Category Archives: GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING

GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING, What is “chambering?”

What is “chambering?”

WHAT IS “CHAMBERING?”

by Shawn Brasseaux

Turning to Romans 13:13, we read: “Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.” What exactly is “chambering?”

We start by reading its context: “[11] And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. [12] The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. [13] Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. [14] But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.” Whatever “chambering” is, we can at least see that it is in a negative setting. It is evil, something the Christian should avoid. Verse 12 says it is a “work of darkness,” and verse 14 calls it a “lust of the flesh” (sin).

“Chambering” is one of the King James Bible’s archaic words. However, there is no need to despair or throw up our hands in confusion and defeat! If we consult an English dictionary, we learn that “chamber” is an ancient word for a private room, especially a bedroom. Sometimes, in older contexts, we come across the related term “bedchamber.” Is this the proper interpretation of Romans 13:13? Well, it is close. We need to further refine our understanding though. This is where a Greek dictionary can assist us. Koite (κοίτη) is the term underlying “chambering.” Strong’s has the following entry: “G2845 κοίτη koítē, koy’-tay; from G2749; a couch; by extension, cohabitation; by implication, the male sperm:—bed, chambering, ×conceive.” In passing, we can comment that it is connected to the Greek word meaning, “to lie outstretched.”

Not counting Romans 13:13, koite occurs precisely three times in the King James Greek New Testament text:

  • Luke 11:7: “And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed [koite] I cannot rise and give thee.” (This, of course, would simply be a parent resting with his children. There is nothing inherently wrong with this.)
  • Romans 9:10: “And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived [koite] by one, even by our father Isaac;” (A sexual connection is certainly implied here—appropriate intimate relations between a husband and wife.)
  • Hebrews 13:4: “Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed [koite] undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.” (This too is a sexual connection, along the lines of Romans 9:10 above. There is nothing sinful here either, as it also is confined to marriage.)

It is in the case of Romans 13:13, however, that koite carries a sinful meaning. “Chambering,” as it sits in that verse, is outside of marriage. It is not an innocent resting on a couch or bed either (as in Luke 11:7). Instead of the proper term “chambering,” we would say, informally: “shacking up,” “bed-hopping,” “living together,” “sleeping around.” Fornication, adultery, and prostitution are related here. Additionally, the idea of chambering goes beyond women. Men can be guilty of it too. Consider the slang terms “baby momma” and “baby daddy” used in contemporary English. When a woman has children for a man who is not her husband or current partner, she is his “baby momma.” Or, when a man has children with a woman who is not his wife or current partner, he is her “baby daddy.” While not tasteful examples, they are all excellent illustrations of modern-day “chambering.”

Rather than jumping around from partner to partner—moving from “bedroom to bedroom”—the lustful Christian needs to find a spouse. The Christian man is to find and marry a Christian woman; the Christian woman is to find and marry a Christian man. First Corinthians chapter 7 goes into great detail about marriage in the Dispensation of Grace. Marriage and fidelity therein are the keys to avoiding sexual sins, including “chambering!”

“And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof”
(Romans 13:11-14).

Also see:
» What is “wantonness?”
» Does “walking in the Spirit” mean the same thing as “living in the Spirit?”
» Does God see us Christians as sinners?

GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING, SIN, What are some verses to help me stop focusing on myself?, What are some verses to help me stop focusing on myself?

What are some verses to help me stop focusing on myself?

WHAT ARE SOME VERSES TO HELP ME STOP FOCUSING ON MYSELF?

by Shawn Brasseaux

Christian friend, your flesh (sin) is controlling you. You need to overcome it by walking in the Spirit: “And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit” (Galatians 5:24-25). The following verses will allow the Holy Spirit to renew your mind (Romans 12:1-2; Ephesians 4:23; Colossians 3:9-10), which will then shift focus from you to the Lord Jesus Christ. You need to prayerfully memorize portions of the following Scriptures, or at least have these verses/references ready when you focus on yourself.

The Christian life is exactly how Jesus Christ lived while He was on Earth. It was constant dependence on, faith in, what His Heavenly Father had instructed Him to do and say. He was never self-consumed, so neither should we.

Hebrews chapter 10: “[7] Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God. [8] Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law; [9] Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second.” (This, of course, is Christ’s words to Father God concerning Calvary.)

Matthew 26:39: “And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.” Mark 14:36: “And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt.” Luke 22:42: “Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.” (This too, of course, is Christ’s words to Father God concerning Calvary.)

John 4:34: “Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.” John 6:38: “For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.” John 7:16: “Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.” John 9:4: “I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.”

Jesus Christ was always looking to accomplish His Heavenly Father’s will rather than His own. He was conscience of the fact that He was on Earth to serve His Father rather than Himself. Ultimately, He served His Father by preaching to and then dying for sinners (in perfect accordance with His Father’s will).

Philippians 2:1-8: “[1] If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, [2] Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. [3] Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. [4] Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. [5] Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: [6] Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: [7] But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: [8] And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”

Watch now how Jesus Christ manifested His life through the Apostle Paul.

First Corinthians 15:10: “But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.” (Paul knew it was because of God’s grace that he was what he was. His religious works had gotten him nowhere. Christ Jesus working on his behalf [at Calvary], as well in and through him in ministry, was the issue.) Second Corinthians 4:5: “For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.” The focus was not Paul but Jesus Christ! Colossians 1:27-29: “…Christ in you, the hope of glory: Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” Paul preached Christ Jesus, not himself! He worked in ministry according to Christ’s working.

Philippians 3:1-9: “[1] Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. [2] Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. [3] For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. [4] Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: [5] Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; [6] Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. [7] But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. [8] Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, [9] And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:….” (As a lost/unsaved man, Paul had been religious, focused on self, self-righteous. He had given that up when trusted Jesus Christ. Now, he has no confidence in his flesh’s performance. He relies by faith in Christ’s performance and Christ’s righteousness! A sure way to focus on yourself is to labor under the Mosaic Law—religion/legalism. A sure way to focus on Christ Jesus is to remember the message of grace!)

If there will be any boasting, it will be in Christ and it will because of Christ, not because of something we have done. First Corinthians 1:30-31: “[30] But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: [31] That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.” Remember, Romans 3:26-28: “[26] To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. [27] Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. [28] Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.” Never can a Christian boast about anything done on his or her part. The only boasting is in the cross of Christ, in what He did for us! Galatians 6:14: “But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.”

Pride, focusing on self, was the original sin of Lucifer before he became Satan, the Devil. Ezekiel 28:17 is God speaking to Lucifer: “Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness: I will cast thee to the ground, I will lay thee before kings, that they may behold thee.” God also said in Isaiah chapter 14: “[12] How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! [13] For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: [14] I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High.”

Hence, in 1 Timothy 3:6, one of the qualifications of a bishop, a church overseer, is that he not be new to Christian (grace) doctrine. “Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.” These are all wonderful verses to help us remember, “yet not I, but Christ!”

SUPPLEMENTAL: CHRIST AVOIDED ATTENTION WHILE ON EARTH

When Jesus Christ saw that His miracles drew too much attention to Him, He left the area as quickly as possible. He wanted His Heavenly Father to be praised instead. Notice the following samples:

  • Matthew 9:8-9: “But when the multitudes saw it, they marvelled, and glorified God, which had given such power unto men. And as Jesus passed forth from thence….
  • Matthew 9:26-27: “And the fame hereof went abroad into all that land. And when Jesus departed thence,….”
  • Mark 1:28-29: “And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all the region round about Galilee. And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John.”
  • Mark 1:45: “But he went out, and began to publish it much, and to blaze abroad the matter, insomuch that Jesus could no more openly enter into the city, but was without in desert places: and they came to him from every quarter.”
  • Mark 2:12-13: “And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion. And he went forth again by the sea side; and all the multitude resorted unto him, and he taught them.”
  • Mark 3:9-13: “And he spake to his disciples, that a small ship should wait on him because of the multitude, lest they should throng him. For he had healed many; insomuch that they pressed upon him for to touch him, as many as had plagues. And unclean spirits, when they saw him, fell down before him, and cried, saying, Thou art the Son of God. And he straitly charged them that they should not make him known. And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him whom he would: and they came unto him.”
  • Mark 5:20-21: “And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel. And when Jesus was passed over again by ship unto the other side, much people gathered unto him: and he was nigh unto the sea.”
  • Luke 4:37-38: “And the fame of him went out into every place of the country round about. And he arose out of the synagogue, and entered into Simon’s house….”
  • Luke 5:24-27: “But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon earth to forgive sins, (he said unto the sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy couch, and go into thine house. And immediately he rose up before them, and took up that whereon he lay, and departed to his own house, glorifying God. And they were all amazed, and they glorified God, and were filled with fear, saying, We have seen strange things to day. And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me.”

Also see:
» How do we not live after the flesh if we live in bodies of flesh?
» Is it truly a good deed if done for selfish reasons?
» Once Christians fall into gross sin will God use them again?

Does God see us Christians as sinners?, GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING

Does God see us Christians as sinners?

DOES GOD SEE US CHRISTIANS AS SINNERS?

by Shawn Brasseaux

To address this question, we must consider two points. Firstly, being a sinner positionally, and, secondly, being a sinner practically.

Romans 5:12-21 says every person in the world falls into one of two categories—lost or saved. Respectively, they are under one of two heads—Adam (natural) or Christ (Christian). We are born into Adam’s family; this is a human’s natural status. We are naturally dead in trespasses and sins, fallen short of God’s glory, alienated from God’s life, and children of wrath. Psalm 51:5 describes a person born into this world: “Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.” Romans 3:23 amplifies: “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;….”

Ephesians 4:17-19 describes the natural man: “[17] This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, [18] Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: [19] Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.”

Ephesians chapter 2 says: “[1] And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; [2] Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: [3] Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.”

In Ephesians 2:1-3, though, we noticed a marked change. There are people here who were (past tense) dead in trespasses and sins. They are no longer worthy of God’s wrath. The God of the Bible has “quickened” them, given them spiritual life and energy to function as He intended. Keep reading in the chapter to learn exactly what happened to them.

“[4] But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, [5] Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved; ) [6] And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: [7] That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. [8] For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: [9] Not of works, lest any man should boast.”

Ephesians chapter 1 had already said of these individuals: “[4] According as he [God the Father] hath chosen us in him [Jesus Christ] before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: [5] Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, [6] To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.”

While all people are part of Adam’s family, some people are part of God’s family. The difference is the Gospel of the Grace of God, which declares: “For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Through simple faith in Jesus Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection as sufficient payment for their sins, the lost sinner is given God’s life, transferred from Adam to Christ. We are justified, made righteous in God’s sight, because of Jesus’ shed blood on the cross. Again, this is all because of what the Lord Jesus Christ did at Calvary on our behalf. It has nothing whatsoever to do with our religious performance.

Let us continue in Ephesians chapter 1: “[12] That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. [13] In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, [14] Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.”

Upon trusting the Gospel of Grace, we are sealed with the Holy Spirit. That is, God the Holy Spirit baptizes us, or places us, into the Church the body of Christ. First Corinthians 12:13 declares: “For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.” To repeat, we move from being in Adam to being in Christ. Now, we share Christ’s identity: we share the intimate relationship He has with Father God. We are justified, holy, sanctified, loved, and so on. We have all sins totally forgiven forever (Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:14; Colossians 2:13). We are “accepted in the beloved [Christ]” (Ephesians 1:6). Due to sin, God has a controversy with those in Adam (unsaved), and thus can have no relationship with them; however, He has no problem with those in Christ (saved) because their sins have been taken care of at Calvary. Second Corinthians 5:17 says: “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” The believer’s old identity in Adam is gone, and the believer has received a new identity in Christ.

Earlier, we read 1 Corinthians 12:13 that spoke of us being baptized into Jesus Christ, or the Church the Body of Christ. Now focus on verse 12: “For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.” God the Father actually calls all Christians, the Body of Christ, “Christ.” We are so much closely identified with Jesus Christ, our Head, that Father God actually calls us by His only begotten Son’s name! (By the same token, Eve was so closely identified with Adam, her head, that God called both Adam and Eve, “Adam,” according to Genesis 5:1-2.) When God sees us Christians, He sees Christ, for we are in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). Christ is certainly no sinner (2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 7:26; 1 Peter 2:21-22). To answer the question then, God does not see us believers in Christ as sinners. He sees lost/unsaved/non-Christian people as sinners.

We want to be careful to note that while we are in Christ, secure forever, that does not mean that we are free from the Adamic sin nature. Our physical bodies still have Adam’s sinful blood running in them, as they have not yet been redeemed (bought back from sin’s results). Return to Ephesians chapter 1: “[12] That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. [13] In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, [14] Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.” Hone in on the phrase “the redemption of the purchased possession” of verse 14.

Turning to Romans chapter 8, we make a comparison and see amplification:

“[18] For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. [19] For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. [20] For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, 21 Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. [22] For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. [23] And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. [24] For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? [25] But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.”

While we have been redeemed soul and spirit, we are physically un-redeemed. These flesh-and-blood bodies are still subject to the effects of sin. If the Lord tarries, they will grow sick, age, break down, die, and decay. However, at the resurrection—commonly called “the Rapture”—we will receive new glorified bodies. In your own time, please review 1 Corinthians 15:51-58, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, 2 Corinthians 4:16–5:8, and Philippians 3:20-21. This is “the redemption of our body” stressed in Romans 8:23. In Christ, this physical body is crucified (see Romans 6:6 below).

We are not and will never again be sinners positionally; we are permanently in Christ and will never return to being in Adam. Still, we can be sinners practically. While it really is inconsistent with reality, we can choose to let our “old man” influence us on a daily basis. This is sin. We can let our sin nature run us (flesh of man) instead of our new nature in Christ control us (Spirit of God). Watch these issues show up as we now read large passages of Scripture.

Romans chapter 6: “[1] What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? [2] God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? [3] Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? [4] Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

“[5] For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: [6] Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. [7] For he that is dead is freed from sin.

“[8] Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: [9] Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. [10] For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. [11] Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. 

“[12] Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. [13] Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. [14] For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. [15] What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.

“[16] Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? [17] But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. [18] Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. [19] I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness. 

“[20] For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. [21] What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. [22] But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. [23] For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Finally, Romans chapter 8: “[1] There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. [2] For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. [3] For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: [4] That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. [5] For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. [6] For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. [7] Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. [8] So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. [9] But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.”

We could go on and on, but suffice it to say that God sees us as saints rather than sinners. Here is what we need to understand now. Upon reading these verses, do we see ourselves as saints (God’s perspective) or as sinners (man’s perspective)? If we do not allow sound Bible doctrine—grace teaching—to influence our thoughts, then the Spirit of God will not renew our minds (Romans 12:1-2; Ephesians 4:23; Colossians 3:10). We will thus see ourselves as sinners, and we will have no reason to behave like anything but sinners. If we read God’s Word (such as the aforementioned passages), and adopt that perspective though, then we will say, “Sin is not who I am anymore! I am a saint, a new creature in Christ! I am dead indeed to sin, and alive unto God! I need to walk in Christian thinking, maturity, and conduct!”

Christian friend, study Paul’s epistles, Romans through Philemon, to learn more about how the Christian functions. It is impossible to cover all that here in this “short” study. By the way, try especially Romans chapter 12, Ephesians chapter 4, and Colossians chapter 3. If you read and believe them, they will cause you to see yourself as a saint (who you really are)! That will cause you to then live like a saint (who you really are)! After all, that is whom God really sees you as! 🙂

Also see:
» How do we not live after the flesh if we live in bodies of flesh?
» Can you explain Philippians 2:14-16?
» Why do some Christians persistently behave like lost people?

DENOMINATIONS, CULTS, & FALSE TEACHING, DISPENSATIONAL BIBLE STUDY, GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING, Should we hate the denominational people who misled us?, Should we hate the denominational people who misled us?, Should we hate the denominational people who misled us?

Should we hate the denominational people who misled us?

SHOULD WE HATE THE DENOMINATIONAL PEOPLE WHO MISLED US?

by Shawn Brasseaux

As we Pauline dispensationalists, former denominationalists, look back on our prior (?) way of thinking and living, extremely intense emotions surface. We are saddened and discouraged to realize we wasted all that time, money, and energy supporting the traditions of men. We also feel the other extreme—anger and bitterness—because people betrayed our trust, deceived us, and robbed us in the names of “God” and “Jesus Christ.” We hate them, and want to return to “tell them off,” curse them out, and physically fight them! Animosity consumes us as we boil and fume with rage! (You have never been there before, dear friend, huh?) How do we address and correct such attitudes using Scripture?

A CLEAR GOSPEL OF GRACE

Being born into a “Christian” family does not make one a Christian. Joining a local church and attending weekly (or even daily!) services does not make one a Christian. Walking an aisle and getting water baptized does not make one a Christian. Reading the Bible and reciting prayers does not make one a Christian. All these activities and appeals obscure a pure Gospel of Grace. These works push aside the work of Christ on Calvary. Often, everything but faith in the cross of Christ is stressed at “invitation time.” Instead of urge people to trust Jesus Christ as their personal Saviour, preachers stress everything else—cessation of bad habits, weeping and wailing at the “altar” over self-wretchedness, confession of bygone transgressions, “deals” with and promises to God to start living correctly, and so on. The Lord Jesus Christ’s atonement is buried little by little, and the poor lost soul is more confused… and (tragically) just as lost as before!

Thankfully, Father God does not justify us—or make us right in His sight—on the basis of whether or not we can pass theological tests. Neither does He give us righteousness and eternal life because we performed a certain way in religion (rules, regulations, rites, ceremonies, prayers, and confessions). All these erroneous ideas clutter minds and hearts, making it ever so difficult—yea, impossible—to grasp enough Gospel truth upon which faith can rest. This hiding of the Gospel of Grace using religion is just what Satan desires (2 Corinthians 4:3-4)!

God is looking first and foremost for faith, as Hebrews 11:6 says: “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Faith is simply believing what God says to you. Notice the definition of Abraham’s faith as per Romans chapter 4: “[20] He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; [21] And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.” Abraham was “fully persuaded” that “[God] was able also to perform” “what he had promised.” God had promised him a “seed”—a son, and a nation—and Abraham believed that God could and would bring it to pass. Simple!

What is God’s Gospel message to us today on this side of the cross? What is God’s Good News in this the Dispensation of Grace? It is the redemption from and forgiveness of sins found through His Son, Jesus Christ, and His death, burial, and resurrection. God is looking for people who will recognize their sin problem and trust exclusively the remedy of Jesus Christ’s finished crosswork on Calvary. First Corinthians 15:3-4 could not be clearer: “[3] For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; [4] And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:….”

Certainly, soul salvation unto eternal life is predicated upon faith in this, the Gospel of the Grace of God. With that said, only a fraction of denominational “Christians” are saved. Various misconceptions have caused them to greatly misunderstand Bible-believing Christianity. Make no mistake. Denominational “Christians” are not necessarily saved but there are some saved people in “Christian” churches. They trusted a pure Gospel message but then got entangled with some group in which they were defiled by false doctrine. Although deceived, they are still on their way to Heaven (remember, Heaven is for those who have Christ’s righteousness credited to their account, and such righteousness is found in faith in Christ rather than the believer’s theological mix-ups and hang-ups). Then, you have many people in most groups who were never saved at all because they never trusted Christ as their personal Saviour at all. They are still trying to establish their own righteousness with their own works (Romans 10:1-3)—Christ’s finished crosswork not being enough in their eyes.

A CLEAR OUTLOOK OF GRACE

When babes in Christ—not simply new converts to Christ, but also Christians saved for decades and who have not been grounded in Pauline truth—begin to see glimpses of the spiritual light that dispensational Bible study brings, they get excited (and rightly so). Burdens about the Bible text are lifted. The Scriptures are better understood and enjoyed. They see the dispensational distinctions—the layout of the Bible timeline and the various contrasting teachings, hopes, entities, realms, programs, charges, and so on. Still, the danger is that it can become mere mental gymnastics, information to equip one to engage in intellectual speculations, doctrine used to “beat people up” and make them feel like idiots, knowledge used to puff up and exalt oneself. They must understand that doctrine is meant to profit others rather than fight with them.

Some people use right division as nothing more than a platform for petty arguments and fleshly debates. They purpose, not to edify (build up) their audience, but to destroy (tear down) those with whom they disagree. Contrary to grace, they are contentious, ornery, combative, incessantly bickering about this or that issue. Rather than teaching people, they seek to antagonize them. Sadly, not all Pauline dispensationalists are sincere in their ministries. Some use it to harshly criticize others, mock, pick fights, and so on. The Apostle Paul actually had some such belligerent ministry associates. Notice his words in Philippians 1:15-17: “[15] Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will: [16] The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds: [17] But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel.”

Considering the fleshly tendency of those who have a mental assent but not heart faith, those lacking genuine belief in the soul concerning sound Bible study, the Holy Spirit issued the warning of 2 Timothy 2:24-26: “[24] And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, [25] In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; [26] And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.” Preaching the right doctrine in the wrong spirit is well… exhibiting wrong doctrine! Brethren, there must be gentleness, meekness (humility), and friendliness; otherwise, hypocrisy arises (preaching grace but not preaching graciously!!).

The reason why the Holy Spirit issued the principles of grace through Paul is made clear in 1 Timothy 1:3-6: “[3] As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine, [4] Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do. [5] Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned: [6] From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling;….”

Paul asked Timothy to stay in Ephesus so Timothy would order some of them “that they teach no other doctrine, neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies.” “Fables” (religious stories designed to teach lessons) and “endless genealogies” (attachments to personalities and celebrities) do nothing but “minister questions” (generate inquiries, always asking but never learning anything solid or certain). Our goal in our teaching ministry is charity, seeking others’ highest good, valuing and esteeming them the way God does. It is love in action. That charity will come out of a “pure” (clean) “heart.” It will spring forth from a “good conscience” (right system of standards and norms). It will come out of “faith unfeigned” (genuine, not fake or hypocritical, trust in God’s Word). Those who depart from sound Bible doctrine—or even sound Christian behavior—will engage in “vain jangling” (profitless, worthless information, conduct, thinking, and so on).

Brethren, we must not be arrogant, self-righteous, aggressive, insulting “know-it-alls.” Remember, Titus chapter 3: “[1] Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, [2] To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men. [3] For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.” Being hateful is the old life we had in Adam, dear friends. Being contentious and foolish is our old identity in Adam. Deception and pride do not belong in our lives now. We are new creatures in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). Our attitude and conduct should reflect that new identity. God’s love, not hate, should consume us.

There was a time when we were foolish—yea, we are still foolish to some extent, seeing as to we do not have complete knowledge in the Scriptures as we ought. It makes no sense to get angry with people (rather lost or saved) who are ignorant of the will of God for them. Provided that they are not willfully uninformed or misinformed, we should make every attempt to guide them in the Scriptures. Once they reach the point where they do not want to hear anything, however, we employ 1 Corinthians 14:38: “If any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant.”

Countless people have abandoned their denominational churches over the centuries because they have come to understand that the Holy Spirit does not use the traditions of men to guide us in life. Yes, even denominational preachers have forsaken their religious tradition so as to submit to the will of God for today. Perhaps some of those denominational people you know (hate?) may become the former denominational people we were. There is no guarantee, my dear brethren, but please make every attempt possible to reach them with sound Bible doctrine as long as you possibly (and peacefully) can. Someone did it to reach you (yes?)… and now it is your honor to do the same with others. Whether a clear Gospel message to the lost, or a clear Bible study system to the saved, do not be ashamed in proclaiming it!

CONCLUSION

Why we should not hate the denominational people who misled us:

  1. First and foremost, we should not hate them because God does not hate them. Remember, God did not hate us when we were denominational. Yes, when we were dead in our trespasses and sins, on our way to an eternal Hell!, God loved us by sending His Son Jesus Christ to die for us (Romans 5:6-8; Titus 3:3-7). We are to be a reflection of God’s love to those denominational people.
  2. Remember, we too were (and still are) without perfect spiritual knowledge. That is, we continuously read and study the Scriptures every day so we may come to a fuller understanding! As we further allow the Holy Spirit to illuminate the eyes of our understanding, the superfluous and erroneous (denominational) doctrines will be manifested and we can replace them with sound Bible doctrine. We know what it is like to be ignorant… past and present! Now, we reach others as long as we can, that they may be renewed in their thinking too.
  3. Lastly, one day, those denominational people may very well recover themselves out of the snare of the devil (2 Timothy 2:26). Perhaps… just perhaps… they may even become your most valuable ministry co-workers! Let us be mindful to tell them that, when they finally reach the point of utter frustration and complete defeat in religion, there is an answer (and we found it). If they want that solution, they know they can come to us! (If we had an aggressive, overbearing, rude, loud-mouthed approach with them, they will not bother to come!)

Saints, please remember us in your monthly giving. You can donate securely here: https://www.paypal.me/ShawnBrasseaux, or email me at arcministries@gmail.com. Do not forget about Bible Q&A booklets for sale at https://arcgraceministries.org/in-print/booklets-bible-q-a/. Thanks to all who give to and pray for us! 🙂

Also see:
» Can we witness “too much” to family members?
» Must one be a “King James Bible Pauline dispensationalist” to have eternal life?
» “If God peradventure will give them repentance…?”

GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING, What does it mean to “mind earthly things?”

What does it mean to “mind earthly things?”

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO “MIND EARTHLY THINGS?”

by Shawn Brasseaux

Philippians 3:19 says, “Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.).” What does it mean that these people, “mind earthly things?” Who are these individuals, by the way?

Reading at the beginning of the chapter: “[1] Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. [2] Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision.” There are some people—Jewish religious leaders (as denoted by “concision”)—of which the saints at Philippi need to be aware. These religious leaders are promoting something harmful, some false teaching. The Philippians saints need to be on guard (and so should we)!

“[3] For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. [4] Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: [5] Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; [6] Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. [7] But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. [8] Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, [9] And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:….”

Notice how Paul gave us his religious credentials. If someone could have boasted in religious works, it would have no doubt been he! As Saul of Tarsus, he had been a very powerful religious leader in Israel and the epitome of Mosaic-Law living. He had been infatuated with his own “goodness”—yea, self-righteousness. There came a point, Acts chapter 9 to be exact, when he learned that his righteousness was absolutely worthless! The Law condemned him as a no-good sinner (Romans 8:3), unsaved and worthy of damnation, doomed to endure God’s wrath forever! Saul of Tarsus had come to realize that God’s righteousness mattered above all else. Right there, on the road to Damascus, Saul saw, appreciated, and relied on Jesus Christ’s finished crosswork as the only way to be fit for Heaven. Paul quit working in religion and started relying on Christ’s performance!

Paul continues in Philippians chapter 3 to talk about his personal, daily walk in Christian living and maturity: “[10] That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; [11] If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. [12] Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. [13] Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, [14] I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. [15] Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you. [16] Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.”

Paul is advancing, maturing, coming to better understand, God’s righteousness that he already has in Christ. Even at such a late date—some 30 to 35 years after meeting Jesus Christ and being saved from the penalty of sin—he still has not fully grasped why God saved him anyway. What he does know is that it is Christ’s righteousness—not his own (in religion)—that gave him a right standing before God. He therefore knows that he is to walk by faith in what Christ did, not what he can do in religion. Verses 8-9 again: “[8] Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, [9] And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:….”

Now, we get to the verse in question: “[17] Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. [18] (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: [19] Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.) [20] For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: [21] Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.”

Did you see how verse 17 says that Paul is our pattern, our “ensample?” We are to follow him as he follows Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1). Paul learned not to depend on his performance in religion; his relationship with God and eternal life depended on what Jesus Christ did at Calvary. Keeping rules and regulations could not get him saved; therefore, they could not keep him saved. It would always have to be the merits and power in Jesus Christ’s finished crosswork. Jesus Christ had pleased God in offering Himself for our sins, and God is pleased with us when we rely on Christ’s work for us.

Verses 18-19 are a parenthetical statement. They are a contrast to verse 17. Notice: “[18] (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: [19] Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.).”

The poor Apostle Paul! He is so sad—yea, he is crying! While some Christians are following his model in grace motivation rather than works-religion, some members of the Church the Body of Christ are still laboring under the Law system (just like the Galatians, which see that epistle). They are performing—keeping rules and regulations—and thus ignoring Jesus Christ’s performance at Calvary. The cross of Christ says that we are dead to the Law (Romans 7:4). To be “enemies of the cross of Christ” (Philippians 3:18) means to be opposed to God’s grace demonstrated to us at Calvary. Rather than wanting God to deal with us according to grace, we want Him to bless us according to our works (Law). Paul had to learn as a lost man that his religious performance meant nothing then (first half of Philippians chapter 3) and it means nothing as he writes (second half of the chapter).

In the context of Philippians chapter 3, to “mind earthly things” means to “think,” or be focused on, God’s earthly program (the Mosaic Law, namely). Paul left behind works/Law and came to understand grace concerning justification and sanctification. Some Christians had still not come to that understanding, and it grieved him. The Judaistic (Jewish religion) false teachers of verse 2 had misled them! They were so fixated on human works, our efforts, human religious performance to get blessings and favor from God. While they would not die and go to Hell, they would experience the “destruction”—or damage—done to their Christian life and maturity. Their internal edification would be ruined; sound doctrine would be nowhere in their minds or hearts. The Law is made for a lost man, to lead him to faith in Christ, not for a Christian (1 Timothy 1:3-11)! The Mosaic system and all of its legalistic demands do not belong in the Dispensation of Grace (Colossians 2:8-23)!

Rather than thinking earthly, we should be focused on heavenly things. We are not God’s earthly people (that is the nation Israel); we are His heavenly people (Ephesians 1:3; Ephesians 1:20-23; Ephesians 2:6-7; et cetera). We should thus be thinking about God’s heavenly program, Pauline doctrine, “for our conversation is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20). Our behavior should reflect the place to which we belong. We belong to Heaven, and grace—not Law—is the operating system for the heavenly places. Romans 6:14-15 reminds us: “[14] For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. [15] What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.”

Titus 2:11-15 shows us grace thinking and grace living: “[11] For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, [12] Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; [13] Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; [14] Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. [15] These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.” Some may argue that we need the Law to be victorious over sin. The Bible says we do not need the Law because God’s grace teaches us to be who we are (sons of God in Christ) rather than sinners lost and destined for Hell! Cognizance of our identity will change our behavior, yes?

Colossians 3:1-3 tells us: “[1] If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. [2] Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. [3] For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” We should be concentrating on Christ’s heavenly ministry—Paul’s epistles, Romans through Philemon—rather than His earthly ministry. Our focus is on the heavenly things, not the earthly things.

Philippians chapter 3 again: “[17] Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. [18] (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: [19] Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.).” We are to follow the Apostle Paul according to verse 17. If we do not, we are following the Law, the Bible’s earthly program (our own “belly”/desires, rather than what God wants us to follow). Our Christian lives will be greatly impaired!

Also see:
» What about the Jewish Roots Movement?
» Must I maintain fellowship with God?
» How do we not live after the flesh if we live in bodies of flesh?

Can you explain Philippians 2:14-16?, GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING

Can you explain Philippians 2:14-16?

CAN YOU EXPLAIN PHILIPPIANS 2:14-16?

by Shawn Brasseaux

Can you explain Philippians 2:14-16? “[14] Do all things without murmurings and disputings: [15] That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; [16] Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain” (Philippians 2:14-16). 

In a word, “Shine as lights, brethren, shine as lights!”

One charge frequently leveled against us Christians is, “There are so many hypocrites in the church that I do not care to go.” While sinlessness in this life is utterly impossible, it is no secret that the professing Church could have done (and do) better in maintaining a solid testimony for the truths of Father God. What went wrong? They overwhelmingly substituted religious tradition and men’s opinions for the pure and simple truths of the Word of God rightly divided. Rather than “Thus saith the LORD,” it was (and still is) preferred, “Thus saith Mother Church,” “Thus saith Doctor So-and-So,” “Thus saith I,” et cetera.

A brother in Christ, now enjoying Heaven, wrote the following wise words many decades ago: “All believers are saints, and the moment they are [saved] they should begin to live as saints. It is not natural for a king to live like a pauper nor for a prince to live as a peasant. Those of us who are positionally saints should live as saints, and not bring disgrace and reproach upon Him who died on the cross in order that we might BE saints.” Thinking on these words, Philippians 2:14-16 immediately came to mind. (We will expound those verses later.)

That brother made a point, one that the professing Church would do well in remembering this present hour. Does it make sense for a king to live like a pauper—a very poor person? Is it not silly to see a prince living as a peasant—a lowly, rural person? Consider a parallel contradiction. Why are saints living like sinners, Christians living as non-Christians? The Holy Spirit wrote Philippians 2:14-16 to prevent that very incongruity. We would do well to heed those admonitions, that we “shine as lights!”

Philippians 2:14 opens with: “Do all things without murmurings and disputings.” To “murmur” means “express one’s discontent about (someone or something) in a subdued manner.” Grumbling in a low tone, something not easily heard, murmuring is due to ignorance, evil/bad thinking, and unbelief. “Murmuring” was a notable characteristic of the faithless, unthankful Israelites under Moses’ command (Exodus 15:24; Exodus 16:2-12, Exodus 17:3; Numbers 14:27-36, Numbers 16:11,41; Numbers 17:5-10; et cetera).

The Jews of old were not being renewed in the spirit of their mind. They were not mindful of JEHOVAH God’s provisions for them. They thought and behaved like He taught them nothing and did nothing for them. Deuteronomy 1:27 says: “And ye murmured in your tents, and said, Because the LORD hated us, he hath brought us forth out of the land of Egypt, to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites, to destroy us.” Imagine such pitiful ignorance—“the LORD hated [Israel]” so He delivered them from Egypt! Psalm 106:25 highlights the unbelief and disobedience associated with Israel’s “murmuring:” “But murmured in their tents, and hearkened not unto the voice of the LORD.”

When Jesus received and associated with “publicans and sinners,” the Pharisees and scribes “murmured” (Luke 5:30; Luke 15:2, Luke 19:7). These religious leaders were unbelieving and ignorant of the fact these “evil” people were very ones the Lord had come to save from sin (Matthew 9:10-13)! John 6:41 says: “The Jews then murmured at him, because he said, I am the bread which came down from heaven.” Again, this was all because of doubt and spiritual ignorance. God does not want us to be ignorant or unbelieving; the Bible is here to educate us in His will and ways, and we are to believe it. As we experience and enjoy the Christian walk, we do so with knowledge, faith, and gratitude.

Returning to Philippians 2:14: “Do all things without murmurings and disputings.” Here, “disputings” are “reasonings, imaginations, debate, doubtful things.” Whereas “murmurings” are complaints engendered by spiritual ignorance and ungratefulness to God, “disputings” are intellectual arguments or criticisms used to question or challenge God’s Word and will.

Jesus Christ spoke of “evil thoughts” proceeding from man’s sinful heart (Matthew 15:19; Mark 7:21). The Pharisees and scribes used “thoughts” and “reason” to critique Jesus’ healing of the paralytic man (Luke 5:22) and the man with the withered hand (Luke 6:8). Jesus’ disciples engaged in a petty, selfish “reasoning” and “thought” about who would be the greatest (Luke 9:46-47). Before God gave the unbelieving nations over to their preferences in Genesis chapter 11, Romans 1:21 says they were “vain [empty] in their imaginations.” We see “doubtful disputations” in Romans 14:1, discussions that cause weaker Christians to stumble. First Timothy 2:8 speaks of men in the local assembly needing to be “without… doubting.” James 2:4 talks about “evil thoughts.” All of these are examples of the “disputings” discouraged in Philippians 2:14.

The purpose or goal of a Christian obeying Philippians 2:14—neither murmuring nor disputing—is found in verse 15. “That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke….” “Blameless” is not “sinless” but rather “not guilty of wrongdoing; faultless.” “Harmless” means “innocent, unmixed, or untainted”—something not watered down. The word is translated “simple” in Romans 16:19. Positionally, we are God’s children by faith in Jesus Christ, His finished crosswork, the Gospel of the Grace of God (Galatians 3:26). Are we His sons practically, though? Sometimes. Our behavior does not constantly reflect our identity (new nature) in Christ. That is, there are “murmurings” and “disputings” in our lives as Christians. Let us see how we correct this.

We ought to be “blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke.” Instead of behaving like mature sons of God, there is often childishness in our lives—this should not be. “Without rebuke” means “not worthy of being faulted or discredited.” That is, no one has grounds for calling us hypocrites. As the famous dictum goes, “We practice what we preach.” We claim to be God’s children—we act like God’s children. We say we are saints—we behave like saints.

“In the midst of a crooked and perverse nation….” The life of Jesus Christ is to be lived in and through us the saints as we function in “this present evil world” (Galatians 1:4). We should “do all things without murmurings and disputings,” we are to be “blameless and harmless,” we should be “the sons of God” practically, and we are to be “without rebuke,” while living in a world abounding with those very spiritual evils. What a distinction!

The word “crooked” here in Greek is skolios, from which we get “scoliosis” (curvature, warping, winding of the spine). It is rendered “untoward” (turned away from God) in Acts 2:40. “Perverse” is stronger—it means “corrupt, distorted.” “And Jesus answering said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you, and suffer you? Bring thy son hither” (Luke 9:41; cf. Matthew 17:17). Speaking of perversion within the “Christian” community, Acts 20:30 warns: “Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.” And, 1 Timothy 6:5: “Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.” (These last two references contradict the behavior encouraged in Philippians 2:14.)

No matter our country, it is a “crooked and perverse nation.” Governed by Satan, “the god of this world” (2 Corinthians 4:4), it is thus turned away from God and wholly corrupt. (That evil world system will remain until the Lord Jesus Christ’s Second Coming.) God has left us on this planet as “outposts of the third heaven.” Since we are from another world (“the kingdom of [God’s] dear Son”), we are to behave differently from this world controlled by “the power of darkness” (Colossians 1:13).

“…Among whom ye shine as lights in the world.” In the midst of the unbelieving masses, we Christians live—nay, rather, we shine. As luminous celestial bodies contrast the deep, dark recesses of outer space, so we “stick out” in this lost and dying world. We are lighthouses, guiding souls away from danger and destruction. Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, describing Israel’s believing remnant, excerpted: “[14] Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. [15] Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. [16] Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16).

Ephesians chapter 5 adds: “[7] Be not ye therefore partakers with them [children of disobedience, verse 6]. [8] For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: [9] (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth; ) [10] Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. [11] And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.” We return to Philippians.

“Holding forth the word of life….” As we reprove the works of darkness by preaching and living the truth (Ephesians 5:1–6:9), so we “hold forth the word of life” by preaching and living it. “Holding forth” means “identifying it, paying attention to it, seizing it, and extending it to others.” Notice related usages. Jesus “marked” how some guests chose prominent positions at the feast (Luke 14:7). The lame man “gave heed” to Peter and John, expecting to receive something (Acts 3:5). Paul decided to “stay” for a while in Asia while he sent Timothy and Erastus into Macedonia (Acts 19:22).

“The word of life,” of course, is the Holy Bible, especially rightly divided (2 Timothy 2:15). Jesus said: “It is the spirit that quickeneth [gives life to and makes active]; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life” (John 6:63). Peter replied: “Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life” (verse 68). “Life” here is God’s life—how God lives—how Jesus Christ lives—how we Christians (should) live. God created physical life from nothing by using His spoken Word; He provides spiritual life similarly.

When we “hold forth the word of life,” we urge others to receive it (after all, eternal life through Christ is a gift offered—Romans 6:23). Again, we are not merely preaching the Gospel of Grace; we are living it. Titus 2:11-14 says: “[11] For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, [12] Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; [13] Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; [14] Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” Let us see the result.

We should “do all things without murmurings and disputings,” that we be “blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom [we] shine as lights in the world”—us “holding forth the word of life”—that the Apostle Paul may “rejoice in the day of Christ.” “The day of Christ” is “the Judgment Seat of Christ” (Romans 14:10-12; 2 Corinthians 5:9-10)—when Christians are rewarded for their service to their Saviour while they lived in this present evil world.

Read Philippians chapter 1: “[6] Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:…. [9] And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; [10] That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ. [11] Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.”

Notice verse 6 above points to Philippians 2:13, a verse that heads the passage we are currently discussing: God is working in us “both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” Until “the day of Jesus Christ,” the Holy Spirit has sealed us: He is working in us, so we should not “grieve”/sadden Him (Ephesians 4:30) or “quench”/hinder Him (1 Thessalonians 5:19). God’s grace teaches us how to live (Titus 2:11-14). We are new creatures in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). We are dead to sin; we are alive unto God (Romans chapter 6). We who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts; if we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:24-25). We return to Philippians.

While Paul ministered for 35 years throughout the Roman Empire, he risked his life daily. As he preached the Gospel of the Grace of God, an “illegal religion,” he suffered greatly at the hands of unbelieving, sinful men—imprisonments, beatings, lashings, muggings, deaths!, and so on (2 Corinthians 11:23-28). Sometimes, he lacked food, clothing, and shelter (Philippians 4:11-13). How many modern “feel-good” preachers would endure this for Christ’s sake?

Philippians 2:16 concludes: “…that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.” Despite all the Apostle’s suffering, something thrilled his heart beyond words. A mighty of harvest of souls had resulted! His time and energy were not wasted! One day, he would see those former idol-worshipping pagans stand in Heaven, there only because of Christ’s finished crosswork! But, there was more. They had not only believed that Gospel of Grace for justification unto eternal life—they had believed it to enjoy eternal life daily. Now, the Lord Jesus Christ would accept their work, their Christian service, at the Judgment Seat of Christ. They had shined as lights in the world; they had held forth the word of life!

These dear souls, once Hell-bound, now in Heaven, will be Paul’s reason for praising God! First Thessalonians 2:19-20: “[19] For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming? [20] For ye are our glory and joy.” Philippians 4:1: “Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.” Paul did not “run in vain” when he initially preached the Gospel to them. Neither had he “laboured in vain” when he spent time teaching them daily grace living.

Christian living in the Dispensation of Grace is summarized so beautifully in 2 Corinthians 5:14-21. We should constantly remind ourselves of this our “Great Commission:”

“[14] For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: [15] And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. [16] Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more. [17] Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. [18] And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; [19] To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. [20] Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. [21] For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”

Brethren, Christianity is not about us striving to demonstrate our love for God. Nay! It is Christ’s immense, unfailing love for us that drives us, both to preach and live the Gospel of Grace. We live and preach, that others may believe, live, and preach; also becoming “lights” to shine in this dying, dark world. In the ages to come, there will be a grand “lighting” like this universe has never seen.

When Paul’s converts—whether the Philippians of old, or us today—follow by faith those principles of grace the ascended Lord Jesus Christ entrusted to him, they are preparing for the Judgment Seat of Christ. We want to have this “gold, silver, precious stones” (sound Bible doctrine) stored up in our inner man: we want to have as little as possible of “wood, hay, stubble” (worthless teaching) (1 Corinthians 3:8-15).

All members of the Church the Body of Christ are the fruit of the Holy Spirit’s 2,000-year-long ministry through the Apostle Paul. Brethren, if we walk now by faith in the Dispensation of Grace, Romans through Philemon, there will be so much rejoicing on Paul’s part at the Judgment Seat of Christ. Moreover, all Christians will see the results of their ministries fully exposed, also rejoicing in how God used them to benefit other Christians. (I look forward to seeing you there, dear brethren!)

Immediately after the Judgment Seat of Christ, Father God will gather all His “lights” (members of the Body of Christ), and literally light up the heavens with them! Romans 8:18-19 says: “[18] For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. [19] For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.” What a day that “manifestation” of “glory” will be!

We began with a quote by a brother who has since moved to Heaven. Accordingly, to conclude, we use another quote from him: “We are the only Bible this careless world will read. We are God’s signboards in a sinful world. Men watch us, and they judge Jesus by the way we live, work, act, and talk.” Think as lights—“shine as lights!”

Saints, please remember us in your monthly giving. You can donate securely here: https://www.paypal.me/ShawnBrasseaux, or email me at arcministries@gmail.com. Do not forget about Bible Q&A booklets for sale at https://arcgraceministries.org/in-print/booklets-bible-q-a/. Thanks to all who give to and pray for us! 🙂

Also see:
» What are instant Christians?
» Can you explain 1 Timothy 3:16?
» Why do some Christians persistently behave like lost people?

GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING, If suffering is sure to follow - why serve Jesus Christ?

If suffering is sure to follow, why serve Jesus Christ?

IF SUFFERING IS SURE TO FOLLOW, WHY SERVE JESUS CHRIST?

by Shawn Brasseaux

A dear brother in Christ recently expressed trepidation concerning the suffering of the Bible believer. He told me that he knew 2 Timothy 3:12, “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” The brother did not want to pursue godly living because he knew it would result in persecution. Is this a valid reason for not engaging in grace living? Should we avoid suffering for Christ?

ARE WE REALLY BEING “PERSECUTED?”

Friends, while people may snicker at us for being Christians, frown at us, make rude gestures at us, ridicule us, and shun us, these intimidations should be the least of our concerns. To get the aforesaid brother to realize his faulty reasoning, I asked him if someone had ever come to his door, dragged him out, and hauled him off to prison for being a Christian. Of course not, he said. He lives here in the United States of America, where our constitutional rights protect our spiritual beliefs. So, can we really say that we are persecuted? Why fear what is minor compared to what others suffer for Jesus Christ? If they are willing to endure more, why should we avoid undergoing less?

Have the authorities tortured us for being Christians? Has anyone ever torn our limbs apart on the rack? Burned us alive at the stake for owning and/or reading the Bible? Starved us to death? Beheaded us for refusing to convert to their religion? Cut off our arms and legs, fingers and toes? Drowned us? Beaten us with clubs? Pummeled us to death with rocks? Down through the centuries, believers in Jesus Christ suffered such horrendous fates for their faith… and worse! There are precious members of the Body of Christ all around the world right now, our brethren, suffering similar fates under oppressive and merciless governments. If God’s grace could and can get them through those terrible ordeals, all the way to physical death, then His grace can surely get us through our (lesser) “suffering.” And, if our persecution were to ever reach such extreme levels, then God’s grace that aided other Christians in similar situations will definitely be there for us.

Here in the United States, we have it relatively easy. We should never take our religious liberties for granted as many here do. Our brothers and sisters in Christ around the world do not have such freedom, so they have to stay “underground,” assembling in private. Father God alone knows just how many Christians are in hiding, trapped in such godless nations, wondering when government officials will arrive to arrest, afflict, and/or annihilate them. If these Christians knew those risks, and yet cling to the Scriptures, then can we really shrink away from the minor harassments of which we tend to complain?

Yes, we are called terrible names for being Bible believers. We are laughed at and mocked. Perhaps we are punched or kicked. We are shunned at social functions. Still, this is nothing compared to the suffering other Christians are experiencing worldwide. It is likely, dear friend, that you live outside the United States. Perhaps you know what real suffering for Jesus Christ is. Maybe your faith in Christ makes you liable to a fine, a lifetime prison sentence, or even a death sentence! You are probably suffering a worse fate than I am for being a Christian. My heart goes out to you! We Americans have it good, and thus have no reason whatsoever to complain about “persecution.”

While America is spiritually declining, thankfully, the Bible has not yet been outlawed here. As per the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, we still have the freedom of religion. We are still free to publicly assemble with other Christians. The First Amendment also guarantees us the right to free speech. We have the right to quote Bible verses wherever we go, without fear of imprisonment or other penalties. Let us in the United States never take these our liberties for granted. If the Lord tarries, they will eventually vanish… it remains to be seen if that will happen in our lifetimes. Until then, we must remember that there are Christians in other nations far worse off than we are. They are in our thoughts and prayers.

Wherever we live, whatever we may be suffering for Jesus Christ now, or whatever we may suffer for Jesus Christ yet future, let us not shun that glorious opportunity to be fully subservient to the God-Man Who suffered and died for us! It is time to show our love and gratitude to Him by yielding our lives to Him… even if living means suffering and dying!

GRACE MOTIVATION: LOVE AND GRATITUDE TO GOD

Acts 14:22 says of Barnabas and Paul, “Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.” In verse 19, the unbelieving Jews had just killed Paul by stoning! God raises him from the dead, and he fittingly begins to preach to those new Christians all about how they will have to suffer “much tribulation!” Despite the traumatic death he had just experienced, Paul could not help but encourage others to suffer for Jesus Christ too! Can you get any worse suffering for Christ than dying?

Doubtless, the Christian is to suffer “much.” Yes, the Christian “must” suffer trouble. Is that really disadvantageous though? Dear Christian friends, let us consider how much the Lord Jesus Christ suffered and bled for our transgressions. The wrath of man disfigured His outward man. The wrath of God punished His inward man. He gave His life for us! Now, we have the nerve to declare we want to avoid suffering for His name’s sake? We would prefer a life of ease and carefreeness, totally regarding the fact that we have been bought with a price?! Jesus Christ paid our sin debt with His blood; we serve Him now rather than sin and Satan. Does it make sense for us to rebel against our Master? No. Then why are we refusing to pursue grace living? We do so, not because it is logical, but because it is convenient. We want to avoid suffering because we are selfish. Our sinful nature is controlling us, and we must be transformed by the renewing of our mind.

Second Corinthians chapter 5: “[14] For the love of Christ constraineth [compels, drives] us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: [15] And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.”

Christian brethren, may we be willing to yield our lives to the God-Man who died for us and rose again. We will never be able to repay Him, no, but we can give ourselves over to do His will (why He saved us from sin anyway). After all, He saved us unto good works. Those good works will cause unbelievers around us to oppose and mistreat us. They—under Satan’s control—rebel at anything and everything God is doing. They hate Jesus Christ living in and through us as much as people hated Him when He lived in His own earthly life 20 centuries ago.

However, we should not fear our persecutors. They can take our physical lives, but that is all they can take. They cannot take our souls! Remember what the Lord Jesus Christ encouraged His Apostles with when He first commissioned them: “And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him [Father God] which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matthew 10:28).

GRACE GLORIFICATION: AN EXCEEDING AND ETERNAL WEIGHT OF GLORY

Read what Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians chapter 12: “[9] And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. [10] Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” How could Paul “take pleasure… in persecutions?” Was he so irrational that he loved suffering? No, but he knew that suffering could benefit him in the long run. We are not glad to suffer, but we are glad to know all types of suffering—in this case, persecution—works to our advantage. (And, if you want to know what true suffering for Christ is, go read Paul’s experiences described in 2 Corinthians 6:3-10 and 2 Corinthians 11:23-28! When you suffer those things for Christ, then you can complain!!!)

Notice what Paul said in 2 Corinthians 4:16-18: “[16] For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. [17] For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; [18] While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” (He wrote this, of course, after the Jews had killed him in Acts chapter 14! Notice there is no protest, no bitterness, and certainly no decision to stop preaching about Jesus Christ because it is too hazardous and painful!)

Whatever afflictions are troubling us, my dear friends, just remember that they are only temporary. This earthly life will not last forever. If we are walking by faith in the light of grace as we endure those difficult times, there is a far greater advantage to us being reserved in Heaven. Indeed, we do not see these invisible things with the physical eyes. We see them through the eyes of faith, looking at the verses in God’s Word that speak of that “exceeding and eternal weight of glory.”

A hint of this glorious eternity is exposed in 2 Timothy 2:11-13: “[11] It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: [12] If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: [13] If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.” To the extent that we let Jesus Christ live His life in and through us, that is the extent to which we will live godly. To the extent that we will live godly, that is the degree to which we will suffer for righteousness’ sake. To the extent that we suffer for righteousness’ sake, that is the extent to which we will reign in the heavenly places for all of eternity for Jesus Christ’s glory! Oh, yes indeed, on the authority of the Bible, let me assure you that it is well worth the suffering for Jesus Christ!

Never forget, dear Christian friend, that Father God is very much aware of whatever you are suffering for His Son’s sake. You are on your way to Heaven because you placed your faith in Jesus Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection as sufficient payment for your sins. But, there is a reward for your service to God now that you are a Christian, and part of your service to suffer. He will reward you with an opportunity to serve Him forever in a special place within Heaven’s government. Your quality/level of doctrine, service, and suffering will determine your rank. Again, it is well worth the suffering for Jesus Christ! Be not afraid—let God’s grace lead you and let it get you through wherever and whatever the life of Jesus Christ brings your way!

“But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing” (1 Peter 3:14-17).

“But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters. Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf” (1 Peter 4:13-16).

NOTE: The 2017 Slidell Grace Bible Conference will be held Friday-Sunday, December 1-3, just north of New Orleans. The title and theme are, “Eschatology 101: An Introduction to the Things of the End, Dispensationally Delivered.” Speakers are: Richard Jordan, Eric Neumann, and I (Shawn Brasseaux). We would love to have you come and join us! Insightful Bible study and good ol’ Cajun & Creole cooking! Videos to be archived to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/1611kjvambassador. For more info, download the flyer: https://arcministries.files.wordpress.com/2017/10/2017-slidell-gbc.pdf.

Also see:
» What is the fire at the Judgment Seat of Christ?
» Why do some Christians persistently behave like lost people?
» Why do people get angry when we share right division?

Can you explain Genesis 4:7?, Can you explain Genesis 4:7?, Can you explain Genesis 4:7?, CREATION AND EARLY MAN, GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING, SIN

Can you explain Genesis 4:7?

CAN YOU EXPLAIN GENESIS 4:7?

by Shawn Brasseaux

Genesis 4:7 says, “If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.” What are we to make of this verse? We will search the Scriptures!

CRITICISM, CONTROVERSY, AND CONFUSION

Dr. Scofield, in his eponymous study Bible, has the following footnote on “sin” in Genesis 4:7:

“Or, sin-offering. In Hebrew the same word is used for ‘sin,’ and ‘sin-offering,’ thus emphasizing in a remarkable way the complete identification of the believer’s sin with his sin-offering (cf. John 3. 14 with 2 Cor. 5. 21). Here both meanings are brought together. ‘Sin lieth at the door,’ but so also ‘a sin-offering croucheth at the [tent] door.’ It is ‘where sin abounded’ that ‘grace did much more abound’ (Rom. 5. 20). Abel’s offering implies a previous instruction (cf. Gen. 3. 21), for it was ‘by faith’ (Heb. 11. 4), and faith is taking God at His word; so that Cain’s unbloody offering was a refusal of the divine way. But Jehovah made a last appeal to Cain (Gen. 4. 7) even yet to bring the required offering.” (Bold emphasis mine.)

While Brother Scofield has furnished us with much sound instruction in the Scriptures in his notes quoted above, this author has one major disagreement. It is an objection to the dear brother’s alternate translation of Genesis 4:7, “a sin-offering croucheth at the [tent] door.” Let me explain.

Some believe that since Cain did not originally bring the required blood sacrifice as the LORD God commanded, God has now (as in Genesis 4:7) actually supplied the animal Cain should offer. Like Dr. Scofield, they assume the term “sin” is really a “sin-offering” and the “door” is actually “a tent door.” In fact, oddly enough, they may say something such as: “God knew Cain still refused to go through the ‘trouble’ of obtaining a blood sacrifice, so He put an animal at Cain’s tent door for Cain to take and offer.” They blast our King James Bible translators for not making it clear that God really gave Cain a sacrificial animal at the tent door in Genesis 4:7.

The aforementioned individuals thus read the verse as: “If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, [the sin offering stoops at thy tent door]. [If you want to take that animal and offer it, you can dominate him and he will submit to your will.]” Is this an acceptable interpretation? Friends, must we really resort to changing Scripture to gain understanding? Or, ironically, dear brethren, will we lose understanding in “correcting” the Bible? Here are some considerations, clarifications, and corrections to bear in mind.

CONSIDERATIONS, CLARIFICATIONS, AND CORRECTIONS

As Dr. Scofield pointed out, the Hebrew word chatta’ath indeed can, depending on the context, mean “sin” or “sin offering.” Of the 300 times that it appears in the Hebrew Bible, our King James translators rendered it—“sin” (182 times), “sin offering” (116 times), “punishment” (3 times), “purification for sin” (2 times), “purifying” (1 time), “sinful” (1 time), “sinner” (1 time). Our 1611 Authorized Version translators knew the Hebrew word and how to handle it. As we can see, they rendered it “sin offering” over 100 times, and “sin” nearly 200 times. To fault them at Genesis 4:7 is very unfair. Charging them with “clumsiness” by putting “sin” instead of “sin offering” in Genesis 4:7 is for we to be ignorant of truth. Those King James Bible translators were fully competent to handle the original languages, and we trust their—yea, the Holy Spirit’s—judgment. What can “sin” teach us if left alone in Genesis 4:7 (that “sin offering” inserted cannot)?

Re-reading Genesis 4:7 as it appears in the King James text: “If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.”

Firstly, God asks questions when dealing with people in Scripture, that they think and confess/admit to some truth. The LORD asks Cain, “If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted?” The answer is YES. If Cain does by faith what God’s Word says, God will indeed receive Cain’s payment for sin.

Appealing to Hebrews chapter 11 for commentary: “[1] Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. [2] For by it the elders obtained a good report. [3] Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. [4] By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh…. [6] But without faith it is impossible to please him [God]: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.”

Read Genesis 4:7 in context: “[5] But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. [6] And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? [7] If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.”

Simply put, Cain had no valid reason for growing very angry. God had rejected his bloodless sacrifice, true, but God had already told him what to bring. Cain deliberately brought what he wanted. Sinful Cain had no justification for frowning, feeling mistreated and acting disappointed. Remember, like his brother Abel, he could have done what God commanded. Cain could have come to God, God’s way, and God would have accepted him as He had Abel. God asked Cain questions in verse 6 to generate deep thought. Those warnings could have led to faith and sacrifice if Cain responded positively to the reproof. This was faithful God dealing patiently with a most headstrong sinner!

“And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.” As noted earlier, this is the problem part of the verse. Here, some will argue that the word “sin” is really highlighting the “sin offering” (a supposed sacrificial animal God has now supplied Cain). Allegedly, the animal sacrifice will submit to Cain, allowing him to kill and offer it. However, this is to read something into the Bible text that simply is not there. A sin offering is not under discussion; sin itself is the issue God is underscoring. Remember, we already grasped the thought-flow of the verse by looking at previous verses. Verse 7 is not going to suddenly talk about a sacrifice; it continues to highlight Cain’s unbelief and waywardness.

God reminds Cain that if he does not obey His Word, then sin (the attitude of unbelief and the action of not bringing the blood sacrifice) is present. Sin wants to control, dominate, Cain. However, the LORD God says Cain can overcome it. Cain can still do right if he so chooses. Notice the issue of free will (obscured if “sin” is changed to “sin offering”). He can walk by faith in God’s Word to him, and have victory over sin. Notice again how the LORD God is very patient with Cain, the stubborn works-religion man that he is. God is very generous in allowing ample time for Cain to get right even now. Cain willfully disregarded His Word, but He still gives Cain the opportunity to reform.

There are two ways Cain can go at this point. His first option is to let sin continue reigning over him, persist in his refusal to bring the blood sacrifice, and let sin ultimately destroy him. The second option is to conquer sin by faith, find and bring his own mandatory blood sacrifice, and thereby obtain fellowship and favor with God. What will Cain do? Verse 8 is the historical record: “And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.” The Apostle John remarks in 1 John chapter 3: “[11] For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. [12] Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one [Satan!], and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother’s righteous. [13] Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you.”

CONCLUSION

To use Genesis 4:7 to say that God provided Cain with a blood sacrifice, and God laid that blood sacrifice at Cain’s tent door, is to miss the verse’s point entirely. It is preposterous for someone to argue that God gave a sacrifice to Cain when He knew Cain was not interested in bringing one anyway. Why would God help an unbeliever in disobeying His Word? If the unbeliever was not interested in bringing the blood sacrifice as instructed, would God then bring the animal for the person to catch and offer? Of course not! God would not provide the sacrifice if Cain refused it in the first place. Even after counsel from God, Cain declined to do what was right. There is no way God would do for Cain what He expected Cain to do! Cain had to find and bring the sacrifice, or God would not accept him.

Does this really matter? Why, yes it does! What we can learn from the King James Bible’s reading of Genesis 4:7 is simple. Sin is always lurking, ready to attack us, crouching just on the other side of the “door.” We can doubt God’s Word (open the door) and sin will devour us. Or, we can trust God’s Word (keep the door shut) and sin will not reign over us! Cain was unprepared, but it was deliberate unpreparedness. He was given two opportunities to make the right choice (and ultimately conquer sin). Cain failed both times because he was not walking by faith in either instance.

Dear brethren, we can make application in our lives even today, some 6,000 years after Cain and Abel. If we want to make decisions that honor and please the LORD God, we need to by faith follow His words to us. We need to especially heed His instructions to us Gentiles, the Pauline Bible Books of Romans through Philemon. Remember, “If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.”

Saints, please remember us in your monthly giving. You can donate securely here: https://www.paypal.me/ShawnBrasseaux, or email me at arcministries@gmail.com. Do not forget about Bible Q&A booklets for sale at https://arcgraceministries.org/in-print/booklets-bible-q-a/. Thanks to all who give to and pray for us! 🙂

Also see:
» Why did God reject Cain’s offering?
» Why did God demand blood sacrifices?
» What does “kicking against the pricks” mean?

GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING, What is the “temptation” in 1 Corinthians 10:13?

What is the “temptation” in 1 Corinthians 10:13?

WHAT IS THE “TEMPTATION” IN 1 CORINTHIANS 10:13? HOW DOES GOD “MAKE A WAY TO ESCAPE…?”

by Shawn Brasseaux

First Corinthians 10:13 says: “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” What is the “temptation” here? Is it a trial, trouble, difficulty, hardship, sickness—what? And how does God “make a way to escape?” We turn to other verses for interpretation.

There is some confusion about “temptation” and the King James Bible. We often think of “temptation” as an enticement to sin, but that is not always the sense of the word. Our English term “tempt” is from the Latin temptare, meaning, “to test, try, handle.” Hence, temptation in Scripture means “examine to see what is really inside; try; test.” The word “temptation” in 1 Corinthians 10:13 means any situation or set of circumstances that exposes what is really inside of us. Either there will be good results (passing), or bad results (failing). Sin is not necessarily in view with temptation.

For example, look at Genesis 22:1: “And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham: and he said, Behold, here I am.” Now, Hebrews 11:17: “By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,….” Notice how “tempt” and “tried” are interchangeable. “Trials” and “temptations” are synonyms. A temptation is a trying, a testing, an examination. And, certainly, God did not tempt Abraham to sin. He wanted to reveal what was inside of Abraham (faith, trust in God’s Word).

In the context of 1 Corinthians 10:13, Israel’s circumstances manifested her unbelief. The chapter opens: “[1] Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; [2] And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; [3] And did all eat the same spiritual meat; [4] And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. 

“[5] But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness. [6] Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. [7] Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play. [8] Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand. [9] Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents. [10] Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.”

Instead of being thankful to the LORD God for all that He did for them (delivering them from Egyptian slavery, being with them personally, giving Moses to be their leader, giving them food and water miraculously, and so on), instead of being faithful to and trusting His Word; Israel doubted, complained, rebelled, and followed idols. They wanted to return to their old lifestyle in Egypt (captivity to sin, Satan, the world). Every situation listed in the above passage exposed Israel’s unbelief, doubt. Israel failed God miserably time and time again. They did not want to be His people and did not want to do His will. They were totally ignorant of His Word to them.

In verses 11-15, the Apostle Paul makes application for us: “[11] Now all these things happened unto them for examples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. [12] Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. [13] There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. [14] Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry. [15] I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.”

Friends, we should be careful not to repeat Israel’s mistakes. Firstly, we should be thankful for our provisions in Christ, our identity in Christ, our blessings in Christ. Secondly, we should not get haughty and say, “We are so ‘spiritual’ that we would never do what Israel did! We ‘love’ God too much! We are so ‘much better’ than the Jews of old!” That is what verse 12 speaks against: “Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.” Such “holier-than-thou” pride would cause—and had caused—the Corinthians (and us Christians even today) to repeat Israel’s mistakes. If you read the context (chapters 8-11 of 1 Corinthians), you see that the Corinthian saints were engaged in idolatry, false religion. Satan was using false religion to corrupt them as he used it to pollute ancient Israel. Even today, Satan’s religious system poisons many Christians (thousands of denominations and millions of wrong ideas).

So, back to your questions about 1 Corinthians 10:13: “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” The “escape” is not to have the difficulty/problem/hardship removed. Rather, God leaves us in the situation to see whether we will follow/believe His Word (like Abraham) or whether we will ignore/disbelieve His Word (like Israel). God does not send those hardships upon us; do not misunderstand me. He permits them, and they are opportunities for us to see what is really inside of us—faith or doubt.

We will “bear” or carry/experience/endure the temptation, and we will “escape” it by relying on the strength the Word of God gives us. In the case of 1 Corinthians 10:13, the issue is idolatry (but again, the principles can be applied generally to any time of trial or testing to see how we react). God’s Word will give us the internal capacity to overcome/triumph, but we must have God’s Word in the first place. Israel was not walking by faith in God’s Word, so they had no ability to succeed. Unless we have the Word stored in our soul, we too will fail.

After all of that, the Holy Spirit through Paul tells us, “Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry” (verse 14). See, again, we can “bear” the difficulty, hardship, time of testing, trial, et cetera. We can “flee from idolatry” because the verse says we can! Idols still remain, but we chose not to worship them! We can also flee from any type of unbelief, flesh-walking, sin, et cetera. Satan’s evil world system is still here, and we still live in this world, but we do not have to be “conformed” to it provided that we are letting God’s Word rightly divided “transform” and “renew” our minds (Romans 12:1-2)!

God’s Word furnishes us that ability, that strength, that fortitude, to make it through any and every temptation/testing/trial. Difficult circumstances do not have to defeat and destroy us. Remember, 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, Romans 8:18-25, and Romans 5:1-5. These are great passages to read and quote from memory in times of trouble. Our minds must be renewed to think about troubles/difficulties/trials/hardships the way God does. This is how we are to view trying times in the Dispensation of the Grace of God.

The temptation—whatever circumstance it is—will bring into spotlight what is really inside of us. People all around the world experience trials: after all, the Bible says, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man….” Trials are “common to man….” And, by the way, you will remember Israel of old had them! Adam and Eve had them! Jesus Christ had them! We today have them! Yea, they are indeed “common to man.”

Let us read the whole verse now: “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” Praise our Lord Jesus Christ! God is “faithful,” and He will be faithful to us. We just need to trust in His Word, and that Word of His Grace will take care of the rest. Israel failed miserably when it came to faith, but we can (and should) learn from that mistake. We are “able” to “bear” the “temptation” because “God is faithful.”

Is faith in God still in our heart, despite our troubles? Or have we concluded that our sufferings mean there is no God, that God does not love us, that God does not care for us? Are we thankful for what God has done for us in Christ and by His finished crosswork (saved us from eternal hellfire, given us eternal life, forgiveness, redemption, justification, et cetera)? Or, like Israel, do we want to return to the old life (unbelief, sin, serving self, doing what we want, worshipping idols, et cetera)? Grace gives us the freedom to choose!

A good way to understand temptation is to see the Lord Jesus Christ’s temptations in Matthew 4:1-11. Satan tried to use Jesus Christ’s circumstances to move Him away from Father God’s will for Him. (Satan used similar tactics with Adam and Eve in Genesis 3:1-6.) Adam and Eve failed thrice, remember. Christ, however, triumphed thrice. Those temptations proved that Jesus Christ would still stick by the Word of God. They exposed the faith/trust that He had in His heart with respect to Father God’s Word. Notice how Christ quoted those passages of Scripture. Satan would not divorce His mind from the Word of God. In spite of Satan’s deception, slyness, trickery, Jesus Christ stayed by the Bible. He did what Israel failed to do. He did what Adam and Eve failed to do.

Jesus Christ left us an example to follow with respect to temptations. No matter what circumstances we face, we go by God’s Word to us (Paul’s epistles, Romans through Philemon, the principles of Grace). As long as we choose to follow them by faith, we will not repeat Adam and Eve’s mistakes, or Israel’s mistakes. We will know what God has done for us, who we are in Christ, what mindset and behavior God expects of us, and so on. While much more could be said, this is enough to get you going on the right track about it. Glad to help!

Also see:
» Is God chastening me?
» How should we pray for people enduring natural catastrophes and other tragedies?
» Should we “plead the blood of Jesus?”

GRACE (CHRISTIAN) LIVING, SATAN AND HIS POLICY OF EVIL, Why does Ephesians conclude with such a “dark” passage?, Why does Ephesians conclude with such a “dark” passage?

Why does Ephesians conclude with such a “dark” passage?

WHY DOES EPHESIANS CONCLUDE WITH SUCH A “DARK” PASSAGE?

by Shawn Brasseaux

Ephesians begins to close with the following verse: “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Ephesians 6:12). Why does the Book conclude with this description of the war between good and evil? Let us study the context and see, “For what saith the Scriptures?”

Paul’s epistle to Ephesus is literally a very “heavenly” book. Notice the following verses and phrase unique to Ephesians. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:…” (Ephesians 1:3). “Which [mighty power] he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,…” (Ephesians 1:20). “And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:…” (Ephesians 2:6). “To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,…” (Ephesians 3:10).

As previously mentioned, “heavenly places” is a phrase found exclusively in the Book of Ephesians. It appears four times. The Greek word is epouranios (“above the sky”). On one occasion, it is rendered “high places” (cf. Ephesians 6:12). Ephesians lifts the minds and hearts of its readers to such lofty, dizzying heights. As the Book begins to wind down, however, something strange happens to its tone. There is a drastic shift to material that some call “dark” and “depressing.” Why would the Holy Spirit lead the Apostle Paul to end such a glorious Book about God’s workings in the “heavenly places” (previous paragraph) by referring to Satan’s wicked activities in them (Ephesians 6:12)?

From time immemorial, Bible commentators and readers have needlessly struggled with Ephesians’ so-called “out-of-place” reference to Satan’s behavior in the “heavenly places.” If they approached the Bible dispensationally, as 2 Timothy 2:15 commands us, there would be no difficulty. Like so many other Bible concepts, it would be unbelievably clear. Remember, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” In our upcoming studies, let us see how dispensational Bible study enables us to understand Ephesians’ handling of the “heavenly places.”

The Bible opens, “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void…” (Genesis 1:1-2). From here onward until the Apostle Paul’s ministry in Acts chapter 9, much of Scripture focuses on God’s workings in the earthly realm.

Read some of the rare “Old Testament” glimpses of God operating in the heavenly realm. “Then the earth shook and trembled; the foundations of the heaven moved and shook, because he was wroth…. He bowed the heavens also, and came down; and darkness was under his feet” (2 Samuel 22:8,10; cf. Psalm 18:7,9). “The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all” (Psalm 103:19). “And all the host of heaven shall be dissolved, and the heavens shall be rolled together as a scroll: and all their host shall fall down, as the leaf falleth off from the vine, and as a falling fig from a fig tree. For my sword shall be bathed in heaven: behold, it shall come down upon Idumea, and upon the people of my curse, to judgment. The sword of the LORD is filled with blood…” (Isaiah 34:4-6).

Now, look at some “Old Testament” peeks of Satan working in the heavenly realm. “He [God] putteth no trust in his saints; yea, the heavens are not clean in his sight” (Job 15:15). “Behold, even to the moon, and it shineth not; yea, the stars are not pure in his [God’s] sight” (Job 25:5). “And it shall come to pass in that day, that the LORD shall punish the host of the high ones that are on high [same idea as Ephesians 6:12—spiritual wickedness in “high” places], and the kings of the earth upon the earth” (Isaiah 24:21). Notice in this last verse how God and Satan are working in the heavenly realm. With the above background as a frame of reference, we return to the Epistle of Ephesians.

The first reference to the “heavenly places” affirms that God has given us, the Church the Body of Christ, resources in them: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:…” (Ephesians 1:3). The second mention is how God the Father, because of Jesus Christ’s finished crosswork, has given Christ power over all creatures and positions in creation: “Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,…” (Ephesians 1:20).

The third reference talks about how Father God, through Christ’s finished crosswork, has qualified us to share Christ’s authority in the “heavenly places:” “And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:…” (Ephesians 2:6). The fourth mention identifies us as the objects of attention of the fallen angels currently polluting the “heavenly places:” “To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,…” (Ephesians 3:10).

The final reference, Ephesians 6:12, reminds us that our battle is not between other people here on Earth, but rather invisible evil spirits functioning in the “heavenly places:” “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Ephesians 6:12).

Throughout the “Old Testament,” and for good reason, there is very little about God’s activity in the heavenly realm of creation. Those Scriptures are all about God forming the nation Israel, a group who will restore His authority in the Earth: “Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine” (Exodus 19:5). When we come to the Apostle Paul’s ministry, however, the Bible switches to the “heavenly places….”

Parroting the misguided claims of so-called “Bible authorities,” critics complain about the King James’ italicized words. The phrase “heavenly places” is heavily derided because the original Greek does not have “places.” Thus, people refuse to quote the Authorized Version verbatim here—they prefer “heavenlies.” “Places” is needed to construct a complete English thought; therefore, our 1611 translators rightly inserted it. Upon removing “places,” we rob ourselves of an important link.

Revelation 12:7-9: “[7] And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, [8] And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. [9] And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.” Friend, did you notice “place” in verse 8? It means a “room, position, dwelling.” Satan and his fallen angels functioning in heaven today (Ephesians 6:12) will be tossed out onto the Earth halfway through the future seven-year Tribulation. (Recall the “Old Testament” references about God and Satan both working in the heavenly places, with God cleansing those regions of evil. The Revelation is the capstone.)

With the heavenly places vacated of evil beings, Father God installs us the Church the Body of Christ into those positions of power (refer to the “heavenly” references in Ephesians—1:3-12, 1:20-23, 2:6-7, 3:10-11). Colossians chapter 1: “[16] For by him [Christ Jesus] were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:… [20] And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth [using Israel], or things in heaven [using us the Body of Christ].”

CONCLUSION

Why does Ephesians end with a battlefield, this description of the war between good and evil? It is not until we come to Paul’s ministry do we learn how God will cleanse the heavenly places. Ephesians highlights our eternal destiny as members of the Church the Body of Christ. Just as Father God will use Israel to accomplish His will in the Earth, so He will use us to achieve His will in the Heavens. He will exalt His Son, Jesus Christ, in both realms. Ephesians chapter 1: “[9] [Father God] Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: [10] That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: [11] In whom also we have obtained an inheritance….” 

One day, brethren, we will be displayed for all of the universe to see. All creatures will witness God’s wisdom fully manifested in outer space. We will participate in Jesus Christ’s exaltation in the heavenly places throughout eternity future. Ephesians chapter 2 declares: “[6] And [God] hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: [7] That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.”

As good as this all is, however, we are not there yet. The heavenly places are still so far away! Howbeit, one day, Jesus Christ will return to Earth—at the Rapture—to take His Body (us) beyond the sky. Until we get there, though, we are vulnerable to Satan’s attacks. Knowing full well that we will replace him and his minions in the heavenly places, he fights us every chance he gets. We had better don all the armor of God, beloved, that “we stand against the wiles [schemes] of the devil” (Ephesians 6:10-20)!

Also see:
» How could Satan access Heaven in Job and the Revelation?
» How does Satan operate today?
» How can I have an “effectual” prayer life?