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Are You Ready For Hope Built On A Revelation Of Jesus Christ?

January 4, 2025 Effie Barba Leave a comment

Is there anything more important in this world than to know Jesus Christ? And what does it mean to really know Him? Certainly, it begins with that head knowledge, but that is not enough to really know Him. There must be a wooing of the Spirit drawing one to desire to know Him. Like suddenly falling in love-wanting to know everything about Him. Then as time passes, we realize our only true hope is built on a revelation of Jesus Christ ever growing within. There deep within one’s heart we discover a yearning for something only He can fill. We seek hope, joy, peace, and search everywhere in vain; just as King Solomon in Ecclesiastes had searched.

No amount of wealth, wisdom, possessions, nor human love was enough to fulfill the empty place of void. His conclusion “Fear God and keep His commandments, For this is man’s all.” Ecclesiastes 12:13 NKJV

Suddenly, one day, unable to resist anymore, you ask Him into your heart. Believing He is God Incarnate, the only begotten son of God the Father who willingly for love of us and the Father came to live a perfect life we could never live and die the death we deserved, reserved for us. At that moment in time, overwhelmed with emotion, we ask Him to be Lord of our lives. Then, step by step the Holy Spirit over the remainder of our lifetime through good times and bad teach us of Him. And the more we know of Him, the deeper we fall in love with Him. We begin to realize our hope is built on a revelation of Jesus Christ. A Revelation far beyond what we could ever imagine.

Why we long for a Revelation of Jesus Christ?

I could say I know Pastor Jamieson, but do I really? Certainly, I see his actions and hear his words. From that I might conclude he is a devoted husband, father, and pastor. I could conclude he loves God and desires to serve him. But do I really know His heart? His wife and children could proclaim a greater knowledge of him; yet, do we ever truly, fully know another person.

Yet, Jesus knows us. There is no thought that passes through my brain but that He knows. Imagine that every thought?

Lord, You have searched me and known me.
You know when I sit down and when I get up;
You understand my thought from far away.
You scrutinize my path and my lying down,
And are acquainted with all my ways.
Even before there is a word on my tongue,
Behold, Lord, You know it all.
You have encircled me behind and in front,
And placed Your hand upon me.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
It is too high, I cannot comprehend it. Psalm 139:1-6 (NASB)

It is incomprehensible to consider He Knows me completely and loves me just the same. Is not that reason enough to long for every revelation of who He is.

The Book of Revelations Begins

The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants—things which must shortly take place. And He sent and signified it by His angel to His servant John, who bore witness to the word of God, and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, to all things that he saw. Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near. Revelation 1:1-3 (NKJV)

So, let us not skim past this. This book is the revelation of Jesus Christ which God Gave Him to show His servants. God gave Him this revelation of Himself as Jesus is the perfect reflection of the Father as we saw last week. The exact image.

Who (Jesus) being the brightness of His (God the Father’s) glory and the express image of His person and upholding all things by the word of His power, Hebrews 1:3 NKJV

A Messenger Angel Sent Forth by Jesus in the Revelation of Jesus Christ

Then Jesus sent His Messenger Angel to relay all this to John on the aisle of Patmus. A late 2nd century theologian named Tertullian wrote that the Roman Emperor Domitian had boiled John in a pot of oil attempting to kill him; but he was unscathed by the burning oil. So, to shut him up, they exiled him to a very harsh island alone. While on the aisle of Patmus, Jesus sent His Messenger Angel to John with the in-depth revelation of Himself.

Why send the Messenger Angel? Perhaps that we might see also a glimpse of the Glory He so willingly lay aside to come to earth. After all He has angels surrounding Him willing to perform any act He commands of them.

Theodore H. Epp Explained

The opening words are “The Revelation of Jesus Christ”. The key word to the content and message of the Book is Revelation.

First of all, then, it is a revelation. The word “revelation” comes from the Greek word apokalupsis which means an uncovering, a disclosure or unveiling. We are familiar with the custom of a sculptor making a statue of some person, or an artist painting a picture, which is later unveiled so that the public can see it.

Just so here. The Bible tells us that which we have in this book is an unveiling of Jesus Christ….Revelation is not the Revelation of John but of Jesus Christ. That which was previously concealed is now revealed. Even though there are difficulties in understanding or interpreting certain passages in the Book, it was not written to be a mystery but rather to more clearly reveal or unveil certain truths concerning Jesus Christ. So we approach it expecting to learn from it, not expecting to be led into confusion.

This calls for a reading of the Book and a study of it. We will find as we do that God unveils Christ to us, presenting Him as both the Subject and the Object of the Book. It is a revelation of Him who is its Subject, that is, it is given by Him. He is also its Object so it is also about Him. Thus, we have a revelation of Jesus Christ, by Him and about Him. [1]

The Revelation of Jesus Christ: Our Hope Holds Fast in Him

John, to the seven churches which are in Asia:

Grace to you and peace from Him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne, and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth. Revelation 1:4-5 NKJV

Who else can offer grace and peace other than Jesus Himself? He is the great I AM, who Is, who was and who is to come.

The seven Spirits, who are before His throne, refers to the Holy Spirit in all His perfection. This references the passage in Isaiah 11:2,5

The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him,
The Spirit of wisdom and understanding,
The Spirit of counsel and might,
The Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord….And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loin

And who is sending the greeting as well? Jesus Christ, the faithful witness for who else can be the greater witness. He is the first born of the dead—only through Him can we be resurrected to life. Without His resurrection there would be no other resurrection to life. No hope for out spirits which are dead to God to come alive. No chance these dry bones could find life. Furthermore, He is the ruler over all the kings of the earth.

The Revelation of Jesus Christ—the faithful witness

Jesus Christ has been throughout the ages the faithful witness of God’s love, His grace, His righteousness, His patience and His Justice. Christ was a faithful witness even to the point of death. He would not deny the truth, that without the shedding of blood there could be no remission for sin. Theodore Epp wrote:

The Lord Jesus Christ has been a faithful witness concerning the righteousness of God. He has declared God’s righteousness showing how He is just and the Justifer of him who believes in Jesus. It is this very characteristic of God that makes it impossible for Him to allow sin in heaven or even the thought of it. Atonement was made for sin through Christ. So all who trust Him, all who dare to believe in Him are justified and are given eternal life.

Our Lord was faithful in His witness even unto death. In Pilate’s judgment hall Christ did not deny that He was the Son of God. He affirmed it. He could not and would not deny the truth concerning Himself. Though He might have been spared some suffering and scorn. He did not hesitate to witness before Pilate and the High Priest of Israel concerning Himself and God’s purposes through Him.[2]

The Revelation of Jesus Christ, Our Savior

To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. Revelation 1:5-6 NKJV

Not only did He save us but,

Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. Even so, Amen. Revelation 1:7 NKJV

And who is He?

“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End,” says the Lord, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”Revelation 1:8 NKJV

Vision of the Son of Man

Then I turned to see the voice that spoke with me. And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands, and in the midst of the seven lampstands One like the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the feet and girded about the chest with a golden band. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes like a flame of fire; His feet were like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace, and His voice as the sound of many waters;

He had in His right hand seven stars, out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword, and His countenance was like the sun shining in its strength. And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death. Revelation 1: 12-18

A Vision – A Revelation of Jesus Christ

The Vision John saw brought Reverent fear

Just like Isaiah, Ezekiel and Daniel; John fell upon his face at the appearance of Jesus. This was a reverent fear. The two-edged sword proceeded from the mount of Jesus revealing His perfect righteousness in judgement.

He is the Word of God. And “ the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12 NKJV

How wonderful and marvelous that God Almighty bid us to come, read, and hear this marvelous revelation of Jesus Christ. This book of the Bible is not meant to confuse or shrouded in mystery. Rather I truly believe, He has presented it with clarity for all to see. We should embrace His truth and study it as we would any part of the Word of God, believing that every Word is true written to demystify the Glorious Beauty of Jesus Christ in all His Splendor

An Outline of the Study

Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after this. The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands which you saw are the seven churches. Revelation 1:20

Clearly, God did not intend there to be any confusion. He is revealing what will yet take place considering history and the present time. That is what He told John and I believe it still. Revelation does not have to be a daunting study when we use the entirety of scripture to explain scripture. So this will be our goal over the next few weeks or months.

8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,

9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:

10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; Philippians 3

So, let us rejoice in the revelation of Jesus Christ, fully expecting it to transform our lives.

[2] IBID page 30-31

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Why is Jesus Absolutely Superior to Every Prophet, Priest, Angel, and King?

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

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Why is Jesus Absolutely Superior to Every Prophet, Priest, Angel, and King?

December 21, 2024 Effie Barba Leave a comment

The book of Hebrews presents Jesus as the Absolutely Superior Prophet, Priest, Angel, and King. As such it presents the truth: Jesus is the story. Always has been and always will be The Only True Story That Really Matters from eternity past forever eternally. The reason for everything. In the Old Testament, Jesus was presented in detail by the prophets foreshadowing the details of His coming birth, life and return as King yet to come. But more than that, He was also present in every story of history.

whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds Hebrews 1:3 ( NKJV)

Appointed as heir of all things. Everything is a part of His inheritance. God made everything out of love and honor of His son. Furthermore, through Him all things were made.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it….And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:1-5, 14 NKJV

Hebrews: The Story of It All

The Book of Hebrews perfectly intertwines the Old Testament and New Testament proof: Jesus is Absolutely Superior. It was written in a very high level Greek. We are not told who wrote the book, but of those considered Apollos does stand out as having all the traits needed to present this. It was of course addressed to the Hebrew believers that they might connect all the dots and have their eyes become fully opened.

Jesus Absolutely Superior and Equally God

Who (Jesus) being the brightness of His (God the Father’s) glory and the express image of His person Hebrews 1:3 NKJV

When you look at the sun, there is no separation from the light of the sun and the radiance that it gives. This is like the God the Father and the Son. No separation in essence; yet, different in person.

and upholding all things by the word of His power, Hebrews 1:3 NKJV

Only Jesus sustains everything. Every breath happens by the word of His power. One word and the storms ceased for the apostles’ boat and all the other boats. Yet, He willingly was born as a fragile child to then become the spotless lamb of God who would die in our place.

when He had by Himself purged our sins, (He) sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. Hebrews 1: 4 (NKJV)

For at the name of Jesus all knees will bow whether in heave and on earth.

Absolutely Superior to the Angels

Such a beautiful rendition of presenting interludes from Psalm 45, the writer here in Hebrews presents Jesus as so superior to the Angels.

For to which of the angels did He ever say:

“You are My Son,

Today I have begotten You”?

And again:

“I will be to Him a Father,

And He shall be to Me a Son”? Hebrews 1:5 (NKJV)

So, was there ever a time that the Son did not exist? Of course not, Jesus was eternally present as the Father. Yet, there was a time that He came into this world as a baby. God became a man. Therein, He who would be tempted as we are and yet not sin. Only then was He able to take upon Himself all the sins of this world. Only He could declare Tetelastai. IT is finished. And thereby usher in the Last Days. Victory became His when He died and then rose again. We are in the last days and have been for nearly 2000 years. But this, so that we His bride could be saved. Even though we are in the last days, we have not completed the final movement of the last days.

My heart is overflowing with a good theme;
I recite my composition concerning the King;
My tongue is the pen of a ready writer.You are fairer than the sons of men;
Grace is poured upon Your lips;
Therefore God has blessed You forever. Psalm 45: 1-2 (NKJV)

Obviously, the Sons of Korah, inspired by the Holy Spirit wrote this psalm about Jesus, though to them, He was no more than a promise. But a promise from God, is a promise secure. Next is what they wrote of Him

Absolutely Superior as King

Gird Your sword upon Your thigh, O Mighty One,
With Your glory and Your majesty.
And in Your majesty ride prosperously because of truth, humility, and righteousness;
And Your right hand shall teach You awesome things.
Your arrows are sharp in the heart of the King’s enemies;
The peoples fall under You. Psalm 45: 3-5 NKJV

Then as God would call Jesus God, note in verse 6 and 7 where it points out His throne is forever, and that God the Father has anointed Him with the oil of Gladness.

Your throne, O God, is forever and ever;
A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom.You love righteousness and hate wickedness;
Therefore God, Your God, has anointed You
With the oil of gladness more than Your companions.
All Your garments are scented with myrrh and aloes and cassia,
Out of the ivory palaces, by which they have made You glad.
Kings’ daughters are among Your honorable women;
At Your right hand stands the queen in gold from Ophir. Psalm 45:6-7

More Proof Jesus is Absolutely Superior to the Angels

Some even then wanted to worship the angels. Yet, the angels fall before Jesus in worship. They are his ministering spirits. He sends them to minister to we, the saved children of God.

But when He again brings the firstborn into the world, He says:

“Let all the angels of God worship Him.” Hebrews 1:6 NKJV

Even the angels rejoiced in worship of Him at His birth.

And of the angels He says:

“Who makes His angels spirits
And His ministers a flame of fire.” Hebrews 1:7 NKJV

For the angels powers were given them by their creator which was Jesus as earlier noted. By Him all things were created.

But to the Son He says:

“Your throne, O God, is forever and ever;
A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom.
You have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness;
Therefore God, Your God, has anointed You
With the oil of gladness more than Your companions.” Hebrews 1:8-9 (NKJV)

And:

“You, Lord, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth,
And the heavens are the work of Your hands.
They will perish, but You remain;
And they will all grow old like a garment;
Like a cloak You will fold them up,
And they will be changed.
But You are the same,
And Your years will not fail.” Hebrews 1:10-12 and Psalm 102:25-27

1:10–12 Quoted from Ps. 102:25–27. The Son who created the universe (John 1:1–3) one day will destroy the heavens and earth that He created (see notes on 2 Pet. 3:10–12), but He remains unchanged. Immutability is yet another characteristic of the divine essence. Once again the OT testifies of the Son’s deity.¹

¹³But to which of the angels has He ever said:

“Sit at My right hand,
Till I make Your enemies Your footstool”? Hebrews 1:13 NKJV

Because He is truly in command of the angels.

Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation. Hebrews 1:14 NKJV

Jesus was Absolutely Superior to Moses

 Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession, Christ Jesus, who was faithful to Him who appointed Him, as Moses also was faithful in all His house. For this One has been counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as He who built the house has more honor than the house. Hebrews 3:1-3 NKJV

God appointed Jesus as High Priest—the only High Priest that could truly provide the final sacrifice of innocent righteous blood.

Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:14-16 (NKJV)

He was not born of the tribe of Aaron, for He was King and born from the tribe of Judah as foretold. Then how could he be a priest.

though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him called by God as High Priest “according to the order of Melchizedek,”of whom we have much to say, and hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. Hebrews 5:8-10 (NKJV)

Mechizedek was both a Priest and King—chosen by God. A portrait of Jesus.

Jesus Brought the Superior Covenant

For if that first covenant had been faultless, then no place would have been sought for a second. Because finding fault with them, He says: “Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah— not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they did not continue in My covenant, and I disregarded them, says the Lord.

For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put My laws in their mind and write them on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.None of them shall teach his neighbor, and none his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ for all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them. For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more.”

In that He says, “A new covenant,” He has made the first obsolete. Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away. Hebrews 8:7-12 (NKJV)

Winding throughout the book of Hebrews there are warning to remain faithful; yet, at the same time, the sweetest depiction of the pure grace by which we are saved. The warnings were for those who do not truly believe; but, merely put on a show of believing. It was also a picture of the truth that those who truly know Christ as Lord and Savior, will hold fast to the truth. Not by the strength of their own hands but by the power of the Holy Spirit within. The Holy Spirit assures that every true believer will Hold Fast to the end. This is a lasting covenant; built upon the blood of Christ.

Jesus is the Absolutely Superior Tabernacle.

Did you realize the many chapters of the Bible speaking of the Tabernacle were painting a portrait of Christ?

But Christ came as High Priest of the good things to come, with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of this creation. Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption. For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, ¹⁴how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?

And for this reason He is the Mediator of the new covenant, by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions under the first covenant, that those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance. Hebrews 9:11-15 (NKJV)

Jesus is the Absolutely Superior Mediator

As Moses and the Priests had been mediators for between God and man, Jesus became the perfect mediator.

Therefore it was necessary that the copies of the things in the heavens should be purified with these, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.

For Christ has not entered the holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us;not that He should offer Himself often, as the high priest enters the Most Holy Place every year with blood of another— He then would have had to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now, once at the end of the ages, He has appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself.And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation. Hebrews 9:23-28 NKJV

Christ did not sprinkle the blood upon the tabernacle made by hands. He entered heaven where He presented the sacrifice to the Father as the final atonement for sin for all who believe in Him. He sits on the throne making intercessions for us.

Absolutely Superior Faith is ours to Hold Fast because of Jesus

Therefore it was necessary that the copies of the things in the heavens should be purified with these, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. For Christ has not entered the holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us;not that He should offer Himself often, as the high priest enters the Most Holy Place every year with blood of another— He then would have had to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now, once at the end of the ages, He has appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself.

And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation. Hebrews 11:1-3 NKJV

And Even Faith is a Gift exemplified by Jesus Christ.

Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, ²looking unto Jesus, the ^[author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls. Hebrews 12:1-3 (NKJV)

Therefore, He was Absolutely Superior in demonstrating faith, and providing the same for each of us.

¹ John McArthur, NKJV Study Bible Second Edition

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

How to Actually Know Abiding Steadfast Joy because Jesus is God Almighty

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2024

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The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

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How to Actually Know Abiding Steadfast Joy because Jesus is God Almighty

December 8, 2024 Effie Barba Leave a comment

Abiding, steadfast joy is not some frivolous, lackadaisical, fleeting joy. There are moments of overflowing, unspeakable indescribible joy. Yet it is also that slow steady stream of unwavering joy just beneath the surface, built on truth and hope. Joy steadying us during the trials of life. Abiding, steadfast joy is under-girded by the power of Jesus Christ who IS God Almighty incarnate! Emmanuel! God with us!

As we look through this past week’s scriptures in Colossians, Ephesians, Philippians, and I Peter, let us seek to understand this magnificent truth infused joy. First, we will look at the truth of who Jesus is and why that matters. Then I want us to explore three truths that lead to abiding, steadfast joy. Those being Our place in the Universe, Our Purpose, and our position in Christ. Understanding these fundamental truths changes everything, eternally within us. Thus, allowing us to abide in steadfast joy. A joy that nothing and no one can take away from us.

Jesus Christ IS God Almighty

When Paul wrote to the church of Colossae, he did so to address the false doctrines which had slipped into that church. At Colossae, there entered many false doctrines to include a mix of Jewish, pagan, and christian heresies. Those from Jewish background taught that Christ was not sufficient for salvation. Instead, salvation must include works, rituals, and ceremonies.

Another group introduced a pagan belief that all earthly matter was evil, denying divine creation. Hence this group , known as the early Gnosticism. They worshipped angelic beings. Furthermore, they declared there was secret knowledge only obtained by joining their cult.

The heretical groups within those calling themselves Christians went so far as to dethrone Christ. They declared Him not to be Divine nor the creator of the Universe. Hence were that true His death and resurrection could not purchase salvation. Serious false doctrines which could destroy this little church.

Paul addresses the issue of Jesus’s deity in Colossians.

He (Jesus) is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation, for all things in heaven and on earth were created in him—all things, whether visible or invisible, whether thrones or dominions, whether principalities or powers—all things were created through him and for him. He himself is before all things and all things are held together in him. Colossians 1:15-17 (NET)

For God was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in the Son and through him to reconcile all things to himself by making peace through the blood of his cross—through him, whether things on earth or things in heaven. Colossians 1:19 NET

God was pleased to have All HIS FULLNESS dwell in the Son. Jesus is the absolute direct mirrored image of God the Father. He is God Almighty. Therefore, in Him we have abiding, steadfast joy available to us.

Foundational Truth #1 to Know Abiding, Steadfast Joy-Place in the Universe

We must first understand our place on earth. I am His creation, and He is the creator. We belong to Him. Established as His bride, we become one with Christ.

And God put all things under Christ’s feet, and gave him to the church as head over all things. Now the church is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all. Ephesians 1:22-23 (ESV)

Beyond having been created in Him and for Him, our redemption was purchased by Him. We are His.

But God, being rich in mercy, because of his great love with which he loved us, even though we were dead in offenses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you are saved! and he raised us up together with him and seated us together with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, to demonstrate in the coming ages the surpassing wealth of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2: 4-7 NET

Jesus spoke of this Joy; when He prayed to the Father

But now I come to You, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves. John 17:13 NKJV

Also in John 15, We further Recognize Our Place

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:4-5 (ESV)

Therefore, remembering my place in this world. I am not the vine and cannot provide the necessary nutrients alone to produce the fruit of joy in my own life. No matter how hard I try.

If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world.”

― C.S. Lewis, ¹

Yet Jesus did promise us Joy

As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. John 15:9-11 (ESV)

Therefore, we may hold fast to abiding steadfast joy as we remember our place. We are the created being and need the life-giving sap of the Savior to fill us with joy.

Foundational Truth #2 to Know Abiding, Steadfast Joy- Purpose

Whenever asked “what is my purpose on earth”, the typical response by a Christian is “I live to bring Glory to God.” Though that may sound very pious, it did not take long for me to realize I have nothing within me to bring any glory to God. Besides, He does not need my glory. He is totally glorious and nothing I could do would increase His glory. You cannot improve perfect. So, what can my purpose be?

that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:9-11 (ESV)

It is God’s mercy that even works through me to accomplish His will. So if he can use anything I do or say to point someone to Christ, it is He working through me and not I, myself. It always amazes me when I think I am at my worst, stumbling in my witness—He steps in and saves the one I failed in my witness despite my failures.

Purpose of Peace As Well As United in One with Christ

Furthermore, my purpose is being a part of His Holy Temple in the Lord, knit together with other believers. In the following verse, Paul is pointing out their pupose is to be knit together. Both Jew and Gentile were called by God to be one church.

And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.

Foundational Truth #3 to Know Abiding, Steadfast Joy- Person

One must understand who we are in Jesus Christ. For in Jesus Christ I am His chosen, redeemed, beloved, gifted, enlightened child; heir of the kingdom of God, servant by choice, a new creation, sealed by the Holy Spirit, and a declared Saint. Why would I not be filled with an abiding, steadfast joy knowing that. So where is that found?

Our Position in Christ Confirmed in Scripture

Ephesians 1: 3-14 (ESV)

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him.

In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons (and daughters) through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of His glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses. According to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.

In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will. So that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory. In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit,ho is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.

Our position includes

you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. I Peter 2:9 (ESV)

Because of All That: Our Abiding Steadfast Joy is sure in Jesus

Furthermore, He provides us with armor

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.

Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, EPHESIANS 6: 10-18 (ESV)

Abiding Steadfast Joy In the Storm

In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

I Peter 1:6-9 (ESV)

Is there anything I can do to assist in having abiding steadfast Joy

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:4-9 (ESV)

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

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7 Amazing Reasons We Overflow with Hope in Jesus Christ

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2024

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7 Amazing Reasons We Overflow with Hope in Jesus Christ

December 1, 2024 Effie Barba Leave a comment

How wonderful and marvelous a thought! Our hope is not based on the frailties of this world. It is not based on a government, money, position, health, popularity, or anything this earth can offer. Our hope is based on the God of hope who can fill our very being with abounding hope by the power of the Holy Spirit because of Jesus Christ’s atoning work on the cross. We overflow with Hope in Jesus Christ!

We abound in hope because the God of hope fills us with all joy and peace in believing. Then He empowers us with the full power of the Holy Spirit who is the very essence of God’s hope, joy, and love in His son Jesus Christ. Here I wish to present 7 Amazing reasons we can overflow with Hope regardless of the storms we face or the fires we must walk through. Always and forever, our hope is in Jesus Christ.

Our hope is first founded in the truth of Justification, Redemption, and Sanctification by grace alone, through faith alone, in Jesus Christ Alone. This work in completed in us by the Holy Spirit and not of ourselves. Therefore, in addition to these first 3 Essential Reasons. We are also promised and given love, unity, gifts, and governance so we might shine forth this hope to all of whom we meet.

Reasons We Overflow with Hope—the book of Romans

Paul the apostle wrote the book of Romans most likely from Corinth. He longed to go there. The Roman church is believed to have been founded by some of the initial converts on the day of Pentecost. Neither Peter nor Paul had gone to Rome at that point. They referenced Peter because he was the one who preached at the day of Pentecost. Peter would later go to Rome around 68 AD near the time the temple in Jerusalem was destroyed by the Roman leaders. This letter was somewhere around 57 AD. That may be in part why it is the letter most complete in doctrine so as to have been even called the “Constitution of Christianity” or the Christian Manifesto.

Afterall if the church leaders had no formal training it was important they learn all the truth from the beginning. Step by step Paul explains the truth from the depravity of sin that indwelt all of mankind to the marvelous truth of the gospel message of salvation. He meticulously explains salvation as justification, redemption, and sanctification. Then he explains the further promises and gifts of love, unity, governance and gifts. Finally, throughout he explains the marvelous work of the Holy Spirit in all of this.

ROMANS 1 to overflow with Hope

Paul, a bondservant of Christ Jesus. Called as an apostle. Set apart for the gospel of God, which He promised beforehand through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures concerning His Son. Who was born of a descendant of David according to the flesh. Who was declared the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness by the resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord. Through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith among all the Gentiles in behalf of His name. Among whom you also are the Called of Jesus Christ. Romans 1:1-6 (NASB)

Paul who had been so zealous a Jew in persecuting church, understood full well that all his prior training and all he now was, all came about by the grace of God. He was not seeking to know Jesus. Very content in his own ways, believing himself righteous, he missed the truth as well. That is until one day Jesus appeared to him, and he could no longer go against the one true Savior. All his knowledge of Old Testament Scripture suddenly came to light. He now could see how everything pointed to Christ. And that now Jesus Christ was the fulfillment of every mystery and every promise. He was the hope we had all looked for.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.” Romans 1:16-17 (NASB)

That was the verse that changed Martin Luther’s life forever.

Transformed to Overflow with Hope

Martin Luther was heavily obsessed with the depths of his own sin. It is said he would go into the confessional and while there he would confess of every thought he had. Often the priest would finally tell him to go home. As he confessed, he realized even his thoughts then were sinful. Oppressed with the realization that no one could truly live righteously, he lived tormented. Then one day while reading he noticed. It was not a righteousness that he could obtain. It was the righteousness of God which could only occur through faith. No righteousness of man was good enough. It was God’s righteousness imputed upon man. Not what man could do himself.

This is the overflow of hope that Paul presents so clearly in Romans.

But before he can present the solution, Paul makes certain they understand the problem of sin. It is more than a choice one makes one day. It is indeed a chain that enslaves the heart and soul of mankind. A chain that cannot be removed by one’s own efforts. Indeed, despite God’s common grace displaying His glory throughout creation, humanity chose to worship the creation rather than the creator. Even the consequences of their sinful nature being so evident as to their evil nature, they marched forward. And the very wrath of God against the sin became evident. Not because he desired wrath. Rather He while desiring righteousness and joy for His creation, recognized the destruction of their sin. He knew the sin would destroy all that was good as they drew farther from Him. Thus, we see clearly the wrath of God against sin.

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. Romans 1:18-19 (NASB)

All of Humanity and Creation Doomed Without A Savior

For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools Romans 1: 20-21

And this is the fate and result.

filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them. Romans 1:29-32 (NASB)

So that none are righteous no not one. No hope in sight but God presented a plan of salvation. A plan to overflow with hope for all who would believe. That plan first presented to Adam and Eve now was clearly presented in Jesus Christ.

Overflow with Hope because of Justification

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:1-2 (NASB).

And in this justification, we have hope even amid trials, persecutions, and storms. How?

hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:5 (NASB)

But how can we be justified if we are so lost and chained by sin?

You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. …God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:6,8 NIV

Therefore, we overflow with hope.

Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation. Romans 5:9-10 (NIV)

Furthermore, we overflow with joy because of Redemption

Redemption means we are set free from the slavery we once were enslaved to. No longer must I yield to the chains that held me. Why?

Therefore, there is now no condemnation at all for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. Romans 8:1-4 (NASB)

But how do I walk according to the Spirit?

However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him. If Christ is in you, though the body is dead because of sin, yet the spirit is alive because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you. Romans 8: 9-11 (NASB)

So, how can I not overflow with joy? All who have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior has the indwelling Holy Spirit. Therefore, I have no chance to ever be condemned again. I have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. The chains are gone. Sin has no power over me. Hallalujah! Amen!

We Overflow with Hope because of Sanctification

Being transformed into the Saint I have already been declared to be. Everything that happens in my life is the Holy Spirit working toward that goal so that one day, I will look like my Savior. I will shine forth His glory. For now I am clothed in His righteousness—then I will be righteous.

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters; and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified. Romans 8:28-30 (NASB)

And if that were not enough to overflow with joy

He has also promised us His unwavering, steadfast love that we cannot be separated from.

For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39 (NASB)

He has also given us unity that we may have the power of many with us.

just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. Romans 12: 4-5 (NIV)

He gave us varying gifts, so that we could join hands to be the best version of Christ to the world. No one is to do it all alone. We are a community of believers.

We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. Romans 12: 6-8 (NIV).

Furthermore, God Gave Governance

God established Kings and Kingdoms. He oversees the good and the bad. Yet, He established governance so there would not be total chaos. Can you imagine were there no laws or authorities in this world? God will accomplish all that He has planned. We should never worry about that. Therefore, we overflow with hope in a world gone mad.

Every person is to be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore, whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; Romans 13: 1-2 (NASB)

Certainly, we do not disobey God. If the law says I go to prison for praying, then I must surrender peacefully to the authorities and go to prison. Even in this God reigns supreme.

How many people have been blessed by Pilgrim’s Progress? John Bunyan was in prison for refusing to stop preaching the gospel. His wife and children were at home.

Therefore, We Overflow with Hope because we Have God’s Hope in Us

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 (NASB)

Therefore because of that, let us

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Romans 12: 1-2 (NKJV)

understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light…., clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh. Romans 13:11,12,14 (NIV)

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

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If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Transforming Work Of The Holy Spirit From Glory To Glory. How?

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Transforming Work Of The Holy Spirit From Glory To Glory. How?

November 24, 2024 Effie Barba Leave a comment

As we look at the book of Corinthians, we see the very heart and soul of Paul. He dearly loved the Corinthian Church where he had spent 18 months teaching them. He also worked as a tent maker staying with Aquila and Priscilla. His first trip to Corinth was at the end of his second missionary journey right after having presented the Gospel boldly to little avail in Athens. His journey had been met with many trials along the way with great dissidence in each city forcing his departure. Remember even in the first journey, near Lystra, he was stoned and left for dead. Weary and perhaps disheartened, he arrived in Corinth. Yet, he would teach them of the transforming work of the Holy Spirit from Glory to Glory.

His heart was on display. He clearly spoke of his own frailty and inability to do God’s work apart from the power of the Holy Spirit transforming him and all who would believe. Corinth was known as a port city thriving with immorality. Yet, Paul had a very special love for Corinth. He saw them as his children in Christ.

I do not write these things to shame you, but to admonish you as my beloved children. For if you were to have countless tutors in Christ, yet you would not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel. Therefore, I urge you, be imitators of me. For this reason, I have sent to you Timothy, who is my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, and he will remind you of my ways which are in Christ, just as I teach everywhere in every church. 1 Corinthians 4:14-17 NASB

Transforming Work of the Holy Spirit

Paul wrote them concerned for their divisions and strife initially. But also their liberality. The people were more concerned about which “sect” they were of than the truth of the gospel message. Some proclaimed themselves followers of Apollo, others Peter, some Paul and others proclaimed they follow only Christ. Yet even those did so with an air of arrogance and not one of true humility serving Christ.

when I came to you, brothers and sisters, I did not come as someone superior in speaking ability or wisdom, as I proclaimed to you the testimony of God. For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified. I also was with you in weakness and fear, and in great trembling, and my message and my preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith would not rest on the wisdom of mankind, but on the power of God. 1 Corinthians 2: 1-5 NASB

Nothing but the Work of the Holy Spirit

He continually pointed them back to the transforming work of the Holy Spirit. Only the Holy Spirit can transform a heart from glory to glory that we might understand the truth of the gospel. The Holy Spirit instills a love and devotion within our heart to know and follow Jesus Christ.

Yet we do speak wisdom among those who are mature; a wisdom, however, not of this age nor of the rulers of this age, who are passing away; but we speak God’s wisdom in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God predestined before the ages to our glory;the wisdom which none of the rulers of this age has understood; for if they had understood it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory; but just as it is written:

“Things which eye has not seen and ear has not heard,

And which have not entered the human heart,

All that God has prepared for those who love Him.” I Corinthians 2:6-9 NASB

Only through the Transformation of the Holy Spirit is True Wisdom

Only through the transformation of the Holy Spirit from Glory to Glory has Paul or Apollos or Peter been able to teach them anything of the gospel of Christ. It is the wisdom of God, not man that is necessary to grow. Christ is the wisdom of God made manifest.

For to us God revealed them through the Spirit; for the Spirit searches all things, even the depths of God. For who among people knows the thoughts of a person except the spirit of the person that is in him? So also the thoughts of God no one knows, except the Spirit of God. Now we have not received the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may know the things freely given to us by God. We also speak these things, not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, combining spiritual thoughts with spiritual words. 1 Corinthians 2:10-13 NASB

Beware of false teachers, for they do not know God. But we (all who know Jesus as Savior have the Holy Spirit within us. Therefore, we may come to have the mind of Christ for Christ is the wisdom of God.

But a natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned. But the one who is spiritual discerns all things, yet he himself is discerned by no one. For who has known the mind of the Lord, that he will instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ. I Corinthians 2: 14-16 (NASB)

Yet the transforming work of the Holy Spirit requires growth

That growth may be very gradual, still it will come. How do you know if you are growing?

And I, brothers and sisters, could not speak to you as spiritual people, but only as fleshly, as to infants in Christ. I gave you milk to drink, not solid food; for you were not yet able to consume it. But even now you are not yet able, for you are still fleshly. For since there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not fleshly, and are you not walking like ordinary people? I Corinthians 3:1-3 (NASB)

Actions Showing the Lack of Maturity

Jealousy, envy, and anger are signs we need a little more work in that field. The Holy Spirit will transform us, sometimes despite us kicking and screaming all the way, like an unruly child. But He will transform all who belong to Christ. Of that I am certain. Therefore, it is wiser to study the word, spend time in prior, and be willing to be molded.

According to the grace of God which was given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building on it. But each person must be careful how he builds on it. For no one can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw, each one’s work will become evident; for the day will show it because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each one’s work. If anyone’s work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward. If anyone’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet only so as through fire. I Corinthians 3:10-15 (NASB)

Over the years, God has sent different teachers and different circumstances to help me to grow each step of the way. For every stage of life.

There were pastors sent for specific times and circumstances.

The Holy Spirit Indwells You; therefore you are a Temple

Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If anyone destroys the temple of God, God will destroy that person; for the temple of God is holy, and that is what you are. I Corinthians 3: 16-17 NASB

As a temple you are being transformed by the Holy Spirit into a vessel of honor.

Take care that no one deceives himself. If anyone among you thinks that he is wise in this age, he must become foolish, so that he may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in the sight of God. For it is written: “He is the one who catches the wise by their craftiness”; and again, “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are useless.” So then, no one is to be boasting in people. For all things belong to you, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas, or the world or life or death, or things present or things to come; all things belong to you, and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God. I Corinthians 3:18-23 NASB

No teacher is higher or to be esteemed. They are the servants of God. Yet, we see in Corinthians Paul’s heart and his brokenness over the struggles. He so wished their maturity; yet understood it was not his work. The transforming work of the Holy Spirit from glory to glory would complete the work in them. All he could really do was nurture them, guide them and even that was the Holy Spirit working through him. Yet, it is easy to note in these two letters a sadness of tone. A sorrow and perhaps fatigue. I find that comforting that even Paul at times felt himself so inadequate.

Many things to address

In addition to the problem of divisions, there was a problem of sin tolerance. A parishioner was sleeping with his father’s wife and they said nothing to him. Much like some of the churches today. In the name of tolerance and love, never speak out against sin. Yet, once they did address it, there was another case by II Corinthians when they became so intolerant, the refused to accept in someone after they repented. Furthermore, they then were becoming ritualistic. From one extreme to the other.

Yet the truth was that the transforming work of the Holy Spirit shone brightly as to the truth of the gospel. It was not the work of Paul that needed glorification, yet the labor had not been in vain. The change in their lives commended the fact he brought them the true gospel

You are our letter, written in our hearts, known and read by all people, revealing yourselves, that you are a letter of Christ, delivered by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts. II Corinthians 3:2-3 NASB

The Power is of Christ, not the teacher.

Such is the confidence we have toward God through Christ. Not that we are adequate in ourselves so as to consider anything as having come from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God, who also made us adequate as servants of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. II Corinthians 3: 4-6

Faith not Works

But if the ministry of death, engraved in letters on stones, came with glory so that the sons of Israel could not look intently at the face of Moses because of the glory of his face, fading as it was, how will the ministry of the Spirit fail to be even more with glory? II Corinthians 3: 7-8 NASB

When Moses went up on the mountain to receive the stones and came back down his face shown with such glory that he had to wear a veil. In the temple there was a veil so that the “glory of God” did not shine so bright as to kill all those there. Only the high priest could go behind the veil. That veil was torn in two when Christ completed the work of redemption on the cross.

But to this day whenever Moses is read, a veil lies over their hearts; but whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. II Corinthians 3:15-16 NASB

The Law Cannot Transform a Heart

The law cannot transform a heart. The veil remains over the heart and eyes unless they turn to the Lord. For all who know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior the veil is removed and we can see His glory. Albeit, through a glass dimly; but it is that glimpse of His glory that transforms us to look more like Him.

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. But we all, with unveiled faces, looking as in a mirror at the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit. II Corinthians 3:17-18 NASB

WHISPERS OF LOVE

Whispers of Love flowing all through my life

Even in moments of sorrow or strife

Whispers that came in the dark of the night

Promising Joy with the new morning light

Whispers of hope for the bleakest of day

“Love will find strength and will find its way”

Into your heart and grow from within

Until it flows forth rejoicing and then

Suddenly out of those long and sad years

Love does spring forth out of fountains of tears

Into rivers of joy bursting forth then to see

That love had been there abiding in me

Oh, thank you dear Lord for teaching me love

As Your spirit descends with the wings of a dove

And gathered the pieces of this shattered heart

To weave it with steel, Your glory impart

A Picture so rare, its beauty unmasked

A portrait of you made in brilliant stained glass

Your love had been there inside of me

Even when I had been too blind to see

Whispers of love, it was You all along

Holding me close, I am your love song!

Effie Darlene Barba