The Cross of Christ

“The Cross of Christ is the revealed truth of God's judgement on sin.  Never associate the idea of martyrdom with the Cross of Christ.  It was the supreme triumph, and it shook the very foundations of Hell.  There is nothing in time or eternity more certain or irrefutable than what Jesus Christ accomplished on the Cross — He made it possible for the entire human race to be brought back into a right standing relationship with God.  He made redemption the foundation of human life; that is, He made a way for every person to have fellowship with God.” Anonymous

Saved by the blood!

“Saved by the blood of the Crucified one!

“Now ransomed from sin and a new work begun,

“Sing praise to the Father and praise to the Son,

“Saved by the blood of the Crucified One!”

“Saved by the blood of the Crucified one!

“The angels rejoicing because it is done;

“A child of the Father, joint heir with the Son,

“Saved by the blood of the Crucified one!”

“Saved by the blood of the Crucified one!

“The Father He spoke, and His will it was done,

“Great Price of my pardon, His own precious Son;

“Saved by the blood of the Crucified one!

“Saved by the blood of the Crucified one!

“All hail to the Father, all hail to the Son,

“All hail to the Spirit, the great Three in One!

“Saved by the blood of the Crucified one!" 

Posted by rjlo at 10:03 AM EST

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Unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given
Isaiah 9:6

“Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14).

“Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.” (Matthew 1:23)

“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,” (Matthew 2:1)

“Behold, The Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world!” (John 1:29)

“The saviour who loves me and suffered the loss

“Of heavenly glory to die on the Cross,

“The Babe of the manger, though born without stain,

“This Jes is coming, is coming again!”

Posted by rjlo at 11:13 AM EST

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We should follow His steps

  “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that we should follow His steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth: Who, when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, He threatened not; but committed Himself to Him Who Judges Righteously: Who His Own Self bore our sins in His Own Body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto Righteousness: by Whose stripes you were healed (I Pet. 2:21–24).”

The Greek word for “follow” literally means “to take the same road” as someone else takes. We should walk the same road that Jesus walked—in short, be Christlike.

However, the only way we truly can follow in Christ’s footsteps is that we ever look to the Cross and keep our faith in Him Crucified and Resurrected.

The American theologian and Lutheran minister Joseph Augustus Seiss (March 18, 1823–June 20, 1904) known for his religion writings on pyramidology and dispensationalism wrote.

“With all his efforts, prayers, and joys, the best Christian is still very faulty.

Christ has taught us to pray daily “Forgive us our trespasses;' but why continue praying for forgiveness if we have not continual trespasses to be forgiven? I know and preach that 'the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses from all sin.' This is a special truth to me. But did He not continue a priest forever, daily presenting His precious blood anew on our behalf, we should most certainly come into condemnation. It is only because 'He continues ever' that He is 'able to save them to the uttermost who come unto God by Him, seeing He ever lives to make intercession for them.' If He did not ever live to make intercession for us, we could not stand for a single day.

And there is not a Christian on earth, however eminent, who does not, every day he lives, accumulative guilt enough to ruin him forever, were it not that he has 'an advocate with the Father' Jesus Christ the Righteous.”

Posted by rjlo at 3:39 PM EST

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The 'only way' is Jesus Christ and Him Crucified and Resurrected.

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me (John 14:6).

Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price Isaiah 55:1.

And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely (Rev 22:17).

Posted by rjlo at 9:35 AM EST

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The Child of God can never outgrow the Cross.

The Apostile Paul referred to the Cross as "the everlasting covenant". Jesus Christ and Him Crucified and Ressurected is the answer for both sinner and Saint.

For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God (1 Corith 1:18).

If there is no “preaching of the Cross” there is no “Power of God”.

For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect (1 Corith 1:17).

“But to Preach the Gospel” - The Gospel is the Cross of Christ. The Cross must ge the foundation of all one believes, teaches, and practices. If it is not, then whatever one proclaims, is not the Gospel.

It will take ETERNITY to discover the benifits and depth of the Cross for mankind.

Posted by rjlo at 9:22 AM EST

Updated: Wednesday, 3 December 2014 9:24 AM EST

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We are the Temple of God

“Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple you are.” 1 Corinthians 3:16

“It came even to pass, as the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the LORD; and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of music, and praised the LORD, saying, For He is good; for His Mercy endures for ever: that then the House was filled with a Cloud, even the House of the LORD; So that the Priests could not stand to minister by reason of the Cloud: for the Glory of the LORD had filled the House of God”. 2 Chronicles 5: 13-14

If we allow Him to have His Perfect Way -Jesus Christ and Him Crucified - within our lives? Then “the Glory of the Lord will fill this temple of God.”

We must come into His presence in the Name of Jesus with thanksgiving and praise.

Posted by rjlo at 9:42 AM EST

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The Church 

I awoke this morning with a 'booming' question - “Do you not know that the 'Church is People'?”

“What? know you not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which you have of God, and you are not your own?” 1 Corinthians 6:19

The Church is not a building, a denomination, a man made temple, a creed, a doctrine, or a set of rules, etc.

The Church is people who are washed in the blood of the Lamb of God and have a relationship with Him – Jesus Christ Crucified and Resurrected.

Posted by rjlo at 9:39 AM EST

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        These are truly Perilous Times.

This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of Godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away (II Tim. 3:1–5).

What the Holy Spirit said through the Apostile Paul about the “denying the power thereof” - “For the preaching of the Cross is to them who perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved, it is the Power of God” (I Cor. 1:18).

“And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they who turn many to righteousness as the stars forever and ever.”

“Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand” (Dan. 12:3,10).

Posted by rjlo at 10:37 AM EST

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Christian 

Your faith in the Crucified and Resurrected Jesus Christ the Son of the Living God will be tested and tried.

But God's Love, Mercy, and Grace, is sufficient and endures forever.

If you do not give up, He will never give up.

Posted by rjlo at 8:45 AM EST

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I have been redeemed!

 

 

If anyone shall ask you
What is my name
Tell them
I have been redeemed

By the Blood of the Lamb
All my sins are washed away
I've been redeemed
And that's not all

No that's not all, there is more besides
I've been to the river and I've been baptized
All my sins are washed away
I've been redeemed

The Lord and I we got so close
He filled me up with the Holy Ghost
All my sins are washed away
I've been redeemed

Now Satan's mad
And I'm so glad
He lost a soul that he thought he had
All my sins are washed away

The devil and me we do agree
I hate him and he hates me
All my sins are washed away
I've been redeemed

You can talk about me all that you please
I'll talk about you while I'm on my knees
All my sins are washed away
I've been redeemed

Oh I went down to the river to pray
Felt so good that I stayed all day
All my sins are washed away
I've been redeemed

He's coming back to take me home
I'll shout "Hallelujah!" before His throne
All my sins are washed away
I've been redeemed

You can't get to heaven on roller skates
You'd roll right by those Pearly Gates
All my sins are washed away
I've been redeemed

You can't get to heaven in a fancy car
Cuz a fancy car won't go that far
All my sins are washed away
I've been redeemed

You can't get to heaven in a rocking chair
Cuz a rocking chair won't get you there
All my sins are washed away
I've been redeemed

You can't get to heaven in dirty blue jeans
Cuz heaven ain't got no washing machines
All my sins are washed away
I've been redeemed

You can't get to heaven as Superman
The Lord might be a Batman fan
All my sins are washed away

You can't get to heaven in a rocket ship
A rocket ship wouldn't make the trip
All my sins are washed away
I've been redeemed

You can't get to heaven by smoking pot
You think you're there when you're really not
All my sins are washed away
I've been redeemed

You can't get to heaven in a red canoe
Cuz God's favorite color is heavenly blue
All my sins are washed away
I've been redeemed

You can't get to heaven in powder and paint
Cuz God won't take you how you ain't
All my sins are washed away
I've been redeemed

It is not by works that I've been saved
Cuz they have no power to save the lost
It's only the blood that that brings one in
I've been redeemed

It is God's grace that I've been saved
I have no fear on the Judgment Day
All my sins are washed away
I've been redeemed

If anyone shall ask you,
what is my name.
Tell them,
I have been redeemed

Posted by rjlo at 8:33 AM EDT

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“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” Proverbs 17:17

Are we just a fair-weather friend and when the storm comes we just leave. Or are we a true friend who will continue to “love” regardless of the circumstances and situations.

Ones true friends are few and far between but there is one that will never leave us or forsake us no matter what the storm or circumstances are. His name is Jesus Christ and Him Crucified and Resurrected.

Posted by rjlo at 8:40 AM EDT

Updated: Tuesday, 21 October 2014 8:35 AM EDT

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What must I do to inherit Eternal Life?

And a certain ruler asked him (Jesus), saying, “Good Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” - Luke 18:18

Faith in Jesus Christ's death on the Cross and His Resurrection brings eternal life.

“The just shall live by his faith." - Habakkuk 2:4

“Jesus said to the woman [who had washed His feet], “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” Luke 7:50

“Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” John 1:12

“Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.” John 3:14-15

“Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on him.” John 3:36

“I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.” John 5:24

“For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.” John 6:40

“I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life.” John 6:47

“I told you that you would die in your sins; if you do not believe that I am the one I claim to be, you will indeed die in your sins.” John 8:24

“I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die.” John 11:25-26

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.” John 3:16-18

-Man is Sinful –

All have sinned and fall short of the honor and glory of God. No one is perfect and are separated from God because He is Holy.

If one continues in sin, it will lead to spiritual death and separation from God forever.

Sin has a Penalty – “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God”. Romans 3:23

There was an alternative and that is to receive God’s free gift of pardon from sin and then inherit life everlasting.

Christ has paid the penalty – “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8

Salvation is a free gift – “For by grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

God’s grace is free and one can not work for it. Grace is God's undeserved favor and all one has to do is receive the gift by faith. If one believes with all their heart that Jesus Christ died for them and was resurrected their sins will be forgiven.

Christ is at your hearts door - “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” Revelation 3:20

Not only did Christ die for all but he also wants all to be saved. Jesus Christ is standing at the door of ones heart, which is their emotions, intellect, and will. If one will only invite Him in then He would come into their heart and life. We must receive Him -- “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:” John 1:12

Receive Christ into your heart: - If you pray to God and tell him that you trust His Son Jesus Christ: - If you believe that Jesus died in your place and paid the penalty for your sins: You will be a born again child of God.

“And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defiles, neither whatsoever works an abomination, or makes a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.” Revelation 21:27

“Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repents.” Luke 15:10

“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Romans 10:13

When you receive Christ your sins are forgiven - “In Whom we have Redemption through His Blood, even the forgiveness of sins.” Colossians 1:14

You became a Son of God - “But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them who believe on His Name.” John 1:12

You are made heir to all of God’s blessings - “The Spirit itself bears witness with our spirit hat we are the Children of God And if children, then heirs, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with Him that we may be also glorified together.” Romans 8:16-17

You now possess everlasting life - “For God so loved the world, that He gave His Only Begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have Everlasting Life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world ; but that the world through Him might be saved.” John 3:16-17

Read the following then sign your name below.

I know that I am a sinner and need Your forgiveness. I believe that Christ died in my place, paying the penalty for my sin: I am willing to turn from my sin: I now invite Jesus Christ to come into my heart and life as my personal savior: I am willing, by God’s grace, to follow and obey Christ as the Lord of my life.

Personal Decision; On the ____ day of _____________, (month)

_______ (yr) I ________________________, received Jesus Christ

as my personal Savior.

You are now embarked on the greatest experience of your life and you want to “Grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 3.18

The best advice that one can give to any new convert is – Keep your eyes on the Cross of Christ and not on man . Remember forgiveness is a free gift and one cannot work their way into Heaven. Your works reward you and Grace is free through repentance and the Blood of Jesus Christ.

Romans Chapters six, seven, and eight are the best place to start your reading in the Bible.

“Watch and pray, that you enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Matthew 26:41

“For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwells no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.” Romans 7:18

The Amplified Version states Romans 7:18 more clearly. “I know that nothing good dwells within me, that is, in my flesh. I can will what is right, but I cannot perform it. [I have the intention and urge to do what is right, but no power to carry it out.]”

Paul laid out the battle that rages for our souls in Galatians 5:16- - “So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. But, when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the law of Moses or any man or Organizations. When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outburst of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that no one living that sort of life will inherit the Kingdom of God. However, the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!”

Christ Jesus has nailed our passions and desires of the sin nature to his cross and crucified them there. He became our Substitute the perfect sacrifice the Lamb of God. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.

Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another. Many stumble over this war between spirit and flesh but always remember - “THEREFORE, [there is] now no condemnation (no adjudging guilty of wrong) for those who are in Christ Jesus, who live [and] walk not after the dictates of the flesh, but after the dictates of the Spirit.” Romans 8:1.

Salvation, Sanctification, and Justification the benefits of being 'In Christ' and one's standing or position with God.

• Salvation,saved or Born again:

•  

“Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” - Acts 16:30–31

“Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” - John 3:1-7

* Sanctification - Sanctification is a state of separation unto God where all believers enter into this state when they are born of God.

“But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption”. - 1 Corinthians 1:30

“And by that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” - Hebrews 10:10

“They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world,” and this is before His request: “Sanctify them in the truth: Thy word is truth.” - John 17:16

Sanctification is not a second work of Grace as it is progressive.

* Justification is God's act of removing the guilt and penalty of sin while at the same time declaring a sinner righteous through Christ and Him Crucified. Righteousness from God is credited to the sinner's account through faith alone, without works. God declares them not guilty.

Justification comes from the Greek word ‘dikaiosis’ an act of God that declares one free from guilt and acceptable unto Himself (God) therefore accounting righteousness unto them.

Some get confused over the difference between sanctification and justification. God cannot declare one ‘not guilty’ (justification) until they are cleansed from all sin and made pure and holy by the blood of Christ (sanctification). When one accepts forgiveness (salvation) from Jesus then sanctification makes a saved person not guilty. Justification at the time of salvation declares a saved person not guilty.

God does not stop with just forgiving one. He justifies and declares them not guilty. He wipes the slate clean as though one had never sinned. Since He is God He can erase the whole thing declaring one not guilty.

Sanctification cleanses while justification erases and one starts out with a clean slate and there is no record of their sins.

“Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.”

- Romans 3:24-26, 28

“That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” - Titus 3:7

“That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. As the Scripture says, "Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame." - Romans 10:8-11

“But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. He did this to demonstrate his justice, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished- he did it to demonstrate his justice at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.” - Romans 3:21-26

"And such were some of you; but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and in the Spirit of our God." - 1 Cor. 6:11

“When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.” - John 19:30

There is nothing that one can add to it - it is finished!

A believers state/walk - Progressive sanctification:

Progressive sanctification is what gradually separates one who has placed their faith in Jesus Christ and Him Crucified from the world and makes them more and more like Jesus Christ.

As one grow in grace, they are gradually – but steadily – changing to be more like Jesus.

“But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” - 2 Corinthians 3:18

This occurs in a process of daily spiritual renewal.

“And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:” - Colossians 3:10

The apostle Paul himself was being sanctified even as he ministered to others. Paul claimed that he had not reached perfection, but that he “pressed on” to attain everything Christ desired for him.

“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.” - Philippians 3:12

This walk can only be accomplished if one keeps their faith in Jesus Christ and Him Crucified. If one puts their faith in any other process or work (good or bad), they will hinder the Holy Spirit working in their lives.

Some teach that one must leave the Cross and move onto Resurrection but nowhere does the Word teach that one is saved or sanctified by the Resurrection. Salvation or any other gift of God is only obtained by placing ones faith in the blood shed by Jesus on the Cross - the Perfect Lamb (sacrifice).

Others teach that praying, fasting, church attendance, water baptism, witnessing, etc. will bring sanctification. All believers should do such things but they will not bring salvation or sanctification to them. Any ritual, penance, church doctrine or works of the flesh by ones will or intellect will not bring sanctification in fact they will eventually lead one to fall away from the faith.

One believer’s state or walk is not the same as every other child of God. Some believers are consistently walking in the Spirit; others are often walking in the flesh. Some believers are carnal and others are spiritual. Some are trusting in what Jesus did on the Cross-while others are trusting in SELF.

The Apostle Paul found out that he could not overcome sin by trusting in self or the Law. “For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. For that which I do I allow  not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.” - Romans 7:14-25

Progressive Sanctification can be seen in the life of Jacob as his very name suggests "deceiver," is renamed by God as "Israel" -- "one who has struggled with God. Jacob is like believers -- with very human strengths and weaknesses, but a man with a striving for spiritual things. From this imperfect man we learn important lessons of faith. Especially, we learn about God's grace. The events described in Jacob's story comprise most of Genesis chapters 25-49.

God’s work in sanctification involves all three members of the Trinity. God the Father is constantly at work in His children “to will and to work for His good pleasure.” - Philippians 2:13

He changes our desires, making us want to please Him, and He empowers us to do so. Jesus earned our sanctification on the cross and, in essence, has become our sanctification.

“But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:” - 1 Corinthians 1:30

The “perfecter of our faith”.

“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” - Hebrews 12:2

The Holy Spirit is the primary agent of our sanctification:

“And such were some of you: but ye are washed , but ye are sanctified , but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” - 1 Corinthians 6:11

“But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth:” - 2 Thessalonians 2:13

“Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.” - 1 Peter 1:2

He is the one who produces in us the fruit of sanctification.

 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” - Galatians 5:22-23

Posted by rjlo at 6:21 AM EDT

Updated: Thursday, 16 October 2014 12:03 PM EDT

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What must I do to inherit Eternal Life?

And a certain ruler asked him (Jesus), saying, “Good Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” - Luke 18:18

Faith in Jesus Christ's death on the Cross and His Resurrection brings eternal life.

“The just shall live by his faith." - Habakkuk 2:4

“Jesus said to the woman [who had washed His feet], “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” Luke 7:50

“Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” John 1:12

“Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.” John 3:14-15

“Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on him.” John 3:36

“I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.” John 5:24

“For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.” John 6:40

“I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life.” John 6:47

“I told you that you would die in your sins; if you do not believe that I am the one I claim to be, you will indeed die in your sins.” John 8:24

“I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die.” John 11:25-26

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.” John 3:16-18

-Man is Sinful –

All have sinned and fall short of the honor and glory of God. No one is perfect and are separated from God because He is Holy.

If one continues in sin, it will lead to spiritual death and separation from God forever.

Sin has a Penalty – “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God”. Romans 3:23

There was an alternative and that is to receive God’s free gift of pardon from sin and then inherit life everlasting.

Christ has paid the penalty – “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8

Salvation is a free gift – “For by grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

God’s grace is free and one can not work for it. Grace is God's undeserved favor and all one has to do is receive the gift by faith. If one believes with all their heart that Jesus Christ died for them and was resurrected their sins will be forgiven.

Christ is at your hearts door - “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” Revelation 3:20

Not only did Christ die for all but he also wants all to be saved. Jesus Christ is standing at the door of ones heart, which is their emotions, intellect, and will. If one will only invite Him in then He would come into their heart and life. We must receive Him -- “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:” John 1:12

Receive Christ into your heart: - If you pray to God and tell him that you trust His Son Jesus Christ: - If you believe that Jesus died in your place and paid the penalty for your sins: You will be a born again child of God.

“And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defiles, neither whatsoever works an abomination, or makes a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.” Revelation 21:27

“Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repents.” Luke 15:10

“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Romans 10:13

When you receive Christ your sins are forgiven - “In Whom we have Redemption through His Blood, even the forgiveness of sins.” Colossians 1:14

You became a Son of God - “But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them who believe on His Name.” John 1:12

You are made heir to all of God’s blessings - “The Spirit itself bears witness with our spirit hat we are the Children of God And if children, then heirs, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with Him that we may be also glorified together.” Romans 8:16-17

You now possess everlasting life - “For God so loved the world, that He gave His Only Begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have Everlasting Life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world ; but that the world through Him might be saved.” John 3:16-17

Read the following then sign your name below.

I know that I am a sinner and need Your forgiveness. I believe that Christ died in my place, paying the penalty for my sin: I am willing to turn from my sin: I now invite Jesus Christ to come into my heart and life as my personal savior: I am willing, by God’s grace, to follow and obey Christ as the Lord of my life.

Personal Decision; On the ____ day of _____________, (month)

_______ (yr) I ________________________, received Jesus Christ

as my personal Savior.

You are now embarked on the greatest experience of your life and you want to “Grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 3.18

The best advice that one can give to any new convert is – Keep your eyes on the Cross of Christ and not on man . Remember forgiveness is a free gift and one cannot work their way into Heaven. Your works reward you and Grace is free through repentance and the Blood of Jesus Christ.

Romans Chapters six, seven, and eight are the best place to start your reading in the Bible.

“Watch and pray, that you enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Matthew 26:41

“For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwells no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.” Romans 7:18

The Amplified Version states Romans 7:18 more clearly. “I know that nothing good dwells within me, that is, in my flesh. I can will what is right, but I cannot perform it. [I have the intention and urge to do what is right, but no power to carry it out.]”

Paul laid out the battle that rages for our souls in Galatians 5:16- - “So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. But, when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the law of Moses or any man or Organizations. When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outburst of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that no one living that sort of life will inherit the Kingdom of God. However, the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!”

Christ Jesus has nailed our passions and desires of the sin nature to his cross and crucified them there. He became our Substitute the perfect sacrifice the Lamb of God. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.

Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another. Many stumble over this war between spirit and flesh but always remember - “THEREFORE, [there is] now no condemnation (no adjudging guilty of wrong) for those who are in Christ Jesus, who live [and] walk not after the dictates of the flesh, but after the dictates of the Spirit.” Romans 8:1.

Salvation, Sanctification, and Justification the benefits of being 'In Christ' and one's standing or position with God.

• Salvation,saved or Born again:

•  

“Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” - Acts 16:30–31

“Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” - John 3:1-7

* Sanctification - Sanctification is a state of separation unto God where all believers enter into this state when they are born of God.

“But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption”. - 1 Corinthians 1:30

“And by that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” - Hebrews 10:10

“They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world,” and this is before His request: “Sanctify them in the truth: Thy word is truth.” - John 17:16

Sanctification is not a second work of Grace as it is progressive.

* Justification is God's act of removing the guilt and penalty of sin while at the same time declaring a sinner righteous through Christ and Him Crucified. Righteousness from God is credited to the sinner's account through faith alone, without works. God declares them not guilty.

Justification comes from the Greek word ‘dikaiosis’ an act of God that declares one free from guilt and acceptable unto Himself (God) therefore accounting righteousness unto them.

Some get confused over the difference between sanctification and justification. God cannot declare one ‘not guilty’ (justification) until they are cleansed from all sin and made pure and holy by the blood of Christ (sanctification). When one accepts forgiveness (salvation) from Jesus then sanctification makes a saved person not guilty. Justification at the time of salvation declares a saved person not guilty.

God does not stop with just forgiving one. He justifies and declares them not guilty. He wipes the slate clean as though one had never sinned. Since He is God He can erase the whole thing declaring one not guilty.

Sanctification cleanses while justification erases and one starts out with a clean slate and there is no record of their sins.

“Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.”

- Romans 3:24-26, 28

“That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” - Titus 3:7

“That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. As the Scripture says, "Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame." - Romans 10:8-11

“But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. He did this to demonstrate his justice, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished- he did it to demonstrate his justice at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.” - Romans 3:21-26

"And such were some of you; but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and in the Spirit of our God." - 1 Cor. 6:11

“When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.” - John 19:30

There is nothing that one can add to it - it is finished!

A believers state/walk - Progressive sanctification:

Progressive sanctification is what gradually separates one who has placed their faith in Jesus Christ and Him Crucified from the world and makes them more and more like Jesus Christ.

As one grow in grace, they are gradually – but steadily – changing to be more like Jesus.

“But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” - 2 Corinthians 3:18

This occurs in a process of daily spiritual renewal.

“And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:” - Colossians 3:10

The apostle Paul himself was being sanctified even as he ministered to others. Paul claimed that he had not reached perfection, but that he “pressed on” to attain everything Christ desired for him.

“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.” - Philippians 3:12

This walk can only be accomplished if one keeps their faith in Jesus Christ and Him Crucified. If one puts their faith in any other process or work (good or bad), they will hinder the Holy Spirit working in their lives.

Some teach that one must leave the Cross and move onto Resurrection but nowhere does the Word teach that one is saved or sanctified by the Resurrection. Salvation or any other gift of God is only obtained by placing ones faith in the blood shed by Jesus on the Cross - the Perfect Lamb (sacrifice).

Others teach that praying, fasting, church attendance, water baptism, witnessing, etc. will bring sanctification. All believers should do such things but they will not bring salvation or sanctification to them. Any ritual, penance, church doctrine or works of the flesh by ones will or intellect will not bring sanctification in fact they will eventually lead one to fall away from the faith.

One believer’s state or walk is not the same as every other child of God. Some believers are consistently walking in the Spirit; others are often walking in the flesh. Some believers are carnal and others are spiritual. Some are trusting in what Jesus did on the Cross-while others are trusting in SELF.

The Apostle Paul found out that he could not overcome sin by trusting in self or the Law. “For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. For that which I do I allow  not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.” - Romans 7:14-25

Progressive Sanctification can be seen in the life of Jacob as his very name suggests "deceiver," is renamed by God as "Israel" -- "one who has struggled with God. Jacob is like believers -- with very human strengths and weaknesses, but a man with a striving for spiritual things. From this imperfect man we learn important lessons of faith. Especially, we learn about God's grace. The events described in Jacob's story comprise most of Genesis chapters 25-49.

God’s work in sanctification involves all three members of the Trinity. God the Father is constantly at work in His children “to will and to work for His good pleasure.” - Philippians 2:13

He changes our desires, making us want to please Him, and He empowers us to do so. Jesus earned our sanctification on the cross and, in essence, has become our sanctification.

“But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:” - 1 Corinthians 1:30

The “perfecter of our faith”.

“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” - Hebrews 12:2

The Holy Spirit is the primary agent of our sanctification:

“And such were some of you: but ye are washed , but ye are sanctified , but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” - 1 Corinthians 6:11

“But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth:” - 2 Thessalonians 2:13

“Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.” - 1 Peter 1:2

He is the one who produces in us the fruit of sanctification.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” - Galatians 5:22-23

Posted by rjlo at 6:18 AM EDT

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A question is asked in the Word, “Are you in “The Faith,” or have you accepted “another gospel”

“I imarvel that you are so soon removed from Him Who called you into the Grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some who trouble you, and would pervert the Gospel of Christ (Gal. 1:6–7).”

“Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, Shall He find The Faith upon the Earth?” (Lk 18:8)

“Examine yourselves, whether you be in The Faith; prove your own selves. Know you not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except you be reprobates?” (II Corinthians 13:5.)

The question is asked again, “Are you in “The Faith,” or have you accepted “another gospel”?

Posted by rjlo at 9:55 AM EDT

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