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Volume 70 Number 7 Lubbock, Texas 79493 Copyright $12.00 Per Year July 2002 |
In Him We Live Do Not Frustrate the Grace of God The True Light The Church in the Storms of Error Grace The Gospel Pay-Off The "Shall" Word Tour through the Bible Uncle Ed's Philosophy Justification Obituaries Meetings
“For in him we live, and move, and have our being” Acts 17:28.
The above verse describes in three parts that which every child of God is, that which sustains him, and that which gives him a basis for all his hope.
In this article only the first part will be considered, that is the phrase “in him we live.” This speaks volumes in that it states that our life is in Him, Christ. The 17th chapter of the book of Acts records the time that the apostle Paul is preaching in the midst of Mars’ hill to a Superstitious group of people. These people had worshipped almost everything, and just in case they had missed a god to worship, they had an altar to the unknown god.
Paul declared this unknown god to them in verses 24 through 31. “God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; Neither is worshipped with man’s hands, as though he needed anything, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things.” Paul relates in this chapter that since we are God’s offspring that we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, or any graven image of man’s imagination.
We are the offspring of God! According to the book of Genesis in the account of the creation of God, we are made in His image. In John 1:3, we learn that all things were made by the Word of God, which was with God in the beginning, and was God. There we learn that there was not anything that was made without Him. He alone gives the breath of life. So “in him we live.”
All life, both natural and spiritual is in Him, and without Him there is no life..
These superstitious ones to whom Paul was preaching were serving and worshipping those who were not God that had no life in them, neither could they give life nor sustain life. Only the God of heaven, the living God, who has life in Himself, can give life. Only one who is able to give life can sustain life. So in this one and only true and living God can we live. “In Him We Live!”
Some believe that the above is true concerning natural life, yet insist that mankind has a part in either creating or in keeping spiritual life. Many believe that God offers mankind spiritual life and leaves it up to man himself to decide whether or not to keep that life.
Since only God has life in Himself, He is the creator of all life both natural and spiritual. It would seem foolish to man to think that any man would “will”, to or decide to have natural life before he possessed natural life. Even the most ignorant evolutionary mind would easily understand the impossibility of something that did not exist, to have a desire to exist.
To will, wish or desire is a performance of life, and there must be the presence of life for the performance of life. Life always precedes action. And as man could not will to have natural life before ‘he had natural life, neither can man will to have spiritual life before he has spiritual life. It is just as impossible to will to have spiritual life as it is to will to have natural life:
If we have spiritual life, we are of Him and in Him. “In him we live.”
Clifford Gowens
In Galatians chapter 2, verse 21 we read Paul's writing, “I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.” Do you suppose that sometimes we misrepresent what grace is, that we make void, reject or bring to nought what grace really is? Grace is a gift of God; it is a gift bestowed upon an undeserving person and it is a divine influence upon the heart and its reflection in the life. It is that which comes from God that is Holy and bestowed upon that which is unholy. So Paul says, “I do not frustrate the grace of God, I do not make grace void or without meaning because God saves by grace alone and nothing else. If we could obtain eternal redemption, by works of righteousness or by placing a condition on salvation, then it would cease to be grace and we would therefore be frustrating the grace of God.
As Paul writes this letter to this church he meets this untruth head on. Here was a church that once believed that salvation was by grace, but had moved away from this great truth by bringing in the works of man. This makes me to think of a scripture in the Old Testament that says, “There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” As Paul addresses this problem he says in chapter 1 verses 6 & 7, “I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.” You see, Paul is saying that this is not really the gospel, but this is a perverted gospel and there is no truth in it. What Paul was faced with in his day, we are faced with the same untruth being preached today.
In verse 8 Paul used some pretty strong language, “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.” Then he gets a little stronger in verse 9, “As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.” The word accursed carries the thought as to excommunicate. That is to withdraw from those that preach such things. The whole of the message that Paul brings forth is this. Are you saved by the works of the law, or by grace?
In chapter 2, verse 16, we read, “Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.” Paul is telling us that we do not stand just or righteous before God based upon our works, we do not stand just and right before God because of what we do or because of what we believe, but we stand just before God based upon the faithfulness, the truthfulness and the righteousness of the Son of God, Jesus Christ. Then as we get to the 20th verse, Paul says, “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ that liveth in me: and the life that 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.”
As I read these verses, I am made to feel thankful of God's grace and thankful to realize that we are made righteous by the imputed righteousness of Jesus Christ, that it was Christ that was just, it was Christ that was righteous, that it was Christ that loved us and gave himself for us, that it was Christ that redeemed us from the curse of the law and that our life is hid with Christ in God. I do not frustrate the grace of God with the works of the law, because if righteousness came by the law, then Christ is dead in vain. If it takes works to redeem us and make us righteous, then the death of Christ would have been in vain, that is, it would have no meaning and his death did not accomplish anything. But thanks be to God that giveth us the victory through Jesus Christ. AMEN:
In Titus 1:2, it is said, "In hope of eternal life which, God that cannot lie promised before the world began."
It surely must have been the purpose of God even before the world began to give eternal life to someone, because the text says that, "He promised to" and Paul said that "God was faithful,"---
1 Cor. 1:9. So when anyone receives eternal life, I presume that it is through the faithfulness of God and I think that receiving eternal life is salvation.
It is said in 2 Tim. 1:9 that, "God saved us and called us, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began."
Now here is the thing which saves sinners, Grace; for by grace you are saved, and this very element was treasured in Christ at the exact period which the text at the head of this article says that God made the promise. So, when God saves a sinner HE does it by grace, in fulfillment of the promise and hence sinners are saved by grace through the faithfulness of God.
It is said in Eph. 1:3-4, that God has blessed us with all spiritual blessings "according as HE hath chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world," and I presume that salvation is a spiritual blessing.
So, we gather that God did not only promise eternal life before the world began and placed the element in Jesus which gives eternal life, but He also made choice of the ones upon whom He intended to bestow the blessings; and He is just that faithful that He will bestow it upon everyone of them.
From The Glad Tidings March 21, 1924 ELDER W. H. RICHARDS
THANKS SO MUCH
Thanks so much to some one for sending me this paper [Banner of Love]. I go to sleep with it under my pillow every night. I wish I was able to send everyone the same, but I only have so much to live on. But God is good to me. Thanks so much to some one.
Irene DeMink - Sandia, Texas
Dear Brother Richards: The following is excerpted from a discussion group posting made by Elder Gene Thomas of Scottsboro, AL. I have secured permission from Brother Gene to send it to The Banner of Love for possible future publication. I believe the words of Brother Gene are plain, concise, and accurate. It shows the teaching of Jesus Christ in a very succinct fashion—making distinctions and drawing undeniable conclusions. All of God’s children need such simple, straightforward teaching. Sincerely, Coy Thomas Lawrenceville, GA
By ELDER GENE THOMAS
I believe that the gospel preached by man has certain limitations. I do not believe that the gospel preached by man has any effect on either increasing or decreasing the number of the elect who will be finally in heaven.
I do believe that the true gospel can bring joy and happiness and assurance to a child of God while he lives in this earth. I do not believe that a child of God who has heard the truth of the gospel preached by a God-called and God-sent minister will have more joys in eternal heaven than one who did not have that opportunity of hearing a human blessed to declare the gospel in this life. The benefits and losses relative to the hearing or not hearing of the gospel preached by a human will be realized entirely in this world. Brother, can you find any agreement with this teaching? I call attention to a lesson that is taught in Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Each of these writers, under inspiration, discusses the same subject. While there are slightly different wordings employed, the same lesson is taught in all three places. Please take the time read the lesson at each place: Matthew 19:29 And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. Mark 10:29-30 And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's, But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life. Luke 18:29-30 And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake, Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting. Having listed these three passages, I will make comments on portions of them. Thomas Commentaries: Please notice the strong word "INHERIT" in Matthew that governs the entrance into the life everlasting. This word would mean that one must be an "heir" in order to "inherit". To be an "heir" in this respect would simply mean that one would have to be a member of the family of God in order to "inherit". And a part of the activity that was to be done was the preaching of the gospel. Much had to be done also in preparation for preaching which can be read in the body of these verses.
All the activities which did include "for his name's sake", "for my sake, and the gospel's", and "for the kingdom of God's sake" were to be finalized in this world and all the benefits that were to be gained by what was done would also be realized in this world. Please notice that the "pay-off" for all that was done was in this life--in this world. This has to do with the gospel (as preached by humans) and the end result achieved by the gospel. It strictly applies to this life and this world. The lesson plainly teaches that all works done in these categories are paid off in this world. There is no "carry-over" to heaven. Receiving the 100-fold in this present time means that a full 100 per cent "pay- off" comes in time. This also teaches in a most positive way that works do not have any thing to do with gaining heaven. The works are already paid off 100 per cent in this life. This means a most amazing thing—Heaven is granted on the basis of mere GRACE. It cannot be for works—because the works have been taken care of in this life. The life to come (eternal life in heaven) has to be by grace alone. Now having "beaten around this bush" at length, one ought to be able to realize that the ordinary preaching of the gospel with its benefits are for time only and not for heaven. If the preaching of the gospel by humans has any "pay-off" in heaven, then a part of heaven will be involved with works and not grace. I do not believe that any works of human merit will be regarded in heaven. All of heaven will have regard to the AMAZING GRACE of the ONLY SOVEREIGN that exists. Brother, can you agree with this too? Can you stand with me on this "common ground"? Does this qualify as "solid ground"? Can you stand on it without sliding off? If I know my poor heart, I have a great desire to uphold the truth… Please remember me in your prayers and I remain as,
Your little brother, Gene Thomas
In interpreting our laws from the statutes, the court system of America has certain recognized rules of "construction" to determine the intent of the Legislature. Attorneys are required to become knowledgeable in these "rules of construction" as they apply and provide advise on the meaning of these laws.
One of the more common rules involves use of the "plain meaning" of words used in our laws. In other words, one of the first methods used to interpret a new law’s meaning is to apply the basic common meaning of the words used by the state legislature or United States Congress in drafting the particular law at issue.
Many times lawmakers use specific words which have very clear and definite meaning to insure they are subject to later certain interpretation by citizens, their attorneys, and finally the judges in our court system.
One of the very basic rules involves whether lawmakers used either the "shall" word or the "may" word. Use of the "shall" word doesn’t leave much room either for interpretation, or for the use of discretion by those who apply the law. "Shall" is a mandatory word.
On the other hand, use of the "may" word generally allows discretion by either those applying the law or by those following the law. Use of the "may" word generally involves permissive law.
For example, the federal government at one time adopted a law mandating that states implement maximum speed limits of 55 mph. It involved use of the "shall" word. States had no choice but to implement such speed laws or they would lose their federal highway funding.
In recent years, Congress amended that law to allow (but not "require") states to increase the speed limit in certain cases (i.e. on Interstate highways, freeways, etc.). This involved use of the "may" word.
In court arguments over interpretation of such laws, it is not unusual to hear a judge question the attorneys with statements asking "Does the law use the `may’ word or the `shall’ word." The correct answer to that question usually signals the judge’s upcoming ruling.
Read the Scriptures with this concept in mind. Apply the "plain meaning". The conclusions are quite simple.
Start with Matthew 1:21: In referring to the conceived Mary and the soon-to-be birth of her son, an angel appeared to Joseph and said: "and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins." Notice the shall" word, not the "may" word. There is no conditional language — no "ifs", "ands" or "buts".
Too many false prophets in this world imply the "may" word here when they attempt to add on a condition — an affirmative act on your part is also necessary. If any permissive or discretionary act is required by any one of us, then the "shall" word has been changed to "may". When you hear that an additional condition or limitation has been put on "shall", ask the speaker if he just created a "weak" Jesus, powerless to save unless a human also acts.
Or go to several spots in the 8th chapter of Romans wherein God’s love for us is discussed. "What shall separate us from the love of Christ?" The answer, very clearly stated there, is nothing — not even our own actions or inactions. No conditions exist which will keep God’s love from His chosen people ( See also I John 4:19; John 15:16).
There are numerous other examples, including early in Genesis when the Lord explains what will happen if man eats from the forbidden tree. See Genesis chapters 2-3.
Or go to Romans 5:19: "For as by one man’s disobedience (Adam) many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one (Jesus) shall many be made righteous". It says "shall", not "may". If any conditions or limitations are placed on the "shall", then the word has been changed to "may". See also Romans 6:14.
The "shall" word. Watch for it. Apply its plain meaning. "Shall" means shall — it does not mean "may".
I thank the Lord for the "shall" word.
A tall, stately old gentleman, stooped with age, walks down the steps from the post office, hesitates, and looks around, seeing a bench under a tree near the sidewalk, he heads that way, hangs his cane across the arm of the bench, takes his hat off and wipes his brow with his arm, and the morning sun is shining brightly. His white hair sparkles as the warm sun reflects his image.
"Why, hello John," he speaks crisply to a 12 year old boy, who approaches, with a smile.
"Hello, Uncle Ed," the young man answers quickly, "How have you been doing since I saw you last?"
"Well, Son" the old gentleman begins with a southern drawl in his voice" I am doing better now, since the summer has set it. I always like the warm weather. But mama has not been well, and this bothers me a heap."
"Sure," the young man says quickly," "I was going to ask you how Aunt Mary was doing, I have not seen her in quite a while. If you've got a minute, I have something I would like to discuss with you."
"Oh, anytime, Son" he said, with a broad smile crossing his face, at the prospect of a good conversation. "It ain't very much that I know, but what I do know, I am sure willing to share it with the likes of you."
"Tell me, Uncle Ed, about the Love of the Lord. Things have not been going very well with me, and I guess I have been feeling sorry for myself. My Dad's been very sick for a long time. Mother's got a job, but she don't get paid very much. I have been mowing yards, but all together, we have trouble paying our bills. I work all the time, and I don't have time to play with the other kids any. I know mother needs me, but you know, kids my age like to be one of the boys, and we don't like to have the other boys look down on us. You know sometimes I get to feeling like the Lord don't love me. What would you do, in a case like that?"
Ed: Well, Johnny, you are pretty badly down in the dumps when you decide the Lord don't love you. That creates quite a problem. Let's see, now, I think the best thing for you to do in a case like that, is to just sit down here on the bench with me and we will see what we can do.
John: I feel sure I am wrong, but it bothers me.
Ed: I think the best thing for you to do is to start counting your blessings. The Lord has blessed you with a good mother that loves you, good brothers and sisters that love you. I remember the pastor of our little church baptized you down in the creek about a year ago. So, this means the pastor loves you, and the church loves you, and you have all these good people of the church, including young boys and girls your age, and this is something that a lot of kids don't have. Right?
John: Right! I know that is the truth.
Ed: Look at it like this. I know it is not very pleasant for a young man like you to have to work, and not be able to play. But in a few years you will see that it was a blessing in disguise to you. Kids that don't work and have a lot of extra time seem to be the first to get into trouble.
I recall many years ago, when I was raisin' my boys, they had to work. Sometimes they thought Dad was pretty hard on them, when other boys their age were out having a good time, and they were working. One of my boys had a good friend his age. They played side by side on the football team, one playing guard and the other playing tackle. I think my boy resented having to come home from school and work, while the other boy went to the pool hall to have a good time.
Several years passed. My boy was in college. One morning we picked up the daily paper. There, in big headlines, we read where this other boy, probably half-drunk, had taken a shotgun and shot his father, leaving him dead, face down in a cotton field in his own blood. As my son read this story, he turned pale.
Later my son said, "I thought my Dad was pretty rough on me, making me come home from school and work, while this boy had a good time. But look what happened to him? - In jail accused of shooting his own Dad-and probably many years facing him in prison. My Dad taught me how to work, got me a job while I was going to college, working my own way, and soon I hope to get out and get me a good job and be a good citizen."
"Gee." said John, with his eyes big and bright, "That does give you something to think about. I know my mother loves me, I know the pastor is concerned with me, and all the people at church seem to love me. And, you have made me realize that the Lord really loves me. I hope you won't really think that I am bad and lazy for not wanting to work all the time."
"Not at all" said Uncle Ed, as he put his arm on the boy's shoulder. "You are a fine young man, and everyone loves you. I want to see you again in about ten years [if I am still here] and see how well you are doing. Remember, Ole Uncle Ed loves you, and I always enjoy talking with you. It makes me feel young again."
With this, the old man raised up off the bench, took up his cane, and tottered off down the street.
The young man stood there for a moment. Then he reached up with his sleeved arm, wiped a big tear from his eye, and headed out in the other direction.
The Banner of Love, August 1972
TO MY MOM AND DAD
WHOM I LOVE SO DEARLY
Such a blessing its been these
Past years to have you both so near me.
I love you both so much, I think
My heart will overflow.
Every day of our lives I feel
My love and respect for you grow.
When finally a few years ago
I was able to leave the nest.
I knew I'd miss the two sweet parents
With which I've been blest
Though I was living amongst hobo's
Ex-cons and those who are mental,
Thank God He blessed me to remain
Sane and gentle.
Even, then you two, and through
You the Lord Jesus Christ.
Were examples of the right way to live
And thank God I did as you advised.
Through those dark days and months
Even a couple years.
Thank God, I was able to turn your disappointed
Sobs into joyous tears.
And always through prayer to Jesus Christ
I climbed out of that old dark pit.
I found that a life sober and honest
Would lead to our dear Lord ever watching over
Shining His grace upon us.
And through these days of sickness,
Nurses and meds.
The dear Lord blessed us with
A roof for the rain and protected us from
Curses in our heads.
Always Mom and Dad you have helped me
And given aid
Though you're not full of wealth,
So many of my bills you paid.
Every night before bed I pray and
Thank God for carrying me through.
Thank you dear Lord for a Mom
And Dad as caring and considerate as you.
I love you both so very much.
Lew Poss
ALWAYS LOOK FORWARD TO THE PAPER
Thank you for the reminder. Aways look forward to the paper with all the good reading; also the meetings.
Renewing for another year amd a little over for you.
Thanks again.
Mrs. V. R. Weitner
From Burnet P. B. Church
Note: Sister Weitner, thank you.
Ecc. 7:20 - "For there is not a JUST man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not."
There is ONE exception, and that is the 33 1/2 years on earth by the JUST ONE….Civil: A Person may say "There is no justice."
A Lawyer may say "Fair, JUST and Equitable."
Definitions: Hebrew Word: tsedaqah – Righteous; Righteous Act; Cleanse; Lawful Greek Word dikaiosis – Equitable; Equal; To render innocent; To acquit; Declare Righteous; Justifying is the Judge’s Act; To be Justified from litigant’s standpoint means to get the verdict. hfb – Justification simply means to bring into perfect balance.
Category = 1. God is JUSTICE; JUSTICE is IMMANENT with God. One of God’s Divine Attributes.
Psalms 17:2 - Let us look into those things that are EQUAL (Just). Also: Prov. 26:7
JUSTIFICATION: It is a JUDICIAL ACT OF GOD, by which the Sinner is DECLARED INNOCENT, as if he had never sinned, with no STAIN or SCAR. Even the GUILT is removed.
Category = 2. Man is NOT JUST: Question: If man is NOT EQUAL or JUST with God, then HOW does man become JUST ? Man is rendered UNJUST in Adam’s Fall.
Answer to Question: Man is JUST with God, through FOUR (4) PHASES – and they must be in the following Numerical and Chronological Order =
Category = 3.. Eternal COVENANT:
Phase 1. GRACE = Man is PASSIVE = Rom. 3:24; Rom. 8:33; Titus 3:7. Please be aware that the BLOOD would have never reached the Elect without the GRACE of God, which was extended to us through His Son’s Obedience at Calvary’s Cross.
Category = 4. Eternal LEGAL: (Calvary’s Cross) Phase 2. BLOOD = Man is PASSIVE = Rom. 5:9, 18; Eph. 1:7; Col. 1:20—22.
Insert, before going on to Phase 3 = Old Testament Figure, Type, Picture, Shadow, Represents, Symbol = Exodus 25:17—22 = Holy of Holies, Ark of Covenant, Mercy Seat, Cherubims (2)
2 Cherubims = Righteousness & JUSTICE with Wings Touching. Psalms 85:10 Mercy & Truth are met TOGETHER Righteousness & Peace have KISSED each other. Psalms 85:11. TRUTH – earth; RIGHTEOUSNESS – heaven.
MERCY, through Righteousness, cries unto JUSTICE which is demanding for EQUAL or EQUALITY. Here they are MET TOGETHER and become JUST (Equal) In Natural or Civil entities, MERCY and JUSTICE are opposites, and oppose each other. One must be sacrificed for the other, and vice versa. Spiritually, RIGHTEOUSNESS, which is JESUS CHRIST Himself, brings them EQUALLY and JUSTLY into harmony and unity with each other, without sacrificing either, and GOD THE FATHER is pleased and satisfied, and God’s Divine Attributes are not offended, any more…
Category = 5. TIMELY (During Time) - VITAL ETERNAL - Regeneration "New Birth" - THROUGH Faith – Fruit of The Spirit – Gal. 5:22-23 Man is PASSIVE. Then in GOSPEL CONVERSION – Rom. 10:8 = Man is ACTIVE
Phase 3. BY FAITH = Hab. 2:4; Rom. 1:17; Rom. 3:26-28; Rom. 5:1-2; 10:17; Heb. 11.
Category = 6. TIMELY GOSPEL - In the Visible, Organic, Organized, Militant N. T. Church Kingdom. GOSPEL CONVERSION = John 5:17 God Works; Jesus Works; Holy Spirit Works; Phil. 2:12-13 - Man is ACTIVE
Phase 4. BY WORKS = First = Jesus’ Works = John 4:34; John 5:36; John 6:37-39.
Now Contrast - Romans 3:25—28—31 & Romans 4:23, 25 & Romans 5:1, 18, With -James 2:14----24 Note: Not by Faith "ONLY" (and also additionally). BY WORKS – is meant "N. T. Gospel Obedience" as in: Luke 16:16; Acts 2:40; Phil. 2:12-13. Certainly is NOT pertaining to WORKS of O. T. LAWS OF MOSES. FAITH & WORKS, rightly divided, harmonize. Paul is not refuting or disputing James, but harmony. James is declaring N. T. GOSPEL WORKS, which are the MANIFESTATIONS of FAITH, as the PRESSING INTO; SAVING YOURSELVES; and WORKING OUT.
The Resurrection of Jesus Christ – THE JUST ONE, at His Resurrection from the Dead, from Joseph’s New Tomb. Rom. 4:25 and also at the END-TIME - John 5:28-29
THE JUST ONE - Isaiah 9:6-7; Zech. 9:9 Ref. Matt. 21:5; Mark 11:1----10; Luke 19:30---38; John 12:12—15; Acts 7:52 = The Just One; Acts 22:14 = The Just One.
Then in Gal. 3:8, 17, 24, 29; V.24 = BY WORKS (Of Moses’ Laws) which was our School-Master, and brought us unto CHRIST, that we might be JUSTIFIED – BY FAITH, that we might therefore be JUSTIFIED BY WORKS of N. T. GOSPEL OBEDIENCE = James 2:18, 24.
Some theological positions, which are Armenian, have these Four (4) Categories in reverse, as = Justification BY WORKS, in order to be Justified BY FAITH, in order to be Justified BY BLOOD, in order to be Justified BY GRACE.
Now, we come to the FOUR (4) PHASES in SUMMARY, as follows = Isaiah. 26:7
In the proper numerical and chronological order = JUSTIFIED by = Court Scenes =
1. GRACE = In the EYES of The HOLY TRINITY - God
2. BLOOD = In the EYES of GOD THE FATHER - Christ
3. FAITH = In the EYES of the COURT or TRIBUNAL of your OWN CONSCIENCE - Ourselves
4. WORKS = In the EYES of MEN - You would not know that a man had "Faith," if you could not see his "WORKS."
Moreover =
1. GRACE = Stored up in The HOLY TRINITY before the World began.
2. BLOOD = LEGALLY and LITERALLY accomplished on Calvary’s Cross by Jesus Christ, the Son of Man & Divine Son of God.
3. FAITH = Is MADE PERFECT when MANIFESTED & DEMONSTRATED by WORKS – James 2:21
4. WORKS = Is Faith IN ACTION, MANIFESTED and DEMONSTRATED - 2nd Cor. 4:1—5
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Category = 7..
WE JUSTIFY GOD By Joining the Visible, Organic, Organized, Militant Church Kingdom upon Earth, & Repenting (Turning Away From the O. T. Law Service). Luke 7:29---35
Category = 8. JUSTIFICATION – NOT BY THE LAWS OF MOSES - Acts 13:39.
Category = 9.
WE CANNOT JUSTIFY OURSELVES - Luke 16:15; Romans 3:3-4
Category = 10.
STATUS of: NON-ELECT and THE ELECT – Timely = Job 37:12; then Zeph. 3:5 = Eternally
Before closing read = Matt. 11:19; Rom. 11:33—36
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
SUMMARY CONCLUSIONS
One of the Divine Attributes of God is JUSTICE = Psalms 89:14
Note: The Seven (7) Divine Attributes of God are = Wisdom, Power, Truth, JUSTICE, Mercy, Love and Holiness.
JUSTIFICATION = It is a JUDICIAL ACT of GOD IMMANENTLY, by which the SINNER is DECLARED INNOCENT, as if he had never sinned (no stain or scar), not BECAUSE of WORKS, but OF CHRIST’S Righteousness. . .
Closing Statement =
Those LEGALLY JUSTIFIED on CALVARY’S CROSS, are DEAD TO the LAW ONLY. The VITALLY JUSTIFIED by the NEW BIRTH (Regeneration), are DEAD TO SIN and THE LAW both.
Justification is present, because THE JUST (Vital Elect) are JUSTIFIED (Debt Paid) Legally on Calvary’s Cross, bringing JUSTICE (The Just One – Jesus Christ) to the UNJUST (Covenant Elect) legally. The UNJUST (Covenant Elect), through the OFFERING of the JUST ONE (Jesus Christ) to His Father, were brought JUSTICE (Jesus Christ), to the point of Legal JUSTIFICATION (On The Cross of Calvary), are thereby made JUSTIFIED, and now stand JUST (Legally), and then when receiving (Passively) the NEW BIRTH – HOLY SPIRIT BAPTISM – Regeneration, stand Vitally (1st Cor. 6:11) "THE JUST," and are now capable of "GOSPEL JUSTIFICATION" and becoming JUSTIFIED BY WORKS – meaning – Luke 16:16; Phil. 2:12-13.Further clarified =
First, JUSTIFIED BY GRACE
Second, JUSTIFIED BY BLOOD
Third, JUSTIFIED BY FAITH
Fourth, JUSTIFIED BY WORKS
This Chronology MUST BE "IN THIS ORDER" Numerically, to be Totally Scriptural.
Finally, through OBEDIENCE of WATER BAPTISM and JOINING the VISIBLE, ORGANIC, ORGANIZED MILITANT Church on Earth, we thereby JUSTIFY GOD – Luke 7:29. . . God is = Jer. 31:23
Those NOT embraced in LEGAL Justification were NOT embraced in COVENANT Justification either, and consequently remain "THE UNJUST" (Non-Elect) FOREVER, because of our Federal Head ADAM could NOT JUSTIFY the "LAW OF SIN & DEATH" – Gen. 2:17 – which demanded PERFECT Justifying according to – Romans 4:25 – or SATISFYING. Now is everything in perfect balance?
Final Closing Texts: Isaiah 26:7; Rev. 22:10-11
Compiled by: Hulan F. Bass (elder) Lockhart, TX.
By Elder Dale Magers
When Christ was crucified, he ascended upon high and led captivity, captive {he had just freed us from sin and the grave}. In his victory as Lord he gave gifts unto men: {Eph.4:11 thru 15} “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;”. Why did he put these gifts in the church? The apostle gives three reasons: “For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.” The service of God requires pastors that serve, and one of the ways that they serve is by teaching God`s elect about Christ Jesus and his glorious work. So we see that the servants of this time are both pastors and teachers in the same gift. A minister must be “apt to teach.”, But he must also be able to serve as a shepherd. He must feed the lambs and sheep. He must visit them in their sickness and afflictions. He must help them in their times of need knowing that they are God`s under shepherd. They must edify the church by building it up and encouraging it. How do they do all these things? By depending upon Christ. They must teach the people all about Christ and his great work: “Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, the measure of the statue of the fullness of Christ.” {Eph.4:13}
We can see that from the time that we are spiritural babies in Christ that we are to grow in grace and truth. We are to grow up to a full grown man in Christ. We are to imitate Christ and to be like Christ. How wonderful it would be if we could all accomplish this, but sin gets in the way. So often we fail! We see the church just sitting where it began not having grown an inch so often. This is because we as ministers have not pointed the people to Christ and brought them up in the nurture and admonition of Christ. The life of the church is growing in the experience and knowledge of Christ and to relate our experiences with Christ. To know him is to love him. Therefore the apostle Paul in the 14th verse warns us: “That we henceforth be no more children {babies, infants} tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; but speaking the truth in love may grow up in to him in all things which is the head, even Christ.” The world is so full of errors that are proclaimed as God's truths. There are more errors taught in the world today than truth. How do we save God's people from error? The visible church must not be like the picture Paul paints here. Paul sees the church in a small ship being whipped about with winds of error, not able to enter into its port of safe haven {Christ is the anchor of our hope} . God will bring his church to its safe haven and danger if we do what he commands us to do.
What are we to do? “Study to show ourselves approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” God’s blessings do not flow out of our ignorant imaginations, but through our experiences through the word of God. Solomon as king of Israel built a Navy to send to Ophir for gold. While he was king he added materially to the wealth of his kingdom. If you remember, Solomon did not pray for wealth, but for wisdom and God blessed him with great wealth! This was material wealth, but we can have great spiritual wealth as the ship of Zion by seeking him daily and learning more and more about him. In Luke 12:32 we have this encouragement: “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father`s good pleasure to give you the Kingdom.” God`s purpose is to bless us. In verse 33 of Luke the Lord said, “Sell that you have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags with wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth. For where your treasure is there will your heart be also. {Verse 35} Let your loins be girded about and your lights burning.” Are we dwelling in the light or in darkness as the church? The light that you are shining as a saint is the truth of God. AMEN:
by Bud Lowrance
In John 3:21, the Lord said, "but he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be manifest, that they are wrought in God." The word 'wrought' means that power has been exercised in the doing. The King James Bible is the very best example of this power, which has been wrought by The Lord God Almighty; to cause men, moved by His Holy Spirit to record the written Word; for all his children to see, throughout all ages. Any other attempt by men to revise this Bible, will result in the power, and the beauty being removed, and lost to the reader. For example: the "New King James" version says in John 3:21- that they are 'done' in God. See what a vast difference this makes in the power of the verse? The word 'wrought' then, denotes also, that you will see the ability that is manifest in the work of the Master Craftsman. Ephesians 1:19-20 "And what is exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, 20 Which he 'wrought' in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand
in the heavenly places, 21 far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: 22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, 23 Which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all." Brethren, the above verses are full illustration of the point that I am making! He that doeth truth cometh to the light; because he is drawn to the true Light spoken of by the Apostle John, in Chapter 1:9. Let us consider that great Pharisee, Saul, as he journeyed to Damascus with those arrest warrants for the Disciples of Christ who were there. Acts 9:3 says, "There was a light that shone round about him from heaven." In Acts 22:6 he called it a "great light" - in Acts 26:13 he said it was 'above the brightness of the sun.' This was indeed a 'great light,' then.
As Saul; who was to become the Apostle Paul, began to see Jesus Christ through the Spirit, so we must turn to the true Light to see how Saul was born again [or regenerated] on that journey to Damascus. The Lord said in John 3:3, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."
Is there any doubt that he is speaking of his church, here? Can we see this, without also seeing Jesus Christ as head of His Church? John 3:5 gives more light: "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be born of water and of the spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." Saul could not see the kingdom of God, and if he could not see it, he certainly could not enter into it. But when that great light from heaven shone round about him; he fell to the earth, because it literally blinded him, so that his natural eyesight failed! And he heard a voice saying unto him, "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?" What was the first thing that Saul said? Who art thou, Lord?"
No man can call him Lord, without being born of the Spirit, 1 John 5:1, "Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God." Saul was born again the instant the Lord spoke his name - "And the Lord said, I am Jesus, whom thou persecuteth" - V6, "and he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?"
To be 'converted' means to turn from error- whether it be in belief, or thoughts, actions, or way of life. For example, the Lord told Peter that Satan had desired him, but he said, "I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art 'converted,' strengthen thy brethren." Luke 22:31-32. Again, Matt. 18:3 "except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye cannot enter into the kingdom of heaven." Let us observe then, as Saul becomes converted from the error of his ways; after being led by the hand to Damascus; [instead of continuing under his own power]; for even though his eyes were open, he saw no man. Acts 9:17 "And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. V. 18 "And immediately there fell from his eyes as it been scales; and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized."
He not only received his natural sight back, but the Day Star arose in his heart; and he could plainly see the scriptures that he was so well educated in, were all prophecies of the Lord's Christ met in Jesus, our Savior. V. 20 "And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God."
Matt. 5:16, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your father which is in heaven." Here the Lord tells us that we need to let our lights shine! Why are we afraid to do this, then? He says that it will glorify your Father in Heaven- "But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God."
Children, it seems to me that the good works in Matt. 5:16 are the same thing as the deeds that will be made manifest in John 3:21. If this be true, then let us begin to let our lights shine!
In His Love, Brother Bud Lowrance