Staying in the Overflow

Misty Edwards

2010-09-03T03:35:00.000-04:00

Oh How We Want You To Come! by Misty Edwards

More Misty Edwards music on iLike

"If I Was the Devil"

2010-08-24T04:29:00.000-04:00

If I Was The Devil - TheDevilisReal.com from Denton Bible on Vimeo.

Crutch

2010-07-26T10:22:00.000-04:00

I've heard it said, "Religion is a crutch for emotionally weak people."

The fact is that is partly true. If by religion, you mean my faith and trust in God and His Word and His Spirit, then yes, it is indeed a crutch. However, you are wrong on this one point: I am not emotionally weak. In fact, I have been made emotionally stable through my faith. It is my enduring faith which makes me constantly able to emotionally handle the trials of life; trials that would come whether I was a believer or not.

I find many people who claim 'no religion', have nothing to support them when they need it. While they would claim to have friends or family or even their own strength to push them through, the truth is that all of that worldly support pales in comparison to the Power of God in the life of a believer. At times, even, you will find the faithless calling on the faithful, to pray for them. In doing so, you have made MY religion YOUR crutch. Hypocrite!

Only time will tell the truth of the matter. In the end, we will all know the truth. My crutch works for me. Your lack of a crutch leaves you whining in the storm.

Please Consider Supporting our Work in Haiti

2010-06-23T02:56:00.000-04:00

Hope is Fading from Allan Rosenow on Vimeo.

Church: No Witches Allowed

2010-04-23T00:07:00.001-04:00

I am not expecting a lot of applause at the end of this. I recently had a conversation with a friend of ours. During this conversation they mentioned that God had convicted them of certain behavior and that they were 'working on it'.

Unfortunately, I believe a lot of the church is where this dear friend of ours is in their walk. A lot of believers are 'working on' something and living in disobedience.

In chapter four of his book, Spiritual Boot Camp, Jim McIver talks about obedience.

I actually sat under the teaching of this chapter the night before my conversation and was amazed at the parallels that could be drawn.

When God, and as our friend had stated, other people, comment on certain behavior tendencies that they notice, and they do so in a biblically sound manner, and we refuse to heed that counsel, we are in disobedience to God, and in rebellion.

The issue that was addressed in private through their friends (and the Spirit of God) was not corrected. Repeated attempts to correct the believer had met with rebellion. That believer that does not heed the counsel of others in private should prepare for an open rebuke.

1 Samuel 15:23:

For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.

In the book, Bishop McIver writes:

"Just think, disobedience is an act of departure from God.....God is not impressed with our good ideals.....All that is necessary in following God is this: be led by His Spirit and obey his commands. Anything that is contrary to God's command is witchcraft and idolatry....There is no rocket science concerning the Will of God....In every area of our lives where God has made His Will clear, we are to obey regardless of the cost."

If God has indeed made His Will clear to you, then 'working on it' is not an option. Apply the blood to it? Yes! Pray through it? Yes! Rebuke it? Bind it? Curse it? Yes! Yes! and Yes! But while we are 'working on it' we are still partaking in it and that is disobedience. That is rebellion. That is witchcraft. In fact, the more I think about it, if I am 'working on it', I have either denied the Power of God or not given Him full control over that area of my life. We all have had that something that we worked on, and, truth be told, we liked it too much to let it go.

So what is it for you? What have you been working on? Stop practicing witchcraft and obey God.

The Law of Honor

2010-03-24T02:34:00.002-04:00

I haven't really had a lot of time to be blogging with all of what's going on around here. This should give you an idea.

Anyway, I started this post over 10 days ago and I have been thinking that maybe someone needs to hear it. Maybe I'll get into detail in the future on this, but for now, here's the basics.

There is a law in effect in the spirit realm; the law of honor. Much like the law of gravity, it can not be avoided.

Your future is determined by who you have chosen to honor (or dishonor). Honor is the seed for honor. As all seeds, it produces after its own kind. I can tell what your destiny will be like; whether grace-filled or tribulation-tossed, by looking at whether or not you honor others and who you choose to honor. I can tell by your ability and willingness to adapt, whether or not you honor others. Adaptation is the proof of honor. You fore go your own desires and needs in order to fulfill the destiny of another, placing them above yourself. Let us prefer one another.

When Joseph was called before Pharaoh, he honored him by shaving his beard. Usually we look at that as he was just cleaning up before going before the ruler. The facts are that beards were normal in his own culture, but considered dirty in Egyptian culture. Joseph adapted. Joseph honored Pharaoh. Pharoah, in turn, honored Joseph. Joseph chose to fulfill Pharaoh's desires in ruling his kingdom - and Joseph, in turn, fulfilled his own destiny.

Many believers are struggling in their walk because they have chosen NOT to honor their leaders. They are not fulfilling their destiny because they complain against leadership; their pastor, their boss, their husband, their teachers, their parents. Complaining does not show honor. Silent submission does.

The Law of Honor is inescapable. We must honor. The fruit will be honor.

Haiti

2010-03-13T04:41:00.001-05:00

Our new blog is up.

It will follow our journey into the mission field.

Staying in the Overflow will remain as a teaching blog.

Weekend Worship

2010-03-13T02:33:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Phil.

What Kind of Sheep are You?

2010-03-10T03:20:00.000-05:00

There are several different kinds of sheep. In which category will you find yourself?

Solitary Sheep
These sheep stay away from the flock. They isolate themselves when in trouble. They think the rest of the flock is too mature for them and that they are not worthy. Lambs, or new believers, fall into this category frequently. They have so much baggage and not enough knowledge of how to be a proper sheep. they are frequently sick or troubled. They require extra attention. The rest of the flock requires extra grace to deal with them. The shepherd knows exactly what they need and is willing to work with them. The rest of the flock should just be examples of proper sheep.

Hermit Sheep
These sheep stay away to avoid the shearing. These believers don't show up for special services or ONLY for special services. They hold back the offering and usually the tithe also. They won't allow the shepherd or the Holy Spirit to prune them. Their wool grows over their eyes and they are blinded by their own lusts and desires. Wolves devour them easily.

Wandering Sheep
They are never happy with the way things are. Nothing is ever big enough, fast enough or good enough. Praise and Worship is either too long, too short, too loud or too soft; not my style or not diverse enough. The messages are too strong or too soft; too much Word or not enough Word. The seats are too soft or too hard. This is not the way it used to be. They bring discontentment into the flock. They visit other flocks frequently looking for something that is probaly found at home, not realizing that the change that is needed is themselves.

Judas Sheep
They lead others to the slaughter. They are blinded by their own ideas of how things should be. this is mostly due to bad teaching they received elsewhere while 'flock-hopping'. They are not willing to submit to the truth, allowing it to become life in them. They are ALWAYS seeking an opportunity to betray their leaders. They are always looking for a way to prosper at someone else's expense. they lie, cheat and deceive. They are among you and you won't even know it until they commit their deception. They have no love for God's people.

Happy Sheep
Happy Sheep are innocent, but not naive. They trust the shepherd implicitly. They are tender and gracious toward leadership and the flock. They are patient with EVERYONE. They stick with their own shepherd and the flock.
They obey.
They submit.
They don't question authority.
They love.
They follow.
They are Happy Sheep.

Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
Hebrews 13:17

Weekend Worship

2010-03-06T00:00:00.003-05:00

This one's for Phil and Emilly. Be Blessed!

Sheep

2010-03-03T14:22:00.000-05:00

For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.
Matthew 8:9

Each fellowship has a leader. They have different names; Pastor, Elder, Bishop, etc. Each leader is under some sort of authority themselves. That authority gives them their authority. When you are submitted to authority, you then carry authority. A good example of this is when believers use the term "In Jesus' Name". They are speaking with authority and can do so because they are submitted to that same authority.

So, whose authority, besides that of Jesus Christ, is my leader under? Well, it's not your concern or your business really. Most leaders in higher positions are held accountable to their own peers. But again, their submission to authority is not your concern. You should be concerned with your own submission. If you can past that, you'll go far. Many times believers look at their leaders in a way that becomes too familiar and that is not healthy.

If you are submitted, UNDER authority, you will be proper sheep.

Sheep have responsibilities.

Sheep know the voice of the shepherd. When a sheep is just a lamb, the shepherd carries the lamb frequently on his shoulder. By doing this, the sheep constantly hears the shepherd's voice. It is like when a woman is pregnant and the husband talks to her belly. When that baby is born, not only does the baby recognize the mother's voice, but the father's also. This is important for the lamb, because when trouble may come, he will need to recognize the shepherd's voice.

Sheep follow the shepherd. The shepherd carries a rod/staff. The staff guides the sheep in the way to go. The rod corrects their wrong way and puts them back in the flow of the flock. Sheep should not try going their own way, they may get the rod. Ouch!

Sheep eat what the shepherd feeds them. If you are church-hopping or always tuning in to the latest TV preacher instead of studying the teaching and preaching of your shepherd, you are not a proper sheep. Sheep do not eat TV dinners.

Sheep heed the warnings of the shepherd. If the shepherd says 'don't', then sheep shouldn't. If the shepherd says 'do', then the sheep should. Is your shepherd always having to preach about the same subject? Then someone is not heeding! Just be sure it's not you holding the flock back from moving forward!

Sheep must bear good fruit. Are you bearing fruit after your own kind? It is sheep who beget sheep, not the shepherd. Get out there and start sharing the gospel. Get someone saved. Get them into the fellowship of believers. Disciple them. Bear fruit that remains. Or are you just barren?

Sheep allow the shepherd to shear them. This is two-fold. First, the shepherd ALWAYS profits from his sheep. I am not talking about the tithe - that is for the church. I am talking about giving to your shepherd. It should, at some point, be money. But it can also be in other ways. Cut his grass, wash his car, pay for his dry-cleaning. the list goes on and on. If you can't think of something that's appropriate, just give your shepherd some money. The second way is that when sheep are sheared, they are saved from sickness and death. Sometimes shearing hurts. The shepherd will shear from the pulpit on Sunday, cutting away that wool that has you bound up and unable to move freely. If you pay attention on Sunday, you shouldn't always need a counseling session.

Get sheared! Give it up!

Next Post: What Kind of Sheep are You?

Weekend Worship

2010-02-27T01:48:00.000-05:00

Broken Fellowship

2010-02-24T07:32:00.000-05:00

Breaking fellowship is a very sensitive topic. Breaking fellowship can be the spiritual equivalent of ripping off your own arm. I know that sounds dramatic, but it's true. You have gotten used to your arm. It is a part of your body. You have many uses for it. If you lost your arm, you would miss it. Worse yet, you are the one that is going to have to remove it. Breaking fellowship is not something that should ever be taken lightly. In fact, for the new believer, I was not even sure that this was an appropriate topic. However, somewhere along the walk, you may encounter a situation for which this knowledge will be needed.

[As for] a man who is factious [a heretical sectarian and cause of divisions], after admonishing him a first and second time, reject [him from your fellowship and have nothing more to do with him], Well aware that such a person has utterly changed (is perverted and corrupted); he goes on sinning [though he] is convicted of guilt and self-condemned.
Titus 3:10-11 AMP

I appeal to you, brethren, to be on your guard concerning those who create dissensions and difficulties and cause divisions, in opposition to the doctrine (the teaching) which you have been taught. [I warn you to turn aside from them, to] avoid them.
Romans 16:17 AMP

Again, breaking of fellowship requires very careful consideration. This is something may never be required of someone in their walk with God. You may never encounter a situation where you need to break fellowship with a person or body of believers. However, the Word is very clear on what to do in such situations. We are not to be in fellowship with those who carry out heretical teachings and practices.

Heresy is defined by Webster as: Dissent or deviation from a dominant theory, opinion, or practice. An opinion, doctrine, or practice contrary to the truth or to generally accepted beliefs or standards.

So, truly, breaking fellowship for this reason would not be in the best interest of a new believer, since that believer really has not had the chance to have a 'dominant practice' or 'generally accepted beliefs'. As a new believer, stick with the one who evangelized you and is discipling you, whenever possible, until you establish a relationship, on a pastoral level, with your church leader. Even if the one you are with is a bit off the charts, God will honor your faithfulness.

Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.
2 Thessalonians 3:6 KJV

We should break fellowship with any believer who is walking out of the Will of God. This is not to say that someone who sins is automatically cut off. If that were to happen, churches would need revolving doors! But someone who continually is out of order, (see previous post), should be cut off. Always leave room for reconciliation and redemption.

Read Ephesians 4: 1-13
Differences in doctrine are not reasons for breaking fellowship unless it deters or attacks the basic foundation of redemption being found in Christ Jesus.

No one should be received into the fellowship of a church without having received Christ. This is not to say that non-believers are not welcome. Indeed, non-believers need the gospel. But fellowship is more intimate and only intended for those who are in the body already.

I can not emphasize enough that this is a very serious matter if ever undertaken. Leaving a church because you didn't like what the preacher said is not breaking fellowship, it's just disobedience. Leaving because someone looked at you wrong or didn't greet you one day is not breaking fellowship, it's the spirit of offense. My wife and I had to break fellowship because of a denominational change which put our local body in fellowship with a national organization which acknowledged the ordination of homosexuals. It was clear cut for us. It was terribly difficult, nonetheless. Breaking fellowship is a major issue, a major decision, a major change. Do not let it takes minor amounts of consideration.

Look for 'Weekend Worship' -> coming up next!

Weekend Worship

2010-02-20T01:45:00.000-05:00

Fornicators and Drunks: Brace Yourselves!

2010-02-17T06:32:00.000-05:00

As we continue this look at those we should not fellowship with as believers, I want to remind us of one thing. This blog was initially intended for the new believer, in order to disciple them in the way. I acknowledge that not every believer will have freedom from all sinful behavior manifested in their lives at conversion.

That being said, the following posts may convict you of sin. You may find that you yourself are on the 'no fellowship list'. Do not be afraid. If you are truly seeking after God, He will honor your hunger and set you free. Repent of sin that is revealed and ask Him to change your heart. Set your affections on Him.

I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators: Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world. But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.
1 Corinthians 5:9-13 KJV

Remember first what Paul says in verse 10. His instructions refer to the fellowship of believers with believers that fall into the categories he is about to list; not unbelievers. That is not to say that you should be hanging out in the bars with the drunks of this world, but the danger lies in yoking yourself with one who calls themselves by the Name of Christ and yet is still in sin in these areas.

We are not to associate with fornicators. A fornicator is anyone who has illicit sexual relationships. Any sexual activity outside the bonds of marriage is fornication. Sexual activity by a married person outside of their own marriage covenant is adultery. Adultery is fornication. If you are in sin in this area, you should repent quickly, be forgiven and not continue in sin.

We are not to fellowship with those who are covetous; who have an inordinate desire or greed.

We are not to fellowship with extortionists. An extortionist is one who obtains gain from others through manipulation, abuse of their authority or oppression; a thief and a robber.

We are not to be yoked with idolaters. Idolatry is when you place something else above the place of Christ. If someone is devoted to someone or something so much that it takes the place of God, they are in sin in this area. The worship of Mary above the place of Christ as mediator for us is idolatry. The Word says that we have only one mediator and that that mediator is Christ.

We are not to associate with believers who are railers. A railer is one who uses profanity, is verbally abusive, slanderous, a gossip, hateful and hurtful in their speech. If you know a believer like this - stay away. You will be like who you spend time with.

Steer clear of drunkards. That one should be self-explanatory. A drunkard is anyone who drinks habitually; even if they refer to it as social drinking. I know of whole churches where this is acceptable. I personally don't drink at all. My wife doesn't drink. We don't believe that believers should drink at all. To me, drinking is no less than idolatry. Most people I know who drink, do so in order to reach a certain mental, emotional, or physical state. No beverage can get me into a better mental, physical or emotional state than being in the presence of the Holy Spirit. In fact, the Bible tells us to be drunk in the Spirit! Cool! I have been drunk in the Spirit many times - three days ago, in fact!

If you have found yourself on this list, remember my admonishment at the beginning of the post: Repent. Do it quickly.

Next post: Broken Fellowship

Weekend Worship

2010-02-13T13:26:00.000-05:00

DANGER: KEEP OUT - Fellowship to Avoid

2010-02-10T05:59:00.000-05:00

We've determined that we are to be in fellowship with God and the Body of believers and we've discussed two kinds of fell-NO-ships. Let's look at some more.

False Religions

Read 2 Peter 2:1-4 and you will see what is meant by false religions and the rest of this chapter goes on to explain how to recognize them. False religions will attribute salvation to another beside Jesus Christ as God or may even say that salvation isn't necessary or possible, indicating instead the concept of re-incarnation or 'death as the end' of it all. False religions may also be christian in appearance but will exalt others, or their own concepts above Jesus Christ.

Even within truly Christian faiths, false doctrine and teachings have emerged over centuries or even the past few years. This brings us to another type of fellowship to avoid.

False Teaching

Anyone who runs on ahead [of God] and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ [who is not content with what He taught] does not have God; but he who continues to live in the doctrine (teaching) of Christ [does have God], he has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine [is disloyal to what Jesus Christ taught], do not receive him [do not accept him, do not welcome or admit him] into [your] house or bid him Godspeed or give him any encouragement. For he who wishes him success [who encourages him, wishing him Godspeed] is a partaker in his evil doings.
2 John 1:9-11 AMP

As my Pastor would say: That is self-explanatory.

Next Post: Fornicators and Drunks - brace yourselves!

Weekend Worship

2010-02-06T13:24:00.000-05:00

Fell-NO-ship - Enter at Your Own Risk

2010-02-03T01:09:00.000-05:00

We left the topic of fellowship kind of out in the open. We never talked about fell-NO-ship! What?!?!? What is THAT?

Just as in talking about fellowship, we discussed who we needed to fellowship with; God and believers, we also need to discuss who NOT to fellowship with. Sometimes, you may find that there are certain people, who, based on their practices, behavior and/or faith, you should not be in fellowship with. Sometimes, it will just be a practice or behavior of your own, that needs to cahnge or be 'out of fellowship'.

That being said, you may find that some of which is included in the following list may apply to others and some may apply to yourself. They are all elements of behavior and practice with which believers should not be in fellowship.

Unclean or satanic spirits

But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.
1Co 10:20

Those of unrighteousness or darkness

Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
2Co 6:14

Let me comment a bit to clarify the last reference. This scripture does not say that you can not associate with unbelievers at all. Indeed if believers did that, I would say very few of us would be saved today. What the scripture refers to is being 'yoked together'. When cattle are yoked together, they are attached without the possibilty of being able to leave one another. They are yoked together for the same purpose. If a farmer yokes two cattle together, he does not expect one to plow the north field while the other is busy in the south field. They are expected to stick it out together, labor together, in the same field, for the same purpose, to achieve the same goal. There is no way an unbeliever can be expected to labor together with a believer. They do not have the same focus. This concept of avoiding an unequal yoking can be applied to marriage as well as business partnerships. In it's simplest form, it can be applied to friendships as well.

As you give some thought to that, we'll be getting the next entry ready.

Are you unequally yoked?

Weekend Worship

2010-01-31T00:42:00.000-05:00

The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.
Proverbs 18:10 KJV

Weekend Worship

2010-01-30T00:38:00.000-05:00

I Will Not be Moved!

To Fellowship or not to Fellowship? That is the Question - Part Two

2010-01-28T12:42:00.000-05:00

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
1 John 1:7

If we are truly believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, we have fellowship with each other. Whether or not that fellowship manifests itself in our life is up to us. If you never seek out a church home, if you never assemble yourself with other believers, you will always be missing that very important component of your new walk. There is no other way to have fellowship with believers than to hang out with them. Fellowship with believers is imperative to your walk being successful. You will always struggle through things until you get this right. The fellowship of believers is meant to prosper both the individual and the body; spiritually and practically. Fellowship with believers meets both spiritual and social needs.

And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
Acts 2:46-47

Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.
Romans 12:12-13

And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
Hebrews 10:24-25

God's intent for the church is that every believer be in fellowship with Him and with each other. In this, the believer's lifestyle is in balance and every area of need is met.

Fellowship with God and each other goes together. 1 John 1:6-7 (Look it up!) shows that we must have fellowship with God in order to have fellowship with each other. 1 John 4:20-21 (Look it up!) further illustrates the point that our love for fellow believers must accompany our love for God.

Next Post ---> Fell-NO-ship - Enter at Your Own Risk

To Fellowship or not to Fellowship? That is the Question - Part One

2010-01-26T01:25:00.000-05:00

As a believer, there are two kinds of fellowship which are to be desired.

First, you must be in fellowship with God. Say "How does one do that?"

Thanks for asking. Fellowship with God takes place through prayer, praise, worship and obedience to God. Let's look at the Word:

That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.
1 John 1:3

Our fellowship is with the Father.

God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
1 Corinthians 1:9

We are called unto the fellowship of His Son.

If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies...
Philippians 2:1

We have fellowship of the Spirit.

Once fellowship with God is established, you must also be in fellowship with the body of believers. Fellowship must be a part of church life and every believer must be a part of fellowship. Becoming a part of a fellowship is not usually something we would jump at the chance to do. It involves, for a young believer, being vulnerable. No believer is perfect, therefore no church is either. But there are some real good ones out there. A new believer comes into fellowship with most of their baggage still attached. That's alright. There are seasoned believers in the fellowship to help you along the way. They have been down the same path you are on now.

We will look more at the fellowship of believers in the next post. In the meantime, do you have a church home?

Weekend Worship

2010-01-24T04:13:00.000-05:00

Weekend Worship

2010-01-23T00:40:00.000-05:00

Fellowship

2010-01-20T12:40:00.000-05:00

The word 'fellowship' is found many times throughout the Bible. In 1 Cor. 1:9, we are called unto the fellowship of Jesus Christ. The Word also admonishes us to refrain from fellowshipping with those that are not believers and are workers of unrighteousness. There are certain bonds that are formed through fellowship, therefore fellowship among believers is beneficial while a believing person's fellowship with non-believers can be very detrimental.

When I was in recovery, (hey, I wasn't always saved, ya know), one thing that I learned was that in order to truly get free from my addictions, I needed to change people places and things. As a new believer, I also learned that I needed to change my thoughts and ideas also. That was all part of fellowship. You become who you spend time with. Fellowship goes deep; it includes not only physical fellowship, but spiritual fellowship as well.

Now, you are going to have to learn some Greek. I do not need you to learn how to say these words. This is just to understand that in Greek, there are several different kinds of fellowship.

KOINONIA - Close association; communion; close relationship.

This is the word most frequently used in the Bible for fellowship.

METOCHE - partnership; a holding with; a sharing.
SUKGO - to be a joint partaker with.

Next post: "To Fellowship or not to Fellowship? That is teh Question."

Moving Forward - What do I do Now?

2010-01-18T23:20:00.000-05:00

We're done discussing baptism. If you feel that you want to be baptized, you can contact us on facebook or ask your pastor. If you do not have a pastor, then this next set of teachings will be beneficial to you.

I want to remind you to really seek God through these teachings. He is able to speak to you in many ways. The Word says that He rewards them that seek Him diligently. If you doubt that, try it out and see what happens.

Anyway, this next set of teachings is about fellowship. Now I know felloewship is "christianese", so let me say it another way - hanging out with God and His people <-that's fellowship, basically. You'll see. Read this post first to get started and I'll see you in the next post.

Here are some other posts if you want to review the topics we've covered so far:

The Word
Repentance and Faith
Water Baptism

Weekend Worship

2010-01-16T12:03:00.000-05:00

...but what IS it really?

2010-01-11T23:03:00.000-05:00

In baptism, the Word of God says we are baptized into the Lord's death.

Are you ignorant of the fact that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?
Romans 6:3

...burial

Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
Romans 6:4

...and resurrection

For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:
Romans 6:5

Even the act of baptizing someone (full immersion) resembles all of this scriptural truth. Going down into the water (death), going under the water (burial), coming out of the water (resurrection).

There are many doctrinal arguments as to whether someone should be baptized in the Name of Jesus or in the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. I think these kinds of differences between believers is neither pleasing to God nor beneficial to the Body. Albeit, i offer the following scriptural references:

Acts 2:38
Acts 8:12
Acts 10:48
Acts 19:5

In water baptism, we recieve the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ and are clothed in Him.

For as many [of you] as were baptized into Christ [into a spiritual union and communion with Christ, the Anointed One, the Messiah] have put on (clothed yourselves with) Christ.
Galatians 3:27 AMP

A New Testament believer enters into a covenant relationship, which becomes tangible through water baptism. As the "old man" is cut away and buried, we experience a new life in Christ.

Weekend Worship

2010-01-10T00:00:00.000-05:00

Weekend Worship

2010-01-09T23:47:00.000-05:00

Can I be Baptized?

2010-01-08T22:41:00.000-05:00

Can I be baptized? Well, let's see if you meet the requirements that God has set forth in His Word.

And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
Acts 2:40-41

It says here that the people heard the Word of God, received it and were baptized. Have you heard the Word of God and received it gladly?

If ye love me, keep my commandments.
John 14:15

If you have in fact, received the Word of God with joy then you are willing to obey it. Are you willing to obey the Word of God?

Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Acts 2:37-38

Has the Word of God "pricked your heart"? Have you, by the Word preached and taught to you, been convicted of sin? "Convicted" - a conviction in your heart that sin is displeasing to God and there fore should be avoided at all costs. I know we speak Christianese sometimes. So, have you been convicted of sin?

Have you repented of that sin? Repentance is not just a change of heart, but a change of mind also. It is doing a complete 180 degree turn, stop going our way and start following God's way.

He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.
Mark 16:16

Do you believe in the Lord Jesus Christ?

So, can you be baptized?

What Happens at Baptism?

2010-01-07T22:38:00.000-05:00

Well, you go under the water. Besides that, let's see...

In baptism, there is an inward work that takes part in the heart of a believer. Public baptism, and all baptisms should be public in some way, are an acknowledgment of your faith in Christ. It is your testimony before the world that you are choosing to identify yourself with Him. In baptism, you are acknowledging that you have put off the old man and put on Christ. While it is an outward sign, there is also an inward change. The Holy Spirit performs a spiritual circumcision of the heart.

Circumcision in the Old Testament was a command (Gen 17:10). It was a foreshadowing of that which was to come.

Go check these passages:

Genesis 17:11
Genesis 17:13
Deuteronomy 30:5-6

And look at this one:
Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no more stiffnecked.
Deuteronomy 10:16

Circumcision of the foreskin was a sign of the covenant between God and man, so then is circumcision of the heart in baptism a sign of the New Covenant. The body of sin is 'cut away' with the old desires and lusts. the true sign of a believer in the New Covenant is a circumcised heart.

For he is not a [real] Jew who is only one outwardly and publicly, nor is [true] circumcision something external and physical. But he is a Jew who is one inwardly, and [true] circumcision is of the heart, a spiritual and not a literal [matter]. His praise is not from men but from God.
Romans 2:28-29 AMP

We must have a circumcised heart.

That circumcision without hands is performed at baptism.

In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;
Colossians 2:11-13

Water Baptism

2010-01-06T00:00:00.000-05:00

More teaching on Baptism...

Peter commanded it. Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.
Acts 10:47-48

Paul baptized believers. In the following passage, Paul found people (disciples), who had placed their faith in Jesus Christ.

And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. And all the men were about twelve.
Acts 19:1-7

Matthew Henry's commentary puts it very well:

"Paul enquired how they came to be baptized, if they knew nothing of the Holy Ghost; for, if they were baptized by any of Christ's ministers, they were instructed concerning the Holy Ghost, and were baptized in his name. 'Know you not that Jesus being glorified, consequently the Holy Ghost is given? unto what then were you baptized?

This is strange and unaccountable. What! baptized, and yet know nothing of the Holy Ghost? Surely your baptism was a nullity, if you know nothing of the Holy Ghost; for it is the receiving of the Holy Ghost that is signified and sealed by that washing of regeneration.

Ignorance of the Holy Ghost is as inconsistent with a sincere profession of Christianity as ignorance of Christ is.' ... They own that they were baptized unto John's baptism ... that is, as I take it, they were baptized in the name of John, not by John himself (he was far enough from any such thought), but by some weak, well-meaning disciple of his, that ignorantly kept up his name as the head of a party, retaining the spirit and notion of those disciples of his that were jealous of the growth of Christ's interest, and complained to him of it, (John 3:26).

Some one or more of these, that found themselves much edified by John's baptism of repentance for the remission of sins, not thinking that the kingdom of heaven, which he spoke of as at hand, was so very near as it proved, ran away with that notion, rested in what they had, and thought they could not do better than to persuade others to do so too; and so, ignorantly, in a blind zeal for John's doctrine, they baptized here and there ... in John's name, or, as it is here expressed, unto John's baptism, looking no further themselves, nor directing those that they baptized any further."

In short, the believers that Paul came across, although believing in Christ (as a soon coming Messiah), were baptized by persons and into a faith that did NOT have the full revelation of Jesus Christ.

That was my case. And that is why I chose to be baptized again; into Christ.

Water Baptism

2010-01-05T00:00:00.000-05:00

The teachings get a little more serious from here on. Post any questions. I'll be happy to answer what I can.

Water baptism, as the New Testament teaches it, is the means by which a new believer is united with Christ. When I was saved, I had a concern as to whether or not I needed to be baptized. I had been baptized as an infant into the faith of my parents and did not know if that would 'carry over'. The counsel I received from my pastor at the time was that if I felt that my infant baptism was sufficient, then I did not need to be baptized again. That was a very clever answer. Without the full knowledge of what baptism truly represents, my original baptism would be sufficient. And that is how I left it. I eventually moved and therefore changed churches. I came, at some point, to an understanding of water baptism and decided to be baptized. OK, I'll teach it and you come to your own conclusion.

For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
Galatians 3:27-28

That is what baptism does; it unites you with Christ (you put Him on) and the body of believers (ye all are one). Take a look at verse 27 in the Amplified version:

For as many [of you] as were baptized into Christ [into a spiritual union and communion with Christ, the Anointed One, the Messiah] have put on (clothed yourselves with) Christ.
Galatians 3:27 AMP

Baptism is more that some sort of ritual or ceremony. Anywhere you find baptism in the New Testament, it is never spoken of as a singular act. It includes the entire redemptive work of the Lord.

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye 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 yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
Acts 2:38-41

The word 'baptize' means to dip or immerse. In order to be baptized, you must be dipped or immersed in water. A sprinkling is not the same, and as you follow this teaching, you'll see why.

Let's look at Jesus' teachings on baptism.

First, he goes to John to be baptized himself:

Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbade him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?
Matthew 3:13-14

John's like, "Wait a minute, Jesus. You've got this backwards. You're supposed to be baptizing me." I don't think John had a complete revelation of what he was doing. Here he is baptizing all these people and Jesus comes along and John tries to make Him do it his way. It's not really suggested that you try to make God fulfill your calling YOUR way. Listen up and see what He says and then do it HIS way. Look at how Jesus answers him:

But Jesus replied to him, Permit it just now; for this is the fitting way for [both of] us to fulfill all righteousness [that is, to perform completely whatever is right]. Then he permitted Him.
Matthew 3:15 AMP

Jesus basically says that in order to fulfill ALL righteousness (which is what He came to do), that, first, Jesus himself must be baptized, and John himself must do it. Jesus clearly supported what John was doing, to him. It is then significant also, that both the Father and the Spirit put Their own stamps of approval on this event.

And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
Matthew 3:16-17

God has ordained baptism for all believers.

(to be continued)

Good Vibrations

2010-01-04T14:24:00.000-05:00

Here is a great link for some good music to listen to while on the 'puter:

Elijah Streams Radio

Click on the 'Listen Now' button.

Weekend Worship

2010-01-03T14:17:00.000-05:00

Weekend Worship

2010-01-02T14:12:00.000-05:00

Repentance and Faith Review

2009-12-30T14:17:00.000-05:00

All teachings on Repentance and Faith can be found under the Repentance and Faith tag. You can review them and then test your knowledge here.

What is repentance?

Why is repentance important?

What is justification?

How do we become justified?

What are the results of justification?

What is faith?

Why is faith important?

The Importance of Faith

2009-12-29T12:23:00.000-05:00

Without faith, you can not be saved. Without faith, it is impossible to please God. Without faith, you can not make it. Faith is what got you started on this journey, and you will need faith to continue on and reach the desired end. Faith is important.

We are saved by faith. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
Ephesians 2:8

We live by faith. Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.
Hebrews 10:38

We are kept by faith. Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
1 Peter 1:5

We are healed by faith. And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.
James 5:15

We can not please God without faith. But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Hebrews 11:6

We overcome by faith. Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
Ephesians 6:16

Faith

2009-12-28T09:54:00.000-05:00

According to Webster's dictionary faith is:

1. Belief and trust in and loyalty to God
2. Belief in the traditional doctrines of a religion
3. Firm belief in something for which there is no proof
4. Complete trust
5. Something that is believed especially with strong conviction

Hebrews 11:1 puts it this way:

NOW FAITH is the assurance (the confirmation, the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses].
Hebrews 11:1 AMP

The Word of God can increase your faith. Faith indeed comes by the Word of God:

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Romans 10:17

Faith comes, enters your heart, your very being, through the hearing of the Word of God. There are several ways we can receive the Word of God:

Preaching - But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach;
Romans 10:8

Through the written Word - Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures,
Luke 24:45

In times of prayer - Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.
Jeremiah 33:3

A word of exhortation by another believer - Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
Colossians 3:16

In dreams or visions - By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Hebrews 11:5-6

Audible Voice of God - And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.
Acts 9:4-6

Weekend Worship

2009-12-27T13:15:00.000-05:00

Weekend Worship

2009-12-26T13:14:00.000-05:00

Justification

2009-12-24T16:22:00.000-05:00

Because man rebelled against God and entered into sin, there is a separation between man and God. We are all sinners by nature and are therefore condemned by a just, holy and righteous God.

As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.
Romans 3:10-12

The only way for us to be reconciled back to God is for Him to transfer our guilt upon Himself. The death of Jesus Christ made this transfer, forgiveness and reconciliation a possibility.

For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
2 Corinthians 5:21

We receive justification by the grace of God (Romans 3:24, Titus 3:7), through the blood of Jesus Christ (Romans 5:9, Hebrews 9:22), and by faith (Romans 5:1-2, Galatians 2:16).

Justification results in the following:

Removal of the penalty of sin:
Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered.
Romans 4:7

Removal of condemnation:
There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
Romans 8:1

Peace with God:
Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:
Romans 5:1

The righteousness of Jesus Christ is ours:
For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
2 Corinthians 5:21

What's in it for Me?

2009-12-23T01:24:00.000-05:00

Repentance provides JUSTIFICATION; right standing with God. Who doesn't want that?

From Webster's Dictionary:
Justify: a : to administer justice to
b archaic : absolve
c : to judge, regard, or treat as righteous and worthy of salvation

When God justifies a person, He acquits them; not on the grounds of the person's innocence, but of His own love and grace.

Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.
Romans 3:20-26

Justification therefore, is a change in man's standing before or relation to God. It is an act of God that frees repentant sinners from guilt and the penalty of sin.

That's what's in repentance for us.

Repentance

2009-12-22T00:37:00.000-05:00

One major hindrance to true repentance will be self-confidence. While self-confidence is an excellent trait to have for life in general, it can get in the way when it comes to repentance before God. True repentance calls for a renunciation of self-confidence and it will initiate a God-confidence; being confident in God to meet all your needs and fulfill all your desires, believing then, that His Way is the only way.

All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.
Isaiah 53:6

Our own way will lead us astray. Following our own ideas, desires and direction will lead us away from the Power needed to live a victorious life in Christ. Following our own way will put us in a place void of God's protection and blessing. We need God in order to make it. We need to follow His Way to stay with Him. Repentance is where that all starts.

And the children of Israel said unto the LORD, We have sinned: do thou unto us whatsoever seemeth good unto thee; deliver us only, we pray thee, this day. And they put away the strange gods from among them, and served the LORD: and his soul was grieved for the misery of Israel.
Judges 10:15-16

If we follow the example of the Israelites in this scripture, we see three things which are necessary for repentance.

First, we see confession. Confession is self-explanatory. You must say, with your mouth, what you have done wrong. Confess your sin before God. Yes, He knows what you did - or didn't do, but you must confess it to Him. There is so much power in the spoken word. We will look at this another time.

Secondly, we see a turning away from sin. If you are truly repentant, you will make every effort to not continue in sin; especially the same sin. In most 12-step programs for addiction recovery, there is a common teaching that gives instruction on how to effect true change in your life.

Change people, places and things.

There may be certain people, places or things that you need to change in your life in order to bring about the change that you really desire in order to bring about and demonstrate true repentance.

Third, they chose to serve God. This is where you start new habits, make new friends, take up new responsibilities. All of this shows a placing of real confidence in God and discarding your own self-confidence.

The Bible says that we must repent and turn towards God (Acts 26:19-20). We must turn from our idols and serve God. (1 Thessalonians 1:8-9)

Repentance

2009-12-21T03:04:00.000-05:00

Hebrews 6:1&2 mentions two very basic and foundational truths; repentance (from dead works) and faith (towards God).

Repentance is the first step in building a successful foundation in your new life as a believer. Faith towards God is what the Christian walk is all about.

First, God commands that man repent. There are no 'if's 'and's or 'but's about it.

And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:
Acts 17:30

Repentance and Faith are both gifts given to us by God so that we may turn from our ways and follow His Way. Repentance and Faith are not one time deals, either. they are something that we practice throughout our Christian walk. You may have repented before God when you were saved. You will need to repent again. You may have had faith to receive Christ when you were saved. you will need faith to believe on Him again. Repentance and Faith work actively throughout your walk and sanctification.

Repentance means a "change of mind"; a change of heart or attitude. It means to have a radical change in one's own heart toward sin and the things of God. It involves a conscious moral decision to forsake sin and enter into fellowship with God.

Repentance is commanded by God (Acts 17:30)
Repentance is essential for salvation (Mark 1:15)

It is a gift from God.

He must correct his opponents with courtesy and gentleness, in the hope that God may grant that they will repent and come to know the Truth [that they will perceive and recognize and become accurately acquainted with and acknowledge it],
2 Timothy 2:25 AMP

God desires it for all men.

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
2 Peter 3:9

Video - A Letter to Satan

2009-12-20T16:59:00.000-05:00

Weekend Worship

2009-12-19T01:45:00.000-05:00

I have met so many people who have a difficult time relating to the love of a heavenly Father simply because they never had a good example of a father in their earthly version.

Be assured, your heavenly Father loves you.

More Scripture-finding Tips

2009-12-18T02:58:00.000-05:00

Our first tip was that you memorize the first five books of the Bible - OK not the WHOLE THING, just their names!

If you have accomplished that, your next task would be to memorize the history books that follow. You don't need to remember what order they come in at this point, just that they fall right after the first five books of the Bible. They are in 3 sets. the first set is:

Joshua
Judges
Ruth

For the next set, each one is 2 books, First Samuel, Second Samuel, etc.

*Samuel
*Kings
*Chronicles

The next set is:

Ezra
Nehemiah
Esther

What do You Know Now?

2009-12-17T02:55:00.000-05:00

By now, you should be able to answer the following questions:

What is the nature of God?
What are God's attributes?
What is the 'trinity'?
Who is the author of the Bible?
What will practicing the Word of God do in my life?
What is God's purpose for giving me His Word?

The Word - Review

2009-12-15T13:48:00.000-05:00

Before we move on to our next teaching topic, it would be helpful for you if you review the teachings on the Word of God.

You can find them all under the tag 'theWord'.

The Purpose of God's Word - Part Three

2009-12-14T01:30:00.000-05:00

God's Word was written for our learning.

For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.
Romans 15:4

God's Word was written for our admonition; training us through instruction and warning.

Now all these things happened unto them for examples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
1 Corinthians 10:11

Since God's Word holds so much purpose in our lives, we are to be 'doers' of the Word and not just 'hearers' only.

For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
James 1:23-25

Weekend Worship

2009-12-13T00:32:00.000-05:00

Weekend Worship

2009-12-12T01:51:00.000-05:00

If the devil only knew what you were gonna be after the storm, he wouldn't have even bothered you!

The Purpose of God's Word - Part Two

2009-12-11T01:15:00.000-05:00

God's Word is an instruction manual for spiritual discernment and for living a holy and acceptable life before God. As a young believer, I was taught that the Bible was God's:

B asic
I nstructions
B efore
L eaving
E arth

Every Scripture is God-breathed (given by His inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God's will in thought, purpose, and action), So that the man of God may be complete and proficient, well fitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 AMP

Doctrine
Reproof
Correction
Instruction in righteousness

Need any of that? All believers do. The Bible supplies that for us.

The Purpose of God's Word - Part One

2009-12-10T12:42:00.000-05:00

God's Word serves many purposes. We'll take a look at a few of them in these next posts.

God's Word authenticates the divinity of Jesus Christ.

But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.
John 20:31

These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.
1 John 5:13

Additionally, the Word of God offers us the evidence that Jesus Christ fulfilled over 350 messianic prophecies. Professor Peter Stoner (1888-1980) was Chairman of the Departments of Mathematics and Astronomy at Pasadena City College until 1953, and Chairman of the Science Division of Westmont College from 1953 to 1957. Stoner calculated the probability of one man fulfilling only a handful of the over 300 Messianic prophecies. In 1944, he published his research results in Science Speaks: Scientific Proof of the Accuracy of Prophecy and the Bible. Stoner concluded that the probability of one person fulfilling just eight of the specific prophecies was one chance in 10¹⁷ (one followed by 17 zeros). How about one person fulfilling just 48 of the over 300 prophecies? Stoner calculated these odds at one chance in 10¹⁵⁷ -- way beyond statistical impossibility!
( Peter Stoner, Science Speaks: Scientific Proof of the Accuracy of Prophecy and the Bible, 1944, 109-10.)

A good site for more on this can be found here.

God's Word as a Source of Power

2009-12-09T23:05:00.000-05:00

It's your turn to look up some scriptures. We are gong to be looking at God's Word and how it is a source of power for our lives.

Hebrews 4:12
God's Word is a dividing power, as a sword. Many times, when I am witnessing, whether it be to family and friends or complete strangers, even though they may seem to agree to disagree, when I declare what the Word of God says, it immediately divides them from me. They become aggressive and defensive, separating their opinions even farther from mine. I think this is mainly because of the next 'power' in God's Word.

James 1:22-25
God's Word is a reflecting power, as a mirror. The Word of God will not just point out your imperfections, but it will make you take a good look at yourself. Most of the time, when we look in the mirror, we do not look at ourselves in the eyes. We look at all the rest of our face or body or clothes, but not into our eyes. If you want to get serious or intimate with someone, you look them in the eyes. Knowing what the Word of God says about our sinful nature, knowing the experience we have had with Him by our sides, stop reading this blog and go to a mirror and LOOK YOURSELF IN THE EYES. I'll wait.

Quite a difference from just looking at your appearance, isn't it?

See you next time.

Thank you!

2009-12-08T00:02:00.000-05:00

I wanted to say thanks to our growing list of followers on Facebook. You are all special to us. Please know that we are praying for you and look forward to your comments when you are able to make them.

Stay with God. He will stay with you!

What's in it for Me?

2009-12-07T00:30:00.000-05:00

What do I get from reading the Word of God?

When we receive His Word and appropriate it in our own lives, it produces, and shall prosper in the area which He sends it to prosper in.

So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
Isaiah 55:11

His Word will cleanse our ways.

Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.
Psalms 119:9

His Word produces faith!

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Romans 10:17

His Word begins a process of change. Our minds come into harmony with God's thoughts and purposes for our lives.

The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.
Psalms 19:7

His Word brings peace that can be obtained in NO OTHER WAY.

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:7

For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.
Isaiah 55:12

Weekend Worship

2009-12-06T01:00:00.000-05:00

Weekend Worship

2009-12-05T00:48:00.000-05:00

Who Wrote the Bible?

2009-12-03T00:20:00.000-05:00

The Holy Spirit is the Author of the Word of God. God used man as a vehicle to make His revelation known.

Men and brethren, this Scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.
Acts 1:16

And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by Isaiah the prophet unto our fathers,
Acts 28:25

Prophets, writers of scripture, such as David, Isaiah and others were prompted to speak by the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost is the source of infallible revelation. God's Word has not been devised by man's intellect.

There is always this argument that I hear frequently: 'Man messed up the Bible through all the translations. They added stuff to meet their own agendas.'

This argument does not stand. First, it implies that there once was something known as God's Word, which at one time, was perfect or, not 'messed up'. That point alone acknowledges that God is real, powerful, infallible and can indeed speak to man. And that truth, admitted by their own argument, leads us to this: God is powerful enough, then, to maintain the integrity of His Word to man, regardless of how many pens may have written it, or mouths may have spoken it. If we believe that God has something to say to us, then we believe that He is powerful enough to make sure we get the full message. He watches over His Word.

So shall My word be that goes forth out of My mouth: it shall not return to Me void [without producing any effect, useless], but it shall accomplish that which I please and purpose, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
Isaiah 55:11 AMP

Then said the Lord to me, You have seen well, for I am alert and active, watching over My word to perform it.
Jeremiah 1:12 AMP

When it comes to the Word, God's got His own back, thank you very much.

Weekend Worship

2009-12-03T00:01:00.000-05:00

From now on we will post videos on Saturdays and Sundays from YouTube or similar sites. These videos will mostly be in the genre of Praise and Worship. Enjoy the presence of God in your walk.

What does God have to do with the Bible?

2009-12-02T00:58:00.000-05:00

Get out your Bible.

Read 2Timothy 3:15, John 20:31 & 1John 5:3

God's Word is the revelation of Jesus Christ to man.

You can even find Jesus in the Old Testament. There are various place where God showed His plan to reconcile man unto Himself through Hid Son, Jesus Christ. Here is just one example which may be found in Exodus, chapter 12:

Speak ye unto all the congregation of Israel, saying, In the tenth day of this month they shall take to them every man a lamb, according to the house of their fathers, a lamb for a house: And if the household be too little for the lamb, let him and his neighbor next unto his house take it according to the number of the souls; every man according to his eating shall make your count for the lamb. Your lamb shall be without blemish, a male of the first year: ye shall take it out from the sheep, or from the goats:
Exodus 12:3-5 (emphasis mine)

And they shall take of the blood, and strike it on the two side posts and on the upper door post of the houses, wherein they shall eat it.
Exodus 12:7

For I will pass through the land of Egypt this night, and will smite all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgment: I am the LORD. And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt.
Exodus 12:12-13

For the LORD will pass through to smite the Egyptians; and when he seeth the blood upon the lintel, and on the two side posts, the LORD will pass over the door, and will not suffer the destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite you.
Exodus 12:23

And it came to pass, that at midnight the LORD smote all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh that sat on his throne unto the firstborn of the captive that was in the dungeon; and all the firstborn of cattle. And Pharaoh rose up in the night, he, and all his servants, and all the Egyptians; and there was a great cry in Egypt; for there was not a house where there was not one dead.
Exodus 12:29-30

And it came to pass the selfsame day, that the LORD did bring the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt by their armies.
Exodus 12:51

Jesus is our sacrificial Lamb.

Helpful Tools

2009-12-01T12:09:00.000-05:00

Here is the website we have been using for our daily readings:

Bible Gateway

Here is a GREAT tool to have on your computer:

E-Sword

What is the Trinity?

2009-11-30T11:55:00.000-05:00

"The word 'trinity' is found no where in the Bible." That is the excuse that those who do not believe in the triune nature of God will use to dispute it. Well, the word 'elephant' isn't in the Bible either, so...

In God there are three divine identities:

Father
Son
Holy Spirit

These three identities are distinct:

Father - Work of Creation (Genesis 1:1)
Son - Work of Redemption (Galatians 4:4-5)
Spirit - Work of Sanctification (1Peter 1:2)

Together, these three work to achieve God's purpose in the earth. (John 1:1, Deuteronomy 6:4, 1John 5:8)

Now, go look up the scriptures and read them for yourself. And check out Luke 3:22 where you will find all three of God's identities together, but separate.

Ooooh....a video.....

2009-11-29T11:53:00.000-05:00

The Importance of Fellowship

2009-11-28T15:26:00.000-05:00

1 Corinthians 1:9 says: God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

We are called into fellowship with Jesus Christ.

Acts 2:42-47 gives us a pattern for fellowship with each other.

Acts 2:42
And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

Be diligent and CONSISTENT in hearing the Word of God
Have fellowship in communion
Continue in fellowship through prayer

Acts 2:43
And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.

the result of effective fellowship

Acts 2:44
And all that believed were together, and had all things common;

Having all things in common (speaks of material wealth)

Acts 2:45
And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.

Speaks to giving - this is a part of fellowship

Acts 2:46
And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,

Be in one accord with singleness of heart (having no discord or strife)

Acts 2:47
Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

Abounding in praise and thanksgiving

The fellowship of believers is to prosper both the individual and the Body of Christ in two ways: spiritually and practically. It is vital, both for the Body of Christ and the individual believer, for fellowship to be a part of church life.

Q & A

2009-11-27T03:06:00.000-05:00

Time for you to put your question here. Is there a burning question you have had about your faith, the Word, life in general? Post it in the comments section and I will do my best to give you an answer.

How do I Tell Them?

2009-11-26T03:00:00.000-05:00

By now, someone has crossed your mind, who you think may not be going to heaven. When we first get saved, we are so over the top that we usually scare people away with our new-found faith. We want so badly to tell others that we push them away with 'the gospel'. God's message of love is so gentle. He is a gentleman. He does not push and neither should we.

If however, you come across someone to whom you need to explain what has happened to you, there are some simple scriptures to use. Note: if someone does not believe the Word of God is true, then you are dealing with foolishness and you will need more experience and knowledge of God and His Word before truly dealing with that person. But here are a few scriptures you can use to explain your conversion to others who are receptive to the Word of God.

For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
Romans 3:23

We all have sinned and fall short of God's purpose for our lives - to know Him and walk with Him.

For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Romans 6:23

Wages are just payment... due reward... what one has coming because of labor. The just payment for our sin is death. Death here means a spiritual disconnect. When we are still in our sin, we have no life with God. We are alive physically but dead spiritually. If we continue in that condition, we will be separated from God for all eternity.

But God demonstrates his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 5:8

In a demonstration of His love for us, He gave His own life.

For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
Romans 10:13

Pretty simple here: Call on Him and He will save you.

That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
Romans 10:9-10

That's it really. No rocket science; faith and confession is all it takes to become a child of God. Only believers will ever understand the change that takes place following the conversion experience. Give your testimony of what happened with you - the burden being lifted, the emptiness filled, the chains broken. Your testimony will be attractive to others and that will open their hearts to receive the Word of Truth.

The Word - Part 2

2009-11-25T12:44:00.000-05:00

Get out your Bible. If you do not have a Bible, tell us now. We will send you one.

We are going to be taking a look at some of the attributes of God.

After each attribute of God, I have listed a scripture. Find that scripture in your Bible and read it. Let God speak to you through His Word.

God is Eternal (Psalms 90:1-2)
God is Immutable (Unchangeable) ( Malachi 3:6)
God is Omnipotent (All-Powerful) (Jeremiah 32:17, Psalms 62:11)
God is Omniscient (All-knowing) (Psalms 139:1-4)
God is Omnipresent (Everywhere) (Jeremiah 23:23-24)
God is Holy (Leviticus 11:44-45)
God is Righteous (God's Holiness in action) (Romans 3:25-26)
God is Merciful (Exodus 34:6-7)

Tips on Finding Scriptures

2009-11-24T12:37:00.000-05:00

If you are going to be studying the Word of God, you should have some idea of how to find scriptures.

From time to time I will offer different tips on how to find the various books of the bible and different scriptures.

The Bible has a Table of Contents. Like all books, this can be found on one of the first few pages. Use it whenever you need it - really.

Memorize the first 5 books of the Bible. The proper name for these books is the Pentateuch. They are: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers & Deuteronomy. They were written by Moses.

What's with all the numbers? The Bible is divided into books. Each book is divided into chapters. Each chapter is divided into verses. And sometimes when referencing a part of a verse, a person may say 'a' or 'b'; 'a' being the first part of the verse, and 'b' being the second part of the verse. So if you are asked to turn to Psalms 23:2, that would be the book of Psalms, chapter 23, verse 2. If I was referring only to the second part of that verse, I would say Psalms 23:2b.

The Nature of God

2009-11-23T12:24:00.000-05:00

So who is this new found friend of yours? What should I expect from God?

Three main components of God are these:

God is Spirit. God is not limited to a physical body nor to our understanding of space and time.

God is a Spirit (a spiritual Being) and those who worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth (reality).
John 4:24 AMP

God is perfect.

Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
Matthew 5:48 KJV

God is personal. Your heavenly Father is concerned with your needs. He desires to make provision for His children.

Therefore humble yourselves [demote, lower yourselves in your own estimation] under the mighty hand of God, that in due time He may exalt you, Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully.
1 Peter 5:6-7 AMP

Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
Matthew 6:25-34 KJVR

Your God truly cares for you in a way that no human being has ever experienced apart from His love. Speaking from my own experience and walk with God: Give up ever trying to understand His love for you. It is incomprehensible. Just receive His love, regardless of whether or not you feel worthy of it. His sacrifice for you made you worthy. Now, just take it all in.

His nature is that of love.

The Word - Part 1

2009-11-22T15:40:00.000-05:00

OK. So now the teaching begins. If you are going to walk with God, you should have an understanding of His Word. This understanding is very important for our growth and development as Christians. God wants us to know Him and He has provided His Word for that purpose.

2 Timothy 3:16-17
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

God's Word is given to guide us into a knowledge of Him.

Acts 17:28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.

God Himself is our source of strength and sustenance.

Always Remember, Never Forget

2009-11-21T19:56:00.000-05:00

When you take that first step and receive Christ, the Spirit of God will bear witness to your Spirit that you have been saved.

The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
Romans 8:16

There was a time, either at the very moment of your conversion, or shortly thereafter, where the Spirit of God bore witness to you, confirmed in your heart, that what had happened to you, in you, and for you was indeed a real occurrence.

Never forget that moment. Always remember that you simply knew that you knew. There will be times in your walk with God when that moment and the memory of it will bring you through doubt, temptation or pain. The memory of that defining moment in your earthly life, at times, will bring you to your knees in repentance, in hope, in thanksgiving or in worship.

Not only was it the most important moment in your life, but it will be equally as important many times over.

Even with good friends around you, a loving church home, an annointed pastor, biblical counseling and powerful prayer, that moment will always be the one single moment you can look back on and say with assurance:

"God did it. He is real. I am His. I am a child of God."

Tell Someone

2009-11-21T16:33:00.000-05:00

It's important to tell someone who is also saved about your new found faith in Christ. It will serve a few purposes:

You can draw on support from other like-minded individuals
Someone will be praying for you
It may open a door for your new church home, if you do not have one already
You can learn from the experience, strength, and hope of someone else who has been down this road before

Both the woman at the well (John 4), and the Gadarene demoniac (Mark 5), went to tell others about their experience. The account of the woman says later that many of the Samaritans of that city believed on Jesus because of the woman's testimony.

You now have a testimony. Share it with someone.

It's All New

2009-11-20T12:37:00.000-05:00

Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come!

2 Corinthians 5:17

The title of this entry is two-fold.

This is the new blog.

The blog, "Staying in the Overflow", will help you walk the walk in your new life in Christ. You will find daily inspiration and teaching on how to 'do it'. We are here to help you, support you, care for you and pray for you. Life in Christ is no joke. If you've made the decision to follow Christ, you will need to know how to do it.

If you come faithfully each day, you will learn. You are now a disciple; a student. Study hard and you will be promoted, for promotion comes from the Lord.

Oh yeah, one more thing: Have fun!