THE LAW OF THE SPIRIT OF LIFE -- (Rom. 8:2)

THE LAW OF THE SPIRIT OF LIFE -- (Rom. 8:2)

The apostle had just told the Romans that their service to God should no longer be "in the oldness of the letter," but in "newness of spirit" (Rom. 7:6), and declared, "If any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His." He also declares that "the Spirit is life" (8:10) . Hence the person who has the Spirit is quickened and made alive unto God; has spiritual life.

Not only so, but he also speaks of "the law of the Spirit of life." We suppose that this means that the Spirit operates according to a certain law; that spiritual life is subject to certain spiritual laws, or rules. We are told that law is "a rule of being or of conduct established by an authority able to enforce its will. The rule according to which things proceed." It is well to understand that God does not do things in a haphazard way in the realm of the spiritual any more than He does in the material universe; that in the spiritual as in the natural, He operates according to certain established laws, so it is not so much a question as to what God could do, but rather what He does do. Doubtless there are many things God could do, if it were simply a question of power, that He does not do, simply because it is not in accord with His plan.

When once we can ascertain "the rule according to which things proceed" in a given matter, we can speak with confidence and assurance, seeing that with Him there "is no variableness, neither shadow of turning." Hence we declare that if God accomplished the work of entire sanctification in one person at the time of regeneration He evidently does this in all whom He regenerates; for with Him there is no partiality. But if it can be shown, by the word of God, that men have not been entirely sanctified co-etaneous with their regeneration, then we are safe in concluding that such is not "the rule according to which things proceed" in the spiritual realm; and that, therefore, they who make such claims are mistaken. For if we allow that there is a divergence from this rule we would be under the necessity of believing that God has no regard for the laws He has Himself instituted, and that He must not only show a disregard for "THE LAW of the spirit of life," but evidently must be partial, as well as haphazard in His dealings with His children.

We think it is not difficult to prove by the scripture that the apostles, nor the Galatians, nor the Ephesians, nor the Thessalonians, nor the Corinthians -- with many others -- were not sanctified when converted; but, as believers, were urged on to this experience and prayed for, and in at least some instances, obtained this experience subsequent to their regeneration. It would be absurd to urge them on to that, and pray for that which they already possessed.

Of the Corinthians, Paul said, "I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ" (1:4). He says to them in the third chapter, "Ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building." "All things are yours . . . and ye are Christ's; and Christ is God's." He addresses them as "brethren," and as "babes in Christ" and speaks of having fed them with "milk," thus indicating that they were born and had spiritual life, but after this he tells them most emphatically, "Ye are yet carnal." So it is evident that the Corinthians were not sanctified wholly at the time of their regeneration.

In his letter to the Thessalonians, we note that the entire first chapter is an acknowledgment and commendation of their spiritual experience, even saying they were "examples to all that believe," and that their "faith to Godward is spread abroad; so that we need not speak anything;" he then proceeds to tell them in the fourth chapter, "This is the will of God even your sanctification." In the fifth chapter and fifth verse he declares, "Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day," and concludes his letter with the prayer, "And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly," and gives the assurance, "Faithful is He that calleth you, who also will do it." So it is evident they were not sanctified when regenerated, or the apostle would not have subsequently urged it upon them, nor prayed that they might yet receive that experience. We must then conclude that sanctification, according to "the law of the spirit of life" is an experience subsequent to regeneration.

The Spirit and the Word always agree. The Word of God is always "the rule according to which things proceed" when wrought out by the Spirit.

When we speak of law, or think of law, we do not refer to something that is variable, nor optional, but to something that is unalterable and obligatory -- if not compulsory. And the failure to conform to law incurs guilt and penalty.

In order to live, in the physical world, there must be the observance of certain laws of life, known as the laws of nature, and the laws of health, the failure to observe these laws of life invariably brings one under another law, namely, the law of death. It is precisely so in the spiritual world. The apostle testifies, "The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death." By this we see that there is such a thing as deliverance and freedom not only from guilt and sinning, but from "the law of sin," which he said in the preceding chapter, was in his "members," and brought him into "captivity" (7:23).

"Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum:"

1. To belong to Christ, we must have the Spirit. "If any man have not the Spirit of Christ he is none of His."

2. He that has the Spirit of Christ has spiritual life. "The Spirit is life."

3. He that now has spiritual life must observe "the law of the Spirit of life." "As many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God."

4. That they who are "led by the Spirit" -- that is, follow on and observe "the law of the spirit of life," will find a deliverance from the "law of sin" which is in their "members."

5. That this deliverance is an experience subsequent to the quickening of the Spirit, or the impartation of spiritual life.

6. That this experience brings freedom from that inward condition that brought us into captivity, and is the divine rule according to which things proceed."

Praise the Lord!

We mean to say that the foregoing is a fixed rule designated as "the law of the Spirit of life," and that all who truly obtain the experience of entire sanctification obtain it according to this law; and, therefore, conclude that every other claim or teaching is erroneous. That they who claim they were sanctified at the time of their conversion, or expect to attain it by growth, or by death, or whatever the theory, are wholly unscriptural, and out of harmony with "the law of the Spirit of life."

YET CARNAL

YET CARNAL

In his letter to the Corinthians (I. Cor. 3:3) the Apostle Paul declares that they are "yet carnal," though he had said in the first chapter and fifth verse, "I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Christ Jesus." Thus we see that the Apostle recognized the fact that the carnal mind did yet co-exist with the "grace of God" in the heart of the regenerate. That although they were "babes in Christ," and had spiritual life, "so that they could partake of milk" -- spiritual nourishment -- and were "God's husbandry" and "God's building," (v. 9) and had fallen heir to "all things" (v. 21), yet there remained in their hearts that root of evil from which sprang "envying, and strife, and divisions," which, of course, was in their way, and contrary to the new life they had received.

And what was true of young converts at Corinth is true of young converts everywhere. It is well to remember that God does not have a half dozen ways of converting folks; that He does not do things arbitrarily, but moves according to fixed laws in the spiritual world as in the natural world; hence we may safely conclude that so far as the work divinely inwrought at conversion is concerned, it is precisely the same in each case: no more and no less. With Him there is no respect of persons; just as He forgives every sin, quickens into newness of life, and adopts into His family one person who truly repents He does every person who truly repents.

That there yet remains in every regenerate heart, subsequent to conversion, a principle that is antagonistic to the new life is taught by all evangelical denominations, and soon becomes the self-evident experience of all young converts; while he has a new heart he does not yet have a pure heart. As Mr. Wesley wrote in his Journal June 24, 1740: "Sin does remain in one that is justified, though it has not dominion over him. For he has not a clean heart at first." Dr. Pendleton, who is a most orthodox Baptist and an authority in Baptist theology both in England and America, has said in his "Christian Doctrines," on page 300, speaking upon the subject of Sanctification: "Regeneration breaks the power of sin and destroys the love of sin, so that whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin in the sense of being the slave thereof; but it does not free the soul from the presence and pollution of sin. Alas! the regenerate know full well that sin is in their hearts. This accounts for the Christian warfare." Pope, who was a Wesleyan theologian and an accepted authority on Christian doctrine in Methodism, speaking on the subject of sanctification, Vol. II, page 64, says: "Sanctification in its beginnings, process and final issues is the full eradication of the sin itself, which, reigning in the unregenerate, CO-EXISTS WITH THE NEW LIFE IN THE REGENERATE, is abolished in the wholly sanctified."

While the foregoing is in fullest harmony with the teaching of the Scripture, the theologies of the various denominations and universal Christian experience, it seems necessary that we should distinguish between being "yet carnal" and being "carnally minded." "For to be carnally minded is death." Rom. 8:6.

To be carnally minded, we suppose, would imply that a person was yet under the dominion and control of this sin principle in the heart; that where the carnal mind gains the ascendency, and reigns, and enslaves the soul, it results in spiritual death; the margin speaks of it as "the minding of the flesh." Thus, just as God has said "the soul that sinneth, it shall die," so, "to be carnally minded is death."

Thus we see the nature and danger of the carnal mind. That while "regeneration breaks the power of sin," so that it does not reign in the heart of the young convert, it, nevertheless, greatly imperils the soul; and in case it gains the ascendency will again plunge the soul into death.

It is as though a man convicted of a felony and sentenced to die were pardoned by the Chief Magistrate, and thus escaped the penalty of the law he had broken and yet were afflicted with some malignant disease, which were hastening him to his death; but, thank God, this disease of the soul, designated as the carnal mind, is not an incurable disease, for Jesus, our Great Physician, can utterly eliminate and eradicate the "least and last remains of sin" from the soul, and make us every whit whole. "Where sin abounded grace did much more abound." But if the cure is not sought and obtained, this disease of the soul will eventually prove fatal, and the new life obtained in regeneration is forfeited and spiritual death ensues.

Surely any one should see the necessity and importance of the second work of grace; and that pardon, by which a guilty sinner escapes the penalty of death, due to his transgression of the law, is one thing, and the curing of the deadly disease, and restoration to perfect health of the pardoned man is entirely another thing. What health is to the body, holiness is to the soul.

Who would not desire complete deliverance from the deadly malady of sin, and rejoice in being made completely whole? Thank God! in Jesus we may have the double cure -- a full pardon for all our actual transgressions and complete cleansing from the inherited, indwelling sin. "If we walk in the light as He is in the light, the blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from all sin." I. John 1:7.

The Severity of Hell Part 3

 I have previously written the following as introductions to the Scripture review on the topic of hell:

This is part 2 of this teaching on hell. How long has it been since you heard a sermon on hell? Do you consider the subject tasteless and unloving? If so, how do you reconcile the fact that Jesus taught on hell? If He is your Master, why do you not follow Him? I wrote the following in part 1:

If you attend church on a regular basis, how long has it been since you heard a message on hell? Most pastors prefer to teach on the soft and gentle subjects like love, grace, blessings and happiness. If a pastor never preaches on hell, you may rest assured that they are an unsaved hireling working for Satan under cover as a minister. How can I say that? Simple, if I was a watchman on  bridge and I knew the bridge was out because it had been sabotaged by a cruel individual in the midst of a storm and I saw cars headed that way and I only told them how great the road was and how wonderful the view, I would not be a true watchman. I would be someone who was working for the cruel individual that sought to destroy as many people as he could with his plan to kill and destroy.

An article was published on July 25, 2021, by the Washington Times. The article stated that "Fake Christianity" has supplanted Biblical Christianity in America. The Fake Christianity has at its core what is referred to as Moralistic Therapeutic Deism. MTD believes that we are here to be good people and try to do good. Everything is supposed to be geared to making you happy. MTD believes that there is a distant God who just wants you to be happy. So away with the prohibitions on homosexual behavior, lust, infidelity and any thing that makes you feel unhappy, and of course that includes the topic of hell. 

People are going to hell that think they are Christians and we that know the truth have a command to tell the lost the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ and includes His teaching about hell. The following are additional Scriptures to study:

1. Punishment of, is eternal: Isaiah 33:14: "The sinners in Zion are afraid; Fearfulness has seized the hypocrites: 'Who among us shall dwell with the devouring fire? Who among us shall dwell with everlasting burnings?'"

2. The wicked shall be turned into: Psalm 9:17: "The wicked shall be turned into hell, And all the nations that forget God." (BLJ: this most assuredly must include the USA given the anti Christian government in place and the hypocritical "Christians" that supported putting it in power.

3. Body and soul suffer in: Matthew 10:28: "And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell."

4. The wise avoid: Proverbs 15:24: "The way of life winds upward for the wise, that he may turn away from hell below.

5. Hell is getting bigger: Isaiah 5:14: "Therefore hell hath enlarged herself, and opened her mouth without measure...."

Reader friend, consider the Scriptures on hell. It is to be avoided at all costs. It will be eternal and severe. Find a church that preaches against hell and gives you the way of salvation, not some sugar coated easy believeism or decisionism. Know the gospel: Christ crucified, Christ buried, Christ resurrected, Christ ascended and Christ exalted!

The Severity of Hell Part 2

 

This is part 2 of this teaching on hell. How long has it been since you heard a sermon on hell? Do you consider the subject tasteless and unloving? If so, how do you reconcile the fact that Jesus taught on hell? If He is your Master, why do you not follow Him? I wrote the following in part 1:

"If you attend church on a regular basis, how long has it been since you heard a message on hell? Most pastors prefer to teach on the soft and gentle subjects like love, grace, blessings and happiness. If a pastor never preaches on hell, you may rest assured that they are an unsaved hireling working for Satan under cover as a minister. How can I say that? Simple, if I was a watchman on  bridge and I knew the bridge was out because it had been sabotaged by a cruel individual in the midst of a storm and I saw cars headed that way and I only told them how great the road was and how wonderful the view, I would not be a true watchman. I would be someone who was working for the cruel individual that sought to destroy as many people as he could with his plan to kill and destroy."

More Scriptures on hell:

1. A lake of fire: Rev. 20:15: "And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire."

2. Fire and brimstone: Rev. 14:10: "he himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out full strength into the cup of His indignation. He shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb."

3. Unquenchable fire: Matthew 3:12: "His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor, and gather His wheat into the barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire."

4. Outer darkness: Matthew 8:12: "But the sons of the kingdom will be cast out into outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth."

5. Devouring fire: Isaiah 33:14: "The sinners in Zion are afraid; Fearfulness has seized the hypocrites: 'Who among us shall dwell with the devouring fire? who among us shall dwell with everlasting burnings?'"

Friend, are you in danger of hell fire? Are you among the "unsaved religionists?" Do you think you are a "good person" and your righteousness will earn you a place in heaven? NO!!! Only through the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ may you enter into the glories of heaven. 

The Severity of Hell

If you attend church on a regular basis, how long has it been since you heard a message on hell? Most pastors prefer to teach on the gentle subjects like love, grace, blessings and happiness. If a pastor never preaches on hell, you may rest assured that they may be a problem. Jesus taught on hell. So should our pastors and teachers. How can I say that the failure to preach on hell is a problem? Simple, if I was a watchman on  bridge and I knew the bridge was out because it had been sabotaged by a cruel individual in the midst of a storm and I saw cars headed that way and I only told them how great the road was and how wonderful the view, I would not be a true watchman. I would be someone who was working for the cruel individual that sought to destroy as many people as he could with his plan to kill and destroy. 

For the next few days, we look at the severity of hell looking only at the Scriptures. The following set forth the severity of hell:

1. Everlasting punishment: Matthew 25:46: "And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life."

2. Everlasting fire: Matthew 25: 41: "Then He will also say to those on the left hand, 'Depart from Me, you cursed, into everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels."

3. Everlasting burnings: Isaiah 33:14: "The sinners in Zion are afraid; Fearfulness has seized the hypocrites: 'Who among us shall dwell with the devouring fire? Who among us shall dwell with everlasting burnings.'" 

4. A furnace of fire: Matthew 13:42: "and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth."

We will examine more Scriptures to show you how awful hell is. 

If your pastor hasn't preached on hell in years, ask him why not? Ask him doesn't he believe in hell? Then, ask him if he is born again. If he says yes, ask him for his testimony.

Have you been born again?

This is the most important question you will ever answer? Have you been born again? Is Jesus Christ the Lord of your life?

I have been speaking on my pod cast on being a slave for the Lord Jesus Christ, not being ashamed of the gospel and on the dangers of preaching "another gospel." My concern is that many people who claim to be Christians don't seem to have the same salvation as we read about in the Holy Bible. Over the last few weeks, I have seen or heard of professing believers involved as follows:

1. Leaving their spouse because of past hurts;

2. Using foul and abusive language including profanity;

3. Lusting after someone not your spouse;

4. Being deceptive including lying;

5. Making financial success their main goal.

Candidly, I could go on, but the point is made that many people who claim to be Christians are not living like they are. Two Scriptures to meditate (means to mutter, i.e. speak to yourself softly) on:

1. Matthew 7: 21-23: "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I (Jesus) profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity."

2. John 14: 15: "If ye love me (Jesus), keep my commandments."

A true believer is one that has had the Holy Spirit convict them that they are a sinner in need of a Savior. It is not about "accepting Christ" or "making a decision for Jesus." It is about having a radical transformation with the Lord Jesus Christ. A key word is "Lord." 1 Corinthians 12: 3 states in part: "and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost." 

Listen carefully to people who say things like, "I believe in God," or "I accepted Jesus," or "I made a decision for Jesus." No one is saved unless Jesus is their Lord and Savior. "He must be Lord of all or He is not Lord at all." And, no one will see that He is Lord until they see their lost condition.

A final thought: are you born again? If so, how did the Lord Jesus Christ save you?More to follow.

Lesson Four of the Quarter: The Temple Completed

 Today's lesson comes from Ezra 6: 2-15. Fifteen years have passed from the time that construction of the temple had stopped until the time Haggai and Zechariah began to preach. The people responded, work began, but new opposition from Tatnai, the governor of the territory east of the Euphrates created new issues. Tatnai started asking questions such as, "Who commanded you to build this house?" When the people told him that king Cyrus had ordered the project, Tatnai sent a letter to the current king Darius to search the records to see if Cyrus had really ordered the work. 

At the heart of this lesson is the overriding power of God in the affairs of men and nations. Tatnai attempts to frustrate the Jew's efforts to rebuild the temple. God turns the situation around, and Tatnai is ordered to assist the Jews. If you have had someone or group come against you, then this study will provide you hope that God will bring about His perfect plan. No man can stop His purposes.

The first section is "A Written Record." vv. 1-5 As a result of Tatnai's request, king Darius ordered a thorough search in the house of rolls in Babylon. A record was found in the royal place at Achmetha. Cyrus' degree set forth the dimensions of the reconstructed temple, as well as instructions for the inner court. So, Tatnai was wrong and would have to be informed that Cyrus had in fact issued the decree to reconstruct the temple.

The summary points for this sections:

1. It is important to keep accurate records, especially in our day and age.

2. The Jews had a mandate from Cyrus and more importantly one from God.

3. If there is a conflict between man's laws and God's laws, "we ought to obey God rather than men." (Acts 5: 29)

The second section is "A Decree Made." vv. 6-12 Darius had married the daughters of Cyrus, and had a high regard for him. We know that the law of the Medes and Persians could not be vchanged once3 made. Thus, Darius confirmed Cyrus' decree and issued his own degree with four parts:

1. Darius ordered Tatnai and their associates to leave the Jews alone and offer no hindrances to them.

2. Not only was Tatnai not to hinder the work, but he was charged to pay the expenses of the workers.

3. Darius ordered that if anyone violated his decree, the violator would be hung from a beam from his house. In addition, the person's property would be made into a garbage dump.

4. There was to be no delay in the carrying out of Darius' decree. 

The summary points of this section:

1. God is able to turn a situation completely around so that those who would be our persecutors become our benefactors.

2. The expenses of building the kingdom should be underwritten by others so they can devote their energies to work for the Lord.

3. Even non believers will seek true believers to pray for them.

The fourth section is "The Temple Finished." vv. 13-15 Tatnai and his associates lost no time in carrying out the degree of Darius. Provisions including expense money, animal sacrifices, and offerings were on their way to Jerusalem. The Jews made continuous progression to complete the temple. Haggai had tod them of God's promised blessings if they would build the temple (Hag. 2). Zechariah keep everyone focused on the coming Messiah. A spiritual revival accompanied the construction of the temple. In all the rebuilding, God was at work. He inspired the prophets and raised up leaders. God's timing was perfect. He gave the Jews victory over all the opposition. God can use every means He wants, including heathen leaders and un believers. The "house was finished," after seventy years of being a pile of rubble.

The summary points of this section:

1. Obedience to God's Word brings blessings.

2. God keeps His promises and accomplishes His perfect will.

3. God is Sovereign over the affairs of men and nations.

The Golden Text is: "That they may offer sacrifices of sweet savours unto the God of Heaven." (Ezra 6: 10) The temple was the center of Jewish religious life. Their sacrifices for sin, offerings of gratitude and fellowship, all prefigured Christ and His redemptive work. Centuries later, Jesus would give His life for His sheep. Today, we give ourselves to Him in response to the love He has shown to us. 

Next week: "Haman's Wicked Plot." (Esther 3: 1-13)

THE TWO-FOLD NATURE OF SIN

THE TWO-FOLD NATURE OF SIN

The failure to recognize the fact that our difficulty is two-fold, accounts for much of the confusion and controversy regarding what is known as "the second blessing." Hence, some may be heard to say they "do not believe in any half-way work; that when God pardoned their sins he pardoned all of them," etc. Just as though we taught and believed but half of their sins had been forgiven, and now we would have them come and have the other half forgiven. Of course, the holiness people neither believe nor teach anything of the kind. Certain it is that when God pardons a sinner He pardons every sin he has ever committed, and the soul is made to rejoice in a perfect pardon.

There is no occasion nor necessity of under-rating or minifying the experience of justification in order to make place for the second experience. Instead of saying that justification is but a half-way experience, we would prefer to say that justification itself includes at least twelve distinct and perfect works, though they occur simultaneously, as follows: a perfect conviction; a perfect surrender; a perfect repentance; a faith that perfectly trusts God; a perfect pardon; a perfect washing of regeneration, removing all acquired pollution; a perfect quickening into newness of life; a perfect adoption; the love of God shed abroad in the heart; power to forsake and cease from all sin; the witness of the spirit; obedience to all the light God gives. All this and more enters into the experience of every person who is truly and scripturally justified; but all this has to do with sin as an act -- sins committed.

The fact of original sin, innate, inborn, is just as clearly set forth, in the Scripture as is the fact of sins committed. David said, "Behold, I was shapen in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me." (Ps. 51:5). Elsewhere it is spoken of as "the carnal mind," "the law of sin," "the flesh," "sin that dwelleth in me," "body of death," "the sin of the world," "our old man," etc., etc. Theologians speak of it as "depravity," "inbred sin," "original sin," "the Adamic nature," "a tendency to evil," etc. Mr. Charles Wesley spoke of it as "our bent to sinning." Almost every church in Christendom makes some reference to this fact of "original sin" in its theology and hymnology, if not in the credal statements The Methodist Episcopal Church says in her Discipline, Article No. 7, "Original sin standeth not in the following of Adam (as the Pelagians do vainly talk), but it is the corruption of the nature of every man, that naturally is engendered of the offspring of Adam, whereby man is very far gone from original righteousness, and of his own nature inclined to evil, and that continually." This "corruption of the nature of every man" cannot be pardoned, seeing it is not an act of sin, but may be purged and cleansed away.

It is from this "corruption of the nature" -- the "carnal mind" -- that anger, and envy, and doubt, and fear, and pride, and unholy ambition, etc., emanate. And as the Anglican Confession says, "This infection of nature doth remain, yea, even in them that have been regenerated." In the nature of the case it cannot be pardoned, for the simple reason that we did not commit it; but, thank God, there is power in Jesus' blood to wash and cleanse it away.

In view of this two-fold difficulty -- sins committed and the sin nature inherited -- Toplady sang:

"Be of sin the double cure,

Save from wrath and make me pure."

Mr. Wesley said: "Sin does remain in one that is justified, though it has not dominion over him. For he has not a clean heart at first." (Wesley's Journal, dated June 24, 1740.) In his sermon on "The Repentance of Believers," he said, "Although we may weaken our enemies day by day; yet we cannot drive them out. By all the grace which is given in justification we cannot extirpate them. Though we watch and pray ever so much, we cannot wholly cleanse our hearts or hands. Most surely we cannot till it please our Lord to speak to our hearts again, to speak the second time, 'Be clean,' and then only the leprosy is cleansed. Then only the evil root, the carnal mind is destroyed, and inbred sin subsists no more." (Vol. 1, page 208.)

The promise is, "If we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from all sin." A sinner is in darkness and surely cannot "walk in the light as He is in the light." Only a pardoned man is in the light, and to him alone comes this promise of cleansing "from all sin."

*     *     *     *     *     *     *

05 -- NOT SANCTIFIED WHEN CONVERTED

It is folly to claim an experience that is unscriptural. Yet, whenever the doctrine of entire sanctification as a second work of grace is proclaimed, we constantly hear people -- even preachers -- say, they were sanctified when converted. We insist that such a claim is wholly unscriptural and, therefore, untrue. God never does things contrary to His Word.

That some persons may be sincere in their claims, we do not deny; but if they will look into the Scriptures and walk in the light, they will soon discover their mistake, for not only is the claim unscriptural, but contrary to their own heart experience, and the facts in their own lives. We are persuaded that no Christian has lived in the experience of regeneration any considerable length of time without finding that there was yet a something within that was contrary to their new life; that when they would do good, this evil thing was yet present and gave them battle; that since they were converted they still have felt the stirrings of carnality, in the form of anger, pride, fear, self-will, envy, peevishness, doubts, etc., etc. Frequently we have helped persons to see they were not sanctified when converted by simply asking one question with reference; to this fact: "Have you not felt any of those things stirring in your heart since you were converted?" They may not manifest themselves violently, or gain the mastery as they once did, but they nevertheless exist, and frequently bother and badger and hinder in the experience of the justified. This alone proves that the soul was not sanctified when converted.

As Mr. Wesley has said, "Sin does remain in one that is justified, though it has not dominion over him. For he has not a clean heart at first." (Wesley's Journal, June 24, 1740.)

Aside from the fact that not one single command, or call, or promise of sanctification in the Scripture is ever given to a sinner, but in every instance to God's own people, there are a number of reasons why the soul should not be sanctified when converted.

First, the sinner knows nothing about sanctification, and has never felt any need of sanctification. The thing that troubles every sinner is the guilt and condemnation he feels for sins committed; and what he wants and must have is mercy, and the forgiveness of the many sins he has committed. The one cry of a truly penitent soul is, "God be merciful to me, a sinner." And though preachers insist they were sanctified when converted. and deny the teaching of a second experience, they themselves could not be persuaded to give an invitation to sinners to come forward and seek sanctification. It occurs to us, that if sanctification was for sinners, they should be told about it, and urged to seek it. If God were to sanctify a sinner he could have no appreciation of the same, as he had never felt any need of it, and consequently had not sought it.

A second reason why God does not sanctify a soul in regeneration is because a sinner cannot meet the conditions for sanctification. The conditions upon which a soul is regenerated are repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ; but those are not the conditions of sanctification at all. The requirements for sanctification are an unconditional consecration -- the presenting of one's self as a "living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God." A sinner, being dead in trespasses and in sins could not possibly present himself a "living sacrifice;" only such as have previously been quickened into newness of life, and so have been made alive unto God can present themselves a living sacrifice." Every sinner is a rebel against God; a rebel can only surrender. The call to consecration in the Scriptures is not given to sinners. The apostle said, "I beseech you, therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice." There is a vast difference between the surrender of a conquered rebel and the glad, free-will consecration of a person who has the love of God in his heart.

A third reason why God does not sanctify us when He converts us is because, in some respects at least, the work wrought in justification and sanctification are antipodal -- are direct opposites. In justification there is a quickening and making alive process, while in sanctification there is a crucifixion, which means, put to death. In justification the spiritual and moral sensibilities are quickened and made alive unto God; in sanctification "our old man" -- our carnal sensibilities, are crucified and put to death. The one is putting on the new man; the other is putting off the old man. These two experiences deal with two different hemispheres of our nature; the one with sin as an act; the other with sin as a nature; the one with sins committed; the other with the sin principle inherited.

The very metaphors employed in the Scripture setting forth the experience of sanctification all indicate that it must take place subsequent to the new birth. Such terms as "circumcision," "married," "baptize" with the Holy Ghost, etc., all teach the second work of grace. In the nature of the case the child must be "born" before it can be "circumcised," "married," or "baptized;" this is just as true in the spiritual as in the natural realm.

There is absolutely no method of interpretation that can make the birth of the spirit and the baptism. with the Spirit identical. A birth is not a baptism; and a baptism is not a birth. They are two distinct and separate things, and mark different epochs of Christian experience. Concerning the gift of the Spirit, Jesus said, "Whom the world cannot receive " John 14:17. No man is eligible to the gift of the Spirit until after he is adopted into God's family, and so ceases to be of the world.

Occasionally we meet those who will admit that others have received sanctification as a second experience, but they themselves were more fortunate and were sanctified at the time of their conversion. This is frequently the attitude of ministers who have members in their churches who profess the second work of grace; they do not want to antagonize them, nor seem to be arrayed against the work of sanctification, but they do not believe in being a "stickler for terms;" they believe in being "liberal" and "broad" and "believe in sanctification;" but they themselves "got it all" when they were converted. Thus they hope to carry favor with the holiness people, and yet not give offense to any who might not believe in sanctification as a second work of grace. It is well to remember in this connection that God does not have two or three ways of converting people; that He has method and system, and is governed by law in the spiritual world just as in the natural world. It is, therefore, not a question of what he could do, but what He does do. While we admit that the manner of approach, and the subsequent manifestations of the experience vary, we would insist that so far as the work divinely inwrought in the soul at the time of conversion is concerned, it is precisely the same in every case. He does not forgive all the sins of one, and just forgive half the sins of another; or partially quicken one and fully quicken another; or partially adopt one and fully adopt another, etc. Exactly what He does for one in justification He does for all; no more and no less. With Him there can be no partiality; hence if one could truly lay claim to being sanctified at the time of conversion, all converted souls would have the same experience. But, as we have shown, such a claim and such teaching is wholly unscriptural, unreasonable and contrary to universal Christian experience.

It is noteworthy that the only people who can relate an experience of sanctification, and tell what it has done for them, and who are laboring to bring others into the experience of sanctification are the persons who themselves sought and obtained the experience subsequent to regeneration. The people who say they were sanctified at the time of their conversion never confess it, only when cornered in a second blessing holiness meeting, and then frequently become irritated and disturbed when others seek the experience who feel they did not have the good fortune of being sanctified at the time of their conversion. Why should it be thus with them if they themselves are in the experience?

"Christ also loved the church, and gave Himself for it; that He might sanctify and cleanse it." "Let us go forth, therefore, unto Him without the camp, bearing His reproach."

CONSECRATION

CONSECRATION

Consecration is not sanctification; but is the human side of sanctification. As the promise of sanctification is never given to sinners, so the call to consecration is never given to sinners. The attitude of a sinner being that of rebellion, he can simply surrender, and repent of his sins. But writing to believers, the Apostle Paul said, "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service." (Rom. 12:1.) Hence, we see that the call to consecration is to the "brethren;" the incentive to consecration, "the mercies of God;" and the object of consecration is, that they might be "transformed," and "prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."

Here is one reason why a person is not sanctified when converted: the conditions are entirely different. A sinner must do one thing in order to be converted, while a believer must do entirely a different thing in order to be wholly sanctified. Indeed, it would be utterly impossible for a sinner to present himself "a living sacrifice," seeing he is "dead in trespasses and sins;" not until after the soul has been quickened into newness of life can he present himself "a living sacrifice." The struggle of the sinner, in his surrender of himself to God, is to give up what is evil; the struggle of the believer in making his consecration, is to give up what is good:-- his time, his plans, his possessions, himself, his all, to God.

Nor is an objective consecration sufficient. By an objective consecration we mean a consecration or devotement to a certain work, as being consecrated to the work of a deaconess, or the work of a missionary, or the work of the ministry, There are multitudes of persons who are objectively consecrated -- consecrated to certain lines of religious work, -- who, nevertheless, are not wholly sanctified. The consecration necessary to entire sanctification is rather, what may be termed, a subjective consecration. The purpose of a subjective consecration is not, primarily, to do something for Him, but rather to let Him do something for us. In other words, a person must needs consecrate himself unconditionally to the Lord, for the express and specific purpose of letting the Lord completely purify and sanctify the soul; and not only so, but when such consecration is made, and all is upon the altar, there still remains one more step to be taken, to wit, the step of faith. Having fully met conditions, faith must take God at His word, and believe that He doeth it. We are "sanctified by faith." (Acts 26:18.)

Real consecration includes all we have, and all we ever will have; all we are, and all we ever will be; all we know and all we ever will know, for time and eternity; and is the pledge of an eternal "yes" to all the will of God. It is not sufficient for a person to say, "I have given up all I know," but must include all we do not know; all He may reveal in the future. Such person can never reconsecrate. They who habitually reconsecrate, are simply playing at consecration and have never yet learned the real meaning of consecration. But where a real death-bed consecration has been made, and the last point yielded to God, so that there is a glad "yes" down deep in the soul to all the will of God, faith becomes spontaneous, and the soul will realize that the altar sanctifieth the gift. (Matt. 23:19.)

The minister who says that sanctification simply means consecration, is either exceedingly ignorant on this subject, or else is wilfully mis-stating the case; he cannot consult any dictionary or lexicon of authority, but what he will find that the word sanctification has the two-fold meaning: consecration, or "setting apart," which is the human side; and purification, making free from sin, and making holy, which is the divine side. "Give yourself to God in all things, if you would have God give himself to you."-- Upham.

The language of real consecration is,

"I am willing

To receive what Thou givest,

To lack what Thou withholdest,

To relinquish what Thou takest,

To suffer what Thou inflictest,

To be what Thou requirest,

To do what Thou commandest.

Amen."

THE TWO-FOLD ASPECT OF THE GOSPEL

THE TWO-FOLD ASPECT OF THE GOSPEL

Seeing sin is two-fold -- both innate, inborn, as a corruption of the nature, and outward, as an act -- the provision of the Gospel in like manner is two-fold; there are

Two objects of divine love:--

"God so loved the world," John 3:16.

"Christ also loved the church." Eph. 5:25.

Two purposes of the atonement:--

"To save sinners." I. Tim. 1:15; Rom. 5:8.

Sanctify believers. Heb. 13:12; Eph. 5:26.

Two expressions of His will:--

Concerning sinners, -- "Not willing that any should perish." II. Pet. 3:9.

Concerning the Church, -- "This is the will of God, even your sanctification." I. Thess. 4:3.

Two prayers of Christ:--

For sinners, "Father, forgive them." Luke 23:34. For believers, "Sanctify them through Thy truth." John 17:9, 17.

Two Calls:-

Sinners to repentance. Matt. 9:13.

Believers "Unto holiness." I. Thess. 4:7.

Two Requirements:--

"If we confess our sins." I. John 1:9.

"If we walk in the light." I. John 1:7.

Two Promises:--

"To forgive us our sins." I. John 1:9.

"To cleanse us from all unrighteousness." I. John 1:9; Jer. 33:8.

Two Offices of the Spirit:--

"Born of the Spirit." John 3:5.

Baptized with the Spirit. Matt. 3:11.

Two Witnesses of the Spirit:--

"That we are the children of God." Rom. 8:16.

Sanctification, "whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us." Heb. 12:14, 15.

Two Experiences:--

"You hath He quickened." Eph. 2:1. A making alive of our moral nature.

"Our old man is crucified." Rom. 6:6. A putting to death of our carnal nature.

Two Rests:--

The first rest He gives on condition that we "come." Matt. 11:28.

The second rest we "find" after we have had His yoke upon us and learned of Him: soul rest.

The first is the rest from guilt and condemnation; the second is rest from fret and worry and unholy tempers: rest from inward conflict. Matt. 11:29; Heb. 4:3, 10.

Two Steps Of Faith --

"Justified by faith." Rom. 5:1.

"Sanctified by faith." Acts 26:18.

In view of the foregoing we can understand why John Wesley spoke of "the second blessing, properly so called;" and Mr. Charles Wesley spoke of it as "that second rest;" and Toplady taught us to sing,

"Be of sin the double cure;

Save from wrath, and make me pure."

While in justification a man obtains life, in Sanctification he receives the "life more abundant;" In justification he has "peace with God;" in Sanctification he obtains "the peace of God;" In Justification he obtains the love of God; in Sanctification his love is "made perfect;" In Justification he is made "free" from guilt and condemnation, because he is saved from sin as a practice; in Sanctification he obtains the "deed" to his freedom, with all the mortgages paid off, because he is cleansed and made free from sin as a principle.

It is this complete cleansing and deliverance from original or inbred sin by the baptism with the Holy Ghost and fire, that we refer to as the Second Crisis in Christian experience. Seeing it is not obtained at the time of conversion, nor by a gradual development or growth in grace, but by a definite act of consecration and faith as an instantaneous experience subsequent to regeneration, it invariably marks a distinct epoch, or second crisis, in the life of him who obtains it.

The Healing Waters

The Healing Waters

Ezek. 47:12

The contents of these 12 verses of the 47th chapter of Ezekiel are capable of differing interpretations. Those who would literalize must certainly acknowledge that there are some problems hard to solve. Adam Clarke offers four different possibilities. The one he seems to favor has much support from biblical scholars and from reason. This flowing stream of water is to be understood spiritually or typically. It shows the effusion of light and salvation by the outpouring of the Spirit of God under the gospel dispensation by which the knowledge of God spread throughout the earth. Therefore, this river that was small in its beginning became wider and deeper until the whole earth received blessing.

The stream had its source in the Temple which to believers in our time is the Church of Jesus Christ. It flows past the altar of sacrifice. It reaches into the desert areas of the world. There are the unbelieving and impenitent who will not receive the redeeming grace of God. Universal salvation is not promised, but abundant and eternal life is for whosoever believeth. There is forgiveness, cleansing, and wholeness for everyone.

There will be by-products of this mighty river of divine grace. By the river on this side and on that side shall grow all trees for food. And the fruit shall be for meat and the leaf thereof for medicine.

Where the healing waters flow, there is health and light. There is peace, hope, and love. There is life instead of death.

Love Is Reciprocal

Love Is Reciprocal

Hos. 14:4

As God had taken His chosen people to himself, in like manner Hosea had in love taken Gomer into the exclusive covenant of marriage. As the awareness of the infidelity of his wife grew upon him, his love for her was tinged with unspeakable grief. But that love mingled with sadness never turned to bitterness and hatred. It was constant love that would not consent to give the unfaithful wife up to her adulterous lovers.

Gomer, in degradation, was taken to the slave market to be sold to the highest bidder, The husband of her youth was among those who were present for the auction. Hosea must have seen something familiar and something yet to love beneath the disheveled appearance of the woman offered for sale. In the hope and faith that restoration to virtue and beauty was possible, the lawful husband bought Gomer for what amounted to the price of a slave. After a proper time of purification, the prophet took his erring wife back to share his life and love forever.

Since God is holy, He could not condone sin. Nevertheless, He is the God of steadfast love. Therefore, to the sinning nation He would show mercy. From His heart overflowing with love came the grief-laden lament, "How shall I give thee up, Ephraim?" (11:8); and later Came the promise, "I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely."

Hosea is the prophet of grace. He proclaimed that God in holy love offers pardon to every penitent sinner.

The Wise Shall Understand

"The Wise Shall Understand"

Dan. 12:10

Daniel was the most farseeing of all the prophets. It is clear that he saw visions of things to come to pass in the time of the end. These things have been given of God for a purpose.

God has a design that is according to His sovereign will and His inscrutable wisdom. Many of those who have sought to literalize and specify times and seasons have been proven wrong. Those who have confessed their lack of knowledge, as well as those who have professed to know, will have complete understanding when we know as we are known.

Daniel said, "I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be the end of these things? And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end.... Blessed is he that waiteth" (vv. 8-9, 12).

But the purpose of God for those whom He has chosen is clear: beyond a doubt. "Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried." God is preparing a people for himself who shall glorify Him in this life and enjoy His presence and fellowship forever. This is God's eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus.

God delights in a people who have proved themselves in the days of testing. Those who are Christ's know that in the furnace of fire there is grace to overcome. The trial develops strength of character and prepares for a fruitful ministry of encouragement to others. "The wise shall understand."

Lesson Three of the Quarter: Opposition Overcome

 Today's lesson comes from Ezra 4: 1-7; 23, 24; 5: 1, 2. The Israelites had returned to their homeland. After settling in their villages, they set up the altar on the same foundation where the original altar had been. The next step was to begin working on the temple. The foundation was laid in the second month of the second year after their arrival. Things seemed to be going well and the people looked forward to a time when they would have a place to worship. 

There will be several lessons for us today as we study what occurred to the returning Israelites. When individuals take their stand for truth, purity, and separation from the world, they will often experience opposition. This is a key theme in today's lesson. When opposition came, the Jews initially gave up the project of rebuilding the temple, and turned to meeting their own material interest. This is a warning against the dangers of materialism. We will see that construction resumed when God sent His prophets, and the people responded to their message. Success in the work of God comes when we hear and obey His word.

The first section is "Fundamental Purity." vv. 1-3 In verse 1, we learn that the offer to help build the temple came from the "adversaries of Judah and Benjamin." They were pretending to be believers in the Lord, but they were worshippers of a multitude of gods. These Samaritans declared that they had much in common with the Jews. "We are immigrants just like you." However, they knew nothing of the covenant relationship with God as His chosen people. Zerubbabel was a leader with some experience and he said, "Ye have nothing to do with us." "We ourselves together will build unto the LORD God of Israel." God is the God of Israel, not of the compromising Samaritans. 

These are the summary points of the first section:

1. There is a danger involved if the church unites with unbelievers to accomplish God's work. 

2. It is important to listen to godly leadership when problems arise.

3. Sometimes what sounds like a good idea is really Satan's plan to destroy God's work and the spiritual effectiveness of the church.

The second section is "Frustrated Purpose." vv. 4, 5 Having been unsuccessful in attempting to infiltrate the ranks of the Jews, the adversaries "weakened the hands of the people of Judah." They began to undermine the morale of the workers. They may have destroyed their crops, broke into their homes or threatened the Jews with loss of their lives or family members. 

However, the Samaritans did not stop there. They "hired counsellors against them, to frustrate their purpose." Cyrus had made the decree for the Jews to build the temple. The counselors were sent to the Persian rulers to influence them against the Jews. Propaganda was being spread by the Samaritans to produce confusion, misdirection, and disunity. 

These are the summary points of this section:

1. The devil and carnal people like to resist spiritual leaders when they make a stand.

2. When the people of God take steps to worship the LORD, they should expect opposition.

3. Beware of pessimists who will try to discourage you.

The third section is "Fraudulent Politics." vv. 6-24 The opposition wrote letters addressed to Ahasuerus and Artaxerxes to stop the construction of the city walls and foundations. Verses 6-23 reveal how the Jews were still opposed, even after the temple was completed in 516 B.C. The charges were false accusations and misrepresented the facts. The king wrote a letter requiring an immediate halt to the construction of the city. 

When Rehum and Shimshai heard the content of king Artaxerxes' letter, they immediately went to Jerusalem and "by force and power," they caused the work to cease. As a result, the enthusiasm of the Jews began to wane. Their hopes and vision grew dim.  It appeared that evil had prevailed. Jews turned to building their own homes, and settling down in the land.

These are the summary points of this section:

1. There will be difficulties when building the kingdom of God.

2. We are to look to the LORD for help and strength.

3. Never allow discouragement to steal your desire to do God's work.

The fourth section is "Faithful Prophets." 5: 1, 2 Thank God for His prophets that speak truth. God raised up two prophets, Haggai and Zechariah, to get the people back to work. Haggai told of God's blessings if the people would obey. Zechariah's messages proclaimed a glorious future for Israel. The people responded and threw off their lethargy and indifference. The prophets, the prince Zerubbabel, the priest, Joshua, and the people united to finish the work in four years. Solomon's temple was destroyed in 586B.C. and 70 years later, in 516B.C., the new temple was completed. 

These are the summary points of this section:

1. God's messengers may bring a message of rebuke or blessings. 

2. In the Old Testament, blessings were conditioned on obedience.

3. God's plans will never be thwarted because He is Sovereign over all the earth.

The Golden Text is: "We ourselves together will build unto the LORTD God of Israel." (Ezra 4: 3) Zerrubbabel refused the help of the Samaritans. Paul said, "a little leaven leaveneth the whole loaf." The work of God does not need to compromise with the world to build the kingdom of God. Too many today bring in the world's methods to the church. That is friendship with the world which means enmity (opposed) to God. Let us be ever faithful not to compromise with the world and its ways.

Next week, "The Temple Completed." Ezra 6: 2-15

Greatly Beloved

A Man Greatly Beloved

Dan. 10:18-19

Daniel had been under a heavy burden for three full weeks. A heavenly messenger now addressed him as a man greatly beloved. Peace and strength flowed into his entire being.

Daniel had been given extraordinary wisdom. One king after another acclaimed his superiority, but he knew his dependence was upon God. He was preferred among the presidents and the princes because an excellent spirit was found in him.

Daniel was found faithful in all his duties. When those jealous officers of King Darius sought occasion to destroy him, the only complaint they could find against him was concerning his God.

Daniel did not gain the confidence of kings and the acknowledgment of faithfulness by his foes by clever evasions of the truth. He told King Nebuchadnezzar that the interpretation of his dream was what he could wish for his enemies. "They shall drive thee from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field, and they shall make thee to eat grass as oxen, and they shall wet thee with the dew of heaven.... till thou know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men" (4:25). He did not hesitate to say to Belshazzar, "Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting. Thy kingdom is divided, and given to the Medes and Persians" (5:27-28).

Men of wisdom and humility whose only fault is concerning the law of their God, men of impeccable integrity, are still men greatly beloved.

Trusting God's Past

"As He Did Aforetime"

Dan. 6:10

Daniel was not praying to his God in defiance of the edict of the king. Rather, he was doing what he had done with consistent regularity. Opening his window toward Jerusalem and bowing on his knees was proof that his faith was in the God of Israel.

He was not frantically praying in a crisis. He did not ask God to do to his enemies what they had plotted to do to him. He did not even ask God to deliver him from the den of lions. He was simply keeping up his daily devotions. If men have practiced prayer daily, it is a natural pattern of life. Grace for the trial is ministered of God to those who call in the moment of stress. The constant relation to the Heavenly Father guarantees all-sufficient grace in time of need.

Because Daniel was prayed up to date, he faced the ordeal of the lions' den calmly. He knew God was faithful. No matter what the ravenous beasts might do to him, it was well with his soul. Because this true and faithful servant of the Most High God had so consistently practiced the presence of God, He was with him in the lions' den. Daniel did not gleefully rejoice when those who planned his ruin were the ones who provided a feast for the hungry lions. His reward came when King Darius said, "I make a decree, That in every dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel" (v. 26).

Faith Tried By Fire

Faith Tried by Fire

Dan. 3:16-18

Faith that depends upon the outcome of any contingency is mere speculation. True faith is unshaken confidence in God no matter what happens in the course of human events. The testimony to their faith by Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego is in the words "But if not." They were saying, "No matter what the outcome of this ordeal by fire, we believe God."

Such unconditional belief in God never misses the reward. This illustrious trio were cast bound into a fire so hot it destroyed those who threw them in. The fire only burned the bonds. The haughty, furious king beheld a sight which brought him to his feet in astonishment, saying, "Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire?" Receiving an affirmative answer, he said, "Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God." To the men in the furnace the king called, "Ye servants of the most high God, come forth" (vv. 24-26). Before, he was demanding they do homage to the golden image he had set up. All the officials and advisers to the king saw these men upon whom the fire had no power.

Now the king blessed God who delivered his servants; and he made a decree of condemnation upon anyone who should speak against the God of the Hebrews, "because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort" (v. 29). And the king promoted them.

Self Discipline Pays Dividends

Self-discipline Pays Dividends

Dan. 1:8

Daniel and his three companions were far removed from parents and teachers who had instructed them in the faith and ethics of the Hebrews. They had been chosen to stand in the king's palace and to learn his language and to do his bidding. They could lose his favor and their heads. They were offered the delicacies that came from the king's table. How could temptation to forget their early training, accept their fate, and make the most of it have been stronger? "But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank." There can be no doubt that his fellow captives held to the same convictions. It was a firm decision not to compromise.

It is possible for parents of our day to build into the character of their offspring some ideals, some steadfastness of purpose that will help them to stand for right and for the faith of their fathers. But the fathers and mothers must themselves be godly examples. Smoking, tippling, trifling-in-sex, lying, cheating, Sabbath-breaking parents do not rear their posterity to be loyal to biblical standards of conduct.

The firm but courteous refusal of Daniel and his compatriots was honored. They stood before the king fairer and fatter than all their fellows. Self-discipline still brings health, wisdom, and character; also, the confidence of men and the blessing of God.

Ye Shall Be Clean

"Ye Shall Be Clean"

Ezek. 36:25-27

Here is the greatest promise in the Book of Ezekiel. The prophet is speaking "directly of the cleansing of those who would return to the land that had been promised to their fathers. They were to be cleansed from their filthiness and their idols.

But the complete fulfillment of this great prophecy came only when Messiah came. It is the promise of a double cure for sin.

A new heart is promised. The stony heart defiled by sin was to be taken away and a new heart given. Ezekiel prophesied the new birth, of which Jesus spoke to Nicodemus, saying "Ye must be born again" (John 3:7). Paul wrote, "If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new" (2 Cor. 5:17).

A new spirit within is also promised. It is cleansing of the polluted nature of man. Adam Clarke comments, "It is the truly cleansing water; the influences of the Holy Spirit typified by water; whose property is to cleanse, whiten, purify, refresh, render healthy and fruitful." With the cleansing comes the new spirit. "I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them." Again quoting Adam Clarke, "Here is the salvation that is the birthright of every Christian believer: the complete destruction of all sin in the soul, and the complete renewal of the heart; no sin having any place within, and no unrighteousness having and place without. '"

The Son of Man

Son of Man

Ezek. 2:1-2

When God addressed Ezekiel, He called him "Son of man." His name means "one whom God sustains," an appropriate designation for one whose message was directed to the "rebellious house of Israel." God told him that their faces were like flint but that He would make his face as adamant. Ezekiel was called to preach whether they would hear or forbear.

Ezekiel testified, "The heavens were opened, and I saw visions of God" (1:1). If he had not had a personal encounter with God, he could only speak as a man to other men. But Ezekiel could say, "Thus saith the Lord."

Ezekiel also said, "The spirit entered into me when he spake unto me, and set me upon my feet, that I heard him that spake unto me." He was full of divine energy. In the power of the Spirit, he spoke with authority.

God said also to Ezekiel, "Eat this roll, and go speak unto the house of Israel." The prophet responded, "Then did I eat it" (3:1, 3). He who speaks the word must digest it, assimilate it, and live it.

Ezekiel went to the captives. "I sat where they sat" (3:15). He identified himself with the people to whom he was sent. He listened in silence. He heard their confession and complaints. He assessed their attitudes. If the teachers and preachers today know firsthand the sins, the sorrows, the commitments, and the protests of those to whom they minister, their message will be relevant.

The Spirit entered into the prophet, saying, "Go, shut thyself within thine house" (3:24). There, alone, he heard God speak. Therefore he had a message from God.

Lesson Two of the Quarter: The Foundation Laid

 Today's lesson comes from Ezra 3: 1-13. The first step the Jews took in regard to the restoration of the spiritual life of the nation was to set up the altar for the sacrifices and offerings. The altar was the place where atonement was made, and man could come before God. It is symbolic of the first work of grace. The next step was to begin construction of the temple. A good foundation is essential to both a building and for spiritual life. After an individual is saved, he must begin constructing a consistent spiritual life. 

When the people, led by Zerubbabel, arrived in the homeland, they settled into their homes and villages. They looked forward to the renewal of worship at the temple site. The people were unified in their purpose. "The people gathered themselves together as one man to Jerusalem."

The first section is "The Altar and Offerings." vv. 1-6 The seventh month was the most sacred month of the Jewish year. The following events took place during the seventh month:

1. Feast of Trumpets (1st day of the month): the altar was set up and first offerings were made.

2. Day of Atonement (10th day of the month): day of forgiveness.

3. Feast of Tabernacles (15th day of the month (15th day of the month): lasted eight days remembering the time of living in the wilderness. 

Joshua and Zerubbabel directed that the altar be set upon its bases. This meant that the altar was to be set up on the original porch. They were not seeking a new or innovative form of worship. After the altar was set up, they immediately "offered burnt offerings thereon unto the LORD." Another reason the leaders were motivated to set up the altar was that the Jewish people sought the divine protection from the LORD. The Jews were surrounded and they sought God's favor and guidance.

The summary points of the section:

1. Fear and adverse circumstances should encourage people to seek God.

2. Just like offerings were offered both in the morning and evening, we should have a consistent devotional life.

3. We should never cling to the world's system of thinking. 

The second section is "Men and Materials." vv. 7-9 From the money given for the construction of the temple, it was used for the masons and carpenters to begin obtaining the building material that would be needed. The actual construction was begun in the second month of the second year. This would have followed the celebration of the Passover in the first month. The leaders were all eager to begin the work. To avoid confusion and wasted effort, they "appointed the Levites, from twenty years old and upward, to set forward the work." The Levites had originally been assigned the care of the sanctuary (Numbers 1:50). King David had employed the Levites at twenty years of age. The Levites would "set forward the workman in the house of God," those who actually performed the labor of construction. 

The summary points for this section:

1. You need to clear the rubble out of the way before you begin to serve God.

2. The work of the LORD needs to be supervised by those in authority to avoid confusion and waste.

The third section is "Construction Begun." vv. 10-13 After the foundation was laid, the people began to praise the Lord with trumpets and cymbals. Music was an important part of the worship. Some people remembered the glory of Solomon's temple and the new one did not compare in that it lacked costly adornment. Some people shouted for joy and others wept in sorrow. The new temple while larger, did not have the same splendor. The shouts of joy prevailed over the noise of weeping. 

The summary points for this section:

1. Music is a part of worship.

2. Don't miss today's blessings because of the past.

3. True religion is more than ornate buildings.

The Golden Text is: "For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ." (1 Cor. 3:11) Jesus Christ is our foundation and corner stone. Everything we do must be built on Him. No true church will have any other foundation than Jesus Christ. He is the foundation on which we can depend. He will never fail us.

Points to ponder:

1. What is more important, the house of worship or the worship in the house of God?

2. Is God different in our generation?

3. How much did the sin of the people (that led to captivity) cost the the following generation?

Next week: "Opposition Overcome." (Ezra 4: 1-7; 23,24; 5:1).

The Messiah Is Come

Messiah Is Come

Isa. 61:1

Of whom does the prophet speak? Jesus gives the answer in Luke 4:21-22: "This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears. And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth."

It was the Lord God who had sent Him. And the Spirit was upon Him. The divine attestation to His Sonship and His anointing had come unmistakably at His baptism by John. The Holy Spirit had descended upon Him in bodily shape like a dove, and a voice from heaven said, "Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased" (Luke 3:22). He had also passed the crucial test in the fierce conflict with Satan in the wilderness. Now in supreme confidence He could say, "The Lord God hath anointed me," which was equivalent to saying, I am the Messiah, the Christ, sent from God.

Jesus came to fulfill a mission. He was the Savior, the answer to man's universal cry, Isaiah gave a preview in outline of what the ministry of the Messiah would be.

He did preach the gospel to the poor. He set the example for the Church to follow in all ages. Her mission is to the needy, the brokenhearted, the imprisoned, the enslaved. Jesus and those He chooses are to proclaim that the year of jubilee has come. It is the day of grace, the time of God's favor. This is the era of God's acceptance of unworthy men. The year of the redeemed has come.

The Gospel Prophet

The Gospel According to Isaiah

Isa. 55:1

Isaiah has been called the gospel prophet. It is true that in his message he anticipated the Good News of the New Testament. In the 55th chapter he proclaims the principles of the evangelical faith. It is a universal invitation. It is without money and without price.

In describing the Suffering Servant and what He provided by His death on the Cross, the prophet said, "He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed" (53:5). A well-known scholar has said, "The profoundest remarks upon the meaning of Calvary are not to be found in the New Testament." Truly they are in the 53rd chapter of Isaiah.

Another great evangelical truth is announced in our text. "Come ye to the waters.., come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk." In Isaiah's prophecy water is always a symbol of God's presence. His invitation is to come and drink of that life-giving stream of salvation. A drink from this fountain that never runs dry will bring new life and complete cleansing of the sin-filled heart of man.

Milk is for nourishment. The newborn grow thereby. They come to maturity in Christlikeness.

Wine is to gladden the spirit of man. The gospel helps him carry his cross with a smile.

The gospel preached by Isaiah was also evangelistic. He called upon those who heard, to seek the Lord now. Those who respond receive mercy and abundant pardon.

The gospel of Isaiah is both evangelical and evangelistic.

The Secret of Peace and Power

The Secret of Peace and Power

Isa. 48:18

At Sinai God began to make the chosen family into a nation. He said, "Keep my covenant, then ye shall be a [special] treasure unto me above all people." The people answered, "All that the Lord hath spoken we will do" (Exod. 19:5, 8). God spoke the terms of the covenant -- the Ten Commandments.

In the text for today Isaiah gives a reminder of the covenant. Through nearly six centuries Israel had transgressed times without number. These solemn words of the prophet recall the warning of Moses. He said, "If thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments... [he] will set thee on high above all nations of the earth... But... if thou wilt not hearken unto... his commandments... curses shall come upon thee" (Deut. 28:1, 15).

Here then is warning of judgment as well as a reminder of the covenant.

When Abraham Lincoln was on his way to Washington for his first inauguration, he paused in Trenton, N.J., to make an address. His subject was "Almost a Chosen Nation." The United States of America and any other nation that will accept the Ten Commandments can be almost a chosen nation. The peril of any country is the enemy within. Obedience to God's commandments promises peace like a river and righteousness like the waves of the sea.

This word of the prophet is a lament. "O that thou hadst." It is like Jesus' lament over Jerusalem: "If thou hadst known ... the things which belong unto thy peace!" (Luke 19:42).

The Vindication of the Righteous

The Vindication of the Righteous

Isa. 54:17

The righteous servant of God is indestructible. His vindication by a holy God is as certain as the chastisement of the transgressor. Those who devise evil against him will either be turned to confusion or changed into defenders.

This does not mean that the righteous man is never misunderstood or that he will never be outnumbered and defeated. Jesus said, "The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you" (John 15:20). The righteous servant of God is sure to clash swords with evildoers in an ungodly society. He cannot escape the battle, and in the moment of conflict he may suffer defeat and humiliation. Nevertheless, in the final showdown, right will triumph over wrong. The righteous man takes more comfort in his defeat than he would in sharing the temporary victory of 'wrongdoers. The cause for which he gave his life will win the decision at the bar of the infallible Judge.

Jesus Christ, the personification of truth and goodness, died at the hands of evil accusers and a cringing coward, but the grave could not keep its prey. He arose from the dead. He will pronounce righteous judgment: "Depart from me," and "Come, ye blessed of my Father" (Matt. 25:41, 34).

God has promised to deliver the righteous from the strife of tongues. They may not always exercise perfect judgment, and they may err in practice; but they live with a clear conscience, which in itself is sweet consolation. Their defense is sure.

Strength Increased

Strength Increased

Isa. 40:31

The greatness of God is beyond human understanding. The mind of man is incapable of spanning eternity. The omnipotence of God is beyond the comprehension of the finite mind. Man has limited creativity. God is Creator of earth and all that lives upon it. This is the work of God's fingers, and by His will all is kept in perfect balance. Without His supervision and support there would be total chaos.

This God, infinite in wisdom, eternal inbeing, almighty in power, has knowledge and love of all the more than 4 billion persons who live on this planet. There is no searching of His understanding.

He understands when all others misunderstand. He knows our weakness, our failure, our burden, yea, all our need. He passes over our mistakes and pardons our sins. He never grows tired nor does He sleep. His ears are never closed to our call. His loving heart is always inclined to compassion, mercy, and love.

God is never weary with our coming to Him with our problems. He wants His children to be men in understanding, but He delights to have them depend on Him. "He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength" (v. 29).

The secret of receiving His strength is in waiting upon the Lord, waiting in full readiness to obey His voice when He speaks. All who wait will have strength to "mount up with wings as eagles"; to "run, and not be weary"; to "walk, and not faint."

"Comfort Ye My People"

"Comfort Ye My People"

Isa. 40:1

The first section of the Book of Isaiah is primarily a message of judgment with promises of salvation. The second section is a message of comfort with words of warning.

Here this man of far vision is promising a better day for God's covenant people. Their warfare would be accomplished and their iniquity pardoned. That they had received of the Lord's hand double for all their sins is illustrated by an ancient custom among debtors and creditors. One caught with debts too many and too great for him to pay, might post a list of his obligations. This was in effect a plea for mercy. His creditor or a benevolent friend might see his plight. He could fold the sheet on which the list was written, thus covering the debts, and sign a promise to pay all. Isaiah was proclaiming pardon for the sins of a penitent people. This is what God has done for all contrite, believing sinners. "Jesus paid it all."

Isaiah also proclaimed comfort by his declaration that "the word of our God shall stand for ever" (v. 8). There is no fickleness or caprice with God. He is not like the grass that withers or the flower that fades.

Again the prophet speaks comfort: "He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young" (v. 11). The Almighty Creator is at the same time the tender, compassionate Shepherd. He leads and feeds the flock.

Lesson One of the Quarter: The Degree to Return

 Today's lesson comes from Ezra 1:1-2:1. This quarter we will look at the period of Jewish history when they return from exile and their reestablishment in the land of Palestine. The rulers of Persia during this time included men from Cyrus through Darius II.  Prophets included Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Principal individuals included Zerubbabel, Esther, Ezra and Nehemiah. The first six chapters of Ezra record the return of the exiles under the leadership of Zerubbabel.  These Jews laid the foundation of the temple, and then were halted by opposition. The prophets, Haggai and Zechariah, urged them to resume the work. The temple was finally completed in 516. 

God had allowed the ruler of Babylon to sweep into Judea, and destroy Jerusalem and the temple. The survivors were taken away captive to Babylon. Judah would be desolate or 70 years as prophesied by Jeremiah (Jeremiah 25: 8-11). The last two verses of 2 Chronicles are the same as the first two and a half verses of Ezra. We are informed that the Babylonian captivity has come to an end and the Jews were to be retuning to their homeland. 

The first section is "Decree Proclaimed." vv. 1-4 Cyrus was the leader of the Medo-Persian forces which defeated Babylon. Verse 1 contains a statement regarding the Providence of God that should provide comfort to all believers no matter what their circumstances. "The LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia." Cyrus was moved to issue a proclamation that all who desired to could return to Jerusalem and work on building the house of the LORD God of Israel. The people were not required to return. For many, they had grown up in a foreign land and no doubt were comfortable in a heathen land. They chose to stay. Cyrus even acknowledged that God "hath given me all the kingdoms of the earth."  Further, Cyrus decreed that God "hath charged me to build him a house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah." 

Some important points about this first section:

1. God is sovereign in the events of history.

2. "The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD." (Proverbs 21:1)

3. You can become comfortable living in a sinful place.

4. Cyrus' decree is like the gospel. Those bound in captivity can go free because Jesus has paid for their sins. 

5. While there may appear to be a degree of uncertainty in moving into the unknown, when God is present, it will be the best path to follow.

The second section is "Provisions Provided." vv. 5-11 In this portion of the lesson, we see that God was continuing to Providentially work to return the Jews to their homeland. After stirring Cyrus to make his degree, God now stirs the hearts of the people to go and build up Jerusalem and the temple. The returning Jews were encouraged by the gifts of gold, goods, cattle and other valuables, along with a freewill offering. In addition, Cyrus brought forth the vessels that Nebuchadnezzar had taken from Jerusalem when the Jews were taken into captivity. God had preserved the articles while in Babylon and now they were being returned just as Jeremiah prophezied in Jeremiah 27:22. The articles of gold and silver numbered five thousand four hundred.

Some important points about this section:

1. Real faith works.

2. God stirs up not just leaders, but also His people when He wants.

3. God will provide the provisions when it is time to begin His work. 

4. God will preserve His own, even while in the hands of a heathen people.

The third section is "Journey Begun." 2:1 The first verse of this chapter is an introduction to the list of those who returned under the leadership of Zerubbabel. The number returning was about 50,000. While Judah was no longer considered a nation, it was now seen as a province in the Persian Empire (Ezra 5:8). The returning people would be subject to the Persian rulers and their laws. They would live "unto his own city." This meant that they would go to the place in which they had previously dwelt.

The important points in this section are:

1. When people repeatedly disobey God and His laws, they will experience degradation.

2. Rebellion leads to a loss of privilege.

3. God's mercy still prevails and His will shall be manifested in His timing.

The Golden Text is "Then rose up...all them whose spirit God had raised, to go up to build the house of the LORD which is in Jerusalem." (Ezra 1:5) In the same way that the Spirit of God moved upon the people to return to their homeland, we are moved as believers to travel to our heavenly homeland. While we may sometimes face challenges and struggles along the way, the Captain of our Salvation walks by our sides and assures us of final victory.

Next week: "The Foundation Land." Ezra 3:1-3, 8-13.

The Way of Holiness

The Way of Holiness

Isa. 35:8

In the Book of Isaiah is found some of the most inspiring and beautiful poetry that has ever been written. One of his greatest poems is the 35th chapter. In it Isaiah sees the fulfillment of the promises made to the patriarchs, God's people dwelling in peaceful habitations in a land prosperous and productive. His vision is far more glorious than anything history records in that restoration.

Christ ushered in an era in which the eyes of the blind were opened, the ears of the deaf were unstopped, the lame leaped, and the tongue of the dumb sang. In His continuing kingdom on earth He cast up an highway over which His sanctified people would journey to the land of pure delight.

Pilgrims enter this higher way of holiness by making a full and final consecration of all they have and are to the fulfillment of God's perfect will in them. They pursue the way with a dependable sense of direction. They are not lured to the byways and detours by the siren song of worldly pleasure. They have blessed assurance of protection from contamination by the unclean and from ravenous beasts that lurk along the way.

Those who travel this way of holiness are under compulsion of a mission. There is a vast, howling wilderness of sin to subdue. There is a barren desert to reclaim from the power of evil. Christ can and will make all things new. These pilgrims will come to their eternal home with songs of everlasting joy upon their heads. They shall be home with the Lord forever.