Showing posts with label Faith. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Faith. Show all posts

Monday, February 3, 2025

Rightly Dividing Christianity and Government: Honoring the Government?


For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. John 3:16 MEV

 We began a brief study rightly dividing government and Christianity. There are many traditions and ideas regarding Christians and their relationship with the government. First, we must understand the primary focus and message of the Church. It's Jesus! We are called to be a light in this fallen world, pointing people to the Lord Jesus Christ. So why did Peter and Paul tell us about government?

 When Paul and Peter penned their Epistles, Christianity was a minor "religion." They didn't want believers to be labeled as rebellious lawbreakers who would not pay taxes and be troublemakers, cheaters, and dishonest citizens. Their intent was for Christians to live upright in a fallen world, and give honor to whom it is due. 

 Yet, through the years and the Westernized version of the Faith, we have fashioned traditions and concepts about government that extend the intent of the Word. For generations, religious tradition has preached that Christians are required to honor and obey the government, no matter what. Believers are told to submit without question, citing verses like Romans 13:1-2 and 1 Peter 2:13-17 as proof that we must always honor and obey our rulers.

But does the Bible actually teach this? Are we supposed to honor any government, even one that is corrupt, tyrannical, or blatantly anti-God?

What about when governments pass laws that go against God’s Word? What about regimes that persecute Christians? Did the early church always submit to the governing authorities?

It’s time to rightly divide the Word of Truth and dismantle religious tradition that contradicts Scripture and historical reality.

 The idea that Christians must always honor the government is largely a Westernized interpretation of Scripture. Many American and European churches have taught this doctrine in a comfortable, democratic society where laws have generally aligned with Judeo-Christian values.

But what happens when the government becomes corrupt, oppressive, or hostile toward Christianity?

What happens when governments, like those in China, North Korea, or Islamic nations, outlaw the preaching of the Gospel and imprison believers? Are Christians still required to "honor" these rulers?

One of the most misused passages regarding government is Romans 13:1-3.

📖 Romans 13:1-3 (KJV)
"Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil…"

"Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God." —Romans 13:1 (NKJV)

🔹 What the Greek and Context Actually Reveal:

The word “appointed” (Greek: tassō, τάσσω) means arranged, set in order.
✔ This does NOT mean every ruler’s actions are God’s will.
✔ God establishes government as an institution—but He does NOT ordain every leader’s wickedness.
✔ If every government were truly God's will, then Hitler, Stalin, and Mao were God’s “chosen instruments.” That is absurd!

🔹 "Subject" (ὑποτασσέσθω - hypotassesthō) – This word means to arrange under but does not imply blind obedience. It is also used in Ephesians 5:21, which tells believers to submit to one another. Does that mean a wife should submit if her husband tells her to sin? No! Submission in the Bible is always within the boundaries of God’s will.

🔹 "Ordained" (τεταγμέναι - tetagmenai) – This word means arranged or set in place. It does not mean that every single government leader is personally chosen by God. Rather, God has established the principle of government, but He does not endorse every ruler or policy.

🔹 "Rulers are not a terror to good works" (Romans 13:3) – If a government is punishing good and rewarding evil, it is acting contrary to God’s intent for government! This passage assumes a just government, not one that persecutes believers.

🔹 Tradition says this means ALL governments are God-ordained, and resisting them is sinful.

🔹 Reality: Paul is talking about just governments that punish evil and promote good.

If Romans 13 applied to ALL governments, that would mean:

✅ God ordained Hitler, Stalin, and Mao to commit mass genocide.
✅ Resisting a government that murders Christians would be a sin.
✅ Corrie Ten Boom and the family of Anne Frank were sinful for hiding Jews during the Holocaust.
✅ Peter and John were in rebellion against God when they refused to stop preaching.

Clearly, this interpretation is nonsense.

Paul’s Actual Point in Romans 13:

🔸 He was speaking to believers in Rome under a corrupt, pagan empire.
🔸 He emphasized that Christians should not be anarchists or violent rebels trying to overthrow the government.
🔸 Submission in context means being lawful citizens—NOT blind obedience to tyranny.

🚨 Paul himself defied government authorities when they opposed God’s law!

✅ He rebuked corrupt leaders (Acts 23:3).
✅ He wrote most of his letters from prison—because he was imprisoned for disobeying government orders!

👉 If Romans 13 meant absolute submission, Paul should have just obeyed Rome and stopped preaching! Clearly, this passage is not teaching blind obedience to evil rulers.

💡 If Romans 13 means Christians must honor and obey all governments, then early believers should have obeyed Nero when he burned Christians alive. They should have renounced their Faith and no longer be Christian. That was the Law and words of Nero. 

What About 1 Peter 2:13-14?

📖 1 Peter 2:13-14 (NKJV)
"Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake, whether to the king as supreme, or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers..."

🔹 Does this mean we submit to ANY law, no matter how wicked?
🔹 No—Peter is speaking of governments that punish evil and reward good.

Peter himself disobeyed the authorities in Acts 5 when they commanded him to stop preaching.

💡 If 1 Peter 2 meant absolute obedience to government, then Peter was a hypocrite for defying the authorities in Acts 5.

Clearly, Peter’s words do not mean blind obedience.

1 Peter 2: Honor the King? What Does That Really Mean?

Another commonly misquoted passage is 1 Peter 2:17:

"Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king." —1 Peter 2:17 (NKJV)

🔹 Religious Tradition Says:
👉 "See? The Bible says we must honor government leaders, no matter who they are!"

🔹 What the Greek Actually Says:
The word “honor” (Greek: timaō, τιμάω) means to show proper respect—not to blindly obey or support.

✔ We "honor" rulers by recognizing their position—but that does not mean endorsing their evil.
✔ The same passage says, "Fear God."
✔ If a ruler contradicts God’s law, we obey God first, not them! (Acts 5:29)

🚨 Honoring a leader does not mean obeying their wickedness!

Example:
🚨 In Nazi Germany, should Christians have “honored” Hitler by obeying his laws? Should they have turned over Jews to be exterminated?
🚨 In communist China, should believers “honor” the government by handing over fellow Christians? Should they reveal where the underground churches meet?

 The Bible is full of righteous defiance against corrupt government orders:

✅ The Hebrew Midwives (Exodus 1:17-20) – They DISOBEYED Pharaoh’s command to kill Hebrew babies, and God rewarded them.
✅ Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Daniel 3:16-18) – They REFUSED to bow to Nebuchadnezzar’s golden image, even under threat of death.
✅ Daniel (Daniel 6:10) – He continued PRAYING despite King Darius’ decree.
✅ The Apostles (Acts 5:27-29) – They refused to stop preaching and boldly declared, "We must obey God rather than men!"
✅ The Magi (Matthew 2:12) – They DISOBEYED King Herod and did not report back to him.

🚨 If the concept “Christians must always honor government” were true, then these people would have been in rebellion against God. But the Bible calls them righteous and faithful!

 I must note one sensitive topic in highlighting this relationship between Christians and government; the 2020-2021 COVID lockdowns and mandates. Days before the lockdowns ensued I warned fellow church leaders in the church I was a part of that government is not to be trusted to deal justly with the Church. I received push back due to this same religious tradition, I was not honoring the government.

 2020 and 2021 exposed how quickly governments overreach their power.

  • Pastors were arrested for holding church services while liquor stores, bars and abortion clinics remained open.
  • Christians were fined for worshiping, while violent protesters were praised for gathering in massive crowds.
  • Believers were mocked for standing for religious freedom, while lawless rioters were called heroes.

Was this "honoring" government?

The Bible never commands us to submit to laws that silence worship or criminalize faith. Peter and John refused to obey government in Acts 5.

📖 Acts 5:29 (NKJV)
"But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: ‘We ought to obey God rather than men.’”

When the state commands what God forbids or forbids what God commands, we must peacefully disobey. 

During the COVID-19 lockdowns, many believers who had once boldly proclaimed God’s promises of protection and healing suddenly found themselves paralyzed by fear. Churches that had long preached faith, healing, and redemption closed their doors without hesitation. Some remained locked down for nearly two years, not because of wisdom, but because fear had taken hold.

Psalm 91—God’s promise of divine protection—had been a source of encouragement for many, yet when the moment of testing came, some who once declared “no plague shall come near my dwelling” (Psalm 91:10 NKJV) were the first to retreat into isolation. Faith took a backseat to government mandates. The church, which is meant to be the light of the world, instead followed the world’s lead, embracing caution over confidence in God’s Word.

This isn’t to suggest that wisdom has no place or that Christians should be reckless. But the reality is, many were quick to submit to the government’s restrictions on worship while turning a blind eye to the blatant double standards. Big box stores, Bars, liquor stores, and abortion clinics remained open while churches were deemed "non-essential." Peaceful Christian gatherings were banned, while riots and protests were permitted without restriction. Yet instead of resisting, many in the church shamed those who dared to gather, labeling them "irresponsible" or "unloving."Believers should have stood together, instead of rebuking their own brethren for "not honoring the government.

Final Verdict: "Christians Must Honor Government" is a False Concept

✅ We honor righteous authority.
✅ We submit where submission does not contradict God's Word.

✅ But we never honor, obey, or submit to evil.

In summation of this brief study, what should we do as Christians?

✅ Pray for religious freedom. (1 Timothy 2:2)
✅ Pray for boldness to speak the truth. (Acts 4:29)
✅ Resist laws that contradict God’s Word. (Acts 5:29)
✅ Obey God over man when forced to choose. (Daniel 3 & 6)
✅ Respect government when it is fulfilling its God-ordained role (Romans 13:3-4).
 Disobey any law that contradicts God’s Word (Acts 5:29).
 Expose evil rulers and hold them accountable (Ephesians 5:11).
 Pray for righteous leadership and the restraint of wickedness (1 Timothy 2:1-2).



Image by Couleur from Pixabay

Monday, December 9, 2024

Abundance of Grace


For if by the one man’s offense death reigned through the one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ.) Romans 5:17 NKJV

For if, through the transgression of the one individual, Death made use of the one individual to seize the sovereignty, all the more shall those who receive God's overflowing grace and gift of righteousness reign as kings in Life through the one individual, Jesus Christ. Romans 5:17 WEY

 Grace, what is Grace? Is Grace just a doctrine or a topic we study? Is Grace merely an abstract or fleeting concept we don't consider much? Grace is not a doctrine or a topic. Grace is the unearned, undeserved, unmerited favor of God lavished upon us.

 Grace is the very heartbeat of God’s love, expressed through Jesus Christ.  Grace is the heartbeat of divine Love demonstrated in and through the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It's Jesus' victorious work of redemption, a free gift fully and freely received into our lives, never earned. 

 Paul tells us through the direct inspiration of the Spirit that when we receive the abundance of Grace, we will reign in this life. We reign in life, not fear, inferiority, shame, guilt, condemnation, or sin. We will not be timid but bold. All of this is based on Jesus' work and not our own.

 Grace is an inexhaustible truth. Biblical truths such as Faith, Love, hope, and Grace are truths we continue studying and growing in deeper understanding. God dedicated whole Epistles to teach us Faith and Grace and reveal His Love. 

 Grace is also something we must continually feed on because the default setting of humanity is earning and achieving. No matter how often we hear about the Cross, some still come away believing there is a part they must play in redemption and eternal salvation. The Cross reveals the Grace of God.

 The Cross of Christ stands as the ultimate revelation of God’s grace. It declares that no human effort could pay the price. It was the only work that could bring right standing with God and redeem us from the curse of the Law. 

 Yet, with the witness of the Cross, we still have ministries and churches proclaiming that it is the work of the Cross, plus our own works. Apparently, the Cross alone is insufficient to bring about healing, deliverance, receiving provision, and answered prayer. Their teaching is if we want to receive, we must live completely upright and engage in much spiritual discipline. This undermines the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice, supplementing Christ's work with our own.

  I have actually heard ministers teach that our behavior is the measure God used to bless us. That if our act isn't just right, God won't heal us. If healing, blessings, provision, and answered prayer are contingent upon the believer's behavior then what is the purpose of the Cross?

 The Old Covenant functioned in this way. The children of Israel did offer sacrifice for their sins annually, but they had to obey the Law to be blessed and healed. They had their work to do and Moses told them if they weren't following the Law then they wouldn't be healed and blessed. 

 The Cross of Jesus reveals the new and living way to receive from God. The Old Covenant was following Moses, sacrificial offerings, and our behavior as the means to receive from God. The New Covenant is Jesus plus nothing. 

I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain Galatians 2:21 NKJV

 Do we really believe it's Jesus plus nothing? When I pray for healing, in whose name am I asking to receive healing? Jesus' name or my own?

 Most would say well, Jesus, of course. Yet, when religious mixture of Law and Grace lists rules and precepts we must do so we can receive, we are not actually asking in Jesus' name any longer. We may be verbally saying in Jesus' name, but in reality, we are actually asking in our own name. 

 We are, in essence, saying to the Father, see God, I have done this and that and kept these rules here, now can I be healed? When we do this, we are unwittingly demanding the Father to base our answers to prayer, receiving healing and provision on our personal achievements, work, performance, and behavior. This is perhaps why some fail to receive.

 We want to reign in life not live defeated and not receiving from God. To reign in life means walking in Christ's victory for us—victory over sin, sickness, lack, and every form of bondage. It is living boldly, knowing we are deeply loved, fully forgiven, and richly provided for through Jesus. We can only reign when we receive the abundant Grace of God. 

So, let us stop striving and start receiving. Let us boldly lay hold of the abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness, knowing that Jesus has already accomplished everything for us. His victory is our victory; His life is our life. We don’t reign by earning or achieving—we reign by believing and receiving. 

 Grace invites us to step out of fear and failure into the fullness of God’s favor, provision, healing, and love. The Cross is proof that it’s never about what we do but about what Jesus has already done. Through Him, we reign—not as slaves burdened by the weight of performance, but as kings walking in the light of His finished work. Grace is the key to reigning in life—receive it, walk in it, and reign boldly today!


Image by Helena Chyprina from Pixabay

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

Living the Victorious Christian Life: Words


But thanks be to God, Who gives us the victory [making us conquerors] through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 corinthians 15:57 AMPC

But thanks be to God, who is always leading us in triumph in · Christ, and through us is making known the fragrance of the knowledge of him in every place. 2 Corinthians 2:14 MOUNCE

 Who doesn't like winning? We wouldn't follow a sports team very long if all they did was lose every single game they played. It's the same in the spiritual arena. In Christ, we have reason to celebrate. We who have received the free gift of Grace are now victors in this life. We are winners, champions, and triumphant, all because of Jesus.

 Living a life of victory is what Christ provided for us in this life as well as the one to come. He has given us the provision, tools, and keys, if you will, to be victorious in life. Delving into this victorious life, we have seen wisdom, hope, and Faith as important factors in living victorious lives. 

 Today, I want to go further into these areas by looking at the words we speak daily;

For the word of a king is authoritative and powerful, And who will say to him, “What are you doing?” Ecclesiastes 8:4 AMP

 Words are powerful and creative. Words are containers. They either contain life, goodness, Grace, and Faith or death, cursing, unbelief, and condemnation. In desiring to live victoriously, we must ask ourselves what are we speaking? What are we saying?

 Most believers are familiar with the passage in Proverbs that says death and life are in the power of the tongue. What is more powerful is reading it in the context of the previous verse. 

From the fruit of a man's mouth is his belly satisfied, From the increase of his lips he is satisfied. Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those loving it eat its fruit. Proverbs 18:20-21 YLT

 Words continually spoken reveal where we are in our thinking and what we have been feeding on consistently. Words of doubt, fear, worry, and anxiety show that we are feeding on and giving attention to the symptoms, the problem, the lack, and the current circumstances we face. 

 It's not that we should ignore what we are going through. It's not that we should pretend nothing is wrong or deny what is happening or what we face. Walking in victory means we shift our focus, thinking, and belief onto God's provision and promise. 

 Look at an athletic event for example of what I am speaking of. Say it's the 4th quarter with 5 minutes left to play and the team is down 14 points. Does this mean it's over? No hope of winning the game? 

 That depends on what the players and coaches are giving attention to. If they only see the deficit on the scoreboard, the abilities of the opposing defense, and their own deficiencies, they will not overcome the odds. Champions look not at the circumstances but at the possibilities of victory. 

 In other words, they have hope, they don't quit. They have positive expectations to overcome the deficit. They exercise wisdom in calling and executing plays. They believe they can and they act on their belief and go for it. 

 So what are we feeding on? What are we giving attention to? If we feed on the Word of Christ, what He has done, what He has provided, and what the Father promises, our beliefs and thinking begin to align with what is written and what He accomplished. Our words then begin to agree with God and not disagree with Him.

 We can talk ourselves out of the promises and provisions of God. I know that cuts cross grain the hyper-sovereignty view so many preach about God. This is not God withholding from us. This is not God saying no I won't bless you now because of poor performance. 

 This is us disagreeing with God and unwittingly telling Him no. He will not override our will. Jesus said out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. 

 Words are a powerful force in the universe. God created the whole universe by speaking to it. Faith and confession, or agreement, are inseparable truths. Faith is released by words. We got saved by words spoken. Now we didn't cause the salvation but words made it real in our lives. 

 By faith [that is, with an inherent trust and enduring confidence in the power, wisdom and goodness of God] we understand that the worlds (universe, ages) were framed and created [formed, put in order, and equipped for their intended purpose] by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things which are visible. Hebrews 11:3 AMP

 Our words are framing our own world. If we agree or disagree with God, we will see our lives framed by that which we speak. If we believe He holds our sins against us and speak that out, our lives will be framed with guilt, shame, inferiority, and condemnation. On the other hand, if we agree with God that we are forever forgiven and made Righteous, our lives will be framed with peace, confidence, and freedom.

 Faith's confession agrees with the reality that Grace already made. Faith's confession creates that reality in our own life. Speaking in alignment with Christ and the promises of the Father frames our world with Faith, hope, victory, and wholeness in every area of life.

 Abram spoke in agreement with God and manifested the promise. God changed his name to Abraham. That means father of a multitude. He called him the father of a multitude when he currently wasn't. Abraham kept agreeing with God, calling himself the father of a multitude, and soon after Isaac was born. 

 So let me ask what are you saying? The Word doesn't let the weak say I am weak. it says to let the weak say I am strong. What are you saying? 

 "God can't forgive me, I have sinned so terribly."

 "God won't forgive me this time, I have committed this sin once too often!"

 "There is no way God can help me. This situation is impossible."

  "I can't receive healing, this is incurable."

 "God can't provide for me, this is too big for even God."

 In summation, words are one of the most powerful forces in the universe. Let's add our agreement with the Grace of God, the Finished Work of Christ, and God's Word. Let's speak out in agreement with God and not the situation. Let's consider Jesus and the Father's great Love for us and not the problem. Let's embrace the victorious Christian life with the words we speak. 

 I declare victory, hope, healing, power, and blessing over every area of your life in Jesus' name. 


Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

Tuesday, November 12, 2024

Living the Victorious Christian Life: Faith

 


But thanks be to God, Who gives us the victory [making us conquerors] through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 corinthians 15:57 AMPC

But thanks be to God, who is always leading us in triumph in · Christ, and through us is making known the fragrance of the knowledge of him in every place. 2 Corinthians 2:14 MOUNCE 

 What comes to mind when you hear the word "victory"? Maybe it’s when your favorite sports team wins or a long-standing problem finally gets resolved. Victory brings a sense of relief, joy, and fulfillment when challenges are overcome.

 The Good News of Jesus Christ is that in Him, we have victory—not just occasionally, but as an ongoing part of our lives. Through His work on the cross, He has equipped us with everything we need to live victoriously. As we delve into living the victorious Christian life, we’ve seen how wisdom and hope empower us. Today, we’ll explore another vital key: Faith.

 For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world— our faith. 1 John 5:4 NKJV

 Faith is the foundation for walking triumphantly. Now, Faith is not merely what denomination you belong to or the religious belief system you hold to. Let's define Faith so we are on the same page.

 A simple definition and understanding of faith is being fully persuaded. Persuaded of what? That God is a Good Father and is for us, not against us. In essence, it's having a good opinion of God. 

 More precisely defined Faith is the assurance, the conviction, the "title deed" of the things we hope for (positively expect for), being the proof of things we do not see, the conviction of their reality, Faith perceiving, fully assured, as real fact what is not yet revealed to the senses. This is a detailed definition and understanding of Faith.

  I believe this definition beautifully captures the essence of Faith as described in Hebrews 11:1—Faith is "the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." The perspective that Faith is a "title deed" is powerful because it emphasizes that Faith is our legal, spiritual claim to what grace has already provided. When we have Faith, we’re holding the title deed to promises and realities that may not yet be visible in the physical realm but are assured in the spiritual realm.

Building on this, Faith is our confident trust in God’s character, promises, and His Finished Work through Jesus. Faith is a fully persuaded heart that embraces what God has already done by grace, even when our senses or circumstances don’t yet align with it. It’s a stance of inner certainty, holding onto God’s truth as more real than any other reality.

 In practice, Faith operates from a place of rest and expectation, not striving or uncertainty. It is the active assurance that what God has promised is not just possible but certain, and we live in accordance with that conviction. When we "speak in Faith," we're not trying to manifest something new; we're simply releasing into our lives what has already been accomplished in the spiritual realm through grace.

 Faith is not about earning or striving. Yes, there is an effort in Faith, but the effort is not about earning or attempting to gain something from God as payment for our doing, our performing, or our works. The fight of Faith is to rest in what He has already accomplished.

 Walking by Faith is key to living victoriously in this life. We have a positive expectation of good because of Jesus' Finished Work. His triumphant work of redemption brings us hope. Faith is what gives substance to that which we hope for. Without hope there is nothing for Faith to give substance to. Without Faith, what we hope for is merely wishful thinking because we have nothing to give substance to our expectations. 

 Faith is not moved by time, by circumstance, or how we feel. Faith declares God's Word is true. God's Word isn't true because I feel it or experience it. God's Word is true because God said it. Faith having a good opinion of God, is fully persuaded that His Word is true regardless of experience, and because it is true, we will experience it in our personal lives. 

 Faith is not "blind faith." Faith is not a fantasy or fairy tale. Faith is rooted in what Jesus has done, what He has procured, purchased, and provided for in the Finished Work of redemption. 

 Faith comes by hearing the Word of Christ Jesus. The more we hear about Jesus, the more Faith comes. The more we continue to hear and act like what He said and has done for us is true and actively believe for His provision to manifest, the more our Faith grows and develops.    

 Faith is the victory that overcomes the world. That is whatever is contrary to Grace, to redemption, to the Finished Work, to His Love, His Goodness, Faith is what overcomes that. Faith is the victory! 

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Sunday, November 3, 2024

Living the Victorious Christian Life: Hope


But thanks be to God, Who gives us the victory [making us conquerors] through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 corinthians 15:57 AMPC

But thanks be to God, who is always leading us in triumph in · Christ, and through us is making known the fragrance of the knowledge of him in every place. 2 Corinthians 2:14 MOUNCE 

 Victory, who doesn't enjoy winning? In this life, our sports team, our hand at cards, or our bowling league, or our company softball team may not always win. The good news is Jesus has won the complete and total victory for us in His work of Redemption.  

 We are starting a new study, examining truths we must know to practically walk out the Christian life victoriously. We must renew our minds to the spiritual realities and truths that are ours in Him to walk in victory. In the first study, we saw how receiving wisdom is key to walking victoriously.

 Today, let's talk about hope, an essential ingredient for living victoriously. Hope isn’t just a “maybe” or a “wishful thinking” mindset; it’s a positive expectation of God’s goodness. Hope is like a goal-setter or the target Faith aims for.  Faith gives substance to hope. If there is no hope, there is nothing for Faith to give substance to.  Without hope, there’s nothing for faith to bring into reality!

   3 And not only this, but we also celebrate in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance;4and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope5and 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. Romans 5:3-5 NASB

 Hope keeps us strong and resilient in adversity, reminding us that no trial is forever and that God’s victory will manifest. Victory is ours in this life and the one to come, regardless of what we’re going through. Hope is that steady anchor that keeps us grounded. 

 Without hope, what do we hold onto? Many people who don’t know Christ try to anchor themselves in their own abilities, wealth, or connections. But even these can fail. Friends and connections can let us down; worldly possessions and influences can be lost in a fallen world. True hope—the kind that’s sure and unwavering—is found in Christ alone.

 Our hope in Jesus is the assurance that God is unfailingly good and that He will never forget or abandon us. Scripture calls hope our “anchor”: 

This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil, Hebrews 6:19 NASB

  Hope anchors us during life’s storms, holding us steady when waves of adversity and opposition try to knock us off course. With this hope, we can fully trust in the Lord—our Helper and our Refuge in every season.

 Hope anchors our souls. That is our mind, will, and emotions. When we face adversity or the storms of life, we can remain steady in our thinking and emotions. No matter what it feels like, hope brings steadiness.

 So often, religious traditions have conditioned us to have a “reverse hope,” a negative expectation programming us to expect loss, struggle, or disappointment. But true hope, found in Jesus, says that despite living in a fallen world, we can have a confident expectation of good. Because of Jesus, we can expect blessings, not because we deserve them, but because of His grace. 

This confidence springs from what He accomplished for us; it’s the beauty of the Gospel of Grace. The Cross and Jesus’ finished work gives us an everlasting, unshakeable hope that cannot be swayed or eroded by life’s trials.

 In summation, Let’s embrace this victorious life Jesus has given us, firmly anchored in the unwavering hope of His goodness and faithfulness. As we hold onto this hope, we’re continually reminded that no matter what comes, He is with us, working on our behalf, guiding us, and bringing us into His perfect victory!



Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

Tuesday, October 15, 2024

Living the Victorious Christian Life

 


But thanks be to God, Who gives us the victory [making us conquerors] through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 corinthians 15:57 AMPC

But thanks be to God, who is always leading us in triumph in · Christ, and through us is making known the fragrance of the knowledge of him in every place. 2 Corinthians 2:14 MOUNCE

"Victory! Who doesn’t love the thrill of winning, the joy of a hard-fought triumph? Whether in sports, life, or faith, we all want to experience the elation of victory. When our team wins, we erupt with joy, shouting, high-fiving, and savoring the victory. But when we lose, even though we may be good sports, the sting of defeat lingers. We all crave that feeling of winning—whether in sports or in life.

  But here’s the best part: as Christians, we don’t have to wonder whether we’ll win or lose. In Christ, the victory has already been secured. Every day, no matter the challenges we face, we can walk in triumph because of what Jesus accomplished on the cross. 

Victory in Christ!

 Jesus has already won the ultimate victory through His finished work on the cross. He became the curse for us, fully redeeming us from the curse of the Law. His triumph over sin, death, and the enemy is final—and that victory is ours to live in every day.

 Through Christ, we are more than a conqueror. We are not victims but victors in Him. Throughout the New Covenant, we see the keys and the truths we must know to live a victorious Christian life.  

 As always, we must be clear, we are in the New Covenant. I am not inferring there are rules we must keep or tasks we must complete to receive something from God. I’m talking about the principles and truths of the New Creation. When we walk in these, we experience the fullness of our new identity in Christ, leading to a life of victory. Let's begin looking at the victorious overcoming Christian life. 

 As believers, we're called to live a victorious, overcoming life, Jesus and New Covenant writers like Paul, and Peter offer us profound insights into how to walk in triumph while we’re still here on Earth. One foundational truth for living victoriously is wisdom—knowing how to navigate life with godly discernment and making choices that align with God’s plan.

 The Good News is Jesus is our wisdom;

Instead, credit God with your new situation: you are united with Jesus the Anointed. He is God’s wisdom for us and more. He is our righteousness and holiness and redemption. 1 Corinthians 1:30 VOICE

  The amazing truth is that Jesus is our wisdom! Through our union with Him, we have access to the boundless wisdom of God, the Creator of all things. And this wisdom isn’t just for spiritual insights—it’s practical. It applies to every decision, every challenge, and every moment of our daily lives.

 Walk in His Wisdom

 Wisdom gives us the ability to apply knowledge. It is God's knowledge and the know-how to apply it to whatever we face. James tells us we can ask God for wisdom, and He will hear and answer our prayers for wisdom.

 Take note that James didn't teach us to strive for wisdom. He didn't teach that we must earn wisdom. He didn't teach if we perform well enough, God will give us wisdom. No, he said all we must do is believe and not waver. 

 We all need wisdom to manage our possessions and finances better. We all need wisdom when it comes to our health and longevity, not falling prey to fad diets and pills or schemes that supposedly will make us lose fat and be healthier. We all need wisdom to follow God's plan and purpose for our lives and not follow bad counsel or unsound advice. 

 Again, this wisdom has been made available to us through our union with Christ. We can ask and receive wisdom. We can walk wisely in this world knowing as we trust in Him, bring our concerns to Him, and follow His leading, He will direct us toward the right paths.      

  In Christ, we are called to live as overcomers—victorious, triumphant, and filled with the abundant life Jesus promised. But what does this look like practically? It’s easy to say we are overcomers, but when the storms of life hit—when finances are tight, when relationships strain, or when sickness arises—it can be challenging to see ourselves as victorious. 

 Yet, this is precisely when we must lean on the truth of who we are in Christ. We are not defined by our circumstances but by our union with Jesus. Growing in Grace and the knowledge of Jesus is key to walking this victorious overcoming life in our daily life. 

 As we deepen our understanding of Christ’s victory, our faith strengthens, enabling us to stand firm in trials. Through Christ, we are empowered to overcome, not by our strength, but by His grace working through us. The victorious life is one of continual growth in faith, grace, and the assurance of His love and promises.

Image by Peggy und Marco Lachmann-Anke from Pixabay


Monday, October 7, 2024

Thinking God's Thoughts on tradition



Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT

 In the modern Church, many believers find themselves grappling with the difference between tradition and truth—and the stakes are high. Jesus warned about the danger of holding on to traditions that make the Word of God “of no effect.”  Many believers cling to comfortable traditions, yet these traditions are often void of the supernatural power of God, reducing Faith to nothing more than ritualistic intellectualism and salvation and right standing and acceptance with God based on performance or good works and behavior. 

 Jesus Himself warned us of this danger, saying, “You nullify the Word of God by your tradition” (Mark 7:13). But what exactly is this tradition doing? It’s stripping the gospel of its power and shifting the focus from the miraculous life Jesus promised to a powerless religion of human effort and man-inspired intellectualism. 

 This study will challenge traditional beliefs that dismiss the supernatural, reduce the Holy Spirit's power to an ancient event, and make believers settle for mediocrity rather than the abundant life of Faith, healing, prosperity, and grace that God’s Word clearly offers.

Tradition: Faith in Human Experience, Not the Holy Spirit

  Religious tradition thrives on the comfort of predictability. It dismisses the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit as either an ancient phenomenon or something only for “certain times” or “special people.” In this mindset, the Gifts of the Holy Spirit—healing, prophecy, miracles—are not for the average believer but are neatly packaged away as part of church history. This intellectualized version of Christianity tells believers that God works more through natural means than by supernatural power today.

 However, this directly contradicts the New Testament. The early Church, empowered by the Holy Spirit, turned the world upside down through miracles, healings, and signs. Why would these manifestations cease if the Holy Spirit hasn’t changed (Hebrews 13:8)? The truth is, the Holy Spirit’s power is just as available now as it was then.

 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8 NLT

 The traditional mindset, however, is rooted in unbelief, not Scripture. Rather than allowing the Holy Spirit to move, many prefer a religion they can control and explain. It’s easier to intellectualize the faith, relying on tradition and human effort, rather than yielding to the supernatural power of God.

Religious tradition often presents a comfortable version of Christianity. It’s familiar, non-confrontational, and safe. But this safety comes at a cost. Tradition frequently dismisses or explains away the supernatural aspects of God’s Word—healing, prosperity, and miraculous provision—as “outdated” or no longer relevant.

One reason for this is intellectualism: the tendency to rationalize everything through human understanding and experience. For instance, many Christians look at sickness, poverty, or suffering in their own lives (or the lives of others) and assume that these experiences reflect God’s will. After all, if God is sovereign, He must be allowing these hardships, right? But that’s a dangerous leap, one that directly conflicts with the character of God as revealed in Jesus Christ.

Healing and Prosperity: Not Fringe but Foundational Truths

 One of the most contested topics in traditional Christianity is the concept of healing and prosperity. Traditional Christians argue, “If healing and prosperity are part of God’s promises, why are there sick Christians? Why are there poor Christians around the world?”

 The issue isn’t whether believers experience sickness or poverty, but whether these conditions align with God’s will. The Bible is clear—healing and prosperity are part of the promises given to us through Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit is the One who brings those promises into reality.

 Healing: Always God’s Will

The traditional argument that "sometimes God wills sickness" or "God is using this for His glory" directly opposes the truth of Scripture. Sickness is part of the curse, and Jesus redeemed us from the curse (Galatians 3:13). Healing is not something God occasionally doles out—Jesus already paid for it.

- Isaiah 53:5: "By His stripes, we are healed."

- Psalm 103:2-3: "Praise the Lord, O my soul... who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases."

Sickness never came from God—it was never part of His original design for humanity. Jesus healed all who came to Him, not a selective few. Why would His will change today? Healing is a Bible truth, not a fringe doctrine.

 A core issue with tradition is that it allows experience to override Scripture. When believers don’t see the promises of healing, prosperity, or the Gifts of the Spirit manifesting in their lives or in church gatherings, tradition is quick to offer an explanation: “Maybe it’s not God’s will for you.” However, this perspective puts the focus on human experience rather than what God’s Word declares.

 Jesus never taught that sickness was from God, or that poverty was a sign of spiritual growth. In fact, He healed all who came to Him, provided miraculously, and demonstrated God’s will on earth as it is in heaven.

  • John 10:10: Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”
  • Hebrews 13:8: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” If Jesus healed, provided, and performed miracles in the past, He still does today.

 Tradition says, “We don’t see these things happening, so they must have ceased.” Truth says, “God’s Word declares these things; our experience needs to rise to the level of His promises.”

 Prosperity: More Than Enough to Fulfill God's Purpose

 Tradition often scoffs at the concept of prosperity, dismissing it as a doctrine of excess.They say If God promises health and provision, why are believers around the world still struggling? Yet, Biblical prosperity is not about becoming a millionaire; it’s about having more than enough to fulfill God’s purpose in your life. God’s promise of prosperity is about sufficiency in all things. The focus is on abundant provision for every good work, not luxury for selfish gain. 

- 2 Corinthians 9:8: "And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work."

- Philippians 4:19: "And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."

 Traditionalists point to impoverished nations or struggling Christians and claim, “Prosperity isn’t for everyone.” Again, prosperity isn’t about a specific lifestyle; it’s about having the resources you need to carry out God’s will in your life. Whether you live in a wealthy nation or a poor one, God’s provision is real, and it is supernatural. God is God over all the Earth not just first world nations. 

 Tradition Prefers Works Over Grace

 A key marker of tradition is the constant emphasis on works over grace. Despite the overwhelming evidence in Scripture that we are saved and blessed by grace through faith, tradition insists on adding works-based requirements to maintain favor with God. The Holy Spirit, however, is a Spirit of grace, leading believers into the rest of God (Hebrews 4:3). Jesus has finished the work—our job is to believe it.

- Ephesians 2:8-9: "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast."

- Galatians 3:3: "Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh?"

Many traditional teachings place heavy burdens on believers to perform certain acts to gain God’s approval. Yet the truth of the gospel is this: Jesus has already accomplished it all. Our part is to believe and receive by faith.

Challenging Tradition: The Need for a Renewed Mind

  Breaking free from tradition requires a renewed mind. Many believers are trapped in tradition because they have never experienced the truth of the Word in its fullness. Romans 12:2 urges believers to "be transformed by the renewing of your mind." This transformation is key to moving from intellectual Christianity—rooted in traditions of men—into the dynamic, supernatural life of faith empowered by the Holy Spirit.

 Tradition keeps believers in a safe but spiritually stagnant place. It resists the supernatural, explains away the promises of God, and denies the fullness of the Holy Spirit’s work today. But the truth is clear—God’s power is still available, His promises are still “Yes and Amen” (2 Corinthians 1:20), and the Holy Spirit is the very life-force of the Church.

 The Word of God and the Holy Spirit are the final authority—not tradition, not human intellect, and not our experiences. As believers, we must be willing to challenge the traditions that have held us back from experiencing the fullness of the supernatural, Holy Spirit-empowered life Jesus promised.Truth will always triumph over tradition, and the Holy Spirit is ready to demonstrate God’s power in your life—if you’re willing to believe.

Image by BAO YI WONG from Pixabay

Wednesday, September 25, 2024

Thinking God's thoughts on Righteousness


Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT

 Renewing the mind—this powerful concept stirs up a whirlwind of ideas across the Body of Christ. But is it really the daunting, complex task many make it out to be? Is it some deep, unreachable principle reserved for only the spiritual elite?

 The beauty of our walk with God lies in its simplicity. Like every other aspect of our salvation and relationship with our Good Father, renewing the mind is far from complicated. It’s about aligning our thoughts with God's thoughts. It’s about agreeing with His Word, and letting His truth reshape how we see ourselves and the world around us.

 We do this by feasting on God’s Word, learning to rightly divide between the Old and New Covenants, and gaining a deeper revelation of all that Jesus accomplished for us through His victorious redemption. The key to living a life of victory is to come into agreement with God! When we start thinking God's thoughts—rather than those shaped by the world, culture, or tradition—we step into the fullness of the abundant life He’s always intended for us.

 Let’s hit the reset button on how we see Righteousness. It’s time to see it the way God does—as a pure gift, not something we can earn or work hard enough to achieve. Righteousness isn’t some spiritual trophy we get for being "good enough." It’s a lavish gift straight from God’s heart!

 Here’s where traditional religion misses the mark: it teaches that Righteousness must be earned as if we can somehow measure up on our own. But the truth is so much better! Righteousness is a Gift we receive not a work we achieve. Righteousness is not a reward for good behavior—it’s a divine exchange. Jesus took on our sinfulness, and in return, He gave us His perfect Righteousness. 

And since we now have His Righteousness, it means that as believers, our righteousness isn’t even our own—it’s fully Christ’s! Think about it: if it's Christ’s Righteousness that we have been given, then we stand as Righteous as Jesus Himself! That’s the astonishing reality of this incredible gift, and it’s time we live with the confidence that comes from knowing we are just as Righteous as our Savior!

 Imagine this: every single benefit, every blessing, and all the access that Jesus Himself has with the Father—we have that same access in Him! We are not half-loved, half-approved, or half-accepted. No, the Father loves us just as much as He loves Jesus! We are fully accepted, completely approved, and unconditionally loved—just like Jesus!

 Now, if we really grabbed hold of this truth, it would completely change how we approach our relationship with God. We wouldn't dive into spiritual disciplines hoping to be found worthy, accepted, or approved by Him. Let’s be clear—effort in our relationship with God is valuable, but it’s not about earning His favor or love. God is all for effort (in relationship), but He’s absolutely against striving to earn what’s already ours. There’s a big difference between pursuing Him out of love and performing to earn something that was freely given.

 Here’s where our minds need serious renewal: when it comes to the Gift of Righteousness, this is the very thing that makes us fully accepted and approved by the Father. Righteousness isn’t just a label—it’s a life-altering truth! It means we are forever free from condemnation. No more guilt, no more shame hanging over us like a dark cloud.

 Condemnation is the voice of the enemy, a relentless lie that tries to suffocate believers with guilt, shame, and feelings of unworthiness. Condemnation whispers, "You’ve messed up too many times. God is done with you." It says, "You deserve to be punished for all your failures, your sins, and your mistakes." But that’s nothing but a soul-crushing lie from the pit of hell!

When condemnation tries to creep in, we need to stand firm and declare the truth: we are the Righteousness of God in Christ Jesus! No more condemnation. No more expecting punishment. Why? Because in Christ, we have been set free from condemnation forever. We are accepted and approved, not because of our own actions or efforts, but because of what Jesus has done for us.

 This Righteousness is a divine gift—a gift that allows us to stand in the presence of God without the slightest hint of guilt, shame, or inferiority. It’s the gift of absolute freedom from condemnation, the gift of perfect acceptance with the Father. Let this sink in: you are as accepted, loved, and approved as Jesus Himself. Now that’s a truth worth celebrating!

 Walking in victory is closely tied to thinking the same way God thinks. We walk in a greater measure of peace, a sense of wholeness, and joy when our thinking comes into alignment with God's. When it comes to Righteousness we must remember it is a gift, not something we can achieve. Embrace this radical truth, we are just as accepted, approved, loved, and Righteous as Jesus our Lord. 




Image courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net