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The Messiah’s Secret Revealed – The Roots of Christianity

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The roots of Christianity are in Jesus Christ.

Jesus’ prayer John 17:5 reveals to us that he was glorified that he had with his Father before the world was made, and in verse 24 he prayed for the disciples to behold his glory in his Father’s love for him before the foundation of the world. The roots of Christianity are in Jesus  Christ. Paul wrote that Christians are rooted and grounded in Christ’s love. Ephesians 3: 17

Through Paul’s knowledge of the Hebrew scriptures the Holy Spirit revealed to him how God before the foundation of the world had in his great mercy Gentiles in mind to be saved through faith in Jesus.

“In order to make known the riches of his glory for the vessels of mercy, which he has prepared beforehand for glory, 24 even us whom he has called, not from the Jews only but also from the Gentiles? 25 As indeed he says:  “Those who were not my people
I will call ‘my people,’ and her who was not beloved
I will call ‘my beloved.’”
26 “And in the very place where it was said to them, ‘You are not my people,’ they will be called ‘sons of the living God.’” Romans 9: 23, 24. Hosea 1: 10. 2: 23 RSV Bible

When Paul wrote to the church at Ephesus, he encouraged the Gentile Christians that God had planned their inclusion into the Kingdom of God through faith in Jesus before the foundation of the world.

 ”Even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him.” Ephesians 1: 4. RSV Bible

God had prepared to bless us in our ministries, the vessels of mercy, ”For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2: 10 RSV Bible

Paul tells us that Gentiles cannot attain eternal life by doing good deeds to please God, it’s by faith, which depends on the promises and rests on grace.

Covenants sealed with blood

 “11 Therefore, remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh called the “uncircumcised” by those who call themselves “the circumcision” (which is made in the flesh by human hands)”  Ephesians 2: 11 RSV Bible

Abraham’s Covenant sealed with circumcision, “This is my covenant which you shall keep, between me and you and your descendants; every male among you shall be circumcised.” Genesis 17: 10. RSV Bible

Jesus was circumcised in order to fulfil the law.

Moses’ Covenant was ratified, with blood. “Moses took the blood and threw it upon the people, and said, “Behold the blood of the covenant which the Lord has made with you in accordance with all these words.” Exodus 24: 8. RSV Bible

Jesus’ Covenant, “Drink this all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. Matthew 26: 26-28. RSV Bible

Circumcision of the heart sealed by the blood and the Holy Spirit.

In our body, life is in the blood, and the blood’s function reflects our salvation – the red blood cell collects oxygen from the lungs and carries it to a tissue and offloads it giving the tissue energy and simultaneously takes away from the tissue the waste, the carbon dioxide is expelled through the lungs. The red cell is like Jesus ministering to a person his redeeming blood removing the waste, the sin in our lives, while at the same time the blood giving us new life.

Repentance from the heart leads to forgiveness and the indwelling presence of the Father, Jesus and Holy Spirit. Romans 2: 29. 9: Colossians 1: 29.Acts 2: 37. 7:51.

We draw on our inheritance from the sap rising from the roots of Christ and we are blessed with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places. Ephesians 1: 3

“12 remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world.” Ephesians 2: 12. RSV Bible

Before Jesus, the relationship between Jew and Gentile, the Gentiles were excluded from citizenship in Israel.

The Hebrew people came into existence from the foundation of the world and became God’s chosen people they had covenants, agreements with God. God spoke through the prophets: prophesies and promises. Luke11: 50. Matthew 13: 35. 25: 34 RSV Bible

Did God intend Gentile Christians to become Proselytes?

Unger’s Bible Dictionary

New Testament used the word ‘Proselyte, there were two classes – gentile strangers, who while living among the Jews, bound themselves to seven precepts that forbade: idolatry, blasphemy, bloodshed, uncleanness, theft,  eating flesh without blood, while being obedient, professing their adherence to all doctrines and precepts of the Mosaic law.

Secondly the Rabbis gave three essentials for admission of males as proselytes to Judaism-circumcision, baptism and sacrifice. To a woman – baptism and sacrifice.”

The early church  

 The Pharisees wanted every male Gentile to be circumcised and to uphold Mosaic law However, the Gentiles were given religious enactments to follow that excluded  circumcision.    The Jerusalem Meeting of the church, apostles, and elders was to consider the religious decrees for the Gentiles: to abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. Acts 15: 29.                                                         

Paul’s message to the Gentiles removed all barriers that had existed before between Jew and Gentile.

 “13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near in the blood of Christ. 14 For he is our peace, who has made us both one, and has broken down the dividing wall of hostility, 15 by abolishing in his flesh the law of commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, 16 and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby bringing the hostility to an end.” Ephesians 2: 13-16. RSV Bible

The cross the meeting place between God and all humanity, we have access into the kingdom through faith in Jesus’ blood.

Paul writes: “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our sins, according to the riches of his grace.” Ephesians 1: 7  RSV Bible. Through having faith in Jesus in what he did for us on the cross, taking our sin upon himself and dying as a result, and through his divinity being found not guilty in his own life, his blood shed for the sins of the whole world and universe. God raised him from the dead. Through Jesus accomplishing this he has united us with heaven while we live on the earth.

So, through faith in Jesus I have died with him to sin and with him raised up in God’s eternal Spirit to newness of life.

17 And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near; 18 for through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. 19 So then you are no longer strangers and sojourners, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God. Ephesians 2: 17-19. RSV Bible

Paul saw that the Gentiles accepting Jesus as their Saviour made Israel jealous. As a result the Jews argued with Paul and contradicted what he was saying. Acts 13: 44-47

As the church grew, a division began to emerge between Jewish Christians and Gentile Christians.

“A couple drove several miles down a country lane, not saying a word. An earlier discussion had led to an argument and neither wanted to concede their position. As they passed a farmyard of mules and pigs, the husband sarcastically asked, “Relatives of yours?” “Yep” the wife replied, “In-laws.” “A Barrel of Fun” J John & Mark Stibbe

The Gentile Christians acknowledge their union with the Christian Jews, when they sent provisions of food during a famine to the Christians at Jerusalem.

“For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem; they were pleased to do it, and indeed they are in debt to them, for if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material blessings.” Romans 15: 26, 27. RSV Bible

Eyre & Spottiswoode Study Bible notes 2 Corinthians 8: 1. “This offering was more than a relief mission. It would be for the Jerusalem Christians a demonstration of the oneness of the faith and love which united the Gentile and Jewish Churches into the fellowship of the one body in Christ.”

The Corinthian church were asked to contribute to the relief of the Christians at Jerusalem. Paul spoke of equality between Jewish and Gentile Christians.

Paul’s letter to the Corinthians he wrote, “I do not mean that others should be eased and you not burdened, but that as a matter of equality, your abundance at the present time should supply their want, so their abundance may supply your want so there may be equality.2 Corinthians 8: 13. RSV Bible

Old saying, “Two little dicky birds sitting on a wall one is Peter the other Paul. Fly away Peter, fly away Paul, come back Peter come back Paul.” It speaks of a rift causing them to fly away and coming back in understanding and unity.

The rift within the early church deepened as a result of the Apostle Peter having the ministry to the circumcised and Paul to the uncircumcised. The Christians who insisted in keeping of the Mosaic law and circumcision eventually led to Paul’s confrontation with Peter over this issue, we read about in Paul’s letter to the Galatians. Galatians 2: 1-21.

Paul had to prove his sincerity toward Jesus when he recounted his testimony and the years following his conversion. Peter was a man of great stature among the Christians and to publicly speak to him in the way that Paul did when he accused him of being insincere towards the Gentile believers. “But when I saw that they were not straight forward about the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas before them all, “If you a Jew, live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, how can you compel the Gentiles to live like the Jews?” Paul continued to say, that we are declared not guilty of our sin before God through the final sacrifice of Jesus to justify the demands of the law of sin and death. Therefore, justification did not come through keeping the law, it has come through faith in Jesus. Peter was trying to please the Gentiles by sitting and eating with them, but when the Christian Jews arrived he withdrew from the Gentiles, Paul was saying you can’t have it both ways.

Peter wrote at the end of his letter that there were some things that Paul wrote in his letters that were hard to understand. 2 Peter 3: 16.

Down the centuries Jesus death on the cross became a stumbling block to the Jewish people.

 “Has God Finished with Israel” by Rob Richards page 126 -128

Rob Richard quotes 1 Thessalonians 2: 14b – 16. “” . . . the Jews, who killed Jesus and the prophets and also drove us out. They displease God and are hostile to all men in their effort to keep us speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved. In this way they heap up their sins to the limit. The wrath of God has come upon them at last.”

Rob continues (Yet we remind ourselves in the Nicene Creed, ‘For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate,’ a Gentile. ASB)

The process was almost complete. The Messianic believers had started within Judaism but were now being forced to find a distinct identity outside mainstream Judaism. The Bar Kochba Revolt of AD 132 further widened the division between the two communities. Bar Kochba was hailed as the Messiah by Rabbi Akiva, and the Jewish believers had to withdraw their support from his leadership of opposition to Rome because they believed Jesus to be the Messiah and consequently, they were seen as heretics. The opposition of the Jewish establishment to the believers became violent and this sealed the complete separation.”

During this period the leaders of the churches introduced ‘Replacement theology’ meaning that the church has replaced Israel. Chrysostom and Martin Luther were very antagonistic against the Jews and the Jews respond in the same manner.         I personally do not believe in replacement theology.

God is preparing his Church for Jesus’ return.

Singer Helen Shapiro is of Jewish decent born in London in 1946. At the age of six she went to a state school. She told us of how she remembered a child coming up to her in the playground and saying, ‘You killed Jesus.’ She was devastated and never forgot those hurtful words. In the late 1980’s she discovered Jesus as her Saviour and the promised Messiah to the Jewish people.

The Messiah’s Secret Revealed in 1996

Both Peter and Paul understood that the leaders and people had crucified Jesus in ignorance to fulfil the prophesies of his death and resurrection. These prophesies had been hidden from them by God. On the evening of the day of Jesus’ resurrection Jesus had opened the disciples understanding to these prophesies. Luke 24: 44-48. Acts 3: 17- end 13: 27.

At Pentecost the Apostles proclaimed publicly that Jesus was the Messiah for the first time, a national calling to accept Jesus and he would have brought in ‘the times of refreshing’ the restoring of the throne and land of King David. Luke 1: 32, 33.

The Jews were taught from the law that when the Messiah came he would live for ever. This was taught by the Layers, Scribes and confirmed when they stood at the cross, “So also the chief priests mocked him to one another with the scribes, saying, “He saved others; he cannot save himself. 32 Let the Christ, the King of Israel, come down now from the cross, that we may see and believe.” Those who were crucified with him also reviled him.” John 12: 34. Mark 15: 31, 32. RSV Bible  Matthew 16: 21, 22.

The early church where expecting Jesus to return soon after Pentecost. Acts 3: 17-22. Mark 8: 38, 9: 1

Only God the Father knows the time of Jesus’ return

”  20 built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; 22 in whom you also are built into it for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.” Ephesians 2: 20-22.

Our Jewish roots

We are built upon the foundations of the apostles and prophets. The apostles Jewish men, saw the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy, “There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse and a branch shall grow out of his roots.” Jesus the Christ fulfilling this prophecy, from his Hebrew roots he has made it possible for all humanity to become Children of God through faith in Jesus. Peter in his second letter wrote to those who have obtained a faith of equal standing with ours, in the righteousness of our God and Saviour Jesus Christ.  Peter prophesied  that the earth will be dissolved by fire and with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.  Isaiah 11: 1.  2 Peter 1: 1. 3: 8, 10.

Christians are equal in Christ ‘all in all’

Paul towards the end of his letter to the church at Rome pursues the hope of peace between believers; to bear the failings of the weak.   To edify our neighbour -To live in harmony with our neighbour. That together you may with one voice glorify God the  Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.  “7 Welcome one another, therefore, as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. 8 For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the circumcised to show God’s truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, 9 and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written,  “Therefore I will praise thee among the Gentiles, and sing to thy name”; 10 and again it is said, “Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people”; 11 and again, “Praise the Lord, all Gentiles, and let all the peoples praise him”; 12 and further Isaiah says, “The root of Jesse shall come, he who rises to rule the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles hope.”

13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Romans 15: 1-13. RSV Bible    Psalm 18: 49. 2 Samuel 22: 50. Deut 32: 43. Psalm 117: 1. Isaiah 11: 10.

Flavours of Christianity

 ‘Messianic Christian Fellowships’ that bring into their worship  elements of Judaism like the Hebrew in song, dance and some of the symbols from the temple worship: the Menorah candlestick.  I personally have no problem with that, it must enrich their worship.

Most Evangelical Gentile Christians worship as Paul indicated that when they came together they sang Hymns and songs, pray, read and hear the word expounded, and  always giving thanks in the name of  the Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father etc.  Ephesians 5: 19

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Our Hopes Depend on God’s Promise and Rest on Grace

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St Mary’s Rawtenstall Ladies Fellowship Meeting

Romans 4: 13 – end “Our hopes depend on God’s promise and rest on grace.

Choc Fest

Above Chocolate Festival

The ‘Churches Together’ leaders in Ramsbottom were inspired by Pastor Phil Burns’ Hash tag  #doyouknowHim? Campaign which took place in Skipton last year, to hold it in Ramsbottom.

They also contacted Capernwray Bible College 8 Students came to help as part of their syllabus. they were with us for the first ten days during which they ministered in schools, youth groups and play groups,

27th January the Launch Service with Bishop Mark and Phil Burns commissioning us to “Go and tell all nations” the good news  The emphasis throughout the campaign is that all 14 Churches are ‘the one church’ in Ramsbottom, and each Sunday every church focuses on the same readings from the Bible and the small groups.

Before the start of the campaign which was on the 23rd February for 10 weeks, we’ve had a 24/7 prayer day and a prayer morning plus weekly prayer meeting.

26th January we had a training day for going out on to the streets.

Pastor Phil Burn spoke from his experience, he gave us lots of pointers on the way to evangelise. He said, do not fear evangelism. Each week there’s a theme to engage people with. and for us to enjoy and get excited about evangelism.

Phil said, the art of connecting is with your story. We all have a story of coming to know Jesus.

On Saturday 23rd February we gathered at St Pauls for 9.30am for the briefing and prayer. We took out ‘Bags of Blessings’ .                                                                         A bag with several items in it.

A plaster – to remind you that God wants to heal your hurts.

A love heart – so you know how loved you are.

String – because wants to help you hold it together in tough times

Rubber – to remind you God forgives your mistakes and offers a fresh start

Star – to remind you that God will guide you forward.

Paperclip – so you are always organised

Kiss – so you know that God’s love is here to connect with.

The item given out opens-up, an opportunity to share our faith.

Two kinds of faith – when I go to the supermarket, I put my faith in paying using my credit card, believing the Bank will carry out the transaction.

Faith under God is different

Romans 4: 16   Paul writes receiving Jesus by faith, “That is why it depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all Abraham’s descendants.”                                                              

Faith –depends on God’s promise and rests on grace.

In Rammy when we speak out our belief, we’re resting in God’s promise, believing that the Holy Spirit acts upon the word of the promise ‘For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life’ and we rest on God’s grace for people responding by coming to faith in Jesus.

Verse 17. God gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist.”

So, for the person receiving the word by faith accepting Jesus is to call into existence’ a new creation in Christ.

Faith –depends on God’s promise and rests on grace.

Week 5 ‘Sound Portrait‘ Epiphany Musicians

A small orchestra: 3 violins, a cello, a flute, and a keyboard. Lead by the Holy Spirit they played and sang moving around the person sat on a chair. It was so moving the harmony  was heavenly, afterwards the leader of the orchestra spoke to the person describing their portrait in words. Every person received the ‘Sound Portrait’ on a CD.  In the evening St Andrew’s hosted Epiphany Musicians Concert. During the concert two people had ‘Sound Portraits. Choc Festival 19

A fortnight ago week 7 it was the Chocolate festival and the theme was God’s love, we gave out a small box containing leaflet, a scripture verse and a chocolate. I witnessed to several people, but two conversations were significant:

I was stood outside the Station in Ramsbottom handing these out, when two ladies came up to me and asked me the question, ’Is Jesus God? I replied, “Jesus is the word of God clothed in the flesh.” He was sent by God from heaven to become one of us, to enable us to enter into heaven . . . .” I asked what had caused her to ask the question, she said, that she had watched the film, ‘The Shack’ and she hadn’t quite understood if Jesus was God or not. The film presents God as a Caribbean woman, Jesus a European man and the Holy Spirit as a Chinese woman.                                                        .

The author William Young chose the worst scenario, ‘A murdered child.”   Very relevant with what’s happening in our cities with the knife crime.

 In the film Mack Philips received an anonymous letter telling him to go to the shack, he was puzzled as to who had sent him this letter. It was at the Shack where his abducted daughter ‘Missy’ was murdered.

God took him to the shack, to the point of his pain. Mack Philips blamed God for allowing this to happen to his daughter.

Unforgiveness is the effect, of a root cause, so forgiveness takes effect, by allowing Jesus to journey with us to the point of the root cause.

There in the Shack he argued with God saying, “Where were you when my daughter needed you?” Even Jesus cried out, “My God, my God why have you forsaken me.”  God replied, “I did feel Jesus’ pain,”

God identified with the man in his suffering, and showed him the nail marks in the wrist, and pointed out that Jesus forgave his perpetrators when on the cross he cried out, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.”

The man understood the cost to God, his tragic loss, where Jesus was delivered up on the cross according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God. Acts 2: 23.  God offered Jesus as a final sacrifice for forgiveness of sin.

That recalled when Abraham who laid his son Isaac on the altar and Abraham words, “The Lord will provide.” Or “The Lord will see to it.” “Jehovah Jireh.” Genesis 22: 14.

In the film, God asked the man to forgive the person who murdered his daughter and it was hard for him to come to that place of forgiveness, God’s love is in forgiveness.

Which links in with another lady on the street who couldn’t forgive the sin against her.

I shared with her about the two disciples on the road to Emmaus and the crucifixion.

It seemed appropriate this afternoon to share the disciples and Sue’s journey: The disciples faith in him was devastated and scared they knew that Jesus had been condemned to be crucified, the crowd had mocked Jesus and shouted ‘crucify him, crucify him’ Jesus understood everything that was happening to him and he forgive them. “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.” And shortly afterwards he said, “Father, into your hands I commit my Spirit.” He handed his whole life to God, and trusted that he would be raised up from the dead.

On the road to Emmaus Jesus opened the scriptures to them, so they knew that God had foretold that Jesus would die at Jerusalem. Their healing came as he explained why the events in Jerusalem had to take place through the prophesies and their hearts burned within them, shortly afterwards they recognised who the stranger was when he broke bread with them.

The lady straight away poured out her painful story, as a result we could identify how we suffer with someone we love, and it hurts.

Jesus knows by his own experience how we are affected, he was the injured party and in his love for those who sinned against him he was willing to forgive them, and by doing so he made it possible for sin to be forgiven. But it’s up to us, if we can’t forgive then we are holding on to their sin and it will build a wall of bitterness, that is detrimental to our well-being. We ended the conversation with a prayer.

it’s as we understand that God’s love is in forgiveness and we can find healing through forgiving others as God has forgiven us.

When a Christian forgives it’s by grace, through Jesus dwelling within us, “Let this mind be in you that was in Christ.” Philippians 2: 5.

All the conversations by the #doyouknowHim? teams were said in faith:

 “Faith is having the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Hebrews 11: 1.

I was assured by the Lord that the word, would not return to the Lord empty as God had prepared beforehand these God appointed meetings.

Afterwards, I was asked this question: “Can we forgive the sin of another person, without being involved in their situation?

In the Anglican Church service we call it  the ‘Absolution’. Were the person leading the service says a prayer of receiving the Lord’s forgiveness.

I personally believe that because Jesus’ dwells within us, every Christian has Jesus’ authority to forgive other peoples sin on behalf of our Lord God.

What are your thoughts on this question?

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God is Preparing the Church for Jesus’ Return

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Sometimes by taking a fresh look at past events in church history, God is preparing the Christian and the church for Jesus’ return.

Sozo Ministries International was established in 1983 by Marion Daniel. “Our ministry’s vision is to bring wholeness to the world through Jesus.”

Our Jewish Journey

Marion Daniel writes, “When the Lord revealed to us that the church has not replaced the Jews as God’s chosen people, we began to seriously investigate the Hebraic roots of our Christian faith. We discovered how the church had deliberately severed these roots in the 3rd and 4th centuries’ and we came face to face with the shameful history of Christian anti-Semitism. God has given us a deep conviction to return to the roots of our faith so that we can finally return to His master plan.”

Website: Sozo Ministries International ‘About us.’

From the Jewish point of view: Christian Persecution of the Jews over the Centuries by Gerard S. Sloyan Professor Emeritus of Religion, Temple University.

Professor Sloyan – (summary) When a synagogue was burned down by a mob, Bishop Ambrose used his influence not to have it rebuilt and it’s reported that he said, it was ‘a site of unbelief’ and he wrote that there should not continue in existence a place where Christ was denied………In one of his epistles, (40) “Whom do the Jews have to avenge the synagogue? Christ whom they have killed, whom they have denied? Or will God the Father avenge them, whom they do not acknowledge as Father since they do not acknowledge the Son?” This kind of writing typifies the shape of the Christian argument had taken over the course of two centuries.” (3rd & 4th Centuries A.D.)

Christians, like Bishop Ambrose his attitude may have been different if he had realised that it was God’s intention, that the Jews didn’t know, that it was God’s plan for Jesus to be crucified, in order that he paid the for the sins of the whole world by laying down his life, so that all creation would be redeemed by his blood and through his resurrection receive eternal life. John 3: 16

The Community at Jerusalem

We read in the Acts the followers of Jesus met as a community at Jerusalem and thrived, until a disagreement arose between the Jewish sect, the synagogue of the Freedmen and Stephen. They secretly instigated men to make false accusations against him. He was accused of speaking against the holy place and the law; “For we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and will change the customs which Moses delivered to us.” Acts 6: 8 – 14.

After this incident, Christians were arrested and brought before the courts. Paul was instrumental in this.

Pharisee Paul persecuted Christians.

Paul’s attitude towards Christians changed when he experienced seeing Jesus in a vision on the Damascus road, afterwards he knew Jesus in a personal way.

Paul took his gospel message first to the Jews on his missionary journeys. He wanted them to know and accept that Jesus was the promised Messiah.  In his knowledge of the Hebrew scriptures he proved that the Christ had to suffer and was resurrected from the dead. Acts 17: 3.

On his ministry tours his  first call was a visit to the synagogue, visitors were given the opportunity to share their news.

Paul addressed the people in the synagogue at Antioch of Pisida he informed them that those who lived in Jerusalem and their rulers, because they did not recognise him, nor  understand the utterances of the prophets . . . fulfilled these by condemning Jesus. Paul continued to expound the prophesies of King David concerning the resurrection. Acts 13: 27-33.

Paul’s message brought Gentiles into the covenant promise of the Messiah through “Jesus being the end of the law, that everyone who has faith may be justified.” Romans 10: 8-13. Romans 11: 25.

This teaching from Paul became an open wound to the Jews of the first century and still is today. The Jewish Christians wanted the converted Gentiles to observe circumcision and the law given to Moses.

Christian Persecution of the Jews over the Centuries by Gerard S. Sloyan

Professor Sloyan writes, “Whatever resistance Jesus may have met as a teacher in his life time is now couched in terms of rancour over who is a Jew, and what are the limits of commitment to the faith of Israel. Uncircumcised gentiles and even the despised Samaritans are now thought capable of professing Israel’s faith.”

Paul in his discussions with the Christian Jews in his day, pointed to Abraham’s righteousness that was through faith, circumcision of the flesh was a seal. Righteousness through faith in Christ it is circumcision of the heart in the Spirit. Romans 4:9-15.

Paul wrote in his letter to the church at Rome that the Jews had hardened their hearts by rejecting his message.

 “I want you to understand this mystery, brethren: a hardening has come upon part of Israel, until the full number of Gentiles are brought in.” Romans 11: 25.

Paul’s teaching in his letter to the Romans indicates he believed that God had not rejected Israel, but they had been ‘cut off’ from the olive tree, as a result of their unbelief and the mainly Gentile church has been grafted into the olive tree through belief in Jesus. The olive tree is a symbol of peace and light.  Romans 11: 1, 17-24.

Dake’s Annoted Reference Bible page 169 Notes Romans 11: 25-29

“The fall of the Jews was not in itself the reason for the salvation of the Gentiles. They were to be saved whether they accepted or rejected the gospel. Genesis 12: 1-3. Romans 4 Galatians 6: 8-10. The unbelief of Israel could never give faith to Gentiles. The rejection of the Christ could only accelerate the salvation of the Gentiles. Acts 13: 46-48. 28: 28. Dake also states: The fullness of the Gentiles will end at the second advent of Christ and the national conversion of Israel. Romans 11: 25-29. Isaiah 66: 7,8. Zechariah 12: 10-13. 14: 1-21.

“I want you to understand this mystery, brethren; a hardening has come upon part of Israel, until the full number of Gentiles come in, and so all Israel will be saved; as it is written, “The Deliverer will come from Zion, he will banish ungodliness from Jacob”; “and this will be my covenant with them when I take away their sins.” Romans 11: 26, 27. Isaiah 59: 20, 21.

March 26th  I asked myself the question, this hardening of the heart that Paul spoke of, did it make the leaders of Israel unlikely to receive Jesus as their Messiah at and after Pentecost?

During the 40 days before Jesus ascension, he spoke to his disciples about the kingdom of God, Peter expected Jesus to return soon after Pentecost. Peter believed Jesus, when during his ministry he indicated that there were those standing listening to him who would not die before they saw him return with the angel and the kingdom of God come with power. Mark 8: 38. 9:1.

After the healing of the paralysed man at Gate Beautiful Peter proclaimed to the crowd that Israel’s rulers and people had acted in ignorance when they crucified Jesus and if they repented their sins would be blotted out and the times of refreshing, the restoring of the throne and land of King David would come with the appointed Messiah, Jesus whom heaven must receive until the time established all that God spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old.  Acts 3: 1-21

Peter and John were arrested and brought before the Sanhedrin and the high priest’s family which included Caiaphas and they were asked, “By what power or by what name did you do this?” Peter filled with the Holy Spirit said, “”Rulers of the people and elders, if we are being examined today concerning a good deed done to a cripple, by what means this man has been healed, be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by him this man is standing before you well.” Acts 4: 1-22. The Sanhedrin’s decision: they were warned against speaking or teaching in Jesus’ name.

Is this when Israel’s branch was broken off the olive tree?

The Sanhedrin’s hearts must have been ‘hardened’ we know the Sadducee’s didn’t believe in the resurrection and the Holy Spirit speaking the word through Peter,    Caiaphas didn’t respond.

Another possibility they were ‘cut off when the community at Jerusalem were scattered, through the stoning of Stephen, although the Apostles remained at Jerusalem.

Jesus’ prophecy the events that proceed his return.

Paul perhaps was mindful of Jesus’ words, “Jerusalem will be trodden down until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.” Luke 21:24.

Many Christians believe that this prophecy was fulfilled in 1967 after the 6 Day War when after Israel took over Jordan’s eastern half of the city. Israel controlling Jerusalem after a gap of 2,000 years.

However, many more Christians believe that this prophecy was fulfilled only in part in 1967. The times of the Gentiles continues until Jesus returns.

According to Zechariah Israel’s present day defence of Jerusalem is described by him as a great stone like the heavy stone that grinds the corn

Zechariah 12: 2, 3.   “On that day I will make Jerusalem a heavy stone for all the people; all who lift it shall grievously hurt themselves.” Meaning that Israel is using a strong hand against their enemies, as we have seen over the last few years in the contention between Israel and the  Palestinians.

Since the 1970’s there have been numerous attempts to bring a peaceful settlement between Arab, Jew and Palestinian. On Wikipedia which is an on-line encyclopaedia

The website ’Israeli – Palestinian peace process’  summarises the peace initiatives and treaties up to the present day: like the UN resolution 242 November 22nd 1967, The Oslo Accords, Camp David year 2000 and the ‘Road Map’ for peace.

In 2000 Israel started to build the wall dividing Israel from Palestine.

After 52 years of Israeli’s living alongside the Palestinians, in order to solve a huge problem of national security: the constant suicide bombings and threats of invasion. Israel’s leaders decided to build a wall 705 km, it runs through the centre of Israel and around Jerusalem.

The wall will fall, Gog will invade when Israel is at peace and God will allow Gog and his allies to break down the wall.

Ezekiel’s prophecy “ . . . shall quake at my presence, and the mountains shall be thrown down, and the cliffs will fall, and every wall shall tumble to the ground.” Ezekiel 38: 14, 15, 20.

It’s followed by Jerusalem being surrounded by the armies of nations and Israelis will flee to the mountains and only a remnant will remain.

Jesus calls the church to watch, be ready for when this sign is being fulfilled.

“When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then you know that its desolation is near. “ Luke 21: 20

Jesus will call out his church before this battle takes place, and he will call when we least expect, so we must be ready.

Paul informed the Thessalonians that Jesus will call out his body of believers to meet with him in the air, before he returns to the Mount of Olives.  This  meeting is were both those who have died in faith are awakened and those who are alive, where our bodies will be raised imperishable. All will come together at this awesome event and meet Jesus face to face. 1 Thessalonians 4: 16-18. 1 Corinthians 15: 42, 46.

After this takes place those who come to faith they will suffer going through the tribulation, in this period of time there will be a build-up of tension between the nations against Jerusalem.

So, this is when I understand the times of Gentiles are fulfilled, when the full number have come to faith and Jesus returns and takes up the fight with the remnant of Israel and defeats the nations that will be led by the Antichrist.

Sometimes by understanding past events helps us to navigate our lives today.

God’s love reaches out to us as he earnestly desires to heal our wounds.

Lord, I lift to your throne of grace those who have been scarred by past events and those who are affected today by Paul’s words, people who feel rejected and wounded by being part of the branch ‘cut off’. God loves Israel and we shouldn’t judge them.

Jesus wants to heal our open inflamed wounds that will fester resentment, hatred and bitterness. All that Jesus suffered in his flesh, he was wounded for our transgressions and he bore them on the cross. “By his stripes, his wounds we are healed.” Jesus does it through his life laid down for forgiveness of sin, “On the cross Jesus was heard to say, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” Just as Jesus forgave his fellow-men and women in their words and treatment of him, so we come to our Father God and in Jesus’ name truly forgive those who have wounded us and were we have wounded others. Isaiah 53: 5, 10. Luke 23: 34.

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Christians Together Haslingden – Go and Tell the Nations

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March 9 2

Jesus’ instructions to us is to go and tell the nations about him.

A local Priest and Rabbi were fishing by the side of a road. After some discussion they thoughtfully made a sign saying “The end is near! Turn yourself around before it’s too late!” and showed it to each passing car. One driver that drove by didn’t appreciate the sign and shouted at them, “Leave us alone you religious nuts!” Shortly afterwards they heard a big splash. They looked at each other and the Priest said to the Rabbi, “You think we should just put up a sign that says, “Bridge out of order” instead.”

The ‘Churches Together’ leaders in Ramsbottom were inspired by Pastor Phil Burns #doyouknowHim? Campaign which took place in Skipton last year, to hold it in Ramsbottom. They also contacted Capernwray Bible College for some of their Students to help as part of their syllabus. They were with us for the first ten days during which they ministered in schools, youth groups and play groups,

27th January the Launch Service was held at St Paul’s with Bishop Mark spoke on Acts 9 Ananias’ witness to go and tell the feared Saul (Paul) of Tarsus  about Jesus, who had spoken to him on the Damascus Road. Bishop Mark and Phil Burns commissioned all taking part: the 8 Bible College Students, the Church in Ramsbottom leaders and volunteers. Before the start we’ve had a Training day, 24/7 prayer day and a prayer morning plus weekly prayer meetings. The campaign started 23rd February and ends 28th April (10 weeks.)

The emphasis throughout the campaign is that all Christians are ‘the church’ in Ramsbottom and knowing Jesus in a personal way. it’s great to meet brothers and sisters from other Church Fellowships. Every Sunday each church focuses on the same readings from the Bible.

In response to Jesus’ word, ‘To go and make disciples of all nations’ Matthew 28: 19.     Saturday 26th January Training Day for witnessing on the street.

 Pastor Phil Burn spoke from his experience, he gave us lots of pointers on the way to evangelise: he said, do not fear evangelism. there will be each week a theme to engage people with. and for us to enjoy and get excited about evangelism.

Phil noted how today people are burdened: the media concentrates on problems: Family strife and the breakdown in society values. He realised how they welcomed good news about Jesus, and so we are offering a message of hope.

Phil said, the art of connecting is with your story. We all have a story of coming to know Jesus.

Jesus’ disciples after being sent out twice: the  first occasion when only the 12 went out and later with the 72 so when they took the message out at Pentecost, so they were already experienced at evangelism. The difference was that at Pentecost the authority came from the Spirit of Jesus within them and the Holy Spirit empowering them and so it is with us today, Jesus’ love reaching out with the anointed words. Luke 10: 3. Acts 2: 14.

On Saturday 23rd February we gathered at St Paul’s Church for 9.30am for the briefing and prayer. We took out ‘Bags of Blessings’ .  A bag with several items in it. The label explained what the items represented in our relationship with Jesus.

march 9 1

A plaster – to remind you that God wants to heal your hurts.

A love heart – so you know how loved you are.

String – because wants to help you hold it together in tough times

Rubber – to remind you God forgives your mistakes and offers a fresh start

Star – to remind you that God will guide you forward.

Paperclip – so you are always organised

Kiss – so you know that God’s love is here to connect with.

We were sent out in two’s and three’s, the conversations with people varied: We engaged with a man from Nottingham, offering him a bag of blessing from the Church in Ramsbottom. He said that he was hoping to come and live in Ramsbottom. I mentioned the visit of Charles Dickens to the town and in his novel ‘Nickolas Nickleby’ it’s said, that he profiled the Cheeryble brothers on the Grant brothers of Ramsbottom. They built Square Mill and St Andrews church, where I attend and where I made my commitment to follow Jesus. The conversation was interrupted by the lady arriving to pick him up. Some refused the ‘the bag of blessing.’ But we had several opportunities to share our testimony with people and 20% were Christians.

(‘The Country and Church of the Cheeryble Brothers’ by William Hume Elliot)

Our witness to knowing Jesus that comes from a sincere heart, and can move a mountain of unbelief.

On the second week the theme was’ leaves of change’ We were to ask people about what changes would they want to see happen in the world and to invite them to write it on a leaf and if they were a Christian what changes to their life would they make during Lent.

March 9 4

I’ve found that various aspects of my story fit in with certain conversations that I’ve had on the street. For instance: Two young women late teens early twenties, when I offered them a pamphlet they were very anti-Christian, but very polite. I was able to recall to them, when I at a similar age and feeling very anti-Christian having had a car accident where a drunk driver hit my car from behind, while I was waiting to turn right. After that car accident I began to be ill with my nerves. Some years later, a man at work who had a healing ministry, he was a Baptist Minister, invited me to attend an evening Bible study at his church, that night I was prayed for and I was healed.    It made a great change to my life, one experience is worth a thousand arguments Jesus can change our nation, and our lives, The best had yet to com 3 years later knowing Jesus as my Saviour.

The change to the Christian Community in our town were the churches are united on this campaign to fulfil Jesus’ words, ‘They shall be one’ in Christ.  

Week three. Finger Puppets – Telling the story at a Puppet Party.March 9th Campaign

Last Saturday we gave out invitations to the ‘Puppet party’ at the Community Church (Pentecostal Church) located opposite the Library.

Even though it was cold, windy, with the occasional shower most people were friendly and stopped to converse and were given a finger puppet for their children with the invitation to ‘drop in’ at the ‘Puppet Party.’ It was well received  many went to the church where various types of puppetry gave opportunity for children to ‘have a go’ with the puppets and watch and listen to the Gospel story being told by the puppets and their puppeteers.

Others speaking to people on the street had been asked, ‘Who is the ‘Him’ that the hash tag refers to?” and with great delight witnessed their story of knowing Jesus in a personal way.

On the street, it was cold and windy I heard in the distance the steam trains whistle as it stopped at the station bringing visitors into Ramsbottom. Nothing could dampen the joy I held in my heart at being part of this witness #doyouknowHim? Campaign

Prayer

Lord, thank you for the opportunity to witness our faith, to meet people on their life’s journey and offer them the word of faith. 2,000 years ago it was made known to the world and that knowledge can’t be revoked that God’s love for us is revealed in Jesus where on the cross he took our sin of separation from God upon himself and through his resurrection we receive forgiveness and reconciliation between ourselves and God.

May many over the next 7 weeks through our turning to Jesus in faith and recognition of their sin against God and others, will ask God for forgiveness and enter into the Fellowship of the Church in Ramsbottom.  In Jesus’ name. Amen

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Heavenly Marriage between Christians in Christ

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Christ loves His Church.

Fidler on the Roof

“In the musical ‘Fidler on the Roof’, Tevye, a man devoted to tradition, finds his thinking challenged when his oldest daughter wants to marry for love, instead of having her marriage arranged by her parents. It never occurred to him that one would marry for love and one night he cannot help but ask his own wife the question (in song of course!): “Do you love me?”

T: Golde, do you love me?

G: Do I what?

T: Do you love me?
G: You’re a fool!

T: I know! But do you love me?

G: Do I love him? For twenty-five years I’ve cooked for him, cleaned for him, starved with him. Twenty-five years my bed is his. If that is not love – what is?”

“A Barrel of Fun” by J.John & Mark Stibbe

Luke 20:27-39

The Sadducee who came to Jesus asking this question about marriage in the resurrection. Jesus discerned that he was sceptical of the scriptures that tell of the resurrection and of God’s power to raise the dead.

 “Jesus said to them, “The sons of this age marry and are given in marriage; but those who are accounted worthy to attain to that age and to the resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage.” Luke 20: 34, 35.

The Sadducee quoted the law relating to marriage “A man’s brother dies and leaves a wife, but leaves no child, the man (his brother) must take the wife, and raise up children for his brother.”

He continued with proposing that all seven brothers in turn married his brother’s wife, so therefore in the resurrection whose wife would she be? The Sadducee used this law to defend their position on being no resurrection.

Jesus gave insight into marriage in the Kingdom of God.

Jesus responded by telling him that the Angels in God’s kingdom do not die and that in the resurrection, death has no dominion in God’s kingdom. Those who enter the Kingdom of God through Jesus’ resurrection have entered eternal life.

No marriage in the Kingdom of Heaven between believers.

“What is born of the flesh is flesh and that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit.”  John 3: 6 RSV Bible

In the flesh

Matthew records Jesus in conversation with the Pharisee concerning divorce. Jesus said, “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall  become one flesh.” Matthew 19: 5.

Jesus upholds the sanctity of marriage between a man and a woman in the flesh, and  this is what a Christian believes and puts into practice, but sadly it doesn’t always work.

In the Spirit

 When Jesus spoke to Martha concerning the resurrection, ”I am the resurrection and the life, he/she who believe in me, though he die, yet shall he live. And whoever lives and believes in me shall never die.” Through being born into Christ’s kingdom through the resurrection, Jesus’ words, ‘while we live’ in the flesh, brings Paul’s words, “We are individually members of one another, “ A Christian has entered the heavenly marriage in Christ. John 11: 25-27 Romans 12:

Christ loves His Church

God in his wisdom has identified the church which consists of male and female as betrothed to Christ, the ‘Bride’ of Christ. The marriage contract having been sealed, the dowry, through Jesus’ death and resurrection. Under Jewish law, which Jesus came to fulfil, requires that a marriage contract was secured with a dowry on betrothal.

Paul’s view on Christian Marriage in the Church.

Paul in his letter to the Ephesians, unites a woman to a man in marriage on earth, to marriage in Christ in heaven. Their marriage state of being one, while the husband still retains being head over a woman.   Ephesians 5: 21-32.

But Jesus states there is no marriage in heaven.

“The sons of this age marry and are given in marriage; but those who are accounted worthy to attain to that age and to the resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage, for they cannot die anymore.” Luke 20: 34-36.

It’s personal salvation, therefore, a man cannot save a woman even if they are married. Many Christians are married to unbelievers. God in his wisdom in my view separates  heavenly marriage from marriage on the earth with its cultural diversity: having an arranged marriages, or more than one wife,  same sex marriages, and partnerships.

Heavenly marriage in Christ.

Paul in my view gets it right when in his second  letter to the Corinthians he wrote, “I am jealous for you with a Godly jealousy, I promised you to one husband, to Christ, so I might present you as a pure virgin to him.” 2 Corinthians 11: 2. N I V Bible

Personally we are individually saved by grace and within the body of the church. As members of Christ’s body we are called to be without spot or wrinkle, holy without blemish, a virgin in Christ.

Every Christian is responsible for the working out of God’s purpose and plan for our lives. While we work collectively, personal salvation means as Paul put it  in his letter to the Romans, “So we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.” Romans 12: 5.

I see our relationship in the body like the blood that circulates around our body.

We are united by the blood of Jesus and ministered to by his blood.

We have the example from our blood that contains red and white cells and plasma. The cells are tiny, and each cell has a function: the red cell collects oxygen from the lungs and ministers to a tissue giving its oxygen to it, which gives the tissue energy. The red cell takes from the tissue its waste and deposits it in the lungs carbon dioxide and into the plasma to be released from the body. This ministry of the red cell parallel’s with salvation: Jesus’ blood ministers to a person giving life and removing the waste, our sin from us.

The white cell contain DNA so is able to repair damage to our tissues. It also fights against bacteria, a splinter in our skin begins to develop puss around it, when the puss is removed with the splinter the skin is healed. The cell has won the battle over the invading splinter killing off the bacteria contained in the puss.

The plasma’s function sealing cuts stopping the flow of blood from the body, carrying the waste to the appropriate organ etc.

Our blood gives us life, so Jesus’ life’s blood contains the righteousness of God, saving us from eternal death.

The church consists of both men and women and is described as a ‘Bride’ a woman. Jesus is husband over the individual Christian life, while being also husband over all.

“Jesus said, the Holy Spirit will lead you into all truth.” John 16: 12.

 John in his vision elaborated on our relationship with Jesus. John witnessed the Holy Spirit’s ministry in bringing in the Gentiles, and heard first hand Jesus’ words to the Sadducee on the question of the question of the marriage state in the resurrection.

In the vision he saw the church, the bride being married to Christ. Christ loves His Church, and the wedding ceremony takes place in heaven, followed by the marriage supper. Jesus referred to the marriage banquet in his parables. Revelation 19: 7, 9. Matthew 22: 1-14.

The seed of faith contains the whole makeup of the Kingdom of God, including the new heaven and the new earth. Revelation 21

John saw the new Jerusalem coming down from heaven to a new earth and a new heaven. He identified Jerusalem as being the ‘Bride’ of Christ. He continued to describe the city: Christ being its continuous light, the entrance to the city through the gates of pearl, the pearl of salvation. The refined gold pavement, those who have been refined before the judgement seat of Christ. No temple in the city, for its temple is the Lord God Almighty, the glory of the Lord its light.

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Moses and Elijah at the Transfiguration

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Ephesians 2: 1-21. Luke 9: 28-36

We read in Luke’s account, “The appearance of Jesus’s countenance altered, and his clothes became dazzling white.” Moses and Elijah at the Transfiguration  conversed with Jesus,  and spoke of his departure which he was to accomplish at Jerusalem.”

The Lord showed me that the appearance of Elijah and Moses is significant because of their great victories over Satan’s kingdom.

Both prophets had acted in faith and were dependent upon God. Jesus seeing them would remind him of His Father’s power over the prince of the power of the air, Satan, and also known as the devil and his hosts of wickedness.  

Moses

Moses and his brother Aaron were dependent upon God to win the victories over the gods of Egypt. God redeemed his people with the blood of the ‘Passover’ lamb.

Having reached the Red Sea Moses lifted his rod and the water parted. The Israelite’s 600,000 walked across the sea on dry land.

The Egyptians caught up with them and as they began to drive their chariots across, Moses lifted up the rod and the ground beneath the chariot began to clog their wheels and the waters came and covered them.  Egypt’s gods and Pharaoh’s army were defeated. Exodus 12

Elijah

King Ahab and Jezebel had 850 prophets praying for their god Baal to consume their offering and nothing happened. The one and only prophet Elijah totally dependent upon Israel’s God and the fire of the Lord fell and consumed his offering. The people proclaimed Elijah’s God their God.  Elijah’s victory over idolatry. 1 Kings 18: 17-39

King Ahab’s son King Ahaziah sent messengers to inquire from the god of Akron, Beelzebub whether he would get better after falling through the lattice in his upper chamber. Elijah was instructed by an angel to intervene and stop the messengers. He was obedient and Elijah was victorious over Beelzebub. 2 Kings 1: 1-4

Elijah was translated

Elijah was taken from the earth as he and Elisha walked across the Jordan, and as they walked on together a chariot of fire came between them and Elijah was caught up in a whirlwind into heaven.

Over 3 days 50 men searched for Elijah they were unable to find him. 2 Kings 2: 6-18.

Jesus was supported by Elijah and Moses

Jesus I believe was encouraged, by their victories over Satan’s gods strengthened by their dependence and obedience to do God’s will. Their presence and their words to him, gave him support when he needed it.

Jesus only did and said what he heard from his Father God, he was dependent upon his Father, but he was given like us, free will to choose what was the first and most important in his life to do his own will or to do his Father’s will. Jesus chose to do his Father’s will.

Jesus said, “Now is my soul troubled, and what shall I say? ‘Father. Save me from this hour’? No, for this purpose I have come to this hour. Father, glorify thy name.” Then a voice came from heaven, “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.” Those standing by heard it and said that it had thundered. Others said, “An angel has spoken to him.” Jesus said, “This voice has come for your sake, not for mine. Now is the judgement of this world, now shall the ruler of this world be cast out.” John 12: 27-31.

Jesus was troubled he knew the harsh reality of the Roman crucifixion, but for him it wasn’t just the physical, but also the spiritual pain he endured.

God’s witness to those who stood near him  heard God’s voice at this crucial moment. Jesus spoke of his purpose to make known the power behind sin and the defeat of the ruler of this world, his power over death through human hearts falling into sin. This victory Jesus  accomplished at Jerusalem. 

Isaiah’s prophecy

“Because of the iniquity of his covetousness I was angry, I smote him, I hid my face and was angry; but he went on backsliding in the way of his own heart. I have seen his ways, but I will heal him; I will lead him and requite him with comfort, creating for his mourners the fruit of the lips. Peace, peace, to the far and to the near, says the Lord; I will heal him.” Isaiah 57: 17, 18,

When we reflect on these words where God revealed how he felt anger as he smote Jesus bearing the sins that separate humanity from God, He watched his Son being mocked, beaten, crucified and die.

“I will heal him” God’s forgiveness through repentance and faith in Jesus what he did for us on the cross. God raised Jesus from the dead.

Sometimes, for one reason or another a Christian can backslide, that means not to lose faith, but to stop praying, reading the Bible or attending worship with other Christians. These verses remind us of the cost to God and Jesus his Son to redeem us, in order to make us right with God and to enter into the abundant grace of the Lord’s resurrection.

Moses and Elijah’s victories are part of our inheritance in Jesus Christ

Paul wrote that we are in Christ, “For through him we both have access to the one Spirit to the Father . . .  fellow citizens . . . with the household of God, built upon the foundations of the apostles and prophets Jesus  being the cornerstone. . . . the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; in whom you are also built into it for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.” Ephesians 2: 18-22.

God has broken down every barrier in Christ, his blood shed for the sins of the whole world. We are adopted into God’s family through his promise to Abraham that in him all the families of the earth would be blessed.

It’s good to be reminded of Moses and Elijah’s victories over the god of this world. The Holy Spirit  will use these victories written down so that we are encouraged and strengthened by them. We wrestle not against flesh and blood , but against these principalities and powers that they overcame by their faith being dependence on God.

Take God at his word and turn to him in repentance and faith.

“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.” Galatians 2: 20. Through faith I died to sin with Jesus and raised up with him in the power of his resurrection.

Praying using your own words or use the prayers below:

Prayer 

Lord Jesus, where I have fallen away from being an active member of the body of believers, I am reminded of the courage and dependence on God of Elijah and Moses. Please renew in me your love and forgive me of my ________in Jesus’ name. Amen

Prayer

Lord Jesus,

God the Father of us all, sent Jesus his Son into the world, to redeem us from the course and spirit of this world. In his redeeming blood he has united Jews and Gentiles through faith and grace. I accept the word revealed about Jesus that he has redeemed the world by taking my sin upon himself and dying in my place, so that I am reconciled to God. Jesus you died for my sin and in your resurrection the forgiveness of my sin, Please fill me with the joy of knowing that I am redeemed please fill me with your Holy Spirit to overflowing. In Jesus’ name. Amen

Prayer of faith

I have received, God has raised me up in his great mercy and love.I belong to Christ I am saved by faith and grace, Jesus is sovereign over the temple of my body, soul and spirit. In Jesus’ name. Amen

God has given us His Spirit to glorify Father Son and Holy Spirit

God’s love revealed in the Spirit of Jesus in the ordinary person when witnessing their faith. Those witnesses who witnessed to me where I saw their face shine like the lady at a Bury Fellowship outreach giving her testimony and the late Ronald Freeman with a beautiful halo around his head from shoulder to shoulder and in the halo the letters of the word ’love’. When I told Ron what I had seen he wasn’t aware of anything himself.

It’s encouraging when someone tells you what they have seen in you.

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The Messiah’s Secret Revealed – Christian Witness Aglow with the Spirit of Jesus

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Exodus 20: 18-22. Matthew 17: 1 – 13.

God calls us to witness our faith in Jesus and I’ve been encouraged on at least six occasions where I’ve seen Christians both men and women faces light up, aglow with the Spirit of Jesus when witnessing their faith to me.

A lady came to my market stall and we chatted about various things and when she began to witness her faith in Jesus her face lit up, just like switching on a light and her face glowed beautiful in the Spirit of Jesus.

While at work, I was passing through a room and stopped to ask a young man what was he reading? When he looked up at me and began to share what he was reading in the Bible about Jesus, his face lit up so brightly across the room.

In all three Gospel accounts the disciples Peter, James and John first saw Jesus’ face shine like the sun and his clothing became dazzling white. Luke states that Jesus was praying when his appearance changed.

All three Gospels record the presence of Elijah and Moses in conversation with Jesus.

Luke gathering information must have heard from one of the disciples what he had overheard from their conversation, “They spoke of his departure that he was to accomplish at Jerusalem.” Jesus didn’t reveal that he was the Christ during his public ministry because he knew that he had to die on the cross to accomplish God’s plan of salvation at Jerusalem.

When Jesus was dying on the cross, “Someone there in the crowd shouted. “Let’s see if Elijah will come and take him down.” The Jews were taught that Elijah would come on Passover night, every household had an empty chair at their table to signify Elijah’s coming. “The Gospel in the Feasts of Israel.” Victor Buksbazen.

They were also taught that the Christ would not come and die, when he comes he would remain for ever. Mark 15: 34. John 12: 34.  The Messiah’s Secret.

As they watched their eyes were heavy with sleep and as they were parting Peter standing close by said to Jesus, “Lord, it is well that we are here; if you wish, I will make 3 booths one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.”

Mark wrote in his account, “Peter didn’t know what to say when he suggested that he would build three booths. Barn’s Commentary suggests that Peter thought he would prolong their conversation by providing booths.

Then the cloud came and enveloped them all and they heard the voice of God, “This is my beloved Son, my chosen, in whom I am well pleased, listen to him.” Immediately they fell to the ground in awe.

The disciples hearing God’s voice from the cloud was a tremendous witness, as the disciples knew that God had spoken to Moses when he met with God on Sinai in the cloud.

“When the people saw the thunder and lightning and heard the trumpet and saw the mountain in smoke, they trembled with fear. They stayed at a distance 19 and said to Moses, “Speak to us yourself and we will listen. But do not have God speak to us or we will die.”

20 Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning.”

21 The people remained at a distance, while Moses approached the thick darkness where God was.

22 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Tell the Israelites this: ‘You have seen for yourselves that I have spoken to you from heaven.”

God’s presence was in the cloud as the voice came from the cloud.

All three accounts in the Gospels witness hearing God identify Jesus as God’s Son. Jesus is both God’s Son and King of the Kingdom of God.

The writer of Hebrews quoted from Psalm 2: 7 “”Thou art my Son, today I have begotten thee.” And  “I will be to him a father and he shall be to me a son”. Verse 8 he quoted from Psalm 45: 6,7. “”But of the son he says, “Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever. The righteous sceptre is the sceptre of thy kingdom.” Hebrews 1: 5, 8.

Peter recalls seeing His majesty, and his divinity and when the voice identified Jesus as God’s Son, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” He continued to say, “The lamp shines in a dark place, until the day dawns, and the morning star rises in your heart.”

How awesome for Peter to be in Jesus the Son of God’s presence and yet later when he was in a dark place Peter denied knowing Jesus and when Jesus’ prophecy was fulfilled the cockerel crowed, the lamp shone, he remembered Jesus’ words and gradually the day dawned on the day of Jesus’ resurrection the morning star rose in his heart. 2 Peter 1: 16-21. Revelation 22: 16.

As they descended the mountain, Jesus told them not to tell what they had seen until after he was raised from the dead. We read that they questioned what rising from the dead meant. The resurrection wasn’t understood even though the Psalmist and King David had prophesied the bodily resurrection of the Christ. On the evening of the day of Jesus’ resurrection in the house at Jerusalem, there he opened their minds and revealed the prophesies in the Law of Moses and the Psalms. Luke 24: 44-48.

At Pentecost the disciples proclaimed publicly for the first time that Jesus was the Christ, the Messiah and that God had raised Jesus from the dead. “This Jesus God raised up, and of that we all are witnesses.” Psalm 110: 1. 16: 10. Acts 2: 32.

The disciples and the leaders of Israel were taught that the resurrection of the dead would take place on the last day. John 6: 39. Job 19: 25, 26. Dan 12:2. Ezekiel 37

Coming down the mountain the disciples maybe reflected what had taken place. It would be only a short time after what they had witnessed, when they raised the question as to why Elijah was there with Moses, they had understood from the scribes that Elijah must come before the Christ.

Malachi had prophesied that Elijah would herald the Christ’s coming. Jesus said that Elijah had come, they understood him to mean John the Baptist. John had preached a baptism of repentance and pointed to Jesus as being the ‘Lamb of God’ the one who would redeem Israel from their sins. They hadn’t perhaps heard that when John baptised Jesus a voice from heaven was heard to say, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” Matthew 3: 17.

They had not recognised that John was in the Spirit of Elijah, as John didn’t perform any signs like Elijah did.

We start the #doyouknowHim? Outreach at the end of February in Ramsbottom, Hawkshaw and Edenfield. I wonder how many people will see the light of Christ in people’s faces as we witness our faith in Jesus.

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The Messiah’s Secret Revealed – Lifted up in Christ.

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The young man at the empty tomb told the three women Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Salome that Jesus was risen and then he instructed them to go and tell the disciples and Peter that Jesus was going before them to Galilee; there they would see him as he had told them. “And when they went back and told the rest, but they did not believe them.”    Mark 16: 7, 13.

The women were told to go and tell the good news that Jesus was risen from the dead. He didn’t say go and tell the men to come and I will inform them of the good news that Jesus is risen. Something had changed, the old order of women being the helper given to man so he would not be on his own as steward of the earth, having God’s word of authority to manage God’s garden, to women bearing the word from God to go and tell Jesus’ disciples and the followers and to Peter who had ‘fallen short’ his sin of unbelief that Jesus is risen from the dead.

Esther 8: 1-8.

Esther was chosen from among the virgins to take the place of Vishti the deposed Queen. 

“On that day King Ahasu-e′rus gave to Queen Esther the house of Haman, the enemy of the Jews. And Mordecai came before the king, for Esther had told what he was to her; 2 and the king took off his signet ring, which he had taken from Haman, and gave it to Mordecai. And Esther set Mordecai over the house of Haman.

3 Then Esther spoke again to the king; she fell at his feet and besought him with tears to avert the evil design of Haman the Agagite and the plot which he had devised against the Jews. 4 And the king held out the golden sceptre to Esther, 5 and Esther rose and stood before the king. And she said, “If it please the king, and if I have found favour in his sight, and if the thing seem right before the king, and I be pleasing in his eyes, let an order be written to revoke the letters devised by Haman the Agagite, the son of Hammedatha, which he wrote to destroy the Jews who are in all the provinces of the king. 6 For how can I endure to see the calamity that is coming to my people? Or how can I endure to see the destruction of my kindred?” 7 Then King Ahasuerus said to Queen Esther and to Mordecai the Jew, “Behold, I have given Esther the house of Haman, and they have hanged him on the gallows, because he would lay hands on the Jews. 8 And you may write as you please with regard to the Jews, in the name of the king, and seal it with the king’s ring; for an edict written in the name of the king and sealed with the king’s ring cannot be revoked.”

The King’s edict given to Haman was in force and therefore could not be changed only by revoking it with another edict from the king. The second edict had to be put into practice the Jews defended themselves against the first edict and were successful. Esther 9:2.

The women at the tomb followed the instruction given to them not realising the change to the status of women from being a helper and man’s soul mate, to becoming a child of God,to bear the fruit of His word. The young man who gave them the instruction was fully aware of the change . Genesis 2: 18.

There are those today who still believe that women were created to be man’s soul mate, his helper.

My own personal experience of being told that the Messiah’s Secret came through a man speaking through me and when I informed him, that when I received the words from the Lord in 1996 my church St James was in an interregnum without a priest in office.

I’ve had to make a stand like Esther going to the King, only I have gone to the King of Kings to the Lord of Lords to revoke the words of Paul of making a man the head of a women under Christ and “Let a woman learn in silence with all submissiveness. I permit no woman to teach or to have authority over men; she is to keep silent.” Paul has put women under the confines of Jewish Law for centuries, I forgive him and those who follow a man’s words. 1 Corinthians 11: 3.  1 Timothy 2: 11,12.

The Spirit bears witness to the truth, Jesus has saved me by my faith in Him, personal salvation. I am a child of God, betrothed to Christ, I have been lifted up in Christ to be  co-heir with Christ. Mary of Bethany sat listening to Jesus and he commended her for doing so. I am seated with Christ in heavenly places. I am a member of Christ’s body. Jesus being the head of the body, his church. I believe we are individually members of one another in Christ’s body.  2 Corinthians 11: 2. Luke 10: 39, 42. Romans 12: 5

The disciples didn’t believe the women.

Would God reveal such a truth ‘Jesus was risen’ to women?  Surely he would have informed one of the disciples  first. The disciples were told by Jesus that he would rise on the third day, but they couldn’t grasp what he was saying. Matthew 16: 21-23. Mark 9: 10. Yet Martha received the word concerning Jesus’ resurrection and believed Jesus, but she thought that he was referring to the last day. John 11: 24, 27. The Pharisees believed in the resurrection on the last day. Jesus taught the resurrection on the last day. John 6:40. The last day being the day of Judgement. Matthew 25: 31-46.

Jesus the seed in humanity that had to die alone to become the first of the resurrection into eternal life, Jesus’ divinity. “Truly, truly I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” John 12: 24.

“But in fact, Christ has been raised from the dead the first-fruits of those that have fallen asleep.” 1 Corinthians 15:20.

Jesus said that the truth shall set you free, the truth has set me free in Christ.

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Released from Behaviour Patterns

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Galatians 3: 26-28

Stephanie, mum of 2. Onetimethrough.com “One day I was at the book store flipping through books, my husband was occupying my daughter (I thought) when he later showed me this picture, she was standing just like me, flipping through a book. I had never seen her do that before!”

Behaviour that we adopt from  others

Paul writing to the church at Galatia was concerned that having received Jesus as their Saviour by faith, the Jews among them had reverted to living under Jewish law again and their influence was on the rest of the church.

To the Gentiles who had become Christians Paul informs them, that through faith in Jesus they were one with Jesus. “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave or free, there is neither male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

God’s family is made up of people from all over the world, who have left behind world religions, and cultures. The Holy Spirit’s ministry at Pentecost we read that the disciples in conversation with Jewish people from various countries shared the good news in their native tongue.

The Samaritan women at the well who after speaking with Jesus went back home and began to tell her fellow country men  that she had met the Christ, the Messiah. Everything that should have separated her from Jesus by tradition and the political divide had fallen away.

”Christ in You” Colossians 1: 27

 “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.” Galatians 2: 20. Through faith we died to sin with Jesus and raised up with him in the power of his resurrection.

We know that we are changed, and we begin to walk in newness of life in the Spirit of Jesus. Instead of selfishness – love for other people, instead of fear – courage, instead of weakness – strength, instead of deceit and lust – righteousness and purity.

Our old nature will try to restore old behaviour. 

“I would be grateful if the member of the congregation who keeps calling out, “Praise the Lord!” would kindly cease and remember that this is the house of God.”                Church Chuckles’ Phil Mason                                          

We are born into a human family with its genetic traits e.g. boys/girls with red hair, twins etc. As we grow up we identify a characteristic with a parent or a relative. However, it’s quite common for a child to imitate a parent’s words or mannerism.

Onetimethrough.com “I’m not exempt from admitting that my son has imitated my husband’s and my “less than desirable behaviours” when my son was at an early-years drop in centre and was driving a play car and shouted, “Get out of my way, idiot!” at some other children.” 

From my own study of Peter, in Paul’s letter to the Galatians he recounts the behaviour pattern of Peter the Apostle on his visit to the church at Antioch. “For before certain men came from James, Peter ate with Gentiles, but when they came, he drew back and separated himself fearing the Circumcision Party, and with him the rest of the Jews acted insincerely, so that even Barnabas was carried away with their insincerity.” Galatians 2: 12,13.

Before Paul came to faith, Peter had taken the good news to Gentile Cornelius.

Peter had a vision where a sheet descended from heaven bearing all kinds of creatures, the angel told Peter to ‘Kill and eat.” Peter alarmed by this said he had never eaten anything that was not (Kosher) specified by the law. Three men came to the house and asked for Peter, they told him that Cornelius a Centurion who feared God, had been instructed by an angel to send for Peter he had a message from God for him. Peter must have realised that the vision was in association with Cornelius’ request. He went with them to the home of Cornelius and there he told them about Jesus’ ministry, his death, resurrection and that they were his witnesses. While he was speaking the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. Acts 10 All that had separated Peter from the Gentiles fell away through their faith in Jesus.

Afterwards Peter was criticised by the Circumcision Party for eating with Gentiles. He shared with them the vision and the spirit told Peter to go with men to Cornelius’ home ‘making no distinction.’ Peter said, “The Holy Spirit fell on them just as on them at the beginning. “When they heard this they were silenced and they glorified God, saying, ‘Then to the Gentiles God has granted repentance to life.” Acts 11

Even though hearing his account had silenced them and they even glorified God, Peter wasn’t free from their condemnation. At Antioch Peter was still affected, fearing the criticism of the Circumcision Party. That’s why he drew back and separated himself, and his behaviour then influenced the other Jews with him.  Galatians 5: 17

Peter’s released from his behaviour patterns 

Peter’s second letter Chapter one verse one the Lord showed me that he had been healed, he writes “To those who have obtained a faith of equal standing with ours.“ This shows that he has accepted the Gentiles as his equal in Christ. He elaborates by going on to state, “And become partakers of the divine nature.” His way of saying ‘One with Christ’ and ‘Christ in you’. It’s the truth that has set him free. At the end of his letter he comments that some of Paul’s words are hard to understand.                                                              

Peter points out what makes up the divine nature: supplement your faith with virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection and love. “For if you do these things they will keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”  2 Peter 1: 1-11

Peter was released from being spiritually under law.

Even though Peter knew Jesus as his Saviour he had been under law regarding the Gentiles. Paul taught the Gentiles were one with the Jews in Christ. Peter couldn’t see it spiritually, that was why he separated himself from the Gentiles at Antioch. When he did see and understand what Paul was saying, he must have known that his fear and condemnation of what the Circumcision Party might think, stemmed from his former stance under law and as a result made him ineffective and unfruitful, I don’t think he would have used those words if he hadn’t experienced it for himself,

It’s important for every Christian to be free from being under law, not looking to rules to set our behaviour patterns. Colossians 2: 6. 2: 4-6.

Peter’s guidelines: add to faith virtue – moral behaviour, knowledge – knowing God the Father, Jesus and Holy Spirit, self-control – spiritual integrity, steadfastness – faithful, reliable, godliness – reverence towards God, brotherly/sisterly affection – comforting presence of the Holy Spirit and peace(shalom) –  love – patient, kind 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7.

As believers we are led by the Holy Spirit in fellowship with one another. Praying seeking to do God’s will for where the Lord wants his gospel heard. The Holy Spirit acts on our witness, as we make Christ known.

Recently I’ve been studying ‘ Keys to Freedom ‘ a course designed to help people with behaviour problems .  Mercy UK

Continuing the theme of behaviour patterns.                       .

Doc Martin’s behaviour pattern

A popular TV drama series Doc Martin, the main characters Dr Martin Ellingham played by Martin Clunes and his wife Louisa played by Caroline Catz.

The programme revolves around Ellingham’s interactions with the local Cornish villagers. Despite his medical excellence, Ellingham is grouchy, contentious, and lacks social manners.  His direct, emotionless manner offends many of the villagers, made worse by his invariably unpleasant responses to their ignorant, often foolish, comments. They perceive him to be hot-tempered and lacking in a bedside manner, whereas he feels he is performing his duties in a professional and by-the-book manner, not wasting time chatting. He does not smoke and has no hesitation in pointing out the risks of unhealthy behaviours, both in private and in public gatherings.

Good side to Doc Martin  

Martin’s skill as a doctor shows medical excellence  

Performing his duties in a professional and ‘by the book’ manner.                                                                                        

Martin doesn’t smoke Tabaco

Self-controlled.

Serving others.

Martin had compassion for people when he was called to respond to an emergency.Doc Martin and Louisa had therapy sessions with Rachel Timoney and he sought advice for his blood phobia.              

Let’s not be modest – work out what are our good points.___________ 

Martin’s less favourable points

He is grouchy, abrupt, confrontational and lacks bedside and social manners.

He is direct, emotionless, hot-tempered, not wasting time chatting to patients.

In public or private gatherings, he points out the risks of unhealthy behaviours.

It’s important that Martin recognised the cause of his behaviour patterns

Doc Martin’s and Louisa’s therapy sessions identified a major cause of Martin’s  behaviour problems: his relationship with his parents. His parents had a distant, cold relationship that affected Martin growing up. He wasn’t cuddled by his mum when a cuddle is an expression of ‘I love you, I’m here for you.’ Rachel recommends Martin and Louisa should have a hug every day.

God’s healing love worked out in our life.

Family or friends can reveal to us what our behaviour patterns are. If we recognise things that we need to change, and this may lead us to bring them before the Lord in prayer. The release from our hurt can bring about physical healing as well.

 “Prayer must surround everything we do, whether we’re sad or happy, suffering or cheerful. Prayer that is based on the fact that the Christian stands at the overlap point of heaven and earth.” “The person praying stands with one foot on earth in the place of trouble, sickness and sin and with the other foot in the place in heaven of healing, forgiveness and hope.” Tom Wright’s Study on ‘Prayer’

What influences can we relate to in our behaviour patterns?____________________

We are one with Christ, the power of this behaviour pattern is broken through faith in his name Jesus Christ our Lord. “Christ has set us free to live a free life. So take your stand! Never again let anyone put a harness of slavery on you.”         Galatians 5: 1. Message Bible

Prayer

Lord Jesus, you bore on the cross every cause of sin and sickness, and in your resurrection,  we find release from cause and effect of behaviour patterns in our lives. As we have received you into our life through faith in Jesus’ blood we have been forgiven and we are called to forgive those who sin against us.

I pray for forgiveness where I have sinned and I forgive those who have sinned against me. As a child of God, I am able to stand and claim Jesus’ victory over the cause_______ and affect________ of this behaviour pattern in my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

 “If you abide in me and my words abide in you, ask whatever you will and it shall be done for you.” John 15: 7

Jesus said, “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have already received it and it will be yours.” Mark 11: 24.

 

 

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Christians Together Haslingden – Liberated by God

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Liberated by God in areas of our life. 

Our Saviour Jesus has liberated us from: sin and condemnation.

Set free to worship God in Spirit and in truth. Free to give him the glory of his saving grace    Free to walk with him till the end life’s journey.  Free to bear the fruit of his love. Free to love and serve him, in this world,  in fellowship with heaven.

There are areas of our life that most likely haven’t been liberated yet.

Paul’s Letter to Philemon.    RSV Bible

Apostle Paul wrote in his letter to Philemon over his concern about Philemon’s former slave Onesimus. Paul was under house arrest when he wrote this letter, Onesimus had come to faith and was helping and serving Paul at the time of writing.

Paul spoke highly of Philemon’s ministry

Paul appealed to Philemon’s ministry of refreshment to his fellow Christians, refreshment meaning helping Christians who perhaps were going through difficult situations, where they needed prayer and practical support.

Paul wrote as a mediator between Philemon and Onesimus.

We understand that Onesimus had run away from Philemon’s home where he lived as a slave. But when he left, he stole from him.

Philemon was probably angry and hurt when he did this to him. Slavery was the norm throughout Ancient Egypt, and Greece as well as Roman. All slaves and their families were the property of their owners, who could sell or rent them out at any time. Their lives were harsh slaves were often whipped, branded, abused or cruelly mistreated, their owner could kill them for any reason, facing no punishment. 

Onesimus became a Christian

After leaving Philemon’s home he came in contact with a Christian and he received Jesus as his Saviour and like us today, through faith he died to sin with Jesus and was raised up with him in the power of his resurrection.

We know that we are changed, and we begin to walk in newness of life. Instead of selfishness – love for other people, instead of fear – courage, instead of weakness – strength.

Onesimus was a free man in Christ, just as Philemon and we are, free in Christ

When we see this liberty in the life of Onesimus, his past sins forgiven, but the Holy Spirit maybe convicted him to get right with Philemon. Therefore, Onesimus was repentant and forgave the injustice he had suffered in Philemon’s house.

Paul was like a father to Onesimus, he expressed how much he loved him, “he was sending his very heart.” Paul suggested to Philemon that God had allowed his former slave, to be parted from him for a little while, so now he could have him back for ever. Meaning he’s entered eternal life, so now he’s his brother in Christ.

Paul appealed to him to set him free from being his slave and he would reimburse him on behalf of Onesimus.

Paul seemed concerned that Philemon’s old nature might arise and make him a slave again “That your goodness might not be by compulsion, but of your own free will.” Perhaps he had observed that he kept this area of his life excluded from his faith. Do we tell all our friends that we are a Christian? Do Christians separate business areas of their life from their faith.

Paul also put it to Philemon that Onesimus could stay with him and serve him on his behalf, so fulfilling his obligation as a slave. But Paul wouldn’t take that decision upon himself. He was hoping that Philemon would forgive him and take him back as a brother in Christ.:

If he forgave Onesimus it wouldn’t have been a stamp of approval for what he did. But to forgive him would heal his own hurt and anger and that would be liberating for both of them.

Certainly, Paul didn’t want Onesimus to return to slavery to become a man’s property, now he belonged to Christ.

Wilberforce opened this area of people’s lives to apply the words of faith and brought liberty to slaves.

William Wilberforce for 18 years he regularly introduced anti-slavery motions in Parliament. Many Christian Victorians had bought into the slave trade, they owned slaves. After slavery was abolished in 1807 many would lose money buying and selling slaves; in 1833 slavery owners on the plantations were compensated.  It shows that still for many Christians that this area of their lives where closed to God.

Modern Slavery

The  Manchester Evening News reported on 7th Nov 2018 that 10 potential victims of slavery were liberated.  Some were Polish, Czechs and British.  The sting took place in Levenshulme Manchester at ‘Drive & Shine’ Car Wash.

The definition of Modern slavery involves the movement or recruitment of individuals using threats, deception or other means for the purpose of exploitation.

When we experience God’s liberation on areas of our life, it fills a person with great joy.

God liberates us from fear, danger, enslavement of sin and brings us great joy, peace and fills us with his love.

Christian Unity Week Theme ‘Only Justice.’

God of all, you have shown us the path of justice.

You are the Father of the orphan.

You are the constant companion of the widow.

You are the friend of the stranger.

In each of these, may we meet you and recognise the wind of your Spirit, moving us towards the need for justice.

In all that we do, may we know your grace and mercy and offer healing and justice in your name.

Amen.

By Dorothy Newton