The Kingdom Corner with Matt Geib

The Meaninglessness of Life...Ecc.1:2 (Searching for Significance, A Devotional Journey through Ecclesiastes) …chpt. 2,00:00 - 03:00 Intro. With Matthew Wests' ‘Motions” song03:00 - 04:53 Vanity of Vanities, Meaninglessness of Meaninglessness…related to ‘Nihilism…no meaning to anything in life, all is senseless or useless…04:53 - 11:14 (Chapter 2) reading from my book ….'Hebel' = Vapor…root of vanity or meaninglessness..this word is repeated 37 times,,,all has become of no worth to Solomon ..even though in chapter 2 he states He purchased whatever possession or experience he desired…Should ECCLESIASTES have been included in the CANON of Scripture? YES! As it is an example to us of how for all men/women at times how negative we can view life. This ‘Meaninglessness of Life ' thinking can drive us to seeking answers to the purpose of Life…..SIGNIFICANCE POINT: Keep Searching for life's answers, turn to God, Trust Him, even in the challenges you face.11:14 -16:30 this chapter reminded me of Rapper Sean Diddy , how his mansions were invaded…Diddy is the epitome of Nihilism per one Christian Podcaster, real parallel to Solomons views in Ecclesiastes…such a push in our culture in entertainment & Music that NOTHING holds meaning any longer…As Solomon said “Eat, Drink, Live it up & party for tomorrow we die!”....Example of Bezalel in the Old Testament the artist/craftsmen who God inspired to design the interior of The Tabernacle.. This was a great example of meaning, purpose, typology pointing to God's plan & His nature of Love..Now it is sad because in Music the theme of Love in Music can not be found unless you go back 50-60 years…Culture is seducing us out of hope YET God desires us to know that there is hope in HIM….So may God shake us 16:30 -24:24 My REFLECTIVE READINGS…”A Life worth Living, Is a Life Worth Recording” (Schroder)... I have been journaling consistently since 2009…. reading from journal of 03/28/14… My journalistic Thoughts from 10 years ago…Mudslide in OSO Washington ..20 to 100 fatalities with homes wiped out …40 homes swallowed up by fast moving mud …folks never even KNEW what happened & were dead!? This made me realize how fragile life can be & how quickly it can change!...JAMES says life is like a vapor a ‘Hebel' (breath) This has caused me to Attempt to FACEUP to areas in my life of my own dysfunctions & lack…Where have the past 30 years Gone in my life!?...my life…we go on thinking life will not change…HOWEVER if I'd write this today I'd say,,,you would have had to have been under a rock the past 4 years to NOT SEE the rapid changes that have occurred in our society sadly in many negative ways….BOTTOM LINE: May God wake us up & Shake us up to the precious commodity of TIME…In fact today's events are a WAKEUP CALL!! …THe bridge in Baltimore…we must realize once time is GONE it can never be replaced…PSALM 90 ‘NUMBER Your Days',,,steward Them wisely…In my life the enemy is attempting to trap me & make me feel I must go to the grave with all my faults, hurts, challenges..no change or resolutions (from 10 years ago)....24:24-28:23 (Continued journaled Perspectives from 10 years ago) 1)GETTING GOD'S PERSPECTIVE….2) View our lives from Heaven's Kingdom….would cause us to DO ALL WE Can to become FREE!I do not want to pass on with What could have been, or should have been because I hesitated in fear…no remorse when we see Jesus..we (I ) will get there…the Pearl of Great Price is WORTH all I can pay for it! God has set me free in many ways…However, More is ahead to become free of…Many brethren placed in my life to support me & help me become FREER! …. 28:23 - 28 :46...

“Living a Life of Worship” …an interview with Worship Facilitator/Minstrel “Chris Walters” (PT. 2)00:00 - 01:15 INTRODUCTION01:15 - 2:03 Worship is cultivating an audience of ONE with ABBA2:03-2:41 An Authentic Worshiper finds His/Her Place in the COMMUNITY of God2:41 - 4:35 Worship starts with Relationship, & A Death to yourself4:35 - 5:28 TWO KEYS: Be Called & Be Anointed, Insecurity begs the question of Calling & Anointing..that should be all the affirmation one need5:28 - 6:13 We are not the ones to decide if one is called or anointed..that is between God & Them…we worship GOD ourselves in spite of 6:13 - 8:25 There is a Balance BOTH US + GOD …a partnership is necessary 8:25 - 9:18 God desires to FLOW Through us , not totally control us..using our personalities, our knowledge, our gifts/talents,,,we are all UNIQUELY Fashioned vessels that He will flow through personally giving you things only for you to use 9:18 - 12:37 CW. Prayer KEEP ME Humble!,,,,Best thing Chris does with Her recognition is to Honor & encourage others!12:37 - 12:50 FIND your Tribe!,, God works profoundly through small GROUPS 12:50 - 14:25 True, LOVING, Authentic ACCOUNTABILITY , tends to work best in smaller Groups rallying around each other 14:25 - 15:12 God does not expect you/me to be accountable to EVERYONE..see 12 Tribes of Israel15:12 - 16:41 Big Churches/Small Churches, in the end each of us is personally ACCOUNTABLE before God,,caring for each other but not judging non issues16:41 - 18:32 QUOTES from Jeremy Riddles Book (The Reset)& How He resonates with our hearts18:32 - 21:27 Pg. 109 (The Reset`Jeremy Riddle) Her biggest enlightenment from the book….The church & ministry she was a part of imploded,,,she went back to Iowa to live her life at age 25. “Mothers & Fathers of Worship are being RENEWED once again in authority of Worship, from a flame that was almost extinguished years ago” An n AWAKENING is happening & God's flame will burn brighter in your latter years than it ever did in the zeal of your Youth!”....This was for CHRIS!21:27 - 22:11 Chapter 4 page 39 (The Reset) Becoming surrendered requires a death, yet at times we resist that surrender…a death to self that we have been discussing..22:11 - 23:33 Chapter 8 ‘The Reset' , pg. 86 … “A New Wineskin” An Atmosphere of Worship is envisioned that brings TOTAL Restoration & Renewal to people23:33 - 24:49 Chapter 7, Pg. 74 ‘Truth Matters”....(The Reset) Place yourself under GOD's Authority so Thoroughly , that that authority flows THROUGH YOU!...This comes back to CW, speaking about being in the WORD + Relationship … the BRIDE of Christ has her Fathers AUTHORITY…HOW?....spend time in the scriptures, you must KNOW the scripture that is the beginning of relationship…helps us find WHO we are in Him. 24:49 -25:01 As Worship Facilitators God's Authority must flow through what we are doing25:01 - 28:23 Chapter 6, Pg. 52 “Born of The Spirit” (The Reset) The use of Worship Sets & allowing the Holy Spirit to lead…we need more than just a worship set…the songs need to become part of us...

“Living a Life of Worship” …an interview with Worship Facilitator/Minstrel “Chris Walters” (PT. I)......... 04/08/2400:00 - 04:24 Introduction04:24 -05:30 Setting up Ministry parameters, money, recognition,BMI. Starting a publishing company05:30 -06:07 Ministry expectations, small group worship06:07 - 8:00 Monetary support/earnings to facilitate ministry & travel 08:00- 11:23 God's Worship facilitator going throughout the country for past two years, & God has always provided for the ministry11:23 - 11:58 Feeling stirred to start a ‘Home Group' in Iowa 11:58 – 12:51 Worship is a key part of INTERCESSION12:51- 15:26 There are many types of Christian music today & suitable settings for each type15:26 - 16:25 As a Worshiper you need to find your place in the Body of Christ16:25 - 18:45 Flow & Connection in Worship cultivates Community 18:45 - 20:15 Worship & an Audience of ONE20:15-21:15 Worshiping in SPITE of not Because of21:15 - 23:10 Having the correct FOCUS in Worship23:10 - 23:56 A New Season of ‘OPENNESS' in Worship23:56 - 25:30 God & music speaks to each of us in unique ways as we are all unique, do not put God in a ‘BOX'!25:30 - 26:56 Where is the Church headed in this Season?26:56 -27:32 The darker it gets the brighter the LIGHT shines!27:29 - 32:04 Home church groups vs. Organized Church; BOTH are necessary32:04 - 32:57 Chris has found her niche in small groups , as a Christian, worshiper, songwriter & musician32:57- 34:15 All of us NEED the Body of Christ, we can not walk alone34:15- 36:51 Association vs. Transformation36:51 - 37:14 Teaching on Worship is necessary..What? & Why?37:14 - 37:21 Worship IS your CONNECTION To HIM37:21 - 39:45 What IS WORSHIP & How do we enter into Worship?39:45 - 40:57 WORSHIP comes from out of a RELATIONSHIP40:57 - 43:11 To CULTIVATE Worship Meditate on the Word of God43:11 - 44:53 Worship should be our LIFE44:53 - CONCLUSION: Review,,Questions…Contact & Giving to Chris WaltersQUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION & RESPONSE:What is the difference to you between a Worship Leader & a Worship Facilitator?What is the relationship between Worship & INTERCESSION? How does Worship Impact INTERCESSION ? 3. ) Have you found ‘Your Place' in the Body of Christ as it pertains to Worship? 4.)Worship IS Cultivated through R__________________ EXTRA CREDIT: When Chris spoke about her ‘Audience of ONE' , what was she referring to? How did that thought impact you & your ways of worship?CHRIS WALTERS CONTACT INFORMATION:Chris has been called by God to share her music & connect with the Body of Christ as a ‘Worship Facilitator'. This will

03/26/24....”A Searcher Searches..” (Ecc. 1:1) -Chapter 1(Searching For Significance, A Devotional Journey Through Ecclesiastes)00:00 - 2:07 Introduction…Last podcast (03/12/24) we started a new series where I am reading my Book, (Searching For Significance, A Devotional Journey Through Ecclesiastes)With commentary & questions for response each session.Last time we went over the book's preface today we begin by reading chapter 1 “A Searcher Searches” Ecclesiastes 1:1 “The Words of the Preacher . The son of King David, in Jerusalem”QUESTION: Have you ever lost something(or someone) of great value or meaning in your life that caused you much grief & pain? ..I'm thinking everyone has02:07-7:22 READING OF Chapter ONE:The Author of Ecclesiastes is SolomonEcclesiastes & “The Words of The Preacher ''(Qoheleth, in Hebrew) are synonoymous meaning Searcher, , one who searches for,correlates or assembles data for observations,& conclusive ideas about a topic.This Book is a paradox…He started out in God's Favor with wisdom, yet fell away from that enlightenmentThis book represents a dark time in Solomon's life when he had fallen away from God, the last 10-15 years of his life are in view here in EcclesiastesSIGNIFICANCE: Be careful not to allow life's hurts, distractions, unconfronted issues or everyday cares of life cause you to drift from a close relationship with God. Everyday we must seek FRESH words from ABBA!07:22 - 10:50 Additional Commentary….Proverbs 9:10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,& knowledge of the Holy one is understanding…….a.) Solomon started his journey as King fearing God …yet different things in life caused him to drift away from that premise in his life.b.)The Life of Solomon is possibly the greatest PARADOX in God's Wordc.) As a God-Fearing King He rose to a place of world Renown where many nations & people sought His direction & counseld.) Yet by the time Ecclesiastes was penned….He had fallen from God & lost that LIGHT & so Ecclesiastes is a negative discourse in many respects..an “Under the sun” view of Lifee.) For me, this paradoxical view is very eye-opening , & can offer some real revelation for us 10:50–15:55 I KINGS 3:4 Solomons' DREAM from GOD , granting Him whatever He desired a.) Solomon approached God in HUMILITY…HE ASKED for WISDOM to Govern Israelb.) Solomon, therefore was given more wisdom than anyone whoever lived outside of Jesus Christ (Jesus was the Greater Solomon)c.) IF ….HE (Solomon) continued in Obedience/Relationship to Abbad.) Solomon's dream was from God & BECAME A REALITY!e.) A KEY to obtaining God's WISDOM is having child-like Humility 15:55-21:07 I KINGS 4:20 An Overview of SOLOMONS Wealth, Influence & Prosperitya.) At this time Israel was the Greatest nation on EARTH…at the Zenith of All The worldb.) Israel was enjoying such Prosperity because of David & Solomon both serving Godc.) Solomon's name meant Peace….TRUE PEACE with ABBA always results in Prosperityd.) Wealth & Provision detailed for just a MONTH!?e.) I KINGS 4: 29 And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that is on the sea shore….some translations

Searching For Significance--INTRO.Going a NEW DirectionComing this APRIL “Ephesians COACHING!”:-)A Devotional Reading of my book “ Searching For Significance, a Devotional Journey Through Ecclesiastes”PART ONE…..Ephesians & Ecclesiastes ParallelsIntro. & ReviewECC. 3:1-11All People have a designed PURPOSE….ECC.1:11TIME is an essential element in our lives…Ecc.1:11/Eph.1:7-11Times/seasons…Times mentioned 16 times in ECC…..Ecc. 3:17,8:5,3:17, Ecc. 9:12..Ephesians 1:9,10, 5:6CONTRASTING Ecc. with Eph. ……Ecc. 1:3 “Under The Sun” opposed to being in “Heavenly Places” Eph. 1:3,2:6, 3:7-10PART TWO……About Me…The Author: Matt GeibI am a Bible Teacher-Coach guiding people from religion to a meaningful connection with GodI have over 50 years experience & 50,000 hours of Bible study from which I have provided many Saints with wisdom & insight. I have taught in & Pastored churches over 30 years , counseled individuals giving insight & direction for their lives through use of practical application of scripture to their livesWith scriptural concepts & truth I provide timely & personal transformation in each unique situationI teach profound Biblical Truth in an easily understood & applicable MannerCurrently, I am A Teacher/Elder/Coach at the KINGS COMPANY, founded by Apostle Tyler Frick in 2018I have a PODCAST , “The Kingdom Corner Podcast” that I started in 2019 with over 120 episodesPREFACE: My ‘Writer's Journey” began 60+ years ago…as I was adopted in 1958 by a ‘PK' & brought up in a very good , what I would call “Christian Greenhouse” Environment in the MidwestI committed my life publicly To Christ at 9 years of Age , after a Billy Graham MovieBeing a Student of God's Word about 25 years ago I began an Intensive study of the Book of ECCLESIASTES & began to teach a Wednesday night Bible Class on ‘Solomon, Proverbs, & Ecclesiastes'.This Book “Searching For Significance, a Devotional Journey Through Ecclesiastes” came to fruition in the summer of 2019 based on the Bible class I taught years ago along with fresh, new insights I had been journaling about as I read through the book that summer.One of the Main points here is that this book was born out of a devotional, contemplative time with God each morning, NEVER did I consider that this would turn into my first BOOK!?..However, as ABBA was so gracious to give me fresh Manna & insight each day, I began to see that perhaps others could benefit from my gleanings of Solomon's prose along with the Fathers encouragement to me! To me the most prevalent theme of ECCLESIASTES is that all men & women are on a search for Significance, a search for meaning & purpose to their life. Hence , the title of this book.Perhaps today in March 2024, you have come across this Podcast at the Kingdom Corner. I am believing it is not by accident , today & moving forward as we begin a journey through my devotional book it is my heart-felt desire & prayer God will begin to reveal to you Your Purpose, Your Significance as it were. Having said that sometimes finding out just what is important & significant is not always easily recognized or self-evident so allow yourself to begin to have a new awareness of what happens in your life day to day, even the simple things may hold new meaning for you…Just trust ABBA and he will show you the way!Lastly, when I penned this...

Cultivating AnAttitude of Gratitude” `PSALM 103 ………..(11/19/21)“The THANKSGIVINGPsalm”Praise for the Lord's MerciesA Psalm of David.103 Bless the Lord, O my soul;And all that is within me, bless His holy name!2 Bless the Lord, O my soul,And forget not all His benefits:3 Who forgives all your iniquities,Who heals all your diseases,4 Who redeems your life from destruction,Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,5 Who satisfies your mouth with good things,So that youryouth is renewed like the eagle's.PSALM 103:1 Bless the Lord Oh My Soul & All that is within me , Bless His HolyName!· Ps.57:7 My heart is fixed, O God, myheart is fixed: I will sing and give praise.· I Th. 5:18 in everythinggive thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.· Dominant Theme: See vs…Ps.103:2,20,21,22· BLESS = barak = “To Bend The Knee, with a showing of extravagant love/adoration from an inferior being to asuperior being” Mark 12:30 And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.' This is the firstcommandment.· Ps. 145:1-3 I will [a]extol You,my God, O King;And I will bless Your name forever and ever.2 Every day I will bless You,And I will praise Your name forever and ever.3 Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised;And His greatness is [b]unsearchable.· CONTRAST:· II TIM. 3:1-2 But knowthis, that in the last days [a]periloustimes will come: 2 For men will be lovers of themselves, loversof money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful,unholy,· Lk. 17:15 15 And oneof them, when he saw that he was healed, returned, and with a loud voiceglorified God, PSALM 103:2 Forget Not All...

HINDRANCES To THANKFULNESSI)INTRO….Hebrews 13:15 15 Through Him, therefore, let us constantly and at all times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His name.(AMPC)I THESS. 5:18 in every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.(AMP)II.)Hindrances To….A.)Lack of the FEAR of God a.) I Tim. 3:1-5 But understand this, that in the last days dangerous times [of great stress and trouble] will come [difficult days that will be hard to bear]. 2 For people will be lovers of self [narcissistic, self-focused], lovers of money [impelled by greed], boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy and profane, 3 [and they will be] unloving [devoid of natural human affection, calloused and inhumane], irreconcilable, malicious gossips, devoid of self-control [intemperate, immoral], brutal, haters of good, 4 traitors, reckless, conceited, lovers of [sensual] pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 holding to a form of [outward] godliness (religion), although they have denied its power [for their conduct nullifies their claim of faith]. Avoid such people and keep far away from them. AMPC1 But understand this, that in the last days will come (set in) perilous times of great stress and trouble [hard to deal with and hard to bear].2 For people will be lovers of self and [utterly] self-centered, lovers of money and aroused by an inordinate [greedy] desire for wealth, proud and arrogant and contemptuous boasters. They will be abusive (blasphemous, scoffing), disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy and profane.3 [They will be] without natural [human] affection (callous and inhuman), relentless (admitting of no truce or appeasement); [they will be] slanderers (false accusers, troublemakers), intemperate and loose in morals and conduct, uncontrolled and fierce, haters of good.4 [They will be] treacherous [betrayers], rash, [and] inflated with self-conceit. [They will be] lovers of sensual pleasures and vain amusements more than and rather than lovers of God.5 For [although] they hold a form of piety (true religion), they deny and reject and are strangers to the power of it [their conduct belies the genuineness of their profession]. Avoid [all] such people [turn away from them]. A.)Lack of the FEAR of GodROMANS 1:20-22 For ever since the creation of the world His invisible nature and attributes, that is, His eternal power and divinity, have been made intelligible and clearly discernible in and through the things that have been made (His handiworks). So [men] are without excuse [altogether without any defense or justification],21 Because when they knew and recognized Him as God, they did not honor and glorify Him as God or give Him thanks.(see Ecc 3:11) But instead they became futile and [a]godless in their thinking [with vain imaginings, foolish...

PART III “Gratitude 'The CORNERSTONE of An Unstoppable FAITH'”(12/08/23)There is a ‘family/tribe' including… Blessing, Thankfulness(Thanksgiving), Rejoicing, Praise, Honor(Reverence),Joy…..also all aspects for Worship/Adoration reallyMy INTENT in this study is to FILL You So FULL of GRATITUDE thats all that consumes your Heart & Mind!!:-)The devils language VS. The Language of HeavenHONOR…GLORY ( Honor is not a KJV Term , but is used 130 x in ESV , NKJV..124x NASB)The word most often translated in English as HONOR means GLORY in the Hebrew which Old Testament was penned in predominantlyMal. 2:2 if you do not give HONOR (Glory) to My Name…PRO. 15:33 The fear of the LORD is instruction in wisdom, & Humility comes before HONOR(Kabod).. Pro. 18:12 Before destruction a mans heart is haughty, but humility comes before HONOR(Kabod) SPELLED HONOUR in KJV(146x)(British spelling)I Chron. 16:27 * Honor and majesty are before Him;(* beauty, majesty= Hadar)Strength and gladness are in His place.PSALM 104:1 Bless the LORD, O my soul. O LORD my God, thou art very great; thou art clothed with *honour and majesty.( beauty, majesty, also brilliancy=Hod)Hebrew = *Tif –arah or Tif- erethPsalm 71:8 Let my mouth be filled with thy praise and with thy* honour all the day.beauty, splendour, glorybeauty, finery (of garments, jewels)gloryof rank, renownas attribute of Godhonour (or nation Israel)glorying, boasting (of individualPSALM 66:2 Sing forth the honour(KA-VADE, Ka-vad(Kabod) of his name: make his praise glorious….31x this word used in O.T.glory, honour, glorious, abundance ..abundance, riches,,splendor,dignity,reputation, reverence, honourable…WEIGHTINESS(heavy) (SEE Kingdom corner podcast episodes…1,2,3 Sept/oct 2019)NT use of HONOUR/HONORRev. 19:7 Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour (DOXA=see above..6x) to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.Hebrews 2:7 Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour,(Time= a value that is set, an estimation of value…preciousness is implied..49x) and didst set him over the works of thy hands:Rev. 5:12 Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour,(Time) and glory, and blessing.Mtt. 15: 4 HONOR (TAMAO==same as Time with weightiness added for emphasis) your Father & MotherJohn 5:23 Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, (TAMAO) and glory, and blessing.JOYO.T………(100x) simchâh, sim-khaw';......... joy, mirth, gladnessmirth, gladness, joy, gaiety, pleasurejoy (of God)glad result, happy issuePSALM 16:11 You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of...

CULTIVATING AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE (12/11/23)CULTIVATE to prepare land for crops or gardening ,,,that is to plough , dig turn, hoe , or fertilize the soil/ground…in other venues= to develop, foster, or pursueHOSEA 10: 12 Sow (scatter seed) to yourselves in righteousness (justice) reap (harvest) in mercy(loving kindness & steadfastness) …Break up (to till, furrow, or newly, freshly plough) your fallow ground (untilled, tillable soil/ground) ATTITUDE….this ‘word' is not specifically found in the Bible …The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines this as follows…a)posture b) a mental position(disposition) c) an emotion toward an act or state d) a readiness to respond e) ‘today' we may say he/ she has ‘attitude' meaning they are negative or defiant about something/someone**NASB20 & AMP….DO USE ATTITUDE in this Verse… Col. 4:2 Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving;...also PHIL. 2:5 Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus,( most other translations say have this mind)When speaking of what this word means the Bible speaks ofgood will…whole- heartedly..or mind setGRATITUDEHebrews 12:28 28 Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us ]show gratitude{NASB20}, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe;....{'Let us Be Grateful'~ESV…}{“Let us have GRATITUDE” (Rotherham)} GRATITUDE…………..GREEK>>GRACE {CHARIS}...(The Word KJV uses in He.12:28)that which affords joy, pleasure, delight, sweetness, charm, loveliness: grace of speechgood will, loving-kindness, favourof the merciful kindness by which God, exerting his holy influence upon souls, turns them to Christ, keeps, strengthens, increases them in Christian faith, knowledge, affection, and kindles them to the exercise of the Christian virtuesFROM ROOT –CHAIRO…abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude):—acceptable, benefit, favour, gift, grace(- ious), joy, liberality, pleasure, thank(-s, -worthy). The Family or Tribe of ‘GRATITUDE”:-)There is a ‘family/tribe' including… Blessing, Thankfulness(Thanksgiving), Rejoicing, Praise, Honor(Reverence),Joy…..also all aspects for Worship/Adoration reallyMy INTENT in this study is to FILL You So FULL of GRATITUDE thats all that consumes your Heart & Mind!!:-)The devils language VS. The Language of Heaven________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________My INTENT in this study is to FILL You So FULL of GRATITUDE thats all that consumes your Heart & Mind!!:-)The devils language VS. The Language of HeavenPART II 12/11/23………”The “Family” of Gratitude” ( Words & Passages that define Gratitude)BLESSING…( 120x in scripture, 59 God Blesses...

CULTIVATING AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE (12/01/23)CULTIVATE to prepare land for crops or gardening ,,,that is to plough , dig turn, hoe , or fertilize the soil/ground…in other venues= to develop, foster, or pursueHOSEA 10: 12 Sow (scatter seed) to yourselves in righteousness (justice) reap (harvest) in mercy(loving kindness & steadfastness) …Break up (to till, furrow, or newly, freshly plough) your fallow ground (untilled, tillable soil/ground) ATTITUDE….this ‘word' is not specifically found in the Bible …The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines this as follows…a)posture b) a mental position(disposition) c) an emotion toward an act or state d) a readiness to respond e) ‘today' we may say he/ she has ‘attitude' meaning they are negative or defiant about something/someone**NASB20 & AMP….DO USE ATTITUDE in this Verse… Col. 4:2 Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving;...also PHIL. 2:5 Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus,( most other translations say have this mind)When speaking of what this word means the Bible speaks ofgood will…whole- heartedly..or mind setGRATITUDEHebrews 12:28 28 Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us ]show gratitude{NASB20}, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe;....{'Let us Be Grateful'~ESV…}{“Let us have GRATITUDE” (Rotherham)} GRATITUDE…………..GREEK>>GRACE {CHARIS}...(The Word KJV uses in He.12:28)that which affords joy, pleasure, delight, sweetness, charm, loveliness: grace of speechgood will, loving-kindness, favourof the merciful kindness by which God, exerting his holy influence upon souls, turns them to Christ, keeps, strengthens, increases them in Christian faith, knowledge, affection, and kindles them to the exercise of the Christian virtuesFROM ROOT –CHAIRO…abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude):—acceptable, benefit, favour, gift, grace(- ious), joy, liberality, pleasure, thank(-s, -worthy). The Family or Tribe of ‘GRATITUDE”:-)There is a ‘family/tribe' including… Blessing, Thankfulness(Thanksgiving), Rejoicing, Praise, Honor(Reverence),Joy…..also all aspects for Worship/Adoration reallyMy INTENT in this study is to FILL You So FULL of GRATITUDE thats all that consumes your Heart & Mind!!:-)The devils language VS. The Language of HeavenEphesians 1:6-14 6 oto the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in pthe Beloved. 7

EPH. 5:8-10 for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light 9 (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), 10 and try to *discern what is **acceptable to the Lord.* to prove, discern, examine, see it is worthy, approve**EUARESTOS (U–rr–es—tos) accepted, well pleasing, fully agreeable1.)KNOW Whose You ARE & Where you LIVEBlessed, be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with every spiritual blessing, in the heavenlies, in Christ, 4 According as he made choice of us, in him, before the founding of a world, that we might be holy and blameless in his presence; in love, 5 marking us out beforehand unto sonship, through Jesus Christ, for himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6 Unto the praise of the glory of his **favour **wherewith he favoured us in the Beloved One,–– 7 In whom we have the redemption through his blood, the remission of our offences, according to the riches of his favour, 8 which he made to superabound towards us; in all wisdom and prudence, 9 making known to us the sacred secret of his will, according to his good pleasure which he purposed in him,2.) KNOW The Correct TimeII Cor. 6:1-2 Working together with him, then, we appeal to you not to receive the grace of God in vain. 2 For he says,“In a favorable time( a time accepted) I listened to you,(Isaiah 49:6-10) and in a day of salvation I have helped you.”Behold, now is the *favorable time(accepted time); behold, now is the day of salvation.* same meaning— in an even STRONGER sense…”A VERY Acceptable Time”EPH. 5:16,17 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil…Be not unwise but understand what the will of the Lord Is I Chron. 12:32…The tribe of Issachar had understanding of what Isr. should do ISAIAH 61:1-3 The Spirit of the Lord Is Upon Me because the Lord has anointed meto bring good news to the poor;[a] he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;[b]2 to proclaim the year of the Lord's...

Romans 7 To Sin or NOT to sin that is the choice!verses 1 for those that KNOW the LAW ...take the 'Spiritual Bar Exam' ...II Corinthians 13:5 Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves.verses2-6..The Metaphor of Marriage showing us the Old & New Covenantverses 7-13..The LAW exposes sin & is used to discourage usverses 14-24..Paul's own experience of frustration attempting to LIVE under the Law & how that made him feel verse 25 However there is ANOTHER way...see Romans 8

TITLE: Highlighting Passages from C.S. Lewis' “Mere Christianity”DESCRIPTION:C.S. Lewis is one of the most renowned authors and theologians of the 20th Century. From his beloved “The Chronicles of Narnia” series to “The Screwtape Letters,” Lewis' profound writings have inspired generations of readers and Christians alike.Today, I'm going to focus on one of my favorite C.S. Lewis books: “Mere Christianity.” This book greatly impacted me the first time I read it at the age of 19. During the past month or so, I decided to pick it up again and discover more of Lewis' contemplative apologetics. I'm going to share some passages and accompanying Scriptures that stood out to me.VERSESMatthew 7:12Leviticus 19:18Galatians 5:14James 2:8Galatians 5:13Joshua 24:15John 7:17Romans 7:15-22James 4:17Romans 3:23Genesis 3:22Psalm 27:13Psalm 33:5Psalm 52:1Exodus 33:18-19Psalm 16:11Acts 2:28Ephesians 3:14-19Acts 17:281 John 4:9Romans 14:17Ephesians 2:8-101 John 1:9TERMS/NOTES“Mere Christianity” by C.S. LewisThe Heavenly Call of Ephesians | Facebook Group

Is The Word Rapture In The Bible?Titus 2:12-13training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to liveself-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, 13 waiting for our blessed hope, theappearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, ScripturalDefinition of the ‘Rapture' from Jamie Hanson….“Theinstantaneous resurrection of the overcoming O.T. & N.T. Saints who havedied & the instant ‘snatching up' also of the living, overcoming believerson the earth who altogether as a group meet Jesus in the air & are taken tothe Throne of God who will remain with Him FOREVER(not withstanding, comingback with Him at 2nd Coming to Rule & Reign with Him in theMillenium)! During this event all the dead & living are ‘caught up' receivingnew ‘glorified bodies' that are the same as the ‘spirit-glorified' body ofChrist. This will all occur prior to what the Bible calls “The Great Tribulation”.This event will also be instantaneous & visible to all who are not ‘caughtup' VOCABULARY WORDS For RAPTURE:Note: The Word‘Rapture' is not in the Bible, yet the concept is evident….( see alsobaptize/immerse…Angel/Messenger) The term “rapture” comesfrom the Latin verb rapiemur which means “ to seize, snatch, carry away.” There are4 GREEK terms that refer to this event (not action)…As the Definite Articleis Used…that is ‘THE” referring to a specific event1) Apokalypsis – means an unveiling or appearing2) Epiphaneia –means an appearing, ashining3) Parousia- means ‘presence' most translations use ‘coming'which is a bad translation4) Harpazō - means caught up or snatched upApokalypsis- meansan unveiling or appearingII Thess. 1:7… whenthe lord Jesus shall be Apokalypsis(2nd Coming)I Cr. 1:7 thatyou come behind in no gift waiting for theApokalypsis ofour Lord Jesus ChristI Peter 1:7 Thatthe trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth,though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and gloryat the Apokalypsis of ourLord Jesus Christ. IPeter 1:13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hopeto the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the Apokalypsis of Jesus Christ IPeter 4:13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings,...

“The RAPTURE of The Church” (07/05/23)Introduction:Our Blessed Hope….I Corinthians15:51-52 Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall notall sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 ina moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raisedimperishable, and we shall be changed. Revelation 1:1-3 The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show tohis servants[a] the thingsthat must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servantJohn, 2 who bore witness to the word ofGod and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw. 3 Blessed is the one who reads aloud thewords of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what iswritten in it, for the time is near.Revelation22:7 “And behold, I am comingsoon. Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy of thisbook.”Titus 2:12-13training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to liveself-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, 13 waiting for our blessed hope, theappearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, ButThere Is A Problem….II Peter 2:1-3Butfalse prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be falseteachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, evendenying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction.2 And many will follow their sensuality, andbecause of them the way of truth will be blasphemed. 3 Andin their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation fromlong ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep.Matt. 24:11 And many false prophets will arise and lead manyastray.Matt 24:24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shallshew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.ACTS 20:29-30 Iknow that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparingthe flock; 30 and from among your ownselves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples afterthem. COL. 2:88 Seeto it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, accordingto human tradition, according to the elemental spirits[a] of theworld, and not according to Christ.II Thess.2:3-12,I Tim. 4:1-3,II Tim. 3:1-9,II Tim.4:3,I John 4:1ScripturalDefinition of the ‘Rapture' from Jamie...

Feeling exhausted, cynical, or overburdened in your ministry? There is hope… We suffer burnout because we overwork ourselves. We suffer burnout when we experience disappointment, betrayal, and rejection. We suffer burnout as we fall short of our own expectations.  No one who dares venture great things escapes burnout symptoms. But we don't have to succumb to burnout or let it destroy our ministry calling. When I feel the pressure of where I must be next, I am learning to capture myself in this day and try to give God my tomorrow. When I sense that someone needs ministry from me, I do not assume that I was preordained to be their answer, just the servant who points them to the One who is the answer. I am learning to reset my expectations upon miracles, signs, and wonders according to God's good pleasure. I am learning that most healing is a process, not a destination. Most of all, I have been learning that God is a good Father – not a slave master. He is the patient, loving Abba who sees me as His beloved child. Whether you recognize that you are approaching burnout, have reached it, or simply want to learn how to establish healthy life habits to avoid letting it impact your ministry, this book is for you. A retired Pastor of 25 years, a retired Chaplain with 33 years of military service including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, Dr. Chris Bassett also spent ten years as a Police Chaplain and 15 years as a Sheriff's Deputy, Detective, and Master Police Officer. He knows a little something about ministry burnout. He published a study on First Responder Chaplains and Burnout (the passion point for this book) and is a master trainer in suicide intervention. Dr. Bassett is the founder and president of 4 th Dimension Ministries, a ministry dedicated to helping people see themselves and others as God sees them. 4thDimensionMinistries.org

Psalm 2 The Messiah's Triumph and Kingdom 2 Why do the [a]nations [b]rage, And the people plot(imagine) a [c]vain thing? 2 The kings of the earth set themselves, And the rulers take counsel together, Against the Lord and against His Anointed,[d]saying, 3 “Let us break Their bonds in pieces And cast away Their cords from us.” 4 He who sits in the heavens shall laugh; The Lord shall hold them in derision. 5 Then He shall speak to them in His wrath, And distress them in His deep displeasure: 6 “Yet I have [e]set My King [f]On My holy hill of Zion.” 7 “I will declare the [g]decree: The Lord has said to Me, ‘You are My Son, Today I have begotten You. 8 Ask of Me, and I will give You The nations for Your inheritance, And the ends of the earth for Your possession. 9 You shall [h]break them with a rod of iron; You shall dash them to pieces like a potter's vessel.' ” 10 Now therefore, be wise, O kings; Be instructed, you judges of the earth. 11 Serve the Lord with fear, And rejoice with trembling. 12 [i]Kiss the Son, lest [j]He be angry, And you perish in the way, When His wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him. Psalm 2 can be described as “Four Distinct Voices of Personification Speaking” The Resistance of the Nations to YHWH & His Anointed (Vs. 1-3) YHWH Laughing Mockingly at the Nations Futile Resistance To Him & Responding that He Has His Own King To Exalt(Vs. 4-6) Jesus , God's Anointed King Declares Himself To The Nations(Vs. 7-9) The Psalmist exhorts Leaders of The Nations They must Worship & Reverence The Lord & His Son lest they incur His Righteous Anger (Vs. 10-12)   PSALM 2:2-3 2 Why do the [a]nations [b]rage, And the people plot(imagine) a [c]vain thing? 2 The kings of the earth set themselves, And the rulers take counsel together, Against the Lord and against His Anointed,[d]saying, 3 “Let us break Their bonds in pieces And cast away Their cords from us.”            The Resistance of the Nations to YHWH & His Anointed (Vs. 1-3) Vs. 1) “Why do the Nations rage”(To tumultuously assemble)…..               Ps. 46:6, Lk. 18:32, Acts 4:25,Acts 17:5,Lk.21:25 “Plot/Imagine” a vain thing…             Ge. 6:5-7   5 Then [a]the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and             that every intent[b] of the thoughts of his heart was only evil [c]continually. 6 And the Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart. 7 So the Lord said, “I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth, both man and beast, creeping thing and birds of the air, for I am sorry that I have made them.” Vs. 2) Rulers set themselves against the Lord…..(They Resist)…..   Lk. 3:8-11 (Jesus Mocked)…Acts 12:1,2 (Peter & James…Herod killed James) Vs. )3break their bands/cords asunder…..  Jeremiah 5:5, Proverbs 29:18 PSALMS 2:4-6 4 He who sits in the heavens shall laugh; The Lord shall hold them in derision. 5 Then He shall speak to them in His wrath, And distress them in His deep displeasure: 6 “Yet I have [e]set My King [f]On My holy hill of Zion.” YHWH Laughing Mockingly at the Nations Futile Resistance To Him & Responding that He Has His Own King To Exalt(Vs. 4-6) Vs.4) “shall Laugh”……..Ps. 37:12,13…Ps. 59:8…Proverbs 1:26 Vs. 5) ‘He shall speak To them In His Wrath…'Psalm 50:16-22,Ps. 110:56, Zech. 1:15 Vs. 6) I have [e]set My King [f]On My holy hill of Zion.”………….Isaiah 9:6,7..Daniel 7:14 Jesus , God's Anointed King Declares Himself To The Nations(Vs. 7-9) PSALM 2:7-9 7 “I will declare the [g]decree: The Lord has said to Me, ‘You are My Son, Today I have begotten You. 8 Ask of Me, and I will give You The nations for Your inheritance, And the ends of the earth for Your possession. 9 You shall [h]break them with a rod of iron; You shall dash them to pieces like a potter's vessel.' ” The Rule of JESUS: Matthew 28:18, Ephesians 1:20-22, I Peter 3:22 Revelation 1:5; 2:26,27 The  Psalmist exhorts Leaders of The Nations They must Worship & Reverence The Lord & His Son lest they incur His Righteous Anger (Vs. 10-12)   PSALM 2:10-12 10 Now therefore, be wise, O kings; Be instructed, you judges of the earth. 11 Serve the Lord with fear, And rejoice with trembling. 12 [i]Kiss the Son, lest [j]He be angry, And you perish in the way, When His wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him. “KISS The SON” Kiss does mean just that…in Oriental custom shows great honor & respect for another, & blessing of another…Ge. 27:26-29Jacob kisses Isaac, Gen. 31:55;Hosea 13:2 kiss the calves..Luke 22:47-48 Jesus betrayed with a Kiss Also…To dispose or adjust  oneself to, To Honor one, To Put in order, To Fasten Oneself to (like fastening of a war tool…bayonet to rifle),To handle be equipped …To Touch gently (Eze. 3:13 Cherubim's wings ‘brushed together') A Kiss can also be used in Figurative, poetic language…as used here & Psalm 85:10 Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other. Holy Kiss among brethren…Romans 16:16,I Cr.16:20,II Cr. 13:12, I Th. 5:26, I Peter 5:14 KISS (continued) Showed a vow of loyalty, of being totally dependent on the one kissed To Honor your conqueror 3.To Identify with the SON…Jn. 1:12,Eph.1:5, I Cr.6:17,I Pe. 2:9… Gal. 3:27-28 27 For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.   4.An Expression of Love & Worship…Mtt. 26:7 The woman & the alabaster box     .      5.A Reconciliation that brings fellowship…Genesis 33:4, Esau kisses Jacob   CONCLUSION: Lordship Isaiah 45:22-25/Romans 14:11,12 22 “Look to Me, and be saved, All you ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other. 23 I have sworn by Myself; The word has gone out of My mouth in righteousness, And shall not return, That to Me every knee shall bow, Every tongue shall take an oath. 24 He shall say, [a]‘Surely in the Lord I have righteousness and strength. To Him men shall come, And all shall be ashamed Who are incensed against Him. 25 In the Lord all the descendants of Israel Shall be justified, and shall glory.' ” INTIMACY: Sng. 1:2 Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth: for thy love is better than wine.    

Pastors, Abba's Loving Shepherds with Steve & Tina McCorkle SHOW NOTES: 09/23/22 Brief testimonies shared by Pastors Steve & Tina….How both came to know Jesus & over the years through a Home fellowship how the ‘First Fruits Revolution Church' was officially established in 2012 How The Name of The church,”First Fruits Revolution” was chosen  & the significance of that name The focus, vision, & primary ministry of First Fruits Church that makes them unique in God's Kingdom Discussion of what the Office & role of a True Pastor in the Church should be today TWO PILLARS of a God-centered Church : Community/fellowship & Corporate worship, & why one cannot  grow properly in Christ as a ‘Spiritual Lone Ranger' Closing Prayer Contact Information For Pastors Steve & Tina McCorkle:   https://firstfruitsrevolutionministries.com First Fruits Revolution Ministries Address: 732 Ryan Ave. Sumner, WA. 98390…Phone: 253-258 7373 Tuesday Prayer Meeting 9:30 AM-11:30 AM Tuesday Food Outreach 12:15 PM at The Well Fellowship-  702 Kincaid Ave. Tuesday Evening 6:15 PM – 8:15 PM FFRM The School Of Transformation Saturday Worship Service 6:30 PM Come Visit Us We are back in the building at our regularly scheduled times above! Welcome First Fruits Revolution welcomes you to experience God's presence in a fresh new way. We are a people, hungry for the Lord and desiring the body of Christ to be released to function in the gifts of the Holy Spirit ( 1Cor. 12-14)  as well as functioning  as a 5 fold ministry team (Eph. 4:11-13).  We train people to hear Gods voice.  God is speaking to us all the time. He is speaking through times and seasons. God continues to speak through His word and by His spirit daily. We have access to the Father through Jesus his son.  If you are free on Saturday nights, come and join us in worship for times of refreshing, prophetic ministry and instruction from the word. Our Mission Bringing Heaven to Earth though passionate worship- to bring forth teachings that bring insight and understanding- to give blessings for each individual through the prophetic word and releasing them into their destiny- to bring healing to the body and emotions-all these coming  by the Holy Spirit and the word of God (Bible). We are raising up revivalist here in the Northwest.  First Fruits Revolution has an excellent leadership team.  

PSALMS CLASS…………………………………09/19/2022 Psalms 1 & 2 PSALMS 1 (Continued)……. Vs. 3 He shall be like a tree Planted by the [c]rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper. “Like A Tree” This Metaphor speaks of stability, Strength, Longevity ( See California Redwoods, some trees 4000 years old)..also being immoveable…a tree is never easily moved/uprooted…Also as  WELL as FRUITFULNESS This is a picture of stable, immoveable, persistent , FRUITFUL …Lasting eternal SAINTS….Because they are so strong In God They also offer protection/security for others Song..”I shall not be, I shall not be Moved….just like a tree planted by the waters, I shall not be moved” Ps. 15:5 He who does not put out his money at usury, Nor does he take a bribe against the innocent He who does these things shall never be moved. Ps. 46:5 God is in the midst of her, she shall not be [b]moved; God shall help her, just [c]at the break of dawn.(city/ house of God) Matt15:13 But He answered and said, “Every plant which My heavenly Father has not planted will be uprooted. “PLANTED” This is a tree, that God PLANTED, This shows God's nurturing care & cultivation of this specific Tree. God did this intentionally, this is not just any wild tree or bush “By” literally ‘on' or ‘over'..planted right OVER water like an oasis, a tree of righteousness We are to Be  right in The Water (SPIRIT) of God ..Ro. 8:9, Gal. 5:16, 25;Eph. 2:22 “RIVERS” Plural in the Hebrew…could be canal or channels, has the idea of a ‘DIVIDE'…shows cultivation…irrigation ( we work with Abba to irrigate)…Trees like willow trees ‘hunt' for water with their root…A Garden of EDEN experience “RIVERS”…shows a Free-flowing Life in God..Jn.7:37-39 out of ones belly RIVERS of Living water shall flow…A CONTINUAL source of life Giving Water provided(joel 2:23) Rev. 7:7 For the Lamb at the center of the throne     will be their shepherd; ‘he will lead them to springs of living water.'[a]     ‘And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.'[b Jn. 4:14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. II Peter 2:17 wells without water God will keep the woman/man who delights & meditates In Him flowing in His Spirit “That brings forth its fruit in its season,” …Times & ‘SEASONS” ( ECC. 3) of Fruitfulness…Wonderful & healthy fruit is brought forth, in correct season & order We get ‘rooted'  to provide good fruit as we ABIDE in Abba…Gal. 5:22,23 … Jn. 15:4-5 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. 5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. Jn. 15:16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. Gal. 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. A natural process to produce FRUIT in Abba's season for the BLESSED Man/Woman!..FRUIT is the proof of our quality, character , nature….we as God's children may produce different fruit. “Whose leaf also shall not wither”….this speaks of what we do, Godly activity in Kingdom work….we will not dry up, we are receiving Plenty of SON shine…because of our delight & meditation in ABBA we are ALWAYS Receiving & growing…producing fruit to nourish ourselves + others(chlorophyll, process)  ..Like a healthy fruit tree we are alive, fresh & full of ‘green' life   “And whatever he does shall prosper…” This is The PROOF of BLESSING For one committed to ABBA…To be a success, , Be profitable…from a root to Push forward or break out Psalm 92:12,13 The righteous will flourish like the date palm [long-lived, upright and useful]; They will grow like a cedar in Lebanon [majestic and stable].  Planted in the house of the Lord, They will flourish in the courts of our God. Genesis 39:3  And his master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord made all he did [a]to prosper in his hand….23 The keeper of the prison did not look into anything that was under [a]Joseph's authority, because the Lord was with him; and whatever he did, the Lord made it prosper. Genesis 49:22 Joseph is a fruitful bough, even a fruitful bough by a well; whose branches run over the wall: Jeremiah 17:5-8 Thus says the Lord: “Cursed is the man who trusts in man And makes flesh his [a]strength, Whose heart departs from the Lord. 6 For he shall be like a shrub in the desert, And shall not see when good comes, But shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, In a salt land which is not inhabited. 7 “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, And whose hope is the Lord. 8 For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, Which spreads out its roots by the river, And will not [b]fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green, And will not be anxious in the year of drought, Nor will cease from yielding fruit. II Chron 31:20,21 Thus Hezekiah did throughout all Judah, and he did what was good and right and true before the Lord his God. 21 And in every work that he began in the service of the house of God, in the law and in the commandment, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart. So he prospered.     THE CONTRAST………Ps. 1:4,5,6 Vs. 4, 5 & 6 4)The ungodly are not so, But are like the chaff which the wind drives away. 5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, Nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. 6)For the Lord knows the way of the righteous, But the way of the ungodly shall perish. Vs 4)” The ungodly are not so,…” literally, ‘NOT  SO The Unrighteous!'..emphatic Hebrew expression….NONE of the Righteous mans Blessings will ever apply to the ungodly man/woman Last 3 verses of chpt. Refer in contrast to the righteous …now the ungodly Refers back to phrase in verse 1 ‘Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly…'(both ½ lines) “CHAFF”      This word is used to show the unrighteous/ungodly as being opposite in character/life style of the Godly……Strong TREES have ROOTS, Life…..CHAFF is blown about, no substance, sustenance or LIFE=WORTHLESS…chaff is Dry & barren….processed in a ‘threshing barn' to separate it out from GOOD grain…slats built in to BLOW away worthless chaff….chaff is unstable & of no use. Matthew 3:11,12   11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance. but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:12 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire. Daniel 2:35  Then the iron, the clay, the bronze, the silver and the gold were all broken to pieces and became like chaff on a threshing floor in the summer. The wind swept them away without leaving a trace. But the rock that struck the statue became a huge mountain and filled the whole earth. Isaiah 5:24 Therefore, as tongues of fire lick up straw     and as dry grass sinks down in the flames, so their roots will decay     and their flowers blow away like dust; for they have rejected the law of the Lord Almighty     and spurned the word of the Holy One of Israel. Jude 12,13 12 These people are blemishes at your love feasts, eating with you without the slightest qualm—shepherds who feed only themselves. They are clouds without rain, blown along by the wind; autumn trees, without fruit and uprooted—twice dead, 5) Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in Judgment, Nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous Not in the sense of Resurrection…speaks of being honored or debased….a state of shame is in view NO Justification in sin sacrifice or Christ's blood  , rather a condemning Judgment…as wicked will be cut off “Stand In judgment” Literally, ‘'they shall arise in vindication”    “Congregation” = community, assembly, gathering…a root= to TESTIFY Ps. 5:5 The boastful shall not stand in Your sight; Ps. 26:12 My foot stands in an even place; In the congregations I will bless the Lord. Ps. 73:18 Surely You set them in slippery places; You cast them down to destruction. Goats/sheep….wheat/tares…fruit/chaff God is moving now to expose sin In His Church..I Peter 4:17 For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? Re. 6:17 “For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand?” Parallelism …. 6)For the Lord knows the way of the righteous, But the way of the ungodly shall perish. The ultimate factor in a life Is God KNOWING Us ….implies He has accepted Me, & Is INVOLVED INTIATELY with Me(YADA) II Tim. 2:19 Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of [a]Christ depart from iniquity.”   6…………(KNOWS) continued I Cor. 8:1-3 Now concerning things offered to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge [a]puffs up, but love [b]edifies. 2 And if anyone thinks that he knows anything, he knows nothing yet as he ought to know.   if anyone loves God this one is KNOWN by Him Matthew 7:21-23 21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?' 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!' Job 23:10 But He knows the way that I take; When He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold. Jn. 14:6 6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. Heb. 10:20 20 by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, PSALM 139 Matthew 10:30 But the very hairs of your head are numbered He Knows more about Us than even we know of ourselves “PERISH” Literally , “To Wander” A Person left to their own way & uncared for ,wanders aimlessly like a lost child & ends up perishing PSALM 16:8 I have Ever set the Lord Before Me James 4:8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. PSALM 112:1,2 Praise[a] the Lord! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, Who delights greatly in His commandments. 2 His descendants will be mighty on earth; The generation of the upright will be blessed

PSALMS CLASS                                                                                     09/12/22 Why Psalm 1 & 2 Are An Introduction to ALL The Psalms: There are no opening Inscriptions to either them ( 2 of 3 w/o) The MSS ran all Psalms together, no chapter breaks, so considered as ONE chpt. Psalm 2 like Ps. 1 is credited to David & both seem to flow together             Acts 4:25 who [a]by the mouth of Your servant David have said: Why did the nations          rage & the people plot vain things Acts 13:33 God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee. ( see Ps. 2:7--the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.) BOTH Psalms 1 & 2 contain the general content & tenor of ALL PSALMS Comparisons/Contrasts of PSALM 1 & 2: 1 focused on Individual/Ps. 2 focused on nations BOTH Ps. Contrast wicked vs. Righteous…Ps. 1 Right. Man /wicked man & Ps. 2 Right ntns./wicked ntns. Also in same way Blessing is contrasted to cursing, as individuals/ntns. The right. Man/ntns. do such & become such & such…The wicked man/ntns. Do such & such & become such & such BOTH Psalms show the FAITHFULNESS of God Individually/nationally..Blessing & Judgment are shown to be the clear, direct & OVERIDING Themes BOTH Psalms show the INDISSOLUBLE connection between righteousness & Blessings vs. Wickedness & Cursings BOTH Psalms also show the BLESSING/Non Blessing of a Fulfilled/Unfullfilled Covenant by Yahweh Indiv./ntly. KEYNOTE: The Blessing of Following God & God's Faithfulness Towards UsJ NOTE:The Psalms are an open hearted expression of people attempting to follow God, It takes a Spiritual Revelation to Walk with God! THE successful NATION follows GOD       PSALMS 1 Psalm 1 contrasts the END of one who LOVES God's LAW to the END of one who is Ungodly Deut. 11:26-28 26 “Behold, I set before you today a blessing and a curse: 27 the blessing, if you obey the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you today; 28 and the curse, if you do not obey the commandments of the Lord your God, but turn aside from the way which I command you today, to go after other gods which you have not known. Joshua 1:8 8 This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you[a] shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. God never did away With the LAW when the New Covenant of GRACE was ushered in through Jesus sacrifice….THE LAW is GOOD &  to be followed The PSALMS testify to that…It's just that under the covenant of Grace we appropriate/apply the Law in a NEW WAY!:-) The Psalms are a Yeah  & AMEN to The Pentateuch PSALMS 1 1Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the [a]ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; 2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he [b]meditates day and night. Vs. 1) BLESSED Is The Man….. STOP RIGHT HERE!!??......And take a ‘SELAH” Moment!!...This is one of those words in the Bible that can never be FULLY  Unpacked/understood….& It at times it slaps us upside the Head!!?? BLESSED (eser..Esh…air.. #H835)….blessed, happiness, HOW Happy!!! Or Blessedness of Blessedness, or Oh the Happiness of Happinesses or How completely Happy! …PLURAL in Hebrew is for Emphasis, like our !! ‘ Blessed' is also the 1st word used in the Sermon on the Mount & this word is always related to service to God.. we were created to function best serving God The use of the PLURAL in the Hebrew shows powerfully the MANIFOLD or many, many ways God intends to Bless the Man/woman serving HIM! ( ‘There shall be SHOWERS of Blessing!')…POINT: God never just intends for us to Have ONE Blessing…BUT a Plethora of THEM!!!! This person will have all the BEST of everything…gifts, possessions, desires…They will Experience COMPLETE Happiness, in every regard…Complete & Total satisfaction in ALL WAYS, having all you could ever want or desire…This is the best possible state a person could ever be in!!,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,CULMINATION of course = HEAVEN…no wants, no sadness, no pain, no lacks  ..NO dissatisfaction whatsoever!!...a Many faceted Word! HARD for us to get our Minds & Hearts around! (why God made it a Plural word) OH BUT THERE IS MORE!!!>>>>>>>>>>>>   Vs. 1) BLESSED Is The Man….. CONTINUED…. BLESSED (eser..Esh…air.. #H835)…FROM a ROOT #H833 asar…ah-share……to go or be  straight, walk straight, be well ordered, be consistent..READ from the Hebrew as to be/show one of an exceptional state…”The highest blessings attainable are given to those who walk straight & live a well ordered life” II Peter 1:3,4 3 as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, 4 by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the [a]corruption that is in the world through lust. I Tim. 6:6 But Godliness with CONTENTMENT(sufficiency, satisfaction –(a perfect condition in life) is great gain There is a definite connection between Happiness & Godliness! ALL in this person is working perfectly…no Chaos or disorder all is   HARMONY THAT MAN In Hebrew language for emphasis…not just any MAN but The NEW MAN Eph. 4:24  And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.(Col. 3:10) Eph. 2:15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; God wants to Bless us beyond our wildest dreams or Imaginations!! Eph. 3:20 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, BLESSEDNESS  ENCOMPASSES All That God GIVES To US as we walk with Him in a straight & ordered Life…ALL That we can ever give  to Him is responded to By ALL He Gives to Us in Blessing QUESTION!? J LOL…Who GIVES the MOST!? Our commitment to ABBA is so minimal compared to HIS Commitment to us!! The Blessings He showers upon us are so much greater than anything we could ever get to give to Him!?!? The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) is FOUNDATIONAL to a relationship with God & has roots in PSALM 1 It Is a Wonderful Revelation PSALMS starts out with ‘BLESSED' as the FIRST word as every person wants to be BLESSED…we were made that wayJ… The PSALMS show us the path to Blessing!! Who walks not in the counsel of the [a]ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; Verses 1-3 shows us a GROWTH PROCESS 1 What a man/woman of God AVOIDS 2 What a Man/Woman of God DELIGHTS In 3 What a Man/Woman of God BECOMES = A Fruitful Tree A Progression out of Darkness(sin)…………to that of an OVERCOMER Walks…….Stands……Sits Counsel….Way/Path…..Seat Ungodly….Sinners…Scornful WALKS /Walketh NOT:Blessed is the Man/woman who has not been walking & still is NOT walking… Is In the Perfect tense in Hebrew…David is implying BLESSING Comes only after you have begun to walk in a ‘NEW WAY' for a TIME….It grows & flourishes…is proven out through consistency Scripture talks about ‘not walking in' or also‘putting off' sin Lev. 20:23 And ye shall not walk in the manners of the nation, which I cast out before you: for they committed all these things, and therefore I abhorred them. Jn. 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. Romans 13:13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. Romans 8:4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. II Cr. 5:7 For we walk by FAITH & NOT By sight Eph. 4:22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;….Col. 3:8,9 Col. 2:11 In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:   Council Of The Ungodly  is  The advice of those unrighteous criminal, hostile, those not acknowledging God …ungodly = the loose & the lax, taking the easy or lazy way (like a harlot women)..Not strong, no stability Pharisees & Saducees  counciled against Jesus..Mtt.12:14,26:59,14:55,Mk.15:1 Acts 6,7 The council of ungodly leadership led to Stephen's death ROMANS1:18-26 18 For [God does not overlook sin and] the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who in their wickedness suppress and stifle the truth, 19 because that which is known about God is evident within them [in their inner consciousness], for God made it evident to them. 20 For ever since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through His workmanship [all His creation, the wonderful things that He has made], so that they [who fail to believe and trust in Him] are without excuse and without defense. 21 For even though [a]they knew God [as the Creator], they did not [b]honor Him as God or give thanks [for His wondrous creation]. On the contrary, they became worthless in their thinking [godless, with pointless reasonings, and silly speculations], and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Claiming to be wise, they became fools, 23 and exchanged the glory and majesty and excellence of the immortal God for [c]an image [worthless idols] in the shape of mortal man and birds and four-footed animals and reptiles24 Therefore God gave them over in the lusts of their own hearts to [sexual] impurity, so that their bodies would be dishonored among them [abandoning them to the degrading power of sin], 25 because [by choice] they exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen26 For this reason God gave them over to degrading and vile passions; for their women exchanged the natural function for that which is unnatural [a function contrary to nature], Hang up on The Devil! Standing/Stands in The WAY/PATH of Sinners …..A further slide from just listening to sinful advice to beginning to partake of it…then we begin to MISS THE MARK cause Offense, beginning to associate with & practice sin (the worlds ways & habits) First listened…'Hath God said”…then did ‘ate of the fruit' Nor Sits/Sitteth In The Seat of the Scornful(Mocker) …Now living In & Controlled by a life of sin, a Total submission To a Life of Sin…it's become a part of who they are , they now speak evil of the righteous…last & worst state of sin…Total deterioration of a life Open scorn of God , implies a person fighting against God…only place in PSALMS Proverbs 21:24  Proud and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath I Cr. 15:33 Be not deceived evil COMMUNICATIONS corrupt good Morals. Proverbs 4:23,24 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. 24 Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee. NEW Testament Parallel… James 1:13-15 13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. 14 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. 15 Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death. **The UNGODLY are  not just rapists, murders, adulterers(the WORST kinds of sinners) …BUT Those Who GIVE NO Thought to GOD or have no Time for Him In their Lives** A Progression from  GOD-CENTERED Living To Self-Centered….(Phil. 2) WALKS---Decisions, we make decisions all day long (Is GOD always in the Picture?) STANDS----He does not make waves, complain, murmur, riot ** SINNERS…here means to make a loud noise, tulmult**(I Cr. 10:10 the murmurs were destroyed by the destroyer) SCORNFUL----- one sense of scorn = ‘to throw off'..He does not play the blame game, He takes responsibility for His life   NOW THE CONTRAST OF BLESSING IS BROUGHT IN! IN :  little word both  in vs. 1 & 2 YOU cannot be on the fence ,you are  either IN God or Out of God & IN Sin Hebrew language stops &  says of the Ungodly progression…  NAY Absolutely NOT!! … As Paul said throughout His Epistles God FORBID…But NOW THIS!!....   2)But His DELIGHT Is In The Law of The Lord & In HIS LAW Does He MEDITATE Day & Night…. DELIGHT…(Hepes) VERB..A Longing, a taking pleasure in a Bending Towards…EXPRESSING that His/Her Whole being is Bent towards something….(GOD)..to firmly adhere to, be wrapped around…ROOT WORD…To attack or catch by pursuit…a tracking down (violent chase…God Chasers)…A COMPLETE obsession with ,desire for, ALL you LIVE For & Every principal you apply in life is to bring you to  the possession of your desire LAW … ‘That which points out or instructs, teaches, gives direction' Torah, Pentateuch..Instruction, doctrine When the Heart is drawn to God….so also will the mind be drawn to God Example of men & womenJ Proverbs 23:7 As A Man THINKS In His Heart So Is He What You Love (delight in ) is what you will think about!..whatever your mind runs toward is what will FEED or Delight your Heart…If the Heart loves a certain type of food the mind will produce it Examine your brain, to see what you are like…but let God council you so you are w/o condemnation MEDITATE… (Haga) to moan, growl, utter, muse, mutter, meditate, devise, plot, speak…Roar….Muttering & speaking to oneself over & over again, in a low voice..One Scholar speaks of the picture of a cow ‘Bringing up its cud, to chew on again & again Also murmur …not in anger , but in pleasure, in a low voice (SEE GeniusJ))… ..growling in pleasure over prey …thinking, pondering, considering , MARINATING…rumination ‘to toss up in the air' Just as Lions devour & enjoy their prey we must devour, feed upon & relish God's Word PSALMS are just made for Meditation PSALM 2:1 Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine (HAGA)a vain thing? Godly Meditation is your Lifeline… James 1:25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed Psalm 77:6,11,12 Psalm 143:5..119:15,78,97,99,148…different word for Hebrew(meditate) same meaning Romans 12:1,2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.   Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Day & Night…….. Continually, in Blessing or Trial…your mind always goes here, even in doing other things during the day always in the back of your mind Luke 2:36,37 Anna Prophetess , served God With Fasting & prayers Night & Day TO  STIMULATE Your Mind with GOD's WORD Brings Life & Refreshing RECAP…. Vs. 1 Blessing is declared for those who determine to walk uprightly Vs.2 We begin to see where the Blessed Persons Thoughts gravitate towards Vs. 3 We are now seeing what The Man/ Woman of God BECOMES Because  as you DELIGHT In & MEDITATE on GOD …(actually anything) you become like what you Behold II Cor. 3:18 18 And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate[a] the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.      

Background Material On The Psalms Having examined some of unique characteristics of Hebrew poetry in general, let's now focus on the book of Psalms itself... The Origin Of The Word "Psalm" a.)‘Mizmor'  is the  Hebrew word for PSALMS & means melody (music), or songs (words –poetry with/without Music)…Ps. 67 & 68…used 57 times…used in Praise & Worship..From a root  word meaning to ‘prune or cut off' ..thus speaks of a composition that cuts off all else, is simple & to the point The Greek word is "psalmos", from the Hebrew word "zmr" meaning "to pluck"; i.e., taking hold of the strings of an instrument with the fingers. It implies that the psalms were originally composed to be accompanied by a stringed instrument. "Psalms are songs for the lyre, and therefore lyric poems in the strictest sense."(Delitzsch, Psalms, Vol. I, p. 7) David and others therefore originally wrote the Psalms to be sung to the accompaniment of the harp. In New Testament worship, we are told to sing the psalms to the accompaniment of the heart: "...in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord" (Ep 5:19) The phrase, "making melody," comes from the Greek word "psallontes" (literally, plucking the strings of). Therefore, we are to "pluck the strings of our heart" as we sing the psalms (i.e., to sing with emotion). b)Tehillium  There is NOT a Hebrew Title for the Book of Psalms that encompasses all of the Psalms…Many Psalms (2 out of 3) had individual Titles. Probably the most common Title was ‘Tehillium' ( used of Ps. 96 + 30 other Psalms) …The root  of Tehillium is ‘Hallal'(Hallelujah) or ‘Praise'…literally means to show, be brilliant, be clear(SHINE)……Point: As we Praise God we begin to see things more clearly than any other timeJ!   There is NOT a Normal TITLE For the Book of Psalms in its entirety, about a 116 of the 150 Psalms were given each an individual ‘TITLE' or inscription showing it was intended for a specific Instrument or Chief Musician ‘UPON' means theme ,occasion, object of attention, could also mean the type of instrument used ‘OF' = Author ‘FOR' = Whom the Psalm was directed to for use or attention(Ps.72,84) BREAKDOWN of Titles: 52 had simple title of ‘A Psalm of David', 14 had Historical Titles( ex. When David fled from His enemies) 4 Tiles listed a specific purpose like for Sabbath day,15 Had a Degree , 31 had special & unique inscriptions No paragraphs in Hebrew so had to decide beginning of next Psalm Some TITLES… MICHTAM(Mik-tam)  Meaning “To Teach”,also suggests engraving on tablets, alluding to the 12 tribes engraved on precious stones on the breast plate of the High Priest, signifying Israel was His special Treasure engraved upon  God's Heart… Psalm 16,56,57,58,59,60 SHIGGAION,SHIGIONOTH Means Obscure, wild , rhythmic song & dance, ‘Moffatt' says of this title, means a song of irregular form; wild & vehement in character,' they were beside themselves as they danced', A reaction to a heavy anointing of the Spirit of the Lord, dancing , praising , shouting, singing with unrestraint… see David in II Sam. 6:16..Psalm 7, Hab. 3:1 Shoshannim Means ‘Lilies or Choice Ones' 45,69,80 MASCHIL (Mas-kil) Means Instruction & also alludes to skillful singing & playing  Psalm32,42,44,45,52,53,54,55,74,78,88,89,142 JEDUTHUN Means ‘A Choir of Praise' Jeduthun was formerly Ethan..A Levite  one of the three masters of music appointed by David. (1 Chr. 16:41, 42; 25:1-6) His office was generally to preside over the music of the temple service. They set up a perpetual order of praise & worship in the Temple…Through their singing & playing of instruments God was glorified & spoke prophetically to His people(II Chron 25:1)…PSALM 39,66,77 LEANNOTH Ellicot says of this title..a very perplexing meaning …it encompasses sickness, distress, sadness, afflictions…played or sung in a melancholy dirge , had to do with repentance & humbling of oneself..Psalm 12,13,88,53,14..Hos.5:3-15,6:1-3, Isa. 1:4-9 Deut.32:26-36 SHUSHAN-EDUTH _Means ‘Lily of Testimony' or ‘Lily of Speech'…a beautiful song of worship or Praise Psalm 60 HIGGAION means thought, reflection, meditation, solemn sound(identical to Selah) Psalm 9,19,92 SELAH IS Not a Title, yet this word is found 71 times throughout the PSALMS….means a Pause also means ROCK SHIR means to stroll or skip along in song found in 30 Titles ALL These Speak of JESUS     3.)      The History Of The Psalms The oldest of the Psalms originate from the time of Moses (1400 B.C.). We have three psalms penned by Moses: Exo 15:1-15 - a song of triumph following the crossing of the Red Sea Deut 32, 33 - a song of exhortation to keep the Law after entering Canaan Ps 90 - a song of meditation, reflection, and prayer After Moses, the writing of Psalms had its "peaks" and "valleys"... In David (1000 B.C.), the sacred lyric attained to its full maturity. With Solomon, the creation of psalms began to decline; this was "the age of the proverb." Only twice after this did the creation of psalms rise to any height, and then only for a short period: under Jehoshaphat (875 B.C.) and again under Hezekiah (725 B.C.). The Authors Of The Psalms David - Commonly thought to be the author of the book of Psalms, but he actually wrote only about seventy-three (73), less than half. David's experiences can be found in the Psalms, yet NOT HIS alone. Asaph - The music director during the reigns of David and Solomon (1 Chr 16:1-7). He wrote twelve (12) psalms. The Sons of Korah - These were Levites who served in the Temple (1 Chr 26:1-19). They wrote twelve (12) psalms. Solomon - At least two (2) psalms are attributed to him (Ps 72, 127). That he wrote many more is stated in 1Ki 4:29-32. Moses - As indicated above, he wrote the earliest psalms; one is included in Psalms (Ps 90). Heman - Contemporary with David and Asaph, and is known as "the singer" (1Ch 6:33). He wrote one psalm (Ps 88) that has been preserved. Ethan - A companion with Asaph and Heman in the Temple worship (1 Chr 15:19). He wrote one psalm (Ps 89). Anonymous - The authorship of forty-eight (48) of the psalms is unknown.                 4.)  The Arrangement Of The Psalms The Psalms were originally collected into five "books", apparently according to the material found within them...some say each ‘book' coincides with the 5 books of the  TORAH Book I (Ps 1-41) emphasizes how God is besideus.(Ps.1,Ps. 23,,dox.=Ps.41:13) Book II (Ps 42-72)emphasizes how God goes beforeus (Ps. 51)(dox. 72:19) Book III (Ps 73-89) reminds us that God is all aroundus.(Ps. 78 Asaph, God was w/Isr. Thruout their History )(dox. Ps.89:52) Book IV (Ps 90-106) focuses on how God is aboveus.(Moses Man is finite, God is Eternal) (dox. 106:48) Book V (Ps 107-150) the spotlight is on how the God is among (Ps. 128 How a man who fears God is Blessed by God) (dox. 150:1-6) The Psalms can also be arranged into chief "groups"... Alphabetic or Acrostic - These psalms have lines which in Hebrew start with words whose first letters follow a certain pattern. For example, in Ps 119 the first eight lines start with words beginning with the Hebrew letter ALEPH, the second eight lines with words beginning with BETH, etc. This may have been done to aid in the memorization of the psalm. Ethical - These psalms teach moral principles. A good example is Psa 15. Hallelujah - These are psalms of praise, beginning and/or ending with "hallelujah" or "praise Jehovah". Ps 103 is one such example. Historical - Psalms which review the history of God's dealings with His people. A good sample would be Ps 106. Imprecatory - These psalms invoke God to bring punishment or judgment upon one's enemies. Consider Ps 69 as an example. Messianic - Psalms pertaining to the coming Messiah. For example, look at Ps 2 or Ps 110. Penitential - These are psalms expressing sorrow for sins that have been committed. A classic example is David's psalm in Ps 51. Songs Of Ascent (or Songs Of Degrees) - These psalms were possibly sung by pilgrims on the way to Jerusalem to observe the feasts. They are grouped together as Ps 120-134. Suffering - These psalms are cries of those suffering affliction. Psa 102 is a typical example. Thanksgiving - Psalms of grateful praise to Jehovah for blessings received. For example, take a look at Ps 100. The various "styles" of the psalms can be described as... Didactic - Psalms of teaching and instruction (e.g., Ps 1). Liturgical - Responsive readings, for use in special services (e.g., Ps 136). Meditation - The ancient Hebrews were given to meditation, which spirit finds expression in many of the psalms (e.g., Ps 119). Praise and Devotion - Psalms of joyful praise (e.g., Ps 148). Prayer and Petition - Psalms which were sung in an attitude of prayer (e.g., Ps 51). The Music of The Psalms…. King David chose Chief Musicians & Their sons to give forth music in the Temple CHIEF MUSCIANS.. Asaph,  Hemen,  Jeduthun(also called Ethan) I Chronicles 25:1-7   David, together with the commanders of the army, set apart some of the sons of Asaph, Heman and Jeduthun for the ministry of prophesying, accompanied by harps, lyres and cymbals. Here is the list of the men who performed this service: 2 From the sons of Asaph: Zakkur, Joseph, Nethaniah and Asarelah. The sons of Asaph were under the supervision of Asaph, who prophesied under the king's supervision. 3 As for Jeduthun, from his sons: Gedaliah, Zeri, Jeshaiah, Shimei,[a] Hashabiah and Mattithiah, six in all, under the supervision of their father Jeduthun, who prophesied, using the harp in thanking and praising the Lord. 4 As for Heman, from his sons: Bukkiah, Mattaniah, Uzziel, Shubael and Jerimoth; Hananiah, Hanani, Eliathah, Giddalti and Romamti-Ezer; Joshbekashah, Mallothi, Hothir and Mahazioth. 5 (All these were sons of Heman the king's seer. They were given him through the promises of God to exalt him. God gave Heman fourteen sons and three daughters.) 6 All these men were under the supervision of their father for the music of the temple of the Lord, with cymbals, lyres and harps, for the ministry at the house of God. Asaph, Jeduthun and Heman were under the supervision of the king. 7 Along with their relatives—all of them trained and skilled in music for the Lord—they numbered 288. I CHRONICLES 9:33,34  Many Levites were also Musicians who played & sang before God in the Temple 24/7 Specific Musical Instruments were used (I Chron. 16:4-6, 42)  Psalterys,  harps,cymbals,trumpets (for priests only), flute like & wind like instruments Words have stayed, Music has changed Music was meant to set the mood for Temple Worship God created us to Enjoy & create Music….music helps us become more vulnerable before each other & God…Zeph. 3:17 Song of Songs a book that is a SONG Songs help instruct you & aid our memories…..Isaiah 5:1, 35:10, Deut. 31:19,32:1 Songs are an ultimate medium of expression to God… RE. 5:9,14:2,3,15:3   TYPES of PSALMS Petitions, Prayers, Protection….Ps. 86,Ps.102 Praise…Psalm 145-150, Ps.47 Confessions of Faith…Ps. 33 & 94 Repentance…. Ps.51,130 Intercession….Psalms 6,21,67,122 Cursing (Imprecatory), Judgment of the wicked…Psalm 35,59,109 Instruction…Ps. 37,73,122 Questioning God…Psalm 9,10,14,49 Memorial ,historical, narrative, teaching, & parable Allegory, enlightenment, revelation, & prophetic TYPES of PSALMS Praise, hope, trust,  faith, exaltation of God, Love for God & His Word, thanksgiving, joy + longing Exultation, rejoicing, gladness, happiness, & deliverance Dedication, confession, repentance, prayer, & petition Humility, intercession, refuge, inquiry, need, & fear Lamentation, woe, sorrow, oppression, bondage, & trouble Acknowledgement of God's love & blessings, mercy, grace, truth, power, position, & love for His willing people; & their reciprocal love for their lover, bridegroom, espoused husband, king, redeemer, & Lord.   Conclusion: The Psalms provides to us,  BOTH,  a beautiful, meditational  book of Song & worship as well as containing bits & pieces of ALL Major Doctrine  to be studied along with All of the aspects of  Life physically & spiritually mankind experiences on earth. It has been said of the Psalms one finds “expressed an eager yearning & longing for God's PRESENCE” Psalms certainly contains ‘prayers & songs of joyous praise' Psalms are a collection of honest, needy, expressions of vulnerable hearts to God.  All emotions known to man are expressed in beautiful  & inspired prose within this book. Whatever state you find yourself in you can begin to find comfort & answers in the PSALMS….just start to read through them…If you are depressed, feeling anger & hate, in grief,, in fear, in joy, feeling sadness, feeling wronged & misunderstood by others, needing Justice, seeking to run & hide, seeking someone to be vulnerable with, seeking prayer, in need of repentance, Feeling Joy & Delight, Feeling doubt or Faith…The PSALMS cover the whole Gamut of Human Emotions & Thought…You CAN ADOPT THEM AS YOUR OWN PRAYERS, as well as pen your own ‘personal Psalms' before Abba!!!     James 1:23-25 J.B. Phillips New Testament 21-25 Have done, then, with impurity and every other evil which touches the lives of others, and humbly accept the message that God has sown in your hearts, and which can save your souls. Don't I beg you, only hear the message, but put it into practice; otherwise you are merely deluding yourselves. The man who simply hears and does nothing about it is like a man catching the reflection of his own face in a mirror. He sees himself, it is true, but he goes on with whatever he was doing without the slightest recollection of what sort of person he saw in the mirror. But the man who looks into the perfect mirror of God's law, the law of liberty (or freedom), and makes a habit of so doing, is not the man who sees and forgets. He puts that law into practice and he wins true happiness.        

PSALMS Introduction To The Psalms PSALMS Bible Quiz….(08/29/22) What BOOK of the Bible Is at the VERY CENTER of The Bible?________________________________ The Longest Chapter in the Bible Is________________________________ The Shortest Chapter of The Bible Is____________ List 3 authors of the Psalms______________________________ ***EXTRA CREDIT***  Two Verses In  a NT Gospel Mention ‘PSALMS' as Prophetic of Christ what are the verses?_____________________________________________________________________________ What Passage In the NT mentioning Psalms is prophetic of Judas betrayal of Christ? _____________________________________________________________________________________ What Three passages In The Epistles mention the Psalms in operation in the church for edification?_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ The Book at the Center of your Bible is PSALMS The Chapter In The Very Center of Your Bible Is PSALM 118 The fact can be argued depending on what Bible version you are using, but by most reckoning, the very center of the Bible when measured by chapter count is Psalms 118. . Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.2 Let Israel now say, “His mercy endures forever.” 3 Let the house of Aaron now say, “His mercy endures forever.” 4 Let those who fear the Lord now say, “His mercy endures forever.”     Some Scholars say PSALM 117 is the center chapter of the Bible Notwithstanding, PSALM 117 IS the Shortest Chapter in God's Word 1) Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles! [a]Laud Him, all you peoples! 2 )For His merciful kindness is great toward us, And the truth of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord Here are some other fun facts surrounding Psalms 117 & 118: The longest chapter of the Bible falls just after this center chapter-- Psalm 119. The shortest chapter of the Bible falls just after this center chapter-- Psalm 117. There are exactly 594 chapters before Psalm 118, and exactly 594 chapters after it. When you add the number of chapters before Psalms 118 and those after, the sum is 1,118. And the verse at the very center of the Bible is Psalms 118:8. The Very Center Verse of God's WORD Is…. Psalm 118:8 - "It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man." (NIV) In  following History this verse is 3500 years after creation & 3500 years until the close of the Millennium ( In the CENTER of All Time!!) This center verse of the Bible reminds believers to ask the question, "Are you centered in your trust in God?" It is a particular verse that reminds Christians to trust in God over trusting in themselves or other people. As Christians understand, God consistently provides for us and His grace is given to us freely. Even in the most difficult times, we should center ourselves by trusting in God. He is there making us strong, giving us joy, and carrying us when life weighs heavily on us. Miscellaneous Thoughts… “The PSALMS”  Refers to the 150 songs under that title in the English O.T., sometimes called “The Psalter”, from the Greek psalterion, or psalmi;1st used in the Greek translation & version of the O.T. known as the Septuagint, (so called for the 70 translations from the Hebrew to the Greek) designated often LXX , & dating from 300-200 BC. The O.T. had 3 Main sections of Books …The Law, the Prophets, & the Psalms Each Psalm is an individual song The Psalms subject matter is without Limit The Psalms are also greatly varying forms of Poetry The Book of Psalms stands  BETWEEN the Old & New Covenants Some Psalms spanned 1000 year period as between Moses & Hezekiah The Psalms show us the CENTRAL THEME of God's Word…His SON PSALMS is a ‘Spiritual Song Book' ,standing between the Cherubim PSALMS is LOADED With the Experiences of Jesus & His Church PSALMS shows  to us God's Mercy, Love,  & Judgment PSALMS is for All Men, in All Times &  All Seasons In a ‘Nutshell' The Psalms is a devotional, through which Jesus wants to speak to us In The end each one of us is writing our own ‘Personal Psalm' Psalms are are useful as: The Christian's "hymnal" to assist us in our praise to God The Christian's "prayer book" in which we learn how to approach God in prayer The Christian's "book of evidences" to strengthen our faith in Jesus Christ The Christian's "training guide" for living holy and righteous lives before God   Reasons To Study The Psalms As Christians, we are commanded to utilize the Psalms: Speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, (Ep 5:19) Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. (Col 3:16) Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms. (Jm 5:13)     Thus the Psalms are useful for singing praises to God. They are also useful for teaching and confirming that Jesus is the Christ or Messiah. Note the use Jesus made of them (Lk 24:44-47), 44 Then He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.” 45 And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures. 46 Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, [a]and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, 47 and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. (Psa 2:1-12; Psa 16:9-11; Psa 22:1-31; Psa 40:6-8; Psa 69:1-36; Psa 72:1-20; Psa 88:1-18; Psa 109:4-20; Psa 110:1-7; Psa 118:22;) and also Peter's use of them in his first gospel sermon (Ac 2:25-28,34-35). 25 For David says concerning Him: ‘I foresaw the Lord always before my face, For He is at my right hand, that I may not be shaken. 26 Therefore my heart rejoiced, and my tongue was glad; Moreover my flesh also will rest in hope. 27 For You will not leave my soul in Hades, Nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption. 28 You have made known to me the ways of life; You will make me full of joy in Your presence.' 34 “For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he says himself: ‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand, 35 Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.” '(Psalm 16:8-11, 73:23) The Aim Of This Study It is my prayer that as we study this book we will accomplish the following goals: Become more familiar with Old Testament poetry - This is essential to getting more out the Psalms, and important if we are to avoid misinterpreting them Develop an appreciation and working knowledge of the Psalms - So one may utilize them for his or her own comfort and encouragement, and in counseling and comforting others Glean a clearer picture of God's character - To better understand His love, mercy and deliverance towards the righteous, but also His wrath and judgment against the wicked Learn more of the Christ in prophecy - To note descriptions of His suffering and glorious reign found in the Psalms, some of which are not found elsewhere in Scripture Consider examples of fulfilled prophecies - To see in fulfilled prophecy irrefutable arguments for the inspiration of the Scriptures, and for the claim that Jesus of Nazareth is the Messiah We will do (STUDY)this in TWO WAYS…..a.) Individual Psalms  b) Taking a ‘Theme' (like Praise, fear etc…) & studying it throughout the Entire Book of Psalms MORE Reasons To Study The Psalms…………….  Shows Characteristics Of Hebrew Poetry(Psalms  is part of the poetic ‘BOOKS'—Job, Proverbs, Ecc. & SofS also) Before we get into the background of the Psalms themselves, it may prove beneficial to consider some things about Hebrew poetry. Not only will this help to better understand the nature of the Psalms, but it can also assist in proper interpretation of this portion of Scripture. NOTE: wherein the English language of poetry has a clear rhyme & meter there is not a clear consensus  on the REAL flavor of Hebraic poetry…Hebrew is a fluid language, & Poetry has 5 Hebrew meanings , with some words showing opposite meanings. One of the things that makes Hebrew poetry different is... The Use Of "Thought Rhyme" Also known as "parallelism", thought rhyme involves arranging thoughts in relation to each other. This is done without a concern as to whether certain words rhyme with each other (as found in most modern poetry). In the Psalms, we find several different kinds of thought rhyme: Synonymous parallelism - The thought of first line is repeated in the second line, expressed in different words for the sake of emphasis. A good example is found in Ps 24:2...For He has founded it upon the seas, And established it upon the waters. (same idea, reworded) Antithetical parallelism - The truth presented in one line is strengthened by a contrasting statement in the next line. Consider this example from Ps 1:6...For the LORD knows the way of the righteous, But the way of the ungodly shall perish. (note the contrast) Synthetic parallelism - The first and second lines bear some definite relation to each other (such as cause and effect, or proposition and conclusion). A good example is Ps 119:11...Your word I have hidden in my heart, (cause) That I might not sin against You! (effect) Progressive parallelism - There are several varieties of this form, the most common being:Stair-like - Composed of several lines, each providing a complete element of the aggregate or composite thought. Notice Ps 1:1...Blessed is the man... Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; (note the progression) Climatic - Here the principal idea in the first line is repeated and expanded to complete the thought. An example is found in Ps 29:1...Give unto the LORD, O you mighty ones (give what?) Give unto the LORD glory and strength. (the answer) Introverted parallelism - The first line is closely related in thought to the fourth, and the second to the third. For example, consider Psa 91:14...Because he has set his love upon Me, (note line 4) therefore I will deliver him; (note line 3) I will set him on high, (note line 2) because he has known My name. (note line 1) Contrasted parallelism –The 1st line is in contrast to the 2nd line (Ps. 1:6)                                  Blessed is the man…..But His delight It is often fascinating to note how creative the Hebrew poets were as they composed their poetry using "thought rhyme" rather than "word rhyme". In some cases it even helps in interpreting difficult expressions or phrases. Another characteristic of Hebrew poetry is... The Lack Of Poetic Rhythm Much modern poetry has standard measures of identifiable rhythm, as in the poem "Mary Had A Little Lamb." With the Hebrews, however, the art of poetic rhythm was of secondary consideration. Some suggest that it is not likely that the Hebrew poets had standard measures, worked out and carefully defined. Again, their focus was on "thought rhyme," not "word rhyme." Finally, an important characteristic of Hebrew poetry is... The Use Of Figurative Expression The Psalms are filled with figurative expressions, and as such it is important to keep certain principles of interpretation in mind... The figure must be accepted and dealt with as a figure of speech, not as a literal statement For example, in Ps 18:31, the Lord is called "a rock." He is like a rock, but not one literally. In Ps 51:4, David says "Against You, You only, have I sinned." Yet he is confessing his sin of adultery with Bathsheba, in which he sinned not only against the Lord, but against his wife, against Uriah, and many others. David was speaking figuratively for the sake of expressing his deep grief in sinning against God, and we must allow for figurative expressions including hyperbole in poetic writings. One needs to be careful and not develop doctrinal beliefs upon what may be figurative expressions not intended to be taken literally. The figure must be interpreted in light of its meaning in the setting in which it was used For example, in Ps 23:4, we find the well-known phrase: "the valley of the shadow of death." It is not uncommon to hear the phrase applied at funerals to the act of dying. In the setting of the psalm, however, it refers to a treacherous place (such as a steep valley, where deep shadows can easily cause a misstep resulting in death), where the guiding hand of a shepherd would be very helpful to sheep to avoid death. It is therefore applicable to any time one is in perilous straits and in need of God's guiding hand. The Language of Similar sounds…(Psalm 132 …broad, guttural sounds, like a dirge)…words that sound like what they mean…cuckoo, splash, ping pong…kol-be-seder=Copacetic ….leviatin=Leviathan)………The Hebrew language is a language of SOUND that impacts our feelings & emotions………Emotion was part of the Hebrew communication, it should be likewise for us…Our communication IS 78% non-verbal. Lyrical Poetry- Poetry based on lyrics…the language is a perfect fit for the actions , it gives great pictures, broad concepts, & distinct sounds….(Psalm 110) Appreciating these characteristics of Hebrew poetry can help the Psalms become more meaningful, and understanding these characteristics can also help avoid misinterpreting the Psalms to teach doctrines the psalmist had no intention of teaching!

TESTIMONIES………………06/23/02 Revelation 12:11 11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death. Martyria   a testifying A WITNESS the office committed to the prophets of testifying concerning future events (Rev. 19:10 Jesus =Spirit of Prophecy…) what one testifies, testimony, i.e. before a judge evidence given (judicially or genitive case):—record, report, testimony, witness. Some Meanings…..a)A formal written or spoken statement (that is evidence) given especially in a court of law…b) PROOF provided by the existence or appearance of something (Testament, proof, evidence)..c) a public recounting of a religious conversion or experience…The story a WITNESS tells,,,An open , public declaration of FAITH WORDS/SYNONYMS………….Judgment, TRUTH, Confession, DEMONSTRATION, declaration, Evidence, WITNESS,  Confirmation, RECOLLECTION, Testimonial, REVELATION, attest to something, validation, SUBSTANTIATE, proof, Precepts of God(like 10 commandments) The person(s) giving TESTIMONY has special qualifications or credentials to give credence to what they say or show Always GIVEN in the Public Arena ACTS 1:8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be [a*]witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” *Martys…derivative of Martyria…also from where we get the word Martyr a witness in a legal sense an historical sense one who is a spectator of anything, e.g. of a contest in an ethical sense those who after his example have proved the strength and genuineness of their faith in Christ by undergoing a violent death Most literally One who bears witness by death           II Timothy 1:6-8 6 Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God, MIND TRAFFIC #101!! 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 14 For the love of Christ ###compels us###, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; 15 and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again. Galatians 5:5-6 5 For we [not relying on the Law but] through the [strength and power of the Holy] Spirit, by faith, are waiting [confidently] for the hope of righteousness [the completion of our salvation]. 6 For [if we are] in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but only faith activated and expressed and working through love. ### If you Have FAITH you will Take ACTION Eph. 2:10 For we are His Masterpiece created unto unto useful, excellent, distinguished 7& honorable deeds, products,& arts of wonder,,, ACTS 2:22 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved (declared,demonstrate, prove by argument)of God among you by miracles and **wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know(Mk. 16:15-18) Wonder (Noun and Verb): A PRODIGY "something strange," causing the beholder to marvel, is always used in the plural, always rendered "wonders," and generally follows semeia, "signs;" the opposite order occurs in Act 2:22, 43; 6:8, RV; Act 7:36; in Act 2:19 "wonders" occurs alone. A sign is intended to appeal to the understanding, a "wonder" appeals to the imagination, a power (dunamis) indicates its source as supernatural. "Wonders" are manifested as Divine operations in thirteen occurrences (9 times in Acts); three times they are ascribed to the work of Satan through human agents, Mat 24:24; Mar 13:22; 2Th 2:9. Revelation 12:11 b    and they DID NOT Love their lives to the DEATH ACTS 22:20 ‘Mar—toos' (from Martyria) & also means ‘witness'(Rev.17:5,6..Blood of the Martyrs) Does LIVING out the real TRUTH(Testimony) in our Lives demand/compel ones death if Necessary?…example ‘This is the hill I will die on'

Philippians : Conclusion …(10/01/21) Introduction: Philippians carries a simple yet profound Message, emphasizing the concepts of Joy & Rejoicing in a community of Saints knit together in unity through a lifestyle of humility. These are traits of God's Character that cannot be manufactured in our own strength Philippians teaches us what it is to Live a Powerful, Joy-filled & grateful life every day no matter the circumstances we find ourselves in. This Epistle challenges us to aspire to a greater level of Joy & Rejoicing, which comes through having a greater awareness of God's Goodness. Five THEMES: Joy & Rejoicing In every circumstance : Joy is mentioned 5 times(1:4,25, 2:2,29, 4:1) Rejoicing is mentioned 11 times…(1:18,2:17, 2:18,2:28,4:4, 3:1,4:10) Jesus Christ & His Availability for coping with the problems of life (Chpt 4) Christ pictured as the goal & center of our lives (Chpt. 3) Unity comes through the bond of Humility & Joy (Chpt. 2) A Primer for Living a Joy-Filled Life Chapter 1: THEME: ‘Christ our LIFE' (vs. 21)  Authentic Joy & Rejoicing Is Birthed in an AWARENESS of God's Goodness, in your life which leads to gratitude Phil. 1:3-6 3 I thank my God every time I remember you. 4 In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Phil. 1:12-14 Paul was in chains for Christ, which actually ADVANCED the Gospel Phil. 1:21 21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.   Chapter 2: THEME: ‘Christ Our Mind' (vs. 5) Phil. 2:1-4 So by whatever [appeal to you there is in our mutual dwelling in Christ, by whatever] strengthening and consoling and encouraging [our relationship] in Him [affords], by whatever persuasive [a]incentive there is in love, by whatever participation in the [Holy] Spirit [we share], and by whatever depth of affection and compassionate sympathy2 Fill up and complete my joy by living in harmony and being of the same mind and one in purpose, having the same love, being in full accord and of one harmonious mind and intention.3 Do nothing from factional motives [through contentiousness, strife, selfishness, or for unworthy ends] or prompted by conceit and empty arrogance. Instead, in the true spirit of humility (lowliness of mind) let each regard the others as better than and superior to himself [thinking more highly of one another than you do of yourselves]. 4 Let each of you esteem and look upon and be concerned for not [merely] his own interests, but also each for the interests of others. Chapter 2: : THEME: ‘Christ Our Mind' (vs. 5) Having a ‘Kenosis Encounter' Phil. 2:5-11 5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, being in the form of God, did not consider it [b]robbery to be equal with God, 7 but [c]made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. 9 Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. God at Work work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; 13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.   Chapter 3: Christ Our Goal PHIL. 3:7-14 But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. 8 Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith; 10 that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, 11 if, by any means, I may attain[b] to the resurrection from the dead. Pressing Toward the Goal 12 Not that I have already attained,[c] or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. 13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have [d]apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.     Chapter 4: Christ Our Strength Rejoice:. Phil. 4:4  4 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Mandates for Meditation: Phil. 4:6-9 6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Meditate on These Things 8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. Phil. 4:13 13 I can do all things through [f]Christ who strengthens me. Four-Eight ThinkingJ (The 4:8 Principle~Tommy Newberry) 6 Don't worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise—dwell on these things. A 4:8 Thought life is one that is full of Gratitude & JOY!( SEE: Mind Traffic ) Joy IS an outward sign of inward Faith in the Promises of GOD…a symptom of Faith Your thought Life multiplies or shrinks your talents If you dwell on your strengths, your blessings, your goals , & all the people who love you , then you will attract even more blessings, even more love, & even more accomplishments God has designed you to be able to bring your thinking into the domain of your conscious , creative control, through which you will begin to discover an enormous advantage to begin to sculpt the conditions of your life. Proverbs 3:5-6.. Trust in the Lord with all your heart     and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways submit to him,     and he will make your paths straight.[a]   Psalm 37:1-6 Do not fret because of those who are evil     or be envious of those who do wrong; 2 for like the grass they will soon wither,     like green plants they will soon die away. 3 Trust in the Lord and do good;     dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. 4 Take delight in the Lord,     and he will give you the desires of your heart. 5 Commit your way to the Lord;     trust in him and he will do this: 6 He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn,     your vindication like the noonday sun. Romans 1:21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened   Joy & Rejoicing are Cousins of GRATITUDEJ!!(You can NEVER have one without the other)…see ‘The 10 Lepers' GRATITUDE is a conviction, a practice, & a discipline. GRATITUDE is an essential nutrient , a kind of amino-acid for Growth in God, His creativity & His Joy GRATITUDE involves channeling your energy & attention toward what is present & working rather than what is absent & ineffective GRATITUDE is like a mental gearshift that takes you from turbulence to peacefulness, from stagnation to creativity GRATITUDE is the CORNERSTONE OF AN UNTOPPABLE FAITH GRATITUDE can be cultivated& experienced at ever deepening levels GRATITUDE is an effective antidote to most negative emotions…you cannot experience Hostility & Gratitude at the same time…you must choose! GRATITUDE is BOTH a skill & a feeling …the more you appreciate today, the more things you will notice tomorrow to be Grateful for!    An Awesome companion Book to get when you study this Epistle is "The 4:8 Principle"~Tommy Newberry...also his workbook will aid you in working out & applying Philippians Concepts to your life..."40 Days To a Joy-Filled Life"

CONTENTMENT ~ Philippians 4:10-23….09/24/21 THEME: Christ our Strength 10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your[c] care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity. 11 Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: 12 I know how to [d]be abased, and I know how to [e]abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 13 I can do all things through [f]Christ who strengthens me. 14 Nevertheless you have done well that you shared in my distress. 15 Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only. 16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. 18 Indeed I [g]have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God. 19 And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. 20 Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen. 21 Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren who are with me greet you. 22 All the saints greet you, but especially those who are of Caesar's household. 23 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with [h]you all. Amen. VS.10) But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your[c] care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity Has Flourished… This  Greek phrase was taken from this OT. Verse…(EZE. 17:24 All the trees of the forest will know that I the Lord bring down the tall tree and make the low tree grow tall. I dry up the green tree and make the dry tree flourish….I the LORD hath spoken & I will do it) Meaning to sprout or blossom again…”Ye have caused your thinking on Me to Bloom anew, ye revived your thought for me”~ Vincent…”Ye budded forth again in caring for my interest”~Alford…In other words the Philippian allowed their care & concern for Paul come to fruition ONCE AGAIN. POINT HERE: This is in regard to the Gift the Philippians had sent to Paul via Epaphroditus (Phil. 1:3-5,4:11,15-19) This was a delicate situation, that though Paul was touched by it & cared very much about responding to them in thankfulness he had to be careful as a general rule he did not receive ‘monetary support' so as to look like false teachers who constantly fleeced the people. Lacked opportunity most likely due to Epaphroditus becoming sick enroute to see Paul LUKE 6:38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.   11 Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I have learned The Greek language conveys the idea of entering into a NEW CONDITION…meaning for Paul coming from a place of being raised by Rich Jewish parents had learned or was in process of learning what it meant to be content CONTENT this word was used by Greek Stoics to show that men should all be' sufficient unto themselves' in all circumstances ( good or bad) it speaks of self –sufficiency & competency…HOWEVER Paul's sufficiency was NOT This…But ‘CHRIST-SUFFICIENCY' Paul lived independent of circumstances because He depended on CHRIST II Cor. 3:5 Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God. I Cor. 6:6-8 6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. Hebrews 13:5  Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you;     never will I forsake you.”[a] 12 I know how to [d]be abased, and I know how to [e]abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 13 I can do all things through [f]Christ who strengthens me. Abased To be humbled, brought low, depress, make level reduce in Rank…a state of humiliation….here Paul uses the word to show HOW he was able to live FRUGALY as a Minister (Phil. 2:8,3:21) II Cr. 4:7-10 7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8 We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 10 We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. II Cr. 6:9-10 9 known, yet regarded as unknown; dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed; 10 sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything. II Cr. 11:23-31 Paul's ‘abasement resume'     12 I know how to [d]be abased, and I know how to [e]abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 13 I can do all things through [f]Christ who strengthens me. Abound abundance, overflow, superfluity ,exceeding…. Eph. 3:16-21 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord's holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. I have learned/I've Been Instructed like an initiation into ‘a mystery' (Eph. 3:8,9) 13 I can do all things through [f]Christ who strengthens me. “I am strong for all things in the ONE who constantly infuses strength in Me”~Wuest I find that the strength of Christ's explosive power infuses me to conquer every difficulty~ TPT  I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who [a]infuses inner strength into me; I am [b]self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency].~ AMPC Eph. 3:16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, Eph. 6:10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. II Tim. 2:1 You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 14 Nevertheless you have done well that you shared in my distress. 15 Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only. 16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. 18 Indeed I [g]have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God. Vs. 14. You have Done Well”=“You have done a beautiful thing” ( Greek)… you shared in my distress =”You made yourselves fellow partakers with my Tribulation”   14 Nevertheless you have done well that you shared in my distress. 15 Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only. 16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. 18 Indeed I [g]have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God.   So powerful…in that the Philippians took on Paul's Burden for ministry both in $$ & intercession  & a companionship of LOVE…more so than other churches…(vs. 15… no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only.) The Philippian church became fellow-partakers & co-workers spreading the Gospel. Vs. 15) Giving & receiving …the Philippians  & Paul Had a ‘Give & Take' relationship like credit/debit…He brought them salvation, Giftings…they would forever be indebted to Him in LOVE…so they co-labored with Him in the Gospel Vs.16) you sent aid once and again (Lk. 6:38,James 2:16) Ecc. 11:1,2 Cast your bread on the surface of the waters, [be diligently active, make thoughtful decisions], for you will [a]find it after many days. 2 Give a portion to seven, or even [divide it] to eight, for you do not know what misfortune may occur on the earth. He Giveth More Grace     His love has no limit, His grace has no measure, His power no boundary known unto men, For out of His infinite riches in Jesus, He giveth and giveth and giveth again.   When we have exhausted our store of endurance, When our strength has failed ere the day is half-done, When we reach the end of our hoarded resources, Our Father's full giving is only begun.   Vs. 17) I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. JN. 15:16 Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. VS.18) a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God EPH. 5:2And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour. 19 And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Supply  literally ‘I Am Full', meaning filled to the full….In other words God will give in the same measure to the Philippians that they gave to Paul II Cor. 9:8  And God is able to make all grace [every favor and earthly blessing] come in abundance to you, so that you may always [under all circumstances, regardless of the need] have complete sufficiency in everything [being completely self-sufficient in Him], and have an abundance for every good work and act of charity. Eph. 3:20 Now to Him who is able to do above and beyond all that we ask or think according to the power that works in us— GLORY = the element in which God supplies our needs Glory/goodness….Ps. 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. Ps. 27:13 I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Ps. 31:19 Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men! VERSES 21-23 CONCLUSION “Caesars Household” The Roman Soldiers converted thru Paul's Ministry

“4:8 MANDATES…” ~ Philippians 4:1-9  THEME Chapter 4: Shows that CHRIST IS Our Strength…Our Motivator & Energizer. Not only is he moving upon us to want the right things, but he makes it possible for us to then do them as well. He provides the dynamic that fulfills the desire. Chapter 4 provides  closing exhortations to Philippians Philippians 4:1-9 1 Therefore, my beloved and longed-for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, beloved. 2 I implore Euodia and I implore Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3 [a]And I urge you also, true companion, help these women who labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life. 4 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! 5 Let your [b]gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. 6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. Verses 1-3 Exhortation To UNITY VS.1 Therefore, my beloved and longed-for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, beloved. Therefore,  connects back to 3:20:21 ( no chpt. Breaks in the MSS.)…saying because , of our citizenship being from heaven & our anticipation of Christ's return here are final exhortations  that I have on my heart concerning you   Verses 1-3 Exhortation To UNITY VS.1 Therefore, my beloved and longed-for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, beloved. Beloved ,  and longed-for brethren (literally ‘divinely loved ones & longed for ones')  beloved mentioned twice+ the connection with longed for brethren  in this verse shows Paul's passionate love for this church,,, he had both Agape & Phileo for them Crown…A victors wreath /garland  placed upon the head of the victor in athletic contests…it was also used for military valor and used in festive celebrations of gladness. Here Paul metaphorically calls the Saints of Phillipi His Crown as he had won them over to the Gospel Standfast..stand firm, persevere, persist Phil. 1:27 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving togeth  I Cr. 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. er for the faith of the gospel; Eph. 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Hebrews 3:14 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end; Vs. 2 I implore Euodia and I implore Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord.Vs.33 [a]And I urge you also, true companion, help these women who labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life. Euodia (yoo-od-ee-ah) fragrance or prosperous journey …. Syntyche(soon-too-kay)  pleasant acquaintance ….(Odius & Soontouchy). These were well known women in this fellowship who had even helped found this church Urge this is a strong expression used by Paul ….meaning ‘I exhort, I beg , I plead…PLEASE' be reconciled to each other…notice Paul's plea is in LOVE not the demand of an Authoritarian, he could have invoked his ‘Apostolic Authority'…Instead he approaches them with the meekness & humility shown in Love for them Same mind …be in Harmony this issue addressed before 1:27-30 stand fast in one spirit…2:1-4 Place others needs above their own & be likeminded…personal examples Jesus 2:5-8,,,2:1930 Timothy & Epaphroditus Gal. 6:1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Verses 1-3 Exhortation To UNITY Vs. 2 I implore Euodia and I implore Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord.Vs.33 [a]And I urge you also, true companion, help these women who labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life. true companion(True yokefellow) a term used of oxen placed in a yoke  used in marriage, comradeship…'pull-together', literally..one who pulls together in a double harness…this word Paul uses shows Him expressing more of His Authority as an Apostle…like giving an order to be carried out by a faithful soldier…in this case not exactly sure who it was, yet possibly Epaphroditus…this person was to be an example for these women who did not know hoa to ‘pull together'. these women who labored with me these two women had worked together w/Paul before in the work of the Gospel yet now had issues with each other Phil. 2:2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. I Cr. 1:10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. Psalm 133:1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!   Verse 4: Exhortation To REJOICING: Vs.4) 4 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Here the theme of REJOICING is repeated again (3:1) , this time in view of even going through discouragements & trials….chairo..to be exceedingly joyful & glad, to be happy to thrive…used as a salutation….literally ‘Be Rejoicing ALWAYS'(shows a double emphasis in Grk) A repeated theme of this epistle…1:18,2:16-18,28,3:1,3 REJOICE in & Thru all circumstances (not FOR them) ISAIAH 61:10 I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.     Verse 4: Exhortation To REJOICING: Vs.4) 4 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Hab. 3:17-18 Though the fig tree does not bud     and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails     and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen     and no cattle in the stalls, 18 yet I will rejoice in the Lord,     I will be joyful in God my Savior. JAMES 1:2-3 Rejoice in trials I Pe. 4:13 13 But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. PSALMS Rejoicing Mentioned 54x….9:2,20:5,31:7,32:11,33:21,68:3,70:4,96:11,12,97:12,98:4 Proverbs 29:6 By transgression an evil man is ensnared, But the righteous sings and rejoices.   VERSE 5: EXHORTATION TO GENTLENESS/MODERATION 5 Let your [b]gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Moderation(Kjv)/gentleness …reasonable, forebearance,  mild, fair, equitable “your sweet reasonableness”..of a kind & gentle disposition ..showing consideration of others, not insisting on one's own way Phil. 2:15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Titus 3:2 To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men. Phil. 2:3-4 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.         VERSE :6-7 EXHORTATION TO Thanksgiving & Peace 6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. This is a very good translation of this verse from the Greek language…. “Stop perpetually worrying about even one thing, but in  everything, by prayer whose essence is that of worship & devotion, & by supplication which is a cry for your personal needs, let your requests with thanksgiving for the things asked for be made in the personal & intimate presence of ABBA who  always sees all & is by our side in all things then then His security, harmony, safety, prosperity—peace-tranquilty will surpass all power of comprehension,  & He shall  mount guard over your hearts & minds  like a sentinel in Christ Jesus.”~Wuest Mtt. 6:25,34 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life[a]?28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?' or ‘What shall we drink?' or ‘What shall we wear?' 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. I Peter 5:7 Casting (Throw it upon) all your care (Things that cause anxiety) upon him; for he careth for you. I Thess. 5:18 In all things give thanks James 5:13 Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms. ACTS 16:25 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. VERSE :6-7 EXHORTATION TO Thanksgiving & PEACE 6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. “Stop perpetually worrying about even one thing, but in  everything, by prayer whose essence is that of worship & devotion, & by supplication which is a cry for your personal needs, let your requests with thanksgiving for the things asked for be made in the personal & intimate presence of ABBA who  always sees all & is by our side in all things then His security, harmony, safety, prosperity—peace-tranquilty will surpass all power of comprehension,  & He shall  mount guard over your hearts & minds  like a sentinel in Christ Jesus.”~Wuest II Chron. 20:21 And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers unto the LORD, and that should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, Praise the LORD; for his mercy endureth for ever. Genesis 32:9-12 Jacob beseeches God to intervene on his behalf with Esau II Kings 19:14-19 Hezekiah beseeches God for deliverance from Assyria TWO GUYS in a FIXJ Psalm 37: 3-7  Trust in the Lord and do good;     dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. 4 Take delight in the Lord,     and he will give you the desires of your heart.5 Commit your way to the Lord;     trust in him and he will do this: 6 He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn,     your vindication like the noonday sun.7 Be still before the Lord     and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways,     when they carry out their wicked schemes.Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart     and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways submit to him,     and he will make your paths straight.[a] Jn. 14:27  Peace Give I to You… Jn. 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. Romans 5:1 Because we are justified we have Peace w/God Col. 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful “Come Rest” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t5cPqg6VzUY   VERSE : 8-9 EXHORTATION TO PEACE &VIRTUE 8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. Meditate/Think(Kjv) on these things (GREEK- LOGIZOMAI…Lo-geed-ze-mi…see ‘Logos'…LOGICAL) To account ,consider, to reckon—esp. by calculation, imputation, deliberate thought & reasoning. To weigh (weigh out) meditate upon. To impute, to deem  or judge. To purpose, to decide or determine, to suppose Ecc. 7:13 Consider the work of God….Ps. 1:2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. MEDITATE On These 6 Qualities…. 1.)WHATEVER IS TRUE ….meaning that which is TRUE in a WIDE sense..NOT limited to TRUTH (Only of God's Word)…anything that shows sincerity, genuine good PSALM 34:8 O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. PSALM 34:10 The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they that seek the LORD shall not want any good thing. 2.)WHATEVER IS NOBLE/HONEST…..Actually that which of Grave or serious consequence or nature…be a person of gravitas …. ITHESS. 5:2-6 2 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3 While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. 4 But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. 5 You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. 6 So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober. 3.) WHATEVER THINGS ARE JUST  That which is ‘right', without fault, that which is approved…IICor. 5:21He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.   4.) WHATEVER THINGS ARE PURE …not mixed unadulterated by anything Hebrews 7:26 For it was fitting for us to have such a high priest, holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners and exalted above the heavens; PSALM 19:7-11The law of the Lord is perfect,     refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy,     making wise the simple. 8 The precepts of the Lord are right,     giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant,     giving light to the eyes. 9 The fear of the Lord is pure,     enduring forever. The decrees of the Lord are firm,     and all of them are righteous. 10 They are more precious than gold,     than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey,     than honey from the honeycomb. 11 By them your servant is warned;     in keeping them there is great reward. 5.)WHATEVER THINGS ARE LOVELY  that which is both acceptable, & beautiful & pleasant to behold… II Peter 2:5   you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. Psalm 17:2 As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness. PSALM 27:4One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple. 6.) GOOD REPORT basically speaking GOOD words,,,so THINKING on those Good words Pro. 18:21  death &  Life are in the Power of the tongue Pro. 15:30 The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart: and a good report maketh the bones fat.  VIRTURE …moral goodness/excellence…. II Peter 2:1-5 2 Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, 3 as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, 4 by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the [c]corruption that is in the world through lust.   PRAISE …that which is to be lauded or commended Vs. 9) . 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. Received = as receiving teaching/instruction from a teacher Do = put these teachings received into practice habitually, make them part of your life James 1:18-27  18He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created. 19My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. 21Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. 22Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror 24and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it--he will be blessed in what he does.   I Cor. 11:1, Phil. 3:17,I Th. 6:1

“Pressing Towards The Prize~ Philippians 3:12-21.Theme Chpt. 3 “Christ Our Goal” Philippians 3:12-21 12 Not that I have already attained,[c] or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. 13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have [d]apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.15 Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you. 16 Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already [e]attained, let us walk by the same [f]rule, let us be of the same mind.17 Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern. 18 For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame—who set their mind on earthly things. 20 For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself. The Christian Life shown in A Metaphor of An Olympic Marathon Race Pursuing the Prize 3:12-13 A Good runner Never Looks Back 3:13 This Race requires Spiritual Stamina & Consistency 3:15-17 Some have dropped out of the Race 3:18-19 Knowing Our citizenship will Cause us to win the Prize 3:20-21 1.)Pursuing The PRIZE…3:12-13 “The measure of a persons desire is the Pursuit” Vs. 12)Not that I have already attained,[c] or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me “Grasping ever more firmly that purpose for which Christ grasps me”- JB .Phillips “PRESS ON”- the Greek connotation means ‘an urgent chasing after towards a FIXED Goal or Point' This is in the continuous present tense I am DOING this NOW, I am chasing after this NOW…I am PRESSING Towards  this NOW “That I May Lay Hold of” The idea here is Paul is not just satisfied with the pursuit…HE will NOT be satisfied until  he has laid hold of, apprehended, GRASPED ( taken a hold of) that PURPOSE Christ has intended for Him 3:3 Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? 2:8-10 1.)Pursuing The PRIZE…3:12-14 “The measure of a persons desire  is in  the Pursuit” Vs. 12)Not that I have already attained,[c] or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me “, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has LAID HOLD of Me”….speaking of His Damascus Road ENCOUNTER of Christ…yet MUCH More!!.....  (TWO Things) I Cor. 9:24 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. TWO Things………… a)Phil. 3:10 that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, b)Eph. 3:1-13 For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles—2 Surely you have heard about the administration of God's grace that was given to me for you, 3 that is, the mystery made known to me by revelation, as I have already written briefly. 4 In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, 5 which was not made known to people in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God's holy apostles and prophets. 6 This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.7 I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God's grace given me through the working of his power. 8 Although I am less than the least of all the Lord's people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the boundless riches of Christ, 9 and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. 10 His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, 11 according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. 12 In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. 13 I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory. MYSTERY (Mysterion- Moo-stay-dion..Grk.)derived from a word meaning to ‘shut the mouth'…a secret counsel, purpose, or understanding…of God…something hidden from men…only coming from divine revelation or illumination from God's Spirit…requires an initiation understand my insight …(synesis—soon-es-is) literally a running or flowing together of Knowledge & understanding…a quickness of apprehension which precedes ACTION! “To Have an APOSTOLIC CALLING, Is To Have An APOSTOLIC ENCOUNTER” 1.)Pursuing The PRIZE…3:12-14 “The measure of a persons desire is in the Pursuit” Vs.13)Brethren, I do not count myself to have [d]apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, Count ( logizomai )is to reckon, account, suppose , consider after deliberate  & careful Thought …refers  back to vs. 12…Paul realizes he has NOT attained perfection yet (some were haughty at Philippi & thought they did!)…sinless perfection!? …vs. 2 was the past fact that had happened with Paul…Here is referring to PRESENT Process of his pursuit Phil. 3:8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, LUKE 14:25-33 Now great multitudes went with Him. And He turned and said to them, 26 “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple. 27 And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. 28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it— 29 lest, after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, 30 saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish'? 31 Or what king, going to make war against another king, does not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him who comes against him with twenty thousand? 32 Or else, while the other is still a great way off, he sends a delegation and asks conditions of peace. 33 So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple. Apprehended ….But I keep going on, grasping ever more firmly that purpose for which Christ grasped me.(JB. Phillips)…like verse 12 Job 17:9 Yet the righteous will hold to his way, And he who has clean hands will be stronger and stronger. Proverbs 4:18 But the path of the just is like the shining [a]sun, That shines ever brighter unto the perfect day. Psalm 63:1 O God, You are my God; Early will I seek You; My soul thirsts for You; My flesh longs for You In a dry and thirsty land Where there is no water. Psalm 84:2 My soul longs, yes, even faints For the courts of the Lord; My heart and my flesh cry out for the living God. I Tim. 6:12 Fight the good fight of faith Lay hold of eternal life II Peter 1:5 giving all diligence 2.) A Good Runner Never Looks Back..Vs. 13,14 Vs.13)Brethren, I do not count myself to have [d]apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, but one thing I do What is your ONE Thing!?...sums up His Christian conduct & purpose in the NOW…the greek implies LIMITING & ISOLATING oneself to a fanatical Focus…NOW he has gone from contemplation(‘Count' vs 13) to ALL OUT ACTION Mode! forgetting those things which are behind Forgetting  grk….completely forgetting, to neglect, EMPHATICALLY forget & neglect (obliterate the memory!!)…Here Paul in His metaphor about a runner in a race is referring to that Runner NOT even looking back AT ALL or paying a bit of attention to runners behind him as he races toward the goal….VERY good picture of our Christian RACE…just like a racer impedes his progress with this distraction so likewise we will be hindered in our progress for the prize IF we are looking at our past sin ,shame & failures…. Luke 9:62  But Jesus said to him, “No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.”….Genesis 19:26 Hebrews 12:1-3 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the [a]author and [b]finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls. reaching forward… (EPEKTEINO) A stretching forward…a reaching forward in an INTENSE athletic motion (hence comparison to a marathon race) 14 ) I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. I press toward the goal (kjv=Mark) only used here in NT LITERALLY  “ I Pursue down upon the target”……concepts of a watchman (Phil. 2:4)& shooting target shown here For the Prize…A prize (brabeion-grk. Derived from the word for an umpire who gives the prize) bestowed or deposited  in connection with the games…it could be monetary… here used as a metaphor for spiritual  incorruption & eternal life of the upward call  literally “of The upward calling” is A CALL from Heaven TO HEAVEN ( (NOT our earthly life's calling here)…our eternal reward   2.) A Good Runner Never Looks Back..Vs. 13,14 14 ) I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Hebrews 3:1,2 Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession, Christ Jesus,2 who was faithful to Him who appointed Him, as Moses also was faithful in all His house. “The prize is bound up with the calling ; promised when the call is issued, & given when the call is fulfilled”~M.R. Vincent I Cor. 9:24 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. “This goal continually moves forward as we press on ,but never out of sight”~A.T. Robertson Luke 16:16 “The law and the prophets were until John. Since that time the kingdom of God has been preached, and everyone is pressing into it. II Tim. 4:7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Hebrews 6:1..I Cor. 4:16-18…II Peter 1:3   3.)This Race Requires Spiritual Stamina & Consistency… 3:15-17 15-17Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you. 16 Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already [e]attained, let us walk by the same [f]rule, let us be of the same mind.17 Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern This IS a Marathon Race  …Cross Country MemoriesJ “Mature/Perfect”  Grk. =Telios complete, perfect, mature, of full age finished, ‘wanting nothing'…Col.1:28, Col. 4:12,II Tim. 3:16-17,Hebrews 5:13 Contradiction, Sarcasm !?(vs. 12 Not that I have already attained,[c] or am already perfected) Vs. 12 Paul was speaking of a TOTAL FINISHED PERFECTION ( received in Heaven)…here in vs. 15 he speaks relatively…where though some may have reached maturity (Himself included)there is STILL Growth & Development to be obtained…this speaks of well rounded Christian Character NOT Christian Infancy “Have This Mind” in other words KEEP thinking like the above phrase I Cor. 2:6 6 However, we speak wisdom among those who are mature, yet not the wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing.   3.)This Race Requires Spiritual Stamina & Consistency… 3:15-17 15-17Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you. 16 Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already [e]attained, let us walk by the same [f]rule, let us be of the same mind.17 Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern IF and if in anything you think otherwise…Epaphroditus had made Paul aware of some in the church who were teaching sinless perfection was needed…he said God would take care of the issue Psalm 139:23-24 Search Me & Try me… Jn. 7:17 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. “otherwise” a negative use of the word…as some in Philippi thought they had ‘arrived' spiritually, with no further growth needed!? Vs. 16) Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already [e]attained, let us walk by the same [f]rule, let us be of the same mind….meaning ‘Keep on Keepin' on…keep doing the same things consistently that MATURE saints do LITERAL….to walk in a straight row….walk  prosperously,,,to turn out well, to direct ones life..TO LIVE Vs. 17) 17 Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern Together or jointly as the church Be Imitators of (me) Paul as he follows Christ (Not Christ here)…of how I walk the Christian Life…I Cr.4:16, 11:1…Hebrews13:7 “Note” = Mark = fix your attention on intently.. Ps. 37:7 Mark the blameless man, and observe the upright; For the future of that man is peace. JAMES 1:4-5 4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be [a]perfect and complete, lacking nothing. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 4.) Some have dropped out of the Race Vs. 3:18,19 18-19 )For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame—who set their mind on earthly things. Professed Christian Greeks, possibly had walked with the Philippian church in times past but fell into Epicurean tendencies…Epicureanism taught satisfying physical desires was the highest aim of man (sex, food drink)…GAL. 5:13 13 For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. Romans 16:18 18 For those who are such do not serve our Lord [a]Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple. They thought Lightly of God's Grace Romans 6:15 18 For those who are such do not serve our Lord [a]Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple. Jude 1:4 4 For certain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for this condemnation, ungodly men, who turn the grace of our God into lewdness and deny the only Lord [a]God and our Lord Jesus Christ.(see vs. 12,13) I Jn. 2:16 For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.   5.) Knowing Our Citizenship will cause us to Win the Race(Prize) 3:20,21 20 For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself. Citizenship is In Heaven …commonwealth…literally ‘The commonwealth of which the Saints are citizens is FIXED in the Heavens' Eagerly wait……An Intense Yearning & eager anticipation…totally FIXED on what one is waiting for , with a total ABOUT face from inferior things(see running for the prize) Hebrews 9:28 so also Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many; and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who eagerly await Him. so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him   Vs. 21)Transform/change …to fashion a new,Refashion.. Matthew 17:2 He was transfigured before them…a change in the body from what's on the inside to an outward expression of that…the change that will take place at the Rapture or 2nd Resurrection Col. 1:22 22 But now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation— WORKING = energeia …energy…power in operation I Jn. 3:2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. Romans 8:23 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. I Cor. 15:42-48  So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; 43 it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; 44 it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. 45 So it is written: “The first man Adam became a living being”[a]; the last Adam, a life-giving spirit. 46 The spiritual did not come first, but the natural, and after that the spiritual. 47 The first man was of the dust of the earth; the second man is of heaven. 48 As was the earthly man, so are those who are of the earth; and as is the heavenly man, so also a   CONCLUSION: This RACE that our Christian Lives is compared to requires Patience & Persistence On Being Persistent: Obstinately refusing to give up or Let Go To Be Insistently Repetitive To Commit to being Indefinitely Continuous 07/25/22  

“Passionate Living” Philippians 3:8-12 –08/27/21 Philippians 3: CHRIST OUR GOAL 8 Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith; 10 that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, 11 if, by any means, I may attain[a] to the resurrection from the dead. 12 Not that I have already attained,[b] or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me 8)Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ  “Yet indeed” or “Yea Doubtless” (Kjv) In the construction of the Greek language Paul is making a passionate statement, a plea as it were to the Philippian Church about the force & passion with which he was pursuing Christ as an example for them to follow…it reads “yea, therefore, at least, EVEN” Paul wanted to Leave no doubt at as to His Pursuit in life. “Count” The same verb (counted) as used in vs. 7 …here it is in the present tense showing continuous action in present time. Paul had come to the steadfast CONVICTION that any supposed gain in the world he might attain was but total loss if He failed to GAIN CHRIST “loss”-- Paul continually held a tenacious& habitual focus & Mind-set against anything that might come between Him & the goal of Christ, so he counts EVERYTHING  personally to himself  as a Loss, except knowing Christ Acts 20:24 But I count my life of no value to myself, so that I may finish my course[a] and the ministry I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of God's grace. Romans 8:18 18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is going to be revealed to us. “excellence,excellency”   of  a Higher, supreme , surpassing degree       8)Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, …speaks of the relationship that Paul developed with Jesus thru intimate communion & companionship with Him, He came to Know Jesus Heart & will; through  time spent in His (Jesus) presence I Cr. 2:2 2 For I didn't think it was a good idea to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. 1:17 I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father,[a] would give you a spirit[b] of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him. II Peter 1:3 His[a] divine power has given us everything required for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us by[b] His own glory and goodness. I Jn. 5:20 20 And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding so that we may know the true One.[a] We are in the true One—that is, in His Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. 16:26 What shall it profit a man 13:44 Parable of treasure hidden in a field   for whom I have suffered the loss of all things  this speaks of ALL Paul gave up  at his Damascus conversion. Paul was brought up in what we would say was a ‘closed community'—TARSUS because he & his family were wealthy & only the wealthy could live there. Paul left a life of wealth & status to become the Gentile/Missionary Apostle who made tents to get by. This was NOT all , as his parents basically  disowned their son, because he left Jewry …He had been supported by his folks  studying under Gamaliel at the U. of TARSUS, as an up & coming Priest in the Jewish Synagogue. that I may gain Christ   Not Paul's salvation, BUT appropriating in His Life the graces & nature of Christ into his whole being…GAIN= (Kedaino) an acquisition made from shunning evil 9) and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith; “Be found” more like ..'to turn out actually to be'( like grk. Expression here Gal. 2:17 we ourselves are found to be sinners). The idea here is that of a REVELATION of Character ,,that is, Paul LONGS to demonstrate in His Life that He is IN Christ…He wants others to observe this in his nature not having my own righteousness, ..The idea is not having a righteousness  ANY righteousness that could be called MY own…Paul wanted to completely divorce himself of any thought or effort that he was ‘A LAW Keeper' by his own efforts. He desired for men to see the Righteousness of a Life Hidden in Christ produced by Holy Spirit. 9) and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith;   Romans 10:2-6 2 I can testify about them that they have zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. 3 Because they disregarded the righteousness from God and attempted to establish their own righteousness, they have not submitted themselves to God's righteousness. 4 For Christ is the end[a] of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. 5 For Moses writes about the righteousness that is from the law: The one who does these things will live by them.[b]6 But the righteousness that comes from faith speaks like this: Do not say in your heart, “Who will go up to heaven?”[c] that is, to bring Christ down Romans 3:28 28 For we conclude that a man is justified by faith apart from the works of the law. Romans 9:30 30 What should we say then? Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have obtained righteousness—namely the righteousness that comes from faith. Romans 4:1-16 Titus 3:5 He saved us— not by works of righteousness that we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit. 8:3,10:4 faith in Christ, that Righteousness that is authored in Christ, which Paul now nourishes & maintains . This Faith is furnished to All believers & appropriates the Blessings which flow from Grace. I Cor. 1:30 20 And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding so that we may know the true One.[a] We are in the true One—that is, in His Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. II Cor. 5:17 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away, and look, new things[a] have come. Vs. 10,11) that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, 11 if, by any means, I may attain[a] to the resurrection from the dead. “that I may know Him”  ..that  is to come to know by experience, an experiential knowing, or knowledge….Paul wants to come to a place of knowing Jesus in the FULNESS of EXPERIENCE that only comes by an intimate relationship With Him ..TO FULLY KNOW Him!    I Jn. 3:2 Dear friends, we are God's children now, and what we will be has not yet been revealed. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him because we will see Him as He is.   Vs. 10,11) that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, 11 if, by any means, I may attain[a] to the resurrection from the dead. “the power of His resurrection,” Paul wants to experience the SAME Power which Raised Christ from the dead surging through His whole being, overcoming all sin in his life & showing forth the very nature of Christ for all to see…POWER= DYNAMIS… power, ability, physical or moral, as residing in a person or thing;..power in action, force, a strength, violence, virtue, mighty power, miracle working power. In this context the meaning is a POWER that overcomes resistance. Romans 1:16 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel [a]of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. Romans 6:4 4 Therefore we were buried with Him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too may walk in a new way[a] of life. II Cr. 4:10 10 We always carry the death of Jesus in our body, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. I Peter 1:3 3 Praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. According to His great mercy, He has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead 1:18-20 18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength 20 he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 3:20-21 20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. 3:20-21 20 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.“fellowship of His sufferings,” = a joint participation…these refer to the sufferings of Christ for righteousness sake while here on earth….II Cor. 11:22-33 Paul's ‘resume of suffering' 1:24 24 I now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body, which is the church, I Pe. 4:1-2 Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. 2 As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. “being conformed to His death,” LITERALLY “ To Bring to the same form with some other person”…we already saw this Grk word Before in Phil. 2:5-8  in the great KENOSIS(an emptying out)passage…Phil 2:6(being in the form of God)= Form(morphe)…here 3:10 ‘made conformable, being conformed' (symmorphizo)…morfe/morphizo are of same root Vs. 10,11) that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, 11 if, by any means, I may attain[a] to the resurrection from the dead. When These  Four Essentials are evident In Our Lives then we will CONSTANTLY be Made CONFORMABLE To Christ's Death : To show evidence by the very life we live To BE IN CHRIST By Coming To KNOW HIM Better All the time, a consistent deepening of relationship with HIM By Experiencing the same Dynamis that raised Christ from the dead surging through our being By Becoming Joint-Participants in Christ's Sufferings for Righteousness sake   **BOTTOM  LINEJ!! Paul's desire was that he might come to KNOW His Lord Jesus so intimately & with such Resurrection DUNAMIS operating  through His Being, along with a joint-participation  in Christ's sufferings that he would become both as to his inner heart  life & & as to His outward expression of just the same, like Jesus in respect to Christ's death , not just physically, but as we already showed in Phil. 2:7a KENOSIS..a death to self & denial of all things selfish …for the Blessing of others…THIS is what Paul strove for!!Paul was laying his life down in conformity& submission to the spirit & temperament of Christ's life, in all manner of lowliness  & meekness…both in Life & eventually in physical death   Vs. 10,11) that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, 11 if, by any means, I may attain[a] to the resurrection from the dead.  “If  By Any Means”  This is not an expression of doubt but rather AUTHENTIC humility…Paul shows a modest yet assured Hope. “May/might  attain” =Greek language means “to arrive at a GOAL” “resurrection” exanastasis….This is the only place in the NT where this word is used…Literally from ‘OUT OF' …translation “Out Resurrection from(among) the dead”. Paul may be referring to the future resurrection of the physical body of the saint (I Cr. 15,Jn. 5:29,Lk. 20:35).However, This  more likely refers to a spiritual Resurrection         10,11)that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, 11 if, by any means, I may attain[a] to the resurrection from the dead.   2:4-8  But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, A resurrection…out from a state of sin where one is dead in trespasses, to a LIFE divinely Empowered motivating our every action Also refers to the Rapture   12 Not that I have already attained or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. “ Not that I have already attained” The conclusion, here is Paul has experienced to a measure a ‘Conformity To Christ's Death” (see points 1-4 above), yet he has yet to Appropriate= I may lay hold of  these to Their FULLEST MEASURE in His life….He is always looking to increase in these attributes…refers back to vs. 10 (To KNOW Him)   Am already perfected/either were already perfect…Perfect (teleioō) not perfect in the literal sense(sinless), But complete, meaning ‘Spiritually Mature' Paul is stating that he is STILL seeking Spiritual Growth & Maturity, He has not stopped or become stagnant or indifferent spiritually ‘But I press on/follow after' (dee-oko)  TO PURSUE…Paul has in mind. the metaphor of a Greek runner running in a race. He is pressing on to a FIXED Goal, keeping up the chase as it were with much Passion Rendering…Not that I have already (LAMBANO)or am already perfected but I press on that I may but I press on that I may lay hold(apprehend) of  (KATALAMBANO) that for which Christ Jesus has laid hold of (Apprehended) (KATALAMBANOED) Me Forceful, passionate language…an INTENSE pursuit Lambano= accept, take, receive, obtain Katalambano = more forceful, to seize to “RUN DOWN”…see football highlight: Dk Metcalf runs down Budda BakerJ 12 Not that I have already attained or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Good translation” Grasping ever more firmly that purpose for which Christ grasps me” –JB. Phillips   1:16 To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood:--- This is what Paul was Apprehended/laid hold of FOR & In turn he wants to Apprehend Christ ( verses Phil. 3:10-11—ABSOLUTE CHRISTLIKENESS) I Tim. 6:12 Fight the good fight for the faith; take hold of eternal life that you were called to and have made a good confession about in the presence of many witnesses. II Peter 1:5 5 For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with goodness, goodness with knowledge, 63:1 God, You are my God; I eagerly seek You. I thirst for You; my body faints for You in a land that is dry, desolate, and without water. 84:2 my heart & flesh cry out for God, Ps. 42:1 as the deer panteth after water so my soul longs for thee Proverbs 4:18 The path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, shining brighter and brighter until midday. HEART REFLECTIONS: THOUGHT: Could it be that much of the church today over the last 50 years has been so busy showing the world how much we can do for Christ and lost sight of how the N.T. Church of Paul's day was just content to demonstrate to the world how much He could do through them List out all your positive attributes & gifts today…then get alone with ABBA & examine your heart to see if you are trusting Your Gifts or HIS Power As a Christian today, you have Christ Living in your heart, Have you taken the next step to really GAIN CHRIST fully? THINK: Knowing ABOUT Christ has Value, But Knowing HIM brings Vitality As MINISTERS…..we want /need 3 Things POWER = The Power of the Resurrection that eradicates all worry & despair Compassion =will come through sharing HIS sufferings (I Cr. 13:4) Purity = through Conformity to His Death…to accept the judgment & refuse to let ‘dead things' live any longer in our lives  

Baggage… Philippians 3:1-7 (NKJV) 3 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. For me to write the same things to you is not tedious, but for you it is safe. 2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the mutilation! 3 For we are the circumcision, who worship [a]God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh, 4 though I also might have confidence in the flesh. If anyone else thinks he may have confidence in the flesh, I more so: 5 circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; concerning the law, a Pharisee; 6 concerning zeal, persecuting the church; concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. 7 But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ Vs1) Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. For me to write the same things to you is not tedious, but for you it is safe. VS.1) Finally…..not as to meaning an ending of a thing or this letter but rather & literally…..”As For The Rest “…meaning something left over to discuss or point out..Paul switches emphasis from inner dissension to an attack from outside the Fellowship, namely Judaizers, who sought to bring them back under the Law in order to be saved. So He begins by pointing out a ‘Preventative Measure' (Weapon) to this problem.. Rejoice…TO Rejoice, TO BE Glad,…often used in greetings & farewells(To Salute another)…TO Rejoice Exceedingly, TO Be Well, TO Thrive, TO Exude Heart-Felt Joy, To Be Cheerful, TO Be calmly Happy, TO Be Glad…OT=To “Spring About”, BE Joyful, Put joy on as a garment, gird on, To exhult, to sing, cry aloud, to laugh, to play, to enjoy, to shine, be glad, Boast…(To MAKE…), be well pleased 26:11 And thou shalt rejoice in every good thing which the LORD thy God hath given unto thee I Chron. 16:10 Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD. II Chron. 20:27 for the LORD had made them to rejoice over their enemies. 5:11 But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee. 9:2 I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High. Psalm 32:11 Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart 68:4 Sing unto God, sing praises to his name: extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name JAH, and rejoice before him. 89:16 In thy name shall they rejoice all the day: and in thy righteousness shall they be exalted. 118:24 This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. 119:62 I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil. 29:19 The meek also shall increase their joy in the LORD, and the poor among men shall rejoice in the Holy One of Israel. 61:10 I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels. 3:17,18 Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls: Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation. 3:17 The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing. 6:22,23 Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake. Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets. 4:36 both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together. 4:4 4 Rejoice in the Lord always [delight, take pleasure in Him]; again I will say, rejoice!(AMP) Romans 5:1-5Therefore, having been justified by faith, [a]we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces [b]perseverance; 4 and perseverance, [c]character; and character, hope. 5 Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.   Romans 12:15 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Romans 15:10 And again he saith, Rejoice, ye Gentiles, with his people. I Cor. 12:26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. I Th. 5:16 Rejoice Evermore I Peter 1:8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: IPeter4:13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. 19:7 Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.   3 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. For me to write the same things to you is not tedious, but for you it is safe.       “SAFE”  Safeguard, precaution for safety, protects you…means literally certain, ‘a certainty' Solution to the Judaizers…'To Go On Constantly Rejoicing In the Lord ‘(Grk) 2-3) Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the mutilation! 3 For we are the circumcision, who worship [a]God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh, “BEWARE” Be constantly observing  ( Be ON Alert) with a view to avoiding “Dogs” A Term of Reproach among both Jews & Greeks…those of a reckless & shameless demeanor ..Paul called them evil workers…this term not only refers to evil actions & character BUT Specifically WORKING AGAINST THE GOSPEL INTENTIONALLY…A Picture of Veral DOGS feeding on Garbage off the street & then in this metaphor…FEEDING the garbage(Carnal ordinances) to others=The Problem 2-3) Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the mutilation! 3 For we are the circumcision, who worship [a]God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh, “Mutilation/Concision(kjv)”…or ‘beware of those that mutilate the flesh' one trs. Says ‘beware of false circumcisers'…compared by Paul to OT. Pagan mutilations & cuttings of the flesh used in religious exercises(Zech. 13:4-6)…a grk. Play on words used by Paul …He calls those NOT of the true circumcision as ‘Merely just Mutilated' The Judaizers  MUTILATED the message of the Gospel by adding LAW to Grace& recruiting converts to their movement “worship [a]God in the Spirit,”.more literally “worship by the Spirit of God”…WORSHIP is ‘Feeding' us we FEED on God thru WORSHIP…Jn. 4:24…Matthew 4:4…Jn. 4:34,Jn. 6:54-66 “Rejoice” here this refers to glorying & exhulting—Paul was putting on display his Testimony of Living at a superior spiritual level “confidence” Coming to a settled position or conviction about a matter(Phil. 1:25)This word implies that Paul did not come to his convictions lightly The Judaizers had come to a settled conviction in the need for the OT law & rites to be added back in to salvation(The flesh)   True Spirituality  is destroyed by WORKS produced in ones flesh Luke 10:42 41 And [a]Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. 42 But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.”……..   Gal. 6:12-14 12 As many as desire to make a good showing in the flesh, these would compel you to be circumcised, only that they may not suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. 13 For not even those who are circumcised keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may boast in your flesh. 14 But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by [a]whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. Col 2:11 In Him you were also circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body [a]of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, Romans 2:29 but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; whose [a]praise is not from men but from God. Romans 7:6 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.     Vs. 4) 4 though I also might have confidence in the flesh. If anyone else thinks he may have confidence in the flesh, I more so: The Judaizers had confidence in the flesh…they trusted human attainments by the works they performed. They had went away from the supernatural system of Salvation in God to a natural system in order  to be saved by works of man for God. Paul pointed to His own attainments & merits saying he had more in the NATURAL he could boast in than any Judaizer…YET He CAST OFF all his dependence on any of his achievements to appropriate the salvation which is ONLY IN CHRIST JESUS. Paul draws on this exhortation to warn the Philippians against the seductive  snare of the Judaizers. “Thinks/Thinketh” refers  to one judging himself NOT judging others       PAUL'S  PERSONAL  RESUME: 5& 6) circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; concerning the law, a Pharisee; 6 concerning zeal, persecuting the church; concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. , circumcised the eighth day Literally, “8 Days old in Circumcision”…Paul was a pure- blooded Jew OF = ‘Out Of' …this word denotes the origin, class or country of a person Stock = Origin …Paul belonged to the well-favored tribe of Benjamin who was true to David , formed with the tribe of Judah  as the restored nation of former captives from Babylon “Hebrew of the Hebrews” fully Hebrew by both sides of his parents who retained their Hebrew language & customs , not a Hellenized Jew who read OT in GRK. Language “Zeal” ..literally meaning a ‘strict Jew' a fanatical Jew of the party called a Zealot persecuting the church; concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. Paul's fanatical zeal was at such a fevered veneration His persecution of the Jews made him perfect in the eyes of me II Cor. 11:22 22 Are they Hebrews? So am Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? So am I. Acts 23:6 6 But when Paul perceived that one part were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, “Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee; concerning the hope and resurrection of the dead I am being judged!” VS.7) But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ “What” the Greek language conveys a qualitative aspect , referring to something considered a gain or loss “Things” refer to vs. 5& 6 “Gain” is PLURAL in Grk…GAINS “Those/These” Very emphatic language in Greek ..”These Things” “Counted” meaning to consider, deem, think, take account of… “Loss” Greek means a singular loss …he counted all individual ‘Things'(Gain) as ONE thing he gave up BEAUTIFUL Greek language construction here …this verse speaks of a process COMPLETED in the Past which is HAVING Present Results…After a mature consideration (counting the cost) Paul came to a SETTLED Conviction with regard to THIS ISSUE   HIGHLIGHTED—Loss of Baggage! Philippians 3:7 7 But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ Hebrews 12:1 So then, with endurance, let's also run the race that is laid out in front of us, since we have such a great cloud of witnesses surrounding us. Let's throw off any *extra baggage, get rid of the sin that trips us up, Weights, Baggage…LOSS Paul being a ‘Pharisee of The Pharisees' was a ‘heavyweight' as it were in the Jewish community & Religious Hierarchy (circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; concerning the law, a Pharisee; 6 concerning zeal, persecuting the church; concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless…Phil 3:5-6) He Gave IT all up (His achievements)…Vs. 7 But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ He considered these as ‘LOSS' …He cast them ALL OFF These accomplishments/achievements…lineage ,  he  considered  Excessive *Weight in the Journey he was pursuing In Hebrews The KJV uses the phrase lay aside every weight…. WEIGHT… WEIGHT…ong'-kos..Og-Kos .. denotes "a bulk or mass;" hence, metaphorically, "an encumbrance, weight," Hbr 12:1….whatever is prominent, protuberance, bulk, mass), hence a burden, weight, encumbrance:….hinderance,obstruction,obstacle,IMPEDIMENT,Restraint (a holding back),obligation,handicap,inconvenience,burdenmillstone,pressure,strain,stress,load,nuisance,heaviness,trappings, belongings, effects Long Held IDEAS or views of past experiences regarded as burdens or impediments…..Emotional Baggage Emotional Baggage encumbers progress, freedom, adaptability ,development in Life              

Philippians 2:19-30 New King James Version Timothy Commended 19 But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, that I also may be encouraged when I know your [a]state. 20 For I have no one like-minded, who will sincerely care for your state. 21 For all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus. 22 But you know his proven character, that as a son with his father he served with me in the gospel. 23 Therefore I hope to send him at once, as soon as I see how it goes with me. 24 But I trust in the Lord that I myself shall also come shortly. 25 Yet I considered it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, but your messenger and the one who ministered to my need; 26 since he was longing for you all, and was distressed because you had heard that he was sick. 27 For indeed he was sick almost unto death; but God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. 28 Therefore I sent him the more eagerly, that when you see him again you may rejoice, and I may be less sorrowful. 29 Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such men in esteem; 30 because for the work of Christ he came close to death, [b]not regarding his life, to supply what was lacking in your service toward me. A Mundane Travel Itinerary of 3 Ministers used by the Holy Spirit to further Illustrate TRUTH Mark 10:45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” In this short passage, Paul, Timothy, & Epaphroditus  illustrate Men who had a servants Heart, though both different in personality Cultivating A Servants Heart Centered on Jesus Christ Vs. 19,24 Paul submitted all His ministry to the Lord Vs. 21,22 Timothy also, served the Lord , Not seeking His own interests…But helped Paul ‘In the Furtherance of the Gospel' (Phil. 1:12) Vs.25   Epaphroditus was also an example of servant leadership in pushing through sickness to  minister to Paul's need   MINISTERED  (leitourgos) (Liter-goss) this word is translated both minister & service & we get our English word LITRGY from this word, which not only has to do with service but also.. adoration & veneration (See Romans 12:1)…To the Greeks in the secular sense it meant  sacred service to ones community THREE Distinguishing attitudes of Servants Focused on Christ: They are willing to Go anywhere They are willing to Serve anyone ( see Philip Acts 8:5-8, 26-40) They are willing to sacrifice Anything   Acts 20:24 But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my [b]race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of A Servants Heart Puts Others Ahead of Himself for the Sake of Christ Vs. 2:22 that as a son with his father he served with me in the gospel (Timothy)…Paul was willing to send His  favorite son though he himself was in need Vs.30 (Of Epaphroditus)…. because for the work of Christ he came close to death, [b]not regarding his life, to supply what was lacking in your service toward me…..The Philippian church had sent their Minister to Paul Epaphroditus selflessly served Paul …. Paul calls  Epaphroditus “ one who ministered to my need” , This man ministered to Paul's wants/ needs to the point of endangering his own life by coming to Paul's aid on behalf of the Philipi church… (vs. 30) not regarding his life….The Greek language coveys a reckless abandonment ., a gambling term meaning to throw all caution to the wind…So Epap. Showed NO concern for himself out of Love for Paul ( John15:13 Greater love has no man than this, than to lay down His life for his friends) Of Timothy…VS. 2O.. For I have no one like-minded, who will sincerely care for your state. 21 For all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus….Vs. 22) But you know his proven character          

“God At Work(In YOU!)” ~ Philippians 2:12-18 12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings:15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;16 Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.17 Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.18 For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.(KJV) Vs.12  Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. 12 “WHEREFORE” is ‘there-for' our review ..going back to 1:27 Paul is saying to the Phil. In exhortation because they should be living as HEAVENLY CITIZENS in harmony & unity w/ one another their lives should have evidence of these traits…(Vs. 2:1-4)…. a) To THINK the same thing, b) HAVE the same Love …c) To be in HEART UNITY or agreement d) carry oneself in a ‘low running mind'(humility) ..e) To see to it that your Brethren EXCELL/SURPASS You…last week we spoke of HAVING THE MIND OF CHRIST( VS2:6-8) which led to A Kenosis experience…death & Resurrection to walk as NEW CREATIONS IN CHRIST( II Cr. 5:17) NOW Paul further exhorts the Philippians TO make the above mentioned TRAITS a Permanent FACT in their lives, a permanent part of WHO THEY ARE as Saints “MY BELOVED”  “My Beloved Ones”(GRK.) plural word in grk.  ag-ap-ay-tos' from agapayo= ‘To LOVE'(AGAPE)…This is the LOVE, (Agape) of God produced in our hearts by the Holy Spirit that IMPELS us to lay our lives down for each other OBEYED…NOT meaning a grind it out, work it out kind of obedience Done in Fear of GOD as a Taskmaster…This is a Basic summary of a practical APPLICATION of all he is saying…he is Not meaning a slavish observance of rules..BUT rather an intelligent application of Principle…when OBEY (Obedience) is applied this way it is the KEY to LIBERTY in the Christian walk with God (examples of Music & Health)…”To Obey” is to put into practice “The Mind of Christ” received & operated By FAITH , NOT a  WORK it Out Mentality Not as In My Presence ..The sense here is they do not need Paul to hold their hand (HE is not there)…BECAUSE they have access to the MIND of CHRIST they can do what is needed “work out your own salvation” NOT working for your personal salvation in your own effort & strength (see Mormons) …a) Paul was writing to SAINTS not unsaved b) SALVATION IS always a work of God, not men….c) also not an inward working out of one's  salvation … “work out”  katergazomai (koter..gad..zi..mi) = ‘to carry out to the goal, to carry out to its ultimate conclusion' ….like saying the 5th grader worked out the long division problem to its CONCLUSION. Here Paul is exhorting the Phil (US) to carry our salvation out to ITS ULTIMATE CONCLUSION= CHRISTLIKENESS. The SALVATION Highlighted here is SANCTIFICATION= Being SET ASIDE  from sin & toward God's purpose for our lives which will please ABBA Example of my granddaughter being taught by me how to drive We must learn to ‘Work Out' the problems & trials of life we go through by applying FAITH by doing so ‘GOD IS WORKING IN US' We are NOT ROBOTS…..we have our own WILL to APPLY/Not Apply the Mind of Christ in a matter   “with fear and trembling…” NOT Terror but a wholesome carefulness & caution of  being careful of NOT doing the wrong things. This Fear is a SELF-DISTRUST, a tenderness of one's conscience ; a vigilance against temptation, the opposite of pride & arrogance…It is being in an attitude of taking heed lest we fall, of watching for the deceitfulness of our hearts…it is taking care & caution to NOT offend God….THIS is Human RESPONSIBILITY in its highest form (Vincent) 111:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge ISAIAH 66:1,2 Heaven is My throne, and earth is My footstool. What house could you possibly build for Me? And what place could be My home? 2 My hand made all these things, and so they all came into being. This is the Lord's declaration. I will look favorably on this kind of person: one who is humble, submissive[a] in spirit, and trembles at My word. II Peter 1:3-10  3 His[a] divine power has given us everything required for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us by[b] His own glory and goodness. 4 By these He has given us very great and precious promises, so that through them you may share in the divine nature, escaping the corruption that is in the world because of evil desires. 5 For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with goodness, goodness with knowledge, 6 knowledge with self-control, self-control with endurance, endurance with godliness, 7 godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they will keep you from being useless or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 The person who lacks these things is blind and shortsighted and has forgotten the cleansing from his past sins. 10 Therefore, brothers, make every effort to confirm your calling and election, because if you do these things you will never stumble. (MAKE your Calling & Election Sure kjv) Vs. 13 13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure “Worketh” ..'energeo' meaning to energize, work effectively…our words ‘energy' & ‘energize' come from this grk. Word “to will” ‘thelo' means to wish, to desire, to purpose….specifically speaks to ones emotions rather than reason…The DESIRE to do ABBAS GOOD PLEASURE is produced by DIVINE ENERGY cultivated in  & imparted to the believers Heart by the Holy Spirit, the HS. energizes us..NOT just for willingness but in the DOING as well..We are GIVEN Power to DO! “to do” grk. Implies an habitual ACTION We could say it like this……………. HUMAN RESPONSIBILITY (Vs. 12) + DIVINE ENABLEMENT (VS. 13) = Doing His Good Pleasure = The Works of God That PLEASE ABBA…”A TAKE HOLD & CO-WORK with ABBA Process…A mystery in a sense as to How our FREE Will works together  with the Sovereignty  of God Gal. 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. The beauty of the Christian life is we are Truly FREE to do as we choose!..Jn. 14:15 If you Love me,Keep my commands Abba desires for us to live every moment right where He has us  transform the seemingly empty, boring, meaningless routines of life, as well as all the challenging situations you face into vibrant God-energized opportunities…”Then we will see Abba Working In Us Both to WILL & DO His Good Pleasure!”     14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings:…VS. 15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Now Paul begins to address the issue that was beginning to cause division among them…he had gotten this issue from Epaphroditus  , who perhaps had been attempting to cover his Brethrens' sin up due to His Love for them…PAUL exhorts THEM to be done with these negative things. ‘Murmurings'   gongysmos(ga—goose—mas) to mutter or murmur (used of the cooing of doves)it is said of this word that its ‘pronunciation'(‘sound') resembles its meaning…This is like a ‘hushed' undertone, like a whisper…& it is used against MEN, Not God …so far the dissension in the Philippian  Church was only an undercurrent ..this word was used of those who get together & complain secretly of their discontent ‘disputings'  dialogismos (diolly…gis..mas) this word has to do with debating with an underthought of suspicion & doubt………….Murmurings LED to DISPUTES Exodus 16:2,3 And the whole congregation of the children of Israel murmured against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness: And the children of Israel said unto them, Would to God we had died by the hand of the LORD in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the flesh pots, and when we did eat bread to the full; for ye have brought us forth into this wilderness, to kill this whole assembly with hunger.also vs. 9-12.. 17:2,3 chide & murmur about lack of water I Cr. 10:10 Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer. I Tim. 6:3-6 3 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,5 Perverse disputing(incessant wrangling, to wear out) of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. GRUBLING & COMPLAINING = a Trait of Unbelief, u cannot expect God to WORK & spew words of negativity into a matter Hebrews 4:11 Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief….apietheia Like a donkeyJ….unpersuadeable     vs15) ‘may be'  better rendered may become…implying that sin (this sin of dissension) was already sprouting  up among them..They were no longer blameless or harmless ‘blameless' no censure needed ,free from faults & defects 5:25-27 The church will be presented to God without Spot or blemish I Cr. 1:8 8 Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. I Tim. 3:2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; II Peter 3:14 14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and ‘harmless' unmixed or unadulterated , guileless Hebrews 7:26 For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; 10:16 Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. ‘sons' better rendering =children or ‘born ones' I Peter 1:13,14Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; 14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: 1:12 12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: I Jn. 3:1,2 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.   ‘without rebuke' without blemish, faultless , blameless 1:10 That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ. ‘Crooked' means that  which is perverse & wicked …THOSE  that turn away from the TRUTH 7:13,14Consider the work of God: for who can make that straight, which he hath made crooked         14 In the day of prosperity be joyful, but in the day of adversity consider: God also hath set    the one over against the other, to the end that man should find nothing after him. Isaiah 40:4,42:16,45:2 In the Millennium God will STRAIGHTEN all things out! ‘Perverse'  having a distorted TWIST …a stronger word than CROOKED, To Corrupt ( especially others) To Plot against (especially against the Gospel) to oppose, to turn from the correct path & lead others in a wrong way…OT. Meant being deceitful, fraudulent, SPEAKING FALSEHOODS (Pro. 4:24,8:8,17:20,19:1,23:33,Acts 20:30) ‘Shine'  the act of APPEARING not SHINING Isaiah 60:1 Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. ‘Lights' Heavenly Bodies like stars 5:14-16 14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. 5:8 For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: TRS……………All things be constantly doing w/o discontented & secret mutterings & grumblings., & w/o discussions which carry an undertone of suspicion or doubt , to the end that ye may become those who are deserving of no censure , free from fault or defect, & guileless in their simplicity, children of God w/o blemish, in the midst of a perverse generation, among who ye appears as luminaries in the world (Phil. 2:14,15 (The Greek Expanded Translation~Kenneth S Wuest) POINT: STOP complaining about problems & circumstances in Your life…that's what everyone does in this age we live in..WE Must have an OBEDIENCE of Faith (God Working in US) that exudes out of USJ & shows us to be different!:-)       VS.16 Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain. Holding Forth meaning to ‘hold forth so as to offer'….as in what one would offer to a guest as in a refreshment when they visit your house. WE as Saints ‘hold forth' Salvation to the lost to ‘Refresh, revive' them Rejoice the real meaning of this word is to ‘boast' or ‘to glory' That  Because Day of Christ = Rapture of the Church Labored to labor to the point of exhaustion So if the Philippians would continue to OFEER the Word  to pagans & each other Paul would then have a basis for glorying or boasting when Jesus Christ returned for His Saints…AS Paul would not have totally spent himself (exhausted himself) in vain on their behalf 17Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.18 For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me. Offered Upon literally ‘poured out as a drink offering'….Paul is here referring to His own Life offered up in the violent death he will someday endure as a martyr for Christ…His BLOOD will be poured out as a drink offering. II Tim. 4:6 6 For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand….trs. “For my life's blood is already being poured out” Service    this word draws upon the OT. Example of priests ministering & serving …literally ‘sacred ministration' Paul draws upon this example of Him sacrificing His life as an example to the Philippians of The Christian Life of serving each other through humility as unto God “God at Work In US” is the fertile ground of a Rejoicing, Refreshing, Fruitful Christian Life; pouring out Rivers of Living Water to Others based upon an unrelenting reliance on ABBA that lives within each one of us…That is the mystery of the Gospel!:-) ….Col.1:27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

“Having a Kenosis Encounter”(Philippians 2:5-11 ) (07/16/21) THEME: Chapter 2 “Have the MIND of Christ” Vs. 5 “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:…” This exhortation finds its definition in vs. 2:2-4 …a) To THINK the same thing, b) HAVE the same Love …c) To be in HEART UNITY or agreement d) carry oneself in a ‘low running mind'(humility) ..e) To see to it that your Brethren EXCELL/SURPASS You Now in Phil. 2:6-8 we will see an illustration of what that means & how it applies to us GREEK Rendering: “This Be Ye Constantly THINKING in YOU ,which was also in Christ Jesus”………..The word THIS points us back to Phil. 2:4 for a definition of WHAT to constantly be THINKING “WHO” ( 2:6) connects the illustration(vs. 6-8) & definition (vs. 2-4)TOGETHER “Let This Mind Be” In GREEK ‘Let-Mind-Be' is ONE Word= PHRONEO= To have understanding, To DIRECT Ones Mind Towards a THING/CONCEPT…see II Timothy 1:7 (SOPHRONISMOS)…to seek or strive for , this word connotes to have in view the direction which the THINKING of a practical kind takes…understanding & marinating in THOUGHT   “Was” Can be either was or IS BOTTOM LINE: The Philippians (US) should emulate in their lives the distinctive virtues spoken of regarding Jesus in 2-4..'these' traits were the direction our Lord's HABITUAL thoughts..so was or Is , vs. 6 Because our Lord STILL embodies the same mind as He always did. THERE IS MORE!! We do Not just Imitate CHRIST we have HIS MIND!! I Jn. 2:27 But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. I Cr. 21-5 In the same way, my brothers, when I came to proclaim to you God's secret purpose, I did not come equipped with any brilliance of speech or intellect. You may as well know now that it was my secret determination to concentrate entirely on Jesus Christ and the fact of his death upon the cross. As a matter of fact, in myself I was feeling far from strong; I was nervous and rather shaky. What I said and preached had none of the attractiveness of the clever mind, but it was a demonstration of the power of the Spirit! Plainly God's purpose was that your faith should not rest upon man's cleverness but upon the power of God. 6-8 We do, of course, speak “wisdom” among those who are spiritually mature, but it is not what is called wisdom by this world, nor by the powers-that-be, who soon will be only the powers that have been. The wisdom we speak of is that mysterious secret wisdom of God which he planned before the creation for our glory today. None of the powers of this world have known this wisdom—if they had they would never have crucified the Lord of glory! 9-10a But as it is written: ‘Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love him'. But God has, through the Spirit, let us share his secret. 10b-12 For nothing is hidden from the Spirit, not even the deep wisdom of God. For who could really understand a man's inmost thoughts except the spirit of the man himself? How much less could anyone understand the thoughts of God except the very Spirit of God? And the marvelous thing is this, that we now receive not the spirit of the world but the Spirit of God himself, so that we can actually understand something of God's generosity towards us. This wisdom is only understood by the spiritual 13 It is these things that we talk about, not using the expressions of the human intellect but those which the Holy Spirit teaches us, explaining things to those who are spiritual. 14-16 But the unspiritual man simply cannot accept the matters which the Spirit deals with—they just don't make sense to him, for, after all, you must be spiritual to see spiritual things. The spiritual man, on the other hand, has an insight into the meaning of everything, though his insight may baffle the man of the world. This is because the former is sharing in God's wisdom, and ‘Who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct him?' Incredible as it may sound, we who are spiritual have the very thoughts(MIND) of Christ! PSALM 1 Vs. 6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: “FORM” (MORPHE-Greek) ..this word has no reference to the ‘shape' of any phys. Object as we think of it in our English language…”This word is used in its philosophical sense to denote THAT EXPRESSION of BEING which carries in itself the distinctive nature & character of the BEING to whom it pertains & is thus permanently IDENTIFIED with THAT NATURE & CHARACTER.”(Vincent)..ex. “The quarterbacks FORM was perfect today'' There is NO WORD in all the languages of the World to truly convey the DEPTHS of this meaning !!...this word(form) is used in a futile attempt to describe the essence of GOD's BEING & How He expresses Himself …our minds truly cannot CONCEIVE of this fully..even at times when He reveals Himself to us (Exodus 33:18-33) This word ‘MORPHE” used here is an outward expression of an inward & perfect Identity…see “TRANSFIGURATION”(Metamorphoo) ( 17:2..Mk. 9:2..II Cor. 3:18..Romans 12:2)   Jesus was /Is the DIVINE Essence of GOD & He was & IS EXPRESSING it to Mankind from His Innermost being… 2:9 9 For the entire fullness of God's nature[a] dwells bodily[b] in Christ, (HCSB)   HOWEVER……………………………………………. “Thought It Not Robbery” …Robbery means a thing unlawfully seized & a treasure to be clutched & kept at all costs”(seems to be 2 different meanings) CONTEXT in this passage ‘rules' as to the meaning of this phrase…so basically (see vs. 2-4) Jesus Gave up His rights to Express His divine NATURE (The MORPHE)..Jesus gave up the rights to HIS RIGHTS…we will see this further TRS. 6 who, although He existed in the form and unchanging essence of God [as One with Him, possessing the fullness of all the divine attributes—the entire nature of deity], did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped or asserted [as if He did not already possess it, or was afraid of losing it];(AMP) Jesus did not consider it ROBBERY to be = w/ABBA, yet he did NOT attempt to grasp it Though It was His right. 7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: Jesus did not see the TREASURE of His Expression of Deity as something to be Seized & kept at all costs…But rather he willingly gave this up..He relinquished His rights to that expression Jesus experienced & participated in Kenosis ( emptied Himself) = trs. Of ‘Made Himself of No Reputation' “The Form of A Servant” again as in vs. 6 MORPHE= Form…Servant = is a word Paul used in 1:1 when he described Himself as a BONDSLAVE GREEK grammar construction implies that Jesus FIRST took on the role of a BONDSLAVE Before he ‘Emptied Himself' (participated in KENOSIS)..by taking on the role of a BONDSLAVE caused him to participate IN KENOSIS…so we could say it this way….'Having Taken the FORM of a BOND SLAVE, Jesus Emptied Himself' Opposite in a way of vs 6….Jesus Gave up His Lordship in a sense to SERVE us…He emptied out Himself FOR US!... 20:28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many…He was exchanging DEITY /Lordship…for servanthood By the Act of KENOSIS Jesus totally obliterated His self-Life & emptied himself of every OUNCE of Deity For the Philippians KENOSIS was the Key to UNITY ***Jesus came to Live & Show us How ABBA Intended A Man/Woman to LIVE that was fully dependent on HIM*** I CR15:45-49 45 So it is written: The first man Adam became a living being;[m] the last Adam became a life-giving Spirit. 46 However, the spiritual is not first, but the natural, then the spiritual. 47 The first man was from the earth and made of dust; the second man is[n] from heaven. 48 Like the man made of dust, so are those who are made of dust; like the heavenly man, so are those who are heavenly. 49 And just as we have borne the image of the man made of dust, we will also bear the image of the heavenly man.   John 13:1-17 Jesus washes the disciples feet…………….(vs. 12-17)  When Jesus had washed their feet and put on His robe, He reclined[a] again and said to them, “Do you know what I have done for you? 13 You call Me Teacher and Lord. This is well said, for I am. 14 So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. 15 For I have given you an example that you also should do just as I have done for you16 “I assure you: A slave is not greater than his master,[b] and a messenger is not greater than the one who sent him. 17 If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them MTT. 26:7-13 7 a woman approached Him with an alabaster jar of very expensive fragrant oil. She poured it on His head as He was reclining at the table. 8 When the disciples saw it, they were indignant. “Why this waste?” they asked. 9 “This might have been sold for a great deal and given to the poor.” 10 But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, “Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a noble thing for Me. 11 You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have Me. 12 By pouring this fragrant oil on My body, she has prepared Me for burial. 13 I assure you: Wherever this gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told in memory of her.”     8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. “In Likeness of Men having BECOME” (Grk.) Fashion or appearance Humbled = To bring Low..like ‘run low' This is not the emptying part but refers to the self- humiliation of death on the Cross A death of Ignominy & degradation HEBREWS 5:7-8 7 During His earthly life,[a] He offered prayers and appeals with loud cries and tears to the One who was able to save Him from death, and He was heard because of His reverence. 8 Though He was God's Son, He learned obedience through what He suffered.(HCSB) 1:14 The Word became flesh[a] and took up residence[b] among us. We observed His glory, the glory as the One and Only Son[c] from the Father, full of grace and truth.(HCSB) ** It was Not just Enough for Jesus to show US How a Person Fully dependent on ABBA should Live..BUT In Giving Up His Rights As God's Favored Son , He was fully able to Bear & take On ALL the world's Injury, SIN & Insults ,ultimately resulting In His WILLING Death On the Cross** LUKE 9:23-24 23 And He was saying to them all, “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me. 24 For whoever wants to save his [a]life will lose it, but whoever loses his [b]life for My sake, this is the one who will save it.( NASB) Hebrews 12:2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.     VS.9  Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:   (VS. 9) “WHEREFORE/Also” that is, because of Jesus voluntarily humbling Himself God has highly exalted Him “Highly Exalted”  The Grk. Construction of this term means ‘to exalt to the highest rank & power , to raise to supreme majesty', that is, a SUPER- EMINENT exaltation. “Given”  as also in Romans 8:32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?....Given & Freely given  in these vs. are the Grk. Word ‘Charizomai'…to show favor, grant, bestow, forgive… This is speaking in regard to our Salvation that God freely gave to us through Jesus AS WELL as here ABBA bestowing on the Man Christ Jesus HIS EXALTED position …because he voluntarily subjected Himself to the subordinate position as “Sin-Bearer on the Cross”…OTHER TRS……”Freely Bestowed” (Vincent)…”Gave” (Lightfoot)…GRACIOUSLY GIVEN (Thayer) Not just A NAME but THE NAME…the definite article appearing In the Greek language REFERS to a PARTICULAR NAME…THE NAME is a common  Hebrew Title  which denotes office, rank, or dignity…see “The Name of God” in the O.T. = Divine Presence, Divine Majesty, adoration & Praise CONTEXT HERE: Points to the Honor & Praise BESTOWED on Jesus as one who was GIVEN…THE NAME..The Man Christ Jesus was who was elevated to the HEIGHT Exaltation of Supreme  DEITY John 17:5And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. Every Jew reading this would know immediately what Paul meant, because in the Jewish scriptures there was a name that was never pronounced. They called him the Ineffable Tetragrammaton. Ineffable means unspeakable, unpronounceable. Tetragrammaton means four letters, YHWH . It was the name YHWH—Jehovah..Christ Won This position through His Resurrection! VS.10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; “That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow” = It is at THE NAME that belongs to  & was GIVEN to Jesus at His exaltation to which every knee will bow AT should Be IN The NAME is  the Spiritual Metron/Sphere in which every prayer should be offered & to which every knee shall bow All CREATION will give Honor & Homage to THE NAME ISAIAH 45:22-23Turn to Me and be saved, all the ends of the earth. For I am God, and there is no other. 23 By Myself I have sworn; Truth has gone from My mouth, a word that will not be revoked: Every knee will bow to Me, every tongue will swear allegiance.       ROMANS 14:10-12 But you, why do you criticize your brother? Or you, why do you look down on your brother? For we will all stand before the tribunal of God.[a]11 For it is written: As I live, says the Lord, every knee will bow to Me, and every tongue will give praise to God.[b] 12 So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God. ACTS 2:33Therefore, since He has been exalted to the right hand of God and has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit, He has poured out what you both see and hear.     11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.   “CONFESS” means to openly or plainly confess, that is to AGREE with someone, this word also means to publically Declare….this word Confess is often associated with praise & Thanksgiving   JUST what does Lord mean? Lord means he has the right to everything he surveys. In Scotland he is called, the Laird. The Laird of the castle has the right to ownership and authority, who holds the key to everything-the one who has mastered all the forces he controls and is perfectly at ease in every situation he encounters. Paul says Christ is the one who has won that position because he unhesitatingly and unreservedly committed himself to all that was involved in the mind of Christ, that attitude of his own heart that led him first to mortality, then to ignominy, and finally to unequalled glory. CONCLUSION…………………………………………………………. YOU WILL ONLY RECEIVE THE MIND OF CHRIST TO THE DEGREE THAT YOU BELIEVE & RECEIVE IT! RESULT: Peace & The End of Conflict Paul is saying here: let the mind of Christ, involving the renunciation of your rights and the willingness to accept injury break through in your life. Accept these conditions as God's will for you. This is why you have Christ in you. Accept the hurt without complaint, and without fail he will bring you through to victory and to peace. ISAIAH 26:3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.

WHAT DO YOU VALUE?   6/10/22   INTRODUCTION:   I believe that when I connect my Values to the Gifts and Talents God has given me that I am and will be an “UNSTOPPABLE Force for Good” to all I meet. "The Veneration of My Values~MattGeib2011"   LUKE 12:6,7 6 “Are not five sparrows sold for two [a]copper coins? And not one of them is forgotten before God. 7 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. DIAPHERO (dee—a—pharo) Philippians 1:10 10 so that you may learn to recognize and treasure what is excellent [identifying the best, and distinguishing moral differences], and that you may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ [actually living lives that lead others away from sin]; (AMP)  DIAPHERO (dee—a—pharo) NKJV…That you may approve the Things that are excellent NASB…That you may Discover Things that are excellent AMPC…10 So that you may surely learn to sense what is vital, and approve and prize what is excellent and of real value [recognizing the highest and the best, and distinguishing the moral differences], and that you may be untainted and pure and unerring and blameless [so that with hearts sincere and certain and unsullied, you may approach] the day of Christ [not stumbling nor causing others to stumble]. (essential, superior, vital) God's not looking so much for perfection, yet he is looking for EXCELLENCE   DEFINITIONS: GREEK =Diapherō o bear or carry through any place to carry different ways to carry Through,carry in different directions, to different places of people who are carried hither and thither in a ship, driven to and fro to differ, to test, prove, to prove the good or excellent , things that differ, to distinguish between good and evil, lawful and unlawful, to approve of things that excel, to differ from one To Prove a thing/quality with a view to or for APPROVAL to excel, surpass one impersonally(Something that), it makes a difference, it matters, is of importance     FRENCH & LATIN: The word for value comes from the French word valor, from which we derive our English word Valour. Be Worth or Be Value, value in its purest sense is derived from the Latin word valere which means be strong, be worth, and be well….or be Strong &  Be Well; Be of VALUE   Vita non est vivere sed valere vita est!   It basically means, “life is not to live, but to live vigorously”. The exact literal translation would have sounded odd. Also, valere has a few different translations all meaning pretty much the same thing. It could also be read as strong or able. What it means is that there is more to life than existence, you need to do something or make something of yourself to make it worthwhile.   ENGLISH:   Of Monetary value A Numerical quantity Used Both as a Noun & Verb….Merit, worth, Is useful…MORALITY…of principles & ethics….TO (Verb) Appraise, evaluate, To appreciate, To esteem ..to highly esteem , to treasure cherish love…to hold in high regard   CULTIVATING VALUE:   We are should be  wanting to discover, develop & cultivate qualities (Virtues/Values) in our lives that are EXCELLENT or of usefulness(Info. Is taught, Values are caught)   In order to do this we must FIRST KNOW THAT we are VALUED or Have VALUE:   PSALM 139:13-14 For You formed my inward parts; You [a]covered me in my mother's womb. 14 I will praise You, for [b]I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well.   EPH. 1:5 5 having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will,   Romans 8:37-39 37 Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. 38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Jeremiah 29:11 11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.   I John 3:1 Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of [a]God!   I John 4:9 In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him.   Zepheniah 3:17 The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.   EXODUS 33:17,18,19   17So the LORD said to Moses, “I will do this very thing you have asked, for you have found favor in My sight, and I know you by name.” 18Then Moses said, “Please show me Your glory.” 19“I will cause all My goodness to pass before you,” the LORD replied, “and I will proclaim My name—the LORD—in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.”…/Matthew 7:7-11     Without God There Is No TRUE VALUE:   Romans 1:28 And even as they did not like to (DIAPHERO) retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting;   JOHN 3:16-19 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. 18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 19 And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.   MATTHEW 5:13-16 13 “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. 14 “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. Isaiah 5:20 Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! Some Qualities Worth Cultivating: II Peter 1:1-11 (Godly Virtues) 1 [a]Simon Peter, a bond-servant and apostle (special messenger, personally chosen representative) of Jesus Christ, To those who have [b]received and possess [by God's will] a precious faith of the [c]same kind as ours, by the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ: 2 Grace and peace [that special sense of spiritual well-being] be multiplied to you in the [true, intimate] knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. 3 For His divine power has bestowed on us [absolutely] everything necessary for [a dynamic spiritual] life and godliness, through [d]true and personal knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. 4 For by these He has bestowed on us His precious and magnificent promises [of inexpressible value], so that by them you may escape from the immoral freedom that is in the world because of disreputable desire, and become sharers of the divine nature. 5 For this very reason, applying your diligence [to the divine promises, make every effort] in [exercising] your faith to, [e]develop moral excellence, and in moral excellence, knowledge (insight, understanding), 6 and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, steadfastness, and in your steadfastness, godliness, 7 and in your godliness, brotherly affection, and in your brotherly affection, [develop Christian] love [that is, learn to unselfishly seek the best for others and to do things for their benefit]. 8 For as these qualities are yours and are increasing [in you as you grow toward spiritual maturity], they will keep you from being useless and unproductive in regard to the true knowledge and greater understanding of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For whoever lacks these qualities is blind—shortsighted [closing his spiritual eyes to the truth], having become oblivious to the fact that he was cleansed from his old sins. 10 Therefore, believers, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you [be sure that your behavior reflects and confirms your relationship with God]; for by [f]doing these things [actively developing these virtues], you will never stumble [in your spiritual growth and will live a life that leads others away from sin]; 11 for in this way entry into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly provided to you. Philippians 4:8 8 Finally, [a]believers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable and worthy of respect, whatever is right and confirmed by God's word, whatever is pure and wholesome, whatever is lovely and brings peace, whatever is admirable and of good repute; if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think continually on these things [center your mind on them, and implant them in your heart].            

Simple Yet Profound Lessons Found In the Gospels * Matthew 28:19,20 The Great Commission...We must Be 'directed' by Abba because the Harvest is plenteous * Matthew 5:21 Make sure you are PREPARED to Teach the Basics to New Believers, Teach as Jesus taught...To make Disciples you yourself must FIRST be a Disciple *Matthew 5 & 6  The Beatitudes represent the FRUIT of Discipleship for the Believer * Matthew 22 The Parable of the Wedding....'Call them ALL!'...Verse 11,12 Make sure the guests come dressed appropriately * Matthew 13: 8-13 We Must have discernment to KNOW of What soil people are in order to reach them * Ephesians 1:3 We are Blessed with ALL Spiritual Blessings In Heavenly Places....God desires to Give us a STRATEGY for effective Ministry

Making sure you are 'on time' with God's plan for your life

The 100th Episode with Apostolic General Athyna Stewart!

In this fascinating Interview  we begin to delve into the experiences of Visions, dreams, etc...That Prophetess Janine Armstrong has had since she was a young girl. Sadly, she was often misunderstood, & chastised for how God had created her to function in the Body of Christ & this world, this often caused her to hold back & hide in fear...BUT no longer!! As we see Janine has found her tribe of people that not only understand her but receive from her wonderful & at times mysterious ministry. After 23 years of working in the medical field as a surgical technician she felt the Lord lead her into full time ministry with The Kings Company online coaching school, and also serving as a Leader at Messiah Baptist Church In Newport News Va. Where the Lord has led her into a ministry that has always been in her heart. Dreams, Visions and interpretations of them.  Her goal is to show and teach that Heaven, Jesus, Holy Spirit are real, and are closer to you than the very breath in your body. “It has been in me to prove Jesus!!”  That dreams and visions are from God and I create space for understanding them.   “When I realized I was a resource for our Lord Jesus to be made manifest, and for people to dream again, God wrote these words on my heart, and they still ring true to this day that I am persuaded that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8)  

“Rallying  Around  UNITY ,Contending Together For The Faith” ~~ Philippians 1:27-2:4 (07/01/21)   Phil. 1:27 Only let your conversation/conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel,(NKJV) “Only” connects this all inclusive exhortation that Paul begins this portion of scripture with, with the previous verses (vs. 23-26) where we saw he was ‘between a rock & a hard place' about whether he should remain with them or go to be with Jesus in Heaven…He knew they needed His ministry & whether his salvation or deliverance meant being phys. Free from house arrest or not  he was now confident that he would be able to continue his ministry to them & that that was what he was to do. OPENESS  of heart by the Philippians was needed as Paul now begins to address basic spiritual needs of the church; rubber meets the road principals are  now provided throughout the rest of this letter to correct certain things in their lives & provide for what they may be lacking “Conversation/Conduct”  KJV uses conversation, which in that day had a different meaning than currently  ( an interchange or discourse between people)…a better rendering is manner of life, behavior ,conduct……………HOWEVER THERE IS MOREJ “POLITEUO” (Grk)( Poly –too-i-mi) this is the word from where we get our word politics, it referred to the  public duties devolving on a person as a member of a body of people Acts  23:1 I have lived (politeuo) =conducted myself  as a worthy citizen of heaven before God until this day FURTHER meaning….Manage the state (steward) , administrate civil affairs, here it speaks of citizenship …that is “Live as the citizens of heaven would exuding heavenly attributes” The use of Politeuo…is a kind of play on words as Philippi was a Roman colony & being a good citizen of Rome was imperative , so Paul uses this to show our relationship relationship to being good citizens of heaven   The use of this specialized word here COLORS the rest of the Epistle…giving it a Heavenly atmosphere,,,,we are heavenly people, with a heavenly destiny, & a heavenly origin…with a responsibility of living here on earth as being of the heavenly realm in the midst of ungodly people & surroundings. 3:20 But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior. 3:12 All who are victorious will become pillars in the Temple of my God, and they will never have to leave it. And I will write on them the name of my God, and they will be citizens in the city of my God—the new Jerusalem that comes down from heaven from my God. And I will also write on them my new name. Only let your conversation/conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ….The construction of the Greek language conveys STEPPING up To ONES spiritual RESPONSIBILITY as ‘Heavenly Citizens'… being responsible to exhort OURSELVES to live this way daily!= Maturity!:-) Only let your conversation/conduct Be Worthy of The Gospel—KJV says Be as It Becometh the Gospel Becometh …literally to have the weight of(weighing as much as) another thing. It means of like value or worth as much **SAINTS are to see to it that their manner of life weighs as much as the gospel they profess to believe or their words will not have weight** WORD STUDY: Eph. 4:22-24 You took off[a] your former way of life, the old self[b] that is corrupted by deceitful desires; 23 you are being renewed[c] in the spirit of your minds; 24 you put on[d] the new self, the one created according to God's likeness in righteousness and purity of the truth.(HCSB)  “Conversation”  anastrophē ‘manner or way of Life'(conduct) ITim. 4:12, Heb. 13:5-7, Jn. 3:13, I Peter 1:15-18 **I Peter 3:1,2, II Peter 2:7,3:11       “That You STAND FAST” Be Firm & Upright in holding ones ground Implication:  there is an enemy(s) we must confront, When you become a Christian you enter a ‘Spiritual Battle' (Eph. 6:12)..Here Paul begins to address the attack on Unity that was coming against the Philippian  church   “One Spirit”…This speaks of the Unity of the Spirit which the Body of Christ is to be fused & blended in…of course produced in our spirits by the influence of God's Holy Spirit “Mind”….trs. of Grk. Word ‘Soul'…our reasons, our will, emotions…this is where EXERTION takes place as we are influenced by God (not the World) “Striving” (synathleō)is the trs. Of a Grk. Word used in an Athletic contest…our words ‘athlete' & athletic come from this word….the GREEK language conveys a Powerful picture of an Athletic team WORKING TOGETHER in Perfect coordination to Win a competition/game.(Lk. 13:24,Ro. 15:30) Paul here is exhorting the Phil. To work together in perfect co-ordination like a team of Greek Athletes toward a common Goal/ Prize…………………LOL!! Paul must have been a ‘Sports Fan'! he is always using athletic metaphors to expound upon the Christian life….(see…I tim.4:7-10,IITim.2:5,I Cr.9:24-26,Phil. 3:12,13,Heb. 12:1, Eph. 6:12) “Only (since my only reason for remaining on earth is for your progress in the Christian life), see to it that you recognize your responsibility as citizens (of heaven), & put yourselves to the absolute necessity of performing the duties devolving upon you in that position, doing this in a manner which is befitting to the gospel of Christ, in order that whether having come & having seen you, or whether being absent I am hearing the things concerning you ,namely, that you are standing firm in one spirit, holding your ground, with one soul contending (as a team of athletes would ) in perfect co-operation with one another for the faith of the gospel.” ~Philippians 1:27 The New Testament Expanded Translation ~ Kenneth S. Wuest   “Terrified”  used by the grks. To describe the terror of a startled horse …”Adversaries” here Paul is referring to the pagan idolators in Philippi who would oppose the Saints “Evident Token” a law term that denotes  proof which is obtained by an appeal to facts,,,which were “that of God.” Connecting ‘striving together' (vs. 27) this evident token is A possible allusion to A Gladiators contest in the Ampitheater …The Christian Gladiator Knows GOD is the director of the contest & Has given Him a sure/evident token of deliverance The idea verse  28 conveys is the Saints in Philippi have not allowed themselves to be scared by antagonism from the pagan community & thus this  was clear evidence to convince the pagans that they (the pagans)were on the road to hell & the Saints were clearly saved I Peter 2:12 Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation. I Peter 3:12-17 because the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are open to their request. But the face of the Lord is against those who do what is evil.[a]13 And who will harm[b] you if you are deeply committed to what is good?[c]14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear or be disturbed,[d]15 but honor[e] the Messiah[f] as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason[g] for the hope that is in you. 16 However, do this with gentleness and respect, keeping your conscience clear,[h][i]so that when you are accused,[j] those who denounce your Christian life[k] will be put to shame. 17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God's will,[l] than for doing evil.     “FOR”….connects the thought from previous vs. (28) on not being in fear because…… “For unto you it is given” the ‘IT' has been graciously given to you just like the free gift of salvation given to you , this IT also means ‘on behalf of, in the place of' ‘IT' – “It has been graciously given the saints to suffer not only for the sake of BUT in THE PLACE of Christ” POINT: suffering from Pagans/the enemy may cause terror, HOWEVER when viewed in God's light, it was really a gift of God's Grace and NOT evil   “Conflict” (Agon) –agony ….again a picture or word used to describe an athletic contest. Paul again was using this  metaphor to describe our Christian Life…we are God's athletes to whom he has given an opportunity to show the stuff we are made of conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me….Paul uses this picture to describe his own Untiring work for the Gospel of Christ   WORD STUDY: ** Suffering for the Gospel IS Scriptural** II Tim. 3:12 10 But you have followed my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, patience, love, and endurance, 11 along with the persecutions and sufferings that came to me in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra. What persecutions I endured! Yet the Lord rescued me from them all. 12 In fact, all those who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.(HCSB) 3:10 10 My goal is to know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death Acts 5:41,9:16,II Cor.1:7,Romans 8:17,36, I Peter 2:20,4:16,5:10, Matt. 5:11, Heb. 11:25     Phil. 2:1,2 Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, (2) fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. The exhortation that Paul had given in 1:27 is kind of a ‘Hope-So' for the Phil. To be standing fast in  One Spirit w/ a single Mind , striving together as a TEAM  for Faith in the Gospel is further elaborated on now..verse 2 here basically repeats the same hope/exhortation AN EXHORTATION TO UNITY as shown by FOUR FACTS in 2:1 “If” could be since or in view of the fact …(is FACT & yet conditional) 1)“CONSOLATION” …we could say consolation IS a Certain Thing/attribute (Grk.) GRK. (PARAKLESIS..Par-auk-leeseis, It's ROOT= paraklētos ,'Comforter' ) Is a calling near, summons, (esp. for help) THE CONTEXT ALWAYS DETERMINES Meaning) a calling near, summons, (esp. for help) importation, supplication, entreaty exhortation, admonition, encouragement consolation, comfort, solace; that which affords comfort or refreshment thus of the Messianic salvation (so the Rabbis call the Messiah the consoler, the comforter) persuasive discourse, stirring address instructive, admonitory, conciliatory, powerful hortatory discourse In view of the FACT that The PHIL. Were under ATTACK to become DISUNIFIED CONSOLATION Here meant EXHORTATION…POINT: Christ's Life should be an exhortation ,admonition, & encouragement for the Phil. To live in a state of HARMONY  with each other, to be likeminded. 2)“COMFORT” literally is a word which comes to the side of one to stimulate or comfort Him/Her…it speaks of persuasive address…”Of  Love (AGAPE)” Agape…produces the action (compelling) of COMFORT , loving persuasion & encouragement ..HERE coming through the ‘Instrument' of the  Apostle urging them to Live in UNITY 3)“Fellowship Of The Spirit”  A koinōnia , a sharing & joint participation in GODLY Things together as Saints & also Including God's Spirit …Paul implores since all of them participate In common activities & interests of the HS. there should be a NATURAL flow of UNITY in their midst….so again be Like-Minded  PROBLEM: Not all were living Spirit-Filled & Controlled Lives..(Remember the song ‘One Bad apple?…J)   4)“Bowels  & Mercies” Or…Tenderheartedness & Compassionate Yearnings These deep emotions & graces of love should dispel differences & bickering among the Phil., Estrangements should be healed 2 FULFILL…”…. Literally “complete or FILL FULL', BE Likeminded…literally  THINK THE SAME THING!....this Like-mindedness is shown by 3 elements mentioned in this verse a)Having the same love  b) being in HEART agreement (soul to soul agreement…literal) c) thinking the ONE THING TRS. (WUEST) “ Fill Full my joy by thinking the same thing , having the same love, being in Heart agreement, thinking the ONE Thing” WORD STUDY: Unity/Oneness …Think ‘Phalanax' Romans 15:6 That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. ACTS 4:32 And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. Eph. 4:1-7 Therefore I, the prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk worthy of the calling you have received, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, accepting[a] one another in love, 3 diligently keeping the unity of the Spirit with the peace that binds us. 4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope[b] at your calling— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all7 Now grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of the Messiah's gift. (HCSB) Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!_PS. 133:1 EPH. 4:3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. EPH. 4:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith     3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. “THROUGH”  this in the Grk. Shows an compelling Motive “STRIFE” has the idea of being FACTIOUS I Cor. 3:3  For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? JAMES 3:14-1614 But if ye have bitter envy and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.15 Such wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish16 For where envy and strife are, there is confusion and every evil work. II Cr. 12:20,Gal. 5:15, 20,21 ,I Tim.6:4,Lk. 14:11,Ro. 12:10,I Cr. 15:9,Eph. 4:2,I Peter 5:5 Paul's exhortation is POINTING to different factions in the Church of Philippi that he is wanting to Address & correct “Vain glory”  consist of 2 Words = a) ‘Empty, vain, of no purpose, futile & b) Opinion …we could say  EMPTY PRIDE “LOWLINESS” trs. Other places as humble, humility …Plato said of this word the state of mind that accepts what the universe offers & does not impiously exalt itself…bad meaning to pagans= ‘abject groveling” THE NT Meaning   Connotes enoblement…I PETER 5:6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, “It Runs Low' …this word used secularly to describe the Nile River in the dry season “Esteem” To lead, to be a leader ,have  command, to consider, deem account think-- from a root word which refers to looking at EXTERNAL Facts, to weigh & judge a person , NOT ones inner feelings or sentiment “BETTER” literally ‘having above' , thus to excel , or surpass         4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. “LOOK” – to fix attention upon w/ desire & interest in…Lightfoot= “ To consult one's own Interest” RO 12:15 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. 14:19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. 15:1 We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. I Cr. 12:26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. I Cr. 8:9-13 I Cr. 10:24  

Unity & Order are a key attribute that the church must possess Examples are mentioned...Moses, Anninias & Saphira to show the danger of disunity

Sakira shares her powerful testimony, along with a Powerful seasonal word about 'Pursuing Generational Blessing'

What is the true Biblical role of a Pastor?

“Advancing Through or In ADVERSITY” ~ Philippians 1:12-26  THEME of Chapter : Christ OUR Life…….Verse 21 “For To Me , to LIVE is CHRIST To DIE is Gain” Four Qualities of AUTHENTIC Christian Faith: Adversity means to ADVANCE Rivalry causes Rejoicing TESTING Produces Triumph DEATH Unveils Delight PHIL.1:12-14(NKJV) ADVERSITY MEANS TO ADVANCE: 12 But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance (ADVANCE)of the gospel, 13 so that it has become evident to the whole [a]palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ; 14 and most of the brethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. ITIM 4:12-15 12 Let no one [a]despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, [b]in spirit, in faith, in purity. 13 Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to [c]14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership. 15 Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.   II Chron. 20:20,21 20 So they rose early in the morning and went out into the Wilderness of Tekoa; and as they went out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, “Hear me, O Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem: Believe in the Lord your God, and you shall be established; believe His prophets, and you shall prosper.” 21 And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed those who should sing to the Lord, and who should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army and were saying: PROSPER = saleah (SAH…LAYACH)…To advance ,prosper, make progress, push forward breakout WENT out BEFORE =yasaw (YAT-Saw) …To Proceed, move forward in front 2:2 2 but having both suffered before, and having been injuriously treated (as ye have known) in Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the good news of God in much conflict, PROVERBS 28:1 The righteous ARE BOLD as a Lion     PHIL. 1:15-18(NKJ) RIVALRY CAUSES REJOICING: 15 It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16 The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. 18 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. I Cor. 3:1-7  Brothers and sisters, I could not address you as people who live by the Spirit but as people who are still worldly—mere infants in Christ. 2 I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. 3 You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans? 4 For when one says, “I follow Paul,” and another, “I follow Apollos,” are you not mere human beings5 What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe—as the Lord has assigned to each his task. 6 I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. 7 So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. Acts 8:12-17 Philip, James , & John work together in Samaria to further the Gospel ROMANS 12:10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 5:15-26 Fruits of the FLESH devour…Fruits of The Spirit bring LIFE!! James 3:14-16 14 But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15 Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. I Peter 2:1 Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. “I Want The Biggest TENT!” 4:2 2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Hebrews 10:24 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds Can you take the success of others? That's one of the hardest tests of Christian maturity, isn't it? I don't think there is a clearer mark of Christian maturity than to be able to genuinely rejoice -- not just say pious words -- but genuinely rejoice in the success of another(THE LADDERJ) PHIL. 1:19-20 Testing Produces TRIUMPH 19 For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance(salvation) through your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, 20 according to my earnest expectation and hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. “THIS” Refers to the fact that Christ is being EVEN MORE WIDELY PROCLAIMED due to Paul's imprisonment “Deliverance/Salvation” (SO..TERIA) not referring here to phys. Salvation…but more of a connotation of health & well being( 9:21,22) …This WORD means deliverance, preservation, safety, salvation (Phys. Or spiritually)…the context decides meaning BEAUTIFUL TRUTH HERE = The know. That Paul's Imprisonment was actually advancing the Gospel Message was like a TONIC to Paul's soul = HIS SALVATION, brought well- being to Him!!,instead of discouragement PRAYER!! Not possible w/o Prayer! 20..”EARNEST EXPECTATION”—( apokaradokia…Apo…kara…dakia)literally ‘away the head to watch' = to look to watch…to crane & out stretch ones Head LOOKING for something in Eager expectation!:-)(see ROMANS 8:19)….AN INTENSE FOCUS…Not looking anywhere else RIVETED on something…in this context, next phrase defines what Paul is focused on…w/ His whole HEART/Being “In nothing I Shall Be ashamed…BUT w/ALL BOLDNESS”….This literally means ‘The TOTAL Freedom of Speech”…..as He was in House arrest He could have given in to Fear of Govt.( Roman Empire)in Retaliation for His Preaching …shrunk back & failed in His Mission as The Gentile Apostle …He wanted to Maintain His Bold Testimony as shown throughout His missionary career NOTE it was Paul's INTENSE DESIRE (Earnest Expectation) to Magnify God IN /W HIS WHOLE HEART/BEING, not just His words, even if He had to lay down his life as a martyr……….see…. Christ will be magnified in my body…MAGNIFY…Literally to MAKE GREAT, Conspicuous..to GET Glory & Praise! I Cor. 4:5-12 5 For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus' sake. 6 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.7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. 8 We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed— 10 always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. 11 For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus' sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. 12 So then death is working in us, but life in you. 23:10 But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.   I Peter 1:6,7 6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been [a]grieved by various trials, 7 that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ,   PHIL. 1:21-26 “Death Unveils Delight” 21 For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 22 But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I [a]cannot tell. 23 [b]For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. 24 Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you. 25 And being confident of this, I know that I shall remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy of faith, 26 that your rejoicing for me may be more abundant in Jesus Christ by my coming to you again.   with Christ, which is far better. = A Christians VIEW of DEATH HOWEVER……  For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain =Paul's VIEW…He was content even overjoyed either way!...he was not ‘pining' for heaven…what about us!?, are we living such a LIFE, fully content, fulfilled, walking out God's plan daily (In EXCITEMENT! )& yet READY & Desirous of HEAVEN!? 3:4when the Christ -- our life -- may be manifested, then also we with him shall be manifested in glory. ACTS 17:28 For In HIM we LIVE & Move & Have our Being! “To Die” more literally, to Have died… this is showing that the state of death will usher in The Glorious heavenly realm I COR.5:1-8 For we know that if our earthly [a]house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 2 For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed with our [b]habitation which is from heaven, 3 if indeed, having been clothed, we shall not be found naked. 4 For we who are in this tent groan, being burdened, not because we want to be unclothed, but further clothed, that mortality may be swallowed up by life. 5 Now He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who also has given us the Spirit as [c]a guarantee. 6 So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord. 7 For we walk by faith, not by sight. 8 We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. CONCLUSION: What do you think is really living? What kind of circumstance do you have to have before you can say "Oh, now I'm really living"? What do you substitute for "Christ" in these words of Paul? "To me to live is money"? Then to die is to lose it all, isn't it? "To me to live is fame"? To die is a name in the obituary in the paper and never have it there again. "To me to live is pleasure"? To die is to go out into an unknown. "To me to live is health"? To die is to lose my health. You see the only thing that makes sense in life is to say with the Apostle, "for me to live is Christ," because then you can say "to die is gain."     The truth about the Christian faith is that heaven begins down here. 1:3 Blessed is the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who did bless us in every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, 2:6; For he raised us from the dead along with Christ, and we are seated with him in the heavenly realms—all because we are one with Christ Jesus.   Adversity First, let's look at the meaning of ADVERSITY, and allow that to saturate our minds and hearts. In Hebrew, the word is “ra,” and has these following connotations: affliction, calamity, distress, hurt, evil, sorrow, trouble, being mistreated. Adversity is not only physical duress, but is often accompanied by a heavy mental and ---------------------------------------------------------emotional state of being as well. The word “ra” comes from a root word meaning to spoil harm, break, or grind into pieces that are good for nothing--worthless!...........see Job 1& 2 Ecclesiastes  7:13-14 Consider the work of God; for who can make straight what He hath made crooked? In the day of prosperity enjoy the good, and in the day of adversity consider: God hath also set the one beside the other, to the end that man should find out nothing {of what shall be} after him. (Darby trs.) Psalm 51:17  DAVID pleaded with God to have a BROKEN Spirit, and a BROKEN and CONTRITE Heart. In the Hebrew language, both BROKEN and CONTRITE in their root forms mean to be shattered and ground up into pieces beyond recognition. This shows then that David had accepted the “Gift of Adversity” that God had set before him. Amazingly this takes us back to the basic root meaning of ADVERSITY, which also means to be broken and ground up into nothing. Adversity, then, is all about leading us to fully humble ourselves in repentance, submission, and trust in our Heavenly Father, realizing that only by trusting in Him can we have the life he desires for us. I PETER 5:6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

David Hitzfelder is an up & coming Teacher in the Body of Christ David Call to be a Teacher On this episode we discuss the difference between Pastoring & Teaching What makes up a good teacher And the 'Volleyball' method of teaching others

We begin an exegetical study of the book of Philippians We find that in order to receive true Transformation we must be an integral part of The Body of Christ

Philippians is such a simple & yet profound book! The concepts of Joy, Rejoicing, Humility & Unity on the face of it seem so simple to grasp & yet they are deeply profound. Joy & Rejoicing must be birthed within our hearts by God, they can never be 'faked' or manufactured! True & lasting Joy & Rejoicing can not come from earthly pleasures or circumstances that only last for awhile, But can only come from an intimate relationship with our Creator.  

Proverbs 18:4 Wise words are like deep waters; wisdom flows from the wise like a bubbling brook. Today we listen to the wisdom from Helen on different topics regarding the Prophetic & its best use in the church . In the Hebrew the Word Prophesy means literally 'To BUBBLE FORTH'...These were definitely words of insight bubbling forth!

Justin Blair & I discuss the Importance of providing loving church leadership in an often tumultuous & confusing church culture

The Bible tells us to Taste & See that the Lord is GOOD, Blessed is the man that Trusts in Him! (Psalm 34:8)... And that God's Words are SWEET ... How sweet are your words to my taste,     sweeter than honey to my mouth!~ Psalm 119:103 Pastor/Apostle David Farwell shares some amazing & timely Insights that will enable you, the listener to find that 'Sweet Spot' in Abba regardless of your circumstances HERE are some timely QUESTIONS that David asked us that will help make your experience in God Sweeter.... START WITH CELEBRATION Philemon 1:6 says, “that the sharing of your faith may become effective by the acknowledgment of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.” Zephaniah 3:17 says, “The Lord your God in your midst, The Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.” - Where is God looking at your life and rejoicing? - What good things does He see in you already? - What makes you joyful about where you are right now? _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ ______SELF-EXAMINATION: “LOOK WITH A VIEW TOWARDS APPROVAL” Think about the increases that you've experienced so far. Choose one to examine more closely. - How has the enemy tried to spoil your celebration or steal your progress in this area? - Are there any gains previously made that God is excited to see you re-establish together? _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ ___________ACTIVATE YOUR INCREASE Make a list of your challenges and/or areas where you continue to experience guilt, shame or condemnation (small or large). Write this at the top of your list: - This list does not reflect what is wrong with me, only what is missing in my relationship with God that He has every intention of providing and increasing!! _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________      

A Typological Lesson from Elijah & Elisha , Two Widows , & Clay Pots

A Great Typological lesson of the Potter (God) & The clay (People)..How God seeks to form us in His Hands for His will