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Chapter Overviews In Part

Carnality               1. The Gospel    2. The Group   3. The Bible   4. Spiritual Gifts   5. The Change Self Righteousness 6. the Loss  God's Righteousness 7. And "You"   8. Holy Sacrifice   9. Desolation   Habitual Practice 10. The Presence   11. The Change   12. The Living

Chapter one
	The Gospel This Book opens with a look "around us" ...   "Alive" Spiritually    "And you has he quickened (made "alive, aware), who were dead in trespasses and sins;  where in times past you walked (conducted your lifestyle)  according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now works in the children of disobedience:  and were by nature the children of wrath.  (Gk. orge',  passion, get what you can) But God, who is rich in mercy, has quickened us together with Christ  (joined us with the "revealor", and has raised us up  with Him  to work out of Heavenly places) that "throughout the eras",  ... He might show the exceeding riches of His grace and kindness toward us  (and  to the people of the world). For by grace are you saved through faith;  not of yourselves:  it is the gift of God:  not of works, lest any man should boast.  (comp: St. John ch.14,15,16) For we are His workmanship  created in Christ Jesus unto good works.  For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. (Vs.18)  ...  "spiritual" Therefore you are no more strangers, but of the household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles, and prophets, Jesus Christ himself ... being the chief cornerstone; In whom (God) all the building, ... fitly framed together, grows unto a holy temple ... in the LORD. In whom you also are built together for a habitation of God ... through the Spirit."        - Ephesians ch.2 In these first chapters of Ephesians, the apostle Paul explains that the Gospel is the quickening of us with Christ (by the Spirit), that we might join him in his acts of reconciliation ... in the earth. This is a Spiritual ministry, and the household that He is building is a  "Spiritually built House".  Notice (vs. 20) that the foundation in not a book, or creed, but rather, a foundation of "ministry".  (See also:  Revelation 19:10,13) In Ephesians 2:13-18, Paul talks about the religious laws, and practices, that people struggle with as they try to please a God who they don't know. Joining into the group, and marching in the parade, is not the Gospel. (even "forgiveness"  is not the Gospel) But,  ... "Through Him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father." (Vs.18) Joining a church tradition, practicing a doctrinal faith, living according to scripture comments and not knowing God ... is just a philosophy. Being introduced to the Holy Spirit, and being reconciled to the unknown God, ... is the Gospel. This "relationship" comes through ministers of the Gospel preaching the "rh'ema" Word, ... which results in Spiritual realization.  (the "voice" of the  Holy Spirit)                                 We don't have to understand everything.  We don't need a philosophy. We need to hear, and see, what the Holy Spirit would "reveal" to us. (St. John 4:14,24, 6:63, 14:10,11, 26) ____ We try to establish a "belief system" so that we can make judgments.  (we judge between "good" and "evil") All the while, we should be hearing, and obeying. We have ... too much to say.  We talk too much. We move ... too fast.   We are carnal, moving out of our "intellect" rather than the Spirit voice. We have Bible Studies, and teach knowledge, and judgment, and principles that appeal to the intellect:  when we should be bringing people to relationship with God's Spirit. Our preachers tell people what they have been told by other teachers, and our activities lead folks to a false consolation, and error. Is this serious ?  Yes, much too serious to describe.  Better to keep quiet, than to give false consolation. Carnality, under the name of religion, is Satan's device.                                                                           The  Apostle  Paul's "Call" "At midday, I saw a light from heaven shining round about me. And I heard a voice speaking unto me saying,  "Saul, why do you persecute me ? " And I said,   "W ho are you  ...  Lord?" And He said,  "I am Jesus  ...  whom you persecute. Rise, and stand upon your feet: for I have appeared unto you for this purpose, to make you a minister, and a witness, both of these things which you have seen, and of those things in which I will appear unto you, selecting you from the people.  To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, as well as inheritance among them who are sanctified by faith in me." I was not disobedient  ... to the heavenly vision." - Paul  (Acts 26:13-19) "Then Paul was also filled with the Holy Ghost, and he ministered". - Acts ch.9	Pgs 1 - 44

Chapter two
	The Group Carnality and "the Group" ...   The Gospel teaches us to save the person, and bring individual confidence and association with God ... into being. The Group teaches us to save the group, and bring confidence ...  to association with the group. Get caught up with the activity in the group; or get censored because of ... individual activity. If we are accepted by the group, that's good;  but we may not necessarily be encouraged to blossom as a unique expression ...of the Spirit of God. Some of us should possibly be encouraged to stop many of our activities, as we may need a time of stillness in our life just to restore our relationship with the Spirit of God.  (some activities are not necessary) We go to church and are told to "stand up", ... then "sit down", shake your neighbor's hand, ... repeat after me, sing this song, pray this prayer, do this job, come to this event, read this during the week.  Now, listen to "me".  This is when we will start. This is when we will end.     Now, "go in peace". This is how to kill a Spiritual relationship in a person's life. We dropped the Law of the Torah, but we picked up the law of the group.            One of the great scriptures about "group fellowship" is found in Ephesians chapter 4. We have already looked at Ephesians chs.1 and 2, where we have discussed our personal relationship with the Spirit of revelation, and also briefly heard Paul's own story of his call. (ch.3) Now, the apostle addresses the group as to how they should understand their relationship with one another. "That you walk worthy of the vocation wherewith you are called"  (vs.1) Paul sees a "unique" individual vocation, or calling, upon each life ... that has experienced the Gospel. He goes on to say (vs.4) that God has a "hope" (intent)  for your calling. The essence of this whole chapter is that this spiritual household would be built up, fitly joined together, as a result of the work of God's Spirit through His called ones; thereby honoring their vocation, and the "hope of His calling". Somehow, we have adopted our own safe list that we draw from that's called "church jobs",  and that's how we get people involved, and hopefully keep them in the group.  But, I can assure you that you're not going to find that list ... in Ephesians ch.4.          When we don't believe that the Gospel is a revelation, and that the church is a Spiritual household, then we won't have confidence in the individual's ministry, either. ____ During the second century of the early church we see a deterioration of recognition for the presence of God's Spirit, as politically minded bishops formed their organizations. The seven councils of Carthage (up to 258 AD) met to discuss such issues as would determine the creed, the accepted scriptural writings, church practices,  ... and now, what would be considered Holy. By the time Constantine (325 AD) adopted the Christian church as the Roman Catholic (universal) Church, we had Saints, the Holy writings, Holy sites, Holy rites, Holy sacrament, Holy prayers, Holy days, and anything else that these pompous bishops, and carnal universities, thought to declare Holy.  (except ... the presence of "revelation") In the early to mid 1600's, amidst civil revolution, King Charles I ... strengthened England's own version of the Christian Church with its new adopted creed book for the Church of England.   (now known as the Anglican Church)   Since that time, we have had many splits, organization of belief systems, tradition, and structure; ... none of which are recognizable in Ephesians ch.4.  (except for ... maybe  vs.18)            ____ We have shifted from the presence of the Holy Spirit to an exercise of "informational" religion with a Book, an orator, ... and an agenda. We are taught our religion, and are afraid to break with tradition. (because we have ... nothing else) Our ministry is carnal ... because it is "our" ministry. When was the last time you had a revelation from the Holy Spirit ... and acted upon it.  And, when was the last time it was accepted, and encouraged, and fitly joined with another? We now have ...confused many of our terms. "body ministry" means discussion groups, and activities.   "unity"  now means in opinion, age, or culture "spirit"  now means enthusiasm, and attitude "salvation"  now means "belief concept" accompanied  by profession, and lifestyle "abiding presence"  is now  "education", and teaching ... religious practice, and character "Word" of God is  ... now ... a Holy Book  "motivation" for sharing the Gospel,  ... ours;  not the inspiration of the Spirit.   ____ This practice of informational religion is, in our time, developing into the doctrine of democracy, which believes in "the things that are good for the group". The new secular creed centers around the doctrines of toleration, education, peace, protection, taxes, self-promotion, ... and freedom from religious imposition. Our mainstream churches are becoming more alike, as they melt into this carnality.  They are a people whose justification comes from "each other",  ... rather than from the Holy Spirit.  (see: St. John 5:30-47) Ask yourself, "does God want to raise the dead through me ?   Heal the sick, and set captives free from destructive habits ?  Cast out devils ?  Provide miracle food supply for the hungry ?   Preach the realization of His presence to lost folks ?   And, give wisdom to the unlearned ?" Don't run for a Bible verse.  Ask yourself what your heart believes.  Ask the Spirit of God to speak to you, and to give you an answer. Ask yourself,  "Have I ever had a realization of His presence?"  Or, has this information just been taught to me. Do I let my life be spoken to ...by His voice ?  Is "that important to me" ?   Is my religion carnal and of man, or do I know the presence of the Spirit of God ?   Do I have a calling, a part to play, a vocation ? ____ Forbearing One Another  (a New Idea) "With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;  endeavoring to keep the unity of the  Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as you are called in one hope of your calling;  one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all,  who is above all, and through all, and  in you all."                                            - Ephesians 4:2-6 The idea of forbearing one another is a strange but important aspect of our fellowship in the body of Christ.  (it is designed to hold "His habitation") Coming from the Greek word "ane'chomai", meaning to "hold up against", even to oppose (ana).   Forbearing of one another keeps the household safe from carnal expectancy, and encourages Spiritual expectancy;  and even brings forth the "larger expression" of the  Spiritual revelation. It's not about winning, being accepted, or being popular.  It's about ministering in love.  (by the Holy Spirit) This is the place where we express the intent of God's Spirit clearly (without agenda) and with the ability that He does give to us. (Vs.7 - the "gift of Christ" ... is the "revelation") The Spiritual Habitation is built sometimes without our immediate understanding of how, and why, things happen the way they do.  Sometimes, we are discouraged, and sometimes we are encouraged;  but our lives and ministries are in Him, and we are ministered to by one another ... in His household. Because we have been raised in an informational type of religion, rather than in the experience of revelation, it is a challenge for us to express obedience to the Spirit of God in a way that is  ... not just "opinion". When God speaks to us, it is not just to inform our mind, and draw our applause:  but rather so that we can fulfill the hope of His calling.    This is done through active faith; and obedience to the Spirit  ...  is important. The way we look at "scriptural writings" will change.  We will realize that we are reconciled to God,  ... not to a book of scriptures. We are reconciled to God, ... not to Jesus. Who was Jesus ?   He was the expression of God's grace and truth.   (St. John ch.1 - "through" his ministry  we are reconciled) This eternal expression of the revelation of God in Christ is what we live in, and abide in. We live in this light,  ... this revelation of the Holy Spirit. All of our ideas of human achievement, or failure, stop at the revelation, ... and God's Spirit Word.   The laws of Karma that say we reap what we sow ... no longer are in effect in the judgment of God's Kingdom. In our service, we become dumb before God's eternal purpose ... that the hope of His callings might be revealed ... as we answer only to the voice of His Spirit. The apostle Paul said,   .... "For the love of Christ constrains us;  because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then all were dead.  And in that he died for all, they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto Him that died for them, and rose again.  (the way of the Gospel) From now on, we know no man after the flesh:  even though we have known Christ after the flesh, ... from now on, we know Him no more.  (like that) Therefore,  ... if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature;  old things are passed away;  behold all things are become new. And all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and has given to us  the ministry of reconciliation;    (it's like this),  ... that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them.  And now, (He has) committed unto us the "word of reconciliation". Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did "call to you" by us.  We pray you in Christ's stead,  ... be you reconciled to God. For He has made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.   We then, as workers together with him, beseech you that you receive not the "grace" of God  ...  in vain.   Behold, now is the "accepted time", ... the day of salvation." - 2 Corinthians 5:14-21, ch.6	Pgs 45 - 68

Chapter three
	The Bible An important Chapter ...   The Bible, as we know it, is the combination of various writings that the early Roman Catholic Church decided to consider holy, and acceptable to teach from in their churches. To give a quick background of the early Christian Church, it is proper to note that from the time of the outpouring of the Holy Ghost in Jerusalem (Acts ch.2), and for the next couple of decades, people were rapidly coming to know the presence of the "light" of the Gospel. The first major organized council that we notice took place in Jerusalem (about 49 AD), where the apostles agreed to release themselves, and the church, from the Torah and Jewish ritual;  and recognize Gentile converts.  (Acts 15)   The key testimony from this council was that, "it seemed good to the Holy Ghost".  (vs.28)   Much of the conversation at the council was also centered around the "fulfillment" of the former prophetic writings.  (vs.15) The foundation in this first council was the recognition of the "work of the Holy Ghost" in both the harvesting, and healing, of people, and in His placing of "ministry gifts". 1. It seemed good to the Holy Ghost    2. It fulfills prophecy   3. Available testimony of Holy Ghost ministry, and  works.   4. Recognition of Spiritually gifted men, present. At the Acts 15 council, it was decided to write letters to the Gentile churches of Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia.  (vs.23) It is from similar correspondence to these letters that we have saved many other such writings that we still read today.  (eg. Romans, Corinthians, Galatians, etc.) In the first four centuries, it is accepted that at least 156 such writings were being circulated amongst the Christian groups. (we now know these New Testament writings as the Muratorian Canon)   ____ From about 145 A.D. to 258 A.D. we have a record of the organized councils meeting in Carthage, N. Africa. It is from this period, that a recognizable shift took place in the organized Christian Church.  (as we have come to know it) At the first of these councils ... it was discussed what to do with people that deserted in time of persecution (lapsi's):  and whether or not they should be accepted back into the fellowship of the church. It was during these early councils that issues like "water baptism" were discussed.   Would this organized group of Bishops recognize that someone had been baptized ... if they hadn't been baptized by a bishop of the "organized" church ? Other religious "rites" such as the "Eucharist", and other traditions, were determined to be "holy", or not.  The tradition of the church was quickly coming together.                    By 313 A.D. the new Roman Emperor, Constantine, was ready to declare this "organized" Christian Church to be the Roman Catholic Church,  and further refining was on its way.     (catholic - means universal) Political influence was brought to the Church, and now further demand was instituted. In 325 A.D., Constantine, and the Bishops, organized the Council of Nicea.  It was at this council that the Nicene Creed was formulated, ... which would dictate what would be true, and what would be false. In 381 A.D., at the first Council of Constantinople, belief in the Holy Spirit was added to the Nicene Creed. By 397 A.D., at a Council in Carthage, it was decided that the writings that we have in the Bible today would be the canon of scripture. (the "accepted" Holy  writings)   What we are seeing is an "organized group" of people creating standards, and laws of the group.  This is not too strange in and of itself: but in the context of the Gospel, nothing works without the Spirit of God directing. (daily) And so, faith moved from being "obedient" to the word of God, found in His Spirit,  ... to "intellectual" faith found in the creed and tradition of the Church. Now, this group had come full circle ... back to the place where the Jewish Religion was during the time of Jesus, as He confronted the Pharisees with the Gospel.    A people who practiced religion, but didn't know God. By now, we have all kinds of days, seasons, rituals, creeds, prayers, people, and writings, declared to be Holy by this organized group. ____ By the 13th century, popular church writers were not only referring to the accepted canon of scriptures as divine, but began to change this body of accepted scriptures to singular titles (eg. the "Bible");  giving the implication of "one utterance" of God, rather than a multitude of prophetic voices speaking for Him.  It was now becoming the Word of God. (final)    And now, it became important which version you had of this Holy Book, and which creed you followed. By the time of the 17th and 18th centuries many other countries had adopted Christianity as their "national" religion;  and so, we have a variety of politically influenced versions of Church creed, ... and tradition. (pause) At this point, it is a must that we slow down and try to come back to a place of  openness. After all, it's not tradition that is the topic of discussion, but rather ... "carnality". There are too many traditions and beliefs for us to follow up on at this moment;  but I would remind you that it is of utmost importance to see through all of this "man-made" piety, and return to the voice of God's Spirit.  It's either carnal: or  it's  Spiritual. ____ Is it wrong  ...  to have a "Book" ? Moses - wrote "the Book of the Covenant".  (Exodus 24:3-8)  He also read it to the people. (Exodus 21-23) Joshua - wrote a covenant prayer of  obedience from the  people, and entered  it into  the "Book of the Law".  (Joshua 24:24-27) Samuel - wrote in a book, the Word of the Lord pertaining to the Kingdom of Israel.   (1 Samuel 10:25) * But, the above situations all happened in the prophetic settings of ..."thus saith the LORD". (read the chapters) Jesus - referred to Scripture in St. Luke ch.4;  also, in the wilderness temptation (St. Matthew ch.4), and again St. Matthew 19:4, and ch.22:29. * when answering Satan,  Jesus said,  "man shall not live by bread alone,  ... but, by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.  (St. Matthew 4:4) Paul - exhorted Timothy to be able to "rightly divide the word of truth" (logos), ...  and, that  the holy scriptures were able to make him wise unto salvation ...through faith which is in Christ Jesus.  As well, he told Timothy that all scripture is given by inspiration of God, ... is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, ... for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, completely furnished unto all good works.  (2 Timothy  2:15, 3:14-17) * But ... When Paul began this letter to Timothy, he told him to "stir up the gift of God,  which is in you by the putting on of my hands;  ...  the Holy Ghost which dwells in us".   (2 Timothy 1:6, 2:14)                                                             John - was told to "write in a book, the things which he saw (of the Lord),  and send it to the churches of Asia".  (Revelation1:10,11) * John said that he "bare record of the Word of God, and of  the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw"  (Revelation 1:2,3) There are many other places recorded throughout Scripture that refer to God's servants being familiar with the "writings" of the other servants of God. Daniel 10:21, St. Mark 12:10, 15:28, Romans 1:2, 1 Corinthians 15:3,4,  2 Peter 3:15,16,  Acts 1:16,  1 Timothy 5:18,  James 4:5, 1 Peter 2:6 Over 60 times in our New Testament writings it is recorded that the  "scriptures must be fulfilled". But, we should also note, that our Bible does not contain many of the scriptures that these men of God are referring to. While some of the "prophets of old" are recognizable such as Joel, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Samuel, and others, ... much of the Scripture (Law and Prophets) that the early apostles and Jesus referred to were of the Jewish pre-Mishna discussions, pre-Halakik Law, as well as the Book of Enoch, and others. After reading the Book of Enoch, it is plain to see how much influence those writings had on the early apostles, and Jesus.  We see not only many direct quotes, but also, many familiar descriptions, and titles.  (walk in the light, Son of man, "four living creatures round about the throne", "clothed in white raiment",  etc.) Some of the other obvious writings that we don't have in our Bible are referred to in Acts 15:23  (briefly described letters), Colossians 4:16  (the Laodicean epistle), ... and others. When the Dead Sea scrolls were discovered in 1947, many of our Old Testament scriptures were there amongst them. Since that time other discoveries have brought to light more of these ancient scriptures that give us evidence as to what the apostles and Jesus were "referring to" as scripture during their time period. These "writings" were studied, respected, and taught from. (just as Jesus called for the Isaiah Scroll, to read from in St. Luke 4:16-21) ____ So, do we hold the scriptures as "valuable", and sacred ? Of course we do.  For in them we find the agreement of the prophets, and the record of the word of the Spirit of God,  ... and the promise of our Salvation. But, they were never put into one Book, and dubbed "Word of God".  (final). Am I happy that I have a Bible ?  Yes, I am.   But, if I let these writings be a  "substitute" in my life for the voice of the Spirit of God, ... then it becomes a detriment to my stewardship ... before God.   (Revelation 2:7) Were the Old Testament prophets the final Word of God ?  No, they weren't.  This is why it is so important to understand, and believe in, ... the fulfillment of Word.  We are that fulfillment ... in "our day", as we walk in the Spirit. (Acts 2:1-40, Romans ch.8) ____ You can group several of the ancient prophetic scriptures together, and hold them up as the Holy Word of God (final),  ... but it is not. You can group several epistles of the apostle Paul together, and hold them up as the Holy Word of God (final), but they are not. You can group 66 selected "writings" together into one book, and add a church Creed, some prayers, and some holidays, and hold it up as the Holy Word of God (final), ... but it is not. The idea of the Bible being the final Word of God is a "creed" idea, ... similar to that of the Jewish religion. It's a misconception of faith, and leaves no room for the gospel. ____ I would ask you, "if someone prophesies, ...is that the Word of God" ? If the Holy Ghost gives a person a dream, or a vision, is that ... the Word of God ? The "creed" idea does not build faith, ... it robs it. There is One who is the Word of God, and He is ever present with you, and shall be in you.  He is the Spirit of God:  the Spirit of truth. This is the Gospel of Christ ... that the prophets spoke of. (let's have a look)   ...  This is "that" (are you ready?) "But Peter, standing up with the eleven,  ... lifted up his voice, and said unto them, ... Hearken to my words: This is that ... which was spoken by the prophet Joel; It shall come to pass in the last days, says God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh:  and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: And on My servants, and on My handmaidens, I will pour out in those days of My Spirit;  and they shall prophesy: and it shall come to pass, that whosoever  shall call on the name of the Lord ... shall be saved. Then Peter said to them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and you shall receive the gift of  the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify, and exhort, saying, Save yourself from this untoward generation." - Acts ch. 2 *Peter's voice  attests  to the "fulfillment" of  the prophecy of Joel ch.2.        ___   "And, Jesus went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read. And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Isaiah.  And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written,  ... The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He has anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor, He has sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord. And he closed the book, gave it to the minister, and sat down.  And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture ... fulfilled in your ears." - St. Luke 4:16-21 *Jesus' voice attests to the fulfillment of the prophecy of Isaiah ch.61 ___ During the time of the early church, when the letters were written to the various groups, it was a testimony of the Spirit's ministry through the apostles and prophets. (Ephesians 2:16, or 17-22) They knew the foundation of "the habitation of God". (Ephesians 4:11-16, not scripture, but ministry) Now, we have carnal instructors reading a Bible Study series about something from other past correspondence: not discerning the Body of Christ.                                                                             Scriptural Understanding (and "fulfillment")    Joel, and  Acts  ... If you read the writings of the prophet Joel, and then, the first half of the Book of Acts, you will see a much clearer understanding of the intention of the ministry of the Holy Spirit.  (upon the people)  We are told in scriptures that the Holy Spirit gives us a foretaste of the Glory of God, reveals truth to us, and helps us.  The intended anointing of the Holy Spirit is earthly. When we see this truth, first in the writings of Joel, and then in the Book of Acts, we begin to understand that there is no Gospel ... apart from His anointing.  It is He that will bear witness to our ministry in the records of Heaven ... about our cooperation with Him in this earth.  (See: 1 John 5:7)         Isaiah, and the Gospels If you read the Book of Isaiah, and then read the Gospels, (especially John and Luke), you will understand the references to "light" in John's writings, and Luke's reference to Jesus in the synagogue.  (St. Luke 4:16-21)    Most of the preaching of the Gospel, and ministry of the Holy Spirit, is directed toward earthly restoration of people,  here and now. Example:   St. John 3:16  is not about Jesus dying on the cross so that  someone can go to heaven;   it's rather about man's earthly relationship to the "light", and to the "life" of the Spirit, and Word, which is eternal (compare vs.19-21) See also: Paul's letter (1 Corinthians 11:23 -12:31) Communion and Holy Spirit ministry gifts.	Pgs 69 - 85

Chapter four
	Spiritual Gifts   Spiritual gifts are an exciting topic to discuss, for they are the way that God has chosen to work with His people, to perform His intent. I have heard people try to teach about them, even though they didn't know the Spirit. I have heard others try to explain them as talents, and abilities,  ... and that pretty much misses it. But, without going too far into the subject, I would like to talk about what we see "going on" in the name of Spiritual gifts. An Important Issue The exercise of these gifts is born out of  "zero-ness", or neutrality.  These gifts actually are of the Spirit of God. The delicate sensitivity to the Spirit comes with the repentance, and new birth of the Word;  but it is possible for God to use anyone, or anything, at any time, for He does whatever He wills. When we think that we have it all figured out, that is the time that carnality sneaks in.  When we are open to His promptings, and do in faith what He is telling us to do, then it is, that we are ministering in His name.   (1 Peter 4:10,11)            When Someone Prophesies In the historical scriptures, we read about prophets of God, false prophets, and prophets that were gifted, but not recognized by the Jewish people. There has always been gifted prophets mingling about amongst the people, but they have not all exercised their faith within the message flow of the Christian Gospel. When someone prophesies in the Name of Christ, it is for the specific purposes of the redeeming call of the Gospel of Christ. This is why it is so important that when we say we are ministering in the Name of Christ,  ... that we actually have a "present tense" word of the Holy Spirit, and do actually know His intent. But, I do have a question for some of the (practicing) folk. Is it necessary to dress up in knickers, and 17th century attire, ... so that we can prophesy ? If you answered, No, then you are probably right. So then, why is it ... that when our bold brother, or sister, prophesies, that we hear all of these "old English" terms ? Thus saith the Lord.  Thou shalt.  Ye. Thy.  etc. Is the Holy Ghost an Englishman ?   Does He prefer old English over our modern English ? We are people of tradition.  That's why I have given this discussion on Carnality the sub-title,  ...  "Establishing the Norm". In my experience of receiving, and delivering, prophetic word, I have found some things that seem to be repetitive, but they are definitely not traditional. Often the Holy Spirit has used words that I have had to look up in the dictionary. Sometimes, He talks to me about ideas that I am unfamiliar with, ... until further explanation. I have noticed a vastness of wisdom often,  that has unfolded gradually into "awesomeness". Sometimes, I have witnessed demonstrative word that was totally not understood ... until later. The Lady from Texas I was a young minister traveling in the Northern States of the U.S.A.  In one of my gatherings (in Minnesota), there was a line of people who had come to be ministered to.  A middle aged lady, (about three people away), was there waiting her turn for this preacher to tell her a personal word from the Lord.            As I approached the woman, the Holy Spirit said to me, "Keep moving.  Go on to the next person.  Pass her on by". Well,  ... I did.   And, as I finished ministering to that next person, I looked,  ... and there she was again. The Holy Spirit said to me,  "Keep moving.  Go on to the next person;  ... pass her on by". Immediately, the thought that raced through my mind was that I could excuse the first time, ... but now, I would just appear to be rude. Well, I did.  And as I finished ministering to that next person, I looked, ... and there she was again. This kept happening.  And after what seemed like about twenty minutes, ... I stopped, and looked at her. And the sweetest, most fatherly, word from the Holy Spirit came forth, and moved upon her.  It was the most heavenly instruction on "patience" for her ... that I can ever remember sharing with anyone. What the Holy Spirit was doing was preparing her heart and mind for the message that He was about to give to her.  It would have been interesting to know what was going on in her mind during that time,  and how she would remember that Word from the LORD, later. ____ Recently, I was involved in a meeting, where I was encouraging people to help me to minister to people. We were praying for the sick, and the depressed, and prophesying to people. I kept encouraging people to get involved.   And as I did, people were responding in faith, and ministering to others. One young girl in her mid twenties came forward to be ministered to.  And, as she stood in anticipation, the Spirit of the LORD began to move upon others with urgency of prayer and insight. One fellow, at the back of the room, felt a certain word of insight and message beginning to form in his spirit for her.  And as he pondered this, someone else stepped in and began to "pray" this same word over her.   Now, I want to mention at this time, that many of these people had not met each other prior, and didn't know one another; but obviously something greater was about to become evident;  and "faith was in the house". I have told you this part of the story to show you that the Holy Spirit moves around amongst the group, and uses His people to bring forth a ministry that is nothing less than life giving,  if we will let Him. As the gentleman prayed a prayer of insight, and as the other fellow in the back of the room was having his own faith and confidence restored,  ... something else was about to happen. There was an older gentleman, standing with his wife, near to the front row of the group. And, as the first gentleman finished praying for the girl, the older gentleman  ... pushed his way through the crowd, and stood silent ... in front of the young lady. He didn't know what to do.  He didn't know what to say.  He just knew ... that he was supposed to be there. He bowed his head, and began to pray earnestly for missions, and how that we needed more missionaries.  His burden grew ... as he led this group to call upon the Lord. When he was done ... he silently turned around and went back to his seat, and the ministering went on. I could tell you about more events that happened in that meeting, ...  but I want to finish this story for you. After the meeting was over people began to mingle and talk. The young lady came to me to introduce herself, and tell me her story. Here she was, ... a young missionary, who had just returned from the Netherlands only three weeks prior.             She was confused, and discouraged, ... and was looking for direction.  She had come to the event because a friend had brought her. Needless to say, ... I was awestruck at the ministry of the Holy Spirit, and how that these people were right in the middle ... of her need. I could just picture the older gentleman standing in front of her, ... not knowing why he was there, and not knowing why he was to lead out in a burdened prayer ... for missions. They didn't know each other, ... but God knew;  and so did I, for I had read his book, ... his life's story of his own missionary work in the darkness of Africa. What a profound testimony to her when she found out.  What a loving opportunity for him, as God sent him to minister to the new generation of missionary. Does God know ? Do you understand now ... why our carnality, in the name of religion, ... is so sickening, ... and wrong ? Do you see, ... how we miss the very things that God wants to do by His Spirit, because of our own safe traditional agenda ? Do we understand ... what the Gospel of Christ is ?                  Ministry    Not long ago, in a gathering, I was ministering to the people, to encourage their faith, and bring blessing to their lives. As I looked across the crowd, the Holy Spirit directed me to look several rows back to a person that I really couldn't see ... because of the people in the front. I moved in that direction, and called a young lady to come forward.  She came, and I directed her to stand to my left: and I proceeded to minister to the folks that had either come with needs, ... or that I was calling out of the crowd. Not knowing why I called her forward, I felt that soon it would become evident, and so I obediently kept right on ministering to others. After several folks had been prayed for, or had been given a word of prophecy, ... the Holy Spirit told me to get her involved.  So I did.  When we reached the next person, I got her to lay her hands upon that person, and pray.  And so, we ministered to person, after person. After the meeting was over, she came and thanked me, and introduced herself to me.  She was a youth leader ... from some particular church in the city. I couldn't help but think ... how wise the Holy Spirit is; and be amazed at how He was building His Kingdom. ____ We have been encouraged to use our own wisdom.  And now, we are accustomed to doing that,  ...  and we have even exercised bravery in it. We have experienced hurt, and we know people who have experienced hurt.  We teach them to forgive, and we try to stay away from the tendency to blame. We think that we know the right answers.  We have learned, and we are traditional.  May God forgive us. We have all seen the sensationalism that is passed off as the power of God.  The show ... that destroys genuine faith, and works destruction in the Spiritual habitation of God.	Pgs 86 - 99

Chapter five
	the Change Intent ...   I want to talk about doing:  ... but, there is something better than the "belief of doing". God "is".  He is the I am.  He is not answerable to perform  anything. We must first of all recognize Him, ... that He is.  Our struggling and contention with God must die.    (Job ch.13) We need to see the difference between the self-experience in the Garden of Eden, ... and the God-experience, in the Garden of Gethsemane. Catering to our desires, and to the "prancing ego" of man's ideas and carnality, ... has to end. "He that loses his life for My sake, shall find it." Our expression of life needs to become dependant upon ... the Spirit of His "Presence".  Our character changes to agree with the character of His Spirit. Our decision-making process ... needs to change.  Our expectations ... do not stay the same. We need to stop preaching about "covenant", and our good works to live up to our part;  and come to realize that without obedient Spiritual expression through us ... we are functioning in "carnality", and sin.            In the Garden of Eden, (Genesis 3), we are told that Adam and Eve had the eyes of their understanding opened to the governing law of ... defining good, and evil. This "enlightenment" brought about the struggle; the deadly, and hopeless struggle, between the word of God, and the ambitious power of the mind. Each of us, in our daily lives, face this opportunity to do things that we are not asked to do by the Spirit of God.  The further away from abiding in the presence of the Spirit we are, ... the more confusing our lives become.  (It's hard to relate to Spiritual direction  on a carnal road) The apostle Paul said, that even while he was giving his life to the ministry of the Gospel, and obedience to the Holy Spirit, ... he struggled with these carnal ideas. (read: Romans chs.7,8) Any of us can rush into a mistake, but that is not the foundation of our testimony.  It is necessary to stop, and respectfully review our situation. We get caught up in the "ambition" of doing things for God.  We may start out with spiritual leading and good intention: ... but then self-prowess and desire set in.  (then, bickerings, disappointments, ... and struggle)   This "doing" of ours comes under judgment; and the power-struggle ... begins. I want to remind you that the first recorded murder in history was a contention over religion.  (Genesis ch.4) The serpent also said, "you will be as gods,  knowing the difference between good, and evil".  You will have the power to govern ... as a god.   (Genesis ch.3)          One can teach a carnal person all the lessons of religion, and you will just improve the effectiveness of their carnality, and give them all the more reason to believe that they are in a position to judge. ____ In the Garden of Gethsemane, we see the struggling of the Gospel of Christ ... in the soul of a man.  (St. Mark 14:32-42) There were many Jewish men called Jesus;  but, here we see the Spirit of Christ in action.  It is out of this struggle that the Christ Gospel grows. It is the travail against the human conditioning of self-propagation: ... the travail against "the curse". It's the unquestioning submission to the Shammah experience of desolation.  It is the finding of God's power, and presence, in the midst of  "nothingness". It's the ushering in of the Kingdom of God,  the place where God's Spirit rules ... here, and now. Conclusion "Being", ... is temporal.  (present tense) The destiny of "being" is the temporal fusion of the soul with God.  The objective is always right, and that's what righteousness is all about.            The birth of a soul is like the sperm of the earth, ... as it finds itself swimming through this "liquid atmosphere of fertile time";  seeking to fuse with the "egg of Life", and immortality. Many perish ... along the way.  But, there is one great name, given among men, whereby the Spirit of God recognizes "oneness"; and that is the name of the Christ. (the testimony to the expressed  "Word of God" - St. John ch.1) This word of God is the great "anointing of equality": the merging of oneness with God. The death to the curse of self-propagation ... and the regeneration of the desperate soul, ... is what this desired Spiritual expression of being is. "That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after Him, and find Him, though He be not far from every one of us.  For in Him, we live, and move, and have our being".                        - Acts 17:27,28 "Being", has everything to do with grace, and truth.  (St. John 1:16,17) "Doing", is that wicked watchword of the just, and the unjust.  Its worth is found in the legal system. ____ "For to him that knows to do good, and does it not, to him it is sin".  (this is ... Spiritual knowledge) - James 4:17 * - for "relationship now", look at  James 4:5-10,  and Psalms 72:1-8    * Self- Protection The first reference to "street smarts" in history is found in Genesis 3:7,8. The record says that their "eyes were opened", ... they saw only disdain and nakedness and they immediately got busy and made aprons to cover (also translated "to protect") themselves: ... and then, they hid themselves. When the scripture refers to the serpent (Heb. "Hiss"), saying that the fruit of the Tree would make them "wise", ... it has the meaning of  wary, self-protective, assertive-consideration, circumspect. This is where our own "protective consideration" began.  (ie. "to become as a god", and wise  - Genesis 3:5,6) The message was to wisely separate yourself from all overpowering authority, ... eventually to become calloused in your imagination;  having a heart of trouble and worry, ... eventually lashing out to destroy others.  (by the next generation we have "murder" - Genesis ch.4) * Self-Righteousness "I do what I think is right, ... and that's the important thing".    ( ... ever heard that ? ) Study: Genesis 6:5, Isaiah 53:6, Jeremiah 16:12, Malachi 2:17, Romans 3:1-6, ch.3,4,5,6, Proverbs 14:12 ____ Daily Survival is Not Enough "Man shall not live by bread alone,  but by every word  that proceeds out of the mouth of God." - St. Matthew 4:4                                                           ... we are called to obedience, and to the intent of God	Pgs 100 - 108

Chapter six
	the Loss   A Message to God's People "My people have changed their glory for that which does not profit. For My people have committed two evils;  they have forsaken Me, the  fountain of  "Living Waters";  and they have hewed them out cisterns, ... broken cisterns, that can hold no water."                                          - Jeremiah 2:11,13                                       The "church" should never be understood as a "philosophy", or a  "way of life".  Never in scripture was it ever presented that way. It has been presented as a Spiritual body of Christ (Gk. Christos -the anointed). It has been presented as a new "birth" into the Kingdom of God. There are actually things going on while you are moving forward.  This Kingdom is far greater than just you and me.  God is moving upon His intent with His Spirit, and His angelic host.  He makes the "seed" to grow, and His Creation to express. This is not a philosophy. This is a "new birth". This is a "new life".  This is the righteousness that is of faith:  ... not religion, nor morality. You can't teach people to be righteous:  but, you can challenge them to "hear God", ... and to "obey". We are His creatures. (His offspring)  We are born of His Spirit, ... and His "intent".   (read: Ephesians 6:10-18, Romans ch.4) "For we worship God in the Spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence  in the flesh. I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord:  that I may win Christ, and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ.  The Righteousness which is of God by faith:  that I may know Him, and the Power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable to His death.  God shall reveal  ... even this  unto you." - Philippians ch.3 _____                           A lesson in Handling "new" Spiritual Truth When we are in a situation where we are experiencing the new Spiritual enlightenment of the truth of the Gospel, we are challenged to hold dearly the prize, and to "press forward", ... and walk in this "new light". Although the Gospel of Christ has never been the norm in religious settings, nor in the self-serving societies of this world;  still our profound Christ enthusiasm gives way to righteous indignation (a "hanging loose"), and is gracious, and powerful to build the Kingdom of God. But, we have also seen profound enthusiasm give way to disappointment, impatience, criticalness,  judgmentalism, bitterness, wrath,  ... and finally,  liberalism.   (but, Stop !  don't judge) It is at this point of wrath, and bitterness, that we can experience desolation,  ... which is the birth-place of the Spirit of God with all of His gracious character, new ideas, vision, faith, and ministry expectation.  (we need to  hear, and obey  - He  will bless)                        Remember the words of Jesus  ... "And you shall be betrayed, both by parents, ... brethren and kinsfolk, and friends;  and you shall be hated of all men for my name's sake. But, ... in your "patience", you possess your souls.  I will give you wisdom, ... which all of your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay, nor resist."                                           - St. Luke 21:15-19 Growing with God We grow in grace, and knowledge, and active patience. It is at the point of giving up that we can actually be born of His Spirit, and grow in grace, and in His peace.  It's at this point, that we can find direction, and attitude, for our deeds.       This is His righteousness. First, the truth, and then the handling of the truth. If this truth experience is born of God's Spirit in you, then in His timing, you will find the carrying of it much easier. We are not talking about study, or social education, but rather, His illumination of the truth of  righteousness.          *Remember:   God builds His Spiritual Kingdom, by Spiritual revelation.  People of His Kingdom are born Spiritually. We can sow the seed as God's Spirit directs, but it grows ... through the person's "spiritual realization". *Read: 1 Peter 3:8-22, Romans ch. 2, 1 Timothy ch.1,   2 Peter ch.3,   2 Corinthians ch.6,  2 Timothy 2:16-26 ____ "Wherein in times past you walked according to the course of this world, and were by nature children of wrath, even as others.   But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, has quickened us together with Christ, ... that in ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace ... in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are you saved ... through faith;  and that not of yourselves;  ... it is the gift of God;  not of works, lest any man should boast."      - Ephesians ch.2 ____ Serving the LORD   Can you imagine ... God creating the beautiful Garden of Eden;  moving Adam and Eve into it,  ... and then, giving them a "job description". The first period of time goes by, and things are so beautiful that all they can talk about is how wonderful everything is. Eve is starting to enjoy it, and so is Adam;  and new fantastic discoveries are being made every day.   God wants to talk to them,  ... but they are "slipping away". First, ... there's that plan for the new house.  (and they have to build  that "after hours") And then, there's that new road that's going to run right down to the river. Eve has one idea.  Adam has another.  And so, ... the bickering goes on. Social interaction, ambition, persuasiveness, salesmanship, self-righteousness, good works, power,  and ... hurt And then, there's that lazy son that leans up against the side of the barn with a straw in his mouth, and brags about all the things that his family has done.  (of course he includes himself  in that picture) Are they doing God's work ?  Yes.   Then, why the confusion ? They are confused because they ... lost their "vision".  (of  belonging) They lost the realization that we belong to God, and that we are created for His pleasure and purpose. That's more important than our ability to exercise power, do good works, or even to exercise "spiritual gifts". The realization of oneness had slipped away.  (St. John chs.14,15) Be Careful ...                          Be Careful.  Shifting our attention to what we are "doing", and rejoicing in that, ... is a lead- in to self-righteousness;  and it's easy to lose our fellowship with the Father.  (and the "Kristos",  which gives us the heart for  "reconciliation" ministry) Jesus said, as He sent out 70 disciples for the first time,    ...     "The Harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few, pray that the Lord of the Harvest will send forth laborers  into His Harvest. Behold I send you forth as lambs among wolves.  Heal the sick that are therein;  and say unto them, "The Kingdom of God is come near to you". He that hears you, hears me.  He that despises you despises me,  and  Him that sent me.             later ... The seventy returned with joy, saying,  "Lord, even the devils ... are subject unto us through your name". Jesus said to them, "Yes, I beheld Satan, as lightening fall from heaven,  ... behold, I give unto you Power. *But, ... don't rejoice that the spirits are subject unto you;  but rather, that your names are written in Heaven". (you belong) - St. Luke 10:1-2 *These things that I am speaking of ... come through revelation  - Vs.21-24                                                                                 The Apostle Paul wrote to the Christians at Philipi, ... as to how they should be. He discussed his missionary work, Christian fellowship, and servitude; ... but, then he said,     "Finally, ...my brethren, ... rejoice in the Lord" (Philippians 3:1) "Rejoice   ...   in  the Lord  ... always ... " (Philippians 4:4) ____                      Keeping our eyes off "ourselves" Be careful, not to lower your eyes from "Who your source is".  The more that you are thankful for His workings, and His presence, the more your confidence in Him will be strengthened;  and the more you will learn from Him.      (Just out of interest ...) Do you remember ... where God planted the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil ?  The Testimony. Your right!   In the midst of the beautiful Garden of Eden, where His people were working, and where He had fellowship with them. How easy it is to slip into the judging mode rather than to stay in the patient "Spiritual ministry" mode. The pressures of the group, and the formality, the momentum, and the "need", are all there waiting to be challenged by "Spiritual" ministry, so that the group can be influenced. But remember, there is the opposite effect as well, where the stewards of God are being challenged to get caught up with "what they see",  ... and "self-righteousness". Remember, ... the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil is not far away. Being a good judge is encouraged by some, and popular for others.  It's the way to "become as a god", and it's as close to you ... as where you are.                    It's our natural tendency to be concerned for "ourselves".  As long as we live on this earth this natural tendency will remain with us. We are the offspring of many generations of humanity, and are entrenched in what comes natural. All we have, (when it gets right down to it), is the tendency to "do the best that we can" (in our circumstance), and reach for more education, and possibly become a "little critical of the way things happen". Other than that, we try to do as good as the next person. *This is the "lost" condition of the human race that is spoken of throughout the scriptures.  (the one condition that we don't want) ____ We must remember that the "intent" of the Gospel message is the "reconciling" of God and man:  not through man's ambition, ... but through "Spiritual" work. The realization that we are at one with God is more important than our ability to exercise power, and even "spiritual gifts". We are "born again" through desolation to self, and the human kingdom; ... and we are made alive to God's Kingdom, consciously, by His  Spirit. * See:  Romans ch.5, 1 Corinthians ch.15, 1 John ch.2,  Philippians 2:13 ____                         I went to a church that was teaching a judgment gospel, and that offered a carnal ticket ... to get saved. The way it goes is that Jesus was a  "sacrifice" offered for you. Now, if you go through the initiation process, and pray the "sinner's prayer",  ... you are saved.   (like circumcision)  * Problem:   ...  still no relationship with the Spirit of God. The Christ gospel is being misunderstood, and misrepresented. The erroneous message is about the ten commandments, and how you broke one of them;  ... so now, you should die, and go to hell. But wait, ... we have a substitute.   Jesus. So, you pray and acknowledge. But, the problem is that you are still unreconciled, unregenerate, and ..."out of touch" with the Spirit of God. ____ "Not everyone that says unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the Kingdom of heaven:   but he that does the will of the Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day,  Lord, Lord,  have we not prophesied in your name ?   And in your name have cast out devils ?   And in your name have done many wonderful works ? And then, I will profess unto them,  I never knew you:  depart from me, you that work iniquity." - St. Matthew 7:21-23	Pgs 109 - 136

Chapter seven
	and "You" It is important for us to understand that our values, and our customs, are learned.  From the time that we are children a vision is being implanted into us, and adjusted regularly by people and circumstance; and we follow through with decisive action.   But, once we achieve the lifestyle of that vision that we have had planted within us, then sure enough, somebody comes along and challenges it.  That's all part of being involved in a human society. You are an individual. There is no one else that is quite like you; and just as surely as Adam and Eve were put on this earth as individuals,  ... so are "you". The choices that one makes do write the story of one's life. These choices are either born out of God's Spirit, ... or out of human vision. ____ Long ago, in a Jewish "society", on one particular day, a rich young businessman was listening to a very interesting and controversial Spiritual teacher named Jesus. This Jewish society that he lived in was noted for "religious life-style", and they took pride in the fact that they were God's chosen people. After listening for some time as Jesus challenged these folks about their understanding of God's ways, the young man approached Jesus.   (St. Luke ch.17,18)            "The young man asked Jesus,  "Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life ? Jesus said to him, Why do you call me good ?   There is only one that is good, and that is God.  (the source of Good)    You know the commandments.  Do not commit adultery.  Do not kill.  Do not steal.  Do not bear false witness. Honor your father, and your mother. The young man said,  All of these things  I have kept from my youth up. Then Jesus said, Yet, you lack "one thing", go and sell all that you have, and give the proceeds to the poor,  and you'll have treasure in heaven, and then, come and follow me.    (oh, oh  ... challenge to  Self kingdom) And when the young man heard this he was very sorrowful:  for he was very rich.  And, when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, how hardly shall they that have riches enter into the Kingdom of God.  It is easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye, than for a rich man to enter into the Kingdom of God. When the people heard it, they asked,  "Who then can be saved ?"   Jesus answered, the things that are impossible with man, are possible with God." (St. Luke ch.17,18, Spiritual "new birth") Remember ... Once we achieve the "lifestyle" ... of that vision that we have had planted within us, then sure enough, somebody comes along and challenges it. The point that I want you to see is that "you" are an individual, and there is no one else that is quite like "you". The "choices" that you make do write the story of your life. These choices are either born out of God's Spirit, or out of human vision.       The premise of "human righteousness" is born out of the human promotion of "self".  (Genesis 3:5) The norm that a society relaxes into comes to be known as righteousness within a particular group of people. Giving one's self to God quite often only means "giving one's self" to the norm of that particular learned social structure. No matter how we look at it, the activity is based upon the accepted "norm" of that group. Most of this is born out of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, (and the Law),  and is what we would call "self" righteousness, or "social conduct" religion.  (which includes "prayers and laws")  It's quite possible to live this all of your life,  and to even be found busy teaching others to do the same.   In our modern world, with the promotion of democracy, free speech, and toleration, we can even build a personal religion that suits our ambition perfectly. This self-righteousness is controlled by the human, and is of a different kingdom than "God's Kingdom". Although the written laws indicate a form of righteousness they fall short of God's righteousness. His righteousness is the present expression of His Spirit, coming forth through our obedience. Every contention of the Prophets, Jesus, or the Apostles, was that the people were keeping the law (under their own control), and not recognizing the "rulership" of God's Spirit in their daily lives.           You  Might Have to "Let Go" "Letting Go", may soon become an issue in your life. If you are understanding what we are talking about, then you will most likely be called upon to "let go" of something so that change can come forth. Every person that has ever been used by God to forward His Kingdom in this earth has had to go through this experience.  If He is the Righteous, Supreme Ruler, then we must let Him rule. There will come a time when you will feel the "call of God" upon your life and you will be asked to let some people, and things, go their way so that you might fulfill His "purpose".  You are His creation, created for His pleasure, and His purpose. The prophet, Isaiah,  ...  made this statement in Isaiah ch.61, "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me. The Lord has anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek;  He has sent me to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;  to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and  ... the day of vengeance of our God;  to comfort all that mourn;  to give unto  them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness;  that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, ... that He might be glorified. (and these people, that I am ministering to) They shall build the old wastes, they shall raise up the former desolations, and they shall repair the waste cities;  ... the desolations of many generations.      And strangers shall stand and feed your flocks, and the sons of immigrants shall be your plowmen, and vinedressers. But you ... (what an effect on a society)  ... shall be named the priests of the Lord;  men shall call you Ministers of our God.  You shall eat the riches of the human race;  and in their glory shall you boast yourselves; ... the people whom the Lord has blessed."            I ask you ... When was the last time that your religion had this kind of an effect on society in your city ? His Spirit still moves across the earth, and His righteousness is slightly different from that of the human righteousness that is born out of the testimony of religion.  (Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil) ____ Jesus told an illustrative story about a young man who looked at this "mighty creation" of God; and without any thought of God, ... ventured out to enjoy all that he could.  When he had spent all that he had on "excessive" living, a drought came to the land, and he was in need.   Now ... he thought about home. All the "classy" things he had done didn't matter anymore. He was lonely, empty, ... and at a loss. Jesus said, "He got up, and headed home" (Just to be a servant in the right place ... is sometimes better than to be the leader in a wrong place.  To walk in God's righteousness is better than the acceptance of man)                     "And when he was still a great way off his father saw him, and had   compassion on him;  ran out to meet him, hugged him, and kissed him. And the son said,  Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight,    and am no more worthy to be called your son. But the father said, bring forth the best robe, a ring, and shoes, and let's make a feast.  For my son was dead, and now is alive:  was lost, and now is found". This Story told by Jesus (St. Luke ch.15) shows the love and forgiveness of our great Creator, as He waits for us to come home to His ways.                      We can start to have a relationship with the Father, today.     ____ King David prayed: "Lord ... who shall dwell in Your presence ? He that walks uprightly, working righteousness, and speaking the truth in his, or her, heart. The Lord is the portion of my inheritance.  He maintains my lot.  I have a goodly heritage.  I will bless the Lord who has given me council,  ... and control. I have set the Lord always before me.  Because He is at my right hand, ... I shall not be moved.  Therefore, my heart is glad;  and my glory rejoices.  My flesh shall also rest in hope. You will show me the path of life.   In Your presence, is fullness of joy.  At Your right hand there are pleasures for evermore."                                                - Psalms 15,16	Pgs 137 - 145

Chapter eight
	Holy Sacrifice Chapter Eight   *It is almost impossible to understand the gospel of Christ, and what the apostles were saying to the Jews about the  Cross,  ...  without  first having a grasp of how "sin-sacrifice" has been looked upon throughout the old testament scriptures.  The Old Testament Holy Sacrifice is a mystery to be looked into. Derived from the Hebrew, "zebach", sacrifice just simply means "the slaughter". "Let him offer a male without blemish.  He shall offer it of his own voluntary will at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, before the LORD. And he shall put his hand upon the head of the burnt offering:  and it shall be accepted for him to make atonement for him. And he shall kill the bullock before the LORD;  ... flay the burnt offering, (chop it up), ... but, its inwards, and legs, shall he wash in water.  And the priest shall sprinkle the blood round about upon the altar, put fire upon the altar, lay all the body parts on the altar, and burn them to be a burnt sacrifice, a sweet savor unto the LORD." - Leviticus 1:3-9 This scripture is basically saying, that if a person were to voluntarily come before God with a "sacrificial offering", it should be a male without blemish. The man should put his hand upon the head of the "sacrifice" ... and identify with it, ... then kill it, and flay it, and offer it to be burned before the LORD.  Then, he would be absolved of his sin. (Read: Leviticus chapters 1 - 7)                                   Let's see if we can clear up some wrong ideas about the Holy "Sacrifice". - let's agree that the "sacrificial animal" is to be  (Heb."ta'miym")  that is    ( sound, complete,  integrity,  whole, truthful, undefiled ) - male - was  to be "personally" identified with by placing  your hand on its head - was to be killed, ... chopped up (with hostility) ... washed ... and burned completely  What was really happening here ? Was this the personal transference of sin from the guilty human ... to the animal, in order to obtain forgiveness from God ?     ...  let's consider this for a moment. You take an animal (that is pure), ... lay your hands on its head, then dredge up all your harshness, crookedness, selfishness, and lies, ... and say, "I transfer all of this upon this innocent victim ... right in front of you God. Now, ... I'm going to kill it, flay it, and burn it.  And then, I'm going to give it to you, God;  ... right in front of everybody.  (The once "spotless" victim, that is now "filthy", and "unholy") "Here You are God,   ...  My gift to you." You confess, "Yes, I transgressed against Your purposes for my life. I was motivated by the spirit of the world ... to serve myself and take what I could,  ... in spite of Your intent, and wishes." Really ?  Does it make any sense that one would defile and desolate such an unblemished offering, and then, present it with violence, to a loving, and Holy God; and then, as a hardened criminal, ... turn and walk away ? How can you now present this to God as something "holy"? How is this going to free someone from their sin, and gain forgiveness ? This is the misunderstood doctrine of "substitution".  Someone else paid the price for my transgression, and I presented that to God, for my forgiveness. My unblemished sacrifice is now falsely accused, is carrying my sin, and now, I am going to present this "most unholy sacrifice" to God ... for the forgiveness of my sin. While preaching this message, we somehow think that the more mean we tell the story, and the more we emphasize God's wrath,  and the more judgmental that we are:  then it is, that we are really ... preaching  the Gospel. This doctrine of substitution has been presented at the expense of the Gospel message; and has left many short of salvation, and the  "new birth" experience. Instead, there is a "me-centered", carnal message of judgment, and social conduct, being given to people to lull them into a false state of salvation; ... leaving them powerless to "know" the presence of the Spirit of God.      Have I got your attention ... now ?                      Yeah,  ... I figured so.           Up until now, our discussion about the holy sacrifice has been ... centered around the sinner,  ...and the sin. No matter how we try to "excuse" the sinner, he still is.  And the more he, or she, tries to offer a substitute,  ... the more "depraved", and horrifyingly sinful ... he, or she, becomes. The question, "how can one offer a defiled, and unholy offering to the most holy God" remains;   ... until we shift our attention away from the "sinner", and the "sin",  ... to the "holy sacrifice". It is "Most Holy", ... because it has discharged the holiest of all functions.  It has become a Sacrifice unto the LORD, ... so that someone whom God loves might be made free ... to live.  In the midst of desolation it has become fruitful unto God.       Jesus said,  (speaking of His crucifixion) "The hour is come when the Son of man should be glorified. Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abides alone;  but, if it die, it brings forth much fruit.  But for this cause, came I unto this hour.   Father, Glorify Your Name. Then, came there a Voice from heaven, saying, "I have glorified it, and will glorify it again" Jesus said, now is the judgment of this world;  and now, shall the prince of this world be cast out.  And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.  This he said, signifying what death ... he should die."                                           - St. John 12:23-50                                                  Jesus said,  (now ... speaking of His followers) "He that loves his life shall lose it; and he that is willing to (throw) his life, in this world (for Jah), shall keep it unto life eternal. If any man serve me, let Him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be.  If any man serve me, him will my Father honor".    - St. John 12:25,26 "I am the Vine, ... you are the branches.  He that abides in me, and I in him, the same brings forth much fruit;  for without me, you can do nothing.  If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, you shall ask what you will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that you bear much fruit;  so shall you be my disciples." - St. John 15:5-8   (*Read: St. John chs.14,15,16)      What we are talking about here, is not a substitution, ... but rather, the experience of identification. When the individual, referred to in ancient scriptures, brought an unblemished sacrifice unto the LORD, he was not passing off his "sin" onto the head of an animal, and then leaving as an "unrepentant" sinner.  (1 Peter 2:21-24) When this individual voluntarily came before the LORD, he was presenting the "holy sacrifice" in utter desolation, laying his hands upon its head, and "yielding into this death".  It was, after all, his sin that was being dealt with. He was experiencing the horrible consequence of sin.  But, he was also experiencing the beauty, and freedom, found in the midst of obedient desolation.   (Isaiah 53:10  "you" and "he")                     It's not ... that Jesus died in my place, ... for my sin. The picture is not understood until we look up at the "truth" of the sacrifice of the cross, and see us dying with Him in this place. It is our sin ... that is placed upon this "Holy Sacrifice". As we bow before this outstretched Savior, in "desolation", with our hands placed upon Him, in identification, it is then, that we have found "our" place of repentance, and faith. Too often, the place of "desolation" has been overlooked.  It is not to be feared.  It is the end of condemnation, and striving. We have heard far too much preaching on claiming the promises of dead letter, and far too much salesmanship on how God can benefit  "your life". The claim of the Gospel is ... God reconciling the human unto Himself.  (for His purposes Ephesians 1:18) The claim of the Gospel is about the bringing forth of the Kingdom of God in the earth.  (not the "American dream" ... and "the power to succeed") When you stand before the cross, and see the desolation, the utter end to all; ... then, time will stand still.  It's over. Darkness, ... will cover the face of the sky. Jesus cried, ...it is "finished".  We say it is finished.  Total desolation.   Time stands still.      It's Over. Confession - the self-ploughing,  preparing the ground for the seeds of God's vision. Identification - with His salvation. Not identifying with the outward act of  "making a statement",   but rather identifying with the holy sacrifice. Now, as we take our eyes off of our sin, and off the sinner, (any sinner), the power to judge is obliterated: it becomes desolate.  It is without form.  It is over.        Finished. And as we look up, away up, and see the desolated victim, ... our sacrifice,  ... hanging in total loss and brokenness, we see for the first time ... that it is "a man"  ... just like us. We look around,  ... and see his friends and family, ... and anguish fills our soul.  "My God, my God, why have You forsaken us ? " It is seems ... like a "total loss".    And, what a "waste"!    * Until we see ... that He has discharged the holiest of all functions.   He has become a sacrifice unto the LORD, ... so that someone whom God loves, might be made free to live. This is the fruit of repentance that each one of us in Christ ... must have ! Now, that we see that this holy sacrifice is not unlike ourselves, ... our hearts are turned from the anguish of being the condemning judge, to seeing the beauty of the utmost love of God, to save  ... even us. When we are at the end of "ourselves",  ... and found in the midst of desolation with our holy sacrifice, and when we see that it is over:  it is then, that God, because of His continuous love for His Creation, chooses to raise us up for His Glory, ... and for His purpose. Christ was not sacrificed unto loss.  Our hands are placed upon the "Power of God" unto Salvation.  (see: Romans 1:16,17)   Our identity is placed with our holy sacrifice unto life.  (read: 2 Corinthians 5:14-21) ____ "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live;  yet not I, but Christ lives in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh,  I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me,  and gave Himself  for me."                                                - Galatians 2:20  "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God. And be not conformed to this world: but, be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is the good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God." - Romans ch.12	Pgs 146 - 157

Chapter nine
	Desolation When it's Over When it is over, and all of our striving is finished;  then we are  born again.  Then, we become aware of the beauty of desolation of the soul, and the new found "freedom". We see for the first time the absence of judging.  For the first time, we see the rest in God's forgiveness; the victory and hope radiating from God's love.  We see the ease, and beauty, of bearing one another's burdens. Now that we don't have to strive, and judge, it becomes easier to help others. It's at this point, that we sense the presence of the Spirit of God.  It's at this point, where He runs out to meet us, and usher us into His Kingdom, and into His intention for us.  (see: St. Luke ch.15) He rises to the "boldness" of His salvation, and welcomes us into His purposes for our lives. His presence is with us to assist us in growth, and enable us to function in His Kingdom.  He is our Father. "Our Father which art in Heaven, ... Hallowed be Your Name.  Your Kingdom come.   Your will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven.  Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.  Lead us not into temptation, ... but, deliver us from evil.  For Yours is the Kingdom, and the Power, and the Glory, for ever.  Amen."     - St. Matthew ch.6 ____                  Desolation Desolation (in our lives) is the place where God's righteousness begins. God created everything on this earth, (out from) desolation.  When the earth was corrupt, He brought it to desolation with a Flood. Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, the nation of Israel, the Kings, and the Prophets, all were visited, and prepared by God, in desolation. When God's people "strayed", He returned them to a place of desolation. The beauty of "desolation" is that it has no form, no time, no strength of its own, no purpose, no expectation, no beautiful characteristic,  ... no story.    It is "finished". The mighty workings of God with the new nation of Israel, that we read about in the scriptures, happened in the wilderness at Mt. Horeb, (translated as "desolate"),  and in captivity. In the New Testament we see the same characteristic again.  We read the stories of the  stable, the wilderness, the Garden of Gethsemane, the cross, the "leaderless" disciples in the upper room, Roman persecution, prison, and the Isle of Patmos. Desolation, is openness, and availability, with no reserve.                                       But, having said all that I have about God's presence rising up out the midst of desolation, I think it's important for us to not misunderstand. The truth about desolation is not about how many belongings one has:  nor, how poor one is. Although it can be very distracting to have wealth, power, and abundance, the answer is not found in destruction, for poor people can be just as far from God, (and His desires), as anyone. The Apostle Peter put it this way  ... "that (man) should no longer live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men,  but to the will of God".                                                              - 1 Peter 4:2 Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, the nation of Israel, the Kings, and the Prophets, were all visited, and prepared by God, in "desolation".  (that's  where they learned  "God's Presence") And, even so, we need to be able to obediently separate ourselves to the leading of the Holy Spirit.  (at once) "Turn unto Me with all your heart, and "rend your heart", and not your garments.  Turn unto the LORD your God, for He is gracious, and merciful."                                                   - Joel 2:11-21 ____ A Vision I was in a church that preached the "substitution" message;  the message  that Jesus died for their sins,  ... and  was their savior. Actually, I don't think they even knew much about the Kingdom of God, or the "voice of the Holy Spirit", or the fact that God has a plan in this earth. As I stood at the front to pray for a move of the Holy Spirit amongst this group,  ... I could see four Angels standing, ... one at each corner; and they were holding a line which made a "fence" around the group,  ... to fence them in. A darkness came over the group, and a putrid smell arose up ... from their corruption and sin. I prayed to God, that they should have a move of the Holy Spirit amongst them,  ... but all I could see was their sin. I cried out, "that the blood of Christ should cover this sin, and offence",  ...  ...  but, they had  not  ...  repented.	Pgs 158 - 162

Chapter ten
	the Presence         As Jesus moved about in the hotbed of legalistic religion, his message and ministry were obviously raising an eyebrow, or two.   The Gospel says,  ... "Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness, and all manner of disease among the people.  And His fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto Him all sick people that were taken with diverse diseases, and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatic, and those that had the palsy, and He healed them. And there followed Him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judea, and from Jordan."   - St. Matthew 4:23-25  Did Jesus not respect the "Religion" ... that the people were used to ?   (What was this "new" preaching about the "Kingdom"?) What was this outpouring of power, and forgiveness, to even the common, everyday people ? Did He not hold God's Laws, and Prophets, as being holy ? Why were even sinners being healed, set free from torments, and ... being delivered from demonic control ? And, why was all this happening in so many different places, and not just in the synagogue, ... or the temple ?        It's important for us to realize what the thought of Jesus was toward God's "past dealings" with the people of the earth.  Let's briefly look at some of the things ... that he had said. Jesus proclaimed, (present tense statements) ... "I and the Father are one"  (St. John 10:30),  and  "He that has seen me has seen the Father"  (St. John 14:9) He said,  ...                "the Words that I speak unto you ... I speak not of myself:  but the Father, who dwells in me, He does the  works.  Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very work's sake."   (St. John 14:10,11)           He read from the Scripture, (Isaiah 61:1,2)   ... "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He has anointed me to preach the Gospel to the poor.  He has sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and the recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, and to preach the "acceptable time of the Lord". This day, this scripture is "fulfilled" in your ears.  (St. Luke 4:17-20) He said, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in Heaven.  Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets.  I am not come to destroy, but to "fulfill".  (St. Matthew 6:16,17)               When he was being tempted by Satan, ... he said, "It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every Word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.  It is written, You shall not tempt the Lord your God.  It is written, You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve. The devil left Him, and behold, angels came and ministered   to him."  (St. Matthew 4:1-11) ____ The "Presence of God" 1. "Presence" concerns   (in our lives) I don't think it takes much of a stretch to see where the mind of Jesus is   ... in any of these references that we have looked at. *(Without the concept of "present tense"... it's impossible to have "Presence") Why do religious people spend so much of their time skirting the issue of the "presence" of God, and give so much of their effort to things that don't really concern them ? *(God revealed Himself to Moses, and the Israelites, ... as "I AM".   - Exodus 3:13-15) Jesus said, "I will not leave you comfortless. (alone)   At that day you shall know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. The Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said to you." (St. John 14:1-31,  Get to "know" Him) 2.  The "God"  of  the Scriptures Even Satan can quote Scripture, (as in the temptation - St. Matthew 4:6),  but every answer that Jesus had was based upon present "relationship".    The Scripture is full of "relationship" understanding, and most times self-righteous religious people will miss it; ... having put their efforts into the past stories of the Bible, or church tradition, or a study of future prophecy, or their own life-style, rather than relating to the "presence" of God: the ever-present God of the scriptures.                                                3.  The "Fulfillment" of Scripture "And his disciples came to him:  and he taught them, saying, You are the salt of the earth.  You are the light of the world. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Think not that I am come to destroy the Law, or the Prophets:  I am not come to destroy, but to "fulfill".  Not one jot, or tittle, shall pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the Scribes and Pharisees, you shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven."                                          - St. Matthew  ch.5 Jesus said that his Christ life does not do away with the past revelations of God; but rather, the Spiritual anointing will fulfill God's expression of His righteousness.   This "fulfilling" is created and directed by the Holy Spirit. Jesus also made it quite clear that his disciples would be the salt of the earth, and the light of the world. He didn't say that his writings would be.  (he taught that the "word" becomes flesh) All of the teachings of Jesus were wrapped up in the present tense expressiveness of God.  (the "Logos") He taught about a Kingdom that was not of this earth, about Words that were not his own, about "Works" that were not his own, and about a righteousness that surpassed that of the religious leaders.  (St. John 18:36, St. John ch.14,15,16,17, St. Luke 17:20,21, Romans 14:17, and 1Corinthians 4:20)              He said, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.  This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, You shall love your neighbor as yourself.  On these two commandments hang all the law, and the prophets."                                            - St. Matthew 22:37-40     Present "Expression" (Vertical and Horizontal) When you realize that all of your life's expression is born out of just two avenues of flow, it becomes easier to work with your "life-building" experience. Now, you don't have a multitude of "do's", and "don'ts", or a multitude of traditions, and rituals. You have a "listening" heart; and are acting out, and "doing", the will of your Father who is in heaven;  ... as you are directed by His Holy Spirit who is here with you. This is God's righteousness awaiting you.  (and  your  situation) You might be different. (Jesus was, so were His disciples)   You might even be "salt". (this will effect your surroundings)  You might even be a light of God's expression. You do not want to be religious: but, you do want to be an expression of God's presence.  Learning the traditions of one's faith is not enough.   You must be introduced to the Spirit of God who will then bring about His own intents, and purposes, in your life.  (St. John ch.3, and ch.15)                                                                       Jesus said, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.  This is the first and great commandment." The Importance of the "vertical" flow Whether this relationship with our Father is vertical, or not, is questionable.   But, for the sake of our discussion, and as we realize that His presence is vast and everywhere, and that He holds an exalted position, we will look up to Him. Praise and thankfulness to Him are good, and serve to cleanse our minds, discipline our attention, release our faith, defy negative circumstance, exalt our God, and diminish every other force. (Psalms 47, 48, 148, 149, 150)   It identifies us as to who we are, and who our God is. It calls our attention to our walk before God in this life, and also to His workings, and desires.  (as we name them) It puts our minds, and hearts, into a communicative readiness to hear His expressions; and to see His visions, and "realize" His wisdom, and intent.   (Ephesians 5:14-21) For after all, this is a "two-way" chat room; and by doing His will, as we are directed by Him, we then express the highest praise, and exercise of worship.   (1 John 2:17)  *Something to do - "identify" your praise, and "watch" for His intent.    Have a paper, and pen ready.   (See:  Psalms 45:1, Isaiah 8:1 and  Ezekiel 9:2,11, Jeremiah 30:1-4, Revelation 1:11, and 21:5)  ____                                                     Jesus said ... "and the second commandment is like unto it, You shall love your neighbor   ... as yourself."                     The Importance of the "horizontal" flow Because of God's interest towards His people, and the reconciling intent of His Spirit, ... having a relationship with God will inevitably include "having a relationship with His people". Now, it's just a matter of us figuring out whether we are having a relationship with His people "in His Spirit",  or independent of Him. When we think of "loving" our neighbor we must remember that we are to love our neighbor, "as ourselves".  If we are dead to our selves, and if we are open to His flow of "life" and not our own greed and ambition,  ... then it is with this same attitude that we offer servitude and love to our neighbor.  We don't just respond to their "good ideas".  This is just as much an exercise of obedience as if we were serving ourselves.  (see: Galatians 2:16-21) What did Jesus mean when he said that this life that he had to offer would fulfill the law ?    (St. Matthew 5:17) Remember, this is not an exercise of our own good works. Fulfilling God's Law is an accomplishment of God's Spirit in our lives.  We do as "directed".  We don't judge out of our tradition. (1 Peter ch.4) This love is born out of vertical relationship, and is not under the dominion of the carnal way of thinking.  *(Not even ... that of the person  ... that we are serving)                                                                               ____     * The Importance of the Word in Your Spirit  The confusion about what the Word of God is hinders many well-meaning Christians. When Jesus spoke to the people about God's Law, and God's Prophets,  ... he was referring to the "Scriptures". Most of these people were well versed in these writings; and some of them were even priests, ... and teachers. The issue at hand was,  ... did they just know "presence of the writings",  or  did they know "presence of the Word" ?   (Revelation 19:11-13) We know that they had the presence of the writings; and some even wore the "law" as part of their dress. The "presence of God's Spirit", and His directing Word,  ... was the issue at hand. John the Baptist said, "I baptize you with water unto repentance, (which is good), but he (Jesus) shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost." Jesus came to John the Baptist to be baptized, and John didn't want to baptize Him.  He thought that he should be baptized by Jesus.  (St. Matthew ch.3)   But Jesus told him to do it, for we should fulfill all righteousness. So John baptized him. "And the Spirit of God descended upon Jesus,  and a voice from heaven, saying, this is My beloved Son,  in whom I am well pleased."                                                                             ____ In some of his final teachings to his disciples Jesus said ... "... the words that I speak unto you, I speak not of myself:  but the Father that "dwells"  in me,  He does the  works. He that believes on me, the works that I do shall he do also;  greater works than these shall he do, because I go unto my Father.     If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. And the word which you hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me. The Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." - St. John 14:10,12,23,24,26 In the teaching of Jesus, there is always a direct connection between words, and works. His attitude towards the Scripture was that God does not speak in vain: nor most times, in "finality". As we have seen from the beginning, most times the Word of the LORD comes as a "planting" in this earth; and then, unfolds into an "expression" of His Wisdom, and righteousness. Did the law really need to be "fulfilled" ?   Do the prophecies really need to be "fulfilled" ? "fulfilled" -  (See: Acts 2:16, St. Luke 4:17-20, Romans ch.8, and about 60 times more in the New Testament writings of the Bible, alone)                                ____                             "Prophetic" Word "... Jesus stood...saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.  He that believes on me, as the Scripture has said, out of his innermost shall flow rivers of "living" water. (But this ... he spoke of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given because that Jesus was not yet glorified)  Many of the people, when they heard this saying said, of a truth this is the prophet." - St. John 7:37-40          What was Jesus talking about ... when he said, out of "you" would "flow" ?   The answer that was given in the next verse, is that he was talking about the expression of the Holy Ghost. ____   Word Study Whenever you hear people referring to "the Word" of God, it is of importance to note that wherever the Bible uses this term, ... it doesn't always refer to the written Scripture. The term "Word" is translated from the Greek word, "logos", sometimes;   and other times, from the Greek, "rhema".  The "logos" is the noun expression of God. (incl. "words")   It is more the great "picture" expression of God in the earth that shows what God has done, and what He has established. (St. John 1:1-4 refers to Jesus;   St. John 10:34,35  refers to Old Testament Law; ... Titus 1:1-3 refers to the Gospel   - these are "Logos") The "rhema" is the present tense "verbal" uttering of God's intention.   ("within"  His great expression) This "Rhema" is the fulfilling ministries of the Spirit.  This is God's Presence working to fulfill His "logos", and to express life from it. *God makes a Statement,    ... then He brings that Expression into "fullness".   God's people today ... are still fulfilling  ...  His "Expression". When Jesus said,  Out of "your" innermost would flow rivers of living water, he was referring to the Holy Ghost flow of ministry that we find in the New Testament stories, and in the earth today.   (present tense) When "Word" is translated from the Greek word "rhema", the Gk. root of this "rhema" - is "rheo". "Rheo", when translated, means "flow".  (now, we're getting close) Now, let's go back and put it together.  The "flow", has a "rhema" nature to it, and the "rhema" has a "rheo" nature to it.  (present tense) Most times where you see the expression "word" being used in terms of ministry, or service, it has been translated from the Greek word, "rhema".  (In the sense that Jesus spoke of, this would be the  flowing  word  of the Spirit) (See also: Romans 10:8,  Ephesians 5:26,  6:17,  Hebrews 1:3, 6:5, 11:3,  1Peter 1:25,   Galations 6:6,   Acts 11:16,   2 Corinthians 13:1   and   1 Peter 4:11)                        ____ Let's  Review Our habitual practice of life-building is for each of us;  ... and towards our neighbor.   (God is the personal  "Designer") The Scriptures,  ... and Jesus ?    We see Jesus as the "Presence" of God:  the fulfilling of God's "Expression". The disciples are the salt, and the "light",  not the writings. The Law, and the Prophets, are fulfilled in two  "flows".   We see the importance of the vertical flow, and the importance of the horizontal flow. In these two flows we see the importance of the "prophetic" word. There is a direct connection between His "Words" (rhema),  and His "Works"  (logos). ____ Now,  What is the "Word of God" ? Do you see the importance of understanding the New Testament Gospel of Christ, and the "presence" of God's Spirit, when setting out to build your life ?   (Do you understand the "Gospel of the Kingdom" that Jesus preached about ? This is not  just a change in "lifestyle",   or a belief in a religious legend)	Pgs 163 - 182

Chapter eleven
	the Change As has been said, … "prior to" our encounter with the Gospel of Christ, and the Holy Ghost, there already was a lot of building going on in our lives ... that formed "our habits". These habitual practices most often will be challenged; and at this point (present tense), we will need to let the Holy Spirit lead us forth into ... His intention for our life. We also know that we need to be "open" to His ministry through other people.  But, be careful.  (This is why it is so important to have the "vertical flow") _____ “Now, is the judgment of this world.  Now, shall the prince of this world  ...  be cast out. He (or she), that loves his (or her) life,   ... shall lose it;   ... but, he that is willing  to throw his life for Jah (God),  shall keep it unto life eternal.”     (Gk. translation)                                           - Jesus  (St. John ch.12)            the Change  …        Six Tips (for Breaking addiction, or carnal habit) 1.  It's Not That Important (consider it "desolated", dead)      ... The "thing",  is  not that important.            When the thought comes again, (answer it boldly) ...  "It's  not  that  important ..." Do this a thousand times ... until your addiction gets tired of hearing it.   (make a decision to do this from this day forward)                  2.  Change Your Friends Get away from people that think that your "addiction" is important.   I said, ...  "Get away from people ... that think that your addiction is important."        Keep getting away ... until your "addiction" gets sick of it.  It's not that "important".  These people carry an "expectancy" with them. Make a decision to do this ... from this day forward. 3.  It Doesn't  "Exist"   How can I say that ...?    Well, ... it doesn't exist ... in my life. What you ... sow into your life ... is what grows around that "tender" ... nervous system of yours. Reduce, or stop, ... the "sowing", ... and your crop will be smaller.   Keep on reducing, or stopping, the sowing  until your addiction gets "sick of it".   Make a decision to do this ... from this day forward. *Keep daily track (even in writing)  ... don't lie to yourself:               ...  until your addiction gets "sick of it"                                                               4.  A Plan Every week, there is some way that you sow "light" into your life.  If you will start sowing without fail, … then, in time you will be full of "light". If you sow "darkness", and smoke;  ... then, you will be full of despondency, and discouragement. You are ... a "creator".  (You were made in the image of the Creator)     Keep sowing light, ... until your addiction gets sick of it.    (It's   "important") These people of "light" carry an expectancy with them, too.  (It's just different)     Expectancy, is a powerful thing. Make a decision to do this ... from this day forward. 5.  Management Give the management of your life to a "new" manager.  Do you know that you ... were never created to manage your life ?  You were created to express God's image in this earth.   And, when you give place to God's Spirit in your life, He will "express" Himself through you.       Do His desires.   Doing the right thing has its own "blessings".  But, it also robs your "addiction" of time, ... and attention.   Make a decision to do this  ...  from this day forward.                     6.  the Seed Have you considered that you can't make a seed grow ?  Oh, you can handle it:  ... but, you can't make it grow. What's inside that "seed" ?   Do you know ... what's inside that seed ?   No.   You won't know that  … until you have seen it "all grown up". You're kind of at God's mercy, aren't you ?   (Mr/Ms. Onlooker ) Do you know that people around you ... are just like that ?  They are "Seeds".  (God's Seeds)      So are you.    (Actually,  ... they are precious, ... and, so are you)       ... Don't Waste "Your" Life ... If you "practice" these six points, they will change your life.  Try to figure out which of these points you are weak in.   Then, "work on changing" ...  that situation.   This is only the "beginning".   Remember, God has a plan for you, ... and He will help you, as you keep stepping out in faith.   (follow His leading.   Prayer changes things) Start Today !   (life isn’t that long) Rise in the Name of Christ ! ____ Anger Base So many of us carry "anger" (even unknowingly),  and make our decisions out of anger. When Jesus taught his disciples to pray, he recognized that forgiveness would effect "Spiritual flow" in their lives; and have an affect on how they handled temptation, and deliverance.  (St. Matthew 6:9-15) Remember, that the source of our power is not the ability to judge,   (that comes from the tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil), but rather the ability to forgive. (that comes from the tree of death to ourselves  - the Cross) The Power that comes from the first tree is the "curse":  ... but the Power that comes from the second tree,  ... is salvation. Even family anger stops at the cross.  Do you know that God can bless your heritage, without you ?    (Isaiah 61:9, Psalms 98) But, wouldn't it be "rather nice" ... that you participated in it ? The wisest thing to do is to grow in saving might, and power:  not in anger, and fear. It's not necessary for might to have anger.  For the most part ... defeated people carry anger. Anger arises from "sorrow", which has come from dwelling on hurt. The progression is - hurt - sorrow - anger - wrath - rage.  All of these progress ... through "contemplation".                       At the point of "rage", ... we lose our capacity of decision. At the levels of "anger", and "wrath", we lose our fellowship, and ministry. To deal with anger is similar to dealing with an addiction; and quite often the root of an addiction is found in "hurt", and "anger".   Often, the only way out (people think) is found in disillusionment.  (getting high) To deal with anger, you must see the truth of the judging curse, (that has come from the Garden of Eden), and have a hatred for it: ... not tolerate it. When you experience the truth of the Cross, and see that Jesus didn't die for you:     ... ...  but rather, that you are laying down "your" life with him, and are going to participate in his "Spirituality";  ... then you take no offence.   Rather, you are seeing the situation in God's light,  ... and "contemplating" that. This truth will open the way for the character of love, "endurance", and  "blessing".  (St. John 6:63, Romans 8:6, Ephesians 4:29-32) This Spiritual life demands less (judging), and is more fulfilling.  It's the path of the Cross.  It's the Kingdom of God. It's the righteousness of God.    It's the "light" that arises. ... Grow in might,  ... and  Spiritual power. *Inner healing for the anger problem comes from hearing the Holy Spirit's view of these hurts; ... and then, writing those thoughts down, ... and making them your own.   _____ It's a new life ...                                                                                "Beloved, remember ... the words which were spoken before, by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ.  They told you ... there would be mockers in the last time, who would walk after their own ungodly lusts. These are they who separate themselves, and are sensual;   not having the Spirit. But you beloved, ... build yourselves up on your most holy faith, ... praying according to God's Spiritual view. Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ  ... unto eternal life. Of some, have compassion (making a difference):  others, save with fear, ... pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the Presence of His Glory with exceeding joy.  To the only wise God, our Savior,  be Glory, and Majesty, Dominion and Power,  both now, and ever."                                                   - Jude 17-25       ____ "Be filled with the Spirit ... understanding what the will of the LORD is   ... Speaking to yourselves in Psalms, and hymns, and Spiritual songs, singing, and  making melody in your hearts to the LORD . Giving thanks always for all things unto God, the Father, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God."  (not just submitting, ... but, respecting  God's will, ... in the matter)                                          - Ephesians 5:17-21	Pgs 183 -202

Chapter twelve
	the Living   7 Keys of Understanding  (New Life)         1. Truth -  is obviously the first and most important essence to functioning in the "new life".  Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life." (St. John 14:6)   He was speaking about his own "living the life".  He also said that we are to abide in him, and that the Spirit of Truth would dwell with us, and would lead us into the truth.  (St. John 14:16,17) Paul, the apostle, said that ... we are to gird up our loins with truth.  Our loins are the area of our strength to stand upright, and to be active and strong.  On the inner part of our loins, is our reproductive, fruit-bearing area.  (For this two-fold understanding, read  Ephesians 6:10-19, and  St. John ch.15) Now, it wouldn't be fair to talk about truth, without us knowing ... what it is. We never come to a realization of truth without some form of crisis.  That crisis can be self-imposed, or it could be  ... imposed upon us. Most of what we have come to call "truth" ... is nothing more than presumption.  We base our knowledge upon past experience, fear, faith, desire, tradition, or some other temporary imagination.    We settle for principles of presumption.  But, truth is ever changing, and transient, for it exists within an atmosphere of ever changing  "life". You place two small straws upon the sand, and swear mathematically that there are two, until a gust of wind comes and takes one, or both.                      You were in fashion ten years ago because you wore a certain clothing style.  That is not true now.  Today, it's not fashionable.  What you may have thought was "true business" twenty-five years ago,  ... is not truth.  It doesn't work today.  It's impractical. What we are so sure are "facts", we have now come to learn in our court systems, and science labs, ... are most times presumptions.  They change with "realization". There is only one way to arrive at truth, and that is to hear the Spirit of truth.  He is also ... the force of life. There is only one way to stay in relationship to truth, and that is to  ... abide in Him.  (our truth of today ... moves and changes) We are meant to have fellowship with God, but because of our pride, independence, and carnal nature, we lock ourselves ... into  "false traditions".   (and written legalism) The Hebrew word that we have drawn our idea of truth from in scripture is "emeth".   It means stability, certainty, faithful and right,  sure, trustworthiness, truth. The Spirit of God moved upon Jesus as he spoke,  "I am the way, the truth, and the life".    (St. John 14:6,10,  Proverbs 8:32-36) Now, I'm going to challenge you  ... to find truth.  I am also going to state to you that most times you will not realize the whole picture of truth ... at one time.  Nor, will you always find it in one place.  The early apostles wrote to the church that every word should be established in the mouth of two, or three witnesses:  obviously Spiritually minded ones.       (2 Corinthians 13:1, 1 Timothy 5:19,  Hebrews 12:1) It's important for us to have an understanding of what truth is because our whole relationship to miracles, and the mighty works of God, depend upon this foundation. Can you imagine Moses  ... standing upon the shore of the Red Sea.  The crowd of Israelites are all around him, trusting him.   Babies are crying, men and women are talking.    The Egyptian army is coming.  The truth is ... that that they are up against the Red Sea, and blocked.    The truth is ... ?     (no, that's presumption)     No, that's not the truth. God said, "Moses, stretch out your hand over the water."    (and  ... the waters parted)   That's  ... the  "truth". 2. Relaxation (not striving) -  It is confusing to fight a spiritual battle, carnally.  Jesus said, that ... it is the Father's good pleasure to give you the Kingdom.  (St. Luke 12:23-32)   Paul the apostle said that he was content ... no matter what condition he was in.  (Philippians 4:11-13) He also said to put on the helmet of salvation, and to take up the sword of the Spirit, which is the "rhema" word of God.  (Ephesians 6:17)  Hear, and think the thoughts of the Holy Spirit.  With this state of mind, ... you can get involved in the work of the LORD. (vs.18) 3. Justification - is when you "know" your position with God, and His good intentions for you;  and are expressing His glory in the earth. This is His righteousness. (Isaiah ch.61,62)    We walk in justification, now.    Just as Jesus was one with the Father, even so, we are already seated in heavenly places with Him. (Ephesians 2:1-7)  Jesus, being one with God, thought it no loss to humble himself, and become a servant ... to redeem lost humanity.  (Philippians 2:5-18)                                                               One has to know justification,  ... for it is the strength of stewardship, and authority, in this contrary world. We are not doing things so that we might be saved.   Being saved, or justified, comes from the Spirit's acceptance.  We are to have on His  breastplate of righteousness.   (Ephesians 6:14)        4.  Faith -  is confidence in the Lord, and  in your relationship with Him.  Faithfulness in the least of actions will lead you to a position of strength. This "faith" is not only your shield, but it is also the "light" that shines to others.  It is the preparation of the Gospel of Peace.  It is the practice of walking in the "light".  (Ephesians 6:15, and 1 John ch.1) 5. In My Name - is the term used, when you are doing what someone has sent you to do.  If you are not representing Him, ... then don't say that you are doing this act in His name. (it's "your" good idea)   In the scripture, it is recorded that Jesus sent forth his disciples to preach the Gospel to all creatures; and that the Holy Ghost would confirm the word with signs following.  And He did.  (St. Mark 16:15-20)       Here's a summary of events.  In John's gospel, we have much preparatory teaching to these same disciples.  (chs.14,15,16) In Luke's gospel, he said that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name, but that they should wait for the promise of the Father to come to them, and then they would be witnesses unto this gospel. (St. Luke 24:47-51)  They waited, and it did happen.   (Acts 1:8, and ch.2, etc)      "In his name", means just that. It means by his word;  his "direction".  (by the Holy Spirit)   It's not an opinionated "free for all",  ... nor is it tradition-bound.                                                          6. Fruit -  is a result of your  relationship  with the Spirit of God. Because God is reconciling the world unto Himself, it is an easy thing to understand that if you are abiding in His presence, He will use you to fulfill His intent. In the parable of the Sower, Jesus spoke of various people ... that heard the "word".  He spoke of one person who was distracted. As that person went forward in life, this word was choked out by the cares, riches, and pleasures of this life.  He went on to say, that the person brought forth no fruit unto perfection.  (fruit that becomes mature enough to reproduce - St. Luke 8:14)       (think on this ... )        7.  Regeneration - is the term used to describe the new birth that happens in a person that God has relationship with.  In the natural birth process the baby is conceived in the womb of flesh, and grows accustomed to the comforts, and instincts, of life in the womb. (good, or bad)   When babies are born into the light of life their senses become alive, the umbilical cord is cut, ... and for the first time they sense hunger, loneliness, and fear.   Soon, they see their own abilities, and inabilities.    It's similar to the individual that is experiencing regeneration.  They see their own "mess".  Their nature fights to grow, and develop;  and  as they grow they are less boisterous with their crying, and need less attention. They can do more, and they grow more accustomed to their environment.      Soon, their personal identity and giftings are apparent to those around them.   They become more aware of their liberties: and their representation of "something" becomes more of an issue in their everyday lives.  Even so, we are born again by the "word" of God. (1Peter 1:23,25, "word" translated in vs.23 - logos,  vs.25 - rhema)           ____ The  Message  (challenged) The Christian message has been challenged continuously by man's weakness for tradition.  On every hand, the carnality of man's religion has sought to displace the presence of God's Spirit in the individual's life, and replace it with the authority of the organization. The "Word of God" is now changed, ... to mean the Bible. The truth of the event of the cross is now seen to be a "one time" event on man's behalf;  a substitutionary event that frees the rest of humanity from the penalty of sin.  "Believe in the legend, and be saved".      Although this sounds close, it is not the gospel that Jesus and the apostles preached, and it doesn't fulfill prophetic scripture.  It would do us well to refer back to the events of these early preachers, where we are called upon to  "take up the cross and follow".  (St. Luke 9:23,24 and ch.14:27)            The popular preaching of the Gospel, which we now call evangelism, is centered around escape from worldliness, and getting to heaven by believing in Jesus. However, the prophets (that foretold the arrival of the Gospel) preached that the "nations of this earth" would be blessed by the Gospel. They preached that a "light" would spring up in the midst of great darkness, and that people would find deliverance ... here in this earth. There would be blessing, reconciliation to God, restoration, and a fresh new stewardship "calling" upon people's lives. This is the light of salvation, predicted.  (Isaiah ch.61, Joel ch.2, and  St. John ch.3) The Gospel is earth "orientated".  We are calling people to faith, service,  ... and Spiritual ministry with intent.  (St. Luke 4:18-21)                                                                                      Before we leave this earth, we need to ask ourselves what we are leaving behind  ... in this life.  Think back on the parables that Jesus told people;  ... and about how some folks didn't serve God very well.  We need to check our efforts.  Were they actually born of the Holy Spirit, ... or were they carnally motivated?   (someone's good idea)   Do we know what Spiritual stewardship is ?  How easy it is to get caught up in a form of religion, where the presence of God's Spirit is displaced by things that look good.   Things like fellowship, church, the Bible, creed, good works, talking about Jesus, ministry, music, reading, helping out, sports, and a host of other activities, as well as pursuing "life's dreams"; all independent of God. We are to be in Christ (the purposeful Word), seated in heavenly places.   We are to be the "expression" of Christ,  ... the Spiritual Son of man. He said  ... "I always do the things that please the Father.  I and the Father ... are one."   - St. John 8:29, 10:30 "Tarry until you are endued with power from on high, then you will be a witness unto me." - St. Luke 24:47-50 "I will pray the Father,  ... and He shall give another Comforter, even the Spirit of Truth;  whom the world cannot receive, because it sees Him not,  neither knows Him:  but, you know Him;  for He dwells with you, and shall be in you."   - St. John 14:16,17                              ____ The  Power of Realization Most of us rely upon the power of convincing, and of persuasion, but there is no power stronger than "realization". Convincing, and persuasion, leads to opinion, but the power of realization leads to conviction, and relationship. Realization, is the power of "fruit bearing".  It's not a carnal "forming"  ... through persuasion. Possibility, and faith, ... are a part of realization.  Persuasion is dry.   It's just a sales job, and has no life in it.  ____ Hearing God, or  Delusional ? Based upon the premise that action ... is preceded by thought and contemplation: and that "thought" is introduced to us, we should be more careful, as to who, or what, our source is. Where we position ourselves is "quite important" to this introduction process.  At this point, either "carnality", or "spirituality", becomes the important deciding factor. We build fellowship in the Gospel of Light upon a new foundation.     It's doom and gloom, or it's newness and freshness;   ...  all of it depending upon our source. Because of our carnal nature, "light" is susceptible to pride, envy, flattery, etc.  But we are saying,  "Put on the cloak of righteousness.    Take up the shield of faith, and quench the fiery darts of the enemy." Get ready to express the intent of God's Spirit.                                           ____ A New Race of People When we are born into this world, we are born out of the lineage of the first Adam.  We are of the "human" race.  With this experience comes all of the senses, abilities, and desires, of our racial inheritance.  (carnal nature) When we are "born again of the Holy Spirit", we are born into a "new race", and a new existence.         It is literally that bold. God's Spirit puts us through a new birth process through the second Adam (Christ), and gives us a new inheritance, with new senses, abilities, and desires. We become part of a new race;   the "Son of God" race. We are rooted in heavenly places with Christ Jesus, and have a heavenly inheritance, and authority, within the Kingdom of God.  (Spiritual nature)       (Ephesians ch.1,2) Knowing this, ... we are not obligated to this first inheritance;  but must rise up, and let our light shine in newness of life in Christ with the ability that God's Spirit gives to us. We are not seeking to become Jewish, or traditional Christian, or any other religion;  but rather,  ...  to be born of the "light".  I am of the Son of God race.  Let God's glory and authority arise,  ...  for the Kingdom of Heaven ... is at hand.    (Romans 8:14)    Romans ch.5, 1 Corinthians ch.15,  Psalms 68:1,2,  Isaiah ch.58,61,65, and  Psalms 72:11 ____ Re-check the Message "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have  everlasting life."                                               - St. John 3:16 Whenever we quote this verse, we have always presented it to mean that if a person believed in Jesus, and how he died on the cross for their sins, that they would be able to go to heaven when they died. This is not a true presentation of the Gospel, nor is it the context of this statement.  (nor, does it fulfill prophecy) The whole setting of this portion of John's record is that light is come into this world, and that this light is the word of God, even the essence of God.  (St. John ch.1) This phenomenon would light the human, and give them power to become the sons of God; ... and they would be born of the Spirit of God.  (vs.9,12,13) They would be justified, (vs.29), and be baptized with the Holy Ghost (vs.33); and this would be the beginning of the new, born again, race of people. (ch.3) The issue in chapter 3, is not so much a future promise, (although everlasting life is clearly promised), but rather an issue of present tense visitation of light, and new birth; and man's response to it. (vs.19-21)  Everlasting life starts now.  (vs.36) We have preached a futuristic salvation, but that's not what Jesus, and the apostles, ... preached.                                                The apostles and prophets of ancient times preached that a great light of righteousness would spring up in the midst of a dark world, and that God would bring salvation, healing, and blessing to man.  He would be their God, and they would be His people, ... here on this earth. He would pour out His Spirit upon all flesh, and they would prophesy, and dream dreams, and set the captives free. We must come to the light:  ... the presence, and realization of the Supreme Spirit of God. This is the deliverance that the prophets spoke of.  (St. Luke ch.3,4,  St. Matthew ch.4,5,  Acts ch.1,2, and  Isaiah ch.60,61,62,  Joel,  Zechariah)      ____ the "Light" When we preach about the light, the realization and expression of His presence, there is an immediate call for repentance. This is a gospel that is about works of light,  and deliverance for the captives; ... righteousness, peace, and joy, in God's Spirit, rather than deeds of darkness and evil.  It's about repentance,   ...  not just "belief".  It is coming to the light in faith and obedience, not carrying on in darkness. When God gave His word to the human race, it wasn't so that we could just have forgiveness of sins, and go to heaven. He birthed a whole new race.  We are the light of the world;  born again by relationship with His Spirit.                                                                                             "Humble yourselves in the sight of the LORD, and He shall lift you up. Go to now, you that say, Today, or tomorrow, we will go into a particular city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas, you don't know what will be tomorrow.  For what is your life ?  It is even a vapor that appears for a little time, and then vanishes away. For you ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall do this, or that.  But now you rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil. Therefore, to him that knows to do good, and does it not;  to him it is sin."                                                 -  James 4:10-17 ____ "There is one body, one Spirit, even as you are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all,  Who is above all, ... and in you all. But, unto every one of us,  ... is given grace according to the measure  ... of the gift of Christ." - Ephesians 4:4-7	Pgs 203 - 222

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