Chapter 4 from the book Raised Up (narration)
Chapter Four
“Raised Up”
Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you. 2 Corinthians 4:14
In the context of this passage, the Holy Spirit is speaking through His servant Paul to those who are “Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus.” The promise of being “raised up” in verse 14 (above) is to those whose lives are “dead” and who are therefore “hid with Christ in God” (Col. 3:3). The “remnant” are specifically identified in that they have sentenced the self-life to death and “have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts” (Isa. 37:31; 2 Cor. 1:19; Gal. 5:24). They are dying downward as God raises them upward in His holy power. Here are the inspired words that precede the verse above:
Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. So then death worketh in us, but life in you. ~ 2 Corinthians 4:10-12
The phrase “raised up” appears 46 times in Holy Scripture. So that we begin to be infused with the divine rhythm and sequence of the true Gospel (death, burial, resurrection), we’re going to look at some of the verses in which we find the phrase “raised up,” also keeping in mind that God never raises something that isn’t first dead and buried.
Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened (brought back to life), except it die. ~ 1 Corinthians 15:36
As you are reading these verses below, remember that Jesus was raised up only after He chose to lay down His life for us in obedience to His and our Father (Jn. 12:23- 25, 32; 1 Cor. 15:1-4). God only raises up that which willingly lays itself down and dies. There has to first be a death before there can be a resurrection or raising up.
Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. ~ John 12:24-25
Jesus speaks here of two types of people: “He that loveth his life” and “he that hateth his life in this world.” What did He say will be the end of each?
- “He that loveth his life shall lose it.”
- “He that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.”
Is your life laid down today? Are you crucified with Christ? Have you set your affection on things above and sentenced your self-life to death as you are looking for the soon return of Jesus? (See 2 Cor. 1:9; Col. 3:1-4; Gal. 2:20; 5:24.)
He that always waits upon God is ready whensoever He calls … he is a happy man who so lives as that death at all times may find him at leisure to die. ~ Owen Feltham
Get your copy of Raised Up now.
As was the case with the Son of God, so it is with us. There has to first be a laying down of our lives before there can be a resurrection or raising up.
The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them. ~ Matthew 11:5
Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it. ~ Acts 2:24
This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. ~ Acts 2:32
Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities. ~ Acts 3:26
The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. ~ Acts 5:30
Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly. ~ Acts 10:40
Just as God “raised up” our LORD Jesus from the dead, He also promised to raise us up as we waive all personal rights to self and count ourselves dead with Christ (Rom. 6:3-5).
But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. ~ Romans 8:11
There is the presence and thread of death, burial, and resurrection woven throughout Scripture. The Gospel is embedded in the Holy Scriptures because death, burial, and resurrection are an integral part of “the thoughts of his heart,” which are transmitted and recorded for us in His Word (Ps. 33:11). You may wish to begin watching for the frequent reoccurrence of the down and ups (Gospel) throughout Scripture. Here are more words of the LORD which reveal the down-up cadence of the Gospel witnessed throughout Scripture:
They that were full have hired out themselves for bread; and they that were hungry ceased: so that the barren hath born seven; and she that hath many children is waxed feeble. The LORD killeth, and maketh alive: he bringeth down to the grave, and bringeth up. The LORD maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and lifteth up. He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the LORD‘s, and he hath set the world upon them. He will keep the feet of his saints, and the wicked shall be silent in darkness; for by strength shall no man prevail. ~ 1 Samuel 2:5-9
The LORD upholdeth all that fall, and raiseth up all those that be bowed down. ~ Psalms 145:14
Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus (death), that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body (resurrection life). For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. So then death worketh in us, but life in you … Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you. ~ 2 Corinthians 4:9-14
This divine pattern is seen in no more vivid a fashion than in the life and mission of our LORD Jesus:
And he began to teach them, that the Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders, and of the chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again.” Mark 8:31
The saving Gospel defined:
Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures. ~ 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
- “Christ died”
- “was buried”
- “rose again”
Joy Set Forth
Do you work out just for the pain of it? Surely not. Or, have you ever worked out to train your body for some personal athletic purpose? Why did you work out? Because you desired a certain result? Correct? Obviously, those who work out have a goal to look, and feel, or perform a certain way, right? Yes, people usually work out and endure the burn and pain in order to obtain the desired outcome. Those who exercise or train their bodies are willing to sacrifice and suffer extreme physical discomfort in order to receive the desired results because the desire to obtain that result outweighs the pain associated with getting that result. They long to achieve a certain goal, and that goal is the joy set forth to encourage their endurance and hard work. Once the athlete begins accomplishing his anticipated result, he becomes glad that he started the process, though it induces and requires pain. The desired result is worth the pain. “The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul” (Proverbs 13:19).
In the same way that the athlete drives himself through daily, painstaking training to accomplish his desired outcome, and is satisfied when that result arrives, so the saint, when he begins to grasp what the Gospel really is as pertains to his daily life, and his relationship with Christ, will gladly begin to lay his life downward in order to be raised upward by Christ. In the beginning, when we first hear of and begin pondering the cross and dying to self, perhaps some of us shun the pain. Then, when the Spirit begins leading us to conformity with Christ’s death and burial, we take a step forward in obedience, and unfailingly the LORD is there to raise us up in His blessed power. When we begin to experience the Gospel in a personal way—laying down our lives and being raised up—this writer believes we can acquire a godly addiction to the life and fruit that comes out of this cross and resurrection experience.
Paul told us that as he bore in his body the dying of Jesus, the divine life worked in him and through him to bless others (2 Cor. 4:10-12). It is certain that there is more than the dying and burial process—there is the blessed resurrection or raising up. This is one part of what should motivate the disciple to die—that he might see the LORD raise him up in His holy power in this late hour.
Jesus endured His torturous and cruel cross for the joy of redeeming you and me. The pain came before the joy or desired result. There was a desired reaping that made Him willing and obedient to endure the excruciating pain and suffering for our sins.
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. ~ Hebrews 12:2
After Christ endured His cross, the Father raised Him up and gave under His command “all power in heaven and in earth” and gave to “him a name which is above every name” (Matt. 28:18-20).
Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. ~ Philippians 2:4-13
If Jesus came to the earth, divesting Himself and taking on the form of a man, humbling Himself from Godhood to servant, how much more shall we humble ourselves, laying down our lives for Christ and His beloved people, and precious souls who need His salvation? Is our descent not a far lesser trip than was His? It should be a short journey, right? Short, in comparison to His. As the Most High God and Creator of all that is, Christ’s condescension to the lowly place of mere humankind was a distant journey (though He was the sinless Son of man).
In this magnificent passage (Philippians 2), we just read of God becoming a man. Not only did He who made all that is, come to this sin-cursed earth incarnated into humanity, the Eternal Word came as a Servant to humble Himself and become “obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” God the Father therefore “hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name.” Jesus promised to raise up and to give all of His saints who overcome, a “new name.” Read these two verses from Revelation closely.
He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it. ~ Revelation 2:17
Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name. ~ Revelation 3:12
Christ tells us here that a brand “new name” and a permanent place, as a “pillar in the temple of my God” awaits all who answer His call to repent and be saved, and who also overcome the flesh, the world, and the devil. These are the remnant who will be raised up to reign with Christ eternally—“they … are … called, and chosen, and faithful.” Jesus said that those who overcome and will be raised up to reign with Him eternally are not only “called” by God, but also “chosen, and faithful.” There is a partnership and agreement. God sovereignly calls them and chooses them, and they choose to be “faithful,” enduring to the end, loving not their lives even unto death (Rev. 12:11; 17:14). The honest student of Scripture refuses to acquiesce to the diabolical myth that supposes that man has no part in the reception and retention of salvation.
(See the book Lie of the Ages, at STORE page)
These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful. ~ Revelation 17:14
As our LORD came and was obedient to His Father in all things, how shall we, who are purchased by His precious blood, not become obedient unto the death of the self-life, setting aside our own will and agenda, waiving all personal rights, and girding ourselves to become His servants? Will He who raised Christ up to the highest place in the Universe not lift us up to please and glorify Him here and now, and to reign with Him eternally?
Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. ~ Revelation 20:6
Beloved, God is working in each of His saints “both to will and to do of his good pleasure” (Php. 2:13). “His good pleasure” is to get us to become “obedient unto death, even the death of the cross” so that He can raise us up in His holy power to be like Christ, and to rule with Him in the coming world. This is the mind of Christ (Php. 2:5-13).
PRAYER: Holy Father, please grant my heart to see beyond this life and into the much larger scope of the coming world, where Christ will reign supreme, and the government shall rest upon His shoulders alone. Anoint this life with Your Holy Ghost to the burial of my sinful self-life. I love You Jesus and thank You for Your perfect sacrifice for me without which I could not be forgiven, saved into Your kingdom. Father, I know and believe that You will raise up this life You gave here and eternally as You bless this heart to trust You and obey Your command to become obedient unto the death of my self-life. I here and now joyfully and willingly submit my life to Your lordship. Into Your hands I now commend my spirit. In Jesus’ Name. Amen
Capture Points
- Who did the LORD promise to raise up? 2 Corinthians 4:10-14.
- What should every believer bear in his body daily? 2 Corinthians 4:10-11.
- What works in and through Christ’s saints, as death to self, works in them? 2 Corinthians 4:12.
REVIEWS
“Power packed, scripture rich book! Highly recommended!!” Dana
“I am on the 6th chapter of this book and these are really good. I will also be ordering your book I Die Daily. Wow so much more than I incurred. This is so power-packed! I have to finish because this is awesome. A fully surrendered life is a life well lived in the death even as our Lord and Savior.” Carol
“This is yet another uplifting and encouraging read from author Todd Tomasella. In Raised Up, the author offers up a fresh look and understanding of our purpose in life, our relationship with God through Jesus. He shows the reader in such a way (as God designed it) that we can have total victory over evil by casting ourselves aside by acknowledging the cross and Jesus’ work on a daily basis. Truly living a life victorious. The central theme of Raised Up is 2 Corinthians 4:14; “Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.” This “raising up” occurs when we deeply, and honestly pursue God wholeheartedly. Todd shares in this volume that the deeper we grow in Christ Jesus, the more we become servants as Jesus exemplified for us. Encouraging truths indeed! Todd’s palatable style of writing woos the reader in right from the beginning and as in his other volumes, scripture reference has been bolded for easy back referencing. Raised Up could easily serve as part or all of your daily devotional reading chapter by chapter or used as a wonderful group study. Another great life book from Todd!” Jesse
Support | STORE | Podcasts | Prayer | Manhood | The Conquering Cross of Christ [podcast] | The Cross Victory | Sin – Man’s Core Problem
Abiding
Kiss Jesus Or be Crushed as His Enemy! [podcast]
Satan’s Pitiful Petty Perverted Pawns have an Expiration Date!
“Behold, the day of the LORD cometh, cruel both with wrath and fierce anger, to lay the land desolate: and he shall destroy the sinners thereof out of it.” Isaiah 13:9
Psalm 2 is Prophetic of Christ and of His Return to Take back Possession of His Planet, Earth
The Reign of the Lord’s Anointed
1 Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing?
2 The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying,
3 Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us.
4 He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision.
5 Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure.
6 Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion.
7 I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.
8 Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession.
9 Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter’s vessel.
10 Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth.
11 Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling.
12 Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.
GOD told us He’s laughing at these luciferians and all their “elaborate plans” to control humanity. Read Psalms 2. Jesus is coming. His enemies will be crushed under His holy, Almighty feet (Romans 16:20).
“And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.” Romans 16:20
The future belongs exclusively to Jesus Christ and His followers. Read the book of Revelation!
“And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.” Matthew 21:44
Jesus is coming back “In flaming fire taking vengeance.”
“And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, 8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; 10 When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.” 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10
The Coming of the Son of Man
“And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; 26 Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. 27 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.” Luke 21:25-28
Just as Aaron’s rod swallowed up the rods of the sorcerers of Egypt (the world), so shall Christ’s kingdom swallow up the kingdoms of this world! (Exodus 7:12; Daniel 2:44; 7:14) Will you be a part of Christ’s eternal kingdom?
“And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.” Revelation 11:15
Bow now or burn forever.
All who refuse to repent, bowing down to “kiss the Son” of God will perish in their own corruption and be violently vanquished into the bowels of eternal damnation, the prison of fire, which will then be “cast into the lake of fire.”
“And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” Revelation 20:14-15
“EVERY Knee”
“Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:9-11
Support | STORE | Podcasts | Jail/Prison Ministry | Mexico Mission here | The Return of Christ | Stewardship | Where to Give and Where Not to Give | Fruit Abounding to Your Account! | Consider Your Ways [podcast] | Consider and Build [podcast] | Holes in Your Money Bags? [podcast] | Dollar Dialogue | Jesus Sat Over Against The Treasury [podcast] | Escaping Sodom! | Waste | Stewardship | Giving | Fellowship
Abiding
WHAT is the Context of Fighting the Good Fight of Faith? [podcast]
Dancing on the Defeated Devil’s Grave! Get some! Now!
What was Paul speaking of when he declared that Christ’s disciples must “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses”? (1 Timothy 6:12)
First off, it’s a “good fight” because we are going to win – yet only if we do things God’s way with no compromise. What do we fight against? What must we put under foot, conquer and reign victorious over?
What did the Holy Spirit in Paul mean by fighting the good fight of faith? Think context.
You have to “fight” to keep these damning sins out of your life – and the way you “fight” is to be rich in giving – otherwise you will have a sand foundation that will not stand in the judgment. You will go to Hell irrevocably. This is the clear teaching of Scripture, throughout. Read this closely:
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. 9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.” 1 Timothy 6:6-12
Wisdom is fellowshipping with those who are on fire for Jesus, who refuse to be lukewarm, who are fighting the good fight of faith, who are finishing their course, who are keeping the faith (2 Timothy 4:7) …. who make you wonder if you are saved. Conviction.
The cross is an absolute essential in the life of every saint of Christ. There will be no overcoming without putting the cross at the center of our daily lives. Paul said:
“But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.” 1 Corinthians 9:27
Eternal security is the fairytale of counterfeits.
Jesus told us that the cross is “daily” (Luke 9:23-24). It must be daily or you will fall away. No one can truly serve God on any other terms but the ones He has set forth. The cross must be at the center of your life. You must plant, drive that stake in the ground. Your heart and life will never be flooded with His love, peace, power, and joy until you do.
Those who don’t endure to the end after being saved are going to hell (Matthew 10:22; 24:13; Hebrews 10:26-39).
Do you truly love God above self and all else? That’s the big question. If you love God supremely, you will give Him the preference in the life He gave you and for which you will give full account to Him.
Do you truly desire the power of God to function in your life? The cross is His way beloved.
YOU, yes you are in a war. The cross is the instrument of your death so that Christ, who is “the resurrection and the life” might reign in and through your life (John 11:25). Don’t even think you’re going to conquer devils, principalities, when you haven’t even conquered your own heart, soul, lusts, and life.
“He must increase, but I must decrease.” John 3:30
Scarcely will we hear a man preach on the cross – the crucified life – which proves he himself is not taking up his cross. And the cross is a non-negotiable essential in the divine economy. Never wait for any other man to take up the cross or preach it. You do it. God holds you 100% responsible to do so – and you will appear before the Almighty to give full account for doing so, or not.
The war is won within – as you push your love upward to God and outward to men. This must be the labor of love deliberately won by fighting, battling through everything that seeks to assume first place in your life, time, your thoughts, your heart, your affections, etc. God only raises up crucified – dead and buried disciples. THAT’s when the victory is won and such a crucified disposition must be diligently procured daily by the cross – knowing that God is only going to raise up the surrendered soul.
Memorize:
“Let us labour (fight) therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.” Hebrews 4:11
Treasure that will be Eternally Tremendous or Trouncing
Where your money is proves where your heart is …. Take a look at your bank statement and see where the money is going and also your investments and property. There is where you will see where your heart truly is. Your bank statement will reveal to you who you really are – as in contrast with who you may claim to be. The self-deception will be exposed.
Getting “honest” in your “heart” and life are a required essential to bear fruit unto everlasting life with Christ, the Father, and the saints (Luke 8:15).
Jesus says: “WHERE you treasure (money) is, THERE will your heart be also” (Matthew 6:21).
Are you pouring into Christ’s kingdom? If not, what does that actually reveal about your life at this moment? – It reveals that you love this world, you love your life in this world.
Isn’t it time to lose your life in this world?
“So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.” Luke 14:33
Is Christ your Protector or is your money? Remember, you will soon be separated from your money – and stand naked before the Almighty (Job 1:21; 1 Timothy 6:6-11). What shall you say to Him in that day? Will He declare over you “Well done” or “Depart from me”? Read Matthew 25:40-46.
“Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life shall preserve it.” Luke 17:33
If you are rich toward yourself instead of “rich toward God” – you chose to forsake Christ, even though you were running a lot of religious interference. God sees through it all. Read what Christ taught in Luke 12:15-21 and 16:19-31.
Are the authentic ministries you know of, who feed you and others, well stocked with supply, fuel to function? Do you realize they have monthly bills and have a family to provide for as they have answered God’s call to do the infinitely most important and only eternal work in the earth?
Jesus spoke of those who are and those who aren’t “rich toward God.” Those “rich toward God” have God first and nothing else. Nothing gets spent before Christ’s workers and work are supplied. They make sure Christ’s work and workers are fully fueled. They are the bless-ed Obadiahs and Epaphroditus’ of our day.
Who was Epaphroditus? Well, he was like Obadiah in the days of Elijah and the other true prophets of God. He kept laborers of the Gospel supplied so they could function in the calling of the LORD on their lives.
“Lay up for yourself treasure in Heaven, not things on the earth. Because it will all burn up one day, all will be lost. Can’t take anything of this earth’s wealth with you. Only all you’ve given to God will last. Give as a cheerful giver. Jesus cheerfully gave His life for you. He died for you to save you. Our giving will not out give God. Supporting the work of the Lord is laying up treasures in Heaven. God Bless.” Darlene
Epaphroditus is the New Testament Equivalent to Obadiah
Timothy and Epaphroditus
“And Ahab called Obadiah, which was the governor of his house. (Now Obadiah feared the LORD greatly: 4 For it was so, when Jezebel cut off the prophets of the LORD, that Obadiah took an hundred prophets, and hid them by fifty in a cave, and fed them with bread and water.)” 1 Kings 18:3-4
Read Philippians 2:19-30 to discover how this man, this brother in Christ named Epaphroditus, supplied Paul and the ministry of Christ.
WHO was Obadiah in the Days of Ahab and Jezebel?
“And Ahab called Obadiah, which was the governor of his house. (Now Obadiah feared the LORD greatly: 4 For it was so, when Jezebel cut off the prophets of the LORD, that Obadiah took an hundred prophets, and hid them by fifty in a cave, and fed them with bread and water.)” 1 Kings 18:3-4
“Jezebel cut off the prophets of the LORD” (1 Kings 18:4). Through his ministers that held high positions within the kingdom of God, the devil “cut off” the supply of finances to those prophets who remained in the truth, refusing to compromise with the system and majority. God-fearing Obadiah secretly supplied these servants of Christ with food and water to sustain their lives. Is there any new thing under the sun? No. In our day, when those few who refuse to compromise are being cut off from financial supply by those who have a stranglehold on the control of 99% of the finances flowing in the church world, we, the remnant, have been called out to be like Obadiah and supply those who remain true to the LORD in serving His people. See 1 Kings 18.
The Most Dangerous and Prevalent Sins?
“For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor COVETOUS man, who is an IDOLATER, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.” Ephesians 5:5-6
One man of God noted that “More people will be in Hell for covetousness and greed than all other sins combined.” The honest student of Holy Scripture cannot but agree to this. There is a direct connection between your money and the Messiah, your supply and the Savior.
Those not laying up treasure in Heaven (digging their way into Hell) prove such by not being “rich toward God” but are rather rich toward the god of self, who cannot save them from eternal damnation.
“Yes! Amen. Jesus shine your light into my heart and reveal your truth to me. I can hide and not want to know what is in me. Turn up the heat so I will surrender to you what is not of you.” Karen Cochran
Jesus Instructs You to Lay Up Treasures in Heaven
“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: 20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: 21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. 22 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. 23 But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! 24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” Matthew 6:19-24
At the end of his earthly life, the apostle Paul could declare with clear conscience:
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: 8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8
Sin must be warded off, must be kept at bay, must be put under foot by the cross, the crucified life. There are not shortcuts. Knowing you are expected to cling to and know and walk with Jesus is one thing – and walking it out is another. Here’s a memory verse:
“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7
Those who answer the call of God to do His work forego, waive, give up their own earnings in this passing world in order to obey God by feeding and equipping His precious sheep for whom He died and rose again (John 15:16; 21:15-17; Acts 6:4; 15:26; 20:24; 1 Corinthians 9:1-14, etc.). It’s a blessing for us to be able to contribute, to get behind this most important and only eternal work of our LORD transpiring in His earth as His children live in fervent expectation of His glorious and soon return.
“Earth is planning for war.
Heaven is preparing for a wedding.” unknown
This is not our home beloved saints of Christ. NO ONE is going to do His glorious Gospel work except HIS own children – and that’s us!
“WE are labourers TOGETHER with God.” 1 Corinthians 3:9
Jesus Christ is KING.
YOUR PRAYER OF REPENTANCE: Holy Father, I come to You now in the name of Jesus Christ and ask You to forgive my sin of self-idolatry, of spiritual adultery. I have lived in sin, in pride, in self-love and am now turning wholly to Thee my God – asking You to wash me clean, to clear my sin by Your precious blood LORD Jesus. Here and now I denounce all covetousness for the trinkets of this world and choose, from this moment forth, to be rich toward You dear LORD – in getting behind and fueling Your Gospel work in the earth. In the name of Jesus Christ – let’s roll Jesus! Amen.
Support | STORE | Podcasts | Because You Care Page | The Greatest of these is Charity | Be Ready in the Morning [podcast] | The Sure Mercies of David [podcast] | That Repentance and Remission of Sins should be Preached [podcast] | At His Feet | Prepared to be Used of God | Walking with Jesus on His Stated Terms – the Cross | Fasting and Prayer | The Old Man Must be Put Down [podcast] | The 5 Sins That Keep God’s People Out of Their Promised Land [podcast] | What Did Paul Mean by “I Keep Under My Body”? [podcast] | “Jesus the Author and Finisher of our Faith” [podcast] | A Living Sacrifice unto God [podcast] | Departing from Hell Beneath | Prayer
Abiding
LORD, Prepare Me! [podcast]
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: 8 for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” Matthew 7:7-8
“He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.” John 14:21
“Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” John 14:23
“If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, and prepared unto every good work.” 2 Timothy 2:21
“But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.” Matthew 6:6
“Seek the Lord and his strength, seek his face continually.” 1 Chronicles 16:11
“And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever.” 1 Chronicles 28:9
Support | STORE | Podcasts | Jail/Prison Ministry | Mexico Mission here | All Ministry Updates | The Return of Christ | Stewardship | Apostate Modern Church Exposed | Beware of the BUZZ WORD Bandits [podcast] | Preach the Word | Wolves Exposed | Giving | Fellowship | Christology = the Study of Christ
Bowels of Mercies [podcast]
Kiss Jesus Or be Crushed as His Enemy! [podcast]
Mission Mexico Part 31
Mother Teresa was a Fraud [podcast]
The Truth about Fellowship and Going to “Church” [podcast]
Death and Resurrection
Settled at His Feet [video]
WHAT is the Context of Fighting the Good Fight of Faith? [podcast]
Satan’s First Lie that He is Still Telling Today! [podcast]
LORD, Prepare Me! [podcast]
The Truth about Fellowship and Going to “Church”
Dispensationalism Exposed as an Antichrist Cult [podcast]
THE DEVIL IS A LIAR [podcast]
Soul Sleep Exposed: Where Do We Go When We Die?
The First Commandment with Promise [podcast]
Mother Teresa was a Fraud [podcast]
Dispensationalism Exposed as an Antichrist Cult [podcast]
Rejecting the Swine: Swine Among Us! [podcast]
Satan’s First Lie that He is Still Telling Today! [podcast]
Sending the Divine Light into “The Prison House” [podcast]
The Lying Vanity of “Eternal Security” [podcast]
WHAT’S On Jesus’ Prayer List? [podcast]
Tozer: The Cross
Bowels of Mercies [podcast]
Parenting and the Eternal Destiny of Your Child [podcast]
LIE OF THE AGES: From the Garden to Glory [podcast]
The Goal of the Ungodly Eternal Security Teachers [podcast]
Settled at His Feet [video]
Kiss Jesus Or be Crushed as His Enemy! [podcast]
The First Commandment with Promise [podcast]
Bowels of Mercies [podcast]
Kiss Jesus Or be Crushed as His Enemy! [podcast]
Mission Mexico Part 31
-
America9 months agoThe Drugging of America: The Pharmakeia Sorcery Deception [podcast]
-
Articles2 years ago
Children being Rescued in Tunnels: Happening Now – UPDATE!
-
Articles8 years ago
Self-Examination in Preparation for the Lord’s Return
-
Apostasy2 years ago
SHOCKING List of False Prophets Most Believe are True
Providing Christ-centered Scripture-rich resources to feed, edify, and equip the body of Christ (John 21:15-17; Ephesians 4:11-15).
Navigation
Quick links
Newsletter
Stay updated of the ministry operations. We saved a spot for you on the ministry email list.
© 2025 Safe Guard Your Soul. All Rights Reserved