From: PENDITA@aol.com
Date: Tue, 25 Jun 2002 09:14:45 EDT
Subject: The Church 1   
To: PENDITA@aol.com
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                                  THE CHURCH                                 1

THE EKKLESIA, A HIGH CALLING. 
Jesus said; I will build my church. He is the architect and the builder. The process is continuing, even today. The church, His building will soon be completed. Mt. 16:18 

He addressed His words to Peter {Gr. Petros, a detached stone. one that might easily be thrown or removed}. Jesus gave him the name, Cephas {An Aramaic word} with the same meaning. A stone. John 1:42 

It was not the intent of the Lord Jesus to appoint Peter as the foundation or the foundation stone of the church. He well knew the strengths and weaknesses of Peter. He understood that Peter under pressure would deny Him. He likewise knew that Peter would become a man of strength and courage. 

UPON THIS ROCK, PETRA. 
A rock immovable. Craggy or a mountain peak. Rightly fitted to become the foundation of the church. Mt. 16:18 

This is the rock against which the gates of hell will not prevail. This is the church TRIUMPHANT.


THE SYMBOL OF THE ROCK IN RELATIONSHIP TO JESUS.
HE IS THE REJECTED STONE. The type and symbol relevant to the Lord Jesus must bear the imprint of His rejection. His own race rejected Him and were unwilling to receive Him. John 1:11 

Jesus mentioned the <rejected stone" and thereby made it to be appropriate to this study of the stone. Mt. 21:42 

It was to become the most important stone in the building of the Lord. The Lord does not choose after the ways of men. Often He has used that which was the least, for His purposes. The account is one from the life of Jacob. Jacob went out from Beersheba {the well of the oath}. 

Jesus went out of the presence of His Father. The God of the oath. Jacob went toward Haran {parched, or dry, desert}. Jesus came into this spiritually dry, barren, parched world seeking a wife as was Jacob. Gen. 28:10 


A STONE USED AS A PILLOW. 
Seemingly not a comfortable choice but in this case an excellent one. He dreamed a spiritual dream. He saw the Lord. Gen. 28:12 

Now what had been promised to his grandfather and to his father was confirmed to him. The promise of the covenant was no longer something that had been told him by his father, now it was his very own. The Lord had validated it to him. We may well tell our children of the Lord and raise them up with Christian virtues but they must have a spiritual experience for themselves in order to know the Lord. Upon awakening Jacob declared that awesome place to be the "gateway to the house of God". Gen. 28:17 

The pillow became a pillar or an altar a place of worship. He anointed the stone. Christ the anointed one. Jacob renamed the place and called it Bethel {the house of El or God} The gate of heaven. Gen. 28:19 

He later used the name Bethel-Elohim {Gods house}. v. 22 He promised to tithe all that the Lord gave to him. Tithing was before the Law! Jesus is the way, the truth the life, the door. There is no other way. He is heavens door.




                THE CHURCH                                 2

CHRIST THE STONE, THE ROCK OF THE LORD. 
The message of Peter was Christ the rejected stone. A declaration of this kind and at this time would strike home in the heart of those who heard it. The crucifixion of the Lord and the condemnation of their wrong doing would still have been very fresh in their memory and hearts. Acts 4:11 

Peter was quoting from Ps. 118:22 

In the mouth of two or three witnesses every word is established. The esteem, the value of the stone is to be found in the words of Peter. The establishment, the laying of the stone is the work of the Lord. "I, lay", the Lords doing. The stone is to originate and be found in Zion, the people of the Lord to whom Christ came to minister. He was to be and is to the church, "the chief corner stone". That which is of prime importance. 1 Pet. 2:6  

The spiritual Temple of the Lord is founded on the WORD. The prophets "the Old Testament" and the Apostles "the New Testament" with Jesus Christ being that all important "Chief Corner Stone". Eph. 2:20 

He is also called " the head of the corner" or the capstone. He is of prime importance to the establishment of the House of the Lord. Mt. 21:42 


THE CHARACTER AND CALLING OF THE STONE. 
The Lord Jesus is the ELECT of his Father. The one selected to do His will. The chosen, the choice on, the one most favored. None could have been closer to the heart of the Father. 1 Pet. 2:4,6 

How will we ever comprehend the depth of the sacrifice made by Christ for our salvation or the emotions of the Father as He forsook Jesus at Calvary. Mt. 27:46 

The stone most PRECIOUS. Of greatest value. Honored and exalted above all beings or stones. The only stone of salvation. Fall upon it and be broken or it will break you. An either or decision must be made. Lk. 20:18 

Those who believe are saved. The doubter, the disobedient stumble on the stone, why, because it is the WORD. They therefore are judged, having been appointed to such a condemnation. 1 Pet. 2:7-8 


THE PARABLE OF THE WISE AND FOOLISH BUILDERS. 
A proper foundation is a must, a necessity for any building. How much more a spiritual building. The man reading the blue print and properly founding the house on "THE ROCK" is the man of wisdom. He is the one who hears the Word and acts upon it. 

Rains, winds and floods cannot move that house, it is built upon the ROCK. He took the time and the effort to do that which his instructions told him to do. The man who refuses to build properly, who does his own thing, refusing to hear the instructions of the Word, will lose his house when the tempest comes. Everything is swept away. Mt. 7:24-27 

The ways of the Lord are so simple. What He requires and desires of us is not hidden. Meet His requirements and gain eternal life. Disregard, refuse them and perish. That stone, today, is a stone of salvation. Tomorrow, it could be the stone of judgment. What is it to you?       



                     THE CHURCH       3

A PURCHASED CHURCH. 
The prized possession of the Lord. The love of His heart. The apple of His eye. That which it required Him His life and blood to acquire. So valuable, that there are special instructions to the leadership of the church. The Holy Ghost has appointed them to be Bishops, Overseers, or Shepherds of the flock. FEED, feed the sheep of the Lord. Acts 20:28 

Jesus gave special and emphatic instructions to Simon Peter, to feed His sheep. John 21:15-17 

The responsibility of a Shepherd must be because of the call of the Lord. It is not a position that is to be taken lightly. Not of necessity or constraint but because of a willingness of the heart to fulfill His will. Not because of finances, not because of greed 
or filthy lucre, but from a heart that wants to serve the Lord. Again the instructions are to FEED the flock of God. Feed them the WORD of the Living Lord. 1 Pet. 5:2 

Likewise, they must recognize that they are dealing with and ministering to the heritage of the Lord. They are HIS sheep, not ours. The ministry has not been appointed to lord it over the sheep, but to set an example in spiritual things for the sheep to follow. 1 Pet. 5:2


THE GREATEST LOVE EVER. 
The love of Christ for His church cannot be surpassed nor will it ever be. His love is majestic. His love is absolute and perfect. He deals with us as individuals in salvation but the vision and goal, the ultimate of His work is the church. Which is composed of individuals who are glorified with the full glory of the Lord, perfectly unified into a body made like unto Himself. He loved the church, and gave Himself FOR IT. Eph. 5:25 

The church is admonished to walk in the same love that Christ displayed. He willingly gave, sacrificed Himself for us. Calvary would never have happened had Christ not committed Himself to be the Savior of the world and in particular the church. Eph. 5:2 

Things that are corruptible, perishable cannot be used to redeem. The gifts and sacrifices of the Law were all perishable items. Religious behavior and practices are in vain. Only the PRECIOUS BLOOD of Christ, shed in that great act of His love for us, can redeem. 1 Pet. 1:18-19 

His blood was uncontaminated and incorruptible for it was the very blood of God Himself. Blood originates from the Father. He was without fault or sin. He loved even unto death and that an ignominious death of shame and reproach. The death of a criminal. In the whole of His life He was without sin or deceit. The sinless, the pure, the holy one was so filled with love that He was willing to bear the reproach of our sin. 1 Pet. 2:22 

He looked beyond that moment and saw a people who would so appreciate His work of salvation that they would commit their lives fully and completely to Him. A nation who would not die in their sins, but would die unto sin in order for the life of Christ to be lived in them. Those who would live righteously in that new life that was purchased for them. 1 Pet. 2:24  

What a beautiful switch, Jesus became what we are that we might become what He is. That is the most valuable exchange that could be made, or that has ever been made.  




                     THE CHURCH      4

IT IS CALLED, THE HOUSE OF GOD. 
The church of the living God. Not a physical building but a spiritual house, family or assemblage. Its members are born, filled and led by the Spirit of God. This house is to be one house comprising many individuals but built together into one unit. It is the pillar, or strength and the foundation of truth. 1 Tim. 3:15 

The church within the church. Not all who are in the church will be in the Bride. The contents of a great house, the house of the Lord is by all means the greatest house of all. However, the contents of that house are a mixed multitude. There are stones or participants who are of gold and silver. Therefore they are honorable vessels and fit for the masters use. There are also those who are accounted to being wood and earth and are considered to dishonorable or ignoble. 2 Tim. 2:20 

The challenge is to be separated, be cleansed from the dishonorable. Become a vessel of honor, a sanctified, holy vessel which may be useful to the Master, prepared to fulfill His will in every fashion possible. There are two classes found in the house of the Lord. We, ourselves determine which class we are by our consecration. 2 Tim. 2:21 

The same theme is found spoken by the Prophet Jeremiah when he said: What is the chaff to the wheat? Jer. 23:28 The problem was that there were prophets whom the people followed that were false prophets. Dreamers that told false dreams and so misled the people. The chaff is of importance to the wheat. It protects and contains the wheat. Not until harvest time is there a separation. Then it is drastic. The wheat and the chaff are beaten and separated one from the other. There is a winnowing process that is applied. The wind (spirit) blows the chaff from the wheat and is discarded, sometimes burned or used for some minor purpose. At any rate it is the wheat that is desired and of value. The wheat is the WORD and is to be declared faithfully. The Word does not fail or pass away. The great house will be cleansed from every impurity and brought to perfection. 


THE HOUSE OF CHRIST. 
As Moses had his house, so Christ, as the Son of God is head of His house. We are that house, IF we retain our confidence {outspokenness, frankness or assurance. Strong}, in Him. There can be no wavering or vacillating in our rejoicing or glorying in Him. There must be a strong Spiritual emphases maintained constantly, unto the end. Heb. 3:6 

Those who are a part of this house are citizens of the heavenly. They live in full agreement one with another. There are no second class citizens found here. They are saints and true members of the household of God. Eph. 2:19 

They are "built" by the carpenters son. Eph. 2:20 

They are His workmanship, the labor and product of His hands. Created to be a people of good works which God has determined that we should walk in them. Exemplifying the Life of Christ. Eph. 2:10 We are also the field of God as well as being the building of God. The true church is the results of His labor and is the building that He is building for His occupancy. 1 Cor. 3:9




                THE CHURCH                                      5

THE CHURCH OF THE FIRSTBORN. 
A select group throughout the Word of God. The Church (Heb. 12:23), like Israel (Ex.4:22), called the firstborn therefore they were to receive special treatment and be released from Egypt. Most certainly the church is to be free from all that Egypt portrays. The firstborn were to be a special, set apart, segment of Israel for the Lord said: "it is mine". Whether animal or mankind the first born male was that which the Lord claimed. Ex. 13:2 

The firstborn son of the Israelite was to inherit a double portion of the riches of his Father. Spiritually, the double portion represents the fullness of the blessing of the Lord on the church of the last days. We are to receive of His fullness. John 1:16 

The completeness of the Godhead dwells in Christ and the believer reaches fullness of maturity in Christ. Col. 2: 9-10 

The destiny of the church is to be conformed to the very image and likeness of the Lord Jesus. In order that Jesus might be the first of the firstborn. The first one of many of His brethren who would be like Him. Rom. 8:29 


CHRIST IS THE FIRSTBORN OF EVERY CREATURE. 
Christ is foremost, over all, greater than all. He is the supreme creature, the head and leadership over and above all creation. Col. 1:15 

His position, predetermined by God was to be higher than all the kings of the earth.  Ps. 89:27 

It is well that we remember that He is superior to and rules the angelic realm. They are to praise and worship Him, for He is above them. Heb. 1:6 

Christ Jesus is the head of the church. He is also the beginning of that eternal race which the Lord will raise up in the first resurrection. He is the firstborn from the dead, the example, the leader. In all things the first place, the leadership, the preeminence is His. Christ is all and in all. Col. 1:18 


HIS CHURCH IS TO SHARE EQUAL RIGHTS WITH HIM. 
Because the Spirit of the Lord witnesses in our spirit that we have been born of Him and are His children we therefore are heirs. Heirs of all that the Lord is and likewise, though of less significance, heirs of all that He possesses. 

Possessions are insignificant when compared to gaining Christ. All that the Lord is, all that heaven and eternity will be is to be shared and shared alike with those who are His children. We are to be coheirs with the Lord Jesus. In His amazing generosity it is His intent and purpose He will make us to be like Himself. We are to inherit the fullness of the Lord. Rom. 8:16-17 

Let us not lose sight of the fact that in Christ both Jew and Gentile are to be mad one in Christ. There are no differences in the work that the Lord accomplishes in the heart of mankind. We are all new creatures in Christ, regardless of our origins. Eph. 3:6 

The Lord looks upon all of mankind as sinners needing a savior and is rich toward all with His salvation. The only item of value in Christ is to be a new creature. The Lord is not willing that any should perish but that all men would come to a knowledge of sins forgiven and the power of the new birth.



                  THE CHURCH                                  6

ALL MEMBERS OF THE SAME BODY. 
Not a work of a human organization but an accomplishment of the Spirit of the living God. That which is impossible with man is possible with the Lord. Eph. 3:6 

A body having a multiplicity of members. Each member having their own function in the body but all belonging to the body and to one another. Acting in unison that the will of the Lord might be consummated. The beauty and majesty of such an organism is astonishing. But the Lord will bring it to pass. Rom. 12:4-5 

If, indeed the Word of God is achieved in His church it is because of the Spirit of unity that is the nature and being of the Holy Spirit. Plus the fact, that every member of the body of Christ has been baptized, by the Spirit, into the one body. Likewise, we continue to allow the Spirit to operate in our spirit. Being motivated and fed by the Spirit. 1 Cor. 12:13 

So closely associated and knit together is that body, that when one member enters into a period of suffering all the other members of the body follow in close participation. In like manner, if a member is given a commendation or is honored in some way, the other members follow in their rejoicing. 1 Cor. 12:27 

The Godhead, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, the very essence of unity and harmony will function in the church until such a glorious symphony and oneness will come to pass. There is only one church for the end of the age, neither yours, not mine but HIS! It is His body, His church and it will be totally devoted to Him.


UNITY IN FAITH AND KNOWLEDGE. 
One in doctrine and one in comprehension of the Lord. This is His goal and we may be assured that His purposes will all reach their fruition. The Holy Spirit came into this world to lead us and teach us all truth. It is He, who will bring us into maturity and unity. He WILL procure the objective that has been established for the church. He will bring the church to its divine appointments and perfection. Eph. 4:13 


CURRENT INSTRUCTIONS OF THE SPIRIT FOR THE CHURCH. 
Cease from being infants, spiritual babies. Straight forward words from the Apostle but very fitting for our day. The raging of a storm is the language that he is using and the tossing to and fro of an object carried by the sea. Drifting aimlessly, thrown hither and yon. 

Changing beliefs, changing churches, ever restless as the sea. Easily offended, easily persuaded. No anchor no sure direction, ever drifting carelessly. Winds of doctrine, cunning craftiness used by men to snare these floating objects. Hucksters manipulating and persuading these naive, uninformed Christians who are always looking for the spectacular, the extreme and strange signs and wonders. Eph. 4:14 

It is well that we hear the teaching of the Word pertaining to these who will come in the end of the age. If it were possible, even the very elect will be deceived. Follow Jesus. Adhere to His Word. Truth and the knowledge of the Lord will prevail. We are more than conquerors through Christ Jesus our Lord.   




                    THE CHURCH                                  7

A WORD OF WARNING TO THE CHURCH. 
The sleight of hand or manipulation of unscrupulous men whose purpose is to deceive. Accomplished by negating established principles. Eph. 5:14 

The warnings of the Word of God, if heeded, are ample to keep the church from being misled. False prophets, in Old Testament times were dealt with promptly and sternly. The sentence of death was pronounced on the presumptuous false prophet, or the one whose prophecy did not come to pass. Deut. 18:20

Jesus warned us that there would be many or a great number of false prophets who would have the ability to perpetrate deception upon many or again a great number of individuals. Mt. 24:11 

How may we know or judge the difference between that which is true and that which is false? A comparison with the WORD of GOD is a sure way. Another test is the accuracy of that prophecy. Did it come to pass? If not, then that person who has prophesied is a false prophet and should no longer be received or heard as a prophet. Obviously, the Lord had not spoken to them. Eze.13:7-8


THE WORDS OF THE LORD JESUS TO THE CHURCH. 
A coming to the forefront of "spurious Christs". Definitely not one, but a number who will rise up and declare themselves to be the Christ. This prophetic word of the Lord Jesus is in existence today. There are already "pseudo Christs" in activity in our world. Along with these are also the false prophets of whom there are a great number. Their presence is often extremely charismatic. They will be persons of magnetic personality and strong persuasive ways and mannerism. Individuals who appeal, through their natural capabilities, to all segments of society. Perhaps more damaging than their personalities is their skill in producing mighty lying signs and wonders. Mt. 24:24 

The ability for those involved in the powers of darkness and their abilities is demonstrated in the visit of Moses before Pharaoh. The rod of Moses became a serpent when cast down. The rods of the necromancers likewise became serpents by the powers of darkness. But, the rod of Moses consumed the fake serpents. Ex. 7:10-12 

What a beautiful type of Jesus, the rod. Becoming a serpent Jn. 3:14 (or sin) on the cross. Then being raised again to become eternally the rod, completely destroying sin, death and the grave}. The waters turned to blood were also duplicated, this did not help the Egyptian cause. It only made their misery greater. Ex. 7:17-21 

The same is true of the plague of frogs wrought by Aaron, the magicians could not destroy them, only increase them to their own plight. Ex. 8:6-7 

The scene is duplicated with the judgment of lice over the whole land. Ex. 8:16-18 

False spirits and false powers can only add to the misery of those who fall under their influence. We do not follow signs, wonders or miracles. They are to follow the individual that has faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. For Jesus said; these signs shall follow them that believe. We do not follow demonstrations, but when we believe there will demonstrations of the power of the Lord. Mark 16:17  




                THE CHURCH                            8

THE SPIRITUAL HOUSE, HIS HOUSE. 
It is called a Spiritual House because it is in the area of that which is Divine. A building that is eternal, everlasting. A structure of beauty and majesty. Built of "lively stones", persons who have been brought into eternal life through the Lord Jesus. They possess everlasting life, therefore this is a permanent building. This is the HOUSE OF THE LORD. 1 Pet. 2:5 

The House of the Lord has a firm foundation. One that has been established by the Master builder. There are no flaws to be found in it. That secure footing is the WORD which was brought to us by the prophets {the Old Testament} and the Apostles {the New Testament}, with Christ as the supreme corner stone. Eph. 2:20


THE INDWELLING SPIRIT OF GOD WILL DEFINE THE TEMPLE OF GOD. 
The building of the temple of the Lord is in current process by of the Holy Spirit. What a great privilege and responsibility to have the Holy Spirit indwelling our spirit and body. This is not a light thing and should not be treated so, in any way. It a grievous thing to see or hear of anything that pertains to the Holy Spirit treated in a frivolous manner. The Holy Spirit is not a toy nor a joy trip. He is heavenly Royalty and must be treated with the utmost respect. 1 Cor. 3:16 

To submit oneself to the indwelling presence of the Spirit must be an act of total surrender. He now, desires to direct and discipline His temple according to His will. We have committed our complete man to the Holy Spirit and we are no longer our own, but we belong fully to the Lord. 1 Cor. 6:19 

The Church is defined as the temple of the living God, so it is composed of lively stones, stones of activity, not dead or dormant. His promise is that He will live in His temple. This for the now, as well as the eternity to come. He will also walk in His temple. This will impose certain requirements on those who are the stones of His temple, for there are some activities in which He will not involve Himself. A list is given in 1 Cor. 6:14-16. 

The call and work of the Spirit and the Word will be a separation from all that is unclean and impure, IN HIS SIGHT.


A PILLAR, A STALWART IN THE TEMPLE OF THE LORD. 
To be a pillar is to indicate the permanence of the position granted by the Lord. This is the assurance of those who overcome, those who are triumphant. They will be inscribed with the NAME of the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

The name of the eternal, the living God will also be written on the New Jerusalem. This is His City, the one and only Holy City, there is none other. Then, gloriously, the new name of Jesus will be written upon her, the church, the New Jerusalem, the bride of Christ. Rev. 3:12 

His NAME was given Him of His Father who highly exhalted Him. Phil. 2:9 

ALL SHALL BOW AT HIS NAME. All will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of the Father. Phil. 2:10-11. 

We are granted the right to bear His name, now. For his temple will bear His name eternally. His name written on His temple indicates that it is His possession. Is His name written on you? The Bride, dearly loves His name and will take His name to be hers.




                    THE CHURCH                                  9

CERTIFYING THE INDWELLING PRESENCE OF CHRIST. 
An open gate, an open heart, essential to the presence of Christ in the life of the believer. His desire to enter is verified by the rapping and the voice at the door, the voice seeking entrance. The promise, to permission granted is that of eating together. Feeding and feasting on the Word of the Lord. Rev. 3:20 

The opening, the entrance, the disclosure of the Word is that which illuminates. Ps. 119:130 

Participating in the true communion table of the Lord will assure one of the glorious, powerful presence of the Lord, dwelling within. How important it is to participate with a proper spirit, knowing that we are right with the Lord. John 6:56 The essential quality of obtaining the high and holy privilege of the presence of the Lord dwelling within us is also based on LOVE. In order to really understand what love is, we must first of all be partakers of HIS love. 

Then and only then may we be able to distinguish between natural love and spiritual love, or the love of God. The Lord has poured forth into our hearts that mighty love by the power of the Holy Ghost. Are we Spirit filled? Accompanying that anointing was a baptism of love. He will help us, even to love the unlovely. Rom. 5:5 

The very nature, the being, the essence, the character, all that the Lord is, is made known in LOVE. He is the beginning, the heart, the manifestation of a love that exceeds all love. There is no example of human love that begins to compare to the person who is LOVE. 

GOD IS LOVE. Love is what He is. Love is who He is. Love is what He is all about. If we dwell in that Love then that Love dwells with us, literally, fully, completely. We become what He is, when He dwells within. 1 John 4:16 

Behold I stand at the door and knock. Welcome, Lord Jesus. Verification of our love for Him is found in our obedience to His Word. Willingness to fulfill His will and to follow His teaching is evidence of our love for Him and brings blessed results. This assures one of the love of the Father and the abiding presence of the Godhead, for Jesus said WE will come and make OUR abode with Him. Jn. 14:23


JESUS PRAYED FOR HIS CHURCH. His prayer contains the feeling of His heart for His followers to be one. One in purpose, heart, mind and greatest of all LOVE. His anticipation of that unity was that it would follow the example of the Triunity, perfect, absolute accord. This becomes a testimony and witness to the world. John 17:21 

The power and glory that is afforded the church is for one reason and that too is, "that they may be one, even as we are one". John 17:22 

Amazing, astonishing church in whom dwells the fullness of all that the Lord is. A people washed and perfected by the Word and the Holy Ghost. Blended and bonded together by possessing and walking in the Love of God. John 17:23 

What a blessed day when the Lord will consummate His grand and glorious work on behalf of and in the church, His living temple. Because He has declared it shall be, so it will be, beyond a shadow of doubt.

      


                THE CHURCH                                    10

WHAT IS THE ADDRESS OF THE LORD? 
Where does He live? Who is able to build Him a house or a temple? Inasmuch as the universe is not vast enough to contain Him or to be His dwelling place. 2 Chr. 2:6 

Will God indeed dwell on the earth? 1 King 8:27 

The Lord has declared that heaven is His throne. Therefore that is the place of His dwelling. It is the creation of the Lord Himself. It is His possession. Gen. 14:19 

Heaven is the source of His salvation. Likewise, His abundant love and the living Word of the Lord. Ps. 57:3 

There is absolutely no escape from His presence. He is indeed, Omnipresent, If there is an outer edge or ultimate of the universe, He is there. There is no escaping the presence of the true and living Lord. Ps. 139:8 

He is everywhere present at one and the same time because He is God over all. Paul said; "For in Him we live, and move, and have our being". He is the source of life, all life, all that there is to life originates and is continued by Him. 

Our ability to participate in daily activities is because He supplies the necessities for life to continue here on earth. Our existence, our being, revolves around Him and Him alone. He is merciful to all and extends not only natural life but spiritual eternal life to all who will accept His gracious offer. Acts 17:28   

 
HEAVEN IS A PLACE AND EXISTS NOW. 
Jesus stated that He was going to the Fathers house to prepare a "place-topos or topography". His intent and purpose is to include you, the whosoever, in that glorious Throne presence of our savior and redeemer. He is coming again, soon, to receive unto Himself the redeemed of all ages. That He might take them to that marvelous, eternal presence of His Father.  John. 14:2-3 

Perhaps we can be more sure of Heaven as a literal place if we consider this globe upon which we have been privileged to live. THE FOOTSTOOL, a necessary part of the Throne. It is identified as being this earth on which we are living today. Isa.66:1 

Again, in the Spirit inspired message of Stephen, he affirmed the fact of the earth being the footstool of God. Acts 7:49 

The question is then presented as to where the house of the Lord might be built. Or where is the place "topos" of My REST. Where will he dwell in the eternity and when will His work cease that he might enter into His rest? His rest is in the Bride of Christ, the Temple, the dwelling place of the Most High.  The true Zion of the Lord, the New Jerusalem is destined to become the resting place or the abiding place of the Lord, eternally. Ps. 132:14 

Certainly, this footstool is not the place of His rest. The earth, his footstool is to become the place of judgment for all of His enemies. Mt. 22:44 

In the mean time we will make this footstool the very tabernacle of the Most High and will worship Him. Ps. 132:7 

His presence is here, on His footstool and where His presence is, so is His holiness and righteousness. Therefore, we will worship and adore Him as long as we are permitted to live on this earth. Ps. 99:5   




                   THE CHURCH                             11

THE TRUE HABITATION OF THE LORD. 
It is an astonishment to realize, that for all the Lord is, it is His divine goal to dwell in His Temple, His people, a perfected church. The Omnipresent one is preparing His church for occupation by none other than Himself. He has commissioned us to be coworkers with Him in completing the edifice of His habitation. 1 Cor. 3:9 

The area in which this work is being done is called, the field, the farm, the husbandry of God. The field is identified as this world in which we live. In the field there are two kinds of seed, one profitable, the other of no profit. 

The good seed and the bad are destined to be harvested and separated in the end of the age. The field belongs to the Lord. From His field the good seed will be received and His harvest will be completed. The righteous will shine as the sun {Rev. 12:1} in His kingdom. Mt. 13:38-43 


CHRIST IS THE ARCHITECT OF THE ETERNAL TEMPLE. 
Chosen, anointed and appointed by Christ is the fivefold ministry. These individuals have the distinct responsibility of leading the church of these last days to the perfection that is the destination of the church. Eph. 4:11-12 

The church, fitly framed together. A unity that exceeds any construction ever seen on earth. A blending into one unit. A union, a oneness that defies description that can only be attained by the anointing of the Spirit. Growth, an evidence that this temple is a vital, living organism that will be the holy temple of the Lord.  Eph. 2:21 

Holiness is explicitly required of each member of the body of Christ which is to form His Bride. The temple of the Lord is holy. If it is not so, then the Lord cannot occupy His temple. 1 Cor. 3:17 

Holiness beautifies the house of the Lord. It is the adornment of the temple. Ps. 93:5


THE SPIRITUAL HABITATION OF THE LORD. 
The Apostle John was a great proponent of the "abiding presence of the Lord" in His people. The Lord has established a standard that is required of those who would know the blessing of His abiding presence. Obedience to His commandments or His Word is an outstanding need and indeed may be stated as the first and most outstanding. 

This is a sign of the intertwining of His being and nature with ours, changing the dead human spirit into a living Christ like Spirit. The evidence of this accomplishment is the fact that His Spirit is given to us. It is only by the person of the Holy Spirit that He can abide in us. Making us the Temple of the Lord. 1 John 3:24 

The ability to live the Christian life as the Lord would have us live it necessitates the abiding presence of the Holy Ghost. We are in the Spirit and not manifesting the acts of the flesh when He is guiding our lives. If we do not have the "Spirit of Christ" then He must deny that we are his and proclaim that we do not belong to Christ. Hard, perhaps difficult words, yet they are the Word of the Lord. Rom. 8:9

He, the Holy Spirit is known as the Spirit of truth which is expressive of His trait, His attribute, His character. There is no untruth to be found in Him. He is absolute truth. He dwells with us and lives within. Surely His presence will influence our lives to buy the truth and sell it not. John 14:17 




                                        THE CHURCH                         12

THE WORK OF THE HUSBANDMAN. 
The planting of the Lord is that which is eternal and indestructible. Every plant and tree must have its roots, so the root of the tree of life is the Lord Jesus. Rev. 22:16 

The root of our spiritual life must be the Lord Jesus. We are to be rooted in Him. The root speaks of strength, stability and sustenance. These elements are the life force of the tree. Col. 2:7 

We are one with the tree when Christ dwells within, for we are rooted and grounded in love, His love abounding in our hearts. Eph. 3:17 

Love for Him, and more importantly love for one another. If we cannot love our brother whom we associate with, some on a daily basis, how can we love God, whom we have not seen? 1 John 4:20 

The person who trusts and believes the Lord is likened to a tree drawing its life from the its root planted by the river. The leaves of the tree do not wither when heat or problems arise but maintain their life giving process of photosynthesis. 

A dry season, a drought will not cause difficulties for the source of life giving waters is secure. The tree remains fruitful regardless of circumstances. It maintains its purpose for existence, always fruitful.Jer. 17:8 

Spiritual life, like this tree will be tried and tested. We do not always maintain the same spiritual level of joy and gladness. The mountain top experience. There are valleys and dark places that must be traversed, but if the Lord is our hope, He is also our stay. 

There will be problems, there will be testing, there will be dry places. In all these the tree maintains its life and fruitfulness. We are that tree and these are those things that every one of us must face on the road to perfection.  


THE HUSBANDMAN CARES FOR HIS VINE. 
Jesus made it plain that He is the vine and that we are the branches. How blessed we are to have His strength and life giving sustenance flowing through our lives. To ABIDE in Him is the key to the Christian life. We cannot exist, spiritually apart from Him. To ABIDE, is to remain steadfastly in Him.  John 15:4 

Making Him our continuous dwelling place and to allow Him complete access to our hearts by the Spirit and the Word. Consistent commitment to Him a high Spiritual standard will assure us of the glorious presence of the living God, in His fullness. His promise is that we shall continue in the Son and in the Father. 1 John 2:24 

There is no existence apart from the vine. The branches are fruitless when separated from the vine. John 15:4-5 If the life flow is broken and the branch becomes fruitless it is pruned from the vine and rejected. They are then gathered and cast into the fire and are destroyed. How terse and final sounding. 

v. 6 Beautiful promise based on our abiding in the WORD, and the Word abiding in us, we then may ask what we will and it shall come to pass. 

v. 7 The sign of discipleship is the fact that one continues to abide in His Spirit and presence. v. 8 It is indeed, Christ in you the hope of glory. Col. 1:27




                   THE CHURCH                               13

THE GIFT OF HIMSELF TO HIS CHURCH. 
Not only did Christ give Himself on Calvary but He is constantly giving to His church. The supreme and ultimate gift will be the fullness of Himself. His goal is a church precisely and in every way like Himself. There is no other way for the church, which is called "His body" to be His body. His body, must and will be filled with His Spirit, for He was. Mt. 3:16-17. 

After being crucified His body was raised from the grave, or quickened by the Spirit. He is now, far beyond the possibility of any of the things common to man, such as sin, sickness or death having any effect on Him. Never again will He face these elements of this life. He has borne it all for us, taking our place on the cross, that we might be like Him, in every aspect. 1 Pet. 3:18 

The effect of the cross is far more powerful than just the forgiveness of our sin as glorious and wonderful as that is. We have been QUICKENED TOGETHER with Him. That means, that as the great shepherd, He enfolded us in His arms and carried us with Himself in all the demonstration of His death, burial and resurrection. We are one with Him. We have been quickened {to reanimate conjointly with, Him. (Strong)} as one, with Christ. Eph. 2:5 

We are well aware of a future resurrection for those in Christ Jesus. It is called the First Resurrection. However, the scriptures contain a promise that is available to us NOW. The true church will lay hold of His promises and see them fully consummated. His covenant, now in execution, is that which is
available to us. For He "HATH raised us up together". 

The glorious power of the resurrected Christ is ours today. Not only in the future, in a perfected church but NOW. If we have been saved by His blood. If we have been filled with His Spirit. If we are living and walking with Him, then the life giving power of Christ is being made manifest in us. If we are sitting in heavenly places in Christ Jesus, and we are, according to His word, all the benefits of that heavenly kingdom are at work in our soul and spirit, at this present time. Eph. 2:6


THE EVIDENCE OF HIS RESURRECTION AT WORK IN THE CHURCH.
The object of our affections will display and give evidence to the power of His resurrection at work in us. The heart will seek after those things that are spiritual and not the things of this world. Our minds will think on those things which are heavenly. Christ must be the very core of our desires and love. Our lives are now His and have found an abiding place that is heavenly and eternal. When we are IN HIM, then our life is HIS LIFE. Living His life means that we are free from sin, sickness and disease. Col. 3:1-3 

We are set at liberty from the forces of evil that control the ungodly. Now, we live by the Spirit of life that is found in the Lord Jesus. Completely set free from that which formerly controlled our lives. Liberated from the law of sin and death. There is no limit to the achievements of the law of the Spirit.
Filled, absolute victory is ours in Christ. Rom. 8:2




                                        THE CHURCH                       14

THE COMPLETION OF THE BODY OF CHRIST. 
The church will be separated from all impurities and then integrated into the planned, (from the beginning),  as the Bride of His creation. She is that which the Lord has called and prepared to complete the body of Christ. She is the most excellent work of His hands, that He might be complete and consummated. Eph. 1:23 

As it was with the first man, Adam. It was not good for him to be alone. Gen. 2:18 So it will be with the last Adam, the Lord Jesus Christ.  1 Cor. 15:45 She will be brought into being by the Spirit of the Lord. As a companion, a friend, a lover and a Bride that will a Wife unto Him. 

She is that which will complement the Lord Jesus for she will bear His likeness and character. She is His gift unto Himself, two majestic, eternal entities married and molded together as one. Eph. 5:23


A BRIDE OF FULL AND COMPLETE CONSECRATION. 
Her commitment is totally unto Christ. There is none other in her eyes and emotions. She lives for Christ, and for Him alone. He is all and in all to her. Their love, one for another is perfect and of the highest order. Col. 3:11 

The feeling of love that exists between Christ and His Church is beyond the capability of men to comprehend, it passes knowledge. Producing the result of the Bride being filled with all the fullness of the Godhead. This will cause her to be exactly what He is in His fullness. "Filled to the measure of all the fullness of God". NIV. Eph. 3:19 

Christ took upon Himself the form of man. He is the "PHYSICAL", natural, earthly body of very God Himself. It was the good pleasure of the Father (who is Spirit. Jn. 4:24) to dwell in the physical body of His Son. Like wise the Holy Spirit abode in Christ. All fullness, the complete being of who and what God is was in Christ. Col. 1:19 

Therefore. Jesus was able to make statements such as; "My Father and I are one" John 10:30 

This statement must not be misconstrued into saying that they are one and the same person, for they are not. However, there was perfect, absolute harmony in the Godhead, whether in heaven or on earth, or in the physical body of Jesus. Jesus prayed that the amalgamation of the body of Christ, the church would be equal to that of
the Triunity. Thank the Lord it will be. John 17:22 

Remember, the example of this unity is one we live with every day. We too, are triune, body, soul and spirit. In Christ Jesus the fullness of the living God, the Godhead, the Triunity of God, took up His abode. Col. 2:9 

Surely, God was in Christ. 2 Cor. 5:19 The church is to reach completion or come to maturity in Christ Jesus. As the fullness of God indwells Christ so it is the purpose of the Lord that the Bride reach that same spiritual height and majesty. With Christ as the Head of the body, the church, every power that is His is ours. Col. 2:10 

That includes all power in heaven and earth. There is no limitation placed on the glory and power that He would make known to His church. Greater is He that is within you. The Lord will bring His church to His perfection. Eph. 5:27   




                                  THE CHURCH                        15

THE PROCEDURE FOLLOWED IN PREPARING THE BRIDE. 
There are definite steps that are required in order to be a member of the Bride of Christ. They begin with the New Birth which is primary and fundamental. The New Birth allows one to know and understand that there is a Kingdom of God. John 3:3 

Entrance into the Kingdom is gained by being born of the water and the Spirit. Spiritual life follows the pattern of the natural, inasmuch as water and breath {pneuma, spirit or breath} are required for natural birth. Spiritual birth requires more than just the joining of the Spirit of the Lord with our spirit. Water is also involved in Spiritual birth. Jesus said; "water and Spirit". John 3:5


A BEAUTIFUL TYPE OF WATER AND SPIRIT BAPTISM. 
The Lord led the children of Israel out of Egypt with great manifestation of power. Paul states that their experience was one of being baptized into (NIV} Moses. In the cloud and in the sea. A type of water and Spirit baptism. 1 Cor. 10:2 

Certainly the greatest type is the baptism of the Lord Jesus. John tried to dissuade Jesus from being baptized of John. However the answer that Jesus gave makes evident the importance of water baptism. It is proper to accomplish "all righteousness". Jesus set the perfect example. Mat. 3:15 

Jesus, walking in obedience to water baptism was immediately filled with the Spirit, incidentally the Spirit descended "LIKE" a dove. The Spirit settled down on Him. It was NOT a dove. Mat. 3:16 

Those convicted of their sin on the day of Pentecost anxiously inquired of the way of salvation. The first requirement was repentance, to be sorry for our sins, how very necessary that is. The second step was to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, "FOR THE REMISSION OF SINS", deliverance, freedom or forgiveness of our sins is completed as we are obedient to the WORD. Acts 2:38 

The people who heard this message, received it gladly and were baptized. Their number being some three Thousand. They were convinced of the truth presented to them and acted promptly. Acts 2:41  

Faith and baptism are necessary for salvation. Mark 16:16 

The command given by the Lord  Jesus was not only to teach but to baptize their converts. It is obvious from the scriptures that water baptism is an important act in the process of developing the true church.  Another evidence of the accomplishment of water baptism is found in the words of Ananias to Saul. Saul was exhorted to be baptized in order to "wash his sins away". The physical man, the body, needs a cleansing as well as the spiritual man. Acts 22:16 

So important was the washing of water at the laver in the tabernacle and the temple that if the priest, who would minister, did not wash before entering, he would die. Ex. 30:19 The man of Ethiopia responded immediately to the message brought to him by Philip and requested immediate baptism. Acts 8:36 

In the days of Noah his family of eight were saved by water. We too are saved by water indicating the pledge of a good conscience toward the Lord, by His resurrection. Water baptism is a necessity for the Bride. 1 Pet. 3:21      




                     THE CHURCH                          16

THE GREAT COMMISSION. 
This is a message that is heard by the entire church and is being accomplished in many ways and through many means. But, have we really heard what Jesus said? We are good at discipleship but, how about baptism? Water baptism was to be in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Mt. 28:19 This command would surely be followed by the early church and the disciples, and it was.

Acts 2:38		In the name of		JESUS CHRIST 
Acts 8:12		In the name of		JESUS CHRIST
Acts 8:16		In the name of the	LORD JESUS 
Acts 10:48		In the name of the	LORD
Acts 19:5		In the name of the	LORD JESUS

Were we to treat the above as a mathematical problem we would sum it up to be the LORD JESUS CHRIST. The Apostles, embracing the teachings of the Lord Jesus fulfilled His command to perfection. 


IT MUST BE RECOGNIZED that Father, Son and Spirit are titles not only attributed to the Godhead but also to men. I am a son, a father and I have a spirit, but that is not my name. A name is given as a means of
identity. 

We are known by our name, so with our God. He is not just God, that expresses His being. There are a multiplicity of gods around the world but only one true God. It pleased the Father to bestow upon His Son a name that is greater, higher, above and beyond and more powerful than any name that is named. 

It is the Father's intent that in the ultimate of time, all both living and dead shall bow before Jesus for the purpose of confessing that God, has made Jesus Christ to be Lord. His name was given Him by the Father and the Father is glorified when the name of the Lord Jesus Christ is exalted. Phil. 2:9-11 


THE IMPORTANCE OF HIS NAME TO US. 
All things pertaining to a Christians life should be done in His name. If we cannot invoke His name on our actions then, they would probably be contrary to His will. Col. 3:17 

The power and authority of the Lord is delegated to His followers is in the use of His name. Through His name deliverance is accomplished, devils are cast out and the sick are healed. It is imperative that we recognize that He has bequeathed to His church the right and authority to carry out His ministry in His name. Mark 16:17-18 

Prayer in His name is highly effectual. He has promised that "WHATSOEVER" and "ANY THING" requested in His name He would accomplish. A promise such as this has no end of possibilities. It opens the vast storehouse of the Lord and places it at our disposal. With Him there are no impossibilities. John 14:13-14 

The Holy Spirit is sent by the Father in the name of the Lord Jesus. Our prayers for the presence of the Comforter in our lives must be in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. John 14:26 

His name is wonderful, glorious and majestic.     




                                THE CHURCH                        17

THE WASHINGS OF THE CHURCH. 
The foundational washing upon which all other washings rely is the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. The importance of the precious blood of Christ can never be over emphasized. It is the price of redemption. It is the sprinkled blood of the mercy seat. The sacrifice of forgiveness. He, personally, has washed us from our sins by the sacrifice of Himself on the cross. Rev. 1:5 

We know that we have been washed by His blood when the realization of His forgiveness breaks in upon us. Suddenly we are aware that our conscience is without condemnation. Oh the joy of a conscience free from blame and guilt. The awful burden of the knowledge of having done wrong, the guilt of sin, is now lifted. We are free, free at last and forever. Heb. 9:14


THE WASHING WITH PURE WATER. 
Our bodies washed. The significance of water baptism. This is a means whereby we may draw near unto the Lord. It is an act of faith. An obedience to the Word in fulfilling the will and the commandments of the Lord. Heb. 10:22 

It is also an act of commitment to the death, burial and resurrection of the Lord Jesus. The manifestation of resurrection life cannot be displayed until there has been a death. The Lord is desirous, even eager to display His might powers in His people, but only through those who have died to sin. Water baptism is an identification with the death of Christ. Rom. 6:3 

Therefore, if we are dead with Him, we have died to sin. Sin no longer reigns in our mortal bodies. It no  longer dominates our lives. A dead man cannot sin. Death with Christ means victory over sin. Rom. 6:2 

The old man, the carnal nature, the man of sin and iniquity, the unrighteous man is now united with Christ in His crucifixion and death. The individual who does not enter into this experience with Christ will struggle with the flesh, constantly. Absolute liberty and freedom is found here. Rom. 6:6-7


THE DISPLAY OF POWER IS IN RESURRECTION LIFE. 
We are privileged, yes, called to be like Him in every aspect of His death burial and resurrection life. Many want the display of His life and power without having to participate in His death. That is an impossibility. The blessings of the Lord will not be displayed through carnal vessels. To obtain His likeness we must follow Him in every aspect of His experiences as a man. His life is ours when we meet the requirements. Rom. 6:5 

The blessings and abilities received in total surrender to His will are many. Having been raised with Him we are entitled to enter into His presence, even His throne presence. What more could be desired than to sit at His feet and behold Him. Eph. 2:6 

The benefits of His life displayed in the believer are also made known in the quickening or display of life that is seen in them. It not only involves the spiritual man but the physical as well. The supernatural glory, power and might becomes the life of the believer who walks in Christ. Rom. 8:11         




                   THE CHURCH                         18

NOW YOU ARE CLEAN. 
What marvelous knowledge, to know beyond a shadow of doubt that one is cleansed and made pure. Free from guilt, free from condemnation, free from blame. He whom the Son sets free is free indeed. True freedom from sin is found in Jesus. John 8:36 

The cleansing of the WORD is of great value. It is a progressive cleansing. As the WORD is revealed to us, we submit to it, and are cleansed by our obedience to His will. Jesus but spoke the WORD and His disciples were cleansed. This demonstrates the power of the WORD to sanctify and purify. John 15:3 

The instructions of the Word are sufficient to direct us in the manner in which we should walk before the Lord. Walking in the LIGHT of His Word. There is no sin situation which we face that is not solved by the Word. The truth, the WORD is the force that is able to alter the life style of an individual and turn them toward the Lord. His WORD is truth. Jn. 17:17


THE CHURCH IS A SANCTIFIED BRIDE. 
To be made holy, purified or consecrated to the Lord. This is a description of the work and the results that will form His Bride. Eph. 5:26 

The first born of animal life, whether man or beast was sanctified, consecrated unto the Lord. It was to be exclusively His. Ex. 13:2 

We are called the Church of the FIRSTBORN, the consecrated, the dedicated solely unto the Lord. Heb. 12:23 

His act of redemption was to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Bringing in to being a people who live
in righteousness and purity. Willing and ready to fulfill His will. Titus 2:14 

The New Birth is not the result of corruptible seed, but of that which is incorruptible. The living Word. The eternal, ever abiding Word. 1 Pet. 1:23 

His words are spirit, yet very tangible and readable. His Word brings the life of the Spirit into our lives. Spiritual life is in His word. The Spirit and the Word agree. John 6:63 Agreement with and adherence to the Word will produce holiness.


THE FIRST MAN WAS CREATED IN THE LIKENESS OF THE LORD.
Adam was like God in all his being and personality. The wisdom and knowledge of the Lord was his. He displayed the nature and character of the Lord. He was in the image and likeness of God. Gen. 1:26 

Adam and Eve lived in the presence and holiness of God, in righteousness and purity. His call to the church is one of restoration. His purpose is manifest holiness in His people. His command is to be holy because He is very holiness personified. 1Pet. 1:16 

The Lord seeks those who will commit their body unto Him, rather than to works of unrighteousness. He desires a people who are willing to offer them selves unto Him as instruments of righteousness. Rom. 6:13 When Christ dwells within, the body of flesh is dead to sin and wickedness of any sort. The spirit is living in full accord with the Lord because it is surrendered to the will and purpose of the Lord. They have become a person in whom the righteousness of the Lord is displayed. Rom. 8:10  




                             THE CHURCH                            19

WORTHY OF SERIOUS CONSIDERATION. 
The Lord has declared that when HE rebuilds Zion HE shall appear in His glory. Ps. 102:16 

Is Zion of the flesh or of the Spirit? Is it natural or is it Spiritual? This is what the scripture has to say. The stone of faith. Those believing and placing their trust in this stone will never be confounded nor put to shame. 

The stone of Zion is a stone of intrinsic value. Not only in its position, as the chief corner stone, but also to its person, the Lord Jesus.  The true Zion of God can only be built on that chief corner stone which the Lord Himself has established. 1 Pet.2:6 

Peter well understood that Jesus was the rock upon which He would build His church. A triumphant, glorious church. Mt. 16:18   


TWO ASPECTS OF THE STONE. 
To those who have faith in Christ, the believer, view the stone as having the highest value of all precious stones. A stone worthy of building a whole life and life style upon. To the unbeliever, to this who rejected the stone, it became a stone of stumbling to them. What causes stumbling? Disobedience to the Word. 




                 THE CHURCH   20

    THE ETERNAL, EVERLASTING MOUNT SION. 
There are shadows, types and symbols found throughout the Word of the Lord. Then, there is that reality which is the fulfillment of all that has been foreshadowed. 

The Mount Sion of the book of Hebrews, is the true habitation of the Lord. All that relates to historical mount Zion is to be unconditionally accomplished in the church, the Bride of Christ. 

The emphasis of the Spirit is always placed on that which is Spiritual and not the natural. The Lord has chosen Spiritual Sion to be the place of His everlasting abode. This is the place of His rest and tranquillity. Here He will found His eternal throne. Ps. 132:13-14 

The Lord Himself is the founder and builder of Sion. It is He, who sent forth and established the corner stone. A stone which withstood
the test. The stone of greatest value. 

Those who believe in Christ, that stone, will never be confounded. They are stable, founded on the rock, Christ Jesus. Isa. 28:16 

This is the Mount Sion to which ever believer will come. Heb. 12:22 

It is a great tragedy for all concerned that the attention of the church today is so often focused on the natural and not on the Spiritual. The solution for the natural seed is found in becoming the Spiritual seed.


    THE CITY. 
The true Holy City is that which is the New Jerusalem. This is the city built by the Lord for His own good pleasure. 

THIS IS THE BRIDE. Rev. 21:2 

This is the city of great and excellent beauty. Much more so that any ever created by man. The builder and maker of this New Jerusalem, is God, Himself. It is the center piece of the New Creation, for it is the place that the Lord has chosen for His throne. Ps. 48:2 

This city is a perfect and beautiful edifice to the power of the Lord made manifest in new creatures. The consummation of His work with mankind is this glorious church which will be His Bride. 

The name of the Lord will be upon his city, for the simple reason that is it His. A name is so important, so necessary in this life, for identification. The name of the WORD (the Logos) will be upon that city, that is the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. 

He was not known by that name until His visit to this earth. He was named by His Father. His name was to be Jesus or savior. This was to be His earthly name, There is not a day passes but what that lovely name is invoked around the world. Mt. 1:21 

This is a name, given by the Father, which makes known the revelation of just who Jesus is. The Father exalted Him above all men and kingdoms. Above all that is natural or spiritual. A name that will be acknowledge willingly by those whose hearts desire to worship and praise him. Or, forcibly by the ungodly. Every tongue will acknowledge His name.

The name of the Lord Jesus Christ will be confessed to be the greatest and most powerful of all names. Phil. 2:9 

Faith, in His name makes us to be sons of the most High. Jn. 1:12 

Faith in His name brings healing to the physical man. Acts 3:16 

The name of the Lord Jesus Christ will be upon the Bride. Rev. 22:4 

How proudly she will bear that name throughout the eternity to come. There is no greater name than His.
    
	100 FOLD. PHILADELPHIA - BROTHERLY LOVE. Rev. 3:7

	DEEDS KNOWN. Little strength, maintained the WORD. Not denied MY NAME. Rev.3:8

	I LOVE YOU. v.9

	YOU HAVE KEPT MY WORD AND PATIENCE. I WILL KEEP YOU FROM TRIBULATION. v.10

	I COME, HOLD FAST TO RECEIVE YOUR CROWN. v.11

	TO BE MADE A PILLAR IN THE HOUSE OF THE LORD. 

	HE WILL MAINTAIN HIS POSITION. THE NAME OF GOD UPON HIM, THE NAME OF THE NEW JERUSALEM, ALSO, MY NEW NAME. Rev. 3:12 




                         THE CHURCH      21


THE CELESTIAL JERUSALEM. 
The heavenly is that which is the most important for it is that which is eternal. Heb. 12:22 

Every thing earthly will cease and desist but that which is of the Lord will never be terminated. That which is earthly, even of the Tabernacle in the wilderness, is but a shadow, a carbon copy of the heavenly. It is not the real thing. Even in the building of the Tabernacle the Lord showed His care and requirement that it be built exactly according to the pattern. The Lord does not deviate from the requirements for His Eternal City. It will be the epitome of perfection. Heb. 8:5 

Even now, He has extended to His church a glorious invitation to participate in things heavenly. He HATH raised us together with Christ that we might sit with Him in heavenly places. It is possible, by the anointing of the Spirit, to find ourselves in a heavenly atmosphere. Eph. 2:6 

Another HATH in which we are privileged to partake is the blessings of heaven. Just to be saved and to serve the Lord is a great blessing, but as always the Lord blesses His people more abundantly. Eph. 1:3


IN THE SIGHT OF GOD THERE IS NO DIFFERENCE IN RACE. 
All fit in to one category, the Lord sees us all, just as we are, as sinners. Gal. 3:22 

In Christ Jesus neither Jew or Gentile, status nor gender are to determine spiritual standing. In Christ the body is but one. Gal. 3:28 

Why do we differentiate when this scriptures so plainly teach that there is no distinction in the sight of the Lord. He places all on equal status that He might make known His abundant mercy to all, in equal fashion. Rom. 10:12

Religious beliefs and doctrines are not to be taken in to account in relationship to the body of Christ, the church. For Christ will be all sufficient to that body. His power will be demonstrated equally throughout the whole of His body. Col.3:11 

The blending together of the Spirit will cause all to speak and teach the same thing. This is perhaps the greatest miracle that is to be seen in the body of believers. All in impeccable agreement, speaking and moving as a unit, by the power of the Holy Spirit. No division of any kind. Perfectly united and joined together with the same mind and understanding. 1 Cor. 1:10 

One Lord, one faith (belief or persuasion), perfect absolute harmony and unity in doctrine. Eph. 4:5 

As always, the love of the Lord in us will accomplish this mighty and wonderful act. Jesus wrote in the new commandment that the believer is to love with a love that is equal to His love for us. Love is the sign of true discipleship. John 13:34-35 

Human love cannot reach the magnitude of His love which is the only true love. That love is shared with us as we are filled with His Spirit. This is certainly a major sign that the Spirit dwells within. That glorious, heavenly love is poured forth by the Holy Spirit into our hearts until we can love like He does. Having been filled with His love we can even love our enemies and pray for those who despitefully use us. This is the beauty of Christ revealed in His Church. Love completed and in love with Christ. That is His church. Rom. 5:5  




                                    THE CHURCH                           22

PROMISES AND PROPHECIES PERTAINING TO THE TRUE SION.
Once again we are faced with a choice, Shall we apply the prophecies to a natural or spiritual Sion? No one is excluded from the Sion of God, the spiritual city, if only they believe that Jesus is the Christ. Faith in the Son of God is a prerequisite to becoming a part of that City. Those who will be excluded are listed in Rev. 22:15. 

Note that listed among them are they who are liars and live in falsehood. Whatsoever is not of truth is a lie. Not a very glamorous group. 


THE LORD IS THE FOUNDER OF THE CITY. 
It is Jehovah Himself that has planned, laid the foundation and is building the City. He alone is the founder of this glorious City. So important is the City to the Lord that He revealed to Abraham when he left Ur, that there would be a City. For all that he accumulated of this world goods, Abraham constantly looked forward to the City whose architect and craftsman was the Lord. Heb.11:10 

The whole majestic and wondrous structure is founded on the only possible, eternal foundation and that is the Lord Jesus Christ. Nothing else could be acceptable. Jesus is all in all. 1 Cor. 3:11 

The Lord Himself has laid the corner stone, the foundation stone. He has chosen it and He has established it. A stone that has been thoroughly tested and proven to be trustworthy. It will not fail. It is the stone most precious. Of more value than all precious stones that could be found in the whole universe. Isa. 28:16


THE THRONE OF HIS KINGDOM TO BE ESTABLISHED. 
It is the hill, the apex of His holiness. The Lord is holy. The place of His dwelling will be holiness. Every thing surrounding Him must be holy. It is here that He will establish the throne of His KING. Note please, that the Lord will establish and install His KING. It is Jesus who will rule and reign as the only Potentate, the ruler, ruling in time and eternity. He is the KING above all kings and the LORD above all lords. There is no power nor authority like unto our KING. 1 Tim. 6:15 

He is the Lamb of God. The redeemer and the great warrior KING. Rev. 17:14 

Just look at Zion. Here is seen beauty in its absolute perfection. Nothing can compare to the unique elegance that will be shown forth from this City. The full magnificence of Jehovah Himself will grace this marvelous New Jerusalem. Ps. 2:6 

This is the city where the complete effulgence of the glory of the Lord is in residence. This is His City and He will fill it with the completeness of Himself. Her light was as a stone most precious. How completely scriptural. For Jesus is the light. He occupies the throne and that magnificent light emanates from the throne. It is like a most precious stone. Jesus is the foundation stone, the jewel of heaven. 
Its appearance is as a jasper stone, clear as crystal. Rev. 21:11 

His appearance like a jasper stone. Rev. 4:3 The jasper, the first foundation stone. Rev. 21:19 

Likewise the wall of the City had the same glorious appearance. Rev. 21:18  
     


                    THE CHURCH                     23

THE LORD HAS MADE A CHOICE. 
He has chosen Zion for His dwelling place. It is that which He has desired. His heart constantly reaches out to His people in love and eagerness for a return, from them, of deep worship and love. Ps. 132:13 

May the Spirit of the Lord reveal to us the full implications of the statements of Paul to the Corinthian church.  This is not a casual statement. The Lord meant just exactly what He said. He will find a people in whom He can live, walk and be the great God that He is, in them. He will reveal His glorious might and power through them. 2 Cor. 6:16 

What we see now, manifest through the church, is tainted with the flesh, carnal and worldly. Soon, the Lord will occupy His temple as He has promised. When He does, what we have now will seem as nothing. For all that is done, for all that is said, the church of today is spiritually bankrupt. The call of the Spirit is to come out, be separated from all impurities and the manipulations of the carnal man. Hear the cry for holiness. 2 Cor. 6:17


CHURCH OF PROSPERITY. 
Hear the Word of the Lord. This is a "more sure Word of prophecy" because it comes from the WORD and is directed to the church of the last days. The church at Laodicia and to the church of today who adhere to teachings that are pleasant to the natural man. " Because you say" We talk about those things closest to our hearts. 

If our constant conversation is riches, put the shoe on. " I am rich", I have acquired me great wealth. Too often, those who propagate this doctrine are also the recipients. In contrast, the five things that hopefully wealth will accomplish create just the opposite. Wretchedness, fear of loss. Miserableness, never satisfied with finances and things possessed. 

The rich, yet poor. Trusting in wealth and its abilities, rather than the Lord. Blind, lacking the revelation and comprehension of the Word. There is no greater blindness than those who deliberately will not see. Nude, the continuation of a lack of Spiritual emphasis will negate any possibility of wearing the wedding garment. Rev. 3:17


ESTABLISHED OF THE MOST HIGH. 
The Lord Himself is building the City according to His plans and requirements. Every occupant will have met His High and righteous standards. Those who inhabit that city are they who were born there. Ps. 87:5 

Those who are not born of the Spirit cannot even understand that there is to be a City. John 3:3 

Those not born of the Spirit cannot enter into that City. John 3:5 The Lord of mercy and love will call a people who were not His, to be His people. Not of race but of grace. A people not loved to become His Beloved. A people once rejected now to become sons of the Most High. If we follow the pattern laid down in His word we will find ourselves, loved, accepted of Him and included in His plans for His church in these last days. Rom. 9:25-26 




                  THE CHURCH                           24

THE LORD IN THE MIDST OF HIS VERY OWN. 
The scriptures show, beyond a shadow of doubt, that the Lord is desirous of dwelling in and with His redeemed. That is what it is all about. The whole plan of salvation is completed with a perfect, unconditional manifestation of the Lord in His Bride. The greatness of His power and presence is sufficient for any people to rejoice with exceeding great joy. To shout aloud before Him. Isa. 12:6

Zion is urged of the Lord to rejoice greatly, to sing and shout aloud and that not without cause. The verdict is in, Zion has been declared innocent. Her enemies have been defeated. The king, the Lord is in residence. She will not be beset by evil again. Zeph. 3:14-15 

How like the Woman of Revelation Twelve before whom the dragon, Satan stands to destroy her child. Rev. 12:4 

She is then delivered and carried  to a place prepared by the Lord, where she will be sheltered and fed for the duration of the tribulation period. Rev. 12:6   


THE BEAUTY OF HIS PRESENCE IN HIS CHURCH. 
His presence brings great assurance and confidence. He will reveal Himself in His church with great power and majesty. He is salvation and deliverance from every wile and attack of the enemy. Her dedication and devotion to the Lord is cause for Him to rejoice and be well pleased with what she has become. The Bride is that one who has caused Him to be consumed of love. 

The expression of the fullness of His love is yet to come. As much love as He has displayed toward us there is more, much, much more. To the saved and especially to the Bride, He who is LOVE, {1 Jn. 4:8} will dwell in the totality of His love, in His Zion. We see and appreciate His love for us shown in His death for us. It is the love of "for God so loved" the love of redemption, which is beautiful and glorious when we are the recipients of that love. 

The ultimate of His love is that of a husband, a companion and a fellowship that will never end. Not a natural emotion but one that reaches far beyond the natural into the Spiritual and the Godlike being which we have become in Christ Jesus. The words "rest in his love" may also be translated "be silent in his love".  The greatest moment of His love will be the silence of one half hour when the seventh seal is opened. Rev. 8:1  

A love that needs no words. It is His time for rejoicing over the Bride. It is a moment of excitement and rejoicing as the time of the wedding has arrived. The Bride has made herself presentable and ready for that glorious moment. Isa. 62:5

It is the time of the presence of the Lord in His Temple, the Bride, therefore all are silenced before Him. It is a vital, holy and most important moment of time. As with all buildings, after completion, there is a moment when it is occupied. The Lord will inhabit His Temple with the fullness of Himself. He and His Bride shall become one. Hab. 2:20  

In His great and magnificent love the Lord will sing to His Bride. A song of love to which here is no comparison. It is His love. The only true love. Zeph. 3:17




                           THE CHURCH                         25

ZION, THE PERFECTION OF BEAUTY. 
Nothing can compare to the glorious, living city of the Most High. The glory of the Lord will blaze forth
from that city of perfection and beauty. Ps. 50:2 

So abundant is the glory of the Lord in her, that here is no need of sun or moon. The lamb of God, the
Lord Jesus Christ, the light of the world is the lamp and light of the City. Rev. 21:23 

Night will not exist there. There will be no need of any source of lamp or light. The Lord God is the supply of the illumination for that eternal city. Rev. 22:5

Nothing artificial to be found in it. This is the real thing.


THE HIGH STANDARDS OF THE LORD APPLIED TO THE CITY. 
The inhabitants to be called Holy. All whose names are recorded are those who have been brought into the life of Christ. Isa. 4:3 

The City is to be purged and cleansed by the Spirit of the Lord. The Spirit of judgment. The baptism of the Spirit is one of fire. Fire to purge and burn the dross from the lives of the believer. He is the winnowing fan of the Lord and will separate the chaff from the wheat, that which is superfluous, from the true wheat. The working of the Spirit is very practical and necessary to the cleansing of the church and the preparation of the Bride. Mt. 3:11-12 

Consider the purposes for which He came into the world. Rarely are these works of righteousness considered in relationship to the Holy Spirit. He has come to convict the world, and the church, of their sin, convince them of the judgment to come and to show them the way of righteousness. John 16:8 

The call of the Spirit to the church is to awake, rouse yourself and realize the time and the season. These are days of preparation, clothe yourself with the strength of the Lord. Put on the garments of beauty and glory. The uncircumcised and unrighteous to be completely cleansed from her midst. Purity and righteousness are to be the order of the day. Isa. 52:1


THE RANSOMED OF THE LORD TO GATHER INTO THE CITY. 
The City is exclusively reserved for those who have been purchased by the blood of the Lamb. They gather together with songs and the everlasting joy of the Lord as a crown. Here indeed the former things will have all passed away. Isa. 35:10 

The Road to the Zion of God is called the "Way of Holiness" the unclean cannot, nor do they desire to walk in that Way. Isa. 35:8 

Jesus is that Way. Who walks in that way? They who walk in a blameless manner, in purity and righteousness. Those who embrace the truth and from the heart speak the truth. Ps. 15:2 

The call and exhortation of the Word is to fully embrace the NEW MAN, that new creation. It is created in the likeness of the Lord with the intent that it live a life following the pattern that He has established. The righteousness and true holiness of the Lord are to be manifest in that New Man. Eph. 4:24 

The high calling of God, in Christ is to walk and live in His holiness. 1 Thes. 4:7 

He will enable us, if we will make the commitment that is necessary and seek Him with our whole being 

          


                                   THE CHURCH                          26

THE MINISTRY OF OUR LORD AND HIS CHURCH. 
The presence of the Spirit of the Lord enlivens the preaching of the Word. Lacking the Spirit will bring forth a substitute that does not satisfy. The wisdom of man, however intellectual may be pleasant to the ears, but leaves the heart empty. The ministry of the Word under the anointing of the Spirit will reach into the heart of the hearer and meet their needs. The anointing of the Spirit empowered the Lord Jesus to declare the Good News. Luke 4:18-21 

Dare we try to fulfill His call to the church, to proclaim glad tidings, without the Holy Spirit anointing our lives? The meek, the humble in heart gladly hear and receive the message. Hearts and lives that are shattered are reclaimed and reestablished. Those bound by sin are released into the glorious liberty that is in Christ Jesus.


THE YEAR OF THE CHURCH. 
The time when the desires of the heart of the church to see Him and be with Him, will be met. The Lord has a time schedule and will not deviate from it. Jesus came at the time predetermined of His Father. "When the time had fully come". He who established times and seasons works according to His set plan. Gal. 4:4 

The prophecies of the Word of God given pertaining to the last days will all be fulfilled, in His time. " In the dispensation of the fullness of the times". Eph. 1:10 

The Lord is in complete control and will accomplish the fulfillment of His plan. That which is acceptable unto the Lord is to manifest His good pleasure in His Zion, the City of the Living God. Ps. 51:18 

The Lord has appointed a time, a set time to show forth His favor and majesty to His Zion. Ps. 102:13 

The church is really the key to the time of the end and the final judgments that are to be loosed on this earth. Isa. 61:2  


THE DAY OF VENGEANCE. 
A day that most would like to overlook and ignore. As certain as the sun has risen today, so certain is the day of the retribution of our God. That is a day that had been appointed. Acts 17:31

That day is stated to be the "day of His appearing and His kingdom". 2 Tim. 4:1 

The day of His is the day when He is made manifest, when He appears {Gr. Epiphaneia} in the brightness of the glory of the Lord. It is the day when all shall see Him, from those who are dead and were responsible
for His death, to those living at that particular moment. Rev. 1:7 

It is very apparent from the scriptures that the appearing {Christ seen by all} and His coming are one and the same. The antichrist is destined to be destroyed by the brightness, the shining forth of the Epiphany or appearing at the time of the coming {parousia or rapture} of the Lord Jesus. 

There are not two events spoken of here, relating to His second coming. They are one and the same moment of time. The wicked one will be destroyed after having done his dirty work. Unfortunately the antichrist must appear before Christ. Otherwise, he would not be in a position to be destroyed by the Coming of Christ the second time. 2 Thes. 2:8 




                                       THE CHURCH                      27

TREMENDOUS BLESSINGS TO BE UPON ZION. 
The emotions of the world that have crept into Zion will be replaced with the presence of the Lord. In the place of mourning and lamenting and ashes there will be given a crown of beauty. The Bride will be the most beautiful creature that the Lord has ever brought into being. The oil, the anointing, the joy of the Lord produces gladness and rejoicing, even in the face of great trials. To praise the Lord Jesus at a time when things are dark and the spirit of heaviness and depression comes against us will bring victory. Isa. 61:3   


TREES OF RIGHTEOUSNESS. 
The tree exemplifies something that is strong, stalwart and of great strength. It is tall and upright. Having roots that have dug deep and have sufficient strength to withstand the storms. Its leaves are green and full of life. Its fruit is tasty and desirable. It is a beautiful type of the Christian whose righteousness is from the Lord. Their strength is in His purity and holiness. Isa. 61:3 

This is the tree that bears good fruit. It cannot and will not bear bad fruit. Only a bad tree will produce bad fruit. Therefore, the bad tree because of its inability to bear good fruit will be cut down and destroyed by fire. There is no middle ground. This is an either, or. Mt. 7:16-19 

The righteous man is one who walks in the ways of the Lord. He has a strong desire and hunger for the Word. He is the tree that is planted by the waters of life. He partakes of the great river that emanates from the very throne of God. It is the "pure river of the water of life". Rev.22:1 

No wonder it is called "the tree of life". From its planting to its growth into an everlasting source of life, its roots drink the waters of life. Its light, creating growth, originates from the God of Light. It is a very fruitful and unique tree for it brings forth twelve kinds of fruit, and at the same time bearing fruit every month. 

Of note twelve times twelve is one hundred forty-four. The one hundred forty-four thousand are a portion of this tree of life. There is no tree on earth that can be compared to this tree. Yet, its ministry is to the inhabitants of this earth, for its leaves are for the healing of the nations. Physical and Spiritual healing grows on the tree of life.
   

PLANTED BY THE HAND OF THE LORD. 
The great husbandman in His infinite wisdom has planted a proper tree. A tree that will make manifest His ability and His glory. The whole of those who are a part of this beautiful and marvelous tree are righteous. Anything that is the work of the hands of the Lord must be perfect. He is not the source of things that are defective. All His ways are perfect. Isa. 60:21 

The righteous are planted in the house of the Lord. They are healthy and grow prosperously like the Palm tree. They grow tall and erect like the cedar, they are ever green, full of life, His life. Age does not hinder them from the bearing of fruit. Because of the constant and abundant flow from the water of life there is no possibility of becoming dry and fruitless. The Lord is glorified in His planting and the
fruitfulness of His tree. Ps. 92:12-14 




                                  THE CHURCH                         28

I WILL BUILD MY CHURCH. 
The personal pronouns and "my" show who is building the church and for whom it is being built. Mt. 16:18

It is to be a spiritual house. Not earthly and carnal. A house motivated by the Spirit and furnished with all spiritual blessings, gifts, fruit and ministries. It is His palace, His Temple, His dwelling, as such it must be wholly consecrated, dedicated and surrendered unto Him.  1 Pet. 2:5

Those serving in His house are to be holy unto the Lord. How spurious are the efforts of men who to try to put the house together. This is a house that only the Lord can build. All other efforts are in vain and will but fail. Ps. 127:1 

Wisdom is the builder of the house. It is built properly and according to the blueprint. It is established as a spiritually proper house by understanding, comprehension of the Word. Through knowledge it is filled within with treasures of rare and exquisite value. Pr. 24:3-4 


THE HOUSE OF GLORY. 
The first house, built by Solomon. A structure of beauty and elegance. Built at great expense and with all the best of materials. Now, this house, lacking the splendor of Solomon's Temple. Built with great opposition and many difficulties. 

In the seventh month, the month of the feast of tabernacles. The feast that is yet to be fulfilled in the church. We celebrate Passover and Pentecost not only in commemoration but as literal experiences in our lives, Salvation and the in filling of the Spirit. 

Tabernacles will complete the introduction, in a Spiritual sense, of the feasts. The prophet Haggai, whose name means "festive". How fitting. Came to Zerubbabel, "born in Babylon". Babylon is confusion. There is great confusion throughout all churches of our world today. Not from one particular cause but a great multitude of causes. 

Babylon also represents the antichrist's church of the last days. While Zerubbabel was born in a time of confusion, the hand of the Lord was upon Him and he was wonderfully blessed and led of the Lord to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the house of worship. 

He is a type of Christ as the instigator and architect of the house. The names of the other individuals named are likewise of interest. Shealtiel . Obviously a spiritual man, a man of prayer. No doubt he had asked of the Lord that this project come to pass. Joshua, "Jehovah-saved or Jehovah Savior". Josedech, "Jehovah-righted, or cleansed, to make right". Sounds like the work of the Holy Spirit. Haggai 2:2 

Who has seen Solomon's Temple, history, the past. To you In comparison it may seem as nothing. Hag. 2:3 

We compare the church of today with the Book of Acts, then with the early outpouring of the Holy Ghost in the last century. There is much to be desired. Nevertheless, the glory of the latter will be greater than the former. 

Combine the two, into one, and it is to be still more glorious. This will be THE HOUSE that the Lord himself has built. Its grandeur, its majesty will excel any that have gone before, for this is the work of His hands and is His doings. Therefore it must be perfect.
 



                   THE CHURCH                       29

THE HOUSE OF GLORY. 
That is the house that the Lord Jesus is building. It is the house of glory, honor, worship and praise unto the name of the Lord. As the builder He is worthy of all honor and glory. Heb. 3:3  

The church is His house. It is His dwelling place for eternity. It is the capstone, the ultimate of His work and goal. We are that house. However, as with any building, there is a code that must be followed. The material and the construction must follow the plan that the Lord has stipulated. All material that is substandard will be rejected. We are that house providing we remain stalwart in the faith, and maintain our joy in the Lord, unto the end. Heb. 3:6 

In spite of what we once were, for we were His enemies because of our wicked minds, it is His design that, having been reconciled to Him. We should be holy and consecrated to Him. Unblameable, without fault, without blemish or completely faultless before Him. Being without defect and blameless. In all this He is the one who determines the condition and the quality of the materials used and the workmanship. He is not only the builder but He is likewise the inspector. Col. 1:21-22 

It is also required of those who would desire to be included in this grand and glorious building that they continue in the faith. The past, or what one has been is not to be considered. It is the present status that counts. We are to continue or abide in the faith of the Lord Jesus. His church will be grounded, established and consolidated in Christ. Settled, steadfast and immovable in the Word. Not wavering, vacillating or inconsistent in their standards. This is a church that knows its high calling and firmly follows the Lord. Col. 1:23


PROGRESSION OF THE PROJECT. 
The Lord Jesus is the object and nucleus of the undertaking. He is building a Temple for Himself. The whole of the construction and everything used in it will be according to His specifications and they are of the highest. As a matter of fact they are to be perfect. 

The edifice will be in perfect unity and one accord. That in itself will be a miracle. The building is to be " fitly framed together ".  Blended together in absolute harmony, unity in perfect agreement. Nothing, absolutely not even the hint of separation or discord. This is to be the dwelling place of the Lord. His palace and the Crown Jewel of His work of salvation. Eph. 2:21-22 

Seemingly, even more wondrous are the words of the Apostle Paul when he wrote concerning the unity of the faith, persuasion or doctrine. He also wrote of their being " one faith " or doctrine. While doctrine can separate and divide, nevertheless it is vital to the church that we know what we believe and why. 

If the whole of the church would listen to the teachings of the Holy Spirit there would be but one interpretation of the Word. Does the Spirit teach thing to one group and then something else to another group? Obviously someone is not listening. The Bride will be in unmitigated oneness in all things. The perfect church perfectly unified in all things and in all ways. A true work of the Spirit. Eph. 4:13    



                      THE CHURCH                     30

A GREAT NEED FOR MATURITY. 
The Lord would not have His church to be like children in understanding and comprehension of the Word. In reference to evil, be as innocent as a babe. 1 Cor. 14:20 

Having a love for and speaking forth the truth of the Word. That we may " grow up " in every way to maturity. Becoming united to Christ. Willing to recognize His headship and leadership in our lives. Eph. 4:15 Growth comes from Him and by the knowledge of Him. Jesus is the element that unifies the body supplying to every part of it, the ability be joined with Him and with one another. It is His power and the manifestation of His love in the body of Christ, that produces the energy to promote the growth necessary to bring the body to maturity. Eph. 4:16

THE NOURISHMENT OF THE BODY. 
As in natural life, the beginning of the Spiritual life requires milk. Whereas babes we have a craving for the milk of the Word. This creates spiritual growth. 

Unfortunately, many never progress beyond the infant stage always wanting and seeking after the basics, the milk of the Word. The Apostle Paul chided the Corinthian church for their inability to go beyond milk and learn to eat the solids of the Word. 1 Cor. 3:2 

The Hebrews were also reprimanded for their lack of the knowledge of the Word. They were still needing to be taught the " first principles " or basic doctrines. When they should have progressed to a point where they were teachers. They were still dependent on milk, when by this time they should have been able to assimilate strong meat. Strong, strong words, those still needing milk " are without experience of the word of righteousness " and are yet babes, regardless of the years that they may have followed Christ. Heb. 5:12-13 The number of years that a person has been saved has nothing to do with their maturity. An appetite for Spiritual things, especially the Word of the Lord promotes spiritual growth, and maturity, nothing else. 

REACHING MATURITY. 
The consumption of strong meat is necessary. An ability to understand the prophetic utterances of the Word. Having received the revelation of the mysteries of the Word. Having been taught them is not sufficient. We must assimilate them until they become a part of our very spiritual nature and comprehension. Where, what was once the revelation of the teacher now becomes the revelation of the student. The scriptures call us to maturity, to the perfection that is found in the Lord Jesus. Note, His challenge, be perfect even as your heavenly Father is perfect. Mt. 5:48 He would not set a goal that was beyond possibility. If a man does not offend in word he is a perfect man, bringing the whole man into subjection. James 3:2 Might we apply this to the WORD of the Lord also? Our comprehension and understanding of the Word can be exactly as the Lord intended to reveal it to His church. Lord help us to proclaim the pure Word of truth.       




                      THE CHURCH                     31

AUTHORITY AND LEADERSHIP GIVEN TO CHRIST. 
Absolutely every thing is under the feet of the Lord Jesus. All authority and power is brought into subjection to Him. The Lord has excluded nothing from His control. Though this is not yet seen in its fullness, the day will come when it will be the fact. Heb. 2:8 

The ultimate, is that day of victory when all ungodly rule and authority shall be subdued by Christ and the kingdom delivered to the Father. The final enemy to be conquered is death. 1 Cor. 15:25-26 He is the triumphant one. 

HE IS THE HEAD OF THE CHURCH. 
Leadership, direction and the motivation of the body come from the head. So it is with Christ our thinking, our movements, our directions must come from Him. We will not miss the will of the Lord if we are properly connected to the head, Christ. Eph. 1:22 

Two elements are seen as necessary to be a part of Christ. Truth and love. Christ is the truth. Christ is love. When the truth is spoken the spiritual man within us is quick to respond. Truth spoken in love will bind and unify the body, making it one. Eph. 4:15 

The church is to be subject unto Christ. Eph. 5:23 

Contrary to modern day relationships between husband and wives, the church must be in whole hearted submission to Christ. She must not be a stranger to such words as commitment, submission, subjection, dedication, surrender, consecration and so on. The Bride will be in complete subservience to her Beloved. She will fully follow the Word of the Lord. For Christ is the Word made flesh. Jn. 1:14


THE CHURCH HIS BODY. 
Joined together in one glorious component that complements and emulates Christ by the power of the Spirit. It is composed of many individuals, who through the workings of the Holy Spirit, react in every way, as one, for they are one in Christ. This is an amazing but marvelous evidence of the power of the Lord. They maintain their individuality but are gloriously joined to Christ. Lord haste the day. 1 Cor. 12:12 

The practicality of the baptism of the Holy Spirit is never more evidenced than at this particular moment of time, when He makes up His Bride. A lack of unity in the church is an indication, that not all who claim to be Spirit filled, are Spirit filled. The infilling of the Spirit will create the heart and life of Christ in us which will promote harmony in the whole of the body. 

Perhaps we should all seek the Lord for the Spirit of the Lord which will bring about the example that is displayed in the Word of the Lord. The Lord will have the church that He has outlined in the Word, whether we are in it or not. He will find a Bride out of the hodgepodge that is called the church of today. Race, doctrine, denomination and what ever else brings division will be swept aside as He molds His Bride. 1 Cor. 12:13 

There are some drastic changes that will sweep through the church world as the Lord Jesus begins to prepare a people to be His Bride. Resolutions and consecrations are to be made that will thrust men and women into an experience with Jesus that they have never know before. It is coming and shall be accomplished, to the glory of the Lord.            




                THE CHURCH                     32

A DISPARITY THAT MUST BE FACED. The end of condemnation for our sins. A powerful and joyful knowledge that our sins are pardoned to the fullest, and we no longer have to live under the burden and guilt of sin. However, if our walk is contrary to the way of the Lord there is no release from condemnation. Freedom from sin, is extended to those who will walk after the pathway of the Spirit, and not after the way of the flesh. Rom. 8:1

As members of the body of Christ, we have come under a new regime. We now live according to " law of the Spirit of life ". Laws that are not difficult to follow when we walk in accordance with the Word of the Lord. The Spirit of Christ, in us, by nature will do that which is pleasing in His sight. When we have been set free from the law of sin and death, we no longer walk in the ways of the flesh. The church cannot be carnal and spiritual at one and the same time. There must be a choice made by those who would be members of the Body of Christ. Rom. 8:2


THE RESULTS OF THE SINFUL NATURE. 
The Law could not produce the righteousness it represented for it was defeated by the sinful nature of the flesh. Jesus came in the form of sinful flesh to defeat the flesh. He offered Himself as a sin offering in order to judge or condemn sin in sinful man. Rom. 8:3 

His objective was the " righteousness of the Law " the righteous requirements of the Law might be completely accomplished in those who do not walk according to the flesh, but after the Spirit. Rom. 8:4 

The standard of righteousness established by the Lord has never changed. The " righteousness " of the Law is still in effect. The Lord is a righteous and holy being and cannot let His cod code of purity and holiness. We are not under the Law but under grace, which is the favor, mercy and love of the Lord. Because of the grace of the Lord do we have license to violate the holiness of the Lord? " GOD FORBID ", it is impossible for those who are dead to sin, to live in and commit sin. Rom. 6:2 

Sin was at one time the reigning factor in our lives. Now, by the Word of the Lord and by His Spirit, which dwells within, we are set free from sin. Where grace reigns there is righteousness and the demand of the Law for righteousness is satisfied. Let the same consecration be made to righteousness as was formerly made to unrighteousness. 

The unrighteous are committed to and bound by their sin. They are frequently fanatical in the pursuit of their sinful pleasures. May we make the same commitment to seek and obtain the righteousness of Christ. The life of Christ, in us, is not a theory but a fact of life, a life that is lived in the Spirit, which exemplifies the Lord Jesus. Rom. 6:19 

We are to be liberated from sin and its powers, to become those who serve the Lord. Our fruit is no to be the fruit of holiness. A model of the purity and holiness found in the Life of Christ. A life that is being lived out in us. Rom. 6:22 The ultimate is eternal life for those who partake of His holiness. 




                                        THE CHURCH                  32

CONTRASTING CHARACTERS. 
Too often both are resident and in conflict in the heart of the Christian. The flesh, the carnal man, will always resist the desires of the spiritual man, thus creating a warfare within the spiritual nature of man. The flesh shows interest only in the things that are fleshly and of this sinful world. In contrast, the spiritual man turns his thoughts and desires toward the Lord and those things that are of the Spirit of God. Rom. 8:5 

The value of possessing a spiritual mind in comparison with the carnal, is the difference between life and death. Both are eternal and utterly final. Death is not simply the dying of the body, but is eternity without the Lord and the eternal life that He proffers. Rom. 8:6 

Here is a challenge! What is the measure of our commitment to Christ? It is to be measured by our willingness and fulfillment of His will and Law. The carnal mind neither will nor can it be in subjection to the will of the Lord. That is why the person with a mind of the flesh is lost or unsaved. Those who live after the flesh are displeasing to the Lord. Rom. 8:7- 8.  


IF THE SPIRIT OF GOD LIVES IN YOU. 
There is no equivocation in the Word of the Lord. If His Spirit dwells in one then they are not in the flesh. The two cannot mix. There will be one or the other, for without the Spirit we do not belong to Christ. Hard words perhaps, but true. Rom. 8:9 

Here is the solution. It is Christ in you, in preeminence and predominantly, He rules without opposition from the flesh. The flesh is dead, overwhelmed by the Spirit of Christ. The life and righteousness of the Christ will be manifest in His church. He has set and established certain criteria for the body of Christ and they must be met. Rom. 8:10 

The Spirit of the Lord is the Spirit of resurrection. When that Spirit is welcomed into our spirit there is a quickening, a revitalization of the mortal body. New strength and healing are found here in the power of the Spirit of resurrection. How much better we feel and what quickening is evident when we gather together to worship the Lord. Rom. 8:11   

BEING PUT TO DEATH. 
As in the natural, so with the Spiritual man. few want to die. When the Spirit dwells within He will lead us to mortify, put to death the old man, the carnal, the fleshly. Then, and only then can we know the purity of the working of the Spirit and His manifestations in our midst. Rom. 8:13 

Crucifixion to the carnal man will accomplish that which is desirable to the Lord. This is separation from worldliness or the sinful and wicked things of this life. 

Little of this is evident in the church of  today. However, before the conclusion of this world there will be drastic changes seen in the church. 

A visit to the cross where there is a death to the old man is most beneficial. Gal. 6:14 The crucifixion of the fleshly lusts and our sinful nature is a sign that we are indeed followers of Christ. Gal. 5:24    




                                        THE CHURCH                       34

WHICH IS RIGHT? 
Our modern day evaluation and compromise of the standards of the Word, or the Word of the Lord? Must we sin every day in word thought or deed. Having been saved from sin we certainly are not expected to continue in sin. The key to a sinless life is death. There is no sin in a cemetery, for they are dead. Death is not an event in life that is easily approached. 

The Lord has incorporated into us a desire to live. Our physical man will struggle to live when death is nigh. The secret of a victorious Christian life is death. We must die, die to sin, so that we will not continue to be involved in it. Rom. 6:2 

Where and how do we die to self and sin? In the waters of baptism. We were baptized INTO the death of the Lord Jesus, buried WITH Him, by baptism into His death. As He died and was buried we also are to follow Him into a sharing and unity with Him in His death, where we die to sin. 

This is not an appeal for rebaptism but rather a recognition of a transaction that has already taken place in our lives. An exhortation to, to revisit, in prayer, consecration and faith, an act of our Christian heritage that needs to be completed in His church. Rom. 6:3

The individual that has died with Him is blessed by being able to share in His resurrection and all of its powers. Here is the life that we seek, to be found with life, in Christ Jesus. So much of what is manifest in the church world of today is physical rather than spiritual. Similar manifestations may accompany both but there is a great contrast between the two. Newness of life, means that resurrection life that is now His. It is His desire to share it with us. Our longings, our spiritual cravings can only be satiated by living the life that He has designed for His people. It may not be the way of ease, but the pay off is tremendous. Rom. 6:4 

The ultimate is that glorious and perfect church.


DIE OR DIE! 
If the church continues to live according to the sinful nature, the carnal man, the flesh, the sentence of death is upon it. The wages of sin is death, whether committed by an out and out sinner or someone of the household of faith, sin is sin, and its penalty is death. For the Christian, we already know the answer. Mortify, put to death the misconduct of the flesh. Is not that a nice word for sin? Rom. 8:13    

This is a situation that must be dealt with in the church and in the lives of every one who names the name of Christ. This is certainly a " thus saith the Lord ".  Turn from, forsake sin. 2 Tim. 2:19 

The challenge to the Christian is to say "NO" to all that is ungodly and that follows the pattern of this world. To live soberly, with the mind of Christ as our guide. Justly, uprightly and doing that which is righteous. Living Godly lives in the midst of a sinful and unrighteous world. At this present time, and perhaps more so than any generation of the past. Titus 2:12 

The call of the Spirit of the Lord to His church is that she live His life in every aspect of her life and being. Exemplifying the beauty and holiness of the life of Christ.        
 



                        THE CHURCH                       35

THE LORD WILL SANCTIFY HIS CHURCH. 
He will have a church of holiness, totally separated unto Him. Cleansed by the Word and in absolute obedience to the Word. Fulfilling the teachings of the Word in every aspect. A people in whom the Word dwells and who live in the Word. Eph. 5:26 

This is according to the prayer of the Lord Jesus. He prayed for the sanctification of His followers through the truth, or the Word of God. Jn. 17:17 

The ultimate of the salvation provided for us in the giving of Christ for us is a people who are released from all iniquity. He will have a church that He has purified for His own purpose. They are called a peculiar people which does not mean a " group of oddballs " but rather a people who are very special, particularly His. Be assured that they are a people of righteous works, having great zeal in fulfilling His will in all things. Titus 2:14


THE WORD IS THE INSPIRATION OF THE LORD. 
Men of holiness spoke the Word into existence by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Conveying to the church the will and purposes of the Lord. He is revealing Himself in and through His Word. That Word was God-breathed {NIV} and is still a living communication from the Lord to His church. The revelation of the Word, by the Spirit has never ceased. 

Everything that He wants to show of Himself to us is in the Word. The Word is inexhaustible, always fresh and exciting, alive with the very passion of the living God. As it motivated those who were involved in its composition, so it is a constant source of encouragement for we who love it and read it today. 1 Pet. 1:21


THE LORD HAS A GOAL FOR YOUR LIFE. 
As one called by the Lord to be one of His very own He has destined you to partake of His perfection. The call is to be like God in His completeness, to grow up, become a man of standing and stature. Be in the likeness and status as your heavenly Father. What a tremendous goal for us, which was established by the Lord Jesus. Mt. 5:48 

While the disciple does not exceed his Master, provision has been made for him to be like his Master, completed, perfected and joined together. Luke 6:40 

Mind you, these are the words of the Lord Jesus Himself. As we approach the end of the age it is a necessity that we grow and advance in the Lord. The perfection or the maturity of love in us will enable us to have boldness, assurance and peace in the day of judgment. John 4:17 

John made a terrific statement here, proclaiming that " as He is, so are we IN THIS WORLD ". What He is, we are showing forth to this present world. If He is in us and we are in Him, it is His life that is made manifest, in us. All that He is, is ours. We are complete in Him. We come to maturity in Christ. He will withhold no good thing from them that walk in His ways and after the pattern that He has established. He will have a church that bears His likeness and personality. 




                     THE CHURCH              36

THIS IS THE WILL OF THE LORD. So many want to know the will of the Lord but too often seek instruction outside of the Word. Here is the pure yet simple direction for our life given to us by the Word. Sanctification and abstinence, from sin and iniquity. A departure from a life style that we well know displeases the Lord. 1 Cor. 6:9-11 

To maintain the will of the  Lord it is needful that we have the "mind of Christ". Jesus suffered in the flesh, in other words He made the supreme sacrifice. We too, are to have the "same mind" and put to death ungodly and carnal desires. For the individual that has suffered in the flesh is dead to sin. Death, and death alone brings victory over sin. This is not referring to physical death but death to the wicked and evil lusts of the flesh. 

With this aspect of the "will of the Lord" accomplished in our lives we may continue the remainder of our natural life knowing that we are doing the will of the Lord. The will of the Lord, is understood by the Spiritual mind and not the natural mind. It is therefore an imperative that the life of one seeking the will of the Lord be involved in those actions which identify with the example that was established in Jesus. 1 Pet. 4:1-2


STEPS TO FULFILLING HIS WILL. 
One certain and basic phase is to have a comprehension of the Word and to hide it in our hearts. The Spirit of the Lord will bring to remembrance portions of the Word and in such a manner instruct us in the way that we should go. 

How can He guide us if we do not have His Word in our hearts? The psalmist found great pleasure and delight in doing the will of the Lord, and it came because of the Word. Doing His will is a family affair. It assures one of an excellent relationship with the Heavenly Father. Mt. 12:50 

Entrance to and residency in the kingdom of heaven is not established by cries or acknowledgment of the name of the Lord. Unfortunately there are those who will be excluded, even though they were very vocal in calling out His name. Why, they did not do His will. This places extremely great importance on fulfilling His will in every aspect of our lives.       


HERE IS THE WILL OF THE LORD FOR EVERY CHILD OF GOD. 
This is one of those messages, in the Word, which will enable one to know that they have done His will. Offer yourself, spirit, soul and body as a holy, living sacrifice to the Lord. This is pleasing to Him. It would certainly place the person offering the sacrifice in good standing with Him. 

While this is a considerable commitment it is still only that which is reasonable or rational. An action that is very basic to the Christian life. The life in Christ that we are to now live is a metamorphosis, a change an entirely new life. This transformation brings with it a certain knowledge of the complete and perfect will of the Lord is for our lives. If the dedication is complete the full and perfect will of the Lord will be accomplished in our lives. Rom. 12:1-2 




                    THE CHURCH                            37

IN DETERMINING THE WILL OF THE LORD, TRY THIS ON FOR SIZE.
Too often the will of the Lord is thought to be something that is spectacular, while in reality it is something that is very practical and can easily be determined by adhering to the Word. The knowledge of that which is spiritual will enable us to gain the knowledge of His will. Spiritual wisdom and spiritual understanding will provide the means whereby we may understand His perfect will. The spiritual man will be led to a comprehension of the will of the Lord. Col. 1:9     


THE PRACTICAL SIDE. 
It begins with our walk before the Lord. A manner of life that brings honor and glory to Him. We walk in His ways, exemplifying His life before the world. Our walk, our conversation, our conduct acceptable and pleasing in His sight, bringing forth the fruit of righteousness and holiness. Increasing constantly in comprehension of who He is and what He is. A personal and intimate perception of His personality and substance as the Savior of the Body or Bride. Col 1:10

Strengthened or enabled by the extreme and ultimate power of God to do His will in all things, great and small, spectacular and practical. Once again the practical aspect is brought into view, great endurance or patience, long-suffering or forbearance and to accomplish the same with the joy of the Lord flooding our hearts. Simple, yet very practical practices that if followed will always cause us to ultimately see and know the will of the Lord. Col. 1:11 

The ability to know and do the will of the Lord is a heart matter. A heart that is right with the Lord, that loves Him and has a strong desire to serve Him is of prime importance. He is not impressed with actions that are made to impress. Honesty and sincerity of heart and purpose are required. Eph. 6:6


THIS IS HIS WILL FOR ALL. 
Perfection, this is the goal that the Lord has established for His church, especially in the end of the age. He can and will provide for Himself a Bride who has reached the same maturity that is found in Christ Jesus. If this is not possible, then the Gospel is in vain. 

With God, nothing is impossible. He is in the process of equipping a people who will surrender completely to Him, to do His perfect, full and absolute will. The maturity of the Bride of Christ is an imperative. She cannot meet the requirements necessary for their marriage until she achieves His likeness in every aspect of her being. Those who do His will are immensely pleasing to Him. Heb. 13:21 

Doing the will of the Lord does not always accomplish immediately the desired results. Patience must be exercised. His response will come at the right time. His timing is always at the proper moment. Our requirement is to do His will and then let Him complete His part, in His time. Heb. 10:36 

Follow His will that is already recorded in the Word of the Lord and He will make known and direct into His perfect will.
    
    



                    THE CHURCH                  38

I COME TO DO YOUR WILL, O MY GOD. 
So, it is written in the volume of the book concerning Jesus. He came to exhaustively execute the will of God, for that was His purpose in coming into the world. His deepest desire was to do the will of God, which He totally understood, from eternity. The Law of the Lord was abounding in His heart and He was to satisfy and conclude its entire demands. Ps. 40:7 

Is it possible that we will ever understand the pathos of Calvary, where the man Jesus, was to positively submit and surrender Himself to the death of the cross. Whatever crisis we face in life that calls for a life or death decision, it cannot begin to compare to the emotions of the Son of man and His Father. Certainly, Jesus knew that He would be raised from the dead. But to become the cesspool of iniquity and wickedness. To have "every" vile act of all mankind heaped up upon Him. To become sin. For the one who is life, to taste death for all men.

The agony of Him who is holiness, righteousness and purity, in His God like being, was so great that it is incomprehensible.  The suffering of His spiritual being the torments and pains of the lost was far more intense than that of the physical. He experienced tremendous change, from one extreme to another, from the beauty of holiness to the very depths and ugliness of unrighteousness. All, in accomplishing the will of His Father. Not my will but thine be done. Luke 22:42


I SANCTIFY MYSELF. 
Jesus established an example for His disciples, then and now. The truth, the Word has the ability to sanctify, to purify and to cause one to be set apart from the world, unto the Lord. This requires our involvement in the study and comprehension of the Word. How else can we ever know His will? Not only was He sanctified, but His disciples were sanctified through the Word that He had spoken to them. Jn. 17:17,19 

The Word spoken to His disciples had a cleansing effect on them. Jn. 15:3 

The youth need to give attention to the Word for it will affect them in a way that entertainment never will, nor can. The Word is mighty and powerful to bring about the changes that are so necessary if we are to follow the Lord. Ps, 119:9 

There is nothing that will eradicate and maintain Christian values in our hearts like the Word of the Lord. Its value is priceless. It is our resistance to and our victory over the powers of darkness. Ps. 119:11 

An understanding of the Word and knowing the will of the Lord cannot be separated. The Word illuminates, it gives us comprehension, it shows us the paths of the Lord, the way in which we must walk. What an attitude. May it be so in our hearts. "I hate every false way ". Only the Word of the Lord can lead one to such a strong and positive decision. Ps. 119:104 

To love righteousness and hate iniquity may seem to some to be fanatical but it is the Bible standard that will produce the true anointing of the Spirit. May we buy the truth and never release it from our grasp. Heb. 1:9         




                       THE CHURCH                          39

THE NEW BIRTH. 
How effective is it? A chick will act like a chick, eventually to become a chicken, it will never alter its behavior. One who is truly born again, of the most powerful element in the universe, the incorruptible Word of God, will manifest the nature and character of the Lord. The New Birth that has produced a New Nature and a New Creature will effectively create a new mannerism, a new language and certainly a new direction in life. The man who is now in Christ is a NEW CREATURE. The old is gone, it has passed away, it should no longer be in existence. 2 Cor. 5:17 

Here is a spiritual absolute placed before us by the Lord Jesus. Every tree is known by its fruit, if one wants an apple, go to the apple tree. The peach tree will not produce apples. Want to see Christ like fruit, go to the Christian, they will not produce two kinds of fruit. Their fruit is either good or bad, not both at one and the same time. There is no compromise to be found here. Mat. 12:33 

The good tree will produce one kind of fruit, good fruit. The bad tree will produce nothing but bad fruit. There cannot be a graft made whereby they produce the same, bad and good together. The tree bearing bad fruit is useless and therefore must be fallen and destroyed by fire. The type of fruit grown is the determining factor as to the value and length of life of a tree. Mt. 7:17-20 


WITHOUT ME YE CAN DO NOTHING. 
Another unequivocal statement of fact. There is no spiritual, eternal life outside of Jesus Christ. The branch of the tree that is no longer joined to the tree will die. Experience assures us of this. The only possible way that a branch can possibly bear fruit is to be connected to the trunk of the tree. We, the branches must ABIDE in Christ. 

He, and He alone is our source and supply of the spiritual nutrients that promote and maintain life, natural or spiritual. He is the vine, we are the branches, joined to Him we will bring forth an abundance of fruit. 

The fate of the separated branch is frightening, for it will be gathered and consumed by fire. The abiding branch has the right and privilege of requesting of the Lord what he will and it will be given. John 15:4-7 

An easily understood illustration that should strike consternation in our hearts, lest we foolishly allow ourselves to be separated from Jesus.


CREATED TO BE GOD LIKE. 
What a challenge. To be like God. That new man, that new self the Lord has constructed to be like Himself. In order to attain the goal that He has established there must be a dissolution of the old life, not partial but the whole. The new creature is a NEW CREATION, not a renovation of the old. The corrupt and deceitful desires of the flesh, the old life must be laid aside. The New man must be in control and be led by the Spirit. His attitude and conduct must be one of true righteousness and holiness before the Lord. The old must go that the new will be the only life that is displayed. Eph. 4:22-24  




                THE CHURCH                          40

THE CALL OF THE CHURCH IS A HIGH AND HOLY CALLING. 
We are to emulate the life and character of the one who has called us unto Himself. He is holy, He can never be anything else. Holiness is the very bearing and sentient being of His life. We are called to live His life in this world. To be and live holiness for it is His nature that has been imparted to us. 1 Pet. 1:15 

The Lord having promised His holy presence to be with us has called us to cleanse our selves from all and every thing that can be named "filthiness of the flesh" That which pleases the sensuous nature of the carnal man. It will totally contaminate the body and spirit of the person involved in such actions. Contrary wise, we are urged to perfect holiness because we want to do that which pleases the Lord. While this may have been directed to the Corinthian church it very definitely applies today. Perhaps even more so as we approach the end of the age. 2 Cor. 7:1


THE BRIDE WILL ATTAIN THE STANDARD OF HIS HOLINESS. 
That status is not something that is to be reached in the eternity to come but is the desire and will of the Lord Jesus for this age. Without stain or blemish of any sort. Without unsightly wrinkle or any defilement but blameless before God and man. Eph. 5:27 

Paul very definitely placed the time for a people who are fully surrendered to the Lord in the NOW. He stated, that it is God who is at work in you that His will may performed by you. Also, that the good pleasure of the Lord might be accomplished in and through the church. Phil. 2:13 

This height of spiritual attainment is to be reached in this world. Amongst a crooked and perverse or depraved generation. Somehow that has a ring of the NOW. The saints are to be without blame or any charge laid to their account. Children of the Most High who are without fault or cause for rebuke. In other words, meeting the standard of the holiness of the Lord. Phil. 2:15 


HIS MODEL FOR THIS PRESENT WORLD. 
The teaching of the grace of God that has come to us through His salvation. We are to reject all things that are contrary to the holiness of the Lord. They are not to be a part of our life. The lusts of the flesh and the world are to be overcome and banished from our lives. 

Dare we say to a God with whom all things are possible that this is impossible? Heaven forbid. It is His will that we live according to that pattern of holiness that He has taught us from His Word. WE are challenged to live lives that are controlled by the Word and the Spirit both of which will guide us into victory over the world, the flesh and the devil. Titus 2:11-12

How important can holiness be? It is required if we are to stand in the presence of the Lord. Peace and holiness are important elements of the Christian walk today. Heb. 12:14 

Serve Him in honor and in holiness and righteousness the whole span of our life and sojourn here in this world and in this life. The Lord is desirous of examples of His holiness here and now in this life. Lk. 1:74-75 




                    THE CHURCH                          41

I AM CRUCIFIED WITH CHRIST. 
A necessary experience for the Bride of Christ. Crucifixion speaks of just one thing, and that is death to self, to the old nature, to the carnal man. In order for the life of Christ to be fully manifest in us, we must be crucified with the Lord Jesus. 

Paul is not speaking of natural death, for he said: I live, but it is not the former life that he is now living, it is that new life in Christ Jesus. There is a life, while still in this body, that reaches into that which is everlasting and eternal. A place where the completeness of His life is lived in the Christian. Gal. 2:20 

Paul did not revel or boast in his many achievements both academically and spiritually but in the cross of Christ. For, through the cross the world and its evil and wickedness had been crucified to him. He was released from all its bondage and control. He lived for Christ alone. Gal. 6:14


SIN SHALL NOT REIGN. 
Providing we have died to self but are living unto Christ, its forces and powers are defeated in a life that has died to self. The problem is with the "old man" that at times, if he is not dead, will usurp his authority and take control much to the consternation and embarrassment of the individual involved. Rom. 6:12 

Surrender and commitment may go either way, to sin or to righteousness. It is at this point that our determination and resolution to fully serve the Lord is tested. When we yield to the Lord the result is the joy of righteousness. Rom. 6:13 

We are to be free from the law of sin and death. Liberated from all of its influences and powers. We now must live by the law of the Spirit of life that is in Christ Jesus. There is a deeper life in Christ than that which is lived by most Christians today, May the Lord help us to attain it. Rom. 8:2


QUICKENED TO LIVE THE LORDS LIFE. 
Quickened, made to be alive, living His life, while still in the flesh. Brought to life while we were dead in trespasses and sins. He has imparted His life and is sharing it with His people. Eph. 2:5 

In the process He forgave us all our sins, they are pardoned, they are eliminated as far as He is concerned. Col. 2:13

Resurrection power being manifest in us, when we have died with Christ. There is a companionship, a togetherness that is our right and privilege in the Lord Jesus. While here on earth we are granted the right to be in Christ Jesus, in heavenly spheres. That is, in the atmosphere of heaven. Enjoying the might and power of His glorious presence. Paul is not saying that He will raise us up at some future day, but He HAS raised us up and caused us to sit in heavenly places. Eph. 2:6 

Likewise in Eph. 1:3, He HAS poured out upon us all spiritual blessings. It is an accomplished fact and something that we should be taking an advantage of. The mighty blessings of heaven are there for us, if we would only reach out and claim them for our benefit and blessing. Remember, no good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly.  Ps. 84:11




                     THE CHURCH                         42

ALIVE UNTO GOD. 
The church and every individual in it is a living organism, dead to self and sin but alive unto Christ with His life being made known through the church. Rom. 6:11 

The church must come to an understanding that she has been purchased. Something that has been acquired in this fashion is of great value to the purchaser. There has never been a price paid for any item that is greater than what Christ paid for the church. What a tremendous value He has placed on her. Purchased with His own blood. The very blood of God Himself. Dying as a man would be a great price, but dying as the Son of God who left heaven for this very purpose was the highest and maximum price. Every member of the body of Christ has been purchased with the same amazing cost. Acts 20:28 

An item that has been bought by an individual becomes the property of that person. Every person who would be a member of the body of Christ must recognize That they are no longer their own, to act upon their own desires and to do their own will. The price has been paid in full. The transaction is completed.

The contract, the covenant has been sealed. The Lord has accomplished His portion of the deal. The church must now acknowledge that she is no longer her own, to do as she pleases but must now please Him. This is not a sacrifice nor a loss of freedom. The rewards are tremendous and are of great value. 1 Cor. 6:19-20 


LOVE IS MEASURED BY COMMITMENT. 
The greatest love of time and eternity, is the love of God. For God so loved. John 3:16 

Christ so loved the church, His bride to be, that He gave Himself for it. Eph. 5:25 

There is no possibility of a greater love nor of a greater covenant of love. From eternity past, whenever the plan of salvation was contrived, the Son was committed to do what was necessary to accomplish His work in obtaining a bride. He gave Himself for us, that we might be redeemed and set free from all iniquity and sin. That He might purify for Himself those who are His, exclusively. A very special and unique gathering of saints. Jesus is not willing to share those who are His, with another. They are a people of great zeal in their association with Christ. Their attraction, love and desire is all for Him. Titus 2:14 

There is a godly jealousy that even Paul experienced in relationship to the bride. 2 Cor. 11:2  


SET YOUR AFFECTIONS. 
Let the love, devotion and passion of your heart be established on Christ and those things that are eternal and not on the things of this earth. Earthly treasures are all temporary and transitory, they will all pass away. We may use them, but when they use us, we are in great trouble. That which occupies our time, our efforts and our devotion is evidence of where our affections are focused. Only that which is Spiritual and above is lasting. When we have touched, for ourselves, the death, burial and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ, we become centered on those things which are Spiritual and for eternity. Col. 3:1-3 




                      THE CHURCH                    43

HIS LIFE IS TO BE OUR LIFE, NOW. 
Those who are alive in Christ, are in a process of dying to self and the flesh. For only in this fashion may the life of the Lord Jesus Christ be revealed in our mortal body. 

Because of its unpleasantness this is an experience that is grossly ignored by the church of today. That is why the church is looking and acting more like the world than the New Testament church. There is more entertainment in the church than in the theater. 

Christ must be the center and the heart of the church or the church will no longer exist as such. The imparted life of the Lord Jesus is far more attractive and beneficial than any amount of recreation that is supplied by the church as a substitute. Build and maintain a strong spiritual emphases centered on prayer and the Word. 2 Cor. 4:11


AN EXCELLENT WEAPON FOR SPIRITUAL WARFARE. 
Paul made a bold statement when he said; "but we have the mind of Christ". When we have His mind, we will think as He thinks, we will act as He acts and we will certainly know and do His perfect will. 1 Cor. 2:16 

A mind renewed by the Spirit of God is the mind of Christ and should be evidenced in each and every member of the body of Christ. This not just a " made over " mind but a mind that is made new by the power of Christ. It will think after the things of he Spirit and no longer after the ways of the flesh. Eph. 4:23-24 

The health or disciplined mind is the gift of the Lord and is evidence of a mind that is the mind of Christ. Because it is His mind, it does not know fear but is a mind of love and power. 2 Tim. 1:7 

A contrast made between the old carnal mind and the new mind in Christ Jesus. The mind of Christ is pure, clean and unsoiled with the filthiness of his world. The carnal mind is corrupt, unbelieving and void of anything that is pure and holy. It is soiled and corrupted. Titus 1:15 

To possess the mind of Christ will create complete unity in the body of Christ. Disunity is an evidence of the carnal mind at work in the church. Unity is when the whole body of believers have one and the same mind, that is, the mind of Christ. Manifest love and compassion one toward another, for that is the mind of Christ. 1 Pet. 3:8

The clothing of the chosen, among other things, involves humbleness of mind. This again follows the pattern of the mind of Christ, humility and respect one for another. Col. 3:12 

Perhaps the strongest statement made in the scripture pertaining to our subject is the precious invitation to partake of and possess the mind of Christ. His mind will and must be in us, only then can the true revelation of things spiritual be made known unto us. Phil. 2:5 

"Aim for perfection. NIV" Perfection requires absolute unity of mind and spirit. May it indeed be our goal as members of the body of Christ. Unity of mind will cause the power of the Lord to be exhibited for it assures us of His presence. Love and peace are self evident results of many members becoming a unit under the influence of the Word and the Spirit. He will do it. He will have a people for Himself. 2 Cor. 13:11     





                            THE CHURCH                  44

CHRIST SUFFERED FOR US. 
He offered His physical being as the perfect sacrifice for us. The Just One for all the unjust, The righteous for the unrighteous. His reason being that we might be brought into fellowship with God. His flesh was crucified but He was quickened by the Spirit unto life everlasting. Thus setting an example for those who would follow Him and in particular for we who live in the end of the age and have a desire to be in the Bride of Christ. 1 Pet. 3:18 

The church has been called to crucify their flesh that they might live in the power of the Spirit of the Lord. The person who has put to death the flesh, and all its corruption, will live joyfully and powerfully in the glory of the Spirit. The moving and operation of the Spirit is hindered and frequently tainted by the flesh or the carnal nature of man. It is time to recognize the call of the Spirit for the church to come to a place of separation between the flesh and the Spirit. Those who will die to the "old man" will find full and absolute victory over the powers of sin and carnality that are so rampant in the church. The dead man has
ceased from sin and iniquity. Heb. 4:10


THE EVIDENCE OF THE FULLNESS OF THAT NEW LIFE. 
We will NO LONGER spend the remaining days of our life here on earth living after the flesh and the worldly lusts that control the unspiritual man. We are exhorted, now that we have been born of the Spirit to live after the Spirit. That does sound reasonable, does it not? The full will of the Lord must become the purpose of our life. 1 Pet. 4:2 

There is a process found throughout the Word of the Lord that indicates the spiritual status of an individual. For instance, the newborn desire the pure spiritual milk of the word. There are certain elements of the old life that they will lay aside that they might achieve spiritual growth. Many times they are more earnest in their pursuit of spiritual things than those who have "been in the Way" for a longer period of time. A desire for the word indicates spiritual birth. 1 Pet. 2:2  

The length of time a person has been saved does not give evidence to their spiritual measure or state of being in the Lord. Some, never go beyond the baby stage. Having no desire for anything but the lightness, the frivolity, the social standing of the church crowd. At a time when they should be teachers they still have need to be taught the "FIRST PRINCIPLES" or the elementary teachings of the word. Too often, the spiritual standards of such lean toward permissiveness and the flesh. Heb. 5:12-13 

But, strong meat, the likes of which, those who have progressed beyond the baby stage, should be partaking of here and now, will create spiritual growth. It will give a comprehension of that which is good and right in the sight of the Lord. It will teach us in the way of righteousness and purity. It will cleanse and sanctify the whole man and bring the revelation of the Christ of God into the life of the believer. Heb. 5:14 

Lord, please give us a hunger for the depths of your Word and teach us how to study it, constantly.  



                     THE CHURCH            45

CONTRASTING AREAS OF WALK OR MANNER OF LIVING. 
The past was lived after the pattern of the world, following the example of parents, friends or persons admired, doing the works of the heathen or godless. Walking in all manner of unrighteousness, which some do, not realizing that the life lived in the flesh is contrary to the Lord or even that there is another style of life available. 1 Pet. 4:3 

The contrasting life is that lived in and with the blessing of the Holy Spirit. The true life of the Spirit is one of detachment from the works of the flesh. When the walk is in the Spirit the works of the flesh will not prevail. Gal. 5:16 

There will not be any difference between walking and living in the Spirit. Either action will enable the workings of the Spirit to prevail. Gal. 5:25 

It is the ordained will of the Lord that all who are born of the Spirit, walk in good works. Making known to the world that there is a God who dwells within us and is capable of helping us to live His life. Eph. 2:10 

Here is the key to the force that gives us the capability of living in the Spirit. It is love, the love of God that He has poured forth upon us. When we walk in His love we can face every situation that comes our way, and conquer it. His love in us will prevail. Eph. 5:2


FOR WE ARE THE TEMPLE OF THE LIVING GOD. 
A strong statement proclaiming the temple of the Lord to be totally His possession. He WILL live in them and walk among them. He WILL be their God and they WILL be His people. That which the Lord has designed to do, He will complete. This is His intent and divine design. The members that compose His temple cannot bear the likeness of a world of sin but must be isolated unto Him. Therefore the call is to come out from among them. Being set free from things that are unclean and impure. In so doing, acceptance is assured. We must understand that the Lord has a standard that He has established for His Bride. 2 Cor. 6:17 

As every husband has certain qualities and characteristics that he seeks in a bride. So the Lord will find a Bride that meets His divine requirements. She will be cleansed from all filthiness of the flesh and of the spirit. There are impurities of the spirit, manifestations and habits that are manifest that originate, not from the Spirit of the Lord but the spirit of man. They often imitate the functions of the Spirit but are not motivated by the Holy Spirit. Holiness is to reach its perfection in the Bride of Christ. 2 Cor. 7:1 

We are serving a God with whom nothing is impossible. Let us not limit Him in His capabilities to fulfill His designs. He will manifest His mighty works in His people and is preparing for Himself a bride that will be blameless and holy before Him. He has proclaimed and there is no doubt that He can execute His own divine aim and goal. 1 Thes.3:13 

The call of the Spirit and the instructions of the Word are designed to lead His church to complete purity and righteousness. 1 Thes. 4:7 

His church will be holy and without a single blemish. We dare believe the Lord to affirm His Word in many areas of our Christian walk, why do we doubt His ability to perfect a people for Himself. Eph. 5:27 

Oh ye of little faith.                




                   THE CHURCH            46

A THING OF THE PAST? 
"For WHEN we were in the flesh". When, is certainly past tense. This should make the works of the flesh to be an item of history. Something that no longer exists. WHEN we were in the flesh we were dominated by sin and its passions, which can only lead to spiritual death and ultimately natural death. Rom. 7:5 

For WE WERE, again a statement referring to that which was at one time, or the past. This is followed by a listing of those things that were once practiced. NOW, and this is where we are to live as those born of the Spirit. We have been born of the Spirit, washed by virtue of rebirth and renewed to be in Christ, by the
Spirit of the Lord. Titus 3:3-5 

IN TIMES PAST, our manner of life followed the ways of this world. Even being dominated by the ruler of the air, the powers of darkness. The spirit of wickedness that works in all who are walking contrary to the will of the Lord. At "ONE TIME" our lives and our conduct was seeking to gratify the longings and lusts of the soul. That is the way of death, dead in trespasses and sin. BUT, we met Christ and have been awakened to life, life in its fullness now, and life eternal with Him. All because of His mercy and love. Eph. 2:3-5

BUT NOW, WE ARE TO BE FREE FROM SIN. Where once we were the servants of sin, overwhelmed and over powered and dominated by its force. We have been set free to become servants of the Most High God. To love and worship Him with our whole man, spirit, soul and body. Dedicated and sold out to Him. Now, bringing forth fruit of holiness which has its reward unto life everlasting. Rom. 6:22 

Now, we present our bodies a living sacrifice to the Lord. Where once we served sin, our purpose today is to
serve the Lord in righteousness. A child of God will not be in subjection or ruled by sin. We are not required to submit to the law but are led and nourished by the grace of God, which causes us to conqueror sin and iniquity. Rom. 6:13-14 

NOW, NO CONDEMNATION. 
What a glorious and wonderful difference Christ makes in the human heart. Condemnation, guilt, accusation, what a burden to bear. What anguish of heart, soul and spirit. All needlessly borne. For Christ will lift the condemnation and bring sweet release and freedom. To those who will consecrate themselves to live and walk in the Spirit there is constant liberty. But to those who walk in the lusts and workings of the flesh, there can be nothing but condemnation. Rom. 8:1 

As always, it is the Word that accomplishes the release and freedom that is in Christ Jesus. Hearing and believing are the elements of faith that work in us to bring forth that life that is Christ. We know, that where there is no condemnation, our sins have been pardoned and we stand before the Lord in absolute freedom. We have passed from death to eternal life in the Lord Jesus Christ. What a privilege to be enabled to walk in the Spirit of the living God and be acknowledged as one of His very own. John 5:24
 


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