What does the gospel message say about repentance? Did
Jesus remove the need to repent? Here is what the Scriptures have to say about repentace:
"In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!" Matthew 3:1-2
The gospel of the kingdom: Repent and believe.
"The law and the prophets were until John. Since that time the kingdom of God has been preached, and everyone is pressing into it. Luke 16:16
John the Baptist preached the gospel.
"Now after John was put in prison, Jesus came to Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel." Mark 1:14-15
Then he said to the multitudes that came out to be baptized by him, "Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance, and do not begin to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our father.' For I say to you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones. And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees. Therefore every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire." Luke 3:7-9
"I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance. Luke 5:32
"There were present at that season some who told Him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. And Jesus answered and said to them, "Do you suppose that these Galileans were worse sinners than all other Galileans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. Or those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them, do you think that they were worse sinners than all other men who dwelt in Jerusalem? I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish." Luke 13:1-5
How far have we gotten from the Gospel?
"I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance. Luke 15:7
Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents. Luke 15:10
"Then He said to them, "Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. Luke 24:46-47
Repentance of sins and remission of sins, not just remission of sins, should be preached in His name to all nations.
"Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" Then Peter said to them, "Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call." Acts 2:37-39
"To you first, God, having raised up His Servant Jesus, sent Him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from your iniquities. Acts 3:25
"But Peter said to him, "Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money! You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity." Acts 8:20-23
"Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead." Acts 17:30-31
"Therefore, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, but declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance. Acts 26:19-20
"Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences. 2 Corinthians 5:9-11
"Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent. Revelation 2:4-5
"But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality. Thus you also have those who hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. Repent, or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth. Revelation 2:14-16
More repentance for the Christian too.
"As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. Revelation 3:19
More repentance for the Christian-- the immoral Christian, in fact.
"But the rest of mankind, who were not killed by these plagues, did not repent of the works of their hands, that they should not worship demons, and idols of gold, silver, brass, stone, and wood, which can neither see nor hear nor walk. And they did not repent of their murders or their sorceries or their sexual immorality or their thefts. Revelation 9:20-21
"And men were scorched with great heat, and they blasphemed the name of God who has power over these plagues; and they did not repent and give Him glory. Then the fifth angel poured out his bowl on the throne of the beast, and his kingdom became full of darkness; and they gnawed their tongues because of the pain. They blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and did not repent of their deeds. Revelation 16:9-11
Without repentance the end result is death and eternal consequence. The need for repentance did not end at the cross. Repentance IS and MUST be a part of the gospel message.
6.30.2015
5.31.2015
Declarations of An Overcomer
Here are some more truths to realize in your life. Speaking biblical truths confesses and proclaims God's truth in your life, helps you to stay synced with that truth, then helps you renew your mind and get in position against the devil. If you do not understand a particular truth, don't be afraid to seek to understand what it means!
I am the Body of Christ. My body is the house of God. God lives in me and I belong to Him. I've been bought with the price of the blood of Jesus, so I glorify God in my body and in my spirit - 1 Corinthians 6:15-19; 2 Corinthians 6:16, 3:16.
Satan has no power over me. I have been delivered from the power of darkness and translated into the Kingdom of God's dear Son - Colossians 1:13.
Therefore sin has no power over me - Romans 6:14.
I separate myself from every unclean thing - 2 Corinthians 6:17.
I submit myself to God. I resist the devil and he flees from me - James 4:7.
I give no place or no opportunity to the devil - Ephesians 4:27.
I choose the fear of the Lord, which is to hate evil, pride, arrogance, the evil way, and the disobedient mouth - Proverbs 8:13.
I consider Jesus and His presence in me - Hebrews 12:3.
I love God more than anything this world offers - Mark 12:30.
I present my body as a living sacrifice to God - holy, devoted, and consecrated to please Him, which is a part of my spiritual worship to Him. I am not conformed to this world's way of thinking, but I am continually being transformed by the renewing of my mind to His Word so that I can prove what is the good, the acceptable, and the perfect will of God in my life - Romans 12:1,2.
I have the mind of Christ - 1 Corinthians 2:16.
Jesus said, "The prince of the world comes, but he has nothing in Me." Just like Jesus, I decree that Satan has nothing in me - John 14:30.
I cast down imaginations and every thought that tries to exalt itself against the knowledge of God. I bring my thoughts into captivity to the obedience of Christ and His Word - having a ready mind to revenge all disobedience - 2 Corinthians 10:4,5.
I think on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. If there be any virtue or praise, I think on these things - Philippians 4:8.
In righteousness I am established. I am far from oppression. I do not fear. I am far from terror. It will not come near me - Isaiah 54:14.
Thy Word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against thee - Psalm 119:11.
If I sin, You said if I confess and repent of my sin, You are faithful and just to forgive me of it and to cleanse me from all unrighteousness - 1 John 1:9.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper and every tongue that rises against me is condemned or shown to be wrong and stopped. This is the heritage God has given me as a servant of the Lord and my righteousness is of Him - Isaiah 54:17.
Like Jesus, I love righteousness and I hate iniquity; therefore God anoints me with the oil of gladness - Hebrews 1:9.
Lord, You said there is no temptation that has come to me or that can come to me that is not common to man, nothing that is beyond human resistance. You are faithful to Your Word and to Your love for me, and You will not allow me to be tempted beyond my strength to resist and You will provide a way out or a way of escape so I will be strong against it - 1 Corinthians 10:13.
I am of God and I have overcome every anti-Christ spirit because greater is He who is in me than he who is in the world - 1 John 4:4.
This is the victory that causes me to overcome in this world - my faith in Jesus and in His Word - 1 John 5:4,5.
I live and walk by faith and not by sight or feelings - 2 Corinthians 5:7.
I live by every Word that proceeds from the mouth of God - Matthew 4:4.
I let the Word of Christ dwell in me richly in all wisdom - Colossians 3:16.
The spirit of faith is, I believe and therefore I speak - 2 Corinthians 4:13.
I overcome the devil by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of my testimony, not loving my life unto the death - Revelation 12:11.
I shall live and not die to declare the works of the Lord in this earth - Psalm 118:17.
All things are working together for good in my life because I love God and I am called according to His purpose - Romans 8:28.
Thanks be to God who gives me the victory through my Lord Jesus Christ. He always causes me to triumph - 1 Corinthians 15:57; 2 Corinthians 2:14.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me - Philippians 4:13.
Amen!
Remember, declarations are powerful, but declarations are not simply spoken. Rather, a declaration is made consciously in agreement within the heart. From your heart, proclaim the truth out loud, boldly, and often!
I am the Body of Christ. My body is the house of God. God lives in me and I belong to Him. I've been bought with the price of the blood of Jesus, so I glorify God in my body and in my spirit - 1 Corinthians 6:15-19; 2 Corinthians 6:16, 3:16.
Satan has no power over me. I have been delivered from the power of darkness and translated into the Kingdom of God's dear Son - Colossians 1:13.
Therefore sin has no power over me - Romans 6:14.
I separate myself from every unclean thing - 2 Corinthians 6:17.
I submit myself to God. I resist the devil and he flees from me - James 4:7.
I give no place or no opportunity to the devil - Ephesians 4:27.
I choose the fear of the Lord, which is to hate evil, pride, arrogance, the evil way, and the disobedient mouth - Proverbs 8:13.
I consider Jesus and His presence in me - Hebrews 12:3.
I love God more than anything this world offers - Mark 12:30.
I present my body as a living sacrifice to God - holy, devoted, and consecrated to please Him, which is a part of my spiritual worship to Him. I am not conformed to this world's way of thinking, but I am continually being transformed by the renewing of my mind to His Word so that I can prove what is the good, the acceptable, and the perfect will of God in my life - Romans 12:1,2.
I have the mind of Christ - 1 Corinthians 2:16.
Jesus said, "The prince of the world comes, but he has nothing in Me." Just like Jesus, I decree that Satan has nothing in me - John 14:30.
I cast down imaginations and every thought that tries to exalt itself against the knowledge of God. I bring my thoughts into captivity to the obedience of Christ and His Word - having a ready mind to revenge all disobedience - 2 Corinthians 10:4,5.
I think on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. If there be any virtue or praise, I think on these things - Philippians 4:8.
In righteousness I am established. I am far from oppression. I do not fear. I am far from terror. It will not come near me - Isaiah 54:14.
Thy Word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against thee - Psalm 119:11.
If I sin, You said if I confess and repent of my sin, You are faithful and just to forgive me of it and to cleanse me from all unrighteousness - 1 John 1:9.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper and every tongue that rises against me is condemned or shown to be wrong and stopped. This is the heritage God has given me as a servant of the Lord and my righteousness is of Him - Isaiah 54:17.
Like Jesus, I love righteousness and I hate iniquity; therefore God anoints me with the oil of gladness - Hebrews 1:9.
Lord, You said there is no temptation that has come to me or that can come to me that is not common to man, nothing that is beyond human resistance. You are faithful to Your Word and to Your love for me, and You will not allow me to be tempted beyond my strength to resist and You will provide a way out or a way of escape so I will be strong against it - 1 Corinthians 10:13.
I am of God and I have overcome every anti-Christ spirit because greater is He who is in me than he who is in the world - 1 John 4:4.
This is the victory that causes me to overcome in this world - my faith in Jesus and in His Word - 1 John 5:4,5.
I live and walk by faith and not by sight or feelings - 2 Corinthians 5:7.
I live by every Word that proceeds from the mouth of God - Matthew 4:4.
I let the Word of Christ dwell in me richly in all wisdom - Colossians 3:16.
The spirit of faith is, I believe and therefore I speak - 2 Corinthians 4:13.
I overcome the devil by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of my testimony, not loving my life unto the death - Revelation 12:11.
I shall live and not die to declare the works of the Lord in this earth - Psalm 118:17.
All things are working together for good in my life because I love God and I am called according to His purpose - Romans 8:28.
Thanks be to God who gives me the victory through my Lord Jesus Christ. He always causes me to triumph - 1 Corinthians 15:57; 2 Corinthians 2:14.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me - Philippians 4:13.
Amen!
Remember, declarations are powerful, but declarations are not simply spoken. Rather, a declaration is made consciously in agreement within the heart. From your heart, proclaim the truth out loud, boldly, and often!
4.30.2015
Abide & Declare
Declarations are powerful. Speaking biblical declarations confesses and proclaims God's truth in your life, helps you to stay synced with that truth, then helps you renew your mind and get in position against the devil. If you do not understand a particular truth, seek to understand what it means. A declaration is not simply spoken but is made consciously out of the heart. From your heart, proclaim them out loud, boldly, and often!
I am a disciplined [man/woman] of God. I give myself continually to prayer and to the ministry of the Word. I study to show myself approved unto God, a workman who needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. I am not conformed to this world, but transformed by the renewing of my mind, to prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. I am risen with Christ. I seek those things which are above where Christ sits on the right hand of God. I set my mind on those things above, not on the things on this earth. Whatsoever things are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous, and praiseworthy, these are the only things I fix my mind on.
I love all people and seek to see them through God's eyes. I love [spouse name] as Jesus loved the church, and gave himself for it. Church and spouse-- we walk in harmony and in one accord. We are one by the Spirit of God. I love [children’s names]. I labor to train them in the way they should go, and when they are old they will not depart from it. I raise them up in the nurture and the admonition of the Lord. Likewise I raise up spiritual children. I labor in discipling them. I teach them to disciple others.
My body is the temple of the Holy Ghost. There shall no evil befall me, neither shall any plague come near my dwelling. By the stripes of Jesus I am healed. I am blessed with the blessings of Abraham. I am very rich in silver and in gold. The blessing of the Lord makes me rich and He adds no sorrow to it. I prosper and live in health even as my soul prospers. As He who has called me is holy, so I am holy in all manner of lifestyle because it is written, "Be ye holy as I am holy".
I put off concerning the former conversation, the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts. I am renewed in the spirit of my mind and put on the new man which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. I am now strong and very courageous. The Word of God shall not depart out of my mouth, but I meditate therein day and night to observe to do according to all that is written therein. Yes, I abide! Then, and only then, do I make my way prosperous and blessed. All glory and honor and power and praise to the LORD God forever and ever! Amen.
I am a disciplined [man/woman] of God. I give myself continually to prayer and to the ministry of the Word. I study to show myself approved unto God, a workman who needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. I am not conformed to this world, but transformed by the renewing of my mind, to prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. I am risen with Christ. I seek those things which are above where Christ sits on the right hand of God. I set my mind on those things above, not on the things on this earth. Whatsoever things are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous, and praiseworthy, these are the only things I fix my mind on.
I love all people and seek to see them through God's eyes. I love [spouse name] as Jesus loved the church, and gave himself for it. Church and spouse-- we walk in harmony and in one accord. We are one by the Spirit of God. I love [children’s names]. I labor to train them in the way they should go, and when they are old they will not depart from it. I raise them up in the nurture and the admonition of the Lord. Likewise I raise up spiritual children. I labor in discipling them. I teach them to disciple others.
My body is the temple of the Holy Ghost. There shall no evil befall me, neither shall any plague come near my dwelling. By the stripes of Jesus I am healed. I am blessed with the blessings of Abraham. I am very rich in silver and in gold. The blessing of the Lord makes me rich and He adds no sorrow to it. I prosper and live in health even as my soul prospers. As He who has called me is holy, so I am holy in all manner of lifestyle because it is written, "Be ye holy as I am holy".
I put off concerning the former conversation, the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts. I am renewed in the spirit of my mind and put on the new man which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. I am now strong and very courageous. The Word of God shall not depart out of my mouth, but I meditate therein day and night to observe to do according to all that is written therein. Yes, I abide! Then, and only then, do I make my way prosperous and blessed. All glory and honor and power and praise to the LORD God forever and ever! Amen.
3.10.2015
Declare Who You Are in Christ
I am God's child. John 1:12
I am a friend of Jesus Christ. John 15:15
I am justified. Romans 5:1
I am one spirit with the Lord. 1 Corinthians 6:17
I have been bought with a price and I glorify God in my body. 1 Corinthians 6:20
I am a member of Christ's body. 1 Corinthians 12:27
I am the temple of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 6:19
I have been blessed with every spiritual blessing. Ephesians 1:3
I am holy and blameless. Ephesians 1:4
I am adopted by God to be His child. Ephesians 1:5
I am redeemed and forgiven. Ephesians 1:7
I am lavished with His kindness and wisdom and understanding. Ephesians 1:8
He has revealed His plan to me. Ephesians 1:9
I have been rescued from darkness and transferred into the kingdom of Christ. Colossians 1:13
I am complete, lacking nothing, in Him. Colossians 2:10
I have the right to come boldly to the throne of God. Hebrews 4:16
I am free from condemnation. Romans 8:1
I am free from sin and death. Romans 8:2
I am called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28
God is for me. Romans 8:31
I am in right standing with God. Romans 8:33
Nothing can separate me from God's love. Romans 8:38
I am enabled to stand firm in Christ. 2 Corinthians 1:21
I can do ALL things through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13
I am identified as Christ' because the Holy Spirit is in my heart. 2 Corinthians 1:22
I am guaranteed everything He has promised. 2 Corinthians 1:22
I think on the things of heaven and not of this earth. Colossians 3:2
I have died to this life and live hidden in Christ. Colossians 3:3
The good work which was started in me by God will be finished by Him. Philippians 1:6
I am a citizen of heaven. Philippians 3:20
I do not have a spirit of fear. I have a spirit of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7
I do not practice sin. Jesus keeps me safe and the devil cannot touch me. 1 John 5:18
I am a branch on the vine of Christ and I produce much fruit. John 15:5
I am chosen and I produce lasting fruit. John 15:16
I ask anything from God in Jesus name and I get it. John 15:16
I am a new person, my old life is GONE! 2 Corinthians 5:17
I am a messenger of reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5:19
I am an ambassador for God. 2 Corinthians 5:20
I am the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21
I have been raised from the dead with Christ and seated with Him in heavenly realms. Ephesians 2:6
I am God's masterpiece, I do good things that He, long ago, had planned for me. Ephesians 2:10
I am an imitator of God Ephesians 5:1
I am led by the spirit of God. Romans 8:14
I have been healed by His stripes. 1 Peter 2:24
I give all my cares to Him because He cares for me. 1 Peter 5:7
My joy is full. 1 John 1:4
His angels protect me wherever I go. Psalm 91:11
I am saved. Ephesians 2:8
He has given me everything I need to live godly. 2 Peter 1:3
He has given me great and precious promises. 2 Peter 1:4
I share in His divine nature and escape this world's corruption. 2 Peter 1:4
I am not blind and do not forget that He has cleansed me from my old ways. 2 Peter 1:9
I do not go by what I see, but that which is not seen 2 Corinthians 4:18
I choose to walk by faith and not by sight. 2 Corinthians 6:7
I have authority over all the ability of the enemy and nothing by any means hurts me. Luke 10:19
Whatever I bind on earth is bound in heaven and whatever I loose on earth is loosed in heaven. Matthew 16:19
All of my needs are supplied. Philippians 4:19
I give myself to God as a living, holy, acceptable sacrifice. Romans 12:1
I do not act like the world, I transform my mind. Romans 12:2
I prove God's good, acceptable and perfect will. Romans 12:2
I do not think more highly of myself than I ought to. Romans 12:3
I do not fight against flesh and blood, but against principalities, powers and the rulers of darkness in high places. Ephesians 6:12
My weapons are not carnal, but mighty in God. 2 Corinthians 10:4
I take every thought captive that tries to exalt itself above the knowledge of God. 2 Corinthians 10:5
I am strong in the Lord and the power of His might. Ephesians 6:10
I am an overcomer by His blood and the word of my testimony. Revelation 12:11
I DO NOT love my life, but His life living through me. Revelation 12:11
I have the same spirit that raised Christ from the dead dwelling in me and it makes alive and heals my mortal body. Romans 8:11
Declarations are powerful. Speaking biblical declarations confesses and proclaims God's truth in your life, renews your mind, and helps you to stay synced with God's truth and to get in position against the devil. If you do not understand a particular truth listed above, seek to understand what it means. A declaration is not simply spoken but is made consciously out of the heart. From your heart, proclaim them out loud, boldly, and often!
I am a friend of Jesus Christ. John 15:15
I am justified. Romans 5:1
I am one spirit with the Lord. 1 Corinthians 6:17
I have been bought with a price and I glorify God in my body. 1 Corinthians 6:20
I am a member of Christ's body. 1 Corinthians 12:27
I am the temple of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 6:19
I have been blessed with every spiritual blessing. Ephesians 1:3
I am holy and blameless. Ephesians 1:4
I am adopted by God to be His child. Ephesians 1:5
I am redeemed and forgiven. Ephesians 1:7
I am lavished with His kindness and wisdom and understanding. Ephesians 1:8
He has revealed His plan to me. Ephesians 1:9
I have been rescued from darkness and transferred into the kingdom of Christ. Colossians 1:13
I am complete, lacking nothing, in Him. Colossians 2:10
I have the right to come boldly to the throne of God. Hebrews 4:16
I am free from condemnation. Romans 8:1
I am free from sin and death. Romans 8:2
I am called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28
God is for me. Romans 8:31
I am in right standing with God. Romans 8:33
Nothing can separate me from God's love. Romans 8:38
I am enabled to stand firm in Christ. 2 Corinthians 1:21
I can do ALL things through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13
I am identified as Christ' because the Holy Spirit is in my heart. 2 Corinthians 1:22
I am guaranteed everything He has promised. 2 Corinthians 1:22
I think on the things of heaven and not of this earth. Colossians 3:2
I have died to this life and live hidden in Christ. Colossians 3:3
The good work which was started in me by God will be finished by Him. Philippians 1:6
I am a citizen of heaven. Philippians 3:20
I do not have a spirit of fear. I have a spirit of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7
I do not practice sin. Jesus keeps me safe and the devil cannot touch me. 1 John 5:18
I am a branch on the vine of Christ and I produce much fruit. John 15:5
I am chosen and I produce lasting fruit. John 15:16
I ask anything from God in Jesus name and I get it. John 15:16
I am a new person, my old life is GONE! 2 Corinthians 5:17
I am a messenger of reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5:19
I am an ambassador for God. 2 Corinthians 5:20
I am the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21
I have been raised from the dead with Christ and seated with Him in heavenly realms. Ephesians 2:6
I am God's masterpiece, I do good things that He, long ago, had planned for me. Ephesians 2:10
I am an imitator of God Ephesians 5:1
I am led by the spirit of God. Romans 8:14
I have been healed by His stripes. 1 Peter 2:24
I give all my cares to Him because He cares for me. 1 Peter 5:7
My joy is full. 1 John 1:4
His angels protect me wherever I go. Psalm 91:11
I am saved. Ephesians 2:8
He has given me everything I need to live godly. 2 Peter 1:3
He has given me great and precious promises. 2 Peter 1:4
I share in His divine nature and escape this world's corruption. 2 Peter 1:4
I am not blind and do not forget that He has cleansed me from my old ways. 2 Peter 1:9
I do not go by what I see, but that which is not seen 2 Corinthians 4:18
I choose to walk by faith and not by sight. 2 Corinthians 6:7
I have authority over all the ability of the enemy and nothing by any means hurts me. Luke 10:19
Whatever I bind on earth is bound in heaven and whatever I loose on earth is loosed in heaven. Matthew 16:19
All of my needs are supplied. Philippians 4:19
I give myself to God as a living, holy, acceptable sacrifice. Romans 12:1
I do not act like the world, I transform my mind. Romans 12:2
I prove God's good, acceptable and perfect will. Romans 12:2
I do not think more highly of myself than I ought to. Romans 12:3
I do not fight against flesh and blood, but against principalities, powers and the rulers of darkness in high places. Ephesians 6:12
My weapons are not carnal, but mighty in God. 2 Corinthians 10:4
I take every thought captive that tries to exalt itself above the knowledge of God. 2 Corinthians 10:5
I am strong in the Lord and the power of His might. Ephesians 6:10
I am an overcomer by His blood and the word of my testimony. Revelation 12:11
I DO NOT love my life, but His life living through me. Revelation 12:11
I have the same spirit that raised Christ from the dead dwelling in me and it makes alive and heals my mortal body. Romans 8:11
Declarations are powerful. Speaking biblical declarations confesses and proclaims God's truth in your life, renews your mind, and helps you to stay synced with God's truth and to get in position against the devil. If you do not understand a particular truth listed above, seek to understand what it means. A declaration is not simply spoken but is made consciously out of the heart. From your heart, proclaim them out loud, boldly, and often!
2.04.2015
In Jordan: War or Peace
Recently, God placed the situation in the Middle East with Syria and ISIS on my heart and showed me what He would prefer to be the real story regarding the situation.
I didn't seek it out. All I did was looked at the news reports.
When I looked, I saw God's finger pointing towards the side, away from all the bloody conflict. He was pointing in the direction of the nation of Jordan. I followed His gaze and I recognized His Heart's desire regarding the matter.
He was pointing to the Syrian and Iraqi refugees in Jordan and His heart is to reach them with the Good News. His heart is to love them and heal them and to bring them into His family. This much I knew for a few months.
This impression got more interesting the other day when I opened the Scriptures to read a Psalm. I felt God saying "Psalm 37". I turned to Psalm 37 and began reading:
I am calling your attention to the unique opportunity that has currently formed in the nation of Jordan. As millions of refugees flee bloody wars in neighboring Syria and Iraq, we have an opportunity to love on and to heal these downtrodden people by bringing them the Only Hope as found in the Good News of Jesus Christ. These people, who have been hostile to the Good News for centuries, are now painfully disenfranchised and are congregated in this one area with many needs and a lessened hostility.
Every day, they contemplete their plight. They contemplate their wounds. They re-examine their beliefs. They are ready. They are ready to hear the Good News! They are right there! They are ripe for the harvest!
God charged believers in Jesus Christ with the responsibility of advancing the Good News of the Kingdom of God. Don't wait to do something. Act now. Responsibility fslls on believers like you and me. This opportunity will not last forever.
Come to think of it, if you and I do nothing to help these people in this opportune time, what right do we have to complain when bleak news reports come in from the Middle East? We would have had our chance to release the Kingdom of God among the people there. The Kingdom of God is where lasting peace is. That peace helps them and their nation, Israel, you and your nation, and me and my nation-- that peace helps everyone!
But if you and I do nothing, then we can't complain when we turn on the news. You and I would have known how to bring real peace to these people and this region, but all we did was pound the couch and argue with the news anchor.
Evil thrives on fear, confusion, and pride. When we respond to evil with fear, confusion, and/or pride, it starts a perpetual cycle that enables evil to tighten it's thorny grip and dig in even deeper. Responding with fear often leads to prejudices, paranoia or even paralysis. None of these responses are fitting for representatives of The Prince of Peace. With these fearful responses-- prejudice, paranoia, and paralysis, etc.-- the two sides in the matter are set against each other. This provokes a defensive mechanism from the instigator group. That mechanism often means a relentless venegeance that stokes the fear of the moderate group all over again. Around the cycle goes-- all over again-- creating a stronghold for all the vices involved. You tear down the stronghold by stopping this cycle. Instead of fear, confusion, and subjectivity-- how about living in power and love and a sound mind (2 Tim. 1:7)? How about trying selfless servitude and objective understanding towards the other side?
Case in point is the way Westerners deal (or don't deal) with Muslims.
"Too many Christians respond in the same way to situations like ISIS, the Ebola outbreak, an economy in a tailspin or any other trial that feels completely out of control... When the ground begins to move under our feet, fear tempts us to cut and run." --The ISIS Crisis, Dr. Charles Dyer, Mark Tobey (Moody Publishers)
The key is not to recklessly walk onto a battlefield or run out there and get Ebola. Yes, God can protect you and heal you. At that, I daresay He will! But the key here is simply to not fear the evil involved in the situation. The key is to be drawn to these atrocities in the victory of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit and to be ready and willing as a peacemaker of God to pour the peace of God into any and all people. No matter who, what, or where. It doesn't mean you have to walk into a war zone. It does mean you become willing to do so and you make yourself available to God for such. You might be blessed to send money or reach out to certain International students. Or you might find opportunity in a neighboring country-- like with Jordan today. But do not fear! Do not clamp up and run!
So how do you overcome the fear? In Christ Jesus, you trust God. If you can't find a particular fruit within yourself, then you can renew your mind and repent (change), ask God for that fruit in your life, and ask for the Holy Spirit to fill that particular room of your heart. He will certainly produe wonderful fruits in your life if you ask Him and seek after Him. Then, you ask for Him to help you. You step out in faith. You listen to His voice which will guide you. He will meet you there. And if He doesn't? And even if He doesn't, you trust that He is just. Even if they kill you, God will judge the matter one day-- and you trust that He is just. You are to be at peace no matter what happens.
But Satan, on the other hand, wants fear. Satan wants strife. Satan wants to divide brother against brother and nation against nation. Satan wants military action. Satan wants war. Satan planned war and death to destroy the Syrian and Iraqi people forever!
But God planned their salvation!
Yes! Their salvation! But will these people realize that salvation? Will they realize that peace? That may be up to you and me.
Listen! God is calling to all His children:
"LOOK! LOOK! I HAVE PREPARED THE SOIL! I HAVE WEEDED OUT THE TARES! WHILE THEY ARE AT WAR, I HAVE GATHERED THE PEOPLE IN ONE PLACE! I HAVE PREPARED THE WAY! WHO WILL GO?" God says, "EVIL DESTROYS ITSELF. IT'S PATH LEADS TO DESTRUCTION. IT'S WAGES-- DEATH. BUT I GIVE LIFE THROUGH MY SON. RECEIVE IT AND BE GLAD! BE VERY GLAD! FOR SOME MAY NEVER HEAR MY WORD. WHO WILL TAKE IT TO THEM?"
Yes, who will take it to them? Who will go?
I didn't seek it out. All I did was looked at the news reports.
When I looked, I saw God's finger pointing towards the side, away from all the bloody conflict. He was pointing in the direction of the nation of Jordan. I followed His gaze and I recognized His Heart's desire regarding the matter.
He was pointing to the Syrian and Iraqi refugees in Jordan and His heart is to reach them with the Good News. His heart is to love them and heal them and to bring them into His family. This much I knew for a few months.
This impression got more interesting the other day when I opened the Scriptures to read a Psalm. I felt God saying "Psalm 37". I turned to Psalm 37 and began reading:
The wicked draw their swords
and string their bows
to kill the poor and the oppressed,
to slaughter those who do right.
But their swords will stab their own hearts,
and their bows will be broken.
Psalm 37:14-15
and string their bows
to kill the poor and the oppressed,
to slaughter those who do right.
But their swords will stab their own hearts,
and their bows will be broken.
Psalm 37:14-15
I am calling your attention to the unique opportunity that has currently formed in the nation of Jordan. As millions of refugees flee bloody wars in neighboring Syria and Iraq, we have an opportunity to love on and to heal these downtrodden people by bringing them the Only Hope as found in the Good News of Jesus Christ. These people, who have been hostile to the Good News for centuries, are now painfully disenfranchised and are congregated in this one area with many needs and a lessened hostility.
Every day, they contemplete their plight. They contemplate their wounds. They re-examine their beliefs. They are ready. They are ready to hear the Good News! They are right there! They are ripe for the harvest!
God charged believers in Jesus Christ with the responsibility of advancing the Good News of the Kingdom of God. Don't wait to do something. Act now. Responsibility fslls on believers like you and me. This opportunity will not last forever.
Come to think of it, if you and I do nothing to help these people in this opportune time, what right do we have to complain when bleak news reports come in from the Middle East? We would have had our chance to release the Kingdom of God among the people there. The Kingdom of God is where lasting peace is. That peace helps them and their nation, Israel, you and your nation, and me and my nation-- that peace helps everyone!
But if you and I do nothing, then we can't complain when we turn on the news. You and I would have known how to bring real peace to these people and this region, but all we did was pound the couch and argue with the news anchor.
Evil thrives on fear, confusion, and pride. When we respond to evil with fear, confusion, and/or pride, it starts a perpetual cycle that enables evil to tighten it's thorny grip and dig in even deeper. Responding with fear often leads to prejudices, paranoia or even paralysis. None of these responses are fitting for representatives of The Prince of Peace. With these fearful responses-- prejudice, paranoia, and paralysis, etc.-- the two sides in the matter are set against each other. This provokes a defensive mechanism from the instigator group. That mechanism often means a relentless venegeance that stokes the fear of the moderate group all over again. Around the cycle goes-- all over again-- creating a stronghold for all the vices involved. You tear down the stronghold by stopping this cycle. Instead of fear, confusion, and subjectivity-- how about living in power and love and a sound mind (2 Tim. 1:7)? How about trying selfless servitude and objective understanding towards the other side?
Case in point is the way Westerners deal (or don't deal) with Muslims.
"Too many Christians respond in the same way to situations like ISIS, the Ebola outbreak, an economy in a tailspin or any other trial that feels completely out of control... When the ground begins to move under our feet, fear tempts us to cut and run." --The ISIS Crisis, Dr. Charles Dyer, Mark Tobey (Moody Publishers)
The key is not to recklessly walk onto a battlefield or run out there and get Ebola. Yes, God can protect you and heal you. At that, I daresay He will! But the key here is simply to not fear the evil involved in the situation. The key is to be drawn to these atrocities in the victory of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit and to be ready and willing as a peacemaker of God to pour the peace of God into any and all people. No matter who, what, or where. It doesn't mean you have to walk into a war zone. It does mean you become willing to do so and you make yourself available to God for such. You might be blessed to send money or reach out to certain International students. Or you might find opportunity in a neighboring country-- like with Jordan today. But do not fear! Do not clamp up and run!
So how do you overcome the fear? In Christ Jesus, you trust God. If you can't find a particular fruit within yourself, then you can renew your mind and repent (change), ask God for that fruit in your life, and ask for the Holy Spirit to fill that particular room of your heart. He will certainly produe wonderful fruits in your life if you ask Him and seek after Him. Then, you ask for Him to help you. You step out in faith. You listen to His voice which will guide you. He will meet you there. And if He doesn't? And even if He doesn't, you trust that He is just. Even if they kill you, God will judge the matter one day-- and you trust that He is just. You are to be at peace no matter what happens.
But Satan, on the other hand, wants fear. Satan wants strife. Satan wants to divide brother against brother and nation against nation. Satan wants military action. Satan wants war. Satan planned war and death to destroy the Syrian and Iraqi people forever!
But God planned their salvation!
Yes! Their salvation! But will these people realize that salvation? Will they realize that peace? That may be up to you and me.
Listen! God is calling to all His children:
"LOOK! LOOK! I HAVE PREPARED THE SOIL! I HAVE WEEDED OUT THE TARES! WHILE THEY ARE AT WAR, I HAVE GATHERED THE PEOPLE IN ONE PLACE! I HAVE PREPARED THE WAY! WHO WILL GO?" God says, "EVIL DESTROYS ITSELF. IT'S PATH LEADS TO DESTRUCTION. IT'S WAGES-- DEATH. BUT I GIVE LIFE THROUGH MY SON. RECEIVE IT AND BE GLAD! BE VERY GLAD! FOR SOME MAY NEVER HEAR MY WORD. WHO WILL TAKE IT TO THEM?"
Yes, who will take it to them? Who will go?
1.15.2015
An Invitation to Perspectives
It's January, snow covers the ground and fresh semester cycles are beginning everywhere. Whether you are a student, a working adult, a stay at home mom, or a retired couple, I want to share with you an amazing course called Perspectives.
Perspectives is short for Perspectives on the World Christian Movement, a course created to help believers from all walks of life see how they can get threaded into God’s story of redeeming people from every tribe, tongue, and nation to Himself!
From Genesis to the prophets, Jesus Christ to the early church, and Constantine to today, students will see how God has been moving, how the global Church has responded, and what the greatest needs in world evangelization remain today. Though Perspectives does study missions, it isn’t a class about missions, but a course on how every believer can be intimately woven into the story of God using His people to be a blessing to all the peoples of the earth!
Perspectives is a ministry of the U.S. Center for World Mission, a non-denominational ministry that exists to enhance the effectiveness of the mission movement. The course, however, operates almost completely through a network of trained volunteers. Here is one such volunteer. The course impacted me so much that I have been helping prepare for YOU to take it too!
I'm honored to invite you to the upcoming semester of Perspectives! This class changed my life and it consistently changes it's student's lives! The hit rate is amazing! The course clarified and strengthened my understanding of what God has been doing and changed the way I live for God's purposes! The course indeed threaded me into what God is doing from four perspectives: from the biblical perspective, from the historical perspective, from the cultural perspective, and from the strategic perspective. The course is so rich and in-depth; you really don't want to miss it!
Over 15 weeks, we have 15 different speakers from around the world lined up to teach students about what God is has been up to! The speakers are amazing! The most unique aspect of the course is the diversity and quality of the speakers. Generally, every class schedules a lineup of Biblical scholars, missionaries, pastors, professors, and mobilizers who bring a wealth of experience and passion to each lesson. Some speakers are flown in just to teach you and some speakers are more local. Your speaker could be a businessman who’s using his company to bless an impoverished African country, a pastor from a local church, or a missionary fresh back from Timbuktu. When I took the class, we had speakers from India, Mongolia, and the Middle East! Don't miss out!
After classes, we have an incredible book and study guide written especially for this course. This book and study guide are the meat of the course-- and they're LOADED! The Perspectives book is a collection of some amazing articles by a wide variety of Biblical scholars, historians, missiologists, and practicioners. The Perspectives study guide helps students navigate through the book and ushers students through the study of God’s mission and character through the Bible, Christian history, culture, and the task remaining in world evangelization. Each week, students will do a few hours of reading and a review. Who knew readings and homework would change your life? Yes! No joke! At the end of the semster, students will receive a certificate for their accomplishment! The certificate isn't useless either; it will benefit you with many non-profit organizations.
Perspectives is for anyone from about the upper-high school age and on. There is a registration fee-- I know, I know, we all hate that too!-- but it is totally worth it! Registration cost varies by class. Check your particular class page for more information. Regardless, the investment will be well worth the cost! There are 3 levels of registration but the Certificate Level is the recommended level (over key reading) for getting the full impact of the course (unless you need college credit). Some students have found sponsors. If you need to, check with local churches or generous individuals who might be willing to help you out!
There are many classes throughout the country and throughout the world as well. To find your class, visit the Perspectives Classes page!
Spread the word about Perspectives. Share this post. Talk about Perspectives with your friends, family, and anyone who may be interested. If you can't make the class, maybe someone else can. Or maybe they'll go with you next year or whenever it is you take it. You're on the scent now. Get them started on the scent too! We can't wait to see you there!
Perspectives is short for Perspectives on the World Christian Movement, a course created to help believers from all walks of life see how they can get threaded into God’s story of redeeming people from every tribe, tongue, and nation to Himself!
From Genesis to the prophets, Jesus Christ to the early church, and Constantine to today, students will see how God has been moving, how the global Church has responded, and what the greatest needs in world evangelization remain today. Though Perspectives does study missions, it isn’t a class about missions, but a course on how every believer can be intimately woven into the story of God using His people to be a blessing to all the peoples of the earth!
Perspectives is a ministry of the U.S. Center for World Mission, a non-denominational ministry that exists to enhance the effectiveness of the mission movement. The course, however, operates almost completely through a network of trained volunteers. Here is one such volunteer. The course impacted me so much that I have been helping prepare for YOU to take it too!
I'm honored to invite you to the upcoming semester of Perspectives! This class changed my life and it consistently changes it's student's lives! The hit rate is amazing! The course clarified and strengthened my understanding of what God has been doing and changed the way I live for God's purposes! The course indeed threaded me into what God is doing from four perspectives: from the biblical perspective, from the historical perspective, from the cultural perspective, and from the strategic perspective. The course is so rich and in-depth; you really don't want to miss it!
Over 15 weeks, we have 15 different speakers from around the world lined up to teach students about what God is has been up to! The speakers are amazing! The most unique aspect of the course is the diversity and quality of the speakers. Generally, every class schedules a lineup of Biblical scholars, missionaries, pastors, professors, and mobilizers who bring a wealth of experience and passion to each lesson. Some speakers are flown in just to teach you and some speakers are more local. Your speaker could be a businessman who’s using his company to bless an impoverished African country, a pastor from a local church, or a missionary fresh back from Timbuktu. When I took the class, we had speakers from India, Mongolia, and the Middle East! Don't miss out!
After classes, we have an incredible book and study guide written especially for this course. This book and study guide are the meat of the course-- and they're LOADED! The Perspectives book is a collection of some amazing articles by a wide variety of Biblical scholars, historians, missiologists, and practicioners. The Perspectives study guide helps students navigate through the book and ushers students through the study of God’s mission and character through the Bible, Christian history, culture, and the task remaining in world evangelization. Each week, students will do a few hours of reading and a review. Who knew readings and homework would change your life? Yes! No joke! At the end of the semster, students will receive a certificate for their accomplishment! The certificate isn't useless either; it will benefit you with many non-profit organizations.
Perspectives is for anyone from about the upper-high school age and on. There is a registration fee-- I know, I know, we all hate that too!-- but it is totally worth it! Registration cost varies by class. Check your particular class page for more information. Regardless, the investment will be well worth the cost! There are 3 levels of registration but the Certificate Level is the recommended level (over key reading) for getting the full impact of the course (unless you need college credit). Some students have found sponsors. If you need to, check with local churches or generous individuals who might be willing to help you out!
There are many classes throughout the country and throughout the world as well. To find your class, visit the Perspectives Classes page!
Spread the word about Perspectives. Share this post. Talk about Perspectives with your friends, family, and anyone who may be interested. If you can't make the class, maybe someone else can. Or maybe they'll go with you next year or whenever it is you take it. You're on the scent now. Get them started on the scent too! We can't wait to see you there!
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