Category: sin

Time Travel and the Mystery #9

Thursday, November 20, 2014

“But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory” (1 Corinthians 2:7,8 KJV).

Will it ever be possible to manipulate natural laws, to travel back in time and manipulate events, that things (hopefully) turn out differently? Let us consider today’s Scripture.

Verse 6, which immediately precedes today’s Scripture, says: “Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought:”

“Not the wisdom of this world”—the Apostle Paul did not preach what lost mankind thinks God needs to do, think, and say. “Not the wisdom of the princes of this world”—the Apostle Paul did not preach what Satan and his cohorts believe they should do, think, and say. Whether sinful mankind who followed him, or wicked Satan who began the rebellion against the Creator God, their plans to rob Jesus Christ of His worship and preeminence will ultimately “come to nought.” Fail!

The God of the Bible would remind all Bible critics, Christ-haters, and self-worshippers, all those who will fight against His purpose and plan until the day they die, “Despite your refusal to participate in accomplishing My will, My Son Jesus Christ will still be glorified forever in heaven and earth. Nothing, absolutely nothing, will stop it. Give it your best effort to hinder My eternal purpose. My chief enemy, Satan, whom you serve, gave it his best and lost it all, so you too will lose!”

“The Lord of glory” (today’s Scripture) is a title that identifies Jesus Christ as the original preeminent one in creation: Father God invented a plan, “Glory,” to glorify His Son in heaven and earth. In spite of the widespread rebellion (sin), Father God will still accomplish what He originally intended in creation. Absolutely no one will permanently hinder Him. Paul preached that, in the end, despite all the opposition, God’s wisdom will prevail and His plan will succeed!

Friends, let us now conclude this devotionals arc…

Time Travel and the Mystery #6

Monday, November 17, 2014

“But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory” (1 Corinthians 2:7,8 KJV).

Will it ever be possible to manipulate natural laws, to travel back in time and manipulate events, that things (hopefully) turn out differently? Let us consider today’s Scripture.

Colossians 2:13-15 explains: “[13] [God]…having forgiven you all trespasses; [14] Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; [15] And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.” As today’s Scripture says, it was through Calvary’s finished crosswork that Jesus Christ overcame sin, death, and Satan and his cohorts. Imagine Satan’s utter embarrassment when he learned from Paul’s ministry how God made a spectacle of him and his policy of evil; he was so horrified to discover that he had actually contributed to his own downfall. A plan he had labored so hard and so long to accomplish, and now he himself had permanently ruined it!

Jesus Christ’s blood shed at Calvary currently enables God to save us, formerly pagan Gentile sinners headed for hell, to baptize us into the Body of Christ by the Holy Spirit when we trust that shed blood alone (1 Corinthians 12:13). Why does God save us? Not just to keep us out of hell, but to use us corporately in the heavenly places in the ages to come, for Jesus Christ’s glory (“our glory” of today’s Scripture; cf. Colossians 3:4; 2 Thessalonians 2:14). We Christians will be glorified one day so, ultimately, Jesus Christ will be glorified in and through us throughout eternity future (Romans 8:17-25)!

As we saw earlier, Colossians 1:16-20 also provides clarity regarding Israel’s program and God’s restoration of Earth. God the Father will use Christ’s shed blood to ratify the New Covenant, allowing Him to redeem Israel from their sins (Hebrews 10:1-25).

With all that as “background,” we proceed to analyze today’s Scripture with its context….

Our latest Bible Q&A: “How is mankind ‘lower than the angels?’”

Time Travel and the Mystery #5

Sunday, November 16, 2014

“But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory” (1 Corinthians 2:7,8 KJV).

Will it ever be possible to manipulate natural laws, to travel back in time and manipulate events, that things (hopefully) turn out differently? Let us consider today’s Scripture.

In the “sister” epistles of Ephesians and Colossians, the Apostle Paul describes the reason for God forming the Church the Body of Christ. God’s “eternal purpose” (Ephesians 3:11) is to, “in the dispensation of the fulness of times,” “gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth” (Ephesians 1:9,10).

Colossians 1:16-20 amplifies: “[16] For by him [Jesus Christ] were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: [17] And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. [18] And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. [19] For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; [20] And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.”

Prior to Paul, God revealed that He would use Israel to reconcile Earth unto Himself; but He kept secret how He would reconcile Heaven unto Himself. Now, with the mystery disclosed through Paul’s epistles, we see that God is using Jesus Christ’s shed blood to form a body of believers (the Church the Body of Christ) that will do in Heaven what Israel will do on Earth—make Jesus Christ preeminent in all of creation’s governments (His original plan before sin entered!).

Let us further examine how Christ’s shed blood develops God’s eternal purpose….

Time Travel and the Mystery #3

Friday, November 14, 2014

“But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory” (1 Corinthians 2:7,8 KJV).

Will it ever be possible to manipulate natural laws, to travel back in time and manipulate events, that things (hopefully) turn out differently? Let us consider today’s Scripture.

The Prophets Isaiah (14:12-15) and Ezekiel (28:11-19), when describing Israel’s future re-gathering and restoration into God’s earthly kingdom, recapitulate Satan’s policy of evil and its ultimate failure. Isaiah noted Lucifer had sought to “be like the most High, possessor of heaven and earth” (Isaiah 14:14; cf. Genesis 14:19,22).

When Genesis 1:1 says, “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth,” Colossians 1:16 explains: “For by [the Lord Jesus Christ] were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:” Heaven and Earth were designed with offices of government to run their operations to Jesus Christ’s glory. We see only Earth’s offices, but the same terminology is used for those in Heaven. Lucifer wanted to take over Heaven and Earth, have their governments glorify him and advance his will. God told Lucifer, “Thou hast defiled thy sanctuaries by the multitude of thy traffick;…” (Ezekiel 28:18). Satan recruited many angels to rebel in Heaven with him; hence, God cast him to Earth (Luke 10:18).

Satan then attacked and recruited to his side newly-formed Adam and Eve, God’s king and queen over Earth (Genesis 1:26-28; Genesis 3:1-24). Having now captured offices in Heaven and Earth, Satan relentlessly disrupted God’s efforts to restore Earth to Himself. Satan used Cain to murder righteous Abel, evil spirits to bring about a Global Flood and the destruction of most of mankind, false prophets to mislead God’s people Israel, having them finally kill Messiah Jesus. The Devil became so focused on Earth because God kept His plan for restoring Heaven, a secret. As today’s Scripture says, Satan eventually learned Messiah’s death was his deathblow instead….

Time Travel and the Mystery #2

Thursday, November 13, 2014

“But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory” (1 Corinthians 2:7,8 KJV).

Will it ever be possible to manipulate natural laws, to travel back in time and manipulate events, that things (hopefully) turn out differently? Let us consider today’s Scripture.

Satan has always recognized God as the most powerful; however, he, operating with a very demented mindset, still seeks to outwit his Creator and prove himself to be the wisest. Ever since he became “lifted up,” prideful (1 Timothy 3:6), ever since he fell in love with himself (Ezekiel 28:15-19), Lucifer/Satan has sought so desperately to deflect and receive the recognition and worship that only belongs to the Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 4:8-10 and Luke 4:5-8 thus explained).

The Bible says Lucifer, Satan’s name before his fall from the third heaven, purposed to “be like the most High, possessor of heaven and earth” (Isaiah 14:14; cf. Genesis 14:19,22). Down through Bible history, and up to the present-day, Satan has contrived and implemented various “wiles,” schemes and scams, to achieve his original goal (Ephesians 6:10-12). The Devil still distracts people from Jesus Christ, and causes them to focus on something or someone else (himself, themselves, other people, pagan idols, good works, et cetera).

No human can ever really keep a secret—he or she has to tell at least one other person, and eventually, it is common knowledge to many. However, God had to keep, and did keep, a secret for at least 4,000 years; the triune God withheld that secret, neither telling angel nor human until the appropriate time came. He knew that His chief enemy, Satan, was a very wise spirit-creature (originally created to devise ways to glorify his Creator, the Lord Jesus Christ, now devising ways to glorify himself). The way to ultimately defeat Satan was to outsmart him. Today’s Scripture says God Almighty did exactly that, glorifying Jesus Christ forever in the process, undoubtedly demonstrating who was the wisest of all….

The Greatest Veteran

Tuesday, November 11, 2014

“Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; and having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it” (Colossians 2:14,15 KJV).

Today is Veterans’ Day in the United States, so let us especially thank the “Greatest Veteran of All Time.”

We thank veterans, living and departed, the often-forgotten men and women who risked their lives to secure our freedom. Just as we remember flesh-and-blood veterans who fought for our physical liberty, we reserve our worship and utmost respect for the least esteemed Veteran, He who secured our spiritual liberty.

“But thanks be to God, which giveth us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57). Through Christ’s finished crosswork on Calvary, we have eternal victory over sin, death, hell, and Satan. Everything that God has planned for us is dependent upon Christ’s victory at Calvary.

Jesus Christ nailed the Mosaic Law to His cross (today’s Scripture). His sinless blood covered our failure to obey God’s laws; Jesus’ righteousness annulled our unrighteousness (sin). Christ not only liberated us from sin and its penalty (the everlasting lake of fire), but today’s Scripture affirms He also triumphed over Satan himself!

Christ has “spoiled [destroyed] principalities and powers [Satan’s power], he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it [His cross].” Jesus Christ destroyed Satan’s plans. Through Christ’s cross, God has “delivered us from the power of darkness” (Colossians 1:13), Satan’s evil system of Ephesians 2:1-3.

During a recent cemetery visit, I noticed American flags flying above deceased veterans’ headstones. These individuals can no longer hear or regard our thanks, but Jesus Christ’s body is not decaying in some tomb. If there ever was a Veteran most worthy of our gratitude, it is our Lord Jesus Christ. Though He died in battle, allowing Himself to be executed on a Roman cross of shame and scorn, He resurrected. He is alive and well today, alive forevermore!

Saints, eternity will ring with our thanks to the Veteran worth thanking, the Lord Jesus Christ. 🙂

*Adapted from our 2010 Bible study, “The Greatest Hero.” The Bible study video can be viewed here.

Natural-Man Wisdom and Divine Wisdom

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

“There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death” (Proverbs 14:12 KJV).

Beware of natural-man wisdom, for it naturally leads to death!

The following quote personifies human viewpoint: “In my belief one only needs to be a moral person and have faith [to be saved]. With the multitude of different religious groups that all revolve around Christianity and Judaism are you really that certain that the word that you read is to be taken word for word as written and all others are wrong? This would seem to me rather arrogant and to be a sin as well. It is not our position to judge. Have faith whatever it may be, be a moral person and in my belief you will be saved.”

Is it not fascinating that this individual posited that we Bible-believers should not “judge” those who disagree with us, but then he freely “judges” the “immoral” by saying only the “moral” can be saved? Furthermore, for him to claim “morality” means he believes there is absolute right and absolute wrong (but all religions disagree regarding what is “right” and “wrong,” so arguing “morality equals heaven” is far-fetched).

Why do I believe the Bible “word-for-word?” Firstly, it says, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Every person in the world testifies to the truth of this verse—sin exists (we cannot avoid it)! Secondly, it says, “The wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23a). Every cemetery in the world testifies to the truth of this verse—sin kills (we cannot live here forever)! Thirdly, it says, “Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in [God’s] sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin” (Romans 3:20). Every religion in the world testifies to the truth of this verse—sin damns (we cannot perform perfectly)! Lastly, it says, “The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23b). Every Christian in the world testifies to the truth of this verse—Christ saves (we can trust Him alone for salvation)!

Ultimately, it is not arrogance. It is confidence! 🙂

For the Good of the People

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

“Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom is a right sceptre. Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness: therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows” (Psalm 45:6,7 KJV).

Never forget that it is only in the Lord Jesus Christ that we find political salvation.

Dear friends, the word “politician” has become increasingly unpopular here in the United States. Many who claim to seek “our best interests” are incompetent, unwilling and/or unable to address the numerous issues still facing our beloved nation. Yes, here, and in nations worldwide, paperwork, political privileges, and partisanship often come before people. The mainstream media does not report valuable stories that inform the public, just “feel-good fluff” accounts that warn the heart and waste the mind. Satan’s agenda is simple: suppress the truth and spread error. The religious, economic, educational, political, and social systems are all “arms” of Satan’s evil world system. But, praise God, those “arms” will be broken one day!

The writer of Hebrews (1:8,9) quoted today’s Scripture to describe when Father God elects Jesus Christ as Earth’s King. Jeremiah 23:5,6 confirms: “[5] Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. [6] In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.” And, Psalm 89:14, “Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face.”

God instituted national governments in Genesis chapter 9 to maintain order and He established country borders in chapter 10, but Satan is usurping those power structures. A corrupt government is not isolated to this country; every nation has Satan as its “god” (2 Corinthians 4:4). Thankfully, this is not as good as it will ever get. The day is coming when Jesus Christ will reign as “KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS” (Revelation 19:16). He will remove Satan, uphold God’s Word, and execute true justice, forevermore reigning truly for the good of His people! “Come, Lord Jesus!”

Wayward or Wise

Monday, November 3, 2014

“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise” (Proverbs 12:15 KJV).

Today’s Scripture says we can be wayward, or we can be wise—one or the other is everyone before God’s eyes.

Sin is being our own authority, our operating independently of how God designed us to function. For 6,000 years now, the God of the Bible has tolerated our species, the sinful human race. Despite our technological advances that have made life easier, we are still so perplexed as to how to solve our basic problem, sin, that makes life harder.

For three years, the Lord Jesus Christ labored so fervently, so diligently, to turn around the nation He had delivered from Egyptian bondage 1,500 years earlier. He preached, and confirmed with miracles, that He was their long-promised Messiah—willing to evict their Gentile enemies and introduce Israel’s earthly kingdom. Yet, Israel largely disregarded Him. Precious few Jews, those who wisely hearkened to that divine counsel, trusted Him as Christ.

Chiefly, Israel’s works-religion—their striving to be accepted of God—was “right in [their] own eyes.” They refused to hear about their sin; they rejected the counsel Jesus Christ was providing through His sermons and miraculous demonstrations. The Lord Jesus spoke to unbelieving Jews in John 5:39,40: “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.” Contrary to “irresistible grace,” one of the tenets of Calvinism, God never forces Himself on anyone who rejects Him. He gives them over to what they prefer. Jesus continued, “I am come in my Father’s name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive” (verse 43). They did not want Jesus as Christ, so God will one day give Israel a false Messiah, the satanic Antichrist, one who will deceive them and they will gladly have him!

May we wisely come to Jesus Christ as He is presented in Paul’s epistles, Romans through Philemon. Otherwise, we are just as wayward as Israel was in time past.

In Him and Not in Hell

Tuesday, October 28, 2014

“And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith” (Philippians 3:9 KJV).

Before we can have a right standing before God, we must realize our wrong standing before God.

A dear lady I shared the Gospel with not many weeks ago told me, “I think I will go to heaven. Now if I commit some horrible sin just before I die, then I will go to purgatory.” Like so many, she needed to realize that the ultimate sin is to believe we can live a perfect life to make God so happy with us that He will have no choice but to let us into heaven, that we can supplement and/or substitute Jesus Christ’s life and righteousness with our own, that we call God a liar by saying our sin nature can still offer so much as one work that is pleasing in His sight, that Jesus Christ failed to do what we must do.

When I asked this lady on the basis of what five minutes her life would be totally acceptable to God, what five minutes of her living were 100 percent perfect and made her worthy of heaven, she confessed she had no such five minutes; that is when she realized that that failure is sin, that her lack of assurance was a sign she was headed to anywhere but heaven!

I began to share with her the wonderful news of God’s righteousness in Jesus Christ received by simple faith in Him alone (today’s Scripture). God is offering us a place in heaven as a free gift and we cannot work for a gift (otherwise it becomes a debt). If we so much as believe we can work enough to add to Jesus’s perfect sacrifice, then we are telling God we want to pay for our own sins; the place where God’s wrath against our sin is appeased, is the lake of fire, and it burns forever because God’s wrath against our sin can and will never be appeased apart from Jesus Christ’s suffering at Calvary. Let us be found in Him, and not found in hell!

Our latest Bible Q&A: “Why did God ask where Adam was?”