We are being set apart, consecrated and sanctified:-
1. Firstly by HIS EXTREME LOVE for US
IN this blog we are doing a brief study from scripture on the principles of being set apart, consecrated and sanctified. If we look at PALAH, the Hebrew word for being “set apart” the following descriptions are linked to this word. PALAH stands for ‘to be distinguished’, ‘to be shown to be marvelous’, ‘to be separated’, ‘severed’ and ‘to be made wonderfully‘.
Luk 15:7
(7) I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.
Luk 15:21-24
(21) And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.’
(22) “But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring out the best robe(anointing) and put it on him, and put a ring(covenant) on his hand and sandals(calling) on his feet.
(23) And bring the fatted calf(abundant provision) here and kill it (by Christ’s sacrifice), and let us eat and be merry(joy of the Lord-our strength);
(24) for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost(destroyed, perish, marred, die) and is found(find, get, obtain, perceive, see).’ And they began to be merry.
2Ch 16:9
For the eyes of the LORD run to and for throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of thosewhose heart is loyal(full, just, made ready, peaceable, perfect, quiet, whole, complete) to Him.
2. WE ARE SET APART TO FULFILL GOD’S PURPOSES AND PLAN; TO UNITE IN HIS PURPOSE
Psa 4:3 But know that the LORD has set apart (PALAH; to distinguish, show to be marvelous, separate, sever, make wonderfully) for Himself him who is godly; The LORD will hear when I call to Him.
Exo 28:3 So you shall speak to all who are gifted artisans, whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, that they may make Aaron’s garments, to consecrate (KAWDASH; to be/pronounced/observed to be clean, purify, sanctify, keep holy, proclaim) him, that he may minister to Me as priest.
Jer 29:11-14
(11) For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of PEACE (well, safe, happy, friendly, favor, prosperity, safe at mind, full, wholly, welfare, rest, health, perfect, salute) and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
(12) Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.
(13) And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.
(14) I will be found by you, says the LORD, and I will bring you back from your captivity; I will gather you from all the nations and from all the places where I have driven you, says the LORD, and I will bring you to the place from which I cause you to be carried away captive.
Php 1:6 being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ;
Php 1:10-11
(10) that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ,
(11) being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.
3. WE ARE SET APART TO MINISTER UNTO THE LORD
WE come to the Lord to offer a sacrifice on the altar by fire. The offering we bring to the altar is ourselves. We are called by the Lord to bring ourselves as a living sacrifice. This means that we lay down our lives and this presents a sweet smell to the Lord. As the bread is pleasing to our pallets, just the same is our consecration a sweet smell to our Father.
Exo 28:41 So you shall put them on Aaron your brother and on his sons with him. You shall anoint them, consecrate them, and sanctify them, that they may minister to Me as priests.
Lev 20:7 Consecrate yourselves therefore, and be holy, for I am the LORD your God.
Lev 21:6 They shall be holy to their God and not profane the name of their God, for they offer the offerings of the LORD made by fire, and the bread of their God; therefore they shall be holy.
Lev 21:8 Therefore you shall consecrate him, for he offers the bread of your God. He shall be holy to you, for I the LORD, who sanctify you, am holy.
John Gill: “and the bread of their God do they offer; the shew-bread, which they set every week before the Lord on the shew-bread table, …, the “minchah”, which they continually offered along with the sacrifices: or the word “and”, being a supplement, may be left out; and so this clause is put by way of apposition, and as interpreting the fire offering to be the bread of their God, which being wholly burnt on the altar, and devoted to God, was his meat and food, and accepted by him, see Lev 3:11,” FOOD:(battle, overcome, make war, prevail)
Therefore they shall be holy; separate from all others, and abstain from all impurity both of flesh and spirit, from all uncleanness, moral and ceremonial; it being highly fit and proper that the bread of God should be offered by holy persons.
But God would not permit the blood, that made atonement, to be used as a common thing (Heb 10:29), nor will he allow us, though we have the comfort of the atonement made, to assume to ourselves any share in the honor of making it. He that glories, let him glory in the Lord, and to his praise let all the blood be poured out.
John Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible
Lev 3:16 the priest shall burn them on the altar as food, offered by fire, for a sweet and satisfying fragrance. All the fat is the Lord’s.
1Ch 15:12 He said to them, “You are the heads of the fathers’ houses of the Levites; sanctify yourselves, you and your brethren, that you may bring up the ark( presence) of the LORD God of Israel to the place I have prepared for it.
4. WE ARE SET APART TO PURIFY AND CONSECRATE ONE SELF
IN YOUR WOUNDEDNESS and AFFLICTION / SICKNESS & DISEASE
– An example of being set apart, consecration and sanctification is when A BABY BOY is being circumcised on the eight day
– A LADY AFTER CHILDBIRTH and IMPURITY has to sanctify herself
Exo 13:2 “Consecrate to Me all the firstborn, whatever opens the womb among the children of Israel, both of man and beast; it is Mine.”
Exo 19:10 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Go to the people and consecrate them today and tomorrow, and let them wash their clothes.
Jos 7:13 Get up, sanctify the people, and say, ‘Sanctify yourselves for tomorrow, because thus says the LORD God of Israel: “There is an accursed thing in your midst, O Israel; you cannot stand before your enemies until you take away the accursed thing from among you.
5. WE ARE SET APART AND CONSECRATED FOR WAR AND AT SPECIAL OCCASIONS
Jdg 7:5 So he brought the people down to the water. And the LORD said to Gideon, “Everyone who laps from the water with his tongue, as a dog laps, you shall set apart by himself; likewise everyone who gets down on his knees to drink.
Joe 2:13-17
13 So rend your heart, and not your garments; Return to the LORD your God, For He is gracious and merciful, Slow to anger, and of great kindness; And He relents from doing harm.
14 Who knows if He will turn and relent, And leave a blessing behind Him—A grain offering and a drink offering For the LORD your God?
15 Blow the trumpet in Zion, Consecrate a fast, Call a sacred assembly;
16 Gather the people, Sanctify the congregation, Assemble the elders, Gather the children and nursing babes; Let the bridegroom go out from his chamber, And the bride from her dressing room.
17 Let the priests, who minister to the LORD, Weep between the porch and the altar; Let them say, “Spare Your people, O LORD, And do not give Your heritage to reproach, That the nations should rule over them. Why should they say among the peoples, ‘Where is their God?’ ”
Mic 4:13 “Arise and thresh, O daughter of Zion; For I will make your horn iron, And I will make your hooves bronze; You shall beat in pieces many peoples; I will consecrate their gain to the LORD, And their substance to the Lord of the whole earth.”
Jos 3:5 And Joshua said to the people, “Sanctify yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do wonders among you.”
New King James Bible
6. GOD SANCTIFIES HIS OWN NAME and SETS US APART FOR HIS NAMES’ SAKE
I Will Put My Spirit Within You
Eze 36:22-27
22 “Therefore say to the house of Israel, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD: “I do not do this for your sake, O house of Israel, but for My holy name’s sake, which you have profaned among the nations wherever you went.
23 And I will sanctify My great name, which has been profaned among the nations, which you have profaned in their midst; and the nations shall know that I am the LORD,” says the Lord GOD, “when I am hallowed in you before their eyes.
24 For I will take you from among the nations, gather you out of all countries, and bring you into your own land.
25 Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean; I will cleanse you from all your filthiness and from all your idols.
26 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.
27 I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them.
7. JESUS’S PRAYER TO THE FATHER TO SANCTIFY US – FOR US TO BE ABLE TO MINISTER & LIVE BY HIM; WHO IS THE TRUTH
Joh 17:17-19
(17) Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.
(18) As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world.
(19) And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth.
Heb 10:29Welcomed into His presence by the Blood
(29) Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing, and insulted the Spirit of grace?
8. WE ARE ENCOURAGED TO START FULFILLING OUR LIFE’S PURPOSE BY LOVING GOD FIRST & OURSELVES IN ORDER THAT WE CAN LOVE OTHERS
Mat 22:37-40
(37) Jesus said to him, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.’
(38) This is the first and great commandment.
(39) And the second is like it: ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’
(40) On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”
9. WE ARE SET APART IN OUR OWN ‘DYING TO SELF’; TO RISE UP THROUGH REBIRTH IN FAITH UNTO LIFE
1Th 5:23 Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Heb 13:12-14
(12) Therefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people with His own blood, suffered outside the gate.
(13) Therefore let us go forth to Him, outside the camp, bearing His reproach.
(14) For here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come.
10. WE ARE SET APART IN OUR DAILY MISSION
GO AND DO WHAT GOD HAS CALLED YOU TO DO TODAY. ONLY YOU CAN PERFORM THAT TASK
HEBREWS 13:15-16
(15) Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.
(16) But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
:20-21
(20) Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
(21) make you complete in every good workto do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
:19-24
(19) Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus,
(20) by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, (21) and having a High Priest over the house of God,
(22) let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.
(23) Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.
(24) And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works.
1. HIS CONQUERING BLOOD ASSURES US RESURRECTION LIFE – That is to live an enfused SPIRIT-LED LIFE
LIVING AMONGST THE LIVING
IF….
IF LOVE covers a multitude of sins and …. and GOD IS LOVE – which HE IS!!!
If His MERCIES are NEW every morning… enabling us then to receive our Healing, Wisdom, Strength, Hope, Faith, Grace…. for each New Day afresh…
If the WORD is the TRUTH and ALIVE IN US…
2Jn 1:2 (2) Because of the Truth which lives and stays on in our hearts and will be with us forever:
IF….
If THANKSGIVING is the KEY to ENTER the Gates of His kingdom…
Psa 100:4 Enter into His gates with THANKSGIVING, And into His courts with PRAISE. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.
If PRAISE gives me the AUTHORITY to stand in His Courts to execute His Will…
2Co 4:15 For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God.
If GRACE abounds where sin increases… for us to be SAVED from Utter destruction BY GRACE….
Rom 5:20 Moreover the law entered that the offense might abound. But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more,
THEN SURELY HIS BLOOD has then…:
COMPLETED the UTMOST QUEST for LIFE!!!
Deu 32:4 He is the Rock, His work is perfect; For all His ways are justice, A God of truth and without injustice; Righteous and upright is He.
His Blood ANSWERED all the accusations
It reaches the deepest deep
It Satisfies all the charges that the enemy can ever bring into the courts against us
It places us in an unassailable bond with the Father
1Sa 12:24 Only fear the LORD, and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you.
It provides All provision needed to live this live IN Full, To His Glory!
2Co9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work.
HIS Blood has power to cover the most adverse of situations, sins, losses, failures, difficulties, trials, challenges… in people’s lives
HIS CONQUERING BLOOD ASSURES US RESURRECTION LIFE
Mar 5:41 Then He took the child by the hand, and said to her, “Talitha, cumi,” which is translated, “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” Luk 8:54 …took her by the hand and called, saying, “Little girl, arise.”
ARISE CUMI – Hebrew H6965 qûm koom A primitive root; to rise : – abide, accomplish, confirm, continue, decree, endure, enjoin, get up, make good, help, hold, (help to) lift up (again), make, ordain, perform, raise (up), rear (up), remain, (a-) rise (up) (again, against), rouse up, set (up), (e-) stablish, (make to) stand (up), stir up, strengthen, succeed, (as-, make) sure (-ly), (be) up (-hold, -rising).
ARISE – Greek G1453 egeirō eg-i’-ro collecting one’s faculties; to waken, that is, rouse (literally from sleep, from sitting or lying, from disease, from death; or figuratively from obscurity, inactivity, ruins, nonexistence): – awake, lift (up), raise (again, up), rear up, (a-) rise (again, up), stand, take up.
IT TRANSFORMS the LOWEST LOW to the HIGHEST HIGH
Rev 1:18 And the Ever-living One [I am living in the eternity of the eternities]. I died, but see, I am alive forevermore; and I possess the keys of death and Hades.
IT CONQUERS THE DARKEST DARK – Those who are hell-bound, sickness stricken can say
Isa 61:1 “The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon Me, Because the LORD has anointed Me To preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the broken-hearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives, And the opening of the prison to those who are bound;
IT REVERSE & REBUILD, IT STRENGTHEN
Jer 33:7-8 (7) And I will cause the captivity of Judah and the captivity of Israel to be reversed and will rebuild them as they were at first. (8) And I will cleanse them from all the guilt and iniquity by which they have sinned against Me, and I will forgive all their guilt and iniquities by which they have sinned and rebelled against Me.
IT CURES 12 years of unnecessary blood flow
Luk 8:43-48 (43) And a woman who had suffered from a flow of blood for twelve years and had spent all her living upon physicians, and could not be healed by anyone, (44) Came up behind Him and touched the fringe of His garment, and immediately her flow of blood ceased. (45) And Jesus said, Who is it who touched Me? When all were denying it, Peter and those who were with him said, Master, the multitudes surround You and press You on every side! (46) But Jesus said, Someone did touch Me; for I perceived that [healing] power has gone forth from Me.
Christ knows when you draw near & trust Him; when you make Him your ONLY HELP to do something for you
(47) And when the woman saw that she had not escaped notice, she came up trembling, and, falling down before Him, she declared in the presence of all the people for what reason she had touched Him and how she had been instantly cured. (48) And He said to her, Daughter, your faith (your confidence and trust in Me) has made you well! Go (enter) into peace (untroubled, undisturbed well-being).
IT REMOVES THE BLINDNESS OF SIN ( mud) from our eyes
Nehemiah petitions God
Neh 1:6 please let Your ear be attentive and Your eyes open, that You may hear the prayer of Your servant which I pray before You now, day and night, for the children of Israel Your servants, and confess the sins of the children of Israel which we have sinned against You. Both my father’s house and I have sinned.
Our OWN STATE of Blindness (LACK of REVELATION)
Eph 4:18-22 (18) Their moral understanding is darkened and their reasoning is beclouded. [They are] alienated (estranged, self-banished) from the life of God [with no share in it; this is] because of the ignorance (the want of knowledge and perception, the willful blindness) that is deep-seated in them, due to their hardness of heart [to the insensitiveness of their moral nature]. (19) In their spiritual apathy they have become callous and past feeling and reckless and have abandoned themselves [a prey] to unbridled sensuality, eager and greedy to indulge in every form of impurity [that their depraved desires may suggest and demand]. (20) But you did not so learn Christ! (21) Assuming that you have really heard Him and been taught by Him, as [all] Truth is in Jesus [embodied and personified in Him], (22) Strip yourselves of your former nature [put off and discard your old unrenewed self] which characterized your previous manner of life and becomes corrupt through lusts and desires that spring from delusion;
ARISE!!!
THE VICTORIOUS BLOOD of the LAMB ENCOURAGES US TO ARISE
2. WHY DO YOU LOOK FOR THE LIVING AMONG DEAD?
Luk 24:1-7 (1) BUT ON the first day of the week, at early dawn, [the women] went to the tomb, taking the spices which they had made ready. (2) And they found the stone rolled back from the tomb, (3) But when they went inside, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. (4) And while they were perplexed and wondering what to do about this, behold, two men in dazzling raiment suddenly stood beside them. (5) And as [the women] were frightened and were bowing their faces to the ground, the men said to them, Why do you look for the living among [those who are] dead?
(6) He is not here, but has risen! Remember how He told you while He was still in Galilee (7) That the Son of Man must be given over into the hands of sinful men (men whose way or nature is to act in opposition to God) and be crucified and on the third day rise [from death]. [Psa_16:10]
JESUS IS ASKING….
Why do we look for HIM among things that are worthless, stresssing about the things mortal and callous – (without the heart of God) – try to fill your lives with frivolity (superficial) & feeble things…
Why do you labour so hard at things of the spirit that is not spirit led…???
Why do you look for Christ – to experience Christ – amongst the things, programs, entertainment, pleasure, religious activities, things naturally discerned and seen or that is of the world…???
PRAYER TIME :
SHOW US LORD the things that we are wasting our time, energy, resources, talents, that is steering us away from your REAL PURPOSE for our lives • Personally • Church life • Society • Relationships • Careers
FOR HIS BLOOD LEAD US TO OVERCOME
Rev 12:11 And they have overcome (conquered) him by means of the blood of the Lamb and by the utterance of their testimony, for they did not love and cling to life even when faced with death [holding their lives cheap till they had to die for their witnessing].
Considerations on Spiritual LEADERSHIP after the Global Lockdown – In the Newness of the Spirit
Serving God In the Newness of the Spirit
IN the Newness of the Spirit. We look at the now, much needed, new Spiritual Leadership after Lockdown. This need to originateFrom BEFORE GOD’S FACE -For HIS KINGDOM’S GLORY.
FOOD for THOUGHT: “From BEFORE HIS FACE – For HIS KINGDOM’S GLORY“
As we consider spiritual leadership after lockdown, we envisage
A NEW FACE OF THE TEMPLE THE CHURCH – THE INDIVIDUAL MOBILIZED
a. ABSTRACT:
The current global scenario that we all are subject to, now creates an obvious & opportune time for RENEWING PERSONAL & CORPORATE VISIONS – in this divine Kairos season; to introduce Spiritual leadership in the “Newness of the Spirit”
“The NEW FACE OF THE TEMPLE THE CHURCH Powerful – Through Every Believer THE INDIVIDUAL MOBILIZED.”
b. INTRODUCTION:
Christ’s Kingdom’s Glory (a) need to be on the forefront of the believer’s now-end-time mission; individually & corporately. The presumptuous disruption of our lives, the utter disordering from life as we know it and the way we’ve ‘done life & church’ in the past, now asks for – and presents a very natural occasion towards – refreshing current views & visions. This is a great opportunistic time – to be fully embraced in seizing the moment; for looking at things from a complete new, unfamiliar, decisive & experiential perspective.
c. RECITATION for CONSIDERATION
ORIGIN OF RECITATION – this recitation originated from:
Specific scriptures bringing conclusive insight and forming part of the backdrop of this dissertation. Academic studies and its literature on ‘revised’ or ‘refined’ visions. This script is also grounded in & founded on a Christ-Kingdom inspired search, for some answers to the Mandate of the Church’s End-Time Impact – for Kingdom Glory, through manifested Kingdom Glory, yet to be released.
IN the NEWNESS of the SPIRIT – FROM BEFORE HIS FACE – FOR HIS KINGDOM GLORY
CONTENT
1. LOCKDOWN CHALLENGES & OPPORTUNITIES
2. PRE-LOCKDOWN CHALLENGES & STRENGTHS
A) IN the Newness of the Spirit – SPIRITUAL MATURITY B) IN the Newness of the Spirit – Biblical SOUND DOCTRINE to be embraced
3. SUGGESTIONS FOR THE WAY FORWARD AFTER LOCKDOWN
3.1 New WINE skins ask for New Wine – GOD’S AGENDA for the Church
C) IN the Newness of the Spirit – A New Resilient FAITH CULTURE D) IN the Newness of the Spirit – NEW WINE can BRING BREAKTHROUGH E) IN the Newness of the Spirit – SEEK HIM TOGETHER – in a new way F) IN the Newness of the Spirit – Determine the HEARTBEAT of the CORPORATE BODY
3.2 New CHRISTIAN IMPACT – In His GLORY Presence
G) IN the Newness of His Spirit – His MANIFESTED GLORY H) IN the Newness of His Spirit – His DYNAMIC POWER IN DIVERSITY I) IN the Newness of His Spirit – LETTING GO make way for RELEVANCE J) IN the Newness of His Spirit – It’s time to MOVE ON
3.3 VISION must translate into SPECIFIC STRATEGIES.
K) IN the Newness of the Spirit – INCLUSIVE, TRANSPARENT & OPEN DISCUSSIONS L) IN the Newness of the Spirit – A STRATEGY FOR NOW
3.4 A NEW BRAND of MARCHING SAINTS
M) “IN the Newness of the Spirit – Every Believer embracing His mandate; TO COMPLETE THE WHOLE”
4. CONCLUSION: NOW IS THE TIME FOR HIS GLORY TO MANIFEST
5. FINAL APPRAISAL – SUMMARY – SCRIPTURES – COMMENTARIES- COMMENTS(Strongs)
RECITATION :
IN the NEWNESS of the SPIRIT
From BEFORE HIS FACE – For His KINGDOME GLORY
Rom 7:4, 6 4 Therefore, my brethren, you also have become dead to the law through the body of Christ, that you may be married to another—to Him who was raised from the dead, that we should bear fruit to God. 6 But now we have been delivered from the law, having died to what we were held by, so that we should serve in the newness of the Spirit and not in the oldness of the letter.
1. LOCKDOWN CHALLENGES & OPPORTUNITIES
Through all spheres of life, our reality has for ever been changed into a new unknown special consideration that requires new-wine; updated spiritual leadership. The known has been shaken & has been freed up from conformity to nominal perceptions of our existence and stale beliefs.
As individual believers and the Body of Christ in general, we need to look upon the mission ahead in a new fresh way – KAINOS. This is needed in order to accommodate, facilitate & maximize the current opportunity of the changed world.
This is now the moment – maybe the last we might have – to seize the opportunity to change the status quo of redundant scenarios. To invoke the NEW WINE on a civilization, desperate in need for something new & real! Even, if the old, set & faithful methods still work; is it what God is initiating now? Is this really what the Father has birthed through His Spirit for this moment? Or are we settling for 2nd best, that which is safe?
ARE WE WILLING to seize this new hour with an adventurous trust IN GOD? CAN we WAIT in FAITH on HIM to SHOW HIMSELF CREDIBLE in the very late BUT BRAND NEW hour ?
2. PRE-LOCKDOWN CHALLENGES & STRENGTHS
The Church has been preached to, trained, taught & equipped for years. We have been pew warmers for centuries. Spiritual leadership has always been of utmost importance. Yet now it is more important than ever before.
REVIVAL in the CHURCH will start with the revived spirit of every Believer that has made a daily encounter with God by His Spirit, revealing His Word, their default – NOT settling for anything less!!
REVIVAL in the STREETS will start when the fire of the Holy Spirit burns so bright, even harsh. Through the lives & testimonies of the saints the very shadow of Him living inside of us will convict to repentance & draw all men to His unsurpassed grace.
Because Christ’s true love is displayed through us.
A) IN the Newness of the Spirit – SPIRITUAL MATURITY
As long as we keep people dependent by feeding mainly from outer-court menus, appeased with sight-seeing passivity, comfortable programs and non-challenging examples, the need for maturing (hearing, knowing, doing for yourself) will not be stimulated.
Dependency leaves the Believer’s own call to ‘feed’ others & evangelize the lost, even further behind as part of God’s mission for them.
Unless, we are challenged to step into that place of spiritual maturity; and take responsibility for our own personal faith-walk, people will keep on ‘passing the buck’. Or keep on believing that they are incapable to perform their commission.
• This is contrary to the scriptures: (b) “But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”
B) IN the Newness of the Spirit – Biblical SOUND DOCTRINE to be embraced.
To NOT-share the relevance of hardships, trials & challenges of our faith walk, is not presenting to the Believer a Biblically sound doctrine and an all compassing theology. Such messages that neglect the above, presents a mediocre comfortable faith journey..
A seeker sensitive mentoring; lacking the truths about God’s judgement, wrath, righteousness, justice & grace…, do not help the believer in his/her own faith pursuit in their real-time challenges. (b. Psa 89:14)
• This soon has to change & will be a sudden shock to those who sit under erroneous preaching that mainly populate the pews by pleasing the ears; leading many astray in the process through defiled & compromised spiritual leadership.
Is the church maybe guilty of keeping babes in the pews? Have the mega-church concepts & grandeur individual pursuits been for too long, too much on the forefront?
• Being stuck in monotonous & repetitive religious rituals are the same as being under the spell of witchcraft & bondage of the Law of old. (c. Rom 7:4,6)
3. SUGGESTIONS FOR THE WAY FORWARD AFTER LOCKDOWN
We should now go & fulfil the End Time mandate for maximum CHURCH-IMPACT through His many new & different creative ways; by serving & to influence this world in the ‘Newness of the Holy Spirit’ being led in His authentic ways. This happens as we come before His face; when our sole focus for ‘doing church’ is for His Kingdom Glory.
• IF, His Kingdom GLORY – to do the Father’s will (a) – was the ONLY AUTHORIZED mandatory mission; would our End Time Faith Activities have looked different from the previous Faith Business Pursuits? (see annexure B & C below)
3.1 New WINE skins ask for New Wine – GOD’S AGENDA for the Church “In the Newness of the Spirit – What is on God’s Agenda”
“WHAT will we hear as we come before Him, before His face, in the beauty of His Presence about His glory to be made renown !?”
Another read : “THE VOICE of the CHURCH has been SILENCED”
NOW is the TIME to LISTEN to WHAT THE SPIRIT IS SAYING!
Superficial faith menus leave people unfulfilled & dissatisfied with the doctrine of the church; it frustrates. Anything not shared genuine from the heart falls flat…
For the Spirit inside us cries out, deep unto deep, for the more of the ‘newness of the Spirit’. One taste of the New Wine poured out deep into our spirit – the power and presence of the Holy Spirit – leaves us cold for anything that it is not.
Now is the TIME to QUIET OURSELES DOWN for INSIGHT & REVELATION.
We have to hear, see and observe; – so to speak ‘WITH WHAT’ & ‘WHERE’ God is busy. All Believers need to discern where His Holy Spirit is moving & what is now highlighted on His agenda.
• This won’t be found in the previous ways or by following past formats or formulas. The times have now truly & actually changed into more variations of the speedily changing world. The last ‘order of the world’ has become a greater reality and is closer at hand. It is not politics, business, church and life as in the past.
• A Familiar view, past successful programs & strategies; same old, same old ways can blur our vision & hamper our pursuit of a fresh new approach – in most areas. Before us are many, very new & challenging uncertainties that create diverse and new requirements for the present and future time.
C) IN the Newness of the Spirit – a New Resilient FAITH CULTURE
In many ways, people are now faced with the very real, fast changing dynamics of a very uncertain ‘present’ & vague future. It is an opportunistic, global, antagonizing and a constant in our lives. Believers need to become further acquainted and aware of a living God, actively guiding them, by His Spirit. The reality thereof and with greater intensity.
Personal challenges & struggles should be met with a resilient FAITH CULTURE. This is a personal, real & practical FAITH culture that will be introducing the dimension of God’s real time truths to be personified.
A NEW FAITH CULTURE- NEW wine is introduced for the new wineskins :
• It is crucial that hands-on, practical & on-the-run operational guidance & guidelines need to be introduced. This will enable the individual believer to be combat-ready, able to address & confront each personal challenge him/herself with resilient faith; in the newness of the Spirit. (b. Eph. 4:11-16)
• In-service Spirit training is the best way of learning & earning stripes under your belt; resulting in mature, relevant and practical Believers, trained in experiential faith by the Spirit.
• It’s time to throw the ball back into the hands of the believer & all members of the Christian faith.
The Assembly to assemble around His Spirit’s voice, individually received & acknowledged – as in the Upper Room – for the movement of the Church into the new, to come alive, together – form the Fulness of Christ – His Full 5 Fold.
D) IN the Newness of the Spirit – NEW WINE can BRING BREAKTHROUGH
New wine in new wineskins can break through the frontier of the unknown and step up, step out & create a new unique identity to meet the requirements of the new… Maybe now is the time to let go… to embrace faith afresh ” in the newness of the Spirit”
‘Let my people go’, to believe in themselves, to believe in God alone, to be able to fulfil the great commission; their great mission; confident to be led by my Spirit. Man made principles need to be founded on the solid Rock of the Word.
• It is the duty of the Leaders & Elders of this age to equip & commission the Body of Believers into their harvest fields; NOW even in a more resilient new way. (b. Eph. 4:11-16)
E) IN the Newness of the Spirit – SEEK HIM TOGETHER – in a new way
CORPORATELY A FEW NEW APPROACHES NEED TO BE TAKEN FOR THIS TO HAPPEN
In a corporate community we have to pursue God together to find “the new” that accommodates & is inclusive of most in the communal heart… to find the communal heart; His heart in all.
Church life has to break in & break through
The uniqueness of each individual’s faith convictions should be harnessed to enrich the faith experience of the corporate Body. This being wide-ranging, yet inclusive to encourage involvement and facilitate self-realization.
In finding the Lord’s fresh new agenda & direction for the diverse areas of church life, it could be inevitably to seek a completely new approach. This can be done by bringing new wine into new wine skins through overhauling & remodelling some of the current programs, styles & rescheduling some.
In most areas of faith life, we should not default to “as we’ve done it in the past”. The previous approach will most probably not accommodate the current systemic scenario in the much-needed new & relevant way. It will also not be able to facilitate progress towards the new wine, unless this is & stays dynamic in the current NEW demanding situation.
F) IN the Newness of the Spirit – Determine the HEARTBEAT of the CORPORATE BODY
Seeking God’s face as a congregation and participate in transparent leadership is crucial for the church to stay dynamic.
In order to discern where our Father is ‘moving’ & ‘touching the hearts’ of members in the Body, we need to determine the heartbeat of the corporate body.
HOW DO WE FIND THE CONCEPT OF THE CORPORATE HEARTBEAT?
• By encouraging open discussions, people’s dispositions, needs and personal faith quests, will be crystalized and brought into clarity. Through each member’s personal revelation of God & desired progress in their salvation process, this insight will bring revelation.
• While encouraging ownership of the individual pursuit, this needs to join together in the corporate setting. To come to the full picture of our Father’s heart. Through this we will discover His current involvement in the lives of His saints and discern where He is taking the Body as a whole.
• The voice of the sheep gives the shepherd a clearer idea of where they are and what their needs are; to meet just that. This, a paradox, but in this new season the shepherds’ may need to listen for the sheep’s cries. Let this stir up a new direction – leading from ‘behind’.
3.2 The New CHRISTIAN IMPACT – In His GLORY PRESENCE
G) IN the Newness of His Spirit – His MANIFESTED GLORY
Let us look at the scriptures:
“This, the first of His signs (miracles, wonderworks), Jesus performed in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory [by it He displayed His greatness and His power openly], and His disciples believed in Him [adhered to, trusted in, and relied on Him]”. (e) Joh 2:11
PEOPLE NEED TO BELIEVE “AGAIN”
Through the signs & wonders that Christ performed, His glory was manifest & His greatness and power became openly known. These miracles become evident of His presence; there manifesting in this dimension “on earth as it is in heaven”.
People started to believe in Him. This was something displayed through ‘Someone’; unlike anything they have ever experienced before. He had a completely New Impact in their lives.
• It is time that this must happen again. Surely, God would want show Himself strong in this moment in time; through a people that truly believe in the power given to them through the risen Christ; and them acting on it.
THE WORLD IS IN DIRE STRAITS – AWAITING SUCH A MOVE NOW:
• The dynamics of the entire social, financial, relational and operative environment in & around our socio-existence has changed.
WE need to demonstrate the PRESENCE & GLORY of God through A NEW HEIGHT of HIS SPIRIT’s INTENSITY and MANIFESTATION; NOT THROUGH more excitement & entertainment.
BY my spirit within me, I will seek you early
H) IN the Newness of His Spirit – His DYNAMIC POWER IN DIVERSITY
In order to stay relevant, we need to spent time and have open ears to find new ways of introducing a DYNAMIC POWERFUL GOD into people’s realities.
For this to happen we have to give God the mandate on OUR TIME & give the Holy Spirit our UNDIVIDED CAPTIVATION and worship of Him. Through sitting & abiding in His presence we will discover His DYNAMIC POWER in HIS DIVERSITY. This is crucial to lead the way.
As we look at Him the Holy Spirit show us His ways and lead us into all truth we will discover how He wants to manifest Himself in the “current world scenario” in this hour through HIS manifold ways.
The EVANGELISTIC Christian Ministry & Faith Life Push
The current global state of affairs should be used to the benefit of a NEW VISION. To stimulate the last leg of the EVANGELISTIC Christian Ministry & Faith Life Push.
This could result in a powerful & dynamic revival stimulus as people “start to believe” again.
• With all the diverse new challenges we may have to target a few areas where we find ourselves able to change & introduce diversity to make a difference in a new way and use this as a guideline & inspiration to change.
I) IN the Newness of His Spirit – LETTING GO make way for RELEVANCE
• The New Christian Impact now needs to make a large footprint. Out in the mission field of our everyday life, in business, the workplace, social & suburban life –
• It asks for a measure of ‘letting go & leaving’ of the occasional stagnation of the old. To introduce out of the box, new, wider & more free Christian life approaches that will meet people where they at.
J) IN the Newness of His Spirit – It’s time to MOVE ON
Most Believers have “moved on”. Christians have had enough of the rigidity of religiously; and ‘toeing the line’ to something that is not relevant to their real-time lives. These includemany who are serious in their faith. The backslidden and even potential new souls. People want to see the risen Christ now manifested in this dimension!
• In order to stay relevant in the irrevocably changed society of the 11th hour; finding new innovative evangelical ideas, mandates & encouraging new bold patterns will have to become a faith community’s pursuit.
This can ensure change to the faith life of the believer & to match the demand and need of the current late hour.
3.3 VISION must translate into SPECIFIC STRATEGIES.
K) IN the Newness of the Spirit – INCLUSIVE, TRANSPARENT & OPENLY
In order to steer the ship with inclusiveness, strategies will have to be freely discussed & openly debated by the greater part of the faith community.
This approach may keep at least the majority interested; being part of the plan through an incorporated vision, mission, goals & introducing actions steps for all to employ with vigour. Therefore, being motivated by an inclusive vision development; MORE BELIEVERS will be released to be the new face of the church – the individual mobilized.
“THE CHURCH WILL GO NOWHERE NEW, UNLESS WE ALL GO TOGETHER”
:-“God quote” Jhn 14 & 17
IF NOT implementing comprehensive vision building & INCLUSIVE VISIONARY LEADERSHIP, the falling away- from the corporate setting; of even the elect, will take place sooner than later.
In the light of the current global scenario – that has brought in much confusion – more individual VOICES are NEEDED; and need to be heard. We need the voice of the church to make the End Time Statement of the church drastic; to be broad & far reaching. This is essential, especially pertaining to the relevant direction for the church in its end time dynamic purpose.
L) IN the Newness of the Spirit – A STRATEGY for NOW
The ‘New Normal’ needs to be conceptualised within a strategy for now:
‘Not knowing exactly what just happened; where we are; where we are goin; what we are facing; what is next and what to prepare for; accumulate into a new compendium – to be incorporated in our reasoning processes for the way forward.
These scenarios of global proportions, playing off in the minds of most, are now very much in our face. Where previously it was just a vague possibility in the back of one’s mind.
Much & many things have changed. Most people don’t have an idea of what exactly has changed. Neither can we factually appreciate what is really going on. And what is really at stake here.
DISCERNING THE TRUTH FROM THE LIE
The uncertainty of who are now calling the shots in governments; is of great concern.
The agenda of those key role players that socially influence our lives – even readily planning that of the next generations – is highly questionable and even suspiciously looked at. Thereis much reason to discern what the ‘truth’ sounds likeandto seriously determine the church’s new function in a societythat is stillshaking in aftershock. Nowadays, the integrity of the many voices, bellowingover the amplified media waves, is highly questionable.
It is one thing to have a plan & direction.
We are all fully aware that something of apocalyptical nature is going on! But what this entails or will amount to still need to be revealed; and it will…! BUT will we see it for what it is!?
People don’t know to what the world has changed to & what it is developing into. Most people are greatly confused, and therefore even dysfunctional after this much unsettling time. Even to the point of becoming depressed and lethargic.
This current condition applies to our personal, corporate & even spiritual settings. There where we find the plan (path and direction) is not attend to in a fresh new way and left to the “silent groaning of the uncertainties” more confusion & disengagement will set in. ‘Someone’ needs to hear God’s voice in the newness of the Spirit for new direction in this season. All of us need to discern His truth from the voice of the lie.
The CHURCH needs to find that new setting to adapt their plans, strategies & spiritual leadership approach.
• We need to keep all parties involved to be part of a new way of thinking. This is crucial for faith building & a solid faith stance. • Leaders should lead from the back at times, to accommodate & appreciate the reality of current dynamics in people’s lives; for an inclusive and dynamic new vision.
3.4 A NEW BRAND of MARCHING SAINTS
In providing diverse & creative planning opportunities, collaboration on the things that we are sure of from His Word;
The CHURCH could harness a New Brand of Marching Saints into ‘The Last Commission March’ for HIS Glory Mission.
To keep the faith community relevant, active, encouraged and energetic; in doing what the hour requires, asks for a revised, fresh, unfamiliar & dynamic new VISION. This vision should translate through strong spiritual leadership & in collaboration with all who need to buy in and ‘sell the product’ of their faith; out in a very real and uncertain world.
THE LAST BANQUET
Every generation had their years of international & national mayhem, war, confusion & instability. Yet, now we are for sure closer to the end… We are closer to a fierce enemy with a devious plan, which needs to be negotiated.
Crucial new strategies have to be developed; – in order not to fall away from the original Mission of the Church – MAKE disciples and take them with you. And not to miss out on the glorious harvest prepared for our Saviour’s last banquet feast.
M) IN the Newness of the Spirit – Every Believer embracing His MANDATE TO COMPLETE THE WHOLE
4. CONCLUSION:
NOW IS THE TIME FOR HIS GLORY TO MANIFEST
As human intervention almost ‘step to the side’ in submission; we allow the GLORY OF HIS PRESENCE break the fallow ground in the believer’s life – in a NEWNESS of the Spirit-way.
As every believer is encouraged; become bold and daring to step into the flow of His Glory River, the church will come together in unison – as we all walk in the frontline, together.
FOR THE GREATER GLORY
We are in the Father’s GRACE TIME season of realizing purpose FOR THE GREATER GLORY; where every Believer will find his/her own voice in context of the Kingdom Voice & Spirit Call.
As the Godhead is ONE, we are to manifest the many facets of Christ’s glory in unison. Becoming relevant in these last days with New Wine in New wine skins. The FIVEFOLD Minisrty Fulness of Christ must be revived into action. This need to happern by equipping through guidance and revelation of the Holy SPirit in the moment; releasing the voice of the Father into one relevant voice by revelation. (e) Joh 2:5
‘His kingdom has to come’ through each Believer’s life – living from a place of experiential faith & glory.
• HIs Kingdom should & will manifest when His glory presence flow in & through us; becoming evident with signs & miracles. A daily, supernatural manifestation of His power & presence for the world to see & believe His majestic honour & glory. THIS can only COME from HIS PRESENCE… from Him…
TO pray from the Secret Place; from before His face.
Please watch this following video of Kevin Zadai’s experience in heaven. Encouraging us to enter into the secret place through prayer.
• For God to show forth His greatness; the greater works of Christ should be PERFORMED. There where man has no pretence, no human conceived plan and no agenda of His own. This will happen when man step aside & God’s glory manifests; by Him bringing His own right arm into action. To perform His greater works, even through us.
• This happens when our Father finds a vessel through whom He can freely manifest His almighty power & glory, according to His council & perfect will; knowing His glory will reach Heaven’s throne & His accolades will be hailed, throughout the heavens and the earth. (e) Joh 2:11
All of creation will join in song for the Church has been mobilized for the honor & glory of his Kingdom to manifest.
His Glory will manifest as the corporate church “allow the believer to believe in God” through the lives of ALL and He will receive the hnour & praise. No man, no individual, no church, no denomination. We will be led by His Spirit and He will seize His own praise. He will not share His glory with no man.
A whole new era needs to be hauled in. Where the systems, calendars, plans, works and performances of man will truly subject itself, consciously, to serve God & His people “in the newness of the Spirit” (c)
The church in this late hour is crying out for Strong & mature spiritual leadership in the Newness of the Spirit
From: The Monograph – A Biblical Theology of Leadership
I quote:
“If we think of success in terms of leader-greatness, we are on faulty ground. Success is to be measured by the greatness of the people of God, not just the leaders”
5. FINAL APPRAISAL:
CHRIST wants to be glorified!
The Father’s glory was and still is Christ’s mission! Now through us, even more! HIS IS the Kingdom, the ONLY kingdom, the only kingdom to build. He ALONE is the POWER & the GLORY; to receive ALL the honour.
I humbly contemplate; might the church in general, have missed it at times… We are “flesh unto flesh”, yet we should be spirit unto Spirit. The human nature, craving for honour and selfrealiasation is much tempted to make it about ourselves.
So many HUMAN PURSUITS; instead of making this life about God…, about His Glory to manifest through our lives and testimonies.
OUR God builds His church
We are ever thankful, for Him not leaving us to our own end. God is still building His Church!!
God is building His church regardless and in spite of our neglected failures and imperfections. Which include our failure to do regular retrospective “Word-Mirror” spot checks., to toe the line with the Word.
Our neglect, that has eroded gospel priorities, has rather often highlighted man’s packaged suggestions, of a Church look alike.
Are we building the church with God or apart from HIm?
HONOUR is due – SAINTS & STEWARDS of His grace
To His Priesthood, who continues relentless in the enormous responsibility of leadership; leading the church of His Christ in His wisdom, truth & Godly ways.
Many of God’s Servants are walking in the frontline, even when own weaknesses, trails & failures temp to lure to despair.”
LASTLY, Through this dissertation,
I also want to bring honour to the past & previous Giants of Faith. Those who led the Church so diligently by the call of His Spirit in previous eras.
They achieved much by spreading Christ’s Kingdom Glory through His Great Commission and played their best role in this diverse, compelling mission of the Christ Story.
They have layed the foundations for the now-generation, to fulfil and write the last pages of this novel Narrative.
Are we ready to build the Last Arc Together!
Heb 11:7
(7) By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen; moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.
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These are my humble, ‘own-mirror’ reflective contemplations; a modest submission, KNOWING that it is only SHARING IN PART.
Let us all be encouraged to use this ‘New WINE Season’ to make right and keep going for the Good Lord’s Eternal Glorious Honour.
In His Righteousness alone Alna Terblanche 28/05/2020
SUMMARY
The following themes are relevant to this recitation:
Summary with acknowledgement of Dr. Emeka Ezenwugo
At PRE-Lockdown, the global Church was engaged in many ‘clever’, yet man driven initiatives. Many were not necessarily Spirit led.
What we call the church has created a class of ‘dependent” devotees who have little or no one-on-one encounter with the Lord and lack discernment.
There is a need for a tangible demonstration of God’s power and glory. This is needed both to awaken the Church and to harvest the souls in the world.
The 5 fold ministry of Christ; especially the PROPHETIC, are needed at a time like this to be in sync with what the Lord is doing globally as we approach the end of the ages.
Annexure A: SCRIPTURES – Let the Scriptures Be the Light to Our Path
(a) THE GLORY OF THE FATHER & OF HIS CHRIST – ON EARTH – IS A GOD OBJECTIVE
Key verse to consider for our core aspiration & foundational consideration:
Joh 7:18 (Ampl)
(18) He who speaks on his own authority seeks to win honor for himself. [He whose teaching originates with himself seeks his own glory.] But He Who seeks the glory and is eager for the honor of Him Who sent Him, He is true; and there is no unrighteousness or falsehood or deception in Him. (NKJV) (18) He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who seeks the glory of the One who sent Him is true, and no unrighteousness is in Him.
(See Annexure B; for commentary perspective)
2Co 4:5 – 7
For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus’ sake.
For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. Treasure in Jars of Clay
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.
Joh 14:13 And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son
Joh 17:1
Jesus spoke these words, lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said: “Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You,
Joh 17:4-6
(4) I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do. (5) And now, O Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was. (6) “I have manifested Your name to the men whom You have given Me out of the world. They were Yours, You gave them to Me, and they have kept Your word.
Joh 17:22-24
(22) And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one: (23) I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me. (24) “Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have given Me; for You loved Me before the foundation of the world.
(b) BELIEVERS MATURE UP!
Psa 89:14 Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; Mercy and truth go before Your face.
2Co 3:18
And all of us, as with unveiled face, [because we] continued to behold [in the Word of God] as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from one degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is] the Spirit.
Heb. 5:12 , 14
For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food.
But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
1Jnn 2:27 – The believer needs to know how to ABIDE IN HIM & draw from HIS anointing But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in Him.
Eph 4:11-16
(11) And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, (12) for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, (13) till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; (14) that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, (15) but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— (16) from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
(c) THE MESSENGER OF THE NEW COVENANT IS SENT TO SERVE BY THE SPIRIT
Mal 3:1
1 “Behold, I send My messenger, And he will prepare the way before Me. And the Lord, whom you seek, Will suddenly come to His temple, Even the Messenger of the covenant, in whom you delight. Behold, He is coming,” Says the LORD of hosts.
Rom 7:4, 6
4 Therefore, my brethren, you also have become dead to the law through the body of Christ, that you may be married to another—to Him who was raised from the dead, that we should bear fruit to God. 6 But now we have been delivered from the law, having died to what we were held by, so that we should serve in the newness of the Spirit and not in the oldness of the letter.
Ampl. VersionRom 7:4, 6 …So now we serve not under [obedience to] the old code of written regulations, but [under obedience to the promptings] of the Spirit in newness [of life].
Joh 20:21-23
(21) So Jesus said to them again, “Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” (22) And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.
Mar 16:19 (19) So then, after the Lord had spoken to them, He was received up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God.
(d) TO DO THE WILL OF THE FATHER
Joh 4:34-35
34 Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work. 35 Do you not say, ‘There are still four months and then comes the harvest’? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest!
Heb 13:21 21 make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
Joh 7:16-17
16 Jesus answered them and said, “My doctrine is not Mine, but His who sent Me. 17 If anyone wills to do His will, he shall know concerning the doctrine, whether it is from God or whether I speak on My own authority.
(e) SIGNS WILL MANIFEST HIS GLORY
Joh 2:5 His mother said to the servants, “Whatever He says to you, do it.” Joh 2:11 This, the first of His signs (miracles, wonderworks), Jesus performed in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory [by it He displayed His greatness and His power openly], and His disciples believed in Him [adhered to, trusted in, and relied on Him].
Annexure B: COMMENTARIES EXTRACTS
Matthew Henry Commentary’s depicts:
(A) Comment on John 7:18
See here the character of a deceiver: he seeketh his own glory, which is a sign that he speaks of himself, as the false Christs and false prophets did. Here is the description of the cheat; they speak of themselves, and have no commission, nor instructions from God. No warrant but their own will, no inspiration but their own imagination, their own policy and artifice.
(B) Comment on John 7:16-17
Christ himself, was willing to have his doctrine enquired into, whether it were of God or not. Therefore much more should his ministers; and we are concerned to examine what grounds we go upon, for, if we be deceived, we are miserably deceived. Secondly, who are likely to succeed in this search: those that do the will of God, at least are desirous to do it.
Now see,
Who they are that will do the will of God? They are such as are impartial in their enquiries concerning the will of God, and are not biassed by any lust or interest, and such as are resolved by the grace of God, when they find out what the will of God is, to conform to it. They are such as have an honest principle of regard to God, and are truly desirous to glorify and please him.
Annexure C: Revelatory COMMENTS through Biblical context (Strongs)
• “ In the Newness of the Spirit G2538 Kainotes kahee-not’-ace : renewal G2537 kainos : kahee-nos’ – freshness G2643 katallage kat-al-lag-ay’ : exchange (figuratively adjustment), restoration to (the divine) favor: – atonement, reconciliation (-ing).
• “Before the Face of God “ G2714 katenōpion kat-en-o’-pee-on From G2596(katah) and G1799; directly in front of: – before (the presence of), in the sight of. G1799 in the face of ; 3700 optomai ; To gaze, To look at, Perceive, Regard, Take Heed, To know, To understand, To see, To visit, To behold, To discern, To consider
