05:00

Trials do not come to determine who you will become they come to see if you will walk in who you are. Jonah confessed that he was a Hebrew and one that feared the Lord. Yet one might say "his actions told a different story." What we see is not the determining factor for who we are but rather what God has said about us. 5/19/08

Man's Will

2008-03-06T11:33:00.003-06:00

The question of man’s will is often the root of the questions of man’s salvation. What part does man’s will play or is it employed at all. Often the language used is man’s “free” will. This is an attempt to explain what man’s “free” will is and the role it plays in salvation.

1. The State of Man Before The Fall

Man was created in the image and likeness of God. Inasmuch as God is a thinking rational being man was likewise and possessed the ability to choose between good and evil or rather to obey or disobey the voice of God. God gave man the command of not eating of the tree in the midst of the garden; the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. The encouragement that God gave to obey this was the consequence of dying the day the fruit of it was eaten (Gen_2:16-17). At this time man possessed the ability to not sin as well as the ability to sin. Both were possessions of man. Man could walk with God freely and talk with him without either the guilt or stain of sin. Man was completely “free” to choose God and refuse evil. At this time man’s will was free and man was free from sin.

2. The State of Man After The Fall

When Adam decided to eat of the tree a very strange thing occurred; Adam lived for 930 years. This may seem to be contradictory to the consequences given by God. But it is not. Man died the day he ate of the tree, although he lived to be 930. The thing that died was his spirit. Man’s spirit died in the garden the day he ate of the tree. At the point of death man no longer possessed the ability to choose good; mans thoughts were only evil continually (Gen_6:5). Being in this state man’s fate is death because now man is a sinner. Every one born after Adam is born in sin. This they are not because of something that they have done or not done but because of the absence of the life of the spirit. Apart from the spirit man will not seek after God nor choose God. God is not in all of man’s thoughts. Psa 10:4 The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts. One may say that says the wicked. Indeed. Man’s present state is wicked.

3. Man’s Will

Man’s will is no longer free to choose God. His will is now in a state of being estranged* from God (Gen_6:3). Man’s will is no longer free. Man is a slave to sin, sinful thoughts, sinful passions. Man cannot help but sin. This is because of his nature. It is in the nature of man to commit sinful acts. Cain was not taught how to be envious, or to express bitterness, or even to murder. And, yet, he did these things. Why? Because of the sin nature. This sin nature causes man to commit acts of sin. Due to the sin nature and the patience of God man will not repent for his sinful actions. Ecc 8:11 Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil. Man does not recognize that God is being merciful by not punishing them immediately and yet man continues his course. This is all a result of man’s spirit being dead. The scripture says verily every man at his best state is altogether vanity. Man’s will, will only choose evil.

4. Sirs what must I do to be saved?

Consider the language of the following verse: Rom 5:19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. Why did it say that many shall be made righteous? One might say that because they did not choose God and his ways. Please remember that God has conclude all under sin (Gal_3:22) and God has already said that mans thoughts and imaginations were only evil continually. Many are made righteous because of the promise of faith in Christ is given to them that believe. Another place it says “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:” (Joh_1:12). Those that receive Jesus do so because God has given them the power to believe. God has given them the gift of faith (Eph_2:8). God has made selection of them according the counsel of his own will. Joh 1:13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. God’s grace is all that will save man from the state of sin. This is because man in his own ability and out of his own resources will only choose evil. He will not choose God. So then God has to give grace to man in order for man to receive God and become one of his sons. Man cannot do this on his own. There is no reservoir of goodness or righteousness in man. There is not a hidden supply-house of holiness that man can use to have faith or believe in God. The account has insufficient funds. Only God’s grace can save man. Gal 3:22 But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. The promise is given to you. If you believe it is because it was given to you. Php 1:29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; Eph 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Eph 2:9 Not of works, lest any man should boast. You must believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you shall be saved. You must believe that he is the Christ, the Son of God. If one believes this truth not only is he saved, never to loose it, but you are chosen and accepted in the Beloved.

Concerning God's unwillingness for any to perish

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. (2Pe 3:9)

I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. (1Ti 2:1-4)

These two verses are used by some to say that God's favor has been extended to all men and that if they only believe they will be saved. While it is true that God is not willing that any should perish it is helpful that we look at the context in which the verses are given.

The verse in Peter is given believers. The context is that of believers. Believers in the verse are encouraged to look continually at the promises of God and not at their circumstances. The reason why they are going through the difficulties that they are experiencing is because God is not willing that any should perish. Any of who? Any of the saints. Unbelievers are not concerned about the Lord's coming. There is no threat to unbelievers concerning the day of the Lord. This is a real threat for believers. God is not willing that any of his children should miss the kingdom. Consider it another way. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. (Luk 12:32) This, Jesus is saying, that it is God's pleasure to give those that are his the kingdom. For it says it is the Father's pleasure? No but rather "your Father's pleasure." The Father is interested in giving the kingdom to those that belong to him. He is not willing that any should perish. This is the context of 2 Peter 3:9.

1Timothy 2:1:4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. The context in which this is given is that we should be praying for men to receive salvation. For kings and all that are in authority for the purpose of living a quiet and peaceable life. In other words as we pray for the salvation of others our lives are quiet and peaceable. As we seek for those who are the chosen of God to hear the gospel our lives are full of peace (Psalm 1, Proverbs 11:30). The life that we live that is concerned with the salvation of others will keep us from wrath and doubting (1Tim 2:8) it will keep women less concerned with the outward appearance and more concerned about the souls of the lost (1Tim 2:9). As believers live their lives in simplicity with thoughtful care for others those that are witness this will give glory to the Father and some will believe (Mat 5:16, 1Pet 3:2).

God has not said that all men will be saved but those to whom it has been given to believe will be.

Expectation Prayer and Patience

2008-02-06T13:25:00.000-06:00

Psalms 37:1-4

1 A Psalm of David. Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.
2 For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb.
3 Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.
4 Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.

Jesus our Saviour has wonderfully provided Himself as the ransom to redeem us from the snare of the enemy. When we were taken captive by the wiles of the devil through the sin of Adam God had not given up on us and reconciled us Himself to Himself restoring the harmony that we once had. We were the joy that was set before Him. In like manner we need to have an objective in view in order to endure for others what Christ endured for us. Christ has to become our joy and passion. We have to esteem Him as the object of our desire. So then as we find our comfort and delight in the Lord we will find more of Him.

1John 3:20-22
20 For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.
21 Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God.
22 And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.

As we seek the Lord allowing Him to be our refuge our defense and our trust, we will come to the place where we can ask the Him for the things that we need. Understand that God has already said that He would provide all that we eat drink and wear (Matthew 6). Since we have His word on it there is nothing more we need to be concerned about in that area. All other things are to be asked for and that asking based on need.

Mar 11:24 Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.
Jas 4:3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.

These two verses go together in that one says ask for what you desire and the other says if you ask to consume it upon your lusts you have no right to expect it. Secondly, the word desire in Mark does not simply mean want really bad. Desire has expectation of receiving. If there is no expectation in the desire it is wishing only.

Desire

1. An emotion or excitement of the mind, directed to the attainment or possession of an object from which pleasure, sensual, intellectual or spiritual, is expected; a passion excited by the love of an object, or uneasiness at the want of it, and directed to its attainment or possession. Desire is a wish to possess some gratification or source of happiness which is supposed to be obtainable.

So we see that in our Lord’s words, to desire is to have an expectation. So then for other items that we find ourselves in need of, that are not driven by our lust to have, we can confidently expect that we will have what we ask. Again in our hearts condemn us God is greater than our heart. The thing that we desire in prayer in prayer should not testify against us as we pray. A man may say that he needs a new car. But in fact does he need a new car? A new car may come with the comforts of a warranty but that does not mean that he needs it. So then he sets to pray for a new car. He visits car dealerships looking for the car that the Lord may give him. In the meanwhile he is offered a car by a friend. The friend has just gotten another car and this one being offered is a few years old but has lots of life left in it. It has been faithful to the previous owner and he would like to give it to his friend. The man turns it down saying he is in expectation for the Lord to give him a new car. That the man needs a car is not in question. Whether the man needs a new car is. God has graciously offered this man a car that runs, has lots of life left, has never been a problem and yet all he can see is that he wants a new car. All too often this is what we experience in prayer. We are aware of a need so we ask for more than necessary because we think that God will give it to us. God has promised to take care of our needs; all needs that are in addition to food water and clothing.

Php 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:11-13
11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Here is where many of us have missed the point in prayer. God has so arranged that our needs will be graciously met by His mighty power. However, in His sovereignty, he has decided to allow us to suffer in our needs for His own purposes. I believe, first of all, our sufferings in needs are to build character in us.

Romans 5:3-5
3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;
4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope:
5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

Patience is a necessary tool that we will need throughout our Christian life. Without it we will fail. Remember Paul said above that he knew how to “suffer need.” Needs are tools that God uses bring character in our lives.

Secondly, God uses needs to produce life in others. Some others may be in a state where they will fall. We in our sufferings, while dying in ourselves to ourselves, are producing life in others.

For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. So then death worketh in us, but life in you. 2Cor 4:11, 12

Thirdly, we suffer need because there has been a delay in the heavenlies in the answer getting to us. Daniel prayed for a vision’s answer and an angel was dispatched to deliver the answer. However the angel was held up 21 days before the answer arrived. So then we see that delays in answered prayer for needs are not a NO but could be the result of battles being fought in the invisible realm.

As we meditated on God and His word, may these truths bring us to greater spirituality with the Lord.

Thy Word

2007-11-01T15:28:00.001-06:00

The scripture says that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God. It was asked "Why doesn't everyone that read the scripture have faith? Because the scripture doesn't produce faith. The word of God does." This idea has begun a transformation in my thinking concerning the scriptuture. Jesus said "Search the scripture and in them ye think ye have eternal life..." Eternal life is not a product of the scripture but of the word of God. Jesus said again "...the words that I speak unto you they are spirit and they are life." Our words, based on the scripture, are to be used to give life to others. Not to bite and devour one another. May our speech be alway with grace seasoned with salt.

-Lewis
Titus 2:11-14

Releasing of the Spirit

2007-11-01T15:27:00.002-06:00

As believers we spend a great deal of time trying ro get from God. Jesus has been so wonderful to us in temporal, material things that we often miss all the spiritual (immaterial) blessings that we have. The blessing of life in His name. Life, not only in eterinity, but we have the eternal life of Christ dwelling inside of us. The blessing of peace that passes understanding. A peace that's our beyond what our circumstances declare.

The Name Jehovah

2007-11-01T15:27:00.001-06:00

I have had the urge to do a study on the names of God and their significance. I heard someone preaching on the name of Jehovah and caught my attention. This has importance to me because of the verse in Proverbs 18:10: "The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous run into it and are safe." The word LORD (note the all caps) signifies the name JEHOVAH. This is more than just a proper name, but a declaration that the One this name is ascribed to is the only true God. Psalm 83:18 That men may know that thou, whose name alone is JEHOVAH, art most high over all the earth. Psalm 68:4 Sing praises to His name: extol Him that rideth upon the heavens by His name JAH, and rejoice before Him. Interestingly the name JAH is not a shortened name JEHOVAH but a name all alone meaning "The God that is." Furthermore the name JEHOVAH is a declaration that God IS, WAS, and IS TO COME. JE (or JAH): God is, HO: God was, VAH: God is to come. It is no wonder that this is what is said about Jesus in Rev 1:8 I am Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the Ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty. Incidentally, and is not a coincidence, the name JESUS means "JEHOVAH is salvation." Jesus is the salvation of JEHOVAH, Jesus is JEHOVAH. Whatever help we need in times of trouble Jesus is the answer. Is there a difficulty that you cannot overcome? Jesus is the answer. He is Salvation. Philippians 2:9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name: (10) That at the name of JESUS every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; (11) And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is LORD, to the glory of God the Father.

2007-11-01T15:26:00.001-06:00

I forgot that my phone has a camera. Tre and I are taking pictures of things in the house. Oh well not really much to say. God bless.

-Lewis
Titus 2:11-14

The Revelation of Christ

2007-11-01T15:25:00.001-06:00

What was it that caused Abraham, Moses and the prophets to do the mighty works for God that they did? What was it that gave David the sweetness in his Psalms or the fight in him to be called a man of war? What made Joshua and Caleb absolutely persuaded that they could take the land? It was the revelation of the Christ. When we come to know Christ as He is we too will walk in complete victory in this life. It is not in keeping the law but in being animated by the very life of Christ. I am crucified with Christ nevertheless I live, yet not I but Christ lives in me. And the life that I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

-Lewis
Titus 2:11-14

Who We Are In Christ (1)

2007-11-01T15:23:00.000-06:00

Greetings in Jesus' name! I hope this email finds you growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. The purpose of these emails is to discuss our Lord, our relationship with Him and how we can grow in the grace and knowledge of Him. Secondly, this grace and knowledge should bring us closer to each member of the body of Christ both in our local gathering places and abroad. These truths trandscend denominations and races. It does not show preferential treatment of the rich and may not be politically correct. I nor any individual is the sole possessor of all the truth but together we will 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 passeth knowledge, that we might be filled with all the fulness of God. I endeavor to send these emails a few times a week. There are no specified days, but I will send them as often as I can. If you know of someone that could benefit from these or may enjoy them you have my permission to redistribute them in print or electronically (email). You may also send me their email and I will add them. If you do not wish to receive these emails in the future please respond with REMOVE in the subject line. God bless you all.

Jesus Christ, the son of man came to the earth to redeem those who are His. His death on the cross made it possible for man (human beings) to be bought back from sin and death. You may be one that belongs to Christ. The evidence is a desire to give your life to Him and allow Him to live His life through you. The first step in the process of giving your life over to Christ is being born again. There are no special words to say nor anything you must do to be born again. You must, simply, believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God and that by believing you have life in His name (John 20:31). If you believe this truth welcome to the family! There some things you must know as you begin your new life. Understand this, that you are no longer a creature of sin but a new creature, made in the image of God (2Cor (5:17) Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. Your very nature is no longer the same for you are now a child of God (Galatians (6:15) For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. Who are you? Let's see.

You are foreknown by God (Romans 8:29). This means that before the foundation of the world (age or time) we were known by God. Ephesians 1 says According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: that in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: in whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: that we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. (Ephesians 1:4-14) We were found "in Him" before the foundation of the world. God had already decided who was to be His and Christ was sent to purchase or redeem them from sin and death. Christ's death on the cross was not an accident but the plan of God. It was foretold in type as early as Genesis when God provided a sacrifice for man's nakedness in the garden. People who have not come to the knowledge of Christ need a covering upon them so that they will be accepted by the Father. Jesus is our covering. And He has been since before the foundation of the world. God forknew us and provided a way for us to be with Him for all eternity.

By the grace of God I will take up where I left off in a day or so. Please pray for me and these emails of encourgement that they will continue as long as the Lord Jesus wills. God bless you all

If you do not wish to receive these emails please reply with REMOVE in the subject.

Regards,
Mobile Lew

Titus 2:11-14

2007-06-26T21:23:00.000-05:00

Jesus Christ

The more I walk with the Lord, the more I realize the narrowness of the way. Mat 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it . Jesus wants everything to be in conformity with His perfect will. He wants us to trust Him completely. He will take us down paths that we would not ordinarily go, for His sake. We are to be witnesses for Him. More on that later. :)

2007-05-21T23:39:00.000-05:00

Lordship

I am purchased with a price. My life is not my own. George Muller said "Do not think to ever overcome your inward corruptions in any degree unless in your weakness you spend much time with the Lord in prayer." I am learning much about what it means to be under the lordship of Jesus Christ.
Luke 17:7 * But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat?
8 * And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink?
9 * Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow not.
10 * So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.

2007-04-18T23:20:00.000-05:00

Bible Software

On my laptop I use e-sword (http://e-sword.net). Rick has a bunch of bible versions as well as Strong's Hebrew and Greek text for those interested. I use the KJV (1769). For my Treo I have three. MyBible by Laridian (http://laridian.com) eBible (not sure where I downloaded it) and Bible+ (http://palmbibleplus.sourceforge.net). This one is free (no nags) and has commentaries lexicons and multiple bible versions just like e-sword. It is rapidly becoming my favorite (MyBible currently holds the title). If you happen to be a man or woman of God and have a mobile device, you might consider looking into one of these.

2007-04-14T21:39:00.000-05:00

Receiving God's Blessings

Psalm 1:1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

The receipient of God's blessings is a man that has first been set apart for that reason. Concerning the ungodly, he is one that does not walk, sit or stand in their counsel nor submits to their ways. He is separated.
Proverbs 18:1 Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.
The blessing can only come when the person has been removed from other persons that will hinder the flow of blessings. Then there must be a separation within the man. He must give up those habits or ideas that will not allow the blessings to be channeled to him. Indeed he must die to himself and be alive to Christ. He must completely abandon himself; his desires, his way of thinking, his own reasoning and trust completely in the living God.

Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
3:6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
3:7 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.

2007-04-11T23:57:00.000-05:00

Death To The Self-Life

So. I have been looking at, for the face of Jesus. It has been my prayer that I be more like Him. Mat 16:24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.

In order to be like Christ the self must die. My likes and dislikes, my wants, must die. My joy is to please Him. My pleasure is His joy.

Psalm 37:4 Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
5 Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.

2007-04-10T22:49:00.000-05:00

My Mobile Life

This means more than just life on the go. It actually means my life must move in any direction the Lord leads. Which makes me need to trust him more. Job said (13:15) Though He slay me, yet will I trust him. This is my desire to honor the Lord Jesus with my life. To the praise of His glory!

Me

2007-04-05T00:39:00.001-05:00

Me. I am a 34 year old man. Born of Adam, born in sin, called of God. Jesus loved me with a love that exceeds human reasoning. I am elected, predestined to be not only a child but a son of God. Seeking to be well pleasing not just used by God.

All who die without Christ will die for eternity... John 3:16