Temple Corners

Treasures out of Darkness

2006-08-13T08:59:00.000-07:00

To the Glory of God, creator of Heaven and Earth
Our God reigns...http://christstone.blogspot.com/

Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem

2006-07-30T08:15:00.000-07:00

Just What Are We Praying ?

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem:
May they prosper who love you.
May peace be your walls,
And prosperity within your palaces.
For the sake of my brothers and my friends,
I will now say,
May peace be within you.
For the sake of the house of Yahweh our God
I will seek your good.
Psalm 122:6-9

This group of words invoke many teachings and exchange. Pryor to the current conflict in the Middle East the most frequent teaching concerning this among American churches had to do with the issue of “prosper” as in, “to gain something”. Now, at this time the focus has shifted and lines are being drawn. People are placing themselves on one side or the other, ,often resulting from improper understanding of “Shalom” - completeness and “ Sh‘al’- to inquire, ask, request. In this psalm “Sh’al is translated “pray” - understood generically. Once we understand we can“seek”- “Ba qar” make a search / meditate, the “good” - Tov used throughout the Creationstory, of the house of Yahweh , the picture changes!
Peace in the English thinking mind is understood as “stopping of hostilities” a conflictless existence. A state of tranquility more like a trancelike stupor/ utopian condition. Many of us have the image of the daisy in the M1 rifle from the 60’s protest / hippy days. As many learned, flowers cannot plug the barrel of a rifle.
The Hebrew mind - that of the writer and first hears of this Psalm, did not have these thoughts in mind when Yahweh was communicating this command. Moreover the Holy Spirit, in choosing the time and vocabulary of that historic setting, had and has specific concepts He wants to reveal to every age based upon the understanding of the historic hearers of the closed message. [This is the task of the exegete concerning any section of Scripture and as Paul says in Eph. 4 one of the Gifts given to the Body of Christ.] Understanding the concepts in each generation, applying the message to our generation’s day and time, becomes our task. Faithful followers need to “inquire” as the text says and come to the understanding of those to whom it was first revealed before we can truly follow the directives in a living society. Otherwise Scripture becomes an authoritarian proof text instead of the living heart and mind of the Creator - Yahweh. Once understood the unadorned / plain / simple - meaning for our time can be “considered” - “Ba qar”- translated seek in verse nine, becomes the outcome of this inquiry. Once the mind of Yahweh becomes revealed and understood the truth derived from the text can be applied in any contemporary setting. This application then shows forth the heart of Yahweh through The Body of Christ and reveals the actions of the Holy Spirit the same way leaves moving reveal the action of the wind.
Shalom, Sh’al, Tov, and Ba qar become essential - pivotal concepts in this command of Yahweh written by David as a Psalm of Ascent to Jerusalem for Feast participants intended for those arriving for teaching or worship. For the sake of understanding here I will rewrite 122:6-9. Mind you this is not an authoritative translation but an insertion of the root concepts to help us get an idea of the intent of Yahweh’s directive. This is the Pastor Art paraphrase - conclusion if this were the morning discourse.

Inquire / ask about the completeness or beneficial soundness of Jerusalem
May those who love Her and do this become complete and sound as well
May this completeness become the walls that protect you and form your community
And may your leaders know this as well
And for those of the same heart - the Holy community of Yahweh
May this completeness - soundness be within you
For the sake of Yahweh and His house - not mine
I will consider / reflect / meditate on what this means
Yahweh’s good - Tov like that of pure unfallen creation
I will seek for Jerusalem
This is to be the outcome of my task - the answer to my inquiry

Why is this important? We are in the day that the enemies of Israel are voicing Her demise. These voices whether openly without carefully chosen words or those who hide behind “Spiritualizing” the existence of the landgrant of Yahweh to the people who are Hebrew are both speaking curses. From the foundation of the Nation of Israel - Torah taught that those who surrender to the commonwealth standards Israel and Her people would be treated as natural born citizens - sons of Abraham. That citizenship was lived out within the physical landgrant of Yahweh and that has not changed and will not change. The land of Israel belongs to the Hebrew - Jewish or descended of other Nations by natural or grafted in citizenship. [This statement is not a declaration concerning redemption but the reality of the saved by the choice to join Yahweh and His Kingdom through Christ - Psalm 122:6-9 ] Deuteronomy 32:7-8 and the Book of Acts 17:26 confirming, instruct us that Yahweh set boundaries and times for the Nations. This includes the physical land of Israel where Her citizens dwell. When the land was given to Abraham’s sons. Yahweh defined who received what, Genesis 15:18-21, Genesis 21:9ff. And since that opening title giving, the Nations have received their land grants. This has not changed and the land is the completeness of Israel we must meditate upon and seek as Her Shalom. It is true that in this fallen situation the acquiring of the land may have difficulties, after all, Israel’s enemies will speak and act deceptively to strip Her of the land. However the fact of who’s land it is has not changed and the Shalom of Israel will not be complete unless and until they hold it within walls of shalom! As for peoples within the boarders of the defined physical place, they have mandates from Scripture concerning their living situations and allegiance.
What is the Tov? It is at least the same as any other sovereign people. To defend and to reclaim what has been taken, up to and including the actions of war. Thieves must come to justice and even though this age will not produce that justice those who have been unjustly treated, they still have reason to claim and to try to receive justice until the day of justice. Moreover, we who should understand this should stand with Her or we will fall with Her enemies!
Pastor Art

In the Wilderness - Listen

2006-06-13T08:54:00.000-07:00

Our God reaches down, touching the reason for our stoning
He's writing in the dust of our death the letters of His Name
The desperate voices of the world, rise to Him, in the wind driven dust
Skull hill the Father's response, Christ's blood giving life through His Passion...

Listen wilderness, wonder staggering in the parching waste
Soiled with death's dust carried by the swirling Devil wind
Hear Yahweh's whisper, His voice, the spring of living Water
Oasis pool of life, refreshing the weary, washing the soiled.

please check

2006-05-09T11:07:00.000-07:00

please link to Gateway of the Rock for a Ministry Update.

2006-03-26T19:52:00.000-08:00

The Sound of Yahweh’s Voice from Salvation History
Returning to the Hearts of the Fathers
Malachi

As I write this the reports of world news roll around in my mind. The reports softly speak of Europe looking at a future where segregated living my be needed. Murmurings of making colonies of isolated Islamic immigrates. The population rate of European bloodlines are in negative birth rates. The foreigner population is soon to out strip the old peoples. The fastest growing religion is Islamic and the distain for Christianinity is evident everywhere.

Why, why is this? The answer is nothing short of Biblical proportions! Scripture tells us that unrighteousness as a foundation for building a nation will end in its demise. The Americas were built upon unrighteousness. Slavery, moving of ancient boundaries, exploiting widows and orphans, greed, and other exploitations built the nations of the Americas especially the US. The root of this injustice comes from the Nations of Europe and their perversion of cultural superiority and twisting the Gospel to the advantage of the exploiters.

Scripture says through out that the conditions and actions of this nature used as the foundation of a society will cause that society to be swallowed up by the land or spit out or have ones enemies overrun the land. Wombs will be barren the land unfruitful ect. We are watching the completion of the evil just as with the Canaanites completion just before the release of the Nation to become Israel. The days of the Euro - American dominance and the form of religion derived out of Her are coming to an end. The signs and the conformation from Scripture for those who have ears and eyes is plain. This stirring deep within me truly comes from Yahweh He has written it in His testimony - Torah as the pattern of the rise and fall of power dominance clearing the way for His people to be raised up. The rising is coming the past unrighteous Euro conquest opened doors but the wrong - ends was achieved. The voices of the oppressed are being heard and the hand of Yahweh is moving across the face of the earth to make righteous His name soiled! Beware repent listen awake reject the teaching that turns one from the God of Torah from Yahweh and live!
This is written from an unfolding vision from inquiry at His Throne.
Pastor Art

Has Salvation Become Cultural Elitism?

2006-02-21T12:17:00.000-08:00

Unto all the Nations…

The first place we encounter man is Gen.1:26, “Let us make man in Our image” Yahweh speaking, helps reveal the idea of many from the one. The characteristics, nature, and unfathomable Devine diversity within that statement is over looked. Out of First Adam mankind has spread across the face of the Earth. After enough people were born Yahweh implemented His plan even through the rebellion spoken about around Babel mitigated against His plan and command given to the first couple in Gen.1:28 in the Garden before the Fall. Yahweh’s plan did not change after blessing Noah and his sons' commissions given them with the same mandate as Adam and Eve. Their descendents refused. Yahweh so set on this diversity confused the ability to communicate universally therefore forming the various cultures. One person could not reflect the “Image of Yahweh” neither could a single culture.

Within these cultures the expressions of “the unknown God” the “Great Spirit” the “Supreme One” in whatever name or concept He is known as, provides evidence that His existence is innate knowledge. Paul in his “Gospel of God” Romans 1:1 starts at this point instead of with Jewish proofs evolved with Messiah because he speaks to those ignorant of the “specific revelation - Torah”; “What therefore you worship in ignorance, this I proclaim to you”, Acts 17:23. This is a constant in Paul’s instruction originating from his Jewish roots. The Sanhedrin were made up of Rabbis / scholars of every intellectual discipline. This included a man among the 70 completely versed in the religions and philosophies of the gentiles. This man was known as the “Apostle to the Gentiles”. His place on that counsel was to go and instruct gentiles that inquired of Israel concerning Yahweh and the Covenant and their desire to enter into the commonwealth of Israel. Mind you I am not saying that this was Paul’s seat as a Pharisee however it would seem that he was assigned this task first by Jesus then confirmed and recognized by James at the Jerusalem Council, Acts 15. He uses this title directly and indirectly throughout his letters, Rom.1:5, 11:13, Gal.2:8, 1st Tim.2:7, and 2nd Tim.1:11.

Paul in Acts 17:24-31 speaking to the “intellectuals” on Mars Hill starts from their understanding and proceeds to reveal more of who this “unknown God” is to those willing to hear. Paul writes consistent with his teaching, in his letter to Rome he explains that “Natural or General revelation” reveals the truth about God, Creator God. He says that this understanding is “evident” and “understandable” however rejected on the whole by men darkening their hearts so that their worship is idolatry. This exchange of “Glory - worship” sealed the sin nature of individuals rooted in the inherited sin from First Adam sealing all men within the sphere of original sin with the fruit of rejection of the evident understanding of The God who created and should be worshiped as such. Reality of Gen.1-3 replayed in each individual as it was in the individual status at the opening of history therefore bestowing upon each individual inherited - original sin and actual sin therefore causing all to be culpable and just recipients of this God’s wrath, Rom.1:18f.

This however does not prescribe a universalistic doctrine of salvation or damnation for people unable to receive the completed revelation coming from the Jews, John 4:22. Original Sin and the Fallen nature of man after 1st Adam is not negated here this is what Paul is getting at with his introduction to the teaching of Romans - the nature of man after the Fall is to turn away from what is right before their eyes in exchange for the lesser glory in the same way as their corporate Father 1st Adam. Paul then from the establishment of man’s current condition deprived in all aspects - mind, body, and spirit, not just mind or body or spirit “total”. (for most cultures throughout history as it is today the condition of mankind was believed to be a status of good or neutral from birth and varying conditions between) upon establishing this Paul proceeds to explain that mankind all mankind including the Hebrews who were set aside and chosen to tell the Nation’s this, but for the most part failed, can now choose to reverse as it were, their choice. All of the Fallen can exchange the glory of creation - sin and death - for the glory of the Creator - life and shalom - through Jesus (basic outline of the Gospel). Yahweh’s desire is that all men be saved - ie become a part of 2nd Adam - Jesus.

Hebrews 11, (specifically 14-16) speaks to what Paul is detailing in his writings. Those in this list were seeking beyond the revealed understanding of their time in history and cultural understanding and honoring the Creator made evident to them within their historical and cultural setting. Yes, the revealed Torah became known in many lives historically however not all, especially evident, Abraham who’s example becomes the standard, Gal.3:29.

“All these died in faith’ without receiving the promises, but having seen them and having welcomed them from a distance, and having confessed that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. For those who say such things make it clear that they are seeking a country of their own…”
Hebrews 11:13-14

Paul opens his “Gospel of God” explaining that all could seek and come to acknowledge and understanding of the Creator even though not completely revealed. However “By Faith… they gained approval”. before Moses the object of their faith was, as Paul teaches opening Romans the Creator - generic by identity but still evident and understandable all the same. The first to embody this faith after Noah; who found grace and was a righteous man and called to be a prophet by Yahweh’s testimony Gen.6:7-9, was Abraham, who was willing to forsake father and mother etc… for the sake of the kingdom, being obedient to what was revealed to him, Gen. 15:6 Rom.4:3, Gal.3:6, James 2:22-23 - meeting Jesus’ requirements and most probably in the minds of the Hebrews’ hearing Jesus speak, Abraham is the standard understood since he did just that. As we read at Paul’s hand this Abraham per Gal.3:29, is the father of those who seek beyond the creation for the Creator to worship Him.
As with how we “moderns” define “Salvation” through the completed revelation, like those who sought and found the evidenced Creator there are conditions for receiving the “Grace of Yahweh” this condition was then as now; once the understanding that our Creator has to be worshiped we have to choose to submit then obey the growing understanding of His revealed commands - in our day embodied in Scripture. However, through the ages just like the “salvation and deliverance” given to Noah (one specific example) the requirements will not match the Covenant requirements of the completed. The full revelation being more detailed still has the foundation exampled by Abraham, taught by Jesus, and explained by Paul to those who were ignorant. However there was Grace all the same!! This dynamic of Yahweh’s consistent nature would still apply even today for anyone meeting that situation. Salvation through Jesus means just that; when He is revealed to any individual and declared to be “Yahweh - LORD” then … therefore if someone who because of historical and cultural limits worships the “Creator” and not the Creator’s creation whether or not that person knows the “NAME”, he has fulfilled the conditions in the same way as those listed in Hebrews 11. Once the face of the Creator they see their heart will declare Jesus LORD. How will Jesus respond?…

Am I saying that there is salvation apart from the Cross and the Gospel that explains why the Cross? NO! However, faith is defined by what is unseen - more definitely the assurance and conviction of the unseen, the invisible. The Gospel then is the report detailing to the hearer who has a worldview, of the truth of this Creator perceived in every culture and understood through that culture and historical setting. Our job as witnesses - Gospel bearers - becomes in the same way as Phillip in Acts 8 and Paul in Acts 17 to inquire into the current understanding of the person or people group we come into contact with and proceed to provide the full revelation. But for those either because of history setting or other circumstances the Cross event does not have to be seen to have an effect on those who like Abraham worship the Creator awaiting more complete information. Thomas expresses need to “see” the resurrected Christ before he would believe the reports of the resurrection. After Jesus makes Himself visible again in Thomas’ presence He makes clear that a blessedness is given to believers whose eyes and by the situation, other senses do not experience what the generation of His incarnation experiences “yet believe”. Jesus speaks referring to, “They who did not see”, an aorist tense concept. This statement can mean past historically or an one time event. This section is taught wrongly as an imperfect future event as if Jesus is saying from this time forward those who will not be able to see as you on this day they are blessed. I myself have wrongly taught this but the text and the context of the examples already explored and others from Scripture can not uphold this.

We in our day and historical setting benefit from the invisible God made visible, Colossians 1:14f through the testimony of eyewitnesses however as per Hebrews 11 and Jesus in John 20 those who had not seen, yet still believed in the invisible Creator and did not turn to worship the glories of that creation as gods, past present or future, they are blessed! Can that mean anything other then the embrace of Salvation?
Pastor Art

Teach Us to Pray

2006-02-13T09:24:00.000-08:00

Teach us to Pray
When asked Jesus answered…

This is the second part of Matt. 18. I purposed in the earlier post that the context and flow of Jesus’ teaching speaks about the use of authority for correction within the body of Christ. A strong point in favor for this I left out, Peter’s next question,

Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him?
Matt.18:21

Jesus answers his question still following the flow of authority within the Kingdom because this was the topic at hand not prayer. Jesus infers the cycle of Jubilee - a Kingdom principle. Since we are not speaking about forgiveness and justice at this time I will leave that for a future post. The point though is that Peter nor any of the other listeners considered that Jesus was applying these concepts to prayer but order within the Kingdom.

However the disciples did ask about prayer. Luke 11:1-2, corresponds conceptually with Matt. 6:9-13. These seem to be two different settings indicating the importance. In Luke where the question is asked by “One of His disciples” the answer is accompanied by parables, while Matt. places Jesus’ instruction within the Sermon on the Mount in the flow of other aspects of prayer. We will delve into these at another time because they serve as illustrations of the outline and are interconnected helping develop the proper impetus, the Kingdom impetus concerning prayer.

We will focus on what I see as the intercession/petition section. Scripture gives evidence that Kingdom /Heavenly patterns have been revealed and acted out and should be continued until Jesus’ return, Ex.25 & Heb.8:2, John 5:19, 7:16-19.

Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Matt. 6:10
…thy Kingdom come…
Luke11:2

As evidenced by the short phrase in Luke the outline aspect is quite pronounced. I would think it fair to say Jesus’ instruction here, especially within the Sermon setting is a type of manifesto/ declaration ratifying the entering of Yahweh’s Kingdom rule among men. Opening this manifesto Jesus identifies the character that will start to develop within and among His subjects, Matt. 5:3-12. Next He speaks of our purpose as we dwell within other Kingdoms until He returns,5:13-16. Jesus thirdly makes quite clear that His actions will not alter the established Covenant but uphold it dynamically until heaven and earth “pass away”. In so doing He proves His authenticity as a Prophet per Deut. 13, Rev.22:16f. Moreover, the instructions of the current stewards “Scribes and Pharisees” need to be observed Matt.23:1-3,and surpassed not eradicated, since those taught in the truth stored up now joining the newly “harvested” fruit of Jesus’ teaching have a double portion, Matt.13:52. Placed together with Matt. 23:1-3 He indicates that the teachings of old are right and true and foundation for our action, Jer.6:16-21, Ezk.7:23-27,Psalm 11:3, John 5:37-47. Jesus then gives examples, illustrating how a society foundationed in Torah contrasts with the society currently surrounding them, 5:21-48 see also Isaiah 58 comparing the type of society depicted as the true fast to existing societies upon the earth, also inferred in Isaiah 55:6-9.

Jesus turning from describing the character and social structure of His “church plant” if you will, begins to address our interactions with Him while He prepares our permanent dwelling in His Father’s house, John 14. Remember the ears hearing Jesus speak are not the ears of modernity. Understanding the setting holds many keys to His instruction. He knows that those following Him understand the Torah’s social structure and the corrective instruction of the Prophets, this admonition gives weight and definition to “…whoever annuls… and so teaches… and , … all they tell you, do and observe, but…” . Why does understanding the setting hold great importance? Because false teaching becomes easer either by design or ignorance when the foundations are gone, Psalm 11:3 ect. Today we need teachers who will take the time needed to open up the setting of Scripture (old treasure) thereby understand its full impact as the living and powerful word (new treasure) can be applied to each current culture. Those who do this receive the honor of the faithfully teaching from the seat of Moses and upholding the standard of Deut.13, Matt.5:17f, and Rev.22:18f quoting Deut.4.

This next section, “preaching point” involves allegiance. Malachi 1:6-14 spoke about this issue of the Fear of Yahweh displayed in the purity of ones sacrifice given to show honor, either to the governor or to Yahweh. Jesus speaking to this issue here depicts misplaced fear as hypocrisy. As Malachi explains the truth of our actions, the reality of who we fear becomes evident by whose eyes are intended to see our spiritual activity. Do we make a show out in the open with great fanfare, or speak meaningless repeated phrases hoping to attract the attention of Yahweh like pagans, supposing the abundance of sound proves sincerity therefore deserving a hearing? Or do we enter into the secret place, like Daniel, David, Jesus, or any number of those listed in Hebrews 11. What becomes evident before Yahweh becomes respected among men, even if only to trap one, Dan.3:8f, 6:16, Matt. 26:36f.

Jesus tells us that our Father knows our needs even before we ask. Therefore getting His attention and informing Him concerning provision are not an object of prayer. Daniel nine reveals this, Daniel understands that the time has come for Yahweh to restore Israel from captivity from reading the “books”. He then proceeds agreeing with Yahweh entering into prayer showing his understanding of the situation from the Scriptures, closing his prayer, verse 19 with "act on our behalf".

First thing needed to be understood status; we are sons since He who is in heaven is our Father. We inherit, obey, and represent not ourselves or the society common to those whose father originates from creation, First Adam. We inherit, obey, and represent the Creator, our Heavenly Father, whose name is Holy. The definition of Holy from the context of Scripture means separate, not the same as what is in apposition to it, in this case the earth/ creation and the Fallen social structure.

Our next understanding derives from the first. If we are children of another reality the contrast between Kingdom reality and Fallen reality becomes the directive for prayer as it did for Daniel, “on earth the same way as it is in Heaven". Therefore our first request / concern intensifies out of our desire, our mourning, our hunger and thirst for righteousness, and the other aspects of our new and different character. As we grow into mature sons our understanding of Kingdom principles will become clearer. And as I said in “Acting as His Son” Yahweh bestows upon us His authority when we understand His goals, ways, [Isaiah 55: 8-9, 1st Corth.2:11-16] and respond with independent - not rebellious independence but with likeminded responsibility as He would, John 5:19f, 14:12f because we are His interdependent body 1st Corth.12.
Just what does this mean?

These things I have written to you who believe
In the name of the Son of God,
In order that you may know that you have eternal life.
And this is the confidence which we have before Him,
That, if,
We ask anything according to His will,
He hears us.
And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask,
We know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him.
1st John 5:13-15

Our primal understanding concerning prayer unfolds out of the foundation that requesting from the Father is covenantal. After giving us the outline for prayer in Matt. Jesus continues to bring up the need to be growing, maturing, becoming single minded, and increasingly anxiety free. Part of understanding His will is knowing that we under His care and provision are known and our needs are understood by Him before we even have an inkling what they might be and they will be given. He does not want us to be occupied - anxiety driven when we come into His throne room. Our time with Him, our prayer should not be occupied with the desires of the flesh so to speak. Since we have been restored to the status of the Garden the provisional aspects of our sustenance should increasingly resemble more the faith that our Father will not starve or destroy us through any lack even while in this fallen world. Therefore our concerns need to grow in focus with the needs of restoration/ reconciliation,2nd Corth.5:18-21 and it follows that our prayers will reflect that.

Keep asking, seeking, and knocking. These concepts echo the turning points of repentance throughout Salvation History. A couple of examples 2nd Chron.15:12-15, Jeremiah 29:12f. Throughout Salvation History individuals or the Nation of Israel buried under the justice of the Covenant’s curse who call out receive an answer of Salvation. Psalm 119:1-8 tells us that the object of this continued seeking is keeping diligently Torah resulting in a blameless life. The Covenant conditions of Yahweh’s promises are eternal as testified to by John

If we confess our sins,
He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins
And to cleanse us from all
Unrighteousness.
1st John 1:9

With each disciplinary confession we grow. Maturity is reflected in wisdom engendering trust and greater responsibility. Our heart conforming to Yahweh’s desires increasingly pours out intercessions from the change of our will away from earthly actions. We begin to seek the higher thoughts through the mind of Christ. We start to instigate together as the intergraded members of His Body activities based upon heaven’s principles. And when the task becomes larger then us, seeking of the Father’s direction becomes habitual instead of a desperate cry of despair.

A few years back I was shown this in a vision;

It was early morning in a deep old growth forest. To one side sits a man on a stump. As the sun rises another man comes into sight carrying a crosscut two man saw. The second man begins to cut down this huge tree. The first man asks if he could help. No I can do this is the response. As the sun rises and it gets warmer the man cutting away takes of a layer of clothing starting to break a sweat. Long about 10:00 comes break time and the saw blade has just cut through the bark. After the man with the saw takes his break the one on the stump asks again if he could help. The msn now striped off a couple more layers and is feeling the load of his task still turns down assistance. Lunch comes around the man with the saw has cut deep enough to begin to get sawdust from the wood. Again the man on the stump asks if he could assist, receiving a negative response. This continues throughout the day until nearly sun down. Finally just before giving up the man on the stump asks if he could help the man with the saw said ok. So the man on the stump went over took the handle on the other side and with one clean effortless draw of the saw the tree fell!
The man on the stump is Jesus waiting for us to ask His assistance. The task under His hand was achieved through His effort. But until He is allowed to join in the task is beyond our completion.

At the time of the vision the application needed was to surrender to Jesus’ assistance. Since then the application points to upon entering the work of the Kingdom I/we need at the start of any task climb up on the stump with Jesus and begin to seek His direction and when He heads towards the trees grab a hold of the other side of the saw He has put the blade to.

So using the imagery of this vision, applied to Jesus’ outline directive, prayer becomes first and foremost taking a hold of the King’s saw and standing across from Him as He picks the trees and hold on tight as He takes down obstacles with one fall swoop. The directive of “on earth the same way as it is in Heaven” does not allow for men agreeing between one another receiving the seal of approval from Heaven. But unmistakably points us to more of a Daniel application. We study the Scriptures. We come to understand Yahweh’s will. Upon understanding His will we see the contrast between Heaven’s rule and begin to correct discrepancies between Heaven’s doing and earth’s doing and where the abilities of man are lacking He is on the other end of the saw providing what we need to endure in His task. More to come.
Pastor Art

Interesting...

2005-12-27T10:44:00.000-08:00

Christmas fell on a Sunday this year. A double Sabbath of sorts, and Hanukkah began on that same day as well. Making it a triple Sabbath. Remeber the LORD's day and keep it holy! Isaiah 58: 12-14...yet many churches cancelled services. Interesting.

Jonah - "The Bigoted Prophet"

2005-12-21T11:33:00.000-08:00

I know this concept will cause reaction like someone touching a hot stove. The thought of bigotry placed upon a Prophet and one of Hebrew bloodlines at that, smacks of deep anti - Semitism. Sorry this is not the case here! Truth be told, unless we in Christendom do not begin to return to the “hearts of the Father’s” Mal.4:6 Yahweh will, “smite the land with a curse” when Malachi conveyed this warning the hearers understood the “fathers” to be Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and the “sons” those within the commonwealth of Israel, of which we as “Christians” have been grafted into, adopted … Gal.3:29. With this in mind Malachi warns us from the Torah as should any true Prophet, based upon Deut.5:16 and expounded upon in Deut.21:18-21.

This dynamic reflects the purposed, “Bigotry of Jonah”. Jonah three days being digested, repenting concerning turning his back towards Yahweh by heading to Tarshish is well known and so important that Jesus confirms the actuarial happening of this event by tying His resurrection to Jonah’s belly flop. Joke aside the second scene gets little attention and entails the “deeper” aspect of Jonah’s experience.

What motivates Jonah’s trip to Tarshish? Yahweh’s response to Jonah after the repentance of Nineveh, “Do you have good reason to be angry?”, Jonah 4:4 appears to be Yahweh’s intended revelation for Jonah. This instruction within obedience can be seen in Gen.22. Like Abraham Israel had become comfortable as the, “chosen people” and if human nature is consistent, had developed a twisted understanding concerning this standing. Jonah speaks to the inhabitants of Nineveh a incomplete message. Annihilation of the “un - chosen ones” those outside “the elect” people are getting what they deserve since they are among those born to be outside the grace of the “elect”.

Upon hearing the words of Jonah the people and the King, “called a fast and put on sackcloth from the greatest to the least of them. When the word reached the king of Nineveh, he arose from his throne, laid aside his robe from him, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. And he issued a proclamation…” 3:5f. These people who heard one the one aspect of a prophetic message responded with, “who knows, God my turn and relent,…”. and Yahweh did. Jonah’s response “he became angry”. Jonah continues to reveal to us from his prayer that he most have been told to speak the complete prophetic message of this is the offence grieving Yahweh if you will turn from the offence then Yahweh will relent from the action He has planed… awaiting your response; Yahweh. The interaction in chapter 4 tells us that Jonah knew that this mission would end in the response that Nineveh responded with, and this revealed Jonah’s deep seated bigoted attitude for those who were not Israel. These people can not be elect You chose certain ones to be Your elect I refuse to waist my time on the damned You only chose us. Evidently Yahweh made known to Jonah in his calling to go to Nineveh that He would have compassion upon Nineveh, ver.11. Jonah knew that everyone could receive the grace of Yahweh there were none select, 4:1-2. The prophet message of Yahweh applies to all, appeals to all, even if only an incomplete message is spoken. The people and their ruler knew that opposite concepts are true even if a proclaimer speaking incompletely falls short of complete truth.

Abraham was tested concerning his reliance upon Isaac as the promise therefore setting upon him the status of an idol or reliance upon Yahweh who gave Isaac as an instrument of the promise. Jonah in being sent to Nineveh was being tested about the understanding of the “elect”. Unfortunately, his reaction revealed the misconception about election that stills exists to this day. Election is a closed predetermined situation embodied and defined as being born into the Nation of Israel in Jonah’s day. Unfortunately that bigotry seemed to continue up to Jesus’ day because He says in reaction to this, He can make sons of Abraham from rocks. The heart of Jonah speaks today forgetting or negating in some way the Covenant mandates from Torah that “any outsider ’none elect’ defined by ethnic identity who chooses to take up the identity of Israel through coming under the covenant rejecting their former life can enter and they become full citizens to be treated as natural born - “elect”. The sign in the days of old was “circumcision” of the body. However, even then Moses and the Prophets declared that the outward sign needed to be deeper as deep as the heart, a rending of the very nature of a man achieved only through the Holy Spirit’s abiding to give the newly elected the strength to continue until the end. This election is based upon one vote an up or down conformation. The one running for office has a constitute base of One. That voter being King and Creator of all - sovereign over the realm made by His hands cannot be influenced or bribed or promised any thing that would add to His status. Therefore He is impervious to influence beyond His plan. For us to receive His vote we must agree that surrender to His sovereign statous elects us to rule with Him. At this reasoning together with Him our election clenching vote fulfills Yahweh’s plan and another elected one enters Heaven, Isaiah 1:18-20.

Run the campaign that insures victory or…. The choice is yours. Modern Jonahs the belly of the fish is dark and designed to devour, cry out join the vomit on the beach prophecy!
Pastor Art

2005-12-20T18:25:00.000-08:00

ok guys,
i give up,
it's over, burn me at the stake
i believe that YHWH gave us a choice to accept or reject him,
i believe the reformation was a rebellious action, rooted in incidental response to corruption that needed to end, but not correct theology to endure all time.
i believe that if you reject Jesus, after you go to an alter, and do not repent before you die, a lake of fire will be your eternal home.
i believe that we've been given the ablility to think and have coherent understanding of the character, nature, and message of our God through the scriptures
i believe i can quench the Holy Spirit by resisting His conviciton, rejecting the grace of His Son, and breaking the Father's sovereign heart who desires me to be with Him.
i could go on, but i hear the inqusition coming...oh, I'm sorry...not the inquisition, the geneva police department, soon I will be cast out of the city, and as the goat, die in the wilderness...
pastor Art

My Basic Beliefs

2005-12-20T12:19:00.000-08:00

for those of you who may have missed this...

Sovereignty of Yahweh [God]

First of all thinking through an issue is a rare exercise today. We live in an illiterate society, we increasingly exchange information orally and pictorially through the popular media decreasing investigation. Without investigation and research we become an authoritarian society leading to anarchy in turn giving rise to tyrannical leadership. I have subbed in the public school system and my wife is an educator. Over the last 25 - 30 years we have watched this development understanding the ramifications for the future. History shows that as literacy and inquiry dissipate and the “whys” of anything are eliminated and become the standard of a culture that culture will no longer endure. Increasingly if we ask anyone why concerning an issue there is not an answer thought out or based on facts. Please read my post, of April 27, 05, ‘Plagues in the Harvest Field’ for a short outline of what I see in Scripture concerning ‘Sovereignty’.
The debate concerning this idea blinds our eyes to the ‘full Gospel’ or the ‘whole council of God’. After reading ‘Plagues in the Harvest Field’ one sees that I understand Yahweh’s sovereignty different then the classic ‘Calvinist’. By the way as I entered the Kingdom “baby in Christ” I was a double predestination fatalistic, Catholic hating person. As I began to read wider and because I did not, and still do not have a position to defend (read my complete profile) the Scriptures led me away from this understanding, Romans 6:17b, “…You become obedient from the heart to the form of teaching to which you are committed…” and even to this day with a restored mind guided by Christ’s mind I seek the weaving of the Scripture’s truth forming a complete tapestry of their teaching not a positional watchtower to defend from oncoming teachings outside the walls of my personal view of Scripture. [Although there are orthodox standards for which I would die]
Part of what seems to rule the ‘defending God’s Sovereignty’ issue stems from foundational flaws in our understanding Yahweh’s control or the nature of man. Theses two concepts depend upon one another forming a necessary agreement in the same way a cadence in music begs for tonic resolve.
If total depravity of man means utter unresponsiveness then that view of man does need a god who is unwavering, issuing edicts that have no bearing on the response of man. However, if man is a digressing creature starting from the perfect good estate described as man is before the fall and can respond to the Father’s call through the convection of the Holy Spirit, as Scripture suggests. Then the god who interacts with His creation is revealed within this system. Moreover, on the other side of the pendulum’s swing if we have man as neutral or good even after the Fall seen as entering into this world with a clean slate lacking knowledge. The god in this system becomes a feeble teacher of some type, straining unknowingly and impotent. This God unendingly tries to figure out what we will do with the information, and unable to effectually change His created order in reality has no sovereign authority at all.
Genesis tells us creation started perfect. After the perfect creation digressive degenerating evil leading to death entered creation. Jesus confirms this indicating as we approach His second coming the Earth will deteriorate to the point that if He did not intervene then there would be no life on this earth Matt.24:22. The natural order testifies to this as well ponder the first two laws of thermodynamics; perfect state leading to increasing degenerated condition without outside intervention.
As creatures formed in His image we are given abilities reflective of His. This natural/ finite mix of characteristics includes our ability to choose freely between contrasting actions. Free will choice contrary to many arguments does not mean we can choose to control Yahweh read Gen. 11:1-9 and Matt.6:10. Our choices do have predictable/ predestined outcomes - cause and effect. Otherwise our actions would not be choices but instinctive reactions to stimuli or mindless programmed activity like Pavlov and his dogs.
Scripture says after the choice to listen to Lucifer, betraying their Creator, First Man and First Woman exchanged the glory of the Creator for the glory of the created, Rom.1:18-25. An exchange needs actual understanding. The predestined outcome at that time not completely understood but which had to be believed by obedient faith becomes revealed fully in the resultant condition of the earth today and throughout history. We who inherit 1st Adam’s estate now fully comprehend the concept of death which at the time was not revealed, but spoken plainly in the primary Covenant, upheld by free choice,
“Then God said, ‘ Behold I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the surface of all the earth, and every tree which has fruit yielding seed; it shall be food for you;’ [Gen.1:29]…And Yahweh God commanded the man, saying, ‘From any tree of the garden you my eat freely; [choice- decision from a free will with options that are not perceptive but actual or man’s children are then not culpable for the outcome. Therefore the inheritance of death and the grave can not be passed on unless each and every one of us has this particular choice]. We inherit the first Adam’s faithless disobedience and its predestined outcome because a ‘covenant’ obligates the family of those who agree together. Therefore the unseen outcome was secret in its completeness to Adam. However, his response to the ‘covenant’ through hope and faith was to trust and obey Yahweh’s Word this can not be expected of one mindlessly acting on a plan he can not participate cognitively in, Habk.2:4,Rom.8:24-25, Heb.11:1,1st Peter 1:3-22.
The response by us who now covenant with the 2nd Adam by freely choosing to turn away from the household of the 1st Adam [slavery of sin Rom.6] must trust through faith and obedience [after salvation] John 15:10 1st John 5, Romans 6. Deut.29:25-29, Col.1:13-29 cognitively for this outcome to be valid, speak of Yahweh’s secret things revealed. Deuteronomy 29:25-29, speaking specifically about Israel in their post Exilic/Saved/Delivered condition reveals the principle example of man able to make actual choices with opposing outcomes. The participant observed is said to have turned away from the Covenant with Yahweh suffering the unforeseen anger . As in the Garden the issue focuses on faith and our persevering and trusting. This we show by our obedience until the full revealing of the secret things, at Christ‘s return. Paul in Colossians most of chapter one, tells us that the veil has been moved revealing that part of this secret of the Father’s heart was the sending of His Son predestined since before the foundations of the world. The outcome of this predestined plan frees men under the inherited curse of 1st Adam. This transfer or imputed inheritance stems from our own free will to choose with better understanding of the outcome of the fruit of the knowledge of good and evil. If we want to be released from the house of Sin’s slavery we answer the conviction of the Father‘s drawing through His Holy Spirit John 16:8-15,Rom. 6. And as per my earlier post we see that this is done smack dab in the middle of the kingdom of Lucifer who at this time rules our steward kingdom Earth, through his lying thieving temptation of which 1st Adam gave in. In fact God’s Devil most likely blinded to the secret things of Yahweh sealed his own doom by hanging the fruit of life - Jesus, on a tree of death. He Jesus, afterward claimed His Sinless inheritance through Resurrection. He being the First Fruits of redemption offers redemption to who so ever will 1st John 2:23,4:13-16 [reflecting Isaiah 43:10-13’s prophecy explained by the Witness -Yeshua in John 5:18-47, 13:13-20, and Acts 5:29-32, and Acts 13:16-39]. The issue of sovereignty of Yahweh viewed from individual, predestine choiceless control, in truth weakens Yahweh and indicates He acts out of fear for of His Throne and His position.
God-Yahweh is free to do as He pleases, as per Scripture. He pleased Himself to allow us ‘made in His image’ Gen.1:27, to be able to reflect His image. He fearlessly allowed us our choice in the Garden.
We now choose our eternal condition. Considerable experience, gained after eating the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, aids our decision to believe Him or not, Colo.1:13-29 and provides evidence that the promises of the conditions awaiting us in eternity have predestined reality because He decided before hand that those who would not choose to follow His Word after the knowledge of good and evil was revealed and experienced will have no place in eternity with Him; but spend it in Hell.
The result of 1st Adam’s choice surrounds us. On the other hand however, by choosing to eat the fruit of the tree of death - the Cross, we receive ‘life’. Life, explained through the Scriptures, in this day carries the same veiled understanding as death did to the Garden rulers. Therefore, Yahweh’s wisdom allowed His highest created life form (to use SiFi termenalgy) the freedom to either accept or reject his condition while surrounded in the splender of pristeen pre - Fall environment. 1st Adam chose the unknown over the revealed. Moreover as the unknowen aspects of ‘good and evil’ became reality Yahweh knew through His omnipotence the children of 1st Adam would not want to exist in the world filled with Sin because its outcome would be death and we were created for life. Beyond that Yahweh in His Mercy and compassion will put an end to the misery of His people so that we can live Shalom with Him.
True to His nature, Yahweh continues to offer unencumbered choices. However, at this time the outcome of turning away from His Sovoreign lordship surrounds us. We, as they, have no less freedom to choose acceptance of Yahweh’s Word. Part of the difference lies as this time eternity is at stake. Another contrast, lays in what our eyes see. At this time we see what is fading 2nd Corinthians 4:16-18. Our hope rests on the unseen of which we will inherit through faith both defined in Scripture as unseen and unfading. And even creation groans waiting the revealing of what we will be.
What about individuals? Does the Soveriegnity of Yahweh contradict what I have already expressed? Does He fatalistically, like a game of enie menie minie moe chose the damed one by the toe, and if he hollers make him pay 50 more degrees of fire in hell every day? Sound ridicules? Of corse! But I ask you when we apply this same logic to Theological thought can we call it ‘Sound Doctrine‘? Does Yahweh who loves His creation and jealousy contends for us even though we are enemies truly choose damned beloveds?
Adam and Eve both had to succumb to the temptation before Sin, its rule, and its instagater could complete the exchange of truth for the lie, Romans 1:24-25. This condition embodies the promise given to them as a result of their disobeadance and was not a direct punishment. The direct punishment in Yahweh’s plan is enacted after men chooses the second death, rejecting the fruit of life Jesus. This is as true as the law of gravity’s promise displays interaction between failure of a toddler and his first encounter of falling and deliberate jumping off of a bridge in a suicide attempt. Gravity holds us secure to the earth for our welfare. However, if we chose to misuse or go against the promise of gravity and step off of a cliff or tall building the result brings death not life. Yahweh’s warning in the Garden spoken to man as protection told what would happen if/when the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil were eaten. This warning like a toddler’s fall produces a scrape or broken bone and in the repair and healing the damage becomes worse before complete restoration happens. You know tearing bleeding scabbing leading to new skin ect. 1st Adam’s eating produced the wound to man that become fatal to him. Our Father needed to provide a skin graft - Jesus, we know the story incarnation. We now know the outcome, when a child misbehaves there is punishment. To reject Christ and His healing skin graft will lead to punishment - Hell.
Man today has the same capacity of Yahweh’s nature/image to choose to stay in the condition or exchange this for the promise of something unseen. The image of the Cross displayed before the nations is the fruit. To be sure the perspective and nature we have at this time of our choosing is not the same as “In the beginning”. In the Garden the Holy Spirit dwelled within, at the time of ones salvation the Holy Spirit is the instrument of the Father’s call on our life from without. Once we surrender to His call He then enters our lives providing strength to persevere until Jesus returns - the end. However, the outcomes are not any different! Here the Doctrine of the nature of man as Sinful is the difficulty. ‘Total depravity’ generally/ popularty understood depicts Man as completely Hell bent without either a desire or capacity to do otherwise. Many of the Scripture texts used for this view in context say something different.
Let us examine the context of what seems to be a classic text on this subject and what I see as the short comings of both sides of this argument. As with any argument people on their own side find proofs that support their thinking or the of the school of thought they either grew up in or are identifying with, Romans 6:17. I must say this here; as any other person Romans 6:17 applies to me, however while growing in Christ He drove me through circumstances, and by my own imquisitivness to explore and participate in conflecting schools of thought within the Body of Christ I have come to understand the Gospel prism revealing the many hues of the one true Light. When I entered the “Church” from a Pagan lifestyle and worldview I looked at Jesus’ people in confusion and unbelief. Jesus, Paul, John, and the other writers of Scripture through the Holy Spirit command us to Agope one another telling us that our many parts are of the whole and interdependent and necessary (many places in Scripture). But walking among the members of His Body these many years revealed how broken and suspicious we are. The mind of Christ like the natural mind must be connectd or there is brain damage leading to handicapping, illness, retadation, and many other conditions unfavorable! His Spiritural Body The Church is not any different. Therefore while maturing the many schools of thought have become an influence upon my understanding not because I am accommodating but because my ignorance and seeking lead me to understand that we fight over aspects of the weaving of His revealing instead of submitting ourselves to the understanding that the fullness of Christ’s mind resides in our reciving His full counsel revealed finitly within systems of Theology. These systems express a particular aspect or brain cells if you will that need connection through the Holy Spirit (oh no a charismatic), 1st Chorinthians 2:6-16. When the brain has growth that conflicts with its overall function it is known as a tumor and needs elimination. In the same way as a cloud blocks the light needed for the prism to exposes the complete beauty of the one true light certain theological concepts impede the full revealing of Christ’s light/mind. I think I will refrain from exegetical sword fighting except this example.
Psalm 115:3 is an example of finding a section of the mind of Christ disconnected. This one verse standing alone is used as a nail to join two flopping pices of wood building nothing because there is not connection beyond the enclosed words. This is like examining the DNA of a man to have a relationship with him.
Alone this verse can say that God - Yahweh does as He pleases acting with a predestined ununderstood outcome of which we have no right to question. But, BUT is that the context?! I do not think that to be the case.
The complete Psalm speaks about the contrast between worshiping what we create, see Jeremiah 10:2-15 and worshiping Who created us. Yahweh does what He pleases because He is alive and Sovereign where as idles are not and, ‘[We] who fear Yahweh, trust in Yahweh, He is our help and our shield.’ He is mindful of us; He will bless us;.. verses 11and 12a. A classic Arminian could use this section to prove that Yahweh is influenced by our interaction with Him. Which is correct? BOTH! both are part of the Mind of Christ revealing the heart of the Father Isaiah 40:5, John 14:6,23-26 who by the conviction of the Holy Spirit reveales to the Nations Colo.1:13-29 His Hesed Lovingkindness, mercy, grace, wrath, justice, and predestined plan of the Shepard laying down His life on behalf of the Father for His sheep Ezk.34, John 10, all the offspring of first Adam hearing the call, John 1:12-13, Rom.10:8-20, Acts 2:21,17: 30-31, John 3:15, even through the depravity of the nature of Sin now blinds us darkens our hearts Rom.1:19-22 . When we respond to the Father’s drawing He frees us from the house of sin’s slavery and takes us into the Father’s house freed from sin. We hear the call of eternity placed in our heats, Ecclesiastes 3:11 remaining as a point of contact between us and our Creator for the conviction of the Holy Spirit drawing us to the Father because He desires that none should parish and through the Chosen One, Christ who from the foundations of the world deturmiond to fufill the plan of the Father that we should love Him not from an unalterable state making us like the idles lifeless. But from a chosen love that will not turn again away from His love.
We stand before the scared Yeshua who like His namesake stands before the gathered Nation asking who will we follow chose you this day, we in our rebellion in the same way as Isreal at Mont Carmal waver between two choices, if Baal is lord then… if Yahweh is lord choose this day; real or illusory?
Yahweh, without fear of enchrochment upon His Srovereign place on the Throne created us in His image. This image not mearly a physical form makes us His representatives in the Earth. He Created this earth for us to rule as He rules the rest of creation. Yahweh does not fear our stewardship rule because we can not make choices contrary to His perfect redemptive plan therefore overriding His place, His Sovereign Godhood, because we are not eternal beings but finite. This being true then we who study and teach His word must refrain from adding to the clear complete instruction in an attempt to defend our Creator lest we become like Eve unable to withstand the cleaver temptations of the sceaming liar because we missed the truth of all the trees for the fear of the single tree. Or as the old proverb says we miss the forest for the tree [s]. Step back please from the trees take in the beauty of the forest, the fragrence of the whole council of Yahweh is the sweet smelling incence before His throne!
Beruchnu Beshem Yeshua Hamesheah
Pastor Art

Concorddance Cowardice

2005-12-14T15:51:00.000-08:00

Let’s see how does that go…? This is my precept my conclusion … now.. flapping pages or clicking an electronic devise of some type that match’s the conclusion .. Oh yes let me past that in … that ought to do it!!! There take that…. Wait a minute better add a couple more .. And so it goes!

This is what I call concordance cowardice. Instead of understanding “truth” and conveying ones understanding in conversant ways the “CC” cuts and pasts often out of context and unrelated sections of scripture like the judges gavel. Intellectual exchange and real discovery become a mist. Understanding develops in the exchange of process so that the “rule” of logic can be applied therefore producing actual learning not mindless memorization. Do we want to understand or dismiss? Do we reject that those “on the other side” have any validity? Are we afraid they truly understand something we refuse to face to save face? We can use the “truth” we know to quote against what we do not understand. Honest intellectual inquiry investigates truth claims not dismissing them with labels or jargon of impersonal detachment - they, this group.

Understanding moves beyond answering questions with either, “true - false” or “either - a b c or all of the above” or “none of the above” responses. Questioning becomes useful in finding foundational aspects of coherency leading to identifying reality or fantasy. However, precepts lead to conclusions. Conclusions are derived from applicationual experience from long - view reality not incidental reflex. Following narrative truth dictates the opening or starting point that shows us the seed if you will of the mature conclusion. A seed is not the plant, during the growth process, however the opening and revealing aspects do not betray the maturity of the plant from the seed form during growth. Planting an apple seed expecting figs represents the mindset more in - line with evolution where jumping kinds is expected. Information within the thought world must follow this same dictate. Concepts in seed form growing to maturity, by this illustration, by necessity must relate to itself. This reality matches the philosophic concept of non- contradiction. This is basic to conveying ideas from one mind to another. Biblical exegesis represents [should] the same study system a botanist would use to study and convey the lifecycle of a plant from seed to fruit. The object of study for the Theologian is the Bible. The student of Scripture must work from this body of work the same way the botanist does; following the seed to maturity. The body of writing given us from Yahweh is complete and sealed totally observable. The logical consistency of Genesis has to carry through to Revelation the same way the seed produces fruit from the mature plant.

Scripture narrates for us the condition of man, his origins, his current condition, his relationship with his creator, and the reestablishing the pre -Fall relationship between the two, leading to the closing restoration pictured in Revelation. The narrative has related streams of storyline, one being the altered nature of the created as sub - plot influencing the main theme Covenant relationship between Yahweh and Man. Man came into this state by the disobedience of Yahweh’s Covenantal choice, Genesis 2:16-17, where the seed of “choose you this day life or death” repeated continually through out the body of work of Yahweh’s desire commonly know as the Old and New Covenants not decrees. Yahweh’s Sovereignty and foreknowledge are first encountered here; IF…THEN. There is nothing irresistible or editorial in this exchange, this exchange is IF…THEN covenant seed of Man and Yahweh‘s informed co operational relationship. The same can be identified in Book of Revelation 22:10-15, those who chose Christ and those who do not. Also in this mix is Lucifer who influences man to turn away in the Garden and continues until he is imprisoned eternally at the closing of the narrative. This reflects what Paul later says, “But thanks be to God that though you were slaves of sin [original state inherited from 1st Adam] you became obedient from the heart to the form of the teaching to which you were committed” , Romans 6:17. “Commitment” does not result from irresistible edicts but from informed free moral choices. Part of the understanding of what a slave is reflects irresistible obedience through ignorance and / or fear - phobic action. Jesus clearly reinstates us who abide in Him back to the “friend / son status therefore saying His choosing us originates from abiding which has to be the result of deliberate activity otherwise the condition is captivity, the status of a slave, John 15:4-17. The primal dynamic unfolds pointing to the main interaction between the two main characters Yahweh and Adam / Mankind, of choose you this day life or death. This informed Covenantal principle becomes the ruling interaction between Yahweh and His Image - Man throughout time.

We are in our current condition as result of Adam, “our father / head” turning away from life and choosing death. In so doing his offspring inherit death and become totally depraved. Unlike the doctrinal teaching of one school of Theological thought coming out of Medieval Europe, reacting to heretical teaching on the nature of man of the time, this concept from the Biblical corpus, does not explain a human race debouched beyond any comprehension of the choice set before them, as attested by the Covenant continues to unfold throughout history. Detractors will say what about sections of Scripture that say things like their hearts are evil they continually chose evil … the reason that Yahweh is so distressed over this derives from the altered growing plant from the seed He formed out of the ground. The seed of Adam has now been infused with genetic material foreign to the intended “kind” “Man made in His image and likeness” moreover as the curse of sin and death increase Yahweh’s image of which Man is to be decreases. What this statement infers is that the “totality” of man’s nature has been effected by Sin. Man’s thinking as well as his worship/spiritual understanding, his physical existence and any other label tagged upon the body horizontal on the gurney in the morgue. Scripture tells us that all of creation became under the curse of death because creation under the rule of Man can not be “greater then his/its master” John 13:16. Man even though ruler and highest of the created order is creation all the same.

His / Man’s condition must then be dictated by the laws of creation. The first two ruling laws of thermodynamics indicate [ simplest understanding] that creation, this includes Man is dissipating from a completed/ perfect state into a future heat - death where there will be no energy to exchange to produce heat enabling work to be instigated. Man is not exempted from this order/law/ condition of creation. The Scripture account of Genesis 1-3 agrees with this founded truth, explaining it from the Creator’s perspective instead of from the perspective of sciencetific theory. Within the narrative Jesus says this, “We must work the works of Him who sent Me, as long as it is day; night is coming, when no man can work.” John 9:4 heat death will eventually extinguish our sun. We have a problem here in this statement of the Creator in - fleshed if total depravity means “unable to respond with any moral response”. Jesus tells His hearers a time is coming not a current condition. This follows the evidence of outside sources, used as proof in other points of the narrative - such as the Resurrection, that Sin has caused a deteriorating effect upon man. The quickest observable aspect can be seen in the most temporal aspect of creation, the physical - our bodies. Jesus regularly uses the natural to illustrate the eternal; read any of His parables. Paul tells us that before salvation we are capable of understanding the thoughts of a man, this understanding falls under that category. He goes on to say that now that we have begun to “abide” in Him we have the Holy Spirit who combines the wisdom of our Creator with the wisdom of man - which we have not lost nor should we cast it out nor is all of it falsehoods - making us doubly wise or complete - restored to the lifecycle of the primal seed, 1st Corth.211f. These Scriptural indicators point to total depravity as the complete nature of man being under the curse not that man is incapable of any moral judgment as result of the curse. Study cultural history there is in every social setting boundaries of decency. The very fact that governments have a judicial structure derives from the need after the Fall to reign in the evilest among us. The culture wars the encrochment of modernity upon socity and the Church gives further evidence to this dieing / sin killing creation. Depravity although in all its forms is not “new” it is increasing and permeating our social structures almost daily as acceptable, lending more proof. Sometime in the future there will come a time where no man can work the works of Yahweh. David lamented this in Psm. 11:3 with his question.

Saying that man can still make decisions reflecting his being made in Yahweh’s image that are merciful etc is a far cry from Pelagian heresy teaching that man does not have original sin from birth and therefore not evil only needing some form of reform not intervention through the shed blood through the death of Jesus. This concept is as incorrect as the aspects derived from reaction to the Medieval Church’s divergent Theology embodied by the Protestant - Reformers. Scriptural evidence and experiencal evadence - from environmental science, history, and social sciences are consistently pointing to a deteriorating condition within their disciplines, agreeing with the Scripture‘s evidence earlier explored.

Does this mean that activity / works performed by mankind accumulate merit towards negotiation of ones Salvation? No more then we created ourselves in the first place! The foundation contained in Scripture pertaining to our relationship with Yahweh is Covenantial not by edicts or irresistible grace resultant from foreknowledge. These two systems of Salvation as perceived in the debates do not blend or complament one another. The question comes down to which represents the God revealed in the Scriptures: the Scriptures as a whole. How did Yahweh approach Adam and Eve, Noah, Abraham, speak through Moses to Isreal, and ultimately to the Nations? Through unresistable edicts or by way of Covenantal choice based on cooperative understanding? Logic applied from Scripture supports only one since they contradict one another. Holding to one or the other dictates our concepts of sanctification, worship, prayer, discipleship, and every other aspect of Kingdom life.
Pastor Art

A Response

2005-12-09T17:00:00.000-08:00

As the blog discussion continues the tactic I see most often used is turning away from the issue at hand, in this particular case the of manor and mode of Salvation, to any other topic one feels like bringing up. The topic my wife and I are involved with at the time is “how is salvation rendered upon man!!” The options are first: fatalistic blind unpredictable we will see at the end. Or second: Tthere is information put forth to choose from and the choice determines the outcome for a surrendered repentant one.
Whether or not one claims to hold strictly to the classical Calvinistic 5 points, logic dictates that to reject any point is to reject the whole in other words: one has to hold to all or none of the five points because they rely upon one another or you have a different system and the argument can not be true because it contradicts itself within its own closed system of definitions) To diverge but related if as the classic what ever point reformed viewpoint . If decrees and determined predestined foreknowledge is the ruling mandate why Scripture and Covenants? These two systems of redemptive activity depict different gods with different goals achieved through different means . A couple of words, in context, applied to a group dynamic at that, has become the filter. Moreover, from the Greek application in the LXX conveying the Hebrew foundation of definition, these words do not convey that narrow an application - application to an individual, if studied exegetically instead of from a tradition tainted guidance of meaning deriving as reaction to apostate concepts in an historical moment. A scholar I have heard of, read articles by, and heard interviewed over the last few years is changeling much the same points - N.T. Wright. This challenge has occurred more then once in the History of the Western Church. The God of the Bible is a Covenant making God. Covenant making is defined by cooperative interaction with the parties involved. A covenant with Yahweh has been the mainstay of understanding among believers and unbelievers since Cain. This is what separates “the in group” - saved from “the out group“ - unsaved. The nature of Yahweh as a Covenant making and keeping God. We respond, choose. That is the nature of a covenant, for Scripture proof see Gen.1:1 - Rev. 22:21.
And as far as the mantra response argument that salvation is not by our works and the rest of that list, the last time I looked, acknowledgement of helplessness with unconditional openhanded surrender after exhausting all other courses of action does not constitute works. If one does not come to that understanding then he can not be saved because he thinks he can bring something to the table to negotiate with, thereby disqualifying him as being a recipient of Grace. Moreover, in truth the very goal of the Holy Spirit’s general/ Prevenient Grace John 16:8-11 is to convict ALL MEN, NOT A CHOSEN GROUP of their sin. Full surrender is admitting everything attempted prior to this point of defeated helplessness was futile. Acceptance of this condition revealed to men through the conviction of the Holy Spirit, means that death is the next step, for those still antagonistic to their condition, or restoration back to the condition where hostilities did not exists and there was peace Rom. 5:1-11, 2nd Corth.5:17-21, Eph.2:11-18, Colo.1:13-23. This in conjunction of the unseenness I have written about before of Hope and Faith, represents the condition we are in at the point of our choice to surrender once we understand our condition of war with our Creator and His offer of reconciliation once we acknowledge the condition of hopelessness we are in. This is what Paul is teaching in the heart of Romans and the theme of the Covenant finished upon the Cross. That entering into the household of Yahweh constitutes death - anyone understands death affords no effort from the dead one. Ie dead to Sin. This foundational precept permeates Scripture. And this is why historically since the reformation the Holy Spirit through His prophets seeks to rise up the age old foundations. The Body of Christ outside of the West does not have this struggle splitting it into factions. He has appointed men to try to get the attention of those misrepresenting His doctrine/Covenant of Salvation time and time again. Remember the single issue here. The issue: redemption of man made in Yahweh’s image, an image representing cognition, morality, leading to although marred and dissipating from its perfect state until the day that there is nothing left of His image within man , “when no man can work”, John 9:4, restoration by reversing the choice at the foot of the tree in the Garden by the choice offered at the foot of the cross, displayed in the two thieves on the day of Christ’s death.
Pastor Art

First Christmas

2005-12-09T13:35:00.000-08:00

Two Babes in A Manger

In 1994, two Americans answered an invitation from the Russian Department of Education to teach morals and ethics (based on biblical principles) in the public schools. They were invited to teach at prisons, businesses, the fire and police departments, and a large orphanage. About 100 boys and girls who had been abandoned, abused, and left in the care of a government - run program were in the orphanage. They relate following story in their own words:

It was nearing the holiday season, 1994, time for the orphans to hear, for the first time, the traditional story of Christmas. We told them about Mary and Joseph arriving at Bethlehem. Finding no room in the inn, the couple went to a stable, where the baby Jesus was born and placed in a manger.

Throughout the story, the children and the orphanage staff sat in amazement as they listened. Some sat on the edges of their stools, trying to grasp every word. Completing the story, we gave the children three small pieces of cardboard to make a crude manger. Each child was given a small paper square, cut from yellow napkins I had brought with me. No colored paper was available in the city. Following instructions, the children tore the paper and carefully laid strips in the manger for straw. Small squares of flannel, cut from a worn - out nightgown an American lady was throwing away as she left Russia, were used for the baby’s blanket. A doll - like baby was cut from tan felt we had brought from the United States.

The orphans were busy assembling their manger as I walked among them to see if they needed any help. All went well until I got to one table where little Misha sat. He looked to be 6 years old and had finished his project. As I looked at the little boy’s manger, [I] was startled to see not one, but two babies in the manger. Quickly, I called the for the translator to ask the lad why there were two babies in the manger. Crossing his arms in front of him and looking at his completed manger scene, the child began to repeat the story very seriously. For such a young boy, who had heard the Christmas story once, he related the happenings accurately - until he came to the part where Mary put the baby Jesus in the manger.

Then Misha started to ad - lib. He made up his own ending to the story as he said, “And when Maria laid the baby in the manger, Jesus looked at me and asked me if I had a place to stay. I told him I had no mamma and I had no papa , so I didn’t have a place to stay. Then Jesus told me I could stay with him. But I told him I couldn’t, because I didn’t have a gift to give him like everybody else did. But l wanted to stay with Jesus so much, so I thought about what I had that maybe I could use for a gift. I thought maybe if I kept him warm, that would be a good gift. So I asked Jesus, “If I keep you warm, will that be a good gift?” and Jesus told me, “If you keep me warm, that will be the best gift anybody ever gave me.” “So I got into the manger, and then Jesus looked at me and he told me I could stay with him - for always.”

As little Misha finished his story, his eyes brimmed full of tears that splashed down his little cheeks. Putting his hand over his face, his head dropped to the table and his shoulders shook as he sobbed. The little orphan had found someone who would never abandon nor abuse him, someone who would stay with him - FOR ALWAYS.
I’ve learned that it’s not what you have in life, but who you have in your life that counts.

As sent to me a few years back.
Pastor Art

Christmas is Comming the Idol is Getting Fat!

2005-11-26T10:10:00.000-08:00

Christmas is Coming The Idol is Getting Fat!

There is a deep deep need for the noise of our culture, of modernity to turn off the rhetoric, the snake oil, carnie barker, atmosphere, calling itself the new thing Christianity to reach the unreaced and hear from the mouth that whispers softly in our stillness - the wilderness. What do we know about wilderness with the panorama of the horizon shadowing skyscrapers. The only thunder made comes from the jet which also is the only shaking people would relate to.

Yesterday the news opened with the report of “black Friday” I understand that the idea reflects the ledger “in the black” concept. But there was enough footage of crushing , pushing, shoving, and outright fighting concerning celebrating the “Prince of Peace” the day after “giving of thanks” supposedly to that same Person for His provision ect. The multitudes waited at the doors of “Tyre” - merchandisers - see Isaiah 23-24 and Ezekiel 27-28. The picture is that of the dreaded Anti - Christ system. This system is that which drives the “innovational” heartbeat in the chest of “Western Society”, “modernity”, and the Church within these social structures. I am reminded of an account of an orphan in the newly delivered USSR responding to hearing about the birth of Jesus for the first time. This abandoned child did not respond close to anything the news screen showed us. (I will post it as soon as I dig it out of storage.)

There is an end to this cultural rape of Heaven’s blessings, the Prophet’s words are replete with them, and the modern airwaves are echoing them in our ears. Today the Kings of the East come but not to find “The King of The Jews” but to empty the pockets of those who have ignored “The King of The Jews” to reinvent, innovate, and otherwise worship an idol of gold calling it Yahweh who has delivered Ex.32. The tenor and tambour of the celebration reflects that the King of the West is Tyre and her whore. And as the Church in this society has conformed and capitulated to her ways there is no other conclusion then …!!!

The towers have fallen! The winds have come! The waters risen! Cities lie deserted - desolate never to be fully inhabited in this lifetime maybe ever again! Plagues overtake us! Enemies inhabit our camp! Shall I go on, shall we go on, go on, go on, turning up our noses to Yahweh and His ways for the ways of Tyre?! Fight at the door of the Whore for her favor and rewords, and the punishment will be ours as well!!!
Silent night Holy night??? And they saw in the East…
Pastor Art

Christ in Us - Government Within His Body

2005-11-17T13:31:00.000-08:00

Authority

Government Within the Body

Returning to Matthew 18 concerning the “two or more” an honest appraisal of the immediate context and the wider context [chapters 17 &19] reveal that to place verses 18, 19, and 20 arbitrarily into a teaching about prayer distorts the flow of the author and reads into the three verses instead of taking from them. Isolating them from the flow of the context is a misquote, a type of contextual character assault and considered inappropriate.

The question then becomes what is our Lord trying to get across to us with this teaching? Part of the answer opens up to us from Jesus’ seminal instruction within “The Sermon on The Mount”. Jesus speaking for the first time as a teacher to a large group of people; according to our written record. Jesus in Matthew wants to make clear He submits to the Deut.13 warning. This instruction, foundational to discernment states,

If a prophet or a dreamer of dreams arises among you
and gives you a sign or a wonder,
And that sign or wonder comes true,
Concerning which he spoke to you, saying,
‘Let us go after other gods
(whom you have not known)
And let us serve them,’
You shall not listen to the words of that prophet or that dreamer of dreams;
For Yahweh your God is testing you
To find out if you love Yahweh your God
With all your heart and with all your soul.
Deut.13:1-3

Jesus making clear that He is not starting a “new thing” or turning the people away from the hearts of the Fathers Mal.4:4-6, knows His future “signs and wonders” will distract and blind many and wants to make clear He stands in the traditions of the Fathers. He therefore submits Himself to the test and discipline of the Scriptures, Heb.5, and presents Himself and His teaching to the test of Deut.13 in saying,

Do not think that I came to abolish the Law [Torah] or the Prophets;
I did not come to abolish, but to fulfill.
For truly I say to you,
Until the heavens and the earth pass away,
Not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass away
From the Law [Torah],
Until all is accomplished.
Whoever then annuls one of the least of these commandments,
And then so teaches others…
Matt.5:17-19

John after the incarnation event, of Jesus the Lamb of Yahweh in his dictation of Jesus’ post resurrection account of the future “passing away of the heavens and the earth” Rev.21:1warns us the reader echoing Deut.4:2 indicating that this warning covers all covenant instruction from Torah to Revelation,

I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book;
If anyone adds to them, God shall add to him the plagues
Which are written in this book;
And if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy,
God shall take away his part
From the tree of life
And from the holy city, which are written in this book.
Rev.22:18-19

Therefore, honesty to the context and the setting of the subject guides us in understanding that the instruction concerns community discipline and the order of Civil Legal activity given through the Holy Spirit to Moses for the benefit of Yahweh’s society on Earth, which includes us His Church.

In the opening of this section, Jesus is asked about the “greatest in the kingdom of heaven”. He proceeds to instruct His hearers concerning their inquiry. Perceiving their selfish underlying intent He first talks about dependence and status within the Kingdom. His example, a child. He places before them the need for unquestioning trust, innocence in dependence, and vulnerability as the standard of our place after conversion. Jesus wants to send home that as citizens of His Kingdom He alone rules and we are as children under His care. Moreover unless we understand this our actions trying to be “adult like” become stumbling blocks. The reason for this is evident in the contrast. An adult considering oneself independent, self capable, self sustaining, and so forth personifies the “world”. This reflects the idea of “you shall be like God” that the ruler of this world, Lucifer promotes, Gen 3:5. As I said earlier the sacrifice undertaken by us to keep ourselves from turning back appears to the world as crippling. Jesus then lets them know that the compassion and purpose of the Father is to seek and save those lost and defenseless.

Order in The Church

Now we come to order, within this Kingdom. What about relationships, maturity, disputes or discipline among us? Any of us who have spent time among children understand that perfect harmony only happens at nap time and that is if all are sleeping.

The people delivered out of Egypt were slaves for 400+ years. Slaves do not make decisions about social structure. The only structure slaves understand comes from that which their masters impose upon them. The son’s of Israel residing in the wilderness would soon take possession of a vast land. The millions of people freed from imposed order desperately needed instruction on how to become a society. This society needed to reflect the nature of Yahweh because they were His people, His subjects upon the Earth, and His possession among the Nations. Their culture most reflect their King’s character. His desire; Israel should become His Kingdom of priests to the Nations of the Earth, a Holy Nation. They out of fear refused, this is another subject, but the point is as Yahweh’s holiness in the Earth, they would have to act as He would towards one another and to “strangers”, Ex. 28:36-38, Lev.19:2, 20:26, Deut.7:6-12, 14:2, 26:16-19, 28:9-10 1st Peter 2:9-12. Moreover, in the days of Jesus’ walking among us He was again preparing His people to become Royal Priests 1st Peter 2:9-12 . He needed to reiterate His intentions to those who had ears to hear. He spoke prophetically referring back to Torah teaching establishing Kingdom standards. Just to what standard dose Jesus establish His prophetic instruction.

As Individuals

If your brother sins, go to him in private,
If he listens to you
You have won your brother.
Matt.18:15

Most offences and their actions, intentional or unintentional are between individuals. Establishing His standard for our interaction as individuals when wronged, Yahweh speaking through Torah says,

You shall not go about as a slanderer among your people,
And you are not to act against the life of your neighbor;
I am Yahweh.
You shall not hate your fellow countryman in your heart;
You may surely reprove your neighbor,
But shall not incur sin because of him
You shall not take vengeance,
nor bear any grudge against the sons of your people,
But you shall love your neighbor as yourself;
I am Yahweh.
Lev.19:16-18

We know from experience that slander grows in and atmosphere of innuendo, gossip, and rumor. These conditions fester in a social setting where people do not question or confront one another when there are offenses. Experience also gives rise to evidence that each time information passes to another person especially privately, that information tends to be altered. Therefore, speaking about a situation between people who are not involved in the offence, leaves the incident open for falsehood instead of resolution. Scripture speaks in many places to this,

Psalm 15:1-3, Psalm 101:5-7,
Prov.10:12 &18, Prov.11:12-13, Prov. 24:28-19, Prov. 25:18
Judgment because of, Jeremiah 9:4-9
Condition of disobedience and strife because this principle is overlooked,
2nd Corth.12:20, Eph. 4:30-32, 2nd Timothy 3:1-4,
James 4:11-12, 1st Peter 2:1-3
And many others.

The principle here embodies the “love your neighbor as yourself” command in Scripture’s voice. The world’s voice would impose upon us a weak ignoring of unholy conduct. The influence of the stumbling block of the world trips up many today with the mantra who are you to judge, or judge not, or you’re a Christian?, when practicing what Jesus clearly intends us to make a part of the social structure of His people. Conceder the strife embodied in the condition of the above lists and how most if not all, would disappear from our midst if we just acted from the authority Jesus’ instructions give us.

The reason for the mandates of Numbers 35:29-34, Deut.17:2f, Deut.19:15f, and other sections concerning the rule of the Kingdom among us here and now, shows Yahweh’s glory among unbelievers. This type of living contrasts the lifestyles of the world. Moreover this contrast causes people seeking Shalom to turn to Christ through our example. Taking a dispute, unsettled between individuals, before other witnesses insures that slander is not propagated, because of partiality of one type or another. Clark speaks about this and informs us of the historical understanding of those being instructed;

Whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth - This mode of expression was frequent among the Jews: they considered that every thing that was done upon earth, according to the order of God, was at the same time done in heaven: hence they were accustomed to say, that when the priest, on the day of atonement, offered the two goats upon earth, the same were offered in heaven. As one goat therefore is permitted to escape on earth, one is permitted to escape in heaven; and when the priests cast the lots on earth, the priest also casts the lots in heaven. See Sohar. Leviticus fol. 26; and see Lightfoot and Schoettgen. These words will receive considerable light from Lev_13:3, Lev_13:23 : The priest shall look upon him (the leper) and pronounce him unclean. Hebrew וטמא אתו vetime otho, he shall pollute him, i.e. shall declare him polluted, from the evidences mentioned before. And in Lev_13:23 : The priest shall pronounce him clean, וטהרו הכה vetiharo hacohen, the priest shall cleanse him, i.e. declare he is clean, from the evidences mentioned in the verse. In the one case the priest declared the person infected with the leprosy, and unfit for civil society; and, in the other, that the suspected person was clean, and might safely associate with his fellows in civil or religious assemblies. The disciples of our Lord, from having the keys, i.e. the true knowledge of the doctrine of the kingdom of heaven, should be able at all times to distinguish between the clean and the unclean, and pronounce infallible judgment; and this binding and loosing, or pronouncing fit or unfit for fellowship with the members of Christ, being always according to the doctrine of the Gospel of God, should be considered as proceeding immediately from heaven, and consequently as Divinely ratified.
That binding and loosing were terms in frequent use among the Jews, and that they meant bidding and forbidding, granting and refusing, declaring lawful or unlawful, etc., Dr. Lightfoot, after having given numerous instances, thus concludes: -
“To these may be added, if need were, the frequent (shall I say?) or infinite use of the phrases, אסור ומותר bound and loosed, which we meet with thousands of times over. But from these allegations the reader sees, abundantly enough, both the frequency and the common use of this phrase, and the sense of it also; namely, first, that it is used in doctrine, and in judgments, concerning things allowed or not allowed in the law. Secondly, that to bind is the same with, to forbid, or to declare forbidden. To think that Christ, when he used the common phrase, was not understood by his hearers in the common and vulgar sense, shall I call it a matter of laughter, or of madness?

The above paste comes from Clark’s commentary from e-sword software. Dr.Lightfoot uses Talmudic and other Jewish sources opening up for us who are not familiar with the cultural understandings of the hears and participants of First Century Jewish people. Craig Keener, “The Bible Background Commentary IVP,1993, says much the same on page 94 of his book. Knowing the cultural understanding of the time allows us to accurately perceive what the text is faithfully communicating to us through the Holy Spirit. The unchanging conceptual information then provides us today, with the principles which we then can apply to the cultural norms we currently live in. This Trans -cultural, closed understanding, becomes a part of the tool mix of the exegetical instructor in every culture and era. Without this foundation given us by Yahweh the text becomes subject to arbitrary thinking and subjective understandings of the current age of the reader/teacher. If we are to understand the mind of Christ we must listen to what He is communicating to us and not read into His instruction what we feel is there.

Part of this problem in my estimation derives from the falling standards of scholarship in the culture of modernity, and its effect upon the Church residing within that prevailing culture. The established understandable body of thought enclosed within the closed setting of the record of Scripture was established through the sovereign direction of Yahweh. He did this so we would understand Him. Our response; teach the unchanging principles to the culture we live in. Where the prevailing world - views and the resultant lifestyles and teaching contradict, influence change!! Not accommodate!!

The result of not applying Jesus’ instruction properly; the Body of Christ has weakened as we allow the warned about problems to be among us unchecked. This in turn keeps the maturity of the believer from being achieved because written about maladies are not fully dealt with, Rom.6:16-18, Eph.4:17-24, Matt.7:2, 1st Thessalonians 5:14-22, 1st Corinthians 6:1-5.
Pastor Art

Subtle Deception

2005-11-09T10:13:00.000-08:00

Prayer With Knowledge

Matt.6:9-10, 17-18When Believers gather we pray and someone quotes, ‘let us agree together’, or, we bind or loose…’ and, ‘wherever two or three agree it shell be done’ from Matt.18:18-20.

The context of these phrases comes from Jesus answering His disciples’ question about the Kingdom, 18:1. Peter, James, John, and Jesus descending from the transfiguration find the other disciples unable to deal with a demoniac. Jesus releases the boy. Traveling to Capernaum they are asked to pay taxes. Jesus asks Peter if those who collect taxes collect from sons or strangers. Peter answers the question, strangers. Jesus tells Peter to pay. After these incidents: reveling of the unveiled glory, inability of the disciples to command the demonic, and reality of their status as strangers in the world’s system, Jesus answers their question about ‘Kingdom’ status. He explains entrance is conversion from an independent state to a dependent state becoming childlike, humble, vulnerable, and dependent on someone greater and under His protection (as children).

Jesus is making it clear; the very nature of this world’s lifestyle is a stumbling block. Teaching about temptation He emphasizes the measures needed in resisting this world’s drawing of our attention away from the Kingdom lifestyle. Temptations away from The Kingdom must be treated as unwanted refuse Phil. 3: 7-8. Comparatively, casting away temporal body parts, which represent activities that separate us from the Kingdom, is so imperative in understanding Kingdom living that following Christ would make us appear lame, crippled, or blind to inhabitants of this world because their perception of life is so at deference to the Kingdom they can not perceive a life without their sin Matt.18: 7-11.

Establishing this Jesus speaks of the Kingdom’s purpose, ‘to save the lost’. He illustrates this with the one lost sheep Matt.2-15. Concerning the 'order of government' for His Kingdom on earth, Jesus turns to Numb.35:29-34, Deut. 17:2ff, Deut.19:15 ff. Going first privately establishes ‘two or more in agreement’, when offender and confronter are agreed this leads to repentance/ restoration. The next steps are spelled out as needed. Instead of stoning as in the Theocratic state of Israel, since we are ‘strangers’ as Jesus just informed His hearers, we proceed to determine the truth of the situation on testimony ‘of two or three witnesses’ acting according to their evidence. Based upon the response to the founded charges by the accused, the binding or loosing of these charges become acknowledged in Heaven as established on the Earth, when based on the directives of Scripture. This mode of operation contrasts Matt.6:10, therefore these two patterns can not be instruction for the same activity. Verse 19, Jesus emphasizes that as we righteously establish a thing as a matter of Kingdom order and truth He acts along side us.Peter asks how often do we do this? Jesus’ response, each time there is confrontation and repentance.1st John 1:9,

‘If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness’.

The verb is imperfect, meaning a continuous open action, repeating Jesus’ answer; a continuous open forgiveness offered to any who confess ‘agree’ with Yahweh, His word, and those gathered on Earth who represent His word. Even though we want to turn this instruction into our decisions influencing Heaven to act on our behalf because a magic number of people have come to agreement, this is not true! The procedure described pertains to righteousness within the Church not as influence over the world.

This teaching has to do with discipline not intercession. Commentators such as Lightfoot, John Gill, Adam Clark, and others have taught this viewpoint. Beyond the exegetical evidence these scalars explain this echoes Rabbinical ordination and Talmudic instruction concerning discipline among believers - Israel. Adding to this other places from Scripture, where the use of either the exact wording or the implementation of the principle, we are amiss to continue to use these concepts as proof texts trying to establish some type of majority rules prayer system, Isaiah 9:6-7 & 22:22,John 20:21-23, 1st Corth.5:4-5 “binding” 2nd Corth.2:5-11 “loosing”- following the rabbinical pattern (this is strong evidence),Rev.1:18 & 3:7.

The idea of men agreeing together having power enough to move the King of kings to act as a result of the weight of that agreement directly contradicts Jesus’ own teaching on prayer not to mention His Sovereignty! When asked about prayer and how to properly pray, His response included the pattern of action that is pleasing to Our Father, ‘On Earth as it is in Heaven.’ Therefore prayer that is answered affirmatively must agree first, foremost, and exclusively from hearts submitted to and schooled in the desires of the Father’s heart and Sovereign authority. Yahweh spoke through Isaiah,

‘For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares Yahweh. For as the Heavens are higher then the earth, so are My ways higher then your ways, My thoughts then your thoughts.

’Isaiah 55:8-9

He was speaking to people who had given their thoughts and ways such elevation of importance they assumed they could move Heaven by the force of numbers. What the Scriptures are communicating to us is that the Kingdom citizens on earth are strangers/ambassadors, 2nd Corinthians 5:20 not rulers at this time in history. Ambassadors influence the countries they reside in they do not rule them. Once an ambassador receives their ruler’s instructions (agreement) his job is to influence the government in understanding their ruler’s desire. Our foundation of agreement is finding out His views, ‘the truth’ defined as, ‘thy word’ John 17:17. Once we understand we can then, we can rightly, apply this understanding. Instruction concerning prayer originates out of a different impetus then consensus among men.

“If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you,ask whatever you wish, and it shall be done for you. By this is My Father glorified…"
John 15:7-8a.

"And this is the confidence which we have before Him,That,If we ask anything according to His will,He hears us.And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask’We know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him. "
1st John 5:14-15

The subtlety of the difference escapes many and has allowed Lucifer in his scheming to twist these two concepts together. The outcome has created rifts within the Body of Christ and at their fullest, placed a dark deception upon men dragging them away from Yahweh’s Kingdom. We will look into these in the future but at this time let me say; the concluding of the outcome of this scheme, weakens the authority of Christ’s Body through diverting the discipline into prayer. This deception has also turned prayer into a democratic activity where the people rule through mass agreement. Both of these subtle deceptions have birthed and bore fruit appealing to immaturity causing spiritual retardation with teachers tickling ears, 2nd Timothy 4:3-4. More later.
Pastor Art

The Deccived - "Shavah"

2005-11-04T09:09:00.000-08:00

I have been working on a paper concerning solemn assemblies. Because of the dynamics of the Sabbath issues involved and the application of the feast cycle of Yahweh the “entering into rest” has become a part of this study.

One of the concepts of “rest” is “shlah or shavah”. This root is used in Jeremiah 22: 21-22 and Dan.8:24-25. This root is translated at times “careless” as in no thought to the environment of ones life, peace, with the idea of prosperity and security of military, social, and wealth’s delusion. It is significant that this concept is communicated in Daniel related to the final ruler of this age whom we identify as the Anti - Christ. His power will be through this “complacency” that overwhelms cultures at their strongest. The whole world will be prosperous without worry this will allow the dominance and deception of even the Church at that time. Is this the time?!? It is at lest a time in the Western Culture of that magnitude!

Over the last 1000 years give or take a couple hundred or so one way or the other, the civilization, cultural standards, and world - view of the Greco - Roman culture embodied in the Euro - American version (ten toes?) has become the world’s standard for security and prosperity. This culture’s root is pan - theistic and naturalistic. The claw and tooth of survival of the fittest has become the discontent with the OLD WAYS and popularity. These two have become the blinding of the Church within the culture of the West and like a deadly cancer has grown unchecked in the secret darkness until it has overwhelmed and attached itself to the vitality of the body and can no longer stay undetected.

Peoples who live outside “our” cultural standard still hold to a Biblical world - view. By this I mean they understand that all of existence is sacred and connected to the transcendent world beyond this existence. They in turn recognize transcendent beings rule. [This is why the truth of Scripture transforms them, and bores or angers us.] We as a result of many dynamics that time and space confine me to delve into here, have segregated our lives. Therefore, the “subculture” of evangelicals and other Scripturally correct people have relegated “spiritual” over here and “secular” over there. We have become scytzophrantic, (spelling) bipolar, or as James puts it double minded. What type of prayer will Yahweh answer yes to from us?

The opening of Solomon’s prayer 2nd Chron.6:12-42, (By the way this happened at a solemn assembly.) answered with “If my people…” starts with him restating the Covenant, recognizing that when the Nation,any Nation, is distressed with natural and human disasters, returning to a Scriptural cultural standard will turn or stay Yahweh’s hand. Naturalistic prosperity gained by “pulling up our bootstraps” has gotten us here, we had better take off those boots and recognize we stand on Holy Ground! If we do not the fire in the bush will consume us!

What time is it??!! The time of the great falling away!!?? The time of “delusion of prosperity” shavah, either way if Salvation History tells us anything, we in the West are about to be taken into some type of captivity, we had better seek the examples of our 3rd world brothers if we are going to overcome.
Pastor Art (This, with some changes here, is a response to Ken Silva’s post on Slice of Laodicea.)

Acting as His Son - Prayer

2005-11-03T12:07:00.000-08:00

Each system of belief communicates beyond here and now to who or whatever transcendent concept they perceive exists. As Christians prayer is the term we identify with this activity. Our understanding is that Yahweh is a “personal” being who interacts with us made in His image as “personal” beings as well. We are not rocks {inanimate} speaking to another rock. We are not having a internal conversation either, because our Creator did not form us from the substance of Himself because when He became, “the image of the invisible God“ He had to enter into this world not emanate into consciousness from the pool of non - existence, John 16:28, 11:27, 18:37, Heb.10:5.

Once we chose to submit to the Father after being drawn of the Holy Spirit through the means of the Son’s blood atonement our intimate interaction can begin. Pryor to our choosing to except the adoption offer of Yahweh we echo Job after the depths of his breaking;

I know that thou canst do all things,
And that no purpose of Thine can be thwarted.
Who is this that hides counsel with out knowledge?
Therefore I have declared that which I did not understand,
Things to wonderful for me, which I did not know.
Hear, now, I will speak;
I will ask Thee, and do Thou instruct me.
I have heard of Thee by the hearing of the ear;
But now my eye sees Thee,
Therefore I react,
And I repent in dust and ashes.
Job 42:2-6

This being exposed increasingly through the struggle produces the process that leads to maturity. This illustrates Jesus’ teaching concerning the Holy Spirit’s ministry towards man John 16:8-15. His Spirit sent by the Father will act as convector - not to confused with accuser; hope verses despair is a simple way to tell the difference. He first exposes Sin offering the one trapped within its nature freedom from it through their choosing to repent and surrender to the Father’s rule - justification - breaking the curse of “Original Sin” and its power over the one born into the nature of the first Adam, Rom. 10:8-17. [As the dwelling place - temple of the Holy Spirit - the Body of Christ, we are the mouth producing the sound to hear as the Holy Spirit’s instrument the work of the Holy Spirit is not the result of some ethereal encounter that far to many instruct the Holy Spirit‘s interaction with man to be!]

The second and ongoing relationship between the believer and the Father is conviction of unrighteousness still influencing [not ruling Rom.6] the repentant one - this is Sanctification the second aspect of Salvation and the relational interaction revealing the habits of our past still unbroken needing to come under discipline’s maturing instruction, Heb.12:7-14. The restoration of His Spirit as in the Garden endows us again with the strength and understanding [Rom.8:16,26 2nd Corth.1:22, Gal.4:6] to respond increasingly as we grow and throw off the encumbering sin- habits of the old man so we can say as Job, “I heard of Thee… but now my eye sees Thee”. This is the goal expounded upon in Eph.4:14.

The interaction here falls into the transcendent relationship man has with Yahweh and reveals one dimension of what we call prayer. This interaction develops between us knowledge leading to understanding. Understanding in turn allows trust to develop. This trust becomes the foundation by which Jesus says we are no longer slaves but sons because a slave has no concept of his master’s plan. However a son who is mature acts according to what he sees and hears from his father fathoms the depths of his father’s character. The father in turn out of concern and compassion informs the son. Moreover since the son has the foundational understandings of the father the unfolding plan becomes a cooperative endeavor based upon agreed results of the two together [not between sons but between father and son/s].

This concept -maturity- is the starting point of intersession. when we are mature sons we are not in the dark concerning Yahweh’s Kingdom principles and it nature. He has given us the complete picture needed while we live in time - Scripture. Intersession reflects the mature responsibility entrusted to a mature son who is not in doubt over his next move as whould be a immature son. While a child is being brought to maturity a father stands beside a child guiding and protecting the child’s actions because his immaturity only allows him to act upon direct instruction. The evidence of maturity sought after from a father is seen when his son acknowledges the contrast between the father’s desired order and the condition existing outside of that and without seeking instruction proceeds to bring his father’s order to bear. Along with the understanding and responsible action the father then gives his son authority to act in his name and wield his power to accomplish the task.

Intersession is not relational interaction but trust interaction based upon mature interdependence. Mature sons stand in the gap between the Father and the situations within the Earth. Intercessors understand what they see around them and in the same fashion as the mature son in the natural begin to use the authority and power granted them to develop strategies to bring order to the estate.

Unfortunately either out of fear, some type of false humility, or immaturity the Western Church spends to much of her time calling intimate relational interaction intercession. Just so no one misunderstands me we must continue to build deeper relational times with Yahweh. However we have got to stop confusing this with intercession. If most of the time spent “praying” intercessionally takes on the need of searching for the anti - Kingdom conditions we are not mature enough to be a trusted son given the authority to stand in the gap between the voiceless and the oppressor as an ambassador wielding the Kings authority.

As we survey the Father’s lands do we see what He does not approve. If not then we are not mature. If we do then the next step is to through His authority begin to address that which we see. (part of book I am working on)

Pastor Art

Who is My Neighbor - "I AM"

2005-09-30T05:53:00.000-07:00

All Our Heart, Mind, Soul, and Strength

The great things of God become know by the great contemplation of the Godly.

In the same way, the depths of God are fathomed when we drink deeply of the Living Water

Further more, His heart shows us we are over our head in the ocean and we must rest in Him to stay afloat.

When the storms come we must like a tiny boat head for deeper water

So that we will not be engulfed by the crashing waves near the shallowness of the shore.

Asked about the great commandment, Jesus’ response; agape/ ‘ahab Yahweh, agape/ ‘ahab Neighbor [Matt.22:36-40/Deut.6:5]

Upon these two rest all the Torah’s direction, upon these two rest all the Prophets’ correction.

Shekinah the “dwelling” Glory of Yahweh is Him abiding “neighboring” among us, next door abiding.

In Yahweh’s image man is made, to the least of these what you do to His neighboring image; to Me you do!

Arthur Brokop II

For Those Who Have Ears

2005-09-28T10:46:00.000-07:00

The voice of the Prophets

This people waits for a shout from the sky a sound that rumbles the Earth
Voicing unquestioned authority convincing arguments ticking itching ears
Echoing their own understanding, teaching according to their desirous hearts
Their backs are turned towards Yahweh, faces and ears towards myths of men

Harlotry consumes, her spirit prevents their return, taking away understanding
Yahweh is unknown Torah rejected, the land mourns, the people of it languish
His hand shakes the Earth, flood waters cover the land, cities left a dissolute waist
Lioness’ growl like the sea, whirlwind of horse’s hoofs, darkness distress awaits

Therefore gird your minds for action, be sober in spirit at all times
Purify your souls endure through faith and grace’s outcome to the end
Tested by fire and various distressing trials obedient to the truth
At the Revelation of Jesus your outcome will be salvation of your soul

While we have opportunity, as long as it is day, before no man can work
Offer the perishing, water living water, offer Heaven’s Bread come down
Like the eagle mount up in weariness, persevering diligently devoted to prayer
Abhor evil and by it not be overcome, overcome what you abhor by showing your faith

Scriptures to ponder
Hosea 4&5, Isaiah 5 &8, Amos - nearly all, John 6&9 Romans 12:9f, Gal.6:9-10,
2nd Thess. 3:13, 1st Peter 1:3f, 2nd Timothy 4:3f, James 2:14f
Arthur Brokop II 9-23-2005

"The God of Glory Thunders"

2005-09-01T08:45:00.000-07:00

AWAKE!!

I am writing this from a reaction of weeping for those who in the tragic engulfing of one of the Gateway cities suffer, whither that suffering is in this body or in eternity. So do not start with the he has no right to say those things god is not like that - where is the love!!!!! Jeremiah said his nation was done for through tears, so much so Yahweh told him to no longer greave/weep for these people, after this rendering of justice - restoration.

Beyond that this needs to be said. A couple of years ago Yahweh showed me the cities that are Gateways into this nation. New York Northeast, Miami Southeast, New Orleans South, Chicago North, Seattle Northwest, LA area Southwest. These Cities represent places of reputation in various levels of society.

I have prayed for them because as they function as Gateways they are places of authority, influence, and identity of this country.

Not long ago an event in NY struck at America’s sense of security now known as 911- a concept associated with emergency. This event was just that, a Shofar blown to awaken the comatose. However like the alarm at our bedside we slapped the snooze alarm and the retaliatory action has acted as a wedge being driven into a log to make firewood (picture intended). This alarm has gone off again and even though the impact upon Fla. will not be spoken ofin light of the second strike, this shaking hit both the Southeast and the South Gates simultaneously! For most reading this I do not have to spell out the reputation of these cities, if the picture is not forefront do some research! And when you are done begin to weep and morn for this country because there are more gates to be broken. Moreover I fear blind eyes and deaf ears will pravail.

The reaction that this nation has taken thus far is to embrace any and all gods as a show of good faith in hopes that “peace” can be achieved. The land burns, drought empties the kneading bowl, wombs are decimated through ripping the children out of them - otherwise known as abortion, diseases molds viruses bacteria out of control, and ….!!! READ Deut.28:15f.

Mother Nature is not mad, this is not a result of global warming, El Nino is not needing a diaper change, fanatics are not blowing things up because they are insane ECT ECT ECT! The tragic and fearful turmoil surrounding and engulfing us comes from Yahweh’s just and merciful hand. Sodom and Gomorra’s daily activities were heard before the throne as an “outcry” Deut.18:20, indeed great and grave was its sound! The western world patterned from America’s success has become an “outcry” great and grave!! To rid a garden of weeds or a plant that bears poison fruit effectively its root MUST be destroyed therefore rendering the rest of the plant dead and fruitless. We are the root of much evil.

Those of you who know Christ who hear and understand the Shepard’s voice, know this is true. The Shofar sounds to alert sometimes for worship, sometimes for instruction, sometimes for war, other times for packing and gathering and moving from danger. Hear the Ram’s Horn on the hill!?!? Yahweh speaks from His Mountain prophets’ voices ring, will you slap at it and role over??
Pastor Art

Shalom

2005-08-24T07:47:00.000-07:00

I was reminded again of the teaching of the “Fathers” concerning this issue. By “Fathers” I do not mean theses theologians of the first few centuries of the western Church. But those spoken about in the end of Malachi the ones that the sons will be “restored” to in turn the sons need to be restored unto their Fathers. The ears of the people hearing this understood this to be Abe, Jake, and Isaac, the Fathers of who they were. Paul later tells us that if we are in Christ we are Abe’s sons - Gal.3:29.
What is the point? Their sons had an answer for this question. There are three aspects of action around us.
First “kindness”. the “care bear” god if you will. If kindness is the main and only aspect of social interaction and decisions then chaos would rule. Everything would be excused.
Second countering “kindness” is “justice”. this stark blinder type of decision making dulls out decrees leaving cold outcomes “Wrathful” if you will.
The third aspect “Truth” tempers the contrasts of the first two. Truth opens actions up to scrutiny revealing motive etc.
Kindness invokes mercy. Justice invokes righteousness. Truth invokes holiness. These aspects of Yahweh’s nature have been neglected or rejected these days. This lack of understanding of Yahweh’s nature truncates reality resulting in questions about His will and how He achieves it. Understanding these brings Shalom that the world cannot understand.
Pastor Art

Yahweh's Heart

2005-08-06T05:20:00.000-07:00

More from my study on Solemn Assembly

First, and I think foremost an understanding of our Creator needs to be placed before us. He is not an unreachable, unknowable, or heartless figure somewhere beyond. His giving us the Bible is proof of that. From it we can know and understand what He has revealed of Himself. Moreover, this revealing draws us unto Him. Yahweh, our Creator exposes His heart from the “Beginning”. Man, “formed”- yatsar; by squeezing etc action of a potter, intimately by His own hands and given life from the Creator’s own breath bears the very image of his Creator unlike any other aspect of creation. In addition, He desires intimate, personal, and interactive contact with us. His heart being inclined towards that Yahweh “planted” a garden to dwell in and meet in together at the close of each day. This interactive, interpersonal, interdependence, spoken about at the opening of time is illustrated in the forming of man. All of creation Yahweh declared, “very good”, Gen.1:31 at creation’s completion except for one aspect, Gen.2:18 “man” this one made by His hands, like a potter forming a vessel, His chosen vessel that would hold His image. However, this vessel even though meticulously formed by His own hands still lacks the fullness of the Creator’s image. Instead of leaving this incompleteness Yahweh instructs First Man through the task of zoological nomenclature; has him name the animals. Through the intimate instruction of the “Father”, First Man comes to the conclusion that he needs a helpmate the perfect counterpart to himself - a woman, First woman!
Therefore, Yahweh puts First man - Adam into a deep sleep. Out of First Man’s body He builds/fashions, Banah; to build or establish a structure or family [from existing material], completing His image within Creation. In addition Yahweh establishes the foundations for understanding relationships.
Let us explore briefly the foundations here. Creation has a Creator. His creation has knowledge of Him so much so the highest aspect of creation He formed in His own image. This image is Triune in nature as revealed by His image being male, female, and Spirit. The two physical aspects exist as the same material and live as a result of their Creator’s breath giving them life. Our Creator has a purpose - plan for His Creation, he does not just make it and walk away. This reflects the Garden being planted. Man receives knowledge of Yahweh’s intended purpose through the blueprint for the Earth in the planted garden. In addition they meet each day face to face in this garden. This brings us to the reason for the Festival/Feast instructions within Torah. Yahweh understood that fallen Man became blinded and fearful in His presence therefore He devised a system/cycle of meetings. These he established so we could be reminded that Man made in His image is the object of His love. The different aspects or dynamics enacted at these meetings help us to be reminded of our relationship before the Fall and Yahweh’s intended desire to restore that relationship at all costs. The Sacrificial system within reveals this. The thanksgiving/offering system reveals our dependency and instructs us on how to respond lovingly. That is why most of the Feasts and Festivals when instituted are said to be observed unto all generations. In fact Zechariah, speaking of when Yahweh sits enthroned in the Earth - sometime after Jesus returns, indicates that the “Feast of Tabernacles” will be observed. He then warns that whoever fails to participate will suffer drought that year, Zech.14:16f. It would seem then that even beyond the Second Coming at lest one Feast will be celebrated.

Solemn Assembly

2005-08-01T11:07:00.000-07:00

this is what I've been working on for the past 40 days
i recently presented an outline to Brother Andrew Begay, of Calvary Love Ministries,
Sunday, June 18, 2006 is the date set for the Solemn Assembly and call to prayer for the Navajo Nation. I am honored to be part of the planning of this prayer event.
Solemn Assembly
A call to Dinetah to come before The Creator
Scripture illustrates and directs the People of Yahweh to come before Him regularly. The Feasts/Festivals are a part of that directive. The call and gathering of Yahweh’s people did not end at Jesus’ death and resurrection. A careful study of Scripture reveals this from Matt.5:17;
“Do not think that I [Jesus] came to abolish the Law [Torah] or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish, but to fulfill.”
This statement too often takes on a pre- determined concept that “abolish” and “fulfill” are synonymous, therefore in Christ’s “fulfilling” He “abolished” i.e. did away with everything prior to His time dwelling with us. This precept derives from heretical teachings of “Marcion” who said that the “Old Testament” no longer had an effect on those under the “New Testament” dispensation. Tertullian, a third century Church Father, exposed this and refuted the idea that Scripture has a division or “dispensational” nature. Even though the heresy was exposed the splitting of Yahweh’s revelation has persisted, we have two testaments instead of one unbroken revelation of our Creator who is Savior, Colo.1:24f. The prophetic mystery revealed through Christ concerning His Body the Church is not new but revealed, made manifest just as the invisible image of Yahweh is seen in Christ Jesus. Therefore if we divide Scripture we are eliminating the richness and depth of our intimacy and worship. This dispensational view contradicts His [Jesus’] statements following Matt.5:17 and the many directives stating that such and such actions are to continue throughout your generations, [Ex.12:14-17 Luke 22:19], [Isa.45:17 Rom.9:33, 10:11, 1st Peter 2:6]. I present these Scriptures together to demonstrate that there are number of concepts that did not end at Christ‘s appearing, concepts that have this same weight. One of these is “The Solemn Assembly” of which we will here explore.
more to come

Who is Our Creator

2005-07-11T21:46:00.000-07:00

Who is our Creator? Is He your Savior?
In Genesis, Yahweh; The Creator, Sovereign One, Holy Father introduces Himself to us. Even though the complete exhaustive reveling cannot be shown to any one of us, He makes known His mind through the mind of Christ, 1Corth.2:16. His mind becomes open to us through the Holy Spirit who defers His revelation to Yeshua, John 14:23-26 16:7-15,17:13-15 1 Corth.2:6-16 who in turn give the Father the glory. Yeshua earlier spoke in John concerning His “words” and His “actions” being those of the Father alone, John 5:19f and 8:19f. He, interacting with the leaders and teachers speaks concerning their ignorance or prejudice in these two passages letting them and us know that not believing the writings of Moses equates to not believing the Son’s words.

There are a plethora of concepts out of Scripture effected by this very strong rebuke. This writing will be confined to the divisive issue of Yahweh’s rule, His Sovereignty most often argued popularly through the question of “predestination” and “God’s Sovereign plan” of which it is taught no man can resist. I have written in the past concerning the distain that I have with the fear motivating people trying to protect the Sovereign One by refusing those He Created in His Image, this aspect of His image. This aspect, “Free Will”; a true free will, a choice independent of control, and slave like restrictions depicts the most powerful aspect of Yahweh’s sovereignty - loving trust. The Sovereign One, Yahweh does not need fatalistic controls upon His creation to be King or insure the desire of His heart plan.

If we, formed in Yahweh’s image, Gen.1:26-27, are unable to act unrestricted even against Our Creator’s will, then He the One we are in the image of, by virtue of His image’s restricted abilities must not be in actuality Sovereign. Because He like His image it would seem would have to answer to a person or force beyond His power by the restrictions He places upon His image. This reflects a world view ruled by a Pantheon of gods like the Greeks, Babylonian Zoëasterism, or modern LDS.

His archaic commands to man; rule unrestricted within the dominion He created for us- the Earth. The Gen. account allowed for man’s unrestricted choice. This aspect He acknowledged and through His loving trust, intimately, instructed the man on the results that his not trusting would bring about. The action showing this faithlessness, choosing to act against the will of his Creator. We know the result we won’t go there for now.

What did we rule - have sovereignty over - before our choice to resist the Sovereign One’s instructions; a living multi - faceted environment of which we had no ability to “force” through “irresistible” or “overwhelming” mandates to subdue and rule over. The implied directive I think, was to work with the rest of the Earth cooperating with and understanding its nature thereby forming it into the pattern shown by Yahweh in the “planting” (Gen.2:8) of Eden. To be sure, detractors can argue that some aspects of our place of sovereignty have no ability to resist our actions (inanimate), no recourse in response to any action we take (“lower life forms). Others respond ; well, we are not God! Therefore, we lack His omnipotence and are not able to achieve the decreed task. This statement reflects man as we are today however in our perfect state of pre-fall Grace we were able to accomplish the task given (even though we were not omnipotent even in our prfection). This ability included “to obey or not to obey” that was the question. Adam choose “not to obey”.

The response, ‘we are not God’, would be a good response, and accepted by many unfortunately without meditating on Scripture. Although restricted to the dominion of the Earth we are to rule all the same, and will rule with Him throughout Eternity. Has anyone reading this actually thought this out? We rule with Him YES! But I doubt seriously that means the whole of creation. It is more likely our rule will reflect His original intent; the Earth, newly created for us the new creatures in Christ ,2 Corth.5:17, Rev.21. We see the unresisting aspects of creation are hardly imaged in our likeness or Yahweh‘s for that matter! Therefore, unlike us our Creator’s abilities to reason are not innate in other aspects of creation. In reality Paul tells us that these are worshiped as an exchange of Yahweh’s glory. Therefore, the non - human creation can only bear the image that they actually are and not their Creator as we. Only one aspect of creation holds Yahweh’s image; MAN. There are two basic ways to rule or have a controlling influence upon men.

Slavery, is one requiring no trust of the master by the slave. In turn the master himself cannot be trusted. A slave does not fulfill his tasks out of love and trust. A slave has no reason to surrender his life to the master and trust his well-being to his master. Therefore, the unrevealed plan of such a master is blindly excepted and done from fearful self preservation. This hardly depicts a loving, righteous, God.

The other way to rule derives out of cooperation through instruction and intimacy. Slavery needs no informed cooperation only overwhelming unquestionable power! Instruction leading to trust is achieved through intimacy and understood cooperation. This is not a one directional trust, greater to lesser, but an exchange from both parties. The master understanding each workers abilities etc trusts his worker to complete the task because the worker knows his master and the desired result. The intimacy derived through instruction and respect shown the worker, through the master’s accepting his worker’s input, based upon the worker’s gifting and experience etc. develops a common desired goal. The relationship between our Creator and us shows us He knows better then us what He made us to be. This understanding develops a son/friend relationship Gal.3:29,4:7, 2Corth.6:14-7:1.

Is this not what Yeshua is teaching in John 15:12-17. The pivot point here is revealed in verses 14-15, “You are My friends, if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you slaves, for a slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you.”. This pivot Paul takes up through the Holy Spirit giving us fuller instruction and the resultant insight into the Father’s heart in Romans 6.

Paul in his instruction concerning salvation; justification and sanctification (this is another over simplified concept when viewed through a god who predestines outcomes as a slave master both parts needed, another topic) illustrates this exchange echoing Yeshua’s words. Men born into this world are born into the house of sin’s slavery, an existence lived out hopelessly. Men are keep blind to anything beyond that house’s master’s allowed experiences. Paul at the conclusion of this explanation Chapter 10:8-15 offers hope. He says to us, freed from the slave house, that the responsibility for the hearing of the Gospel rests on us the freed ones. In speaking so they can hear, we enact the work of Christ’s body (the living word) 1 Peter 2:9-10, Phil. 2:12-15, Eph.3-14, this is the revealed mystery which the Creator - Yahweh had planed as His predestined instrument of proclamation from the foundations. We the freed ones through the restored commission of Gen.1 are predestined to speak release to the captives as witnesses of Yahweh, Isaiah 43:10-13, 44:6-8, Acts 5:29-32. This message is, “that we should no longer be slaves to sin” Rom.6:6 because the proclamation of Chapter 10 is for “whoever calls on the name of Yahweh will be saved” or as Yeshua put it you are no longer slaves but sons. As sons we are told as He was, the Father’s desires because we have His mind. If we do what He - Yahweh commands - through the restored indwelling Holy Spirit we through intimate trusting instruction, grow into mature sons, Eph.4. We do not choose to be the branches on the vine because a blinded imprisoned slave has no idea how release can be obtained. A slave only knows that it must be. However, all men are seeking something transcendent. Our heart longs for Eternity Ecc.3:11, Jeremiah 29:12f, 2 Chron.15:12-15, Psm.119:2, and men seek after their Creator longing to return to Shalom. Therefore, He appoints us as His chosen witnesses to speak freedom to the captives John 15:16 Isaiah as referred to earlier. What slaves choose is death enacting their release from sin’s household. As Paul teaches [Rom.6] the dead man now is alive to Christ and under a new mandate, that mandate, being a witness - a martyr. This is the predestined plan from the foundations, not the slave like manipulation depicted as sovereignty , by fearful men trying to protect a god that is not the God of the Scriptures! The God who created also saves, from trust, love, and sovereign understanding of His created image, He saves, without fear of allowing man’s turning against Him, unfortunately to their own demise. By their own unhindered choice! Consequences OH yes there are consequences. We are chosen to speak so they can hear, so that whosoever hears, will answer our call to freedom. And those who respond with repentance will be saved!! Not some pre-chosen few!!

Slave or Son witness or pawn intimately instructed or mindlessly directed as if by a Kligon (spelling) pain stick by a cosmic bully who himself has no choice but….
Who do you serve and can the one you serve save??!!

Pastor Art

The King's Table

2005-07-09T08:17:00.000-07:00

Awaiting the King's Table

Kitubah - Goelem
(Betrothal - Kinsmen Redeemer)
Song of Solomon & Isaiah 54:5-8
Bring me to Your table Oh, King, draw me
Partaking of the bread, deeply drinking the wine
Eyes of Eternity beholding what I will be
Betrothed to Your Son, Father, King of all the earth

Fear not, for you will not, be put to shame Isaiah 54:5-8
Reproach of your widowhood, will be remembered no more
Your maker is your husband, He’ll have compassion on you
Yahweh Sabaoth, Shemmo, Go-el-em
(His name is Yahweh Sabaoth, your Kinsmen Redeemer)
The tender touch of Yahweh, turns my heart to Him
Raising before Him, like smoke in Temple bowls
At peace while resting calmly on Your breast
Your touch deepening my knowledge, that I am Your beloved

Scares of Your rejection reveal Your love for me
Your signet is upon me, love as strong as death
Lightning’s of our fire, like the flame of Yahweh
Many waters can not quench it burns eternally
Written April 2004

Evolution?

2005-06-22T12:53:00.000-07:00

Genesis
A Study in Foundations
A couple of weeks back Maryellen “assigned” me a weekly sermon type entry for Gateway of the Rock. This she did because I am not preaching each week and knows that the use it or loose it principle could cause rust to cover the metal of my life - my work.
With that in mind let us walk together through the beginnings, the foundations.
Over the years I have come to understand that grasping the understanding of the opening chapters of The Creator’s heart and mind develops insights and wisdom beyond the conventional. Many of the questions swirling around society and the micro - chasm of Blogdom would dissipate if Christendom would embrace Paul’s admonition to, “…Not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mid,” Romans 12:2a. This means vernacularly being out of step, marching to the beat of a different drummer or heaven forbid, “Men of whom the world was not worthy” Hebrews 11:38.
Over the 2 millennia since Paul’s admonition this bit of Scripture has been quoted as proof text for any number of ideals and causes. However, as I apply this at the opening of this study I keep in mind that I as well could be guilty. Moreover, as a convert to Christianity (as all of us are) out of a world - view quite antagonistic to a Biblical world - view I have never been the “blind faith” type, I am always looking for the wet side of the goat skin.
This task, although turning to evidences from science, is not a polemic of science verses Spirit. I have come to the conclusion that science reveals Yahweh’s person and purpose. Moreover, “science” that contradicts Scripture originates pre - determined pre - judged position and which I identify as “Lucifereion”. The reasoning behind this, any scheme that turns man to a salvation other then Christ comes from a lie and who is the “Father of Lies”? Our only choices are “intelligent design” or “natural generation” of some type. But we are not researching scientific foundations but Biblical foundations. Straying away from the point here is only so no one can think that I do not know of the dynamics of this. Am I a scientist? No! But I trust scientists.
In The Beginning…
The primary opening concept, “In the beginning God created…” sets our parameters defining the context of the following account. This statement informs the receiver of this, either hearer - as an oral account/storytelling or reader, of the setting of this information. The setting defines reality.

for more go to Gateway of the Rock...

Propaganda?!?!

2005-05-26T09:49:00.000-07:00

Bad Science or Bad Reporting

While following links around I stumbled upon this story filed by the Associated Press on Live Science . See at : http://livescience.com/othernews/ap_050523_creation_museum.html.

I at first wanted to respond directly to the writer but was not able to establish how to do this because there was not a local paper this article was just released generally on the above mentioned sight. Therefore my response will be here! In doing so I hope that I am not braking any copyright laws or anything of that nature.

I sit here hands raised shaking my head waving my hands screaming - aaahhh!!!! I do not believe this!!!

After this my first reaction I reread the article. The pointed direction of the text had nothing to do with the title, nothing to do with the science behind Ken Ham’s claim of the age of the earth. The article, a diatribe of propaganda feeding the ignorance of the public concerning the issue of origins sought to belittle the man destroying or disregard his scholarship. The author digressing away from the topic the title promised to inquire into began to use controversy instead of introduction to the museum, its intent, and why the contrast between the two world - views.

I am not a scientist however, I am educated and understand the discipline of research. Moreover those of you reading this most likely have read other posts and responses made by me and know that I am not from a narrow, unexamined, blindered, (made up), fundamentalist, reactionary, school of Christian thought. Growing up in the general education system left me scientifically a naturalist after all what other line of teaching is there (Is that propaganda or what?). With out any belief system spiritually, I searched out the prevailing religious trends offered me; what I call Lucifer’s denominations. None of these systems of spiritual enlightenment hardly contradicted the evolutionary origins model. After coming to Christ and entering collage preparing for my vocation contradictions between Scripture’s plain telling and Theology’s accommodation with “modern” scientific theories began to glare and shout something’s wrong here. The purported idea indicated that along with the evolution of the species came the evolution of our understanding of the “supernatural”. Mankind evolved spiritually out of pan - theistic and poly - theistic cultures into mono - theistic thinking embodied first in Abraham through his decadences.

This concept, purposed theory, lost logic stood up against Scripture. It also broke the Law of none Contradiction, a controlling parameter in philosophy and debate. The Bible and its information as I saw it either speaks for itself as correct or it is just another group of stories incoherent to reality like the other “holy books” I had read. This is when I received a book in the mail, Morris, Henry M., The Long War Against God (Baker Book House, 1989), from who to this day I have no idea. Reading this book exposed me to the Intelligent Design theory - commonly called Creationism. Creationism most often when used comes across as a demeaning term, and I do not care for it. Reading this book explained a lot of/about the conflict. After reading this book I began to search for collaborating research and found Ken Ham’s books and later went to a teaching seminar with him and, Gish, Duane T., Evolution: The Fossils Still Say No!, in Denver. (I added the book references in case any one might be interested in researching this topic and hearing scholars conclusions.)
Over the years through reading and instruction recordings from these scientists, respected in their fields; ICR - http://www.trueorigin.org/imp-269a.asp Ken Ham -http://www.answersingenesis.org/ and others that I can not find links to at this time, I am convinced that “Intellect Design” most convincingly explains the evidences revealed by scientific research. One of , and the most coherent conclusions leads to Theistic origins of the designer - creator this appears the most probable conclusion. Through Faith, not blindly arrived at, the Revelation of the Judaic - Christian Scriptures best explains the truth of how we got here.
Pastor Art

Responses to "pomousings" as a post

2005-05-23T10:31:00.000-07:00

The missing Link;
The Office of The Prophet
The Apostle

“Initial thesis: We live in a culture today, that the missional context of our world has changed. To engage missionally in our culture requires a form and posture of leadership which our systems are not ready to engage or release. → , and these are what seminaries, institutions are woefully unprepared to release and/or even name these.
We have got to create new structures that name and release these things”
Posted on ‘pomomusings’ 5-20-2005
See links

I copied this section from your post to insure that first that it is before me as I respond and also insure that this response is understood in the light of this section not the rest of the post.

I agree from the depths of my being that to engage our culture, “requires a form and posture of leadership which our systems are not ready to engage…” as you said.

Since the Reformation Protestant Christianity has ignored at best Scriptural roots to leadership. This “ignor - ance” over the years has lead us to the Church’s condition today. Working through this I will not point to the traditional men involved because on the most part the original intention of these men, even in their generation, distorted systems and ideas grew contrary the goals they had in mind. I choose to examine current conditions.

“Intuition, artistic, prophetic, poetic these are what are needed”, may I use an ancient response here indulge me please Amen!

I worked for a while with/ for a man who restored 18th Century houses. An important aspect of this work entailed authenticity to the original. We made use of any material already a part of the construction. Many times that meant painstakingly uncovering layers of paints and stains and there were surprises, like opening a wall and finding another room sealed for decades untouched. After that type of discovery the dynamic of the house took on new life.

What does this have to do with the “Initial thesis”? In reality everything! Layers of incrusted reactionary structures of leadership and the directions that we have gone as a result have brought us here. Concerning the issue at hand Protestant Christianity today stands encrusted in need of restoration. But this restoration like those old houses need careful tender actions so as not to destroy the original structure. Not doing so would make something else out of the 18th Century house and it then would lose its authenticity and it then became just another old house. Restoring the Church must be done with the same care. Moreover, when reconstruction/restoration - reformation was done the “new” authentically of the house became a valuable work of beauty. So it will be with Christ’s Church.

The Western Church needs careful restoration and we who lead in Her must become skilled craftsmen knowledgeable in Her structures not workers just looking to pretty things up.

When Jesus began His ministry to the Church - “the called out ones” ecclesia of the 1st Century He openly and clearly said that He came not to “deconstruct” the existing structure Matt.5:17-20. Moreover at the end of His Earthly ministry He spoke to two travels on their way to Emmaus and, “[Then] He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures,” Luke 24:45.

This is where we are today, at a cross roads, Jeremiah 6:16, in need of the foundations Psm.11:3, and seeking knowledge, the knowledge of Yahweh’s Kingdom to bring justice, Shalom, and righteousness to this time badly in need of such, Isaiah 28:9-29. Choices made now will effect the Church as much as those of the Reformation effect us today. The quest can not be to undo the effects but the reactionary results of past efforts. Many in the zeal to distance themselves from anything Romanist destroyed the very elements being sought after by this generation of believers. The Apostolic and the Prophetic offices within leadership prescribed in the building of the 1st Century established from before the foundation of the world, 1st Peter1:20-2:10,need to be reestablished and not replaced. The value and the beauty of “spiritual house” depend on it. We must remember our Master’s declaration in Matt. (This is getting long but please keep reading there is a point.) He did not come to destroy/deconstructe and we better not either. The two offices (see Eph.4:11f) missing need to be restored. Once restored they will provide the needed creativity and complete council of the Mind of Christ needed to accomplish the task given to us Matt.28:18-20.

The Apostolic office embodies and provides the creativity and vision to examine the needed cultural insight. Yahweh provides examples; Paul in Athens and James leading the Jerusalem Council to direct in outreach beyond their current understanding without destroying the original structure.

The Prophetic office, the historical Biblical Prophets spoke to the people using the tools given them which we label as “artistic” today. They acted out like a movie what Yahweh wanted them to know - Hosea is one example, granted that he lived this but today this could be put into a script and “made to appear real” on the screen or stage. Many writings of the Prophets are poetry most likely sung and lend themselves to musical composition even today.

Why is this field of activity now outside of the influence of the Church and in need of reclaiming? Because reacting to anything Rome any artistic endevers were seen as production of Idols. Reactions to icons, statues, and other representations of any type, forced the “artisens” into the arms of Lucifer who is only too happy to enslave the Prophets because our lose of powerful communacation destroys/weakens the power we have been given to correct the misguided and convict the sinner. Read how the Prophets called Yahweh’s people, they employed every form of “entertainment art”. The Leviticl Priesthood was made up of metal smiths, weavers, perfumers, musicans, and many other trades considered “secular” in our day. When Mel Gipson (spelling) took up the mantel of Prophetic storytelling…

What aspect of the Reformation exposed the unchanging foundations? Those men restored the section of the original structure concerning salvation and growing to maturity grace and Scripture reading; worship and prayer being enjoyed by all the belivers since all are preists.

These must stay because they are the ancient foundations and to change them topals the whole, the ancient, and the good way; necessitating that something new take its place and even Jesus did not do that!

Restore the Apostils and Prophets and the mind of Christ in its fullness will restore the power and the abilities to reach all tribes, toungs, and nations!

What step do we take next? As carefully as restoration of an “old house” or an antique must be our work or we will destroy and not restore. In turn, we allow

ancient power and beauty to emerge. Is not Yahweh about restoration?
Bshem Yeshua,

Pastor Art

How Far from Revival is This Nation?!

2005-05-18T12:47:00.000-07:00

How Far From Revival is this Nation
And
Who is responsible?

Yahweh’s Covenant reflects His nature, justice, righteousness, and holiness. When we fail, He provides mercy and grace for restoration upon our repentance. Its His whole council and cannot be separated when trying to grasp His heart. Whenever contrasts occur in an issue sides inevitably develop and extreme positions form. Each side has its fundamental edges. This issue is no different. Both sides of our God’s nature have a camp. One camp pitches its tent on grace a grace without accountability – ‘Cheep Grace’ in a kind of predetermined dispensationanal progression that is foundationless - an universal restoration. A sister premise teaches that God already knows and is sovereign and does not leave the choice up to us because He already knows and we can not change His mind therefore some are in some are out, a kind of universalistic enie meinie minei mo all will be saved who are saved and this is His sovereign plan. Another camp leave the “Old Testament” behind for the “New” a type of replacement theology
.
The another camp puts down its stakes in a ridged legalistic ground. This encampment develops around social or cultural patterns usually setting its standards of ‘righteousness or holiness’ by the norm of the founders time. Any one not meeting their ideas of conformity are outside ‘God’s Kingdom’ in their estimation.

There is need to get a grasp on this conflict that, I believe Lucifer fuels. In doing so we will be strengthened to be the whole, healthy, and unified Body that Jesus prayed for us to be until He returns. These perceptions can’t help but color how we see events and how we react to them.
2nd Chronicles 7:14 has become a Christian Mantra. There is a context that defines this verse’s promise. It is an answer to a prayer of Solomon during the solemn assembly at the Temple’s dedication; 2nd Chronicles chapters 5-7.
Yahweh’s answer is a Covenantal response (not the least being the fulfillment of Deuteronomy 12 a place of His dwelling) having important conditional parameters. Yahweh addressing Solomon,“ I have heard your prayer, and have chosen this place for Myself as a house of sacrifice.” He then continues with, “If I”, signaling the conditions involved echoing Deuteronomy 26:16 - Chapter 30.
Solomon’s prayer was an outline of the Deuteronomic understanding given to Israel before entering the PROMISE LAND and according to Jeremiah can only be broken when the fixed order of ‘day and night’ can be broken Jere.31:35-37,33:19-26, and Ezekiel gives 2nd testimony to this 37:24-28. Jesus later confirms this in Matt.5:17-20 as a worning!

Deuteronomy 26:16-19 reads, “This day Yahweh your God commands you to do these statutes and ordinances”… (the Torah given to Moses) [The hearers; DELIVERED- SAVED are inside the Covenant as we are today]…“ You shall therefore be careful to do them with all your HEART and with all your SOUL. You have today declared Yahweh to be your God and that you would walk in His ways and keep His statutes, His commandments and His ordinances, and listen to His voice. [this we agree to when we surrender to Jesus - John 14:15,21] And Yahweh has today declared you to be His people, a treasured possession, as He promised you, and that you should keep all His commandments; and that He will set you high above all nations which He has made, for praise, fame, and honor, and that you shall be a consecrated people to Yahweh your God, as He has spoken.” This preamble to the summery of the Covenant is still active and binding, Gal.3:29, Eph. 3:14 -19. The detailed consequences and specific reinstatement instructions often overlooked have defining parameters for our actions today. (Matt.5:17-20)

We are the People called by His name standing together with the “great cloud of witnesses” from time’s beginnings. Therefore, Yahweh speaking to us today says, “If I shut up the heavens”… and any or all the curses spelled out in Deut.27 fall on us, or a country we live, Yahweh, in His faithfulness and justice must act according to His word. He is Sanctified by its coming about as He has spoken. Ezk. 39:27 saying, “in fulfilling what He’s spoken He…SHELL BE SANTIFIED (emphasis added) through His fulfilling actions.” Jesus prays, “ Sanctify them in the truth; Thy word is truth.” It appears that when Yahweh does according to His word/Covenant He proves His faithfulness. When we expect Him to act contrary to His Word, we dishonor Him.

Our land reflects the coursings of Mount Ebal. His Word/truth must define what is out of order. We, called by His name, while seeking His face, concerning our nation must understand that infractions are spelled out in the Scriptures not by man made standards of any of the extreme camps. The Scriptures have the information we need to get in line with the Eternal Covenant that Yahweh will not violate. If we do not agree in our supplications with His directives He will not fulfill the PROMISES, because He is faithful to Himself. When we ask for the promises without coming in line with the truth of His directives we dishonor the Word and person of Yahweh. For Him to bless us when outside the agreed Covenant parameters would make Him a liar.

At the closing of history we are warned, “I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to them, God shell add to him the plagues which are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his part from the tree of life and from the Holy city, which are written in this book. He who testifies to these things says, “ Yes, I am coming quickly…” (Rev.22:17-20a). Moreover if we truly believe that this is a whole book, then it stands to reason when our intercessor [Jesus] issues His closing warning with such consequences we have but one response, humble ourselves by finding out how the Creator’s mandates have been trespassed against. Once He has exposed these things to us through comparing ourselves to His righteousness [revealed to us from His Scriptures] we must pray prayers of repentance! THEN I… Says Yahweh!

It is imperative to ask this question; what does Yahweh’s answer to Solomon look like? Today our ideas of absolutes and objectivity weaken our resolve and understanding of Yahweh. The Scriptures show us these parameters not the standards established by the world. The second phrase … “humble themselves and pray” reveals to us “who will then seek His face” the directions to follow when crying out between porch and alter (Joel2:12-17).

We live in a nation not effected when the hand of Yahweh moves with signs and wonders against us like the alarm sounding in the ears a man deafened through an intoxicated stupor. Like that man this nation turned a little, slammed down the snooze button after 9/11 and the hurricanes, and the fires and the drought and the wild animals in the cities and the and the… Our response, by even those who should know better, was to stand shoulder to shoulder with religious leaders proclaiming and serving gods other then Yahweh, saying all are equal. Just what type of response do we think the God who says , you shall have no other Gods before me and I give My glory to no one but Myself is going to give us?
Pastor Art

Emergent?

2005-05-15T08:27:00.000-07:00

True Emergence - Seed of Faith
From the Ancient Crop in Cleared Ground
What is the task of the church - of Ministry? The answer appears repetitively throughout Scripture. One of the most direct descriptions is as follows;
‘Clear a way for Yahweh in the wilderness;
Make smooth in the desert a highway for our God’
Isaiah 40:3
Isaiah declared this. John the Mikva man (baptiser) took up His mantle. Jesus later preached about the Kingdom. Many in our day are throwing off mantles; inherited anointing from men of ‘old’ who following the Holy Spirit spoke the Kingdom into the Body of Christ. Being alive does mean change and betterment (if that is a word) except today’s concept is more in line with the Karl Marx then the Creator of the universe.
With anger, with disbelief, and confusion you reading this are saying just what does this crazy man mean? Ponder a minute or two or more if need be the process going on today within the ‘ Western Church’.
Most everyone understands that as we stand at this point in history a stagnant pond or rotting corpse better typifies who we have become.
Have you flipped through a catalog of available ’renewal - or revival’ books lately or the general reading from the latest teacher? Let’s see we need a purpose, there are authority figures giving us lists on how to be, better at this and that, or successful habits ‘guaranteed’ to enhance your life your church or just about anything your little heart desires.
Just how does this reflect Karl Marx? He is known for making practical the ideas of changing people and eventually social structures from how they are to what we deem them to be through the ‘dialectic process’.
The concept goes like this; first we state the condition currently understood ‘thesis’. Then, spokesmen perceived as authorities, explain why the state of existence is detrimental and provides the picture of how the change will benefit the listener -‘the antithesis’ Then through some process the ‘old’ most be thrown off and the ‘new’ must be embraced, synthesis. [Now mind you this outline reflects a simplified pattern but a pattern just the same.]
Jeremiah speaking to Israel a nation a people given the revelation of the Creator and His heart and mind for their reason for existence proclaims to them while they were in the same type of predicament as we are today says, ‘Stand by the good ways and see and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is, and walk in it; and you will find rest for your souls.’ Jeremiah 6:16. This directive stands in contradiction to today’s pattern of change imposed upon the ‘Church’ in our day.
Correction in the Body of Christ is needed. Yes! How should this correction take place?
First we need to throw off what encumbers us Paul calls this sin. After that the pattern from Scripture, ‘Clear the way, stand by the ancient way, proclaim His Kingdom’. Nowhere in the teachings of Scripture emerges a mandate to alter existing conditions through casting aside the old. In fact as we have read the direction leans toward recapturing, reestablishing, and instructing the current confused people the ancient ways.
Unless I am totally daft a tender shoot emerging out of cleared prepared ground planted from the old crop best describes Kingdom principals of correction and the true emergent church!!
This is the goal of Gateway of The Rock ministries.
Pastor Art

The Sovereignty of Yahweh

2005-05-09T18:56:00.000-07:00

First of all thinking through an issue is a rare exercise today. We live in an illiterate society, we increasingly exchange information orally and pictorially through the popular media decreasing investigation. Without investigation and research we become an authoritarian society leading to anarchy in turn giving rise to tyrannical leadership. I have subbed in the public school system and my wife is an educator. Over the last 25 - 30 years we have watched this development understanding the ramifications for the future. History shows that as literacy and inquiry dissipate and the “whys” of anything are eliminated and become the standard of a culture that culture will no longer endure. Increasingly if we ask anyone why concerning an issue there is not an answer thought out or based on facts. Please read my post, of April 27, 05, ‘Plagues in the Harvest Field’ for a short outline of what I see in Scripture concerning ‘Sovereignty’.
The debate concerning this idea blinds our eyes to the ‘full Gospel’ or the ‘whole council of God’. After reading ‘Plagues in the Harvest Field’ one sees that I understand Yahweh’s sovereignty different then the classic ‘Calvinist’. By the way as I entered the Kingdom “baby in Christ” I was a double predestination fatalistic, Catholic hating person. As I began to read wider and because I did not, and still do not have a position to defend (read my complete profile) the Scriptures lead me away from this understanding, Romans 6:17b, “…You become obedient from the heart to the form of teaching to which you are committed…” and even to this day with a restored mind guided by Christ’s mind I seek the weaving of the Scripture’s truth forming a complete tapestry of their teaching not a positional watchtower to defend from oncoming teachings outside the walls of my personal view of Scripture. [Although there are orthodox standards for which I would die]
Part of what seems to rule the ‘defending God’s Sovereignty’ issue stems from foundational flaws in our understanding Yahweh’s control or the nature of man. Theses two concepts depend upon one another forming a necessary agreement in the same way a cadence in music begs for tonic resolve.
If total depravity of man means utter unresponsiveness then that view of man does need a god who is unwavering, issuing edicts that have no bearing on the response of man. However, if man is a digressing creature starting from the perfect good estate described as man is before the fall and can respond to the Father’s call through the convection of the Holy Spirit, as Scripture suggests. Then the god who interacts with His creation is revealed within this system. Moreover, on the other side of the pendulum’s swing if we have man as neutral or good even after the Fall seen as entering into this world with a clean slate lacking knowledge. The god in this system becomes a feeble teacher of some type, straining unknowingly and impotent. God unendingly tries to figure out what we will do with the information, and unable to effectually change His created order in reality has no sovereign authority at all.
Genesis tells us creation started perfect. After the perfect creation digressive degenerating evil leading to death entered creation. Jesus confirms this indicating as we approach His second coming the Earth will deteriorate to the point that if He did not intervene then there would be no life on this earth Matt.24:22. The natural order testifies to this as well ponder the first two laws of thermodynamics; perfect state leading to increasing degenerated condition without outside intervention.
As creatures formed in His image we are given abilities reflective of His. This natural/ finite mix of characteristics includes our ability to choose freely between contrasting actions. Free will choice contrary to many arguments does not mean we can choose to control Yahweh read Gen. 11:1-9 and Matt.6:10. Our choices do have predictable/ predestined outcomes. Otherwise our actions would not be choices but instinctive reactions to stimuli or mindless programmed activity like Pavlov and his dogs.
Scripture says after the choice to listen to Lucifer, betraying their Creator, First Man and First Woman exchanged the glory of the Creator for the glory of the created, Rom.1:18-25. An exchange needs actual understanding. The predestined outcome then not completely understood but had to be believed by obedient faith becomes revealed fully in the resultant condition of the earth today and throughout history. We who inherit 1st Adam’s estate now fully comprehend the concept of death which at the time was not revealed, but spoken plainly in the primary Covenant, upheld by free choice, “Then God said, ‘ Behold I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the surface of all the earth, and every tree which has fruit yielding seed; it shall be food for you;’ [Gen.1:29]…And Yahweh God commanded the man, saying, ‘From any tree of the garden you my eat freely; [choice- decision from a free will with options that are not perceptive but actual or man’s children are then not culpable for the outcome. Therefore the inheritance of death and the grave can not be passed on unless each and every one of us has this particular choice]. We inherit the first Adam’s faithless disobedience and its predestined outcome because a ‘covenant’ obligates the family of those who agree together. Therefore the unseen outcome was secret in its completeness to Adam. However, his response to the ‘covenant’ through hope and faith was to trust and obey Yahweh’s Word this can not be expected of one mindlessly acting on a plan he can not participate cognitively in, Habk.2:4,Rom.8:24-25, Heb.11:1,1st Peter 1:3-22.
The response by us who now covenant with the 2nd Adam by freely choosing to turn away from the household of the 1st Adam [slavery of sin Rom.6] must trust through faith and obedience [after salvation] John 15:10 1st John 5, Romans 6. Deut.29:25-29, Col.1:13-29 cognitively for this outcome to be valid, speak of Yahweh’s secret things revealed. Deuteronomy 29:25-29, speaking specifically about Israel in their post Exilic/Saved/Delivered condition reveals the principle example of man able to make actual choices with opposing outcomes. The participant observed is said to have turned away from the Covenant with Yahweh suffering the unforeseen anger . As in the Garden the issue focuses on faith and our persevering and trusting. This we show by our obedience until the full revealing of the secret things, at Christ‘s return. Paul in Colossians most of chapter one, tells us that the veil has been moved revealing that part of this secret of the Father’s heart was the sending of His Son predestined since before the foundations of the world. The outcome of this predestined plan frees men under the inherited curse of 1st Adam. This transfer or imputed inheritance stems from our own free will to choose with better understanding of the outcome of the fruit of the knowledge of good and evil. If we want to be released from the house of Sin’s slavery we answer the conviction of the Father‘s drawing through His Holy Spirit John 16:8-15,Rom. 6. And as per my earlier post we see that this is done smack dab in the middle of the kingdom of Lucifer who at this time rules our steward kingdom Earth, through his lying thieving temptation of which 1st Adam gave in. In fact God’s Devil most likely blinded to the secret things of Yahweh sealed his own doom by hanging the fruit of life - Jesus, on a tree of death. He Jesus, afterward claimed His Sinless inheritance through Resurrection. He being the First Fruits of redemption offers redemption to who so ever will 1st John 2:23,4:13-16 [reflecting Isaiah 43:10-13’s prophecy explained by the Witness -Yeshua in John 5:18-47, 13:13-20, and Acts 5:29-32, and Acts 13:16-39]. The issue of sovereignty of Yahweh viewed from individual, predestine choiceless control, in truth weakens Yahweh and indicates He acts from fear of His Throne and His position.
God-Yahweh is free to do as He pleases, as per Scripture. He pleased Himself to allow us ‘made in His image’ Gen.1:27, to be able to reflect His image. He fearlessly allowed us our choice in the Garden.
We now choose our eternal condition. Considerable experience, gained after eating the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, aids our decision to believe Him or not, Colo.1:13-29 and provides evidence that the promises of the conditions awaiting us in eternity have predestined reality because He decided before hand that those who would not choose to follow His Word after the knowledge of good and evil was revealed and experienced will have no place in eternity with Him; but spend it in Hell.
The result of 1st Adam’s choice surrounds us. On the other hand however, by choosing to eat the fruit of the tree of death - the Cross, we receive ‘life’. Life, explained through the Scriptures, in this day carries the same veiled understanding as death did to the Garden rulers. Therefore, Yahweh’s wisdom allowed His highest created life form (to use SiFi termenalgy) the freedom to either accept or reject his condition while surrounded in the splender of pristeen pre - Fall environment. 1st Adam chose the unknown over the revealed. Moreover as the unknowen aspects of ‘good and evil’ became reality Yahweh knew through His omnipotence the children of 1st Adam would not want to exist in the world filled with Sin because its outcome would be death and we were created for life. Beyond that Yahweh in His Mercy and compassion will put an end to the misery of His people so that we can live Shalom with Him.
True to His nature, Yahweh continues to offer unencumbered choices. However, at this time the outcome of turning away from His Sovoreign lordship surrounds us. We, as they, have no less freedom to choose acceptance of Yahweh’s Word. Part of the difference lies as this time eternity is at stake. Another contrast, lays in what our eyes see. At this time we see what is fading 2nd Corinthians 4:16-18. Our hope rests on the unseen of which we will inherit through faith both defined in Scripture as unseen and unfading. And even creation groans waiting the revealing of what we will be.
What about individuals? Does the Soveriegnity of Yahweh contradict what I have already expressed? Does He fatalistically, like a game of enie menie minie moe chose the damed one by the toe, and if he hollers make him pay 50 more degrees of fire in hell every day? Sound ridicules? Of corse! But I ask you when we apply this same logic to Theological thought can we call it ‘Sound Doctrine‘? Does Yahweh who loves His creation and jealousy contends for us even though we are enemies truly choose damned beloveds?
Adam and Eve both had to succumb to the temptation before Sin, its rule, and its instagater could complete the exchange of truth for the lie, Romans 1:24-25. This condition embodies the promise given to them as a result of their disobeadance and was not a direct punishment. The direct punishment in Yahweh’s plan is enacted after men chooses the second death, rejecting the fruit of life Jesus. This is as true as the law of gravity’s promise displays interaction between failure of a toddler and his first encounter of falling and deliberate jumping off of a bridge in a suicide attempt. Gravity holds us secure to the earth for our welfare. However, if we chose to misuse or go against the promise of gravity and step off of a clift or tall building the result brings death not life. Yahweh’s warning in the Garden spoken to man as protection told what would happen if/when the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil were eaten. This warning like a toddler’s fall produces a scrape or broken bone and in the repair and healing the damage becomes worse before complete restoration happens. You know tearing bleeding scabbing leading to new skin ect. 1st Adam’s eating produced the wound to man that become fatal to him. Our Father needed to provide a skin graft - Jesus, we know the story incarnation. We now know the outcome, when a child misbehaves there is punishment. To reject Christ and His healing skin graft will lead to punishment - Hell.
Man today has the same capacity of Yahweh’s nature/image to choose to stay in the condition or exchange this for the promise of something unseen. The image of the Cross displayed before the nations is the fruit. To be sure the perspective and nature we have at this time of our choosing is not the same as “In the beginning”. In the Garden the Holy Spirit dwelled with in at the time of ones salvation the Holy Spirit is the instrument of the Father’s call on our life from without. Once we surrender to His call He then enters our lives providing strength to persevere until Jesus returns - the end. However, the outcomes are not any different! Here the Doctrine of the nature of man as Sinful is the difficulty. ‘Total depravity’ generally/ popularty understood depicts Man as completely Hell bent without either a desire or capacity to do otherwise. Many of the Scripture texts used for this view in context say something different.
Let us examon the context of what seems to be a classic text on this subject and what I see as the short comings of both sides of this argument. As with any argument people on their own side find proofs that support their thinking or the thinking of the school of thought they either grew up in or are identifying with, Romans 6:17. I must say this here; as any other person Romans 6:17 applies to me, however while growing in Christ He drove me through circumstances, and by my own imquisitivness to explore and participate in conflecting schools of thought within the Body of Christ. When I entered the “Church” from a Pagan lifestyle and worldview I looked at Jesus’ people in confusion and unbelief. Jesus, Paul, John, and the other writers of Scripture through the Holy Spirit command us to Agope one another telling us that our many parts are of the whole and interdependent and necessary (many places in Scripture). But walking among the members of His Body these many years revealed how broken and suspicious we are. The mind of Christ like the natural mind must be connectd or there is brain damage leading to handicapping, illness, retadation, and many other conditions unfavorable! His Spiritural Body The Church is not any different. Therefore while maturing the many schools of thought have become an influence upon my understanding not because I am accommodating but because my ignorance and seeking lead me to understand that we fight over aspects of the weaving of His revealing instead of submitting ourselves to the understanding that the fullness of Christ’s mind resides in our reciving His full counsel revealed finitly within systems of Theology. These systems express a particular aspect or brain cells if you will that need connection through the Holy Spirit (oh no a charismatic), 1st Chorinthians 2:6-16. I think I will refrain from exegetical sword fighting except this example.
Psalm 115:3 is an example of finding a section of the mind of Christ disconnected. This one verse standing alone is used as a nail to join two flopping pices of wood building nothing because there is not connection beyond the enclosed words. This is like examining the DNA of a man to have a relationship with him.
Alone this verse can say that God - Yahweh does as He pleases acting with a predestined ununderstood outcome of which we have no right to question. But, BUT is that the context?! I do not think that to be the case.
The complete Psalm speaks about the contrast between worshiping what we create, see Jeremiah 10:2-15 and worshiping Who created us. Yahweh does what He pleases because He is alive and Sovereign where as idles are not and, ‘[We] who fear Yahweh, trust in Yahweh, He is our help and our shield.’ He is mindful of us; He will bless us;.. verses 11and 12a. A classic Arminian could use this section to prove that Yahweh is influenced by our interaction with Him. Which is correct? BOTH! both are part of the Mind of Christ revealing the heart of the Father Isaiah 40:5, John 14:6,23-26 who by the conviction of the Holy Spirit reveales to the Nations Colo.1:13-29 His Hesed Lovingkindness, mercy, grace, wrath, justice, and predestined plan of the Shepard laying down His life on behalf of the Father for His sheep Ezk.34, John 10, all the offspring of first Adam hearing the call, John 1:12-13, Rom.10:8-20, Acts 2:21,17: 30-31, John 3:15, even through the depravity of the nature of Sin now blinds us darkens our hearts Rom.1:19-22 . When we respond to the Father’s drawing He frees us from the house of sin’s slavery and takes us into the Father’s house freed from sin. We hear the call of eternity placed in our heats, Ecclesiastes 3:11 remaining as a point of contact between us and our Creator for the conviction of the Holy Spirit drawing us to the Father because He desires that none should parish and through the Chosen one, Christ who from the foundations of the world deturmiond to fufill the plan of the Father that we should love Him not from an unalterable state making us like the idles lifeless. But from a chosen love that will not turn again away from His love.
We stand before the scared Yeshua who like His namesake stands before the gathered Nation asking who will we follow chose you this day, we in our rebellion in the same way as Isreal at Mont Carmal waver between two choices, if Baal is lord then… if Yahweh is lord choose this day; real or illusory?
Yahweh, without fear of enchrochment upon His Srovereign place on the Throne created us in His image. This image not mearly a physical form makes us His representatives in the Earth. He Created this earth for us to rule as He rules the rest of creation. Yahweh does not fear our stewardship rule because we can not make choices contrary to His perfect redemptive plan therefore overriding His place, His Sovereign Godhood, because we are not eternal beings but finite. This being true then we who study and teach His word must refrain from adding to the clear complete instruction in an attempt to defend our Creator lest we become like Eve unable to withstand the cleaver temptations of the sceaming lyer because we missed the truth of all the trees for the fear of the single tree. Or as the old proverb says we miss the forest for the tree [s]. Step back please from the trees take in the beauty of the forest, the fragrence of the whole councle of Yahweh is the sweet smelling incence before His throne!
Beruchnu Beshem Yeshua Hamesheah
Pastor Art

Plagues in the Harvest Field

2005-04-27T16:07:00.000-07:00

Over the last couple of weeks as a result of speaking to people about their lives, my mind ran over my past encounters with non - believers who have been exposed to Christians and the Church in their past. Because much of Yahweh’s assignments for me have been among the ‘lepers’ their voices normally are not heard. As a rescue mission pastor, inner city church leader, and currently living and working upon a Native reservation these voices are among the most unheard of these.
What do I hear? What are the complaints, responses, and understandings imbedded within the minds of the outcast tormented, enslaved to addictions, and spiritual darkness? On the one hand “I tried Jesus He either does not care or He dose not listen to me” on the other “look at my life I cannot change I must be predestined to damnation.”
Where do these perceptions come from?
There are two streams of teaching within the Christian community that plague the harvest field.
One offers people salvation based upon an infusion of power that overwhelms the power of influences enslaving them. This concept commonly know as deliverance (many instruct this cycle influences believers as well) claims that a pastor or some other ‘anointed’ practitioner takes control over the spirit causing the person’s action and through this control casts out the spirit of… put whatever you want in there, in my time I have heard spirits of baldness and acne cast out. Each ‘problem’ needs this type of ‘encounter’ therefore ensuring freedom from the spirit that has bound the enslaved person. The casting out of these spirits then results in ’salvation - deliverance’. The truth is that most of the time the problems are lifestyle habits and not demons. When the person relapses or backslides into the old habits they conclude that this Jesus stuff does not work. When people are led to believe that habitual lifestyles can be changed simply by casting out a perceived spirit leading to salvation and then soon afterwards their lives are the same their conclusion that Jesus does not work is a logical one.
The other is this idea of predestination of individuals to either salvation or damnation. There seems to be a need to so protect the sovereign authority of Yahweh that to even think that we have any free will desecrates His place on the Throne and becomes blasphemy. The person being told that they are determined by a predestined plan can know whether or not they are saved by the way they act. In some extreme teachings no one can know if they are saved however everyone should act saved just incase they are saved. People who live godless lives might be saved by Yahweh’s predestined plan but not know it and this predestined plan precludes post salvation rejection of salvation therefore our actions ill or good have no effect on eternal outcomes. To put it in common terms Grace alone implying no response changes salvation prior to coming into understanding God’s predestined plan then no response after can cause us to ‘lose’ our salvation. In effect we can live any lifestyle and God will not change our eternal status.
Why are these problems? Does not Yahweh have power to free enslaved people? Does not the King of the universe have complete perfect control over His plan and purposes? If we can chose or refuse then Yahweh is powerless…? Many of these struggles over the nature of our Creator have no place in the harvest field. Unfortunately they are brought in! The extreme thinking of the individual being totally powerless rules in both these scenarios. On the one hand powerful forces - spirits are so able to control people that they become puppets under their influence unable to break free to be saved and even after salvation.
On the other the dictatorial merciless God indiscriminately decides regardless of our response. Those who hold to this hold up the works argument salvation is through Grace alone not by anything we can do. The key here is alone.
Both of these “Harvest Field Plagues” derive from a flawed view of man and his relationship to His Creator. Man first formed was righteous based on his faith in Yahweh’s word they continued until they had faith in another’s word and acted upon that faith Gen. 1-3. Later Noah Gen.6:9, Heb.11:7 and Abraham Gen.12:1-4, Rom.4:1-3, Heb.11:8-10 are said to have counted to them this righteousness. However, Adam and Eve’s faithless response - disobedient action to Yahweh’s word caused them to lose their place in the Garden and their place of relationship with Yahweh (lose of salvation - original status Gen.3) leading to the bearing of fruit of this action - evil/sins.
Grace is Yahweh’s offering of salvation through the drawing of the Holy Spirit John 6:44, 63-65,convicting the sinner. Once convicted the sinner has a choice to respond to this conviction; having faith in this word to repent John 16:8-11, to repent shuv - to turn, in Hebrew, an action of response. An action of response does not proceed the offer therefore the offer of Grace responded to is not a salvational work but love/ obedience required by Christ as evidence/fruit that is accounted as righteousness and a response empowered by the Holy Spirit after His conviction. A puppet or an unwitting slave can not choose but is compelled. The sovereign authority of Yahweh becomes diminished in this scenario. The sovereign power and the eternal universal authority of Yahweh, He displays through the actions of the Cross: this action, our God enters occupied Earth ruled by the prince of the power of the air-Lucifer John 12:31,24:30, Eph.2:2, who lied about the nature of Yahweh (do I hear an echo), stole the rightful place of Man as ruling stewards of Earth, and killed our innocent intimacy with Yahweh. Yahweh in the man Jesus entered into the occupied Earth through His sovereign authority restored who so ever will, 1st John 2:23, 4:15, 5:1,‘respond’ to His powerful act of Grace back to the innocent intimacy planed - predestined from the foundation of the world. This He did smack dab in the middle of the ruling enemy’s camp. Talk about POWER, SOVEREIGNITY, and AUTHORITY!
What about ‘Deliverance’? Are there powers of evil that can so control men that they have no ability to escape? YES! However, the thinking that leads us to claim that every evil fruit of or lives is result of ‘Satanic’ or ‘Demonic’ control overstates Lucifer’s power (do I hear a lie echoed from a garden?) and eliminates man’s sin nature inherited from First Man / First Woman - Adam and Eve.
If ‘Deliverance’ is the standard operation of ridding evil and its actions out of the repentant one’s life we would have heard Jesus tell the woman about to be stoned, ‘go and be delivered’ instead of, ‘go and sin no more’. Jesus, Paul, and John speak about obedience after salvation as love, as our obligation, the fruit of Yahweh’s Spirit, and evidence of our being His( John 14:15,21, 15:7-10 1st John 5:13f, Eph.5, 2nd Corth.13:5). Deliverance as taught popularly is not Yahweh’s tool used for freeing His followers from the habits/power of sin but a manipulation of the liar saying we are not changed and still need ‘a work’ other then our response to Yahweh’s Grace to change our lives.
I hear over and over through intoxicated, confused, and deceived lips “I went to deliverance but God just won’t or can’t help me, I must be predestined to hell” or a form of this statement. The result, truth about POWER, SOVEREIGNITY,and AUTHORITY are diminished and as Paul asked who has bewitched you?
Pastor Art

Sin

2005-04-08T17:44:00.000-07:00

I visit my son regularly in prison where he is serving time for inappropriate contact with a minor. He entered into this situation as a Christian, a PK, and a leader in the community. As a PK , the restrictions placed on his life by my vocation became devastating. I am not writing this for pity but as a wake up call, Eph.5:14, Rom.13:11 revealing a great need within the Body of Christ.
He never went on the rampage of rebellion that makes for great testimonies or book sales. However, the thought life he kept hidden and struggled with alone became increasingly difficult to reconcile. Through circumstances and foolishness, his action has altered his life. As is quite evident from the press, SOs in truth receive a life sentence regardless of any change. However, this is not the point.
We give credence, even honor to people who struggle with “the fruit of sin” Eph.5:19-21 and overcome them out of a lifestyle of sinful practice prior to conversion but this struggle after conversion is unthinkable. Herein embodies the dichotomy.
At what point in our Spiritual growth to maturity does a particular fruit of the habit of sin become acceptable- pardonable i.e. “Christian” sin and another group become unacceptable-unpardonable i.e. “Pagan” sin? Do not get me wrong, hear me, listen [read] to what I am saying not to the voice in your head saying he says this because it is in his family and he has softened. THIS IS NOT THE CASE! However as a colleague said, the church is about forgiveness and another, if we cannot forgive and restore then we are not doing Christ’s work. How will our children be delivered from those “hidden Pagan” temptations, so they can mature when even speaking of them causes stones to drop on ones head? Have we become a society double minded, refusing to offer grace to one another while boasting that we are under Grace ourselves.
Isaiah 58 speaks about true fasting. He condemns Israel-”My people” V.1as forsaking the ordinances V2 these and other indictments are defined in verses 6-7 and repeated in the rest of the chapter. The oppressed, in bonds, under a yoke, and the rest of the list define members of the community of faith not outsiders. Jesus emphatically declares, ‘…Love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.’ John 13:34-35. Paul rebukes immorality, ‘such as does not exist even among the Gentiles…’ 1st Corth.5:1 and rightly so, and should we when found among us. It would seem that we in the same way as those in Corinth fail to understand Jesus’ love one another command. The command love one another as I have loved you, each one hearing Him betrayed-sinned Him within the next 24 hours. Jesus forgives and restores them when they returned - repented to Him. Paul corrects the Corinthians again because they refused to release the brother from the discipline refusing to forgive and comfort him in his sorrow 2nd Corth.2:5f. 1st John 3:7f defines for us how to discern the righteous form the unrighteous by their practices how they habitually live out their lives not by incidental surrender to temptation no matter how debouched. He earlier says ‘If we confess our sins…’ 1st John 1:5-10.
Do we love-agape release those under bondage within the community of faith? It depends on…? Grace-love covers a multitude of sins. Today at this very moment believers struggle alone because we categorize forgivable and unforgivable their thoughts and temptations. Alone the weakness of the flesh, like water on rock these temptations will eventually overcome in the struggle. This one of the reasons we should not stop meeting together - isolation.
My son wisely said the way the Church treated him (and in many case still treats him) gave anyone watching another reason to hide (isolate) when they need our strength to overcome. “They will know you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” Jesus, King of the universe @ 33ad.
We must become a community of Grace, Mercy, and Forgiveness because even our own are afraid by our hate and faithlessness. Our fear of man and their standards betrays our hearts and greaves the God of Forgiveness. We most listen with out condemnation, Rom.8. Then the conflict of Rom. 7 can be overcome.
Pastor Art
Gateway of the Rock
a ministry of Open Bible Standard Churches

stop fighting

2005-04-01T10:31:00.000-08:00

The Law of None Contradiction
As much as I come late to this argument-conversation, let me insert a concept I learned in the many hours of study of Philosophy under Prof. David Basinger whom some of you in this exchange of words might have heard of or perhaps you've read one of his many writings treating many of these topics.
In the discipline of debate within philosophy is a ruling concept or LAW, my bad, this parameter, called the law of none contradiction. Simply stated; that a concept with in a closed system of thought can not contradict itself and still be true.
A lot of the exchanges that are going on completely disregard this standard of seeking and exploring truth claims. Therefore these exchanges sound more like the Biblical Babel where the gathered peoples of the earth at that time were not able to communicate to one another because the words coming out of their mouth were utter nonsense to the ears they fell upon. The result of that historical event ( that was a defining of what I am thinking so those reading will understand that I see that event as actual not a Myth Cycle with out foundation derived from a single cultural explanation of the current condition of the earth.) dispersed mankind to the assigned time and places set for them, Acts 17, Paul quoting Moses Deut.32:7-8. The end result looks like a boxing ring, between blows combatants retreat to their corners lick their wounds size up their opponents listen to the trainer await the bell and go at it again.
My question; Are we seeking truth…SEEKERS, or are we the embodiment of truth and in our godlike pronouncements flooding the earth to rid it of the rebellious creatures in our solipsistic world pawns we want to serve our egos.
Seeking of truth demands that we honor the historic Laws of knowledge exchange. If we do not we grieve the Holy Spirit who desires that as we seek we come to the end of our such and find TRUTH. Ideas undefined is babel or as the Greek would say is Barbarbar the root of our English Barbarian.
Pastor Art

LABYRINTH - PATH TO TRUTH?

2005-03-31T22:38:00.000-08:00

The Edges of Truth
Believers (for clarity when I use this my meaning is the congregation of people who have placed their Faith in the Creator-Yahweh from the time of Adam even until this day. Abraham is no less a believer through Grace then anyone today Gal 3:29 this is a subject for a future writing) anyway believers throughout the ages particularly in ‘the Church Age’ have been guilty of two extreme reactions to newly encountered people groups. On the one hand there is the total elimination of any aspect of their native/cultural spiritual lives. On the other hand there is the blending in-total forming a syncretistic worship form. Both are Biblically WRONG!

‘The Preacher‘ who most believe to be King Solomon of Israel in his reflections on the life he lived called Ecclesiastes says in Chapter 3:11, ‘He, Yahweh, has made everything appropriate in its time. He has also set eternity in their heart.’ Solomon’s words here are lament and despair resultant of his observation of man and his turning away from the God of his Father’s to serve the gods’ of his wives. His observation is true, Yahweh has set eternity in the heart of man. Paul later explains that, ‘…That which is known about God is evident to them (those who are godless, unrighteous, men who suppress the truth, verse 18). For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been seen, being understood through what has been made, so they are without excuse Romans 1:18-20.
The question; what does this have to do with a labyrinth?
The presentation of the labyrinth walk has more to do with worship, how should a person act out their worship? Does a particular action reflect a particular ‘religious system’? Can that form transcend the perceived origin? These questions appear to be implied in Paul’s concluding statement to the above, ‘For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God, or give thanks; but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the incorruptible God for an image in the form of corruptible man and birds and four-footed animals and crawling creatures. Therefore God gave them over in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, that their bodies might be dishonored among them. For they exchanged the truth of God for a lie, (by the way this is the original Sin-not sex or eating the apple ect) and worshiped and served the creature (Satan is a created being) rather then the Creator, who is blessed forever Amen’ Romans 1:21-25.
Now I know some of you are going to spout off that has to do with homosexuality, however homosexuality and other actions we sin are the fruit of the exchange planted into mankind in the Garden, ‘God gave them over to’ not they acted this way which in turn God declared them sinners. Sinful actions grow from exchanging truth for lie. Creation explains that at harvest time we reap what we sow, corn seeds will not give us apple trees. Yeshua, repeatedly spoke about fruit as evidence of the type of seed hidden or planted, Matt.7:16-20, 12:33. James teaches this principle using an artesian spring and tree types, James 3:11-12.
Let us turn another direction. This derives from the response people offer who want to change the subject of their place before the Creator. What about people who have not heard about Jesus? Or what about my ancestors who did not hear they are burning in Hell because your God is mean without mercy… whatever.
What did The Holy Spirit lead Paul to write, God made Himself evident and clearly seen. That means that there were people who recognized Him and did not reject Him, we have revealed evidence of that Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and they are not the only ones or the only people group. There is a testimony about an Inuit shaman who before Europeans came heard a snippet about a God who sent His Son to die for him. Upon hearing about this the shaman went out to the ice and performed the ceremony he knew and prayed for revelation about this. Through the ‘Pagan’ practice the Creator revealed Himself to the shaman and he went back and told his people they were going to worship this God. Later a missionary came and told them the rest of the story and their response was we know Him finish the story. Did those who died before the European contact end up in Hell? They were worshiping the Creator worshiping Him in the way that their culture developed.
Believing in what we do not see is Faith, we are saved through hope which is also unseen and what can be seen is fading away, He our Savior was foreknown before the foundations of the world, Heb.11:1, Rom.8:24-25, Gal.4:18, before the development of the ‘non-pagan’ worship. Was Yahweh-the Creator not worshiped until the Europeans formed their culture and the worship forms that derived from that culture.
We must understand that all the nations of the Earth are His arrangement. All the cultures and their expressions of Thankfulness, joy, and worship are by the Creators design and desire.
We can not over look Acts 17 where Paul while seeking an opportunity to find within the ‘totally’ Pagan Athens he finds evidence of the ‘unseen-unknown god’ being worshiped. Paul’s response to this, ‘What you worship (emphasis mine) in ignorance, this I proclaim to you.’ Paul went on to affirm the vastness of the Creator and explained that they had received everything from Him, and it was, ‘He [who] made from one, every nation of mankind to live on the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times, and boundaries of their habitation’ reflecting Deut.32:7-8 and Gen.11.
Are we made in the image of Yahweh? That is what the Scriptures proclaim! Did He make mankind scatter over the face of the earth? Read Gen.1:28, 9:7, the deepest desire unchanged even after Sin inhabited man after the Fall; swarm over the earth, populate it, fill it with your children. From Gen.11 we come to understand that His rationale for this was man would become multi- cultured reflecting the multi-dimensioned aspect of Himself which no one man nor one culture could contain. It follows then that each of the expressions coming forth as worship from these cultures is His plan form man’s worship of Himself. When John in Revelation looked over the sea of people made up of every Tribe, Tongue, and Nation worshiping in the perfected state how could he-John tell. By the cultural worship each poured out before the Throne.
Let us turn back to the labyrinth. PAGAN? WHY? Does walking a labyrinth intricately by your actions cause you to exchange the Glory of the Creator for the glory of something created? By walking a labyrinth are you committing an immoral activity of some type?
NO!
Remember Paul teaches that their hearts were darkened not the actions performed! We most also remember that Sin is exchanging glory and what we have ignorantly called sin is its fruit-Gal.5:16ff. Is geometry and using it to meditate on the Creator-Yahweh; Father, Son, And Holy Spirit SIN and therefore PAGAN?
Pastor Art

Written Easter Season 2004

2005-03-25T13:48:00.000-08:00

Healing Whip
(Whippings of Healings)
Isaiah 53

My Father’s House shall be a house of prayer, so the nations can come before Him
He who roams throughout the earth in His Temple saw theft heard deceptive words
Salvation’s hand moved by zeal took a whip and cleared His Father’s house
Salvation’s hand touched the blind and lame, with mercy drove their maladies out
Our sorrows He carried our sickness He Himself bore
They fell upon Him whippings of healings and peace

Hands soon to be tied and bound oppressed judged, despised, forsaken
Yahweh’s Lamb led to slaughter, iniquities, griefs, our guilt offering
The whip it heals with each lash on His back we are the anguish of His soul
Intercession through the whip that heals crushed our well-being fell upon Him

The Father now satisfied His Servant has justified us
His intercession bore our iniquities

Arthur Brokop
written for Ollie, who was protraying Jesus in the Passion Play of the Four Corners

I Corintians 3: 16-19

2005-03-22T07:27:00.000-08:00

"Do you not know that you are a temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If any man destroys the temple of God, God will destroy him, for the temple of God is holy, that is what you are. Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you thinks that he is wise in this age, let him become foolish that he may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness before God. For it is written, “He is the One who catches the wise in their craftiness."

In Proverbs 9:10 (and many other places) we are told that the fear of YHWH is the beginning of wisdom and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. Paul, in First Corinthians, tells us that we are able to understand the spirit or the depths of ourselves. But he adds that once we become followers of Jesus we receive His Spirit. He tells us that a man who has not received Jesus only has the ablility to understand natural or unspiritual things. So when we debate concepts of eternal signifigance with people who have not surrendered their lives to the Creator through His Son Jesus, there are two levels of understanding going on. And as Paul says at the end of First Corinthians chapter 2, those who understand only on one level consider spritiual knowledge, which leads to provable truth, as foolishishness. Therefore we who have the ability to think and understand on both levels would be wise to mirror spiritual wisdom in natural illustration. Therefore speaking the language of the foolish to bring them to true wisdom.