Abiding

The Rich Benefits of Communion – “The Lord’s Supper”

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“…The Lord’s supper.” 1 Corinthians 11:20

Many agree that the LORD seems to have given His New Testament church two ordinances…perhaps a third. An ordinance is a point of contact or physical enactment with a spiritual truth, reality. These are for born again believers and NOT in an attempt to become a Christian but only for those already born again into Christ. First, you must be born again:

1. Water baptism – to depict our own death, burial, and resurrection with Christ, and

2. Communion – where we are brought into remembrance of our LORD’s death – broken body and shed blood – which alone redeems us.

3. Feet washing – to symbolize the service of the Christian life (John 13:1-17).

As with all things concerning Christ’s kingdom, it is of the utmost importance that the disciple of Jesus understand what God’s Word says about these topics – so that such never become a mere rote mechanical drudgery and tradition. God is after true worship (John 4:23-24).

Institution of the Lord’s Supper: Remembering Christ’s Death

“And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. 27 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; 28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. 29 But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.” Matthew 26:26-29

“this do in remembrance of me” Luke 22:19

“And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, Take this, and divide it among yourselves: 18 For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come. 19 And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me. 20 Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you. 21 But, behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me is with me on the table. 22 And truly the Son of man goeth, as it was determined: but woe unto that man by whom he is betrayed! 23 And they began to enquire among themselves, which of them it was that should do this thing.” Luke 22:17-23

Note that we are to examine our hearts, something only 11 of the 12 apostles did. Judas did not keep his heart right with the LORD and therefore betrayed him, damning his soul for all eternity. Communion, if we do it as the LORD has prescribed, grants us to keep our hearts pure before the LORD. Judas will not be blessed to “drink of the fruit of the vine” with Jesus and the Father in glory. He rebelled and therefore forfeited the Great Supper of the Lamb, was judged, and so shall we be if “we neglect so great salvation” as did the five foolish virgins who were shut out of Christ’s eternal kingdom after being espoused to Him (Hebrews 2:3; Matthew 25:1-13). Remaining in an intimate, abiding relationship with Christ to the end includes obeying Him in remembering His death that redeemed us to Himself.

Jesus commands us to “Do this” on a regular basis. The divine instruction to “Do this” is all important pertaining to communion that glorifies the LORD.

The Biblical Truth about Communion

When we take communion, we “do shew the Lord’s death till he come.” …

“After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. 26 For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come.” 1 Corinthians 11:25-26

“As often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup” – tells us that this was not to be done repetitiously and become a dead religious ritual but rather perhaps randomly in order to worshipfully remember the death Jesus died on the cross, the blood He shed to redeem us – to purchase us back to the Father, bringing us into His eternal family. There is great danger in making the things of God a stale, rote ritual which Scripture strongly teaches against (Matthew 6:7). Retaining the rich, heartfelt spontaneity of worship is very important to our LORD. Taking communion like the pagan Catholic church, every week without fail, seems to completely negate and disregard the spontaneous worship Jesus intends. Oh and John 6 is NOT even speaking about communion.

“Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out. 32 And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. 33 This he said, signifying what death he should die.” John 12:31-33

In Christ’s perfect sacrifice on the cross, the claims of divine justice were satisfied to redeem mankind. God the Father judged sin on that cross.

“To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.” 2 Corinthians 5:19

“…he by the grace of God should taste death for every man… Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil.” Hebrew 2:9, 14

“For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 8 But God commendeth (displayed, exhibited) his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.” Romans 5:6-10

Biblical communion is a memorial of the sacrificial love of Jesus for us displayed in his crucifixion. Our remembrance of Him in communion is symbolic, not substantive.

QUESTION: Why is our remembrance of Christ’s death so important? What happens to Christianity if we neglect remembering in this way? What happens to us personally when we forget Christ’s death?

One writer notes:

“For many Christians, to remember is an ambiguous mental activity. But in the Bible, a call to remember—especially when tied to a covenant sign or ceremony—is a vibrant, powerful, and participatory concept where we re-calibrate our lives according to what’s being remembered. According to Herman Ridderbos, in his outline of Paul’s theology, ‘It is not merely a subjective recalling to mind, but an active manifestation of the continuing and actual significance of the death of Christ.’ … The preeminent picture of redemption in the Old Testament is the exodus of Israel from Egypt, memorialized in the Passover meal. Every year the Israelites would again participate in this meal to remember who—or whose—they were. It’s not dry history to be learned but dynamic history to be lived. They participate in the meal because they are partakers in the reality of this redemption as Israelites. ‘And this day shall be unto you for a memorial; and ye shall keep it a feast to the LORD throughout your generations; ye shall keep it a feast by an ordinance for ever.’ (Exodus 12:14). … When the Lord’s Supper is served believers experience an affectionate remembrance because the gospel is recalled and reapplied. We remember the grace purchased at Christ’s death is the same grace we need when we come to the table. … Every time we take communion the gospel is proclaimed, and we believe and embrace it again—in other words, we remember. My hope is that Christians come to the Lord’s Table with eagerness and expectancy, believing this is not a dull religious ceremony but a spiritual gospel experience.”

God told His people that they were to remember what He did for them in delivering them by His blood out of Egypt (sin, the world). Remember the blood they were to place in the sign of a cross over their doorposts? In remembrance of this, the LORD set forth an ordinance for them to observe yearly. The Passover ordinance (Exodus 12) seems to be the Old Testament equivalent to New Testament communion (1 Corinthians 11). Unleavened bread of Exodus 12 meaning no sin, hence Paul’s teaching to confess all sin at times of communion.

“And he is the propitiation (atoning sacrifice) for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.” 1 John 2:2

Showing the LORD’s Jesus’ death till He come or in light of His soon return is of ultra importance in the divine economy, for it was there on the altar of that cross that the perfect price was paid for the salvation of mankind. “It is finished (paid in full)“ (John 19:30), means the perfect sacrifice was paid in full by the precious blood of Jesus Christ which could never be matched nor duplicated!

“Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; 19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:” 1 Peter 1:18-19

Of the ordinance of communion, F.B. Meyer writes:

“At Corinth each family or group retained their own provisions, and a great distinction was thus made between rich and poor. This caused much heart-burning and was unworthy of Christians. Note that the Apostle received the words of institution by direct revelation. The Lord’s Supper is intended not only to commemorate the supreme act of Calvary, but to enable us spiritually to incorporate into ourselves the very life and death of Jesus, so that we may truly be crucified with Him and nevertheless live. ‘That I may know Him and the fellowship of His sufferings.’ We are liable to condemnation if we do not recognize the Body of Christ-that is, the Church-the unity of which is disturbed and obscured when there is dissension. If we judge ourselves, we escape the judgment and chastisement of the Almighty.”

“And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. 25 After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. 26 For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come. 27 Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. 28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. 29 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. 30 For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. 31 For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. 32 But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.” 1 Corinthians 11:24-32

QUESTION:

“But, what does it mean to do this ‘unworthily’?”

REPLY:

For one, it would mean that if we think we bring anything but sin to God, we will partake unworthily (Romans 7:18). We must approach Him on the basis of His sheer mercy (Ps 5:7; Titus 3:5-7) and the righteousness and perfect sacrifice of Christ alone.

“Yes it’s very important that we examine ourselves before taking communion because of the importance of what it represents. It’s extremely important that we are not hypocritical in our own hearts. I was talking about this, this morning with Val about the importance of forgiving others the way we’ve been forgiven because it’s easy to judge. But we should start with judging ourselves.” Stephen Michels

A Time to Get our Hearts Right

“Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.” Matthew 5:8

Jesus will return for those who are born again and presently pure in heart (Luke 21:24-26; Ephesians 5:25-27; 1 John 2:28-3:6, etc.).

When Jesus foretold His twelve that one of them would betray Him to death, the eleven began to ask Him if it would be them – which reveals that they didn’t know their own hearts, as is the case with us.

“And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me. 22 And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I?” Matthew 26:21-22

The fact that they asked Jesus “Is it I?” reveals that Christ’s disciples didn’t know their own hearts. Taking the elements in remembering our LORD Jesus Christ’s ultimate sacrifice for our sins on that cross atop Calvary, brings us face to face with the present and true state of our hearts. This is ultra important in that Scripture reveals that we are prone to be deceived about our own state of heart (Proverbs 28:26; Jeremiah 17:9; Matthew 26:21-22).

By the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the apostle Paul writes of the importance of examining and judging our own hearts in preparation to remember our LORD Jesus’ redemption for us – who came to save us FROM our sins and not in our sins (Matthew 1:21; John 1:29; 2 Corinthians 7:1; Titus 2:14). And so all sin should be confessed in preparation.

“Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. 28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. 29 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. 30 For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. 31 For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. 32 But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.” 1 Corinthians 11:27-32

Perhaps it is saying that those who do not repent and confess their sins do not understand why Christ came and gave His body to be broken. The reason was to set apart (sanctify) and deliver His children from all sin (Matthew 1:21; John 1:29; Titus 2:14). So, to drink the cup unworthily or without returning to the LORD (repenting), examining one’s life and confessing all known sins, is to deny or ignore the LORD and the very reason Christ came – “to take away the sin of the world” (John 1:29).

Let’s look at the Life in the Spirit Study Bible on this passage:

“EAT… DRINK… UNWORTHILY. To eat in an unworthy manner is to partake of the LORD’s table in an indifferent, self-centered, careless, and irreverent spirit, without any intention or desire of departing from known sins and of accepting the covenant of grace with all its promises and obligations. One who participates in such an unworthy manner sins terribly against the LORD. He is guilty of re-crucifying Christ and immediately comes under special judgment and retribution (vv. 29-32). Being ‘guilty of the body and blood of the LORD’ means being held responsible for His death.”

God is “Holy, holy, holy” and so being washed of all sin is essential in our relationship with Him. Such requires our regular repentance (returning afresh to Him) and confession of all sin (Isaiah 6:3; Revelation 4:8; 1 John 1:3-2:2, etc.).

Of true communion with CHRIST, David Taylor notes:

“Romans 14:17-18 teaches us that by faith we have access to God which should suffice for the pagan rituals of conjuring: for it is only food and drink, not the Holy Spirit.”

“For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. 18 For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men.” Romans 14:17-18

The Benefits of the Lord’s Supper by JC Ryle

“The Lord’s Supper was ordained for a continual remembrance of the sacrifice of Christ’s death, until He comes again.

“The benefits it confers are spiritual, not physical. Its effects must be looked for in our inward man. It was intended to remind us, by the visible, tangible emblems of bread and wine, that the offering of Christ’s body and blood for us on the cross, is the only atonement for sin, and the life of a believer’s soul. It was meant to help our poor weak faith to closer fellowship with our crucified Savior, and to assist us in spiritually feeding on Christ’s body and blood.

“It is an ordinance for redeemed sinners, and not for unfallen angels. By receiving it we publicly declare our sense of guilt, and need of a Savior – our trust in Jesus, and our love to Him – our desire to live upon Him, and our hope to live with Him. Using it in this spirit, we shall find our repentance deepened, our faith increased, our hope brightened, our love enlarged, our besetting sins weakened and our graces strengthened. It will draw us nearer to Christ.”

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Abiding

Supplying Saints and Sinners with Heavenly Sustenance

HIS TRUTH IS MARCHING ON – THROUGH HIS PEOPLE

“The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it.” Psalms 68:11

THERE is no time to waste – Jesus is coming. We must get the Word of God into the hearts of people, in every way, via any and all communication mediums available to us today. And this is the fulfillment of Matthew 24:14 – “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” Let’s roll saints!

“We are labourers TOGETHER with God.” 1 Corinthians 3:9

The graphic below is for the order I just placed with the publisher for a fresh supply of the ministry books.

This ministry outreach, ministering God’s Word to thousands daily, is a vehicle for our LORD’s Word. What’s needed is more disciples who will monthly support it, who will put fuel in the tank in order to propel it forward to reach more and more people with the Gospel of our LORD Jesus. Will you answer that call?

“But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. 7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: 9 (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever. 10 Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) 11 Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.” 2 Corinthians 9:6-11

Does it make sense to put a percentage of our earnings into a 401K (or other earthly investment) and not force feed a portion off the top, with a cheerful heart to Christ’s eternal kingdom work? (Read Proverbs 3:9-10; 2 Corinthians 9:6-11)

“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.” Matthew 6:19-21

It has been wisely concluded from what Jesus taught, that:

“The way we spend our money is a direct reflection of the priorities of our hearts.”

Is God truly first in your life? (Proverbs 3:9-10; Matthew 6:33, etc.).

There are no rich men, there is no religious or otherwise organization supporting this Gospel ministry outreach. Just regular people who know and love Jesus and the whole counsel of His truth and are growing in His grace daily with the other members of His remnant body (2 Peter 1:2; 3:18). There are monthly bills that only get paid by having the actual, the literal money in the account. In turn God turns that giving of earthly money to HIS work into heavenly treasure for all who give (Luke 16:9-11; Acts 20:35). These expenses are incurred by pushing the Word of God to the hearts and minds of the people and available to be paid and that’s God’s opportunity placed in YOUR lap to supply. In response, what is the LORD going to do? (Matthew 6:19-21; 2 Corinthians 9:6-11; Philippians 4:17, etc.)

“And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations. 10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. 11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?” Luke 16:9-11

When Jesus says here to “Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness …,” what does He mean? This writer would like to encourage the reader to delve into this passage, to pray that the LORD will open the eyes of your understanding concerning what He seeks to communicate to your heart.

Of this passage, the Believer’s Bible Commentary notes:

“16:9 We should make friends for ourselves by means of unrighteous mammon. That is, we should use money and other material things in such a way as to win souls for Christ and thus form friendships that will endure throughout eternity. Pierson stated it clearly:

‘Money can be used to buy Bibles, books, tracts and thus, indirectly, the souls of men. Thus what was material and temporal becomes immortal, becomes non-material, spiritual and eternal. Here is a man who has 100. He may spend it all on a banquet or an evening party, in which case the next day there is nothing to show for it. On the other hand, he invests in Bibles … It buys … copies of the Word of God. These he judiciously sows as seed of the kingdom, and that seed springs up into a harvest, not of Bibles but of souls. Out of the unrighteous, he has made immortal friends, who when he fails, receive him into everlasting habitations.’

This then is the teaching of our Lord. By the wise investment of material possessions, we can have part in the eternal blessing of men and women. We can make sure that when we arrive at the gates of heaven, there will be a welcoming committee of those who were saved through our sacrificial giving and prayers. These people will thank us saying, ‘It was you who invited me here.’”

“They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. 6 He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed (God’s Word), shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves (eternal harvest, reward) with him.” Psalms 126:5-6

Christ’s Kingdom and His Gift to us to Participate, is Practical

Will you choose to part with temporal money to reap eternal, unending, irrevocable benefits?

An order has been placed for 20 more of the ministry books from the publisher ($125). The plan is to order this supply monthly for the next 3 months – and hand them out, person-to-person. Face-to-face, person-to-person gifting people on a daily basis, usually after they’ve received ministry, is a super-charged transfer of heavenly blessing (Philippians 1:19). As you know if you’ve read any of the ministry’s books, they are Christ-centered, Scripture-rich original Gospel volumes. Holy Scripture is on each page and put in bold print. In the rear of each book is the way to make peace with God. It leads them right to Jesus via and beginning with the biblical truth that we have “all sinned” against our God (Romans 3).

If you wish, feel free to help fund this part of the ministry exploits currently transpiring to get God’s Word in the hearts of more and more people.

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

The glorious Gospel of our LORD Jesus is communicated, disseminated, and received via His Word.

“But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb, and called me by his GRACE, 16 To reveal his Son in me, that I might PREACH him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood:” Galatians 1:15-16

As we can all witness, there are so many hungry souls wandering about in this fallen world who desire to receive the Word of God. The personal touch, contact is powerful – as it was when our LORD directed beloved Philip to minister to the Ethiopian eunuch whom our LORD consequently saves (Acts 8:26-40). And some, many and actually most of the people being reached are our beloved brethren who are looking for sustenance. I meet them each and every week. They are hungering and thirsting after His righteousness. Let’s be there for them saints.

Perhaps this can spread to where we are able to drop ship a supply books to some of the ministries this outreach supplies and has for years. If each of us does our simple part, great blessings will result.

Lately I’ve been handing out lots of the Moments with Our Master devotional books. People love them……. This week I had a lengthy breakfast meeting with a rich young ruler type young man. He articulated that all of his earthly success has left him empty in this world. It was a Scripture-rich time. Garrett gladly received a copy of the Moments devotional book and said “Let’s do this again.” His heart was filled with joy during and after that fellowship. He told me that in the past, as he walked with the LORD daily, his life was so much better. With a large smile he said “Man, I’d just walk down the street like I was floating 2 feet off the ground, filled with the joy and love of Jesus, sharing it with others.” Garrett texted me back the next morning with this:

“Appreciate you giving me that book. It’s convenient to use in the mornings.” Garrett

So, as we can witness, this Scripture-rich devotional book is the launching place for this man to seek and walk with the LORD. As usual, all of the ministry’s materials constantly exhort the readers/listeners to get into God’s Word daily for themselves (2 Timothy 2:15).

I know you’ll agree that the Garrett’s of our world matter to our LORD and we are the very “ambassadors” Christ has sent to bless them (2 Corinthians 5:20)! We are the delivery personnel of Heaven – handing out to people the treasure of Christ!

Just a few days ago, I gave 1 copy each to a young couple who I’ve become friends with at the gym (18 years old each). They were happy to receive this gift. First, as I like to do, I asked them if they like to read. One of them said they were currently “searching for something to read.” As usual when giving them the books, I opened one copy of the books and showed them that “there’s one devotional for each day of the year, all on one page. It begins with a Scripture, a few words, and a prayer at the end.” This way they see just how simple it is – and gives them a track to run on, a foundation to build their day upon. EVERY searching person is looking for this very thing. Their lives are meaningless, empty, and lacking the presence of the LORD. This is where we come in saints. As usual, I like to share with them that “This is a great way to begin the day.”

After qualifying the situation by asking people “Do you like to read?” I then ask them if I can give them a book and the answer is always a “Yes.” I then go fetch a book and gift them with it.

The season must now end where the Great Commission work of our LORD is shorted. Let’s fuel up and fill the Gospel war chest saints. It’s right under out noses – as God has placed it there! Let us each do our part (John 4:36; 1 Samuel 30:24).

Anyone who wishes to jump in and begin underwriting the kingdom opportunity cost for this is welcome.

Earthly expenses to do ministry, the most important and only eternal work in the earth, is the kingdom opportunity lying right in front of each of us (Matthew 6:19-21).

“May God empower us through the Holy Ghost to bring not a few guests to the wedding banquet; as we walk in the Spirit with the love of Christ flowing in and through our daily lives, and as we sow in tears; knowing that we shall reap with joy: because He that promised is faithful. To God be the glory in Jesus Name, Amen.” Jon Crane

Let’s review:

“They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. 6 He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” Psalms 125:5-6

YOU cannot do it. I certainly can’t do anything without Christ.

“I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” John 15:5

Surrender, right? Yes.

Jesus Christ is LORD. He’s our coming King.

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LIE OF THE AGES: From the Garden to Glory [podcast]

Excerpt from the book Lie of the Ages

The First Lie and the Fall of Man

“Now the serpent was more subtle than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.” ~ Genesis 3:1-5

Have you ever wondered what the first lie ever told was? Who told it? Why was it told? What was the result of it? Can the fruit be seen and felt today? Can its effects be traced throughout history and even into the future?

According to the Genesis account, the Garden of Eden was the sanctuary of the Most High, where He communed with the first man and woman He had made in His very own image. The Garden was a sinless, guiltless sanctuary of unimaginable relational bliss between the LORD Almighty and the man and woman. The Garden of Eden was the place of pure truth and love—a place where lies were not even suspected.

Enter Satan.

Enter the lie.

Enter the seduction.

Enter no fear of God.

Enter stolen restraint.

Enter sin.

Enter the fall of man.

Enter alienation from the Creator.

Garden Scene—The First Lie

Do you think this first lie may hold some insight into the work of Satan and his war against God and His treasured people today?

“And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die…(Now here’s what the woman said:) But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. (Now here’s what Satan said:) And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die.” ~ Genesis 2:16-17; 3:3-4

In the book of origins (Genesis) where every major biblical doctrine is rooted (has its beginning), there can be found the keys and answers to life. Mankind’s Maker, his beginning, his ultimate enemy, temptation, sin, the resulting fall, and the redemption of man are revealed in the first chapters of this all-important first book of the Holy Bible.

Perhaps there could be no greater occupation than for the student of Scripture to undertake, pour over, pray over, and dismantle the first three chapters of the book of Genesis. In this endeavor, he will gain insight into the origins and purpose of creation, pitfalls facing mankind, divine restoration, and the keys to living a victorious life in harmony with his Creator.

Sin entered the human experience through the temptation and fall of the first man (Rom. 5). By this the enemy gained a foothold and has warred with that sole creation made in the image of the Maker Himself. But it is sin that is man’s problem, not circumstance or self-esteem nor any other diagnosis. “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” (See Jer. 17:9.)

Someone has wisely stated: “The heart of the human problem is the problem of the human heart.”

From the very beginning, Satan has tempted man to believe that breaking the commandment of His Maker was not to be feared or avoided and could not harm him. The temptation for man is if he is going to determine truth on his own terms and how it fits his own lifestyle, or repent and humbly accept and obey what God says.

Cain was a religionist. He refused relationship with the LORD because he chose to do things his own way instead of God’s (Gen. 4:1-7). In his pride, Cain wanted to make up his own rules – he was lawless. Religion is where men have created a god in their own image and follow those teachings which render obedience to that false god. The most deceptive and evil form of religion is that which is close to the truth and uses Bible Scriptures out of context to make up that doctrine which circumvents obedience to the plain truth of God. (See Jesus rebuke the Pharisees in Matt. 23.)

Who are we going to believe and trust? Whose report will you believe? Since the LORD and the devil stated something in direct opposition to each other, we know that one of them is a liar. As He gave the first man and woman the option, so the LORD gives us the choice to trust and obey Him or not to obey Him. Each of us will decide who it is that is going to be a liar in our hearts—the Almighty, or Satan.

God said (Gen. 2:17): “But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE.”

Satan said (Gen. 3:4): “And the serpent said unto the woman, YE SHALL NOT SURELY DIE.”

The lie of the ages began in the very cradle of creation. The aim of the enemy of all souls was the first man and woman who were uniquely created in the image of the One who made all things. Adam and Eve were the subjects of Satan’s deadly lie—the first lie ever told. Apparently, this cunning enemy understood that if he could cause the man and woman to take things into their own hands and violate the instruction of their Maker, they would be ushered out of His Garden (presence) and forfeit their place with Him.

Mankind’s enemy led him to believe that he could violate the instruction of his holy Maker and still remain within His approval. Like Adam and Eve, it is readily observed that men naturally internalize this philosophy as “I can sin with no fear of consequences.” Is it possible that this lie is still leading men and women to believe that they “shall not surely die” if they live in direct opposition to the LORD?

Concerning this most insidious and destructive lie of the serpent, the Life in the Spirit Study Bible states:

“‘YE SHALL NOT SURELY DIE’…The first lie proposed by Satan was a form of antinomianism (lawlessness), denying the judgment of death for sin and apostasy. One of the basic sins of humankind is unbelief in God’s word. It is believing that somehow God does not really mean what He says about salvation, righteousness, sin, judgment, and death. Satan’s most persistent lie is that unrepentant, deliberate sin and rebellion against God will not necessarily bring separation from God and eternal condemnation.”

As he did with the first man and woman, the adversary tells us “Ye shall not surely die” (Gen. 3:4).

Escaping the judgment of a holy God has long been the vain imagination of depraved men, fueled by the enemy of all righteousness who has come “to steal, and to kill, and to destroy” (Jn. 10:10).

“Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.” ~ Ecclesiastes 8:11

“Wherefore doth the wicked contemn God? he hath said in his heart, Thou wilt not require it.” ~ Psalms 10:13

Question: “Wherefore doth the wicked contemn God?

Answer: “He hath said in his heart, Thou wilt not require it.”

The hearts of those who are not in fellowship with the LORD say “The LORD will not ‘require it’ of me. He will not bring me into accountability for my life in this world. After all, He has not done anything to me for my wrongdoing thus far. I am okay in my sins; God will just overlook them.”

Lucifer’s lure capitalizes on the sinful nature of men, preying upon his desire to be his own god, controlling his own destiny. Somehow, according to this revelation and others, it is within man’s makeup to believe that because his Creator is not presently executing tangible judgment for his sin, he believes that God is not going to judge him at all. So, unregenerate man goes on sinning with reckless abandon, not realizing that that Great and Terrible Day of Judgment lies just ahead.

The first man and woman bought into the first lie that claims there is no consequence for violating the command of the one true God. Such self-deception is no new thing. Since the first man and woman, people have sought to define right and wrong on their own terms instead of simply acknowledging what the LORD says. As the first couple found out, it is a losing endeavor to determine truth by how it fits one’s lifestyle instead of by God’s non-negotiable counsel given us in His Word (Jn. 17:17; Rom. 3:3-4; 2 Tim. 3:16). Defining truth on one’s own terms is buying into the lie of the ages presented to every man by the evil one who “walketh about seeking whom he may devour” (1 Pet. 5:8).

When men seek to redefine truth on their own terms, they unwittingly create a god in their own image—one who accepts them in their sins with no judgment. They then migrate to pastors and teachers who will tickle their itching ears with smooth messages void of the full-counsel revelation of Holy Scripture (Jer. 5:30-31; 2 Tim. 4:2-4).

After Adam and Eve, it was their son Cain who sought to make up his own way to God on his own terms. He failed. To Cain and to all who seek through religion, whether self-styled or organized, the Almighty would ask: “If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door” (Gen. 4:7).

The LORD says to Cain “If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted?” This simply means “If you will do things the way I prescribed, will I not fully accept you as I did your brother Abel?” Cain hardened his heart and refused to do things God’s way by offering the type of sacrifice God requires. Due to his own choice to rebel against the Most High he became so filled with the enemy that he killed his own brother (Gen. 4).

This is a classic example of how the enemy led this man Cain to believe that he could make up his own rules, violating the holy Creator and still escape His just judgment. Like Cain, millions of faithful religionists today have a mere formula of godliness while denying the power of a truly surrendered life to the one true God who sent His only begotten Son as the only sacrifice for the sins of men (2 Timothy 3:5).

When he was able to successfully persuade the first man to violate the command of the LORD, Satan gained access to authority over the man by the sin of the man (Isaiah 59:1-2; Ephesians 4:27; James 4:7). Jesus re-gained that authority for His highest and prized creation and all those who come into relationship with Him experience the abundant blessings that come along with being saved by His precious blood (Jn. 10:10; Rom. 5:17; 1 Pet. 1:18-19).

“For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)” Romans 5:17

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” ~ John 3:16-17

PRAYER: Father in Heaven, please unite my heart to fear Thy name and keep it from falling prey to this same lie that led to Adam and Eve’s fall. Quicken my heart in the fear of the LORD. Please teach me that there are many harsh consequences for disobeying You, by not doing what You say, by sinning against You. Convict my heart of sin, and I beg You to make my conscience extremely sensitive to Your conviction and leading. Change my heart, O LORD. Grant me a heart of flesh that delights to live in Your presence and do Your perfect will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Abiding

“They that were Scattered Abroad went every where Preaching the Word” [podcast]

When persecution hit Jerusalem where the body of Christ was dwelling….

“Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.” Acts 8:4

“Persecution hit Jerusalem in a few significant periods: first, in the years following Jesus’s death, when the early Christian church was persecuted by Jewish authorities led by Saul (Acts 8:1-3).”

Remember, God allowed great persecution in Jerusalem in order to get His people to scatter to the ends of the earth.

“Jesus promised his disciples three things: that they would be completely fearless, absurdly happy, and in constant trouble.” – GK Chesterton

“And he said unto them, GO YE INTO ALL THE WORLD, and preach the gospel to every creature.” Mark 16:15

This was right after the beloved deacon, servant of the LORD Stephen was murdered. See Acts 7:51-8:4.

Believer’s Bible Commentary

Acts 8:1

“A new era begins with the words, “At that time.” Stephen’s death seemed to trigger a widespread assault against the church. Believers were scattered throughout … Judea and Samaria.

The Lord had instructed His followers to begin their witness in Jerusalem, but then to branch out to Judea, Samaria, and the end of the earth. Up to this time their witness had been confined entirely to Jerusalem. Perhaps they had been timid about branching out. Now they are forced to do it by persecution.

From the human standpoint, it was a dark day for the believers. The life of a member of their fellowship had been laid down. They themselves were being chased like rabbits. But from the divine standpoint, it was not dark at all. A grain of wheat had been planted in the ground, and much fruit would inevitably result. The winds of affliction were scattering the seeds of the gospel to distant places, and who could estimate the extent of the harvest?”

In light of this biblical revelation, do we really think the LORD wouldn’t be allowing persecution to hit America in order to scatter His people across His earth in order to reach the billions who are unreached? The answer is obvious.

“Acts 8:4
They that were scattered – went every where preaching – Thus the very means devised by Satan to destroy the Church became the very instruments of its diffusion and establishment. What are counsel, or might, or cunning, or rage, or malice, against the Lord, whether they are excited by men or devils!” Adam Clarke

Of this passage, the Believer’s Bible Commentary notes the following:

“8:4-8 The dispersal of the Christians did not silence their testimony. Everywhere they went they carried the good news of salvation. Philip, the “deacon” of chapter six, headed north to the city of Samaria. He not only proclaimed Christ but performed many miracles. Unclean spirits were driven out and the paralyzed and lame were healed. The people gave heed to the gospel, and, as might be expected, great joy resulted.
The primitive church obeyed the explicit commands of Jesus Christ:
It went out as Christ had gone (Jhn_20:21; cf. Act_8:1-4).
It sold its goods and gave to the poor (Luk_12:33; Luk_18:22; cf. Act_2:45; Act_4:34).
It left father, mother, houses, and lands to go everywhere preaching the Word (Mat_10:37; cf. Act_8:1-4).
It made disciples and taught them to work and obey (Mat_28:18-19; cf. 1Th_1:6).
It took up its cross and followed Christ (Acts 4; 1 Thess. 2).
It rejoiced in tribulation and persecution (Mat_5:11-12; cf. Acts 16; 1Th_1:6-8).
It left the dead to bury their dead and went and preached the gospel (Luk_9:59-60).
It shook the dust from off its feet and moved on when men refused to hear (Luk_9:5; cf. Act_13:51).
It healed, exorcised, raised the dead, and bore lasting fruit (Mrk_16:18; Acts 3-16).”

“The Communication of thy faith”

“That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. 7 For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.” Philemon 6-7

We are merely passing through saints. This is not our home.

“Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;” 1 Peter 2:11

“New Creatures” …. given by God the “ministry of reconciliation” …. Christ’s “Ambassadors”

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:17-20

The body of Christ, each member, does our part in Christ’s Great Commission.

“WE are labourers TOGETHER with God.” 1 Corinthians 3:9

“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. 14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!” Romans 10:13-15

“Romans 10:14-15: ‘How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!’ The LORD saved me because someone preached the gospel to me! And I instantly knew that was what was missing in my life! How would I have known if I had not heard?” Karen Cochran

The body of Christ alone bears the Good News…. that in light of each of us being lost souls, sinners…. God sent His only begotten to die, be buried, and raised again from the dead for our justification! See Romans 4:25; 5:6-8, etc.

You are a bearer of this Good News beloved of God. No one else can be—except those who are HIS. With the love, joy, and peace of Jesus emanating from your heart, take off that lampshade and unleash that beautiful smile and let the world around you know of Christ’s love for them! He proved this love by dying on that cross for them! (John 15:13)

“The love of Christ constraineth (compels) us.” 2 Corinthians 5:14

Evangelism – God’s way!

The 3 Ways God’s People can Participate in Christ’s Great Commission

1. Praying (Matthew 9:35-38).
2. Witnessing, sowing and communicating the Word (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 8:11).
3. Supporting, supplying those of God’s people who are doing His Great Commission, preaching the Word (2 Corinthians 9:6-11; Philippians 2:25; 4:16-20).

The writing is on the wall for the wicked false professors.

IF you aren’t participating in the Great Commission, you are a lost soul/counterfeit.

In light of the fact that Jesus gave us His Great Commission command, what did Jesus tell us in Matthew 7:21? What was His warning to us in light of judgment to come?

“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 7:21

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