FishHawk Droppings

Bittersweet Refinements: A Warning Of Sorts

2009-10-28T17:27:00.002-05:00

A Warning Of Sorts

And the voice which I heard from heaven, I heard again speaking with me, and saying, “Go, take the book which is open in the hand of the angel who stands on the sea and on the land.” And I went to the angel, telling him to give me the little book. And he said to me, “Take it, and eat it; and it will make your stomach bitter, but in your mouth it will be sweet as honey.” And I took the book out of the angel’s hand and ate it, and it was in my mouth sweet as honey; and when I had eaten it, my stomach was made bitter. And they said to me, “You must prophesy again concerning many peoples and nations and tongues and kings.” [Revelation 10:8-11 NAS]

Be forewarned that there is much about what I have been given to say that the more devoutly religious will undoubtedly find quite bitter. For it is meant to help refine what was started with the Reformation, and it calls into question many of the things that far too many want to have great faith in.

Nonetheless, be assured that there is also much about what I have been given to say that those who hunger for something more will find oh so very sweet. For it is also meant to help clear up much of the confusion that now exists concerning our Heavenly Father and the righteousness of all of His most awesome ways, and it provides answers to many questions, especially in regards to what this world and our existence is really all about.

In other words, this is meant to help clear away much of the “stuff” that makes it impossible to truly have a very close and personal relationship with our Heavenly Father. For what He actually says is absolutely true about Himself and the righteousness of all of His most awesome ways is quite contrary to what far too many have been led to believe.

No, this is not meant for everyone at this time. For it all depends upon what our Heavenly Father wants to accomplish in and through someone that determines when, and to what extent, He will allow and enable them to enter into His absolute Truth.

It is meant for a great many more than will be willing to accept it, however. For there is a big difference between knowing about someone and actually knowing them, and the absolute truth of the matter truly is that most who openly profess to know our Heavenly Father well merely have a semblance of knowledge about Him.

Yes, it may all be just some more incoherent ranting and raving from another self-anointed apostle of Christ Jesus. For similar things have been said by others who will ultimately come to nothing.

On the other hand, does this not present you with a unique opportunity to serve even if that is true? For how can anyone honestly believe that they are being guided by the love of God if they could not care less about the spiritual welfare of someone so obviously deceived?

“And to the angel of the church in Laodicea write: The Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God, says this: I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I would that you were cold or hot. So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth. Because you say, “I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have need of nothing,” and you do not know that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked, I advise you to buy from Me gold refined by fire, that you may become rich, and white garments, that you may clothe yourself, and that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and eye salve to anoint your eyes, that you may see. Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline; be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him, and will dine with him, and he with Me. He who overcomes, I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” [Revelation 3:14-22 NAS]

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter I

2009-10-28T17:19:00.004-05:00

Chapter I

In The Beginning

IN THE beginning God created the heavens and the earth. [Genesis 1:1 NIV]

No, it is not that there is a whole lot of confusion in the Christian community about where everything has come from. For aside from there being a few debates on just how He actually did certain things, there is little disagreement over our Heavenly Father truly being the Creator of all that exists apart from Himself[1].

It is a different story in regards to what happened in the days soon after He placed Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, however. For almost all of the doctrines of almost all of the major Christian denominations are based (in one way or another) upon the premise that our Heavenly Father’s great plan went terribly awry in paradise—especially in regards to sin entering into this world[2].

No, there are not many sermons to be found on the subject. That is, at least not expressed in as many words.

Nonetheless, what is implied should be all too painfully clear to those who have been given ears to hear[3]. For it has been widely taught that it is the result of sin entering into this world that much of what has happened down through the ages was never meant to be[4].

Shamefully, this even tarnishes the glory of the sacrifice that our Heavenly Father made for us. For if sin was never meant to enter into this world, the paying of the price in full that was required for our sins was just the partial righting of what had gone wrong in the Garden of Eden instead of something that He had planned on doing since long before He created us[5]! For there would have not been any price to pay if sin had of never entered into this world[6].

Yes, it is good that our Creator would want to clean up His own mess. That is, if there was one to clean up, of course[7].

On the other hand, there is another little matter to consider. For if it was possible for things to go so very wrong before—who is to say that it could not happen again?

Subsequently, if it is possible for things to go wrong again—just how secure can eternity really be for any of us[8]? So, I would think that we would desperately want to believe everything truly has been in accordance to the plan that our Heavenly Father set into motion long before He created us[9].

Of course, we could just depend on ourselves to make the difference—right? For it is written: This is what the LORD says: "Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who depends on flesh for his strength and whose heart turns away from the LORD. He will be like a bush in the wastelands; he will not see prosperity when it comes. He will dwell in the parched places of the desert, in a salt land where no one lives. But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit." The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? "I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve." [Jeremiah 17:5-10 NIV]

{1}Colossians 1:16; {2}Genesis 3:1-19; {3}John 6:63-65; {4}2 Timothy 4:2-4; {5}Revelation 13:8; {6}Romans 6:23; {7}Job 34:10-15; {8}Numbers 11:23; {9}Romans 11:32-36.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter II

2009-10-28T17:13:00.003-05:00

Chapter II

Introductions Are In Order

“Remember this, fix it in mind, take it to heart, you rebels. Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me. I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say: My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please. From the east I summon a bird of prey; from a far-off land, a man to fulfill my purpose. What I have said, that will I bring about; what I have planned, that will I do. Listen to me, you stubborn-hearted, you who are far from righteousness. I am bringing my righteousness near, it is not far away; and my salvation will not be delayed. I will grant salvation to Zion, my splendor to Israel.” [Isaiah 46:8-13 NIV]

Several years ago, our Heavenly Father spoke to me in an audible voice[1]. He said, “Introduce Me[2].”

Oh yes, introductions are most certainly in order[3]. For our Heavenly Father truly is the Lord God Almighty[4], who is all-powerful (Omnipotent)[5], all-knowing (Omniscient)[6], always-present (Omnipresent)[7] and perfect in all of His most awesome ways (Holy and Righteous)[8].

Are not the contradictions with the way He has been so often portrayed obvious? For with our Heavenly Father truly being all-powerful, no one could ever do anything without Him allowing and enabling them to[9]. Therefore, how could Adam and Eve have eaten of the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden without Him letting them?

As if that was not enough, with Him truly being all-knowing, He would know all about everything that anyone would ever want to do long before they did[10]. Therefore, He would have known all about Satan wanting to tempt to Eve to eat of the forbidden fruit long before the insidious thought ever crossed his mind.

Then there is the reality of Him actually being everywhere—all of the time[11]. Therefore, He was actually there when it all happened.

Lastly, there is the part about Him truly being perfect in all of His most awesome ways[12], which brings us to the greatest contradiction of them all. For He could not possibly be perfect in all of His most awesome ways if things really did go so terribly wrong in the beginning.

Yes, it has been widely taught that it is because of their freewill that prevented our Heavenly Father from interfering with the choice that Adam and Eve made, but was it not Him who gave them their freewill in the first place? So, was this another mistake that He made?

{1}Job 33:14-18; {2}2 Corinthians 5:20; {3}Colossians 2:2-4; {4}Exodus 6:2-3; {5}Psalms 33:6-11; {6}Psalms 94:11; {7}Psalms 139:7-12; {8}Psalms 18:30-31; {9}Job 12:13-25; {10}Isaiah 46:10; {11}Matthew 28:18-20; {12}Deuteronomy 32:4.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter III

2009-10-28T17:09:00.003-05:00

Chapter III

A Term Of Endearment

For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.

[Romans 8:15-16 NIV]

Before proceeding any further, please let me explain that when I make some reference to our Heavenly Father, I am referring to not only the Lord God Almighty, but to His only begotten Son[1], who truly is the Lord Jesus Christ[2], and His Holy Spirit[3], as well. For I do not want to add to the confusion myself.

Yes, I have been made well aware of the fact that they are three distinct individuals. Well, at least to the extent that I have been allowed and enabled to understand such[4], but the absolute truth of the matter truly is that our Heavenly Father is also One[5] and the Same[6] with His only begotten Son and His Holy Spirit.

No, I cannot explain how that is possible—certainly not physiological terms. I just know that it is indeed true through the witness of His Holy Spirit[7], and it is because of how much more intimate it is to me to refer to Him and Christ Jesus as also being my Heavenly Father that I do so.

More importantly, this is something that our Heavenly Father wants. For we were created to have a very close and personal relationship with Him[8], and rigid formalities get in the way of this, even when they are well intended[9].

Of course, there is something far more serious that gets in the way of us wanting to truly have a very close and personal relationship with our Heavenly Father—instead of just with His only begotten Son. For it has been widely taught that Christ Jesus stands between us and the wrath of the Lord God Almighty[10].

No, this is not to deny that[11], but whole truth of the matter is that Christ Jesus IS the Lord God Almighty[12]! Furthermore, it is written: And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: "For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. [Romans 8:28-39 NIV]

Tragically, our Heavenly Father’s Holy Spirit is generally left out of the equation. For He is usually presented as being nothing more than merely a helper to us by those who do openly recognize His existence, but He is never considered as truly being on the same level as Christ Jesus and the Lord God Almighty by most.

Yes, it is indeed a very great tragedy. In fact, it will spell the eternal doom for far too many[13]. For it is written: “He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters. And so I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come.” [Matthew 12:30-32 NIV]

It is to miss the point of truly having a very close and personal relationship with Him to think in terms of punishment, however. For it is written: We have come to know and have believed the love which God has for us God is love, and the one who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. By this, love is perfected with us, so that we may have confidence in the day of judgment; because as He is, so also are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love. We love, because He first loved us. [1 John 4:16-19 NAS]

{1}John 1:14-18; {2}Matthew 3:13-17; {3}1 John 5:8; {4}John 14:20; {5}Deuteronomy 6:4; {6}Genesis 1:26; {7}John 16:13; {8}Matthew 11:28-30; {9}1 Peter 5:7; {10}Romans 1:18; {11}Isaiah 53:1-12; {12}John 10:30; {13}Matthew 12:36-37.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter IV

2009-10-28T17:04:00.002-05:00

Chapter IV

A Matter Of Image

Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock; over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. [Genesis 1:26-27 NIV]

It is, above all else, because of Adam and Eve being created by our Heavenly Father that makes Him ultimately responsible for their actions. For it would be different if He was just a superior being that came upon them after they reached sentience, and took it upon Himself to show them and their descendants how to reach a higher plane of existence.

Many in the Christian community would argue that I have missed a critical point about their creation that changes everything. For it is because of them being created IN HIS IMAGE that they are fully responsible for their own actions.

Methinks that they have missed a point or two themselves. For a long, hard look in a mirror should serve as sufficient proof in and of itself that the image that we were all created in is but a poor reflection of our Heavenly Father’s glory[1]. For who from amongst us in the history of our existence could have ever honestly said that they were all-powerful, or all-knowing, or always-present—let alone perfect in all of their own most awesome ways[2]?

The counter to that is that it was not until after they had sinned that their image became tarnished, and there appears to be Biblical evidence to support this. For it is true that our Heavenly Father considered everything that He had created in the beginning as being VERY GOOD[3], and in Mark 10: 18 it is made abundantly clear that only God is good. For it is written: And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good except God alone.” [Mark 10:18 NAS]

However, if Adam and Eve had of been created as good as our Heavenly Father truly is, they would not have eaten of the forbidden fruit—now, would they? For our Heavenly Father is not tempted by sin[4]!

On a related note, far too many have been led to believe just the opposite of that. For it has been widely taught (in one way or another) that Christ Jesus was not so unlike we naturally are when He walked upon the face of this world in the flesh[5].

Much of this is based upon a misunderstanding of such passages as Hebrews 2:9-18. For it is written: But we do see Him who was made for a little while lower than the angels, namely, Jesus, because of the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, so that by the grace of God He might taste death for everyone. For it was fitting for Him, for whom are all things, and through whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to perfect the author of their salvation through sufferings. For both He who sanctifies and those who are sanctified are all from one Father; for which reason He is not ashamed to call them brethren, saying, “I WILL PROCLAIM YOUR NAME TO MY BRETHREN, IN THE MIDST OF THE CONGREGATION I WILL SING YOUR PRAISE.” And again, “I WILL PUT MY TRUST IN HIM.” And again, “BEHOLD, I AND THE CHILDREN WHOM GOD HAS GIVEN ME.” Therefore, since the children share in flesh and blood, He Himself likewise also partook of the same, that through death He might render powerless him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and might free those who through fear of death were subject to slavery all their lives. For assuredly He does not give help to angels, but He gives help to the descendant of Abraham. Therefore, He had to be made like His brethren in all things, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For since He Himself was tempted in that which He has suffered, He is able to come to the aid of those who are tempted. [Hebrews 2:9-18 NAS]

Yes, that does make it sound like Christ Jesus was just like we naturally are before His resurrection[6], but who from amongst can honestly say that we are without sin? For it is written: This is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth; but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar and His word is not in us. [1 John 1:5-10 NAS]

Therefore, how can it be believed that Christ Jesus was not so unlike we naturally are? For He was without sin[7]!

{1}1 Corinthians 13:11-12; {2}Psalms 14:1-3; {3}Genesis 1:31; {4}James 1:13; {5}John 1:14; {6}Luke 24:1-8; {7}2 Corinthians 5:18.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter V

2009-10-28T16:59:00.001-05:00

Chapter V

The Fall

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. [Romans 3:23 NAS]

According to religious traditions, Adam and Eve fell from our Heavenly Father’s grace when they sinned in the Garden of Eden, and it is as a result of this that we are all physically born into a fallen state of grace. Hence, the fall of mankind.

In theological terms, the fall of mankind is called the Doctrine of Original Sin. For it is written: Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned. [Romans 5:12 KJV]

Be assured that our Heavenly Father calls the Doctrine of Original Sin an abomination. That is, at least in regards to the way it is presented[1]. For He has made it quite clear that there is a difference between falling short of His glory and falling from His grace[2].

No, it cannot be denied that there were immediate consequences for Adam’s sin. For it is written: To the woman he said, “I will greatly increase your pains in childbearing; with pain you will give birth to children. Your desire will be for your husband, and he will rule over you.” To Adam, he said, “Because you listened to your wife and ate from the tree about which I commanded you, ‘You must not eat of it,’ “Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat of it all the days of your life. It will produce thorns and thistles for you, and you will eat the plants of the field. By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground, since from it you were taken; for dust you are and to dust you will return.” [Genesis 3:16-19 NIV]

Neither can it be denied that there are consequences to our own sins—even when there appears to be none. For it is written: For he who does wrong will receive the consequence of the wrong, which he has done, and that without partiality. [Colossians 3:25 NAS]

Nonetheless, has it not been made abundantly clear that Adam and Eve were still under His grace? For it is written: The Lord God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them. [Genesis 3:21 NIV]

Moreover, has it not been made abundantly clear that we are all under His grace? For it is written: For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. [Ephesians 2:8-10 NAS]

No, this is not about Christian Universalism, which basically teaches that all will eventually be saved from eternal damnation. For the grace that can be found in Christ Jesus must be actually accepted by each individual[3], but who can do that without the grace of our Heavenly Father in the first place[4]?

Yes, Romans 5:12 needs to be addressed before we move along. For instead of it saying that it is through the sin of Adam in the Garden of Eden[5] that all are automatically subject to the penalty for that sin, which is eternal spiritual death[6], it is saying that eternal spiritual death first entered into this world through his sin, which was the original one.

{1}Jeremiah 5:21-31; {2}Romans 5:6-11; {3}John 3:16; {4}John 6:44-45; {5}Genesis 2:16-17; {6}Romans 6:23.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter VI

2009-10-28T16:55:00.004-05:00

Chapter VI

Hide...

Truly you are a God who hides himself, O God and Savior of Israel.

[Isaiah 45:15 NIV]

It is also in accordance to religious traditions that our Heavenly Father had to remove Himself from this world after sin entered into it. The premise for this is that He is too holy and righteous to be in the presence of sin.

Yes, that naturally makes a whole lot of sense. For who from amongst us does not really mind being around someone who almost always does what is absolutely disgusting to them if they do not have to for some reason or another?

There is even Scripture that appears support this[1]. For it is written: The Lord is far from the wicked but he hears the prayer of the righteous. [Proverbs 15:29 NIV]

Along with: Surely the arm of the LORD is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear. But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear. [Isaiah 59:1-2 NIV]

As well as: Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called "uncircumcised" by those who call themselves "the circumcision" (that done in the body by the hands of men)—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. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ. [Ephesians 2:11-13 NIV]

On the other hand, in order for it to be true that our Heavenly Father had to remove Himself from this world after sin entering into it, then it could not be true that He is always-present. So, could it not be that He has been merely partially hiding Himself from our sight[2]? For it is written: Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,” even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you. [Psalms 139:7-12 NIV]

Besides, if it was possible for Satan to enter into our Heavenly Father’s very presence, even while He sat upon His throne in His Kingdom of Heaven, how could it be impossible for Him to be in the presence of sin? For who could be more of an abomination in His sight than the devil himself[3]?

If you are not familiar with the account, check this out: One day the angels came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan also came with them. The Lord said to Satan, “Where have you come from?” Satan answered the Lord, “From roaming through the earth and going back and forth in it.” Then the Lord said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil.” “Does Job fear God for nothing?” Satan replied. “Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. But stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face.” The Lord said to Satan, “Very well, then, everything he has is in your hands, but on the man himself do not lay a finger.” Then Satan went out from the presence of the Lord. [Job 1:6-12 NIV]

As if that was not enough[4], it happened again: On another day the angels came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan also came with them to present himself before him. And the Lord said to Satan, “Where have you come from?” Satan answered the Lord, “From roaming through the earth and going back and forth in it.” Then the Lord said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil. And he still maintains his integrity, though you incited me against him to ruin him without any reason.” “Skin for skin!” Satan replied. “A man will give all he has for his own life. But stretch out your hand and strike his flesh and bones, and he will surely curse you to your face.” The Lord said to Satan, “Very well, then, he is in your hands; but you must spare his life.” So Satan went out from the presence of the Lord and afflicted Job with painful sores from the soles of his feet to the top of his head. [Job 2:1-7 NIV]

Yes, it is argued that the Old Testament Book of Job is actually nothing more than a parable instead of a true account of something that really happened[5], but what about when Satan tempted Christ Jesus in the wilderness? For it is written: Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: “‘He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’” Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.” Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’” Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him. [Matthew 4:1-11 NIV]

Of course, it could always be argued that when Satan tempted Him, Christ Jesus was merely a man—not so unlike we naturally are, but who in their right-mind would want to believe that this is indeed true[6]? For it is written: “If you love me, you will obey what I command. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you.” [John 14:15-20 NIV]

{1}2 Timothy 3:16-17; {2}Romans 1:18-20; {3}Ezekiel 28:11-19; {4}Romans 15:4; {5}2 Peter 1:20-2:3; {6}Matthew 8:23-27.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter VII

2009-10-28T16:47:00.005-05:00

Chapter VII

And Go Seek

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!”

[Matthew 7:7-11 NIV]

It is quite natural to think of other things, but be assured that the greatest gift that our Heavenly Father has to offer is knowledge and understanding of Himself. For it is written: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money. Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” [Matthew 6:19-34 NIV]

No, this is not to discount the immeasurable value of the gift of eternal life[1], but the point that keeps getting missed at best, and ignored at worst[2], is the very close and personal relationship that we were all created to have with our Heavenly Father. For it is written: For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you have need again for someone to teach you the elementary principles of the oracles of God, and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is not accustomed to the word of righteousness, for he is an infant. But solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil. Therefore leaving the elementary teaching about the Christ, let us press on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, of instruction about washings and laying on of hands, and the resurrection of the dead and eternal judgment. And this we will do, if God permits. [Hebrews 5:12-6:3 NAS]

Yes, it is true that what we can have in this world is just a foretaste of what it will be like in our Heavenly Father’s Kingdom of Heaven[3], but if it is indeed true that His Holy Spirit truly lives within the hearts and minds of His children by faith, how can we not have so much more than what most have been led to believe[4]? For it is written: For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died; and He died for all, that they who live should no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf. Therefore from now on we recognize no man according to the flesh; even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now, we know Him thus no longer. Therefore if any man is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. [2 Corinthians 5:14-17 NAS]

Although it is really nothing new[5], a lot has been made of seekers lately. In fact, many churches now advertise that they are “seeker-friendly.”

Oh yes, it sounds so very exciting—especially to those who hope to see a great revival sweep across this troubled land[6], but the trouble with far too many “seekers” is that this is who they are. For it is written: If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does. [James 1:5-8 NIV]

In other words, “seekers” seek, and far too many of them do not have any expectations of ever finding anything. For if they did, they would no longer be “seekers,” and it is in this respect that they are actually nothing more than doubters.

Alas, that sounded so very harsh and unrighteous[7], but it still needed to be said. For it is written: First of all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. They will say, “Where is this 'coming' he promised? Ever since our fathers died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation.” But they deliberately forget that long ago by God's word the heavens existed and the earth was formed out of water and by water. By these waters also the world of that time was deluged and destroyed. By the same word the present heavens and earth are reserved for fire, being kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men. But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare. Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness. So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him. Bear in mind that our Lord's patience means salvation, just as our dear brother Paul also wrote you with the wisdom that God gave him. He writes the same way in all his letters, speaking in them of these matters. His letters contain some things that are hard to understand, which ignorant and unstable people distort, as they do the other Scriptures, to their own destruction. Therefore, dear friends, since you already know this, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of lawless men and fall from your secure position. But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. [2 Peter 3:3-18 NIV]

Yes, it would be different if our Heavenly Father was really hard to find, but He is not. For it is written: “I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me; I was found by those who did not seek me. To a nation that did not call on my name, I said, ‘Here am I, here am I.’ All day long I have held out my hands to an obstinate people, who walk in ways not good, pursuing their own imaginations.” [Isaiah 65:1-2 NIV]

Be assured that 2 Peter 3:3-18 speaks as much to the other side of the seeker coin as it does to those who refuse to “find” our Heavenly Father. For far too many in the Christian community are content with what they think they already have[8].

Furthermore, many “Christian” leaders have made a very good living out of encouraging the members of their congregations to be content with what they have. For it is written: But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; and avoid such men as these. For among them are those who enter into households and captivate weak women weighed down with sins, led on by various impulses, always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. [2 Timothy 3:1-7 NAS]

No, this is not to deny that when you have Christ Jesus that you have it all. MAY IT NEVER BE!!! For as it was with the Apostle Paul, so is it also with me—even now in this day and age of post-modern sophistication. For it is written: My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments. [Colossians 2:2-4 NIV]

It is just that far too many in the Christian community have any idea what it really means to truly be in Christ. Do you[9]?

{1}Ephesians 2:8-10; {2}1 Timothy 1:5-11; {3}1 Corinthians 13:9-10; {4}2 Corinthians 1:21-22; {5}Ecclesiastes 1:9-11; {6}2 Chronicles 7:14; {7}James 2:12-13; {8}1 Corinthians 12:27-13:13; {9}Hebrews 12:6.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter VIII

2009-10-28T16:41:00.002-05:00

Chapter VIII

Mysterious Ways

Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near. Let the wicked forsake his way and the evil man his thoughts. Let him turn to the LORD, and he will have mercy on him, and to our God, for he will freely pardon. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”

[Isaiah 55:6-9 NIV]

It is often said that the God works in mysterious ways, which is understandable. For if His ways truly are much higher than our own, how could we understand them without His help?

What is not understandable is why our Heavenly Father’s ways are still such a great mystery to such a great many. For if He really does want to have a very close and personal relationship with His children by faith, would He not want them to understand what He is doing to at least a certain extent[1]?

No, this is not to say that it is the same for all. For it all depends upon what our Heavenly Father wants to accomplish in and through someone that determines when, and to what extent, He will allow and enable them to enter into His absolute truth[2].

In other words, some are given a lot at a very early age, such as in the case of the Prophet Jeremiah[3]. Whereas others will have to wait until just before the end of their time as a part of this world before they are given very little in comparison, which is the way it was for “the thief on the cross[4].”

Tragically, the problem is not that our Heavenly Father has not been forthcoming. The problem is that far too many just do not want to hear what He has to say[5].

Take the greatest mystery of them all for an example. For theologians and philosophers have been wondering out loud for thousands of years about what the meaning of life (or the reason for our existence, to get more specific) could possibly be, and He has been giving them an answer too simple for most to accept. For we were created in order to give our Heavenly Father opportunities to freely receive a very special kind of love from us, and everything about this world is for that purpose.

Alas, there are not any Bible verses that say that. Well, at least not in so many words[6].

Nonetheless, this is not to say that we are not provided with written confirmation. For all of our Heavenly Father’s Holy Scriptures testify to who we were all created to be and why this world is as it is[7].

No, that is not good enough for far too many. For unless they have a Bible verse or passage that says just exactly this or that, they refuse to listen, and even when they are presented with such, if it does not match what they have been taught by others not so unlike themselves, the result remains the same[8].

Yes, it is written that we should not go beyond what is written[9], but then we are faced with those mysterious ways again[10]. For who can understand the ways of the Lord God Almighty without His help, and that means that there must be more than just a long, hard study of a book involved[11].

Thankfully, that is provided, and for those humble enough to learn from our Heavenly Father’s Holy Spirit[12], it should not be very hard to accept what He wants us to. For aside from His witness, our Heavenly Father also allows and enables us to have some hands-on experience from both sides of the matter[13].

You see, is it not relatively easy for most to love someone very attractive, in one way or another, and always does, or at least tries to do, what is desired of them? So, it is for this reason that our lives in this world are meant to be full of pain and suffering—even for those whom appear to be absolutely wonderful in our eyes. For in comparison to the worst of lives in His Kingdom of Heaven, the most wonderful of lives in this world is an excruciatingly slow and painful death. For it takes a very special kind of love to want to hang in there with someone who appears to be treating us very badly[14].

The reason for why our Heavenly Father partially hid Himself from our sight is also part of that. For our Heavenly Father has never wanted any of us professing their love for Him because of being either too afraid or too greedy not to[15].

Too afraid? This has to do with the awesomeness of our Heavenly Father’s glory, and the fact that many would want to bow down and worship Him just because of being too afraid not to[16].

Too greedy? This has to do with the indescribable splendor of our Heavenly Father’s Kingdom, and the fact that others would want to bow down and worship Him just because of what it could profit them[17].

No, there are not many amongst us (if any at all) who really care about why someone claims to love them, and generally seeks to do what is pleasing in their sight. For all we usually care about is that they keep on doing what we want them to do[18].

Woe be it to all who never really want to know the difference between what is real and what is coerced. For a love that is coerced[19] is really no love at all[20].

{1}Jeremiah 33:3; {2}1 Corinthians 2:6-16; {3}Jeremiah 1:4-10; {4}Luke 23:32-43; {5}Jeremiah 6:10; {6}Matthew 13:1-30; {7}Romans 8:18-25; {8}John 5:31-47; {9}1 Corinthians 4:6; {10}Job 11:7-9; {11}1 Corinthians 4:7; {12}John 14:26; {13}Romans 8:28; {14}Romans 11:32-36; {15}1 Corinthians 1:18-31; {16}Exodus 15:9-12; {17}Revelation 21:10-21; {18}Jeremiah 17:9; {19}Psalms 32:8-9; {20}1 Corinthians 13:4-13.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter IX

2009-10-28T16:38:00.001-05:00

Chapter IX

The Complete Message Of The Cross

For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. [Romans 5:6-8 NAS]

Be assured that the complete message of the cross has as much to do with our Heavenly Father proving Himself worthy of receiving all of our love and trust as it does with saving us from eternal damnation. For instead of just saying that He loves us enough to die for us, He went ahead and did it by sending a full and equal part of Himself to suffer and die upon a cruel, cruel Roman cross at Calvary so that all who would but believe in His only begotten Son, who truly is the Lord Jesus Christ, could spend all of eternity with Him in His Kingdom of Heaven as heirs to all that is His in glory[1].

No, this is not meant to encourage a departure from what has been so widely taught about the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ[2]. MAY IT NEVER BE!!! For we are all[3] in need of a Savior[4], and it is only through Him that we can come to our Heavenly Father[5].

In fact, the entire passage associated with Romans 5:6-8 reinforces this. For it is written: Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. And not only this, but we also exult in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation. [Romans 5:1-11 NAS]

Nonetheless, accepting Christ Jesus as our own personal Lord and Savior is like getting married[6]. Then comes the marriage itself[7], and it is in respect to this that what far too many have been led to believe falls woefully short of being most satisfying to Him—to say the least. For it is written: “My people are fools; they do not know me. They are senseless children; they have no understanding. They are skilled in doing evil; they know not how to do good.” [Jeremiah 4:22 NIV]

No, this is not about what is good enough for us. For knowing that He paid the price the full that was required to redeem us from having to pay for all of our own sins ourselves[8], and that we have eternal Spiritual life in Him[9], should be more than enough for any from amongst us[10].

This is about what our Heavenly Father ultimately wants. For it is not until it can be fully accepted that He is fully responsible for ALL that happens in this world that the kind of love that we can give Him reaches the level of satisfaction that He has always desired[11].

No, that is not beyond our comprehension. For would it not take a very special kind of love to want to stay married to someone who just stood by and watched while you were being brutalized when they could have prevented it from happening in the first place?

What if the attack was upon one of your children, and how much more is our Heavenly Father able to keep us all free from harm[12]? Yet, it is widely taught that He has nothing to do with the pain and sufferings of this world[13].

No, it should not be thought that our Heavenly Father must be immune to suffering Himself. For He takes everything oh so very personally[14], and when Christ Jesus had to actually spiritually die in order to truly fulfill the requirement of His Law[15], thus separating Himself from His Heavenly Father and His Holy Spirit[16], they were all in more agony than what we can even start to naturally comprehend[17]—albeit only for the brief amount of time that it was[18].

Yes, it certainly looks like a very bitter pill to swallow at first, but it should not stay that way[19]. For it should be of great comfort to know and understand that all of the bad in this world is for our ultimate good[20], and that our Heavenly Father will spend all of eternity pouring out His gratitude upon all who were willing to give Him the full benefit of their considerable doubts[21].

{1}John 3:16-21; {2}Ephesians 2:8-10; {3}Romans 3:23; {4}Romans 6:23; {5}John 14:6; {6}Ephesians 5:22-32; {7}Luke 9:23-26; {8}Hebrews 10:14-18; {9}John 6:37-40; {10}Psalms 103:8-18; {11}Isaiah 45:5-10; {12}Job 12:13-25; {13}2 Timothy 4:2-4; {14}John 11:1-44; {15}Leviticus 5:17-19; {16}Ezekiel 18:4; {17}Matthew 27:45-50; {18}Luke 23:44-46; {19}1 Corinthians 2:6-16; {20}Romans 8:28-29; {21}Romans 8:18-25.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter X

2009-10-28T16:31:00.002-05:00

Chapter X

Creative Possibilities

There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death. [Proverbs 14:12 NIV]

No, it is not the intent of this book, nor that of my own desires, to unfairly demean, embarrass, nor insult anyone in any way, shape or form for whatever they may want to believe is the truth. For it would be to work against what our Heavenly Father wants to accomplish to do so[1].

Nonetheless, I cannot imagine why anyone in their right-mind would not want to have full and complete faith in the true Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ[2]. For in comparison to all of the other ways that are said to provide a viable means of obtaining eternal spiritual life, only the true Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ offers[3] to pay the price in full that is required to redeem all of us from having to pay for all of our own sins ourselves[4].

Yes, it is easier said than done. For in order to truly have full and complete faith in the true Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, it must be accepted that we are just plain not good enough to make it into our Heavenly Father’s Kingdom of Heaven on our own[5], and this goes against everything that we naturally want to believe about ourselves[6].

Hence, the significance of being in one’s right-mind[7]. For it is written: The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned. [1 Corinthians 2:14 NIV]

Tragically, not everyone in the Christian community have full and complete faith in the true Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. For it has been widely taught that we must also earn our keep through the doing of various things[8], which naturally makes a lot of sense since this is the way of this world[9].

Alas, does that not make religions that teach reincarnation all the more attractive? For reincarnation promises many lives to get things right instead of just one[10].

Oh yes, it is a tempting thought. For there is much about my life that I am deeply ashamed of, and I would want to change some things if given an opportunity to do so. There are also many very good times (naturally-speaking) that I would not mind living all over again, of course.

However, that is not the way it is supposed to work—is it? For there is rarely any memory of past lives, and certainly no guarantee of being placed in the same circumstances with the same people as before. So, I cannot imagine why anyone in their right-mind would want spend much time thinking about the possibilities of doing anything all over again[11] when no judgment awaits them[12], and a world beyond wonder does[13].

Sadly, little of that holds much appeal for a growing number of this world’s population. In fact, it is infuriating to some. For they insist that our time would be better spent on searching for ways to improve and extend the lives that we now have instead of pursuing what cannot be confirmed (in their opinion).

Talk about taking “seeing is believing” plumb seriously. For their argument is based upon a lack of empirical evidence, and it extends all the way back to the very beginning of this world.

In other words, they demand scientific proof, which is proof that can be tested, and unless our Heavenly Father cooperates, no such proof will ever be found. For it is written: By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things which are visible. [Hebrews 11:3 NAS]

No, this is not to say that He will eventually concede to their demands, but if He was willing to provide the Apostle Thomas[14] with the proof that he needed, would He not also go way above and beyond all reasonable expectations for everyone else? For it is written: For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign LORD. Repent and live! [Ezekiel 18:32 NIV]

Therefore, let us not make it harder for the lost and confused to fully accept what our Heavenly Father actually says is absolutely true, and the promotion of such things as the teaching of intelligent design in our public school is not helping. For it seeks to employ natural means to explain what can only be spiritually discerned[15].

No, this is not to deny the sincerity of their efforts, but the absolute truth of the matter truly is that proponents of intelligent design are as deceived as the proponents of Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. For who is so blind as the one who does not want to see[16]?

Be assured that science poses no threat to our Heavenly Father. For what it is really doing is “discovering” what He has done and is still doing, and no one will be able to honestly say that they did not understand everything that He wanted them to[17], come Judgment Day[18], despite being taught that our earliest ancestors were amoebas swimming around in primordial ooze[19].

Speaking of science, there is another creative possibility that needs to be addressed—even though many will insist that it is really nothing more than science fiction. For there are some who want to believe that we are the descendants of colonists from a galaxy far, far away.

To be honest, I would like to believe that some of the alleged sightings of UFOs may have been a few distant cousins coming by for a look. For I find the idea of there being other worlds not so unlike our own absolutely fascinating.

Nothing has been revealed to me about such, however. For when I have asked our Heavenly Father about it, the only answer I have received is that whatever He may be doing somewhere else has nothing to do with the plans that He has made for us of this world[20].

Yes, it could be argued that the Lord God Almighty would never say such a thing. For it is written: And Adam called his wife’s name Eve; because she was the mother of all living. [Genesis 3:20 KJV]

The trouble with that line of reasoning, however, is that Eve is obviously not the mother of angels—not to mention plants and animals. Therefore, it must be that she is given credit for being the mother of all of mankind, and that leaves the door wide open for other possibilities.

Yes, it could also be argued that mankind being created in our Heavenly Father’s image[21] narrows down the possibilities considerably, but let us not ignore what the Apostle John saw in our Heavenly Father’s Kingdom of Heaven. For it is written: Out from the throne come flashes of lightning and sounds and peals of thunder And there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God; and before the throne there was something like a sea of glass, like crystal; and in the center and around the throne, four living creatures full of eyes in front and behind. The first creature was like a lion, and the second creature like a calf, and the third creature had a face like that of a man, and the fourth creature was like a flying eagle. And the four living creatures, each one of them having six wings, are full of eyes around and within; and day and night they do not cease to say, “HOLY, HOLY, HOLY is THE LORD GOD, THE ALMIGHTY, WHO WAS AND WHO IS AND WHO IS TO COME.” [Revelation 4:5-8 NAS]

{1}2 Timothy 2:24-26; {2}Romans 1:16; {3}1 John 5:12; {4}Hebrews 10:1-18; {5}Ephesians 2:8-10; {6}Jeremiah 17:5-10; {7}1 Corinthians 12:3; {8}1 Timothy 4:1-3; {9}2 Corinthians 11:3-4; {10}Hebrews 9:27; {11}Isaiah 45:9-10; {12}Hebrews 9:28; {13}Romans 8:18; {14}John 20:24-28; {15}1 Corinthians 2:6-16; {16}Psalms 14:1; {17}Romans 1:18-20; {18}Revelation 20:11-15; {19}Jeremiah 32:26; {20}John 21:18-25; {21}Genesis 1:27.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter XI

2009-10-28T15:58:00.003-05:00

Chapter XI

The Words Of The Word

But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach.

[Romans 10:8 KJV]

Again, let us not make it harder for the lost and confused to fully accept what our Heavenly Father actually says is absolutely true, but how can anyone do this if they are lost or confused themselves? For how can the blind lead the blind anywhere but to where they know not[1]?

Proof of just how blind far too many are can be found in the fact that most in the Christian community consider “The Word” to be our Heavenly Father’s Holy Bible. For the absolute truth of the matter truly is that “The Word[2]” is the Lord Jesus Christ[3]—not the sum-total of the words that He had placed into written form[4] in order to serve as written confirmation[5] of what He Himself wants to personally reveal, albeit through the efforts of His Holy Spirit[6], to each and every one of us, on an individual basis and without exception[7].

Yes, our Heavenly Father’s Holy Bible is often referred to as being the written word of God, but this does not change a thing. For instead of teaching that faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God[8] means that faith comes from Christ Jesus Himself, it is taught that faith comes from hearing the Bible being preached.

Yes, preceding verses in the related passage certainly seem to support their convictions—especially in regards to there being a need to preach the Gospel far and wide in order to fulfill The Great Commission[9]. For it is written: 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? 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 10:14-15 KJV]

On the other hand, how can any of us come to have faith in what is so unnatural to us[10] without the true Word of God being there ahead of any effort made on His behalf[11]? Therefore, is it not really by His efforts, first and foremost[12], that anyone comes to have faith in Him[13]?

No, this is not just another futile exercise in semantics, nor the splitting of theological hairs, in an effort to make some ridiculous point. For it is written: “You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life.” [John 5:39-40 NIV]

To get the full magnitude of what is being addressed, the entire related passage should be considered. For it is written: “If I testify about myself, my testimony is not valid. There is another who testifies in my favor, and I know that his testimony about me is valid. You have sent to John and he has testified to the truth. Not that I accept human testimony; but I mention it that you may be saved. John was a lamp that burned and gave light, and you chose for a time to enjoy his light. I have testimony weightier than that of John. For the very work that the Father has given me to finish, and which I am doing, testifies that the Father has sent me. And the Father who sent me has himself testified concerning me. You have never heard his voice nor seen his form, nor does his word dwell in you, for you do not believe the one he sent. You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life. I do not accept praise from men, but I know you. I know that you do not have the love of God in your hearts. I have come in my Father's name, and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him. How can you believe if you accept praise from one another, yet make no effort to obtain the praise that comes from the only God? But do not think I will accuse you before the Father. Your accuser is Moses, on whom your hopes are set. If you believed Moses, you would believe me, for he wrote about me. But since you do not believe what he wrote, how are you going to believe what I say?” [John 5:31-47 NIV]

Simply put, we are talking about a matter of eternal spiritual life and death here[14]. For the faith of far too many is based upon what is contained in our Heavenly Father’s Holy Bible instead of upon it’s Author, which is to make it an idol[15].

No, this is not to say that what is contained in our Heavenly Father’s Holy Bible is of little value. For it is written: All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work. [2 Timothy 3:16-17 NAS]

Nonetheless, it would do us all well to obtain a proper perspective. For it is written: Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. [2 Peter 1:20-21 NIV]

In other words, Heavenly Father’s Holy Bible was never meant to be employed as a book of instruction—certainly not in the same way as an educational textbook about science, mathematics, nor even history normally would be. For it is truly a book full of spiritual truths that only the spiritually-minded can correctly discern[16].

Yes, it would be different if we really were as much on our own as we appear to be in our own sight[17], but since we are not[18], would it not be better to have the Author to teach us instead of relying upon just the book by itself? For it is written: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30 NIV]

No, it should not be assumed that it is the same for everyone. For it all depends upon what our Heavenly Father wants to accomplish in and through someone that determines when, and to what extent, He will allow and enable them to come into the knowledge and understanding of His absolute truth[19].

A good example of what I have been given to say about no one being able to truly understand what our Heavenly Father’s Holy Scriptures are really saying without Him allowing and enabling them to can be found in Luke 24:13-49, with the optimum verse of the passage being the 45^th one. For it is written: Then He (thoroughly) opened up their minds to understand the Scriptures. [Luke 24:45 AMP]

Yes, there is something to say for tradition. For it naturally makes a great deal of sense to us that a belief system would not last very long unless it was based upon something tangible, and our Heavenly Father’s Holy Bible is something that we can literally grab a hold of[20].

Therein lies a problem—does it not? For who could really be sure that what is contained in our Heavenly Father’s Holy Bible is any more true than any of the other texts that are held to be sacred by millions upon millions of others of other beliefs if it was not for the witness of His Holy Spirit[21]?

Alas, woe be it to us all if there is really no way to be absolutely sure. For who can leave this world in peace without such knowledge and understanding[22]?

Since there are still some (quite a few, actually) who insist that the King James 1611 Authorized Version (KJV) is the only true and accurate English-language translation of our Heavenly Father’s Holy Bible there is, it would be good to address this before proceeding any further. For it is pure folly believe in such a way as this[23].

No, this is not to say that the venerable KJV should not be held in high esteem. For it is as fine of a translation as we have been given, but it is no better than many others.

Yes, there are some versions of our Heavenly Father’s Holy Bible that are really not versions at all. For they have been rewritten to fit a particular set of doctrines adhered to by the followers of certain denominations.

Be assured that the same thing is required to tell the difference between what is truly of our Heavenly Father and what is not—regardless of what version you may be reading. For the worshipers of the King James 1611 Authorized Version base their claims about its superiority upon the fact that it was compiled from completely accurate copies of the earliest known copies of the original manuscripts in their native language, but how can they be so sure that those copies of the earliest known copies of the original manuscripts really do contain the very words that were given to be placed into written form without the witness of the One who first gave them[24]? After all, were they not actually copies of earlier copies of earlier copies of even earlier copies, and have not many other versions of our Heavenly Father’s Holy Bible been compiled from the very same texts?

{1}1 Timothy 1:5-11; {2}John 1:1-18; {3}Revelation 19:13; {4}Ecclesiastes 12:11-12; {5}Romans 15:4; {6}John 16:13-15; {7}Hebrews 12:2-3; {8}Romans 10:17 KJV; {9}Matthew 28:18-20; {10}Job 11:7-9; {11}John 15:5; {12}John 16:8-11; {13}2 Peter 1:1-4; {14}1 John 5:9-12; {15}1 John 5:20-21; {16}1 Corinthians 2:14; {17}Isaiah 45:15; {18}Psalms 139:7-12; {19}Philippians 2:13; {20}Proverbs 14:12; {21}1 Corinthians 12:3; {22}Ephesians 1:13-14; {23}Isaiah 29:13; {24}Psalms 119:105.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter XII

2009-10-28T15:54:00.003-05:00

Chapter XII

Revelations

For God [does reveal His will; He] speaks not only once, but more than once, even though men do not regard it [including you, Job]. [One may hear God’s voice] in a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls on men, while slumbering upon the bed; then He opens the ears of men, and seals their instruction [terrifying them with warnings] that He may withdraw man from his purpose, and cut off pride from him [disgusting him with his own disappointing self-sufficiency]. [Job 33:14-17 AMP]

From the contents of the last chapter, it would be easy to naturally think that I am attempting to diminish the significance of our Heavenly Father’s Holy Bible. MAY IT NEVER BE!!! For it is a very special gift from Him that should not be ignored[1].

In fact, it would do us all well to become as familiar with our Heavenly Father’s Holy Scriptures as He will allow and enable us to be. For it serves as written confirmation of what He wants to personally reveal to each and every one of us, on an indidual basis and without exception[2].

In other words, the more familiar He will allow and enable us to become with what is contained in His Holy Bible, the easier it should become to recognize when our Heavenly Father is speaking to us. A good example of this occurred soon after He started making Himself to real to me while I was reading about Him forbidding Moses from entering into the promised land with the children of Israel because of Moses striking the rock twice, when he had been instructed to only do it once[3], in order to bring forth a flow of water in the wilderness[4].

As I was reading, a great wave of terror overwhelmed me. For I thought that there was surely no hope for me to ever be pleasing in His sight if He could be that harsh with Moses after he had been such a faithful servant for as many years as he had.

Almost immediately after being gripped with terror, another thought entered my mind that it was all part of our Heavenly Father’s plan to place Joshua in charge before they crossed over the Jordan. For He was not angry with Moses, but He did not want the children of Israel to take His commandments lightly[5].

So, He humiliated Moses for their benefit[6], and then exalted Joshua for the same reason. For it is written: And the LORD said to Joshua, “Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses.” [Joshua 3:7 NIV]

Be assured that all of that was confirmed by the Bible verses provided as reference, along with many, many more[7], within just a few days, and the only reason why it took that long is because of how new it all was to me. For I am now aware of being given Bible verses to back up what He is telling me at the very same time as He is doing so when I am having some trouble accepting what He wants me to understand[8].

No, it is not that our Heavenly Father had never spoken to me before that it was all so very new to me back then. For He had been doing so all of the previous 35 and a half years of my life in this world, but since I did not realize it, hearing His voice in 1993 was as new to me as if I had never experienced it before[9].

Oh yes, our Heavenly Father still speaks—just like He has been since the very beginning of this world[10]. For He truly is the same today as He always has been and will be forever and ever[11]. AMEN!!!

The devil and his demons are also allowed to whisper sweet nothings into our ears at times[12], and this is another reason why it would do us all well to become as familiar with our Heavenly Father’s Holy Scriptures as He will allow and enable us to be[13]. For the witness of our Heavenly Father’s Holy Spirit will not contradict what was written for our benefit[14]. Whereas the devil and his demons will twist things out of context[15].

Alas, therein lies the crux of the argument against faith coming from hearing the Bible being preached[16]—does it not? For what does it matter if we memorize every verse in our Heavenly Father’s Holy Bible if we have no idea what they are really saying, and how could we without the witness of His Holy Spirit[17]? After all, are not our Heavenly Father’s ways much, much higher than our own[18]?

Perhaps it would be helpful to look at it in more worldly terms. For to some, love is best expressed by giving their loved ones a good beating on a regular basis, and how can we know sure that this is not what our Heavenly Father considers to be love without Him telling us so directly? For without that, all we would have would be our own opinions—even with His Holy Scriptures to go by[19].

{1}2 Timothy 3:16-17; {2}Romans 15:4; {3}Exodus 17:1-7; {4}Numbers 20:2-12; {5}Deuteronomy 9:6; {6}Numbers 12:3; {7}1 Corinthians 10:1-14; {8}James 1:5-8; {9}Isaiah 65:1-2; {10}James 1:16-19; {11}Hebrews 13:8; {12}1 John 4:1; {13}Acts 17:11; {14}John 16:13-15; {15}John 10:10; {16}Romans 10:17; {17}John 14:26; {18}Isaiah 55:6-9; {19}1 Corinthians 13:4-13.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter XIII

2009-10-28T15:50:00.006-05:00

Chapter XIII

Can You Hear Him Now?

“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” [Revelation 3:22 NAS]

Apart from some radical factions in the Christian community, it is generally assumed that everyone in Christ has been given an ear to hear, but that is about as far as it gets for most. For who wants to admit that they have never heard His voice[1], but if this is indeed true, how can they be so sure that they have not[2]?

No, it will probably not be a booming voice coming out of a storm that you will hear like Job did[3]. Neither will it be like a whisper on the wind, as in the case of Elijah[4]. For it is mostly through our thoughts that our Heavenly Father likes to speak to us[5].

Nonetheless, this is not to deny that our Heavenly Father will sometimes speak to someone in an audible voice that is most definitely coming from outside of themselves[6] . I have experienced this on a number of occasions myself.

The first time I was made aware of hearing our Heavenly Father’s audible voice was when He said, “Introduce Me,” but it has mostly been just calling me by name since. For I have had many doubts about being pleasing in His sight[7].

Furthermore, I have been allowed and enabled to also experience dreams that were vivid enough to be thought of as visions. For it was as if I was actually there[8].

Yes, there is a difference between visions and dreams. For visions are experienced while awake[9], but let us resist the temptation to get technical about things when it really does not really matter either way[10].

No, it should not be assumed that everyone has an ear to hear. For as it is with everything else about our Heavenly Father’s spiritual gifts, it all depends upon what He wants to accomplish in and through someone that determines when, and to what extent, they will be allowed and enabled to hear what He has to say[11].

On the other hand, are there not many references made about having a gut feeling about something? Perhaps you have had one yourself?

How about all that is said about one’s inner voice? Could it be that these are just borrowed lines from some ancient sonnet, or could it be that there really is something to it?

Scientific research has even been conducted upon the phenomenon of certain twins having a special bond between them, and are there not times when someone will have a thought about something at the very same time as another in their midst? Surely there is more than genetics and environmental influences to these things.

No, this is not to suggest that every thought and feeling that we may have is a message from God[12], but it would do us all well to not take too much for granted. For our Heavenly Father is much nearer to us all than what most would dare to even consider[13].

Utter nonsense? Perhaps, but if it is indeed true that we were all created to be His children by faith[14], why would He not want to have a great personal interest in every aspect of our daily lives[15]? After all, is this not what is naturally expected of our earthly parents, and are not our

Heavenly Father’s ways much higher than theirs[16]?

No, it is not just in regards to what we would naturally consider as being spiritual matters that our Heavenly Father would seek to guide us. For even such supposedly trivial things as what we are going to eat and what we are going to wear are all part of His plan[17].

Not buying it? Well, consider this: Casting the whole of your care—all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all—on Him; for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully [Ps. 55:22]. [1 Peter 5:7 AMP]

No, you do not have to take “my” word for it. For it is for such a purpose as this that our Heavenly Father’s Holy Scriptures were given[18], but where have all the Bereans gone[19]?

Yes, the points and counter-points about this matter could make for quite a ping-pong match, and to be perfectly honest about it, I would not believe it myself if our Heavenly Father had not of made Himself real to me. For I was raised to believe that all anyone ever needed was a good church where the Bible was preached without compromise[20], but then everything changed[21].

Alas, maybe I have spent too many hours alone. For no one in their right-mind[22] would ever even consider the possibility (let alone actually accept) that it was the Lord God Almighty who was singing to them when songs like Styx’s “Fooling Yourself” would come on the radio during times of great trial and tribulation. The same also applies to many other songs, but on the other hand, it is written: For with God nothing shall be impossible. [Luke 1:37 KJV]

{1}Isaiah 65:1-2; {2}John 5:37-40; {3}Job 38:1; {4}1 Kings 19:12; {5}John 14:16-17; {6}1 Samuel 3:4-10; {7}Exodus 33:17; {8}Genesis 28:10-19; {9}Acts 10:9-16; {10}1 Corinthians 3:3; {11}1 Corinthians 12:7-11; {12}1 John 4:1; {13}Romans 10:8; {14}John 1:12-13; {15}Proverbs 16:33; {16}Isaiah 55:8-9; {17}Matthew 6:25-34; {18}2 Timothy 3:16-17; {19}Acts 17:11; {20}Romans 10:17; {21}2 Corinthians 5:17; {22}1 Corinthians 2:6-16.

MP3 Audio Player From: [BlogDumps Video]

FOOLING YOURSELF (THE ANGRY YOUNG MAN)

STYX

THE GRAND ILLUSION ALBUM (1977)

You see the world through your cynical eyes
You're a troubled young man I can tell
You've got it all in the palm of your hand
But your hand's wet with sweat and your head needs a rest

And you're fooling yourself if you don't believe it
You're kidding yourself if you don't believe it
Why must you be such an angry young man
When your future looks quite bright to me
How can there be such a sinister plan
That could hide such a lamb, such a caring young man

You're fooling yourself if you don't believe it
You're kidding yourself if you don't believe it
Get up, get back on your feet
You're the one they can't beat and you know it
Come on, let's see what you've got
Just take your best shot and don't blow it

You're fooling yourself if you don't believe it
You're killing yourself if you don't believe it
Get up, get back on your feet
You're the one they can't beat and you know it
Come on, let's see what you've got
Just take your best shot and don't blow it

Lyrics From: [Sing365.com]

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter XIV

2009-10-28T15:44:00.003-05:00

Chapter XIV

In The Fear Of The Lord

Serve the Lord with fear and rejoice with trembling. [Psalms 2:11 NIV]

When I talk about our Heavenly Father making Himself real to me, the only thing missing is not being able to actually see Him. For aside from being in almost constant communication with Him in one way or another, which is all part of what it truly means to pray without ceasing[1], there have been times when I have felt Him actually hold me in His arms[2].

In fact, there have been times when His presence has been so intense that I have felt myself starting to shake as if very afraid. Hence, what it means to truly be in the fear of the Lord.

No, that is not what has been widely taught. For being in the fear of the Lord is supposed to be about being literally afraid to do anything to upset Him according to religious traditions.

It makes sense—does it not? For we are talking about the One[3] who can erase all memory of an existence[4] whenever He feels like it[5], but what about what He actually says? For it is written: Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. We know that we live in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in him and he in God. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. In this way, love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world we are like him. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us. If anyone says, "I love God," yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother. [1 John 4:7-21 NIV]

Yes, the last part of that passage provides clear written confirmation of the absolute truth of the matter truly being that a great, great many really do have good reason to be very afraid if they continue along the path that they are now on[6]. For it is written: Then He said to me, "It is done I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end I will give to the one who thirsts from the spring of the water of life without cost. He who overcomes will inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son. But for the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and immoral persons and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death." [Revelation 21:6-8 NAS]

On the other hand: Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth. We will know by this that we are of the truth, and will assure our heart before Him in whatever our heart condemns us; for God is greater than our heart and knows all things. Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence before God; and whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do the things that are pleasing in His sight. This is His commandment, that we believe in the name of His Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, just as He commanded us. The one who keeps His commandments abides in Him, and He in him. We know by this that He abides in us, by the Spirit whom He has given us. [1 John 3:18-24 NAS]

The key to it all is truly hiding His Word in our hearts[7], which is to have and to hold the witness of His Holy Spirit[8]. For far too many in the Christian community are living a lie[9], and this grieves our Heavenly Father deeply[10].

{1}1 Thessalonians 5:17; {2}John 14:18; {3}Deuteronomy 6:4; {4}Exodus 17:14; {5}Job 9:12; {6}Ezekiel 18:30-32; {7}Psalms 119:11; {8}John 14:26; {9}Isaiah 29:13; {10}Jeremiah 5:30-31.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter XV

2009-10-28T15:38:00.001-05:00

Chapter XV

Spiritual Warfare

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. {We are} destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and {we are} taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. [2 Corinthians 10:3-5 NAS]

Simply put, every thought that crosses our minds comes from either ourselves, our Heavenly Father or the devil. For even if a thought is actually of His only begotten Son[1], who truly is the Lord Jesus Christ[2], His Holy Spirit[3] or one of His holy angels[4], it is still of Him[5]. For He and His only begotten Son and His Holy Spirit are One[6] and the same[7], and His holy angels are His servants, who do nothing on their own[8].

Furthermore, the same applies to Satan, who is the devil, and his horde of rogue angels, who are also called devils and demons[9]. For they can do nothing unless they are allowed and enabled to by our Heavenly Father[10].

It is the work of the devil and his demons to convince us that none of that is true—along with many other things, of course. For they are our only true enemies[11].

Needless to say, they have been very successful. For even amongst those who are willing to believe that they do indeed exist and are active in this world, so very, very few are willing to even entertain the possibility that they are actually servants of our Heavenly Father and working to accomplish His purposes[12].

Yes, it is written: Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death. [James 1:13-15 NAS]

It is not our Heavenly Father who is doing the tempting, however. For that is the role of the devil and his demons[13], and our Heavenly Father provides a means of escape so that only those who do not want to be saved will perish[14].

No, this is not to say that our Heavenly Father is in league with Satan. MAY IT NEVER BE[15]!!! For that would suggest a partnership when the absolute truth of the matter truly is that the devil has no choice but to do His bidding[16], and the same also applies to all of his demons[17].

Neither is to say that darkness really does dwell in our Heavenly Father[18]. For the reason why we exist in this world as we naturally do is in order to give Him opportunities to receive a very special kind of love, and the devil and his demons are unwitting participants in His plan[19].

Come on now, how could this not make sense? For is it not true that hardships tend to encourage those who want to believe in a Heavenly Father who is full of love and forgiveness to want to get closer to Him[20]? Therefore, if Satan and his horde of rogue angels really are at liberty to do as they please at this time, doing anything to cause us to want to get closer to God would be the last thing that they would want to do—would it not?

No, there is not a war raging between the forces of good and evil for our souls in the way that it has been so widely taught[21], but this is not to say that we have nothing to fear[22]. For it would not accomplish our Heavenly Father’s purposes to force anyone to spend all of eternity with Him in His Kingdom of Heaven as heirs to all that is His in glory against their will[23], and what breaks His heart is that so very, very, very many would rather believe in what Satan has to say and stay in the darkness of Spiritual ignorance[24] than truly walk in the Light[25] of His absolute Truth[26].

Alas, it is all just a continuation of what was started in the Garden of Eden. For the temptation was to be like God[27], and be in control of their own lives[28].

Therefore, let all who think that they are standing firm take heed before they fall[29]. For pride leads to destruction[30].

{1}John 1:18; {2}Matthew 3:16-17; {3}John 14:15-20; {4}Matthew 1:18-25; {5}John 6:45; {6}Deuteronomy 6:4; {7}Genesis 1:26; {8}Hebrews 1:14; {9}Revelation 12:9; {10}Luke 22:31; {11}Ephesians 6:10-12; {12}1 Timothy 1:18-20; {13}1 Peter 5:8-11; {14}1 Corinthians 10:1-14; {15}Job 34:12-15; {16}Ezekiel 28:18; {17}Job 12:16; {18}James 1:16-17; {19}Genesis 50:20; {20}Psalms 5:1-3; {21}2 Peter 2:1-3; {22}Mark 14:38; {23}John 3:16-21; {24}John 3:19-21; {25}John 8:12; {26}1 John 1:5-2:12; {27}Genesis 3:1-5; {28}James 4:13-17; {29}1 Corinthians 10:12; {30}Proverbs 16:18.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter XVI

2009-10-28T15:35:00.001-05:00

Chapter XVI

Demonic Possession

They went across the lake to the region of the Gerasenes. When Jesus got out of the boat, a man with an evil spirit came from the tombs to meet him. This man lived in the tombs, and no one could bind him any more, not even with a chain. For he had often been chained hand and foot, but he tore the chains apart and broke the irons on his feet. No one was strong enough to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and in the hills he would cry out and cut himself with stones. When he saw Jesus from a distance, he ran and fell on his knees in front of him. He shouted at the top of his voice, "What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? Swear to God that you won't torture me!" For Jesus had said to him, "Come out of this man, you evil spirit!" Then Jesus asked him, "What is your name?" "My name is Legion," he replied, "for we are many." And he begged Jesus again and again not to send them out of the area. A large herd of pigs was feeding on the nearby hillside. The demons begged Jesus, "Send us among the pigs; allow us to go into them." He gave them permission, and the evil spirits came out and went into the pigs. The herd, about two thousand in number, rushed down the steep bank into the lake and were drowned. Those tending the pigs ran off and reported this in the town and countryside, and the people went out to see what had happened. When they came to Jesus, they saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons, sitting there, dressed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. Those who had seen it told the people what had happened to the demon-possessed man—and told about the pigs as well. Then the people began to plead with Jesus to leave their region. As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him. Jesus did not let him, but said, "Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you." So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed. [Mark 5:1-10 NIV]

Yes, the fictional accounts produced by the entertainment industry of demonic possessions really do have some basis in fact, but it is an extremely rare occurrence—be assured[1]. For it is usually in a much more sinister way that a demon takes control over a person[2].

What happened to Judas Iscariot serves as a good example of that. For it is written: Now the Feast of Unleavened Bread, called the Passover, was approaching, and the chief priests and the teachers of the law were looking for some way to get rid of Jesus, for they were afraid of the people. Then Satan entered Judas, called Iscariot, one of the Twelve. And Judas went to the chief priests and the officers of the temple guard and discussed with them how he might betray Jesus. They were delighted and agreed to give him money. He consented, and watched for an opportunity to hand Jesus over to them when no crowd was present. [Luke 22:1-6 NIV]

No, that is not something that you will hear coming from most pulpits[3]. For Satan has been quite successful at convincing such a great, great many that Judas Iscariot acted out of his own freewill, and even from those that you might hear otherwise, the spin will be towards Judas causing this to happen to him by inviting Satan into his heart for one reason or another[4].

Yes, many of them would point to what was said about Judas by the One[5] who would know who would be spending all of eternity in Heaven or Hell[6]. For Christ Jesus said that it would have been better for him to have never been born[7], and this is something that would never be said of someone who was not being held accountable for such a sin[8].

The absolute truth of the matter truly is, however, that it is on account of how Judas reacted to his betrayal of His Lord and Savior after he came to his senses, and not what he had been a party to[9], that is the reason for why that was said of him—be assured[10]. For unlike the Apostle Peter[11] after his own fiery trial[12], Judas refused to have full and complete faith in the grace of our Heavenly Father[13].

Yes, there appears to be a discrepancy between the accounts of Judas’ death given in Matthew and Acts that should be addressed before proceeding any further. For in Matthew, it is written that he hanged himself[14]. Whereas in Acts, it is written that he fell headlong, his body burst open, and all his intestines spilled out[15].

Be assured that this came as a great mystery to me for many years, but then our Heavenly Father explained that there is actually no discrepancy at all[16]. For Judas did indeed hang himself, and it was after being cut down that his lifeless body was dropped headlong, which resulted in his belly bursting wide open.

Alas, what happened to Judas was a indeed great tragedy, and what is happening to far too many is just as great[17]. For the devil has convinced them that they have the authority to cast out demons wherever they may be found[18].

No, this is not to deny that our Heavenly Father will sometimes cast out demons through one of His chosen servants[19] for the benefit of all concerned[20]. For it is written: He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well." [Mark 16:15-18 NIV]

Such miracles are never independent of Him[21], however, and even in regards to those who do claim to be working with the full authority of the Lord Jesus Christ, it is by their very own words[22] that they attest to just how deceived they are[23]. For it is written: In the very same way, these dreamers pollute their own bodies, reject authority and slander celestial beings. But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not dare to bring a slanderous accusation against him, but said, "The Lord rebuke you!" Yet these men speak abusively against whatever they do not understand; and what things they do understand by instinct, like unreasoning animals—these are the very things that destroy them. Woe to them! They have taken the way of Cain; they have rushed for profit into Balaam's error; they have been destroyed in Korah's rebellion. [Jude 1:8-11 NIV]

{1}James 1:5-8; {2}2 Timothy 2:24-26; {3}2 Timothy 4:2-4; {4}2 Peter 1:20-2:3; {5}John 10:30; {6}2 Timothy 4:1; {7}Matthew 26:20-24; {8}1 Timothy 1:12-14; {9}John 7:24; {10}Luke 8:17-18; {11}John 21:15-17; {12}Mark 14:66-72; {13}Matthew 27:1-10; {14}Matthew 27:5; {15}Acts 1:18; {16}Jeremiah 33:3; {17}Ezekiel 18:30-32; {18}2 Corinthians 10:13-15; {19}Acts 16:16-18; {20}John 11:11-15; {21}John 15:5; {22}Matthew 12:37; {23}Matthew 7:15-23.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter XVII

2009-10-28T15:31:00.001-05:00

Chapter XVII

Sheltered Lives

Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall. No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it. [1 Corinthians 10:12-13 NAS]

With all of the “stuff” hitting proverbial fans all over the place, it is hard to imagine that any of us are leading all that much of a sheltered life. In fact, it would not be all that unreasonable to naturally think that it seems much more likely that most, if not all, of us were created to be the objects of our Heavenly Father’s wrath—certainly not His affections. For what has not reached out and bitten someone today will surely take a chunk out of their children tomorrow[1].

Nonetheless, there is more to our lives than what naturally comes to meet our physical sight[2], and it is in this regard that all of us lead much more sheltered lives than what most are willing to even consider[3]. For we were all created to be our Heavenly Father’s children by faith[4], and He has no desire to see any of us perish[5].

In other words, it is in regards to our eternal lives that we are sheltered, and it is about this that 1 Corinthians 10:12-13 is referring to. For it is written: “He who believes in Him is not judged; he who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” [John 3:18 NAS]

Yes, many have been led to believe that 1 Corinthians 10:12-13 addresses something much more tangible to the here and now. For it has been widely taught that our Heavenly Father will not allow His children by faith to be tempted to lie, steal, cheat, fornicate, murder, and all of the rest of those things beyond what they can withstand.

There is certainly plenty to support such a doctrine. For all in Christ are allowed and enabled to participate in His divine nature[6], and there is absolutely nothing sinful about that[7].

There is, however, the matter of just how much we are allowed and enabled to participate in our Heavenly Father’s divine nature while we are still a part of this world that should not be ignored[8]. For the more highly we want to think of ourselves—even in His only begotten Son, the more in danger of eternal damnation we become[9], and this most definitely applies to righteousness—be assured[10].

Alas, is this not something that the Apostle Peter was made all too painfully aware of? For even after being delivered from the humiliation of his denial of Christ[11] and restored to his position of leadership[12], was he not made to suffer even more[13]?

Yes, it can be argued that the Apostle Peter brought all of his own misery upon himself. For he had a tendency to be quite impetuous at inopportune times[14], and the density of his hard-headedness is beyond compare[15].

Nonetheless, is it not to miss the point to hold such a position? For if our Heavenly Father is truly able to shelter us from being tempted to sin by the devil, should He not be able to also shelter us from the wickedness of our own heart[16]—naturally-speaking, of course[17]?

No, none of this will make any sense to those who have not been given ears to hear[18], but the implications will be undeniable to those who have. For many have suffered so very much so very unnecessarily[19] because of being accused of not truly being in Christ because of false doctrines based upon the premise that no one who is truly in Him sins[20].

Yes, it is written: Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. [1 John 3:6 KJV]

Just like it is also written: Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. [1 John 3:9 KJV]

On the other hand, could it not be that what is being addressed in 1 John 3:3-10 is a different kind of sin? For it truly is as it is written: That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (for the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: but if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. [1 John 1:1-10 KJV]

No, I am not here to dispute the fact that all wrongdoing is sin[21], and that the one who sins is subject unto eternal damnation[22]. For it has been personally revealed to me that this is indeed true[23].

Nonetheless, is there not another side to this that we would do well not to ignore? For it is written: All wrongdoing is sin, and there is sin that does not lead to death. We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the one who was born of God keeps him safe, and the evil one cannot harm him. We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one. We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true—even in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. [1 John 5:17-20 NIV]

Alas, does that not serve as a further explanation of what 1 Corinthians 10:12-13 and 2 Peter 1:1-4 is actually addressing? For who from amongst us could stay firm in the faith without the shelter that is provided by our Heavenly Father[24]?

Yes, around and around it could go until the very end. Therefore, may we all make a close examination of ourselves. For who from amongst us can honestly say that there is nothing about ourselves that is not perfect in the same way as our Heavenly Father is perfect[25]?

Certainly not the Apostle Paul after He came to truly know our Heavenly Father in a very close and personal way[26]. For it is written: We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God's law; but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God's law, but in the sinful nature a slave to the law of sin. Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit. Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace; the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so. Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God. You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ. But if Christ is in you, your body is dead because of sin, yet your spirit is alive because of righteousness. And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you. [Romans 7:14-8:11 NIV]

{1}Hosea 4:1-14; {2}2 Corinthians 4:18; {3}John 3:19-21; {4}Romans 8:16; {5}Ezekiel 18:30-32; {6}2 Peter 1:3-4; {7}Psalms 18:30; {8}1 Corinthians 13:12; {9}Proverbs 16:18; {10}1 Corinthians 4:7; {11}Luke 22:54-62; {12}John 21:15-19; {13}Galatians 2:11-16; {14}John 18:7-11; {15}John 21:20-22; {16}Jeremiah 17:9-10; {17}Isaiah 45:9-12; {18}1 Corinthians 2:14; {19}2 Corinthians 10:1-12; {20}1 Timothy 1:5-11; {21}1 John 5:17; {22}Ezekiel 18:4; {23}Galatians 1:11-12; {24}Mark 14:38; {25}James 2:10; {26}Galatians 1:11-17.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter XVIII

2009-10-28T15:27:00.003-05:00

Chapter XVIII

Contractual Obligations

“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. I and the Father are one.”

[John 10:27-30 NIV]

No, there is no reason to worry about being stolen from our Heavenly Father’s pen, but this is not to say that the gate is kept closed[1]. For it would not fulfill our Heavenly Father’s purposes to force anyone to spend all of eternity with Him in His Kingdom of Heaven as an heir to all that is His in glory against their will[2].

Therefore, let us want to guard against taking too much for granted[3]. For this is surely a path that leads to destruction[4].

A good example of taking too much for granted involves something that I have been allowed and enabled to experience up close and oh so very personal. For I was raised to believe that once a person is saved from eternal damnation through the acceptance of Christ Jesus as truly being their own personal Lord and Savior[5] that they would remain saved from eternal damnation[6]—no matter what[7].

What I am talking about is often referred to as being once saved/always saved, and I clung to this doctrine with all of my might while I was out there sowing my wild oats. In fact, I would often preach such to a drunken choir when there were not any fair young maidens to entertain in the bar.

Then I was changed, and it was all brought into focus for me[8]. For instead of it being like a contract that cannot be altered in any way by either party involved, the absolute truth of the matter truly is that a child of our Heavenly Father’s family remains a member of His family for as long as they want to because of how much He has always loved them[9].

In other words, it is all about being wanted, and this is something that we can all have faith in. For it truly is as it is written: “All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away. For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me. And this is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all that he has given me, but raise them up at the last day. For my Father's will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.” [John 6:37-40 NIV]

No, it does not help matters much that it has been so widely taught that the love of God is nothing personal. For that promotes an image of our Heavenly Father not wanting anyone to perish[10] as being more about keeping score than anything else.

Alas, what a dreadful thing to look forward to. For who would want to spend all of eternity with someone who could not care less about whether they (as in regards to them as an individual) are really there or not.

Yes, it is quite natural to think that spending a relatively loveless eternity in Heaven would be better than being cast into the Lake of Fire[11], but if you would ask someone who is spending their life in a loveless marriage, I am quite sure that they would be of the opinion that it would not be all that much better. For if spending only twenty years in such a situation can feel like forever, just think what FOREVER AND EVER is going to feel like if the love that our Heavenly Father has for us is indeed completely devoid of passion.

Now, what about us? For it is written: It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age, if they fall away, to be brought back to repentance, because to their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace. Land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is farmed receives the blessing of God. But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and is in danger of being cursed. In the end it will be burned. [Hebrews 6:4-8 NIV]

Yes, the absolute truth of the matter truly is that one can lose their salvation. For in order for our Heavenly Father to truly have the kind of relationship that He wants to have with each and every one of us, on an individual basis and without exception, we must be free to reject Him—even after the marriage vows have been exchanged[12].

Granted, it is correctly argued that not all who claim to have accepted Christ Jesus as truly being their own personal Lord and Savior actually have[13], and that they did not have any salvation to lose when they appear to fall away[14]. Nonetheless, such an argument does not negate the fact that it is the same with us as it is with our Heavenly Father’s holy angels[15].

No, this does not have anything to do with earning our keep[16]. It does, however, have everything to do with us truly wanting to be one of our Heavenly Father’s children by faith[17], and most are not even close, nor have any desire to get closer, which places them in great danger of being spit out of His mouth, come Judgment Day[18].

Be truthful, is that not being proven to you at this very moment? For you feel a great uneasiness stirring deep down in your very soul, which is not an unfamiliar feeling[19], and yet you continue to resist because of how contrary what our Heavenly Father actually says is absolutely true is in comparison to what you have really placed your faith in[20].

So, may your rebellion be brief[21]. For the end may be nearer than you think[22], but even if it isn’t, who in their right-mind would want to delay truly having a very close and personal relationship with our Heavenly Father[23]?

{1}John 10:9; {2}John 1:12-13; {3}1 Corinthians 10:12; {4}Matthew 15:13-14; {5}John 3:16; {6}Ezekiel 18:4; {7}Psalms 25:3; {8}2 Corinthians 5:14-21; {9}John 8:35; {10}Ezekiel 18:32; {11}Revelation 20:10-15; {12}John 15:14-17; {13}Matthew 7:21-23; {14}2 Corinthians 11:13-15; {15}Jude 1:6; {16}Romans 11:6; {17}Luke 9:23-26; {18}Revelation 3:14-22; {19}John 16:8-11; {20}John 3:19-21; {21}2 Peter 2:4-9; {22}2 Peter 3:8-14; {23}1 Corinthians 2:6-16.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter XIX

2009-10-28T15:23:00.002-05:00

Chapter XIX

The Freedom To Choose

And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. [Joshua 24:15 AMP]

Yes, we do have a certain amount of what is commonly referred to as being “freewill.” For we could not be of any true and lasting value to our Heavenly Father without it[1].

It is, however, extremely limited. In fact, it is only in regards to the choice that we are given to make about wanting to truly accept our Heavenly Father as truly being our own Heavenly Father that we can be confident of there not being any divine intervention involved[2].

No, this is not to say that we are all on our own in this. For no one can come to our Heavenly Father except through His only begotten Son[3], and no one can come to His only begotten Son unless our Heavenly Father draws them[4].

Yes, it would appear that not all are given a choice in the matter. That is, of course, unless you are of the opinion that all who fail to reach their own age of accountability before their own time as a part of this world never counted in the first place.

No, it has not been revealed to me just exactly how it will work in our Heavenly Father’s Kingdom Of Heaven. For that is on a strictly need to know basis[5], and I obviously do not need to know—albeit only at this time[6]. For if I did need to know, it would have been already revealed to me[7].

Anyway, what I do know is that it will be as it should be in the end[8]. For no one will be forced to spend all of eternity with our Heavenly Father in His Kingdom Of Heaven as an heir to all that is His in glory against their will[9].

Yes, there are many who insist that none of us are given any choice in the matter at all. This is, of course, a result of unbridled Calvinism in the extreme.

No, it is not that they do not have any Scriptures to point to. For it is written: The Lord has made everything [to accommodate itself and contribute] to its own end {and} His own purpose--even the wicked [are fitted for their role] for the day of calamity {and} evil. [Proverbs 16:4 AMP]

The ninth chapter of Romans appears to make it all the more clear that our Heavenly Father creates some for glory and all of the rest for destruction, but I would think that most (if not all) would want to believe that the parts that appear to being saying such are meant to be rhetorical in nature. For who in their right-mind[10] would want to spend all of eternity with someone so cruel? After all, what would there be to prevent Him from changing His mind about even the elect[11] somewhere down the line if so many of us are of no concern to Him[12]?

{1}Ephesians 5:22-32; {2}John 1:12-13; {3}John 14:6; {4}John 6:44; {5}2 Corinthians 12:4; {6}John 20:29; {7}2 Peter 1:3; {8}Romans 8:18-21; {9}John 6:66-67; {10}1 Corinthians 2:6-16; {11}Matthew 24:21-31; {12}Job 34:12-15.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter XX

2009-10-28T15:19:00.001-05:00

Chapter XX

Command and Control

For God has bound all men over to disobedience so that he

may have mercy on them all. [Romans 11:32 NIV]

I like to refer to them as being “eye-poppers.” For when I “find”[1] such a verse, it feels like my eyes are about to pop out of their sockets.

Romans 11:32 is such a verse. For it serves as written confirmation of the absolute truth of the matter truly being that we are not nearly as free to do as we like as what we have been so strongly encouraged to believe[2].

Alas, is it not any wonder that seldom a sermon is heard that is based upon that verse? For hearing it preached that our Heavenly Father is the reason why none of us can really be good in, and of, ourselves is not something that far too many want to hear[3].

Yes, many would argue that the main reason why there are not that many sermons based upon Romans 11:32 is because it represents old news. For it is already well established that all are born into sin[4], and it has been widely taught that Romans 11:32 speaks to that.

Ah, but for that to be true, Ezekiel 18:20 would have to be false. For it is written: The soul who sins is the one who will die. The son will not share the guilt of the father, nor will the father share the guilt of the son. The righteousness of the righteous man will be credited to him, and the wickedness of the wicked will be charged against him. [Ezekiel 18:20 NIV]

No, this is not to deny that all have sinned. For it is also written: There is not a righteous man on earth who does what is right and never sins. [Ecclesiastes 7:20 NIV]

Nonetheless, let it be widely known and well understood that what Romans 11:32 is really addressing is something much more personal. For it is the same today as it was during the days of the Prophet Ezekiel: For every living soul belongs to me, the father as well as the son--both alike belong to me. The soul who sins is the one who will die. [Ezekiel 18:4 NIV]

Yes, since none of us would purposely subject ourselves to all that our Heavenly Father truly has[5], it is naturally inconceivable that the Creator of us all would. For who from amongst us would allow something that they had created for their own good pleasure[6] to continue to fail to meet their expectations if there was anything that they could do about it? After all, would it not be preferable to just destroy it and start all over rather than leave it as a reminder of a miserable failure? That is, unless it did not mean all that much to them in the first-place, of course.

No, that is not something that applies to our Heavenly Father. For it is written: “Therefore, O house of Israel, I will judge you, each one according to his ways, declares the Sovereign LORD. Repent! Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall. Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed, and get a new heart and a new spirit. Why will you die, O house of Israel? For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign LORD. Repent and live!” [Ezekiel 18:30-32 NIV]

Neither should it be assumed that it must be that there is nothing that He can do about our inherent unrighteousness. For it is also written: “If he snatches away, who can stop him? Who can say to him, ‘What are you doing?’” [Job 9:12 NIV]

Yes, there are many who would point to a discussion between our Heavenly Father and Moses as being an indication of why we are still around. For it is written: "I have seen these people," the LORD said to Moses, "and they are a stiff-necked people. Now leave me alone so that my anger may burn against them and that I may destroy them. Then I will make you into a great nation." But Moses sought the favor of the LORD his God. "O LORD," he said, "why should your anger burn against your people, whom you brought out of Egypt with great power and a mighty hand? Why should the Egyptians say, `It was with evil intent that he brought them out, to kill them in the mountains and to wipe them off the face of the earth'? Turn from your fierce anger; relent and do not bring disaster on your people. Remember your servants Abraham, Isaac and Israel, to whom you swore by your own self: `I will make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and I will give your descendants all this land I promised them, and it will be their inheritance forever.' " Then the LORD relented and did not bring on his people the disaster he had threatened. [Exodus 32:9-14 NIV]

Be assured that they do have a point. For it is because of the promise given to us all that we have hope[7].

Nonetheless, do not take too much stock in the premise that it is because of our Heavenly Father not wanting to appear unrighteous in the eyes of His enemies that is the real reason for why we still exist. For both the deceiver and the deceived are His to do with as He likes[8].

Yes, it is the very definition of bittersweet, but unless we are willing to conclude that our Heavenly Father must not be all that He actually says that He absolutely is, it must be accepted that even our sinfulness is by design[9]. For who could do anything against His will if He truly is all-powerful[10]? Moreover, would He not know all about the deed to be done even before it came to mind if He is truly all-knowing[11], and would He not actually be there at the very moment that it came to pass if He is truly always-present[12]?

No, this is not to say that we were created to sin. For the absolute truth of the matter truly is that we were created without the ability not to sin[13].

Yes, there is a big difference between the two, but what does it really matter if it cannot be accepted that our Heavenly Father truly is perfect in all of His most awesome ways[14]? For it may very well be that the Apostle Paul really was out of his mind[15] to place into writing the rest of the story to Romans 11:32: Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! "Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?" "Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?" For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen. [Romans 11:33-36 NIV]

{1}Isaiah 65:1-2; {2}Proverbs 16:33; {3}2 Timothy 4:2-4; {4}Romans 3:23; {5}Romans 8:20; {6}Philippians 2:13; {7}Galatians 3:26-29; {8}Job 12:16; {9}Colossians 1:16-17; {10}Psalms 33:6-11; {11}Psalms 94:11; {12}Psalms 139:1-16; {13}Proverbs 20:9; {14}Psalms 18:30-32; {15}2 Corinthians 11:16-29.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter XXI

2009-10-28T15:16:00.001-05:00

Chapter XXI

Law and Disorder

For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles in one {point,} he has become guilty of all. [James 2:10 NAS]

No, it is not at all true that we are really nothing more than puppets on our Heavenly Father’s string. For how could we be found guilty of breaking His Law if it was not by our own actions that it was broken[1]?

Nonetheless, it would not be all that far-fetched to think of the reality of our situation in this world as having been given enough rope to hang ourselves[2]. That is, at least not from our own very limited ground-based points-of-view[3]. For our Heavenly Father could have created us just as invulnerable to the temptations of sin as He absolutely is[4].

On the other hand, it would be better if we did not, of course. For it is written: For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God {did:} sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and {as an offering} for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. [Romans 8:3-4 NAS]

Is this to say that our Heavenly Father’s Law failed to meet its objective? MAY IT NEVER BE!!! For it is also written: So then as through one transgression there resulted condemnation to all men, even so through one act of righteousness there resulted justification of life to all men. For as through the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, even so through the obedience of the One the many will be made righteous. The Law came in so that the transgression would increase; but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more, so that, as sin reigned in death, even so grace would reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. [Romans 5:18-21 NAS]

In other words, we (as in regards to all of mankind) have been in need of a Savior ever since sin entered into this world through the disobedience of Adam in the Garden of Eden[5], but before the Law was given through Moses[6], sin was not generally taken into account as being unlawful by mankind[7]. Therefore, the Law was given in order to make it easier for us to see just how desperately in need of a Savior we naturally are[8].

Yes, much of that certainly appears to support the notion that we are all born into sin, but be assured that to believe in such a way as this is to miss the point. For being physically born into a world full of sin is not the same as to be born sinful[9] !

{1}Colossians 3:25; {2}Romans 7:14-25; {3}Colossians 3:2; {4}James 1:13-15; {5}Genesis 3:1-15; {6}John 1:17; {7}Romans 5:12-14; {8}1 Timothy 1:8-11; {9}Ezekiel 18:20.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]

Bittersweet Refinements: Chapter XXII

2009-10-28T15:12:00.001-05:00

Chapter XXII

The Price

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. [Romans 6:23 NAS]

It is a principle that should not be foreign to any of us. For when someone breaks a law, it is said that they owe a debt to society.

Be assured that it is the same with our Heavenly Father’s Law. For when it is broken, a debt is owed to Him[1].

In fact, it is for this reason that the laws of this world were established. For they were given to prepare us for judgment[2].

Some judgment—huh? For even the slightest indiscretion carries with it the penalty of spiritual death[3].

By the way, do you really understand what a slight indiscreation is in our Heavenly Father’s sight? For it is written: “You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” [Matthew 5:27-28 NIV]

Yes, it was established in our Heavenly Father’s Law that a sacrificial offering for the atonement of sins could be made, but even during those days, it was understood that it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to wash away sins[4]. For it is written: Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, the God of my salvation; {Then} my tongue will joyfully sing of Your righteousness. O Lord, open my lips, That my mouth may declare Your praise. For You do not delight in sacrifice, otherwise I would give it; You are not pleased with burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; A broken and a contrite heart, O God, You will not despise. [Psalms 51:14-17 AMP]

Therefore, any pretense of saving ourselves is pure folly[5]. For if the price to be paid is spiritual death, then only spiritual death can pay the debt[6].

Therefore, are we not all in need of a Savior[7], and do we not have One in our Heavenly Father’s only begotten Son[8]? For it is written: For the Law, since it has {only} a shadow of the good things to come {and} not the very form of things, can never, by the same sacrifices which they offer continually year by year, make perfect those who draw near. Otherwise, would they not have ceased to be offered, because the worshipers, having once been cleansed, would no longer have had consciousness of sins? But in those {sacrifices} there is a reminder of sins year by year. For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. Therefore, when He comes into the world, He says, "SACRIFICE AND OFFERING YOU HAVE NOT DESIRED, BUT A BODY YOU HAVE PREPARED FOR ME; IN WHOLE BURNT OFFERINGS AND {sacrifices} FOR SIN YOU HAVE TAKEN NO PLEASURE. "THEN I SAID, 'BEHOLD, I HAVE COME (IN THE SCROLL OF THE BOOK IT IS WRITTEN OF ME) TO DO YOUR WILL, O GOD.'" After saying above, "SACRIFICES AND OFFERINGS AND WHOLE BURNT OFFERINGS AND {sacrifices} FOR SIN YOU HAVE NOT DESIRED, NOR HAVE YOU TAKEN PLEASURE {in them}" (which are offered according to the Law), then He said, "BEHOLD, I HAVE COME TO DO YOUR WILL." He takes away the first in order to establish the second. By this will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. Every priest stands daily ministering and offering time after time the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins; but He, having offered one sacrifice for sins for all time, SAT DOWN AT THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD, waiting from that time onward UNTIL HIS ENEMIES BE MADE A FOOTSTOOL FOR HIS FEET. For by one offering He has perfected for all time those who are sanctified. And the Holy Spirit also testifies to us; for after saying, "THIS IS THE COVENANT THAT I WILL MAKE WITH THEM AFTER THOSE DAYS, SAYS THE LORD: I WILL PUT MY LAWS UPON THEIR HEART, AND ON THEIR MIND I WILL WRITE THEM," {He then says,} "AND THEIR SINS AND THEIR LAWLESS DEEDS I WILL REMEMBER NO MORE." Now where there is forgiveness of these things, there is no longer {any} offering for sin. [Hebrews 10:1-18 AMP]

In other words, our Heavenly Father’s only begotten Son, who truly is the Lord Jesus Christ[9], paid the price in full that was required under His Law by offering Himself up to be crucified[10] upon that cruel, cruel[11] Roman cross at Calvary[12], and all who will place their hope in Him shall never be put to shame[13]. For nothing has ever been truer than what is written: “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. He who believes in Him is not judged; he who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” [John 3:16-18 NAS]

Yes, our Heavenly Father could have just issued a general pardon of sorts, but in doing so, He would have been (in effect) declaring that His Law was meaningless and not worth upholding. For in the case of a pardon, the penalty for the crime is set aside.

No, that was not something that our Heavenly Father was willing to do. For His Law is most certainly not meaningless[14], and it is most certainly worth upholding[15].

Nonetheless, let us not get caught-up in legalities[16]. For it was in order to prove just how much our Heavenly Father truly loves us that His Law was fulfilled instead of merely being set aside: For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath {of God} through Him. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. And not only this, but we also exult in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation. [Romans 5:6-11 NAS]

Yes, it would be different if it was all for show, but it was not— be assured. For in order for the Lord Jesus Christ to truly pay the price that was required, He had to actually spiritually die, and for those few moments when He was truly separated from the love of our Heavenly Father and His Holy Spirit, They[17] were all in absolute agony[18].

{1}Ezekiel 18:4; {2}Romans 13:1-7; {3}James 2:10; {4}Hebrews 10:4; {5}Psalms 49:7-9; {6}Ezekiel 18:4; {7}Romans 3:23; {8}1 John 5:9-12; {9}Matthew 3:13-17; {10}Hebrews 9:11-15; {11}Isaiah 52:13-53:12; {12}John 19:16-30; {13}Isaiah 45:17; {14}1 Timothy 1:8-11; {15}Matthew 5:17-18; {16}Matthew 5:19-20; {17}1 John 5:8; {18}Matthew 27:45-54.

Link: [As A Downloadable Google Doc]