The nation stood divided.  There were the northern 10 tribes of Israel and then there was Judah comprised of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin.  Beyond their battling against each other, there were the nations surrounding them.  God had been their protection and their source for everything; but, they chose to worship many idols.  With foreheads of flint, they thought they could both be of this world and do just enough to appease God.  Yet, along the way God would send His prophets to warn them.  These men were willing to sacrifice everything this world could offer to become truly radical for God’s Glory.  Ezekiel was such a man, as we will find in this study.  His faith stood amid trials we could hardly imagine enduring.  In such a time as this, we too need to become truly radical for God’s Glory.

Israel had already fallen to the Assyrians in 722 BC.  This had been after many years of God’s mercy and patience.  Yet, despite the word of God going forth to them, the people chose earthly pleasures and pagan worship over the one true God.  They maintained only a semblance of worship for God, mixed with everything else.  Yet, their hearts were cold.  They failed to see God’s Glory as something to seek after.  Nor did they remember His words.  One might think the remaining tribes would seek God after seeing the fate of their brothers from the north; but alas they did not.  God sent them Isaiah to tell them of His Son.  Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah all warned them of the impending judgement and wrath of God.   Still, no one listened.

Despite several God-fearing Kings leading the people back to God, they rebuilt the Pagan altars defiling the name of God

JUDAH- a nation teetering on the edge

As noted above the northern tribes were overtaken by the Assyrian Army, who would have taken Judah as well were it not for the repentance of King Manesseh.  How great is God’s Mercy!   “The LORD is slow to anger and abounding in loyal love, forgiving iniquity and transgression, but by no means clearing the guilty (those who do not turn from their wicked ways)” Numbers 14:18 NET.  King Manesseh was very evil until he was taken captive. Then after God restored him to his throne, he tore down all the pagan altars.  Even the one where he had sacrificed his own son to Molech.  When his son Amon took the throne, evil once more reigned throughout the land.  The pagan altars restored, only to be destroyed again by his grandson Josiah.

Josiah was the last God-fearing, good King of Judah before the ultimate overthrow by the Babylonian empire.  Zephaniah was the prophet during these times who foretold of the destruction of Jerusalem for its evil deeds and idolatrous worship.  Yet, he calls to the people to seek God, declaring that from this remnant, God would restore a people to Himself.  He points out that all the wrath and destruction against Judah and all the other evil nations was for one purpose—to purify the nations and that they might know the Lord. Then, for those who seek God, there was this promise.

 “ ¹⁷ The Lord your God is in your midst;
he is a warrior who can deliver.
He takes great delight in you;^[av]
he renews you by his love;^[aw]
he shouts for joy over you.”^[  Zephaniah 3

Jeremiah/Daniel/Ezekiel: Called to declare God’s Glory

Jeremiah also was God’s prophet inside of Jerusalem beginning in the years of King Josiah and all the way to the Babylonian overthrowing of Jerusalem. He gave up everything for the Lord and suffered great torture by the evil Kings and evil prophets of his day.  He remained faithful as God’s weeping prophet truly radical for God’s Glory to be known. 

Daniel was taken captive in 605 BC by Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon as a warning to Judah not to align with Egypt. 

There was a second siege of people from Jerusalem in 597BC which included Ezekiel who was taken into the countryside just south of Babylon to work the fields. 

Jeremiah did remain in Jerusalem until nearly the end when Nebuchadnezzar destroyed all of Jerusalem, burning it to the ground in 586 BC.

Now after setting the stage, let us study Ezekiel.  Do note the similarities to what we face even today in our own nation.  Ask yourself what it would take to become truly radical for God’s Glory.

Ezekiel—Truly Radical for God’s Glory

We begin in Ezekiel 1 with a detailed description as to the time and place where Ezekiel was first called into ministry.  After 5 years of captivity, as he turned 30 years old, God called him.  Being a priest, it was customary that they assume their ordained role as priest at age 30 (just as did Jesus over nearly 600 years later).  He was given a vision of God that made him truly radical for God’s Glory. 

1 In the thirtieth year,^[a] on the fifth day of the fourth month, while I was among the exiles^[b] at the Kebar River,^[c] the heavens opened^[d] and I saw a divine vision.^[e] 2 (On the fifth day of the month—it was the fifth year of King Jehoiachin’s exile— ³ the Lord’s message came to the priest Ezekiel^[f] the son of Buzi,^[g] at the Kebar River in the land of the Babylonians.^[h] The hand^[i] of the Lord came on him there.)

Do you remember the moment God placed His hand on you? Oh you might say, if the Lord’s message came to me, then I would seek to do His will.  But is not His message there waiting for you every morning? You have His written word that will reveal to you all you need to know of Him. All you must do is open it to see God’s Glory revealed to you. Or look around you. The sky, the earth, and the stars at night all pointing toward His Glory. All of creation declares His glory.

Ezekiel 1: 4-24: Glory and Majesty on Display

In detail, Ezekiel attempts to describe the indescribable.  As he depicts the cherubim riding on the storm into our world, he presents them as large creatures with 4 wings, with hands, with fire and lightning coming from their bodies.

These are the cherubim of God who surround His throne and lead his chariot.  Ezekiel’s vision closely resembles that of John’s vision in Revelation 4.  Nothing like the chubby babies we draw pictures of.  Rather they are fierce and majestic creatures doing the will of God.  The spirit leads them.  But note how they are led. 

All that God has Planned Will be Accomplished

¹⁵ Then I looked,^[ad] and I saw one wheel^[ae] on the ground^[af] beside each of the four beings. ¹⁶ The appearance of the wheels and their construction^[ag] was like gleaming jasper,^[ah] and all four wheels looked alike. Their structure was like a wheel within a wheel.^[ai] 17 When they moved they would go in any of the four directions they faced without turning as they moved. ¹⁸ Their rims were high and awesome,^[aj] and the rims of all four wheels were full of eyes all around…

²⁰ Wherever the spirit^[ak] would go, they would go,^[al] and the wheels would rise up beside them because the spirit^[am] of the living being was in the wheel. ²¹ When the living beings moved, the wheels moved, and when they stopped moving, the wheels stopped.^[an] When they rose up from the ground, the wheels rose up from the ground; the wheels rose up beside them because the spirit of the living being was in the wheel.

The Wheels represented the Holy Spirit.  God’s omniscience always sees everything in every direction.  He moves ever forward to accomplish all that He has planned.  Nothing can thwart His plan.  On this truth, we can be certain. 

²² Over the heads of the living beings was something like a platform,^[ao] glittering awesomely like ice,^[ap] stretched out over their heads. ²³ Under the platform their wings were stretched out, each toward the other. Each of the beings also had two wings covering^[aq] its body. ²⁴ When they moved, I heard the sound of their wings—it was like the sound of rushing waters, or the voice of the Sovereign One,^[ar] or the tumult^[as] of an army. When they stood still, they lowered their wings.

Jesus On His Throne-God’s Glory revealed

²⁵ Then there was a voice from above the platform over their heads when they stood still.^[at] 26 Above the platform over their heads was something like a sapphire shaped like a throne. High above on the throne was a form that appeared to be a man. ²⁷ I saw an amber glow^[au] like a fire enclosed all around^[av] from his waist up. From his waist down I saw something that looked like fire. There was a brilliant light around it, ²⁸ like the appearance of a rainbow in the clouds after the rain.^[aw] This was the appearance of the surrounding brilliant light; it looked like the glory of the Lord. When I saw^[ax] it, I threw myself face down, and I heard a voice speaking.

Some would say, if I truly saw Jesus in a vision then I could be radical for God’s glory.  But is that true?  All one must do is look around yourself and see His Glory.  He that has eyes let him see.  Or look at all He has done for you?   Therein you will see His Glory like Isaiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, and John.  You will see Him on His throne High and lifted up.  When we spiritually see His glory, we too will fall before His majesty.  Then we too will become radical for God’s Glory, declaring it to everyone we meet.  Unashamed by the gospel message. 

Furthermore, God equips us with everything we need, if only we ask Him to. 

CONCLUDING THOUGHTS- Radical for God’s Glory

Sadly, our world today reveals the same as in the days, of Noah, Sodom, and Ezekiel. Destruction, division, wars, idolatry, chaos, and violence surround us every day. This world is broken due to sin. Humanity is filled with vile selfish pride, regardless of the cost. We worship the Sun, the moon, money, sex, and power. All around us are false teachers and prophets, bidding us to believe the lies for truth. Yet, there is God. His plan moves forward in time. Soon, He will call an end to this age. Where will you stand?

Do you choose Him? He offers salvation at no cost to you, for He paid the price. The only thing is you must come to Him and seek Him, accepting His gift. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. There is no other way to God. Have we not already learned that by now? So, the question is what will you do with Jesus? And what will it take for you to become radical for His glory. He has called you to be the messenger to the world. What are you willing to do for Him and to honor His Glory?

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

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to 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

God’s Glory Revealed in Poetry

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Can A Useless Deserter Become the One Needed and Beloved?

DISCLOSURES

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
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.

Credits

New English Translation (NET)

NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

New King James Version (NKJV)

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Photo by Sebastien Gabriel on Unsplash

            Onesimus ran from Philemon’s house in search of freedom.  As he ran, he stole from his former master.  For you see, he thought he could find freedom his own way.  He went to the great city of Rome, where many seeking to make a way for themselves had gone.  But that you see became part of the problem.  Was he homeless, downtrodden like the prodigal son?  Or had he heard his Master Philemon speak of the apostle, so he left in search of him?  Whichever the case we are not told apart from his being a useless deserter who became the one needed and beloved.  But how did that happen? 

        Philemon had come to know Christ as his Savior.  Indeed, it was his house where the Colossian church met for worship and praise.  It had been through the preaching of Paul in Ephesus that this church was birthed.  Perhaps Philemon visited Paul when he preached at Ephesus.   Again, we are not told the details of Philemon’s conversion, except that Paul did remind him of his indebtedness to Paul. A debt more precious which had been wiped clean.  As Paul wrote:   (not to mention to you that you ^[g]owe to me even your own self as well). Philemon 1:19.

A Useless Deserter

        ¹⁰ I am appealing^[x] to you concerning my child, whose spiritual father I have become^[y] during my imprisonment,^[z] that is, Onesimus, ¹¹ who was formerly useless to you, but is now useful to you^[aa] and me. ¹² I have sent^[ab] him (who is my very heart)^[ac] back to you. ¹³ I wanted to keep him with me so that he could serve me in your place^[ad] during^[ae] my imprisonment for the sake of the gospel.^{[af] 14} However,^[ag] without your consent I did not want to do anything, so that your good deed would not be out of compulsion, but from your own willingness.

        So, Paul recognized Onesimus had been useless before.  Probably Onesimus told Paul of all the stories of his life before.  How else would Paul have known of his uselessness?  Or maybe Philemon had spoken of him and wandered how as an owner could a Christian be righteousness in his treatment of slaves?  Releasing them all would leave many without homes or food.  However, it was that Paul knew of Onesimus as a useless deserter, he now appealed for Onesimus.  Not based on who he was formerly, but who he became. 

        Paul refers to him as his child.  Onesimus had found Jesus Christ, and that made all the difference in the world as to who Onesimus is.  He who was a useless deserter, now was someone needed and beloved. 

From Useless Deserter to Needed and Beloved

        We see from Paul’s introduction that he loves Philemon a lot, recognizing his heart of love. 

⁴ I thank my God always, making mention of you in my prayers, ⁵ because I hear of your love and of your faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus and toward all the ^[d]saints (God’s people). ⁶ I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective and powerful because of your accurate knowledge of every good thing which is ours in Christ. ⁷ For I have had great joy and comfort and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints (God’s people) have been refreshed through you, my brother Philemon (AMP).

Paul had no doubt, but that Philemon would be gracious and forgiving toward Onesimus; but he wrote the letter to Philemon anyway.  Perhaps this was also his way of acknowledging the hurt Onesimus had caused Philemon.  A hurt that Philemon would need to overcome to forgive Onesimus. 

Transformed by grace, Onesimus became an incredible servant of Christ Jesus.  As such he poured himself out in service to Paul as well.  Paul could have just kept him there hidden; but he knew that would never do.  What was broken must be healed first. 

Onesimus had to return to the scene of his crime and seek forgiveness of Philemon.  Furthermore, Philemon needed to forgive him from his own heart of grace, not because Paul asked him to. 

Words of Wisdom, learned by grace.

Paul, gently reminded Philemon of his own human chains.  He introduced himself as “¹ Paul, a prisoner [for the sake] of Christ Jesus (the Messiah, the Anointed)” Philemon 1 (AMP).

He then later wrote “⁸ Therefore [based on these facts], though I have enough confidence in Christ to order you to do what is appropriate, ⁹ yet for love’s sake I prefer to appeal to you—since I am such a person as Paul, an old man, and now also a prisoner [for the sake] of Christ Jesus—

In other words, I know your heart and I could have just sent Onesimus back.  You would have done the right thing.  Yet, I would rather appeal to you one heart to another.  I do not command you as an apostle, rather I plead as an old man, weathered by life, and imprisoned for Christ with chains about my feet. 

You, before Christ was chained to a life devoid of God.  Remember from whence Christ saved you.  Then and only then can you truly forgive and love because He first loved us.  He forgave us of more than we could ever imagine.  On a rugged cross, He died that I might live.  My freedom He bought and that is what I must remember. 

So as Onesimus returned as a servant to Philemon, he also returned as a spiritual brother in Christ.  That transforms their relationship completely. 

Concluding thoughts:

Whom do you need to forgive?  What relationship needs to be rebuilt?  What about at work?  Do you perform your job always to its maximum ability, “heartily as unto the Lord?” 

Do you ever feel useless? Where ever you might be, or whatever it is you might be feeling, know this God is the ultimate transformer of your life. He is all that you need.

When Satan whispers in your ears that you are a useless deserter with no purpose, remember this. “There is therefore no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:1. Then Romans 8 ends with the truth. “Nothing can separate from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus.” Everything in between is the Holy Spirit transforming us into the image of Christ. Every tear, every difficulty, every sorrow is allowed by His mighty hand only as He knows it can be used to transform you into the image of Christ. That is why Romans 8:28 says, “All things work together for Good to those who love Him.”

We bow humbly before His mighty hand of Grace, knowing He is our joy, our hope. He makes us His Beloved child upon whom He bestows His Glory, redeeming us to Himself.

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

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to 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

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoy poetry perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

Previous

How Does One Really Speak Always with Grace, Seasoned with Salt?

DISCLOSURES

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
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.

Credits

New English Translation (NET)

NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

New King James Version (NKJV)

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Photo from Goodsalt.com

        As we reach the close in our study in Colossians, we are given this admonition. 
“⁵ Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time.  ⁶ Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.” (Colossians 4; NKJV). But how do we do this?  What does it mean to redeem the time?  Or what does saltiness have to do with our speech?  So, let us break this down. 

        As is quite typical of the letters from Paul, it began with doctrine.  Then, because of all the truths gleaned, how are our lives to be transformed. 

        In chapter one, Paul began with an introduction and a prayer.   Within the prayers to each church addressed, Paul gave them sound doctrine and a request of the Holy Spirit to provide them with what they need.  The Colossian church was being attacked by false doctrine.  Those who added their own flavor to the faith.  They tried to say, Christ alone was not enough to save.  The more rituals they added brought along idolatrous worship of angels and self.  After all, your penance and sacrifice were what saved you, or so they falsely taught.  For that reason, Paul prayed earnestly for the true believers to be filled with wisdom. 

 We “do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; ¹⁰ that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God (Colossians 1; NKJV).   

God’s Work of Grace

       
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God Ephesians 2:8

Knowing this, changes everything.  It changes our response.  More than that, it changes our heart.  When we understand this truth, we humbly respond.  If we truly understand the price, He paid that we might be a part of His eternal story of redemption, then we desire to please Him.  Only then can we begin to love Him and recognize how worthy He is of our praise.  We also, know that we can trust Him with every detail of our life.  Why?  Because from before creation, He saw you and me.  He loved us enough to endure all the years of sin, destruction, ridicule, and human arrogance, so that we might be saved. 

That is what Paul urged the church to understand.  We are indebted to Him always.  Furthermore, this world is but a moment in time, a blink of the eye compared to eternity.  Therefore, we can endure all things here, in the power of His strength.  Knowing that one day we will share in His glory in His presence.    

¹⁸ For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us (Romans 8 NKJV).

The Holy Spirits Role in Grace, Seasoned by Salt

It is the Holy Spirit that indwells us, empowers us and is our spiritual life once we are born again into newness of life.  Formerly, our spirits were dead to God.  But that old flesh was buried with Christ, and we walk in newness of life. 

 ⁴ Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.  Romans 6

Only as we learn to trust in this truth, lean in to His Power within us by each moment declaring the truth. “I no longer am a slave to sin. Your will Lord is what I choose, not my own.”

Grace, seasoned with Salt

What does all that have to do with our speech being grace seasoned with Salt?  Well precisely think of what we are talking about.  Salt has a cleansing and purifying character, and it also creates thirst.  We are to speak to those who do not know Christ by letting our speech be filled with grace, kindness, and goodness as is the Holy Spirit.  Yet, it cannot be wishy, washy regarding truth.  It is to be such that we might lead others to thirst for Christ.  So, that our speech would cause them to desire to drink from the fountain of living water. 

The scriptures preceding this recurrently speak of prayer with thanksgiving.  Furthermore, there was a listing of apparel we were to adorn.  You see if we are in these earthly bodies, we keep in our closet those old dirty rags that we use to wear, just in case they might fit again.  So, each morning and in fact, throughout the day, we choose which we are wearing.  The new garment of righteousness, or our old filthy rags.  We either remember the truth that the Holy Spirit indwells us with all that we need (Christ in us, the hope of Glory) or we ignore this truth and rely on ourselves.

Essentially, our sins died with Christ, to be risen again into new life the minute we accept Him.  ¹⁴ For the love of Christ compels us…(since) One died for all, then all (that are in Him) died (to sin). ¹⁵He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again…¹⁷ Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new   2Corinthians 5.

Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt.

Perhaps if we consider some examples of speech being grace, seasoned with salt.   While Jesus was teaching, large crowds surrounded Him.  He spoke with authority, yet gentleness.  As He spoke He said, “

³³ So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple. ³⁴ “Salt is good, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? ³⁵ It is of no use either for the soil or for the manure pile. It is thrown away. He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”(Luke 14).   Amazingly, those who had the most financially to give up began to thirst for Him as we find the next verse to say, “Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. ² And the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” (Luke 15)  Instead of rebuking the Pharisees, He then told parables.  “The lost sheep, the widow’s mite and the Prodigal Son.” 

Hence His speech was that of grace, seasoned with salt.  He held fast to the truth, gave them what was needed to heal their sores, and caused some to thirst for more. 

Redeeming the time:

Paul gave us a perfect example of redeeming the time while your speech be that of grace, seasoned with salt.  He was jailed, falsely accused.  Then at midnight, he began leading a worship service.  Certainly, he was not in an ideal situation.  Yet, he realized that if he were sentenced or killed the next morning, now was the only time he had to testify to those in prison and the guards.  “About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them” (Acts 16:25).  Sometimes redeeming the time, is to see opportunity even in a moment of difficulty

Concluding Thoughts: Grace Seasoned with Salt

So, if you find yourself in an unexpected situation, consider the opportunity you are being given to redeem the times.  Perhaps, someone will cross your path who needs to know Christ.  Or sometimes, in your darkest hour about midnight, you burst into song or praise about Jesus.  You never know who is watching or listening.  When life is tough and people see you standing firm and strong in God’s love, you never know whom you have caused to be drawn to Him.  Or when grace compels you to help someone, while you yourself are in difficult times; well, you are allowing your speech to be grace, seasoned with salt. 

So, let us lay aside all of self that the Holy Spirit might shine through us with grace seasoned with salt.

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

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to 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

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoy poetry perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

Previous

One Mystery Found with Abounding Riches:  Christ in You, The Hope of Glory

DISCLOSURES

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
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.

Credits

New English Translation (NET)

NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

New King James Version (NKJV)

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Photo by Francesco Alberti on Unsplash

            There were many mysteries hidden throughout the Old Testament.  Although alluded to, God had not revealed all the secrets held close to His heart.  As is the case still today.  We, in this broken world could not fully comprehend and would try to thwart His will.  Yet, step by step He has throughout the ages revealed that which was needed.  Deuteronomy 29:29 tells us: “The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children forever.”  One mystery found in the gospel message, “Christ in you, the hope of Glory” (Colossians 1:27).  How rich a truth that is! Abounding in riches and power to every saint—every person who bows before Him, knowing that Jesus Christ is the only way, the truth, and the life. 

Colossians 1 (NET): ²⁶ that is, the mystery that has been kept hidden from ages and generations but has now been revealed to his saints. ²⁷ God wanted to make known to them the glorious^[au] riches of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

Many believe the hope of glory is the hope of heaven one day. That is true.  But Christ in you, the hope of glory I dare say is so much more.  The abounding riches found in this mystery is almost more than we can comprehend.  Therefore, my hope is that as we explore this, we will find a new fortitude, strength, and abiding joy to live a life worthy of Christ.  That each of us can say that with this one mystery found we have found abounding riches greater than we could ever imagine.

The Church of Colossae: The need for this One mystery found

Infiltrating the Colossian church were many heretics.   These false teachers were infiltrating with such messages as Christ wasn’t really God.  Certainly, He could not be a Savior or help one live a righteous life, some would teach.  Then others taught Angel worship.  Some taught works as a means of salvation. As though humans had not already failed miserably at trying to keep the law.  Sound familiar?  Do we not face the same critics and heretics?  Furthermore, we within the church even face those who try to say, Christ saves us; but this life we must live in our power. Or some would say, we cannot ever hope to display His glory until we are in heaven one day, so why try? 

Yet, as we look much deeper into this mystery found in the gospel message, we discover all of that is false.  How often throughout his letters, Paul reminds us that our victory lies in this mystery found:  Christ in you, the hope of glory.  You might say, well that is fine and good; but it is the glory of one day, far away when I stand before Him in my transformed body.  Then, yes, the victory is mine.  However, are we to live defeated until then?  Jesus said otherwise.

One Mystery found with abounding riches now 

Jesus prayed, “²⁰ “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who ^[j]will believe in Me through their word. ²¹ That they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You. That they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. ²² And the glory which You gave Me I have given them. That they may be one just as We are one: ²³ I in them, and You in Me. That they may be made perfect in one. That the world may know that You have sent Me. And have loved them as You have loved Me (John 17 NKJV)

Did you get that?  This is here and this is now.  “And the glory which You gave Me, I have given them.”  Have given, not will give one day.  He goes on. “That they may be one just as We are one. I in them and You in Me. That they may be made perfect in one” And what are the results of that?  “And that the world may know that You have sent Me and have loved them as You have loved Me” If that is only one day in heaven, how would the world see the results?

Perhaps, it may seem easier to focus on our imperfections and just say, “One day I will look like Christ, but not today.”  I am guilty of the same; however, am coming to realize that I have underestimated the truth “Christ in me”.  After all, if the power that raised Jesus from the dead empowers me. What am I doing not believing myself to be able to stand victoriously in Him. By allowing Him to do what I cannot do. 

What is part of this mystery found in Christ?

Look further, you will see that beyond the power inside we also have all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge inside us. 

“hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, ^[b]both of the Father and of Christ, ³ in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge”  Colossians 2:2-3 (NKJV)

Therefore, at the point of salvation, we have the Holy Spirit enter us to fill us with all the power, wisdom, knowledge, and righteousness of Christ.  Then why do we live so defeated? 

Ephesians 2 (NKJV): ⁴ But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, ⁵ even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved). ⁶ And raised us up together, made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus. ⁷ That in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. ⁸ For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God. ⁹ Not of works, lest anyone should boast. ¹⁰ For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

Since all of this is true, how to I release that power in my life?  And what stands in the way of that power being released?

Steps to Releasing the Power of Christ in You

1.  Accept by faith this truth.  Unless you believe that Jesus has the power to change your life here and now, you will fail.  Jesus told the disciples, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” (Matthew 8:26). 
2. Reckon yourself dead to sin.  This is a step of faith, plus it requires recognizing one’s pride that stands in the way of this.  “¹⁰ For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God. ¹¹ Likewise you also, ^[a]reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord. ¹² Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, that you should obey it in its lusts” (Romans 6:10-12 NKJV).
3. Take time to study God’s word day and night.  Blessed is the man
   Who walks not in the counsel of the ^[a]ungodly,
   Nor stands in the path of sinners,
   Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
   ² But his delight is in the law of the Lord,
   And in His law he ^[b]meditates day and night (Psalm 1 NKJV).
4. Also, noted above, be careful who you seek counsel from “Walks not in the Counsel of the ungodly (Psalm 1)

plus

1. Do not get sucked into agreeing with those who are angry and disgruntled. (Pray unceasingly when you need to be the light into the darkness. so you don’t fall into the same darkness with them).  (Psalm 1)
2. Be quick to repent from sin.  (⁸ If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. ⁹ If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.)  I John 1:8-10
3. Rely on the Power of the Holy Spirit and trust His guidance.  (Romans 8:4 ³ For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemned sin in the flesh, ⁴ that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. ⁵ For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit).

Furthermore,

I might recommend that you read regularly Psalm 1, Romans 8 and Ephesians until they penetrate your soul.

And note:  one way to tell where you are at any given moment check your feelings against those that are present when fully in the spirit because the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Galatians 5:22-23.  When these are absent, it is time to pause a moment, pray and sing a song of praise and worship. 

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

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to 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

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoy poetry perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

Previous

Jesus Christ Plus Nothing Equals Absolutely Everything Good. How?

DISCLOSURES

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
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.

Credits

New English Translation (NET)

NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

New King James Version (NKJV)

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Picture licensed for use from Goodsalt.com

            In a world so filled with philosophers, religions, and man’s ideology, how can we remember that Jesus Christ plus nothing equals absolutely everything good? What can that even possibly mean?  Our human thought always wants to believe that we can earn God’s favor.  It goes against the human desire for Self-Actualization.  Therefore, so often human philosophers and religious leaders desire to list all the “things we must do to please Him.”  Otherwise, you remain lost and forsaken by God.   Many speak of their moral superiority in how they see social injustice or purport that they have the higher position with God, knowing what is best for the world overall.  Yet, ignoring the truth of the gospel message.  Professing their humility while displaying their arrogance and pride.  Some pretending as though they have heard a new message from God that transforms the Words already written.

            That was some of what was happening in the church in Colossae.  Some reported hearing a new word from God or special revelations from angels so that they built images of angels to worship.   Or some held fast to religious rituals, proclaiming that beyond faith in Christ, one must perform these rituals as well.  Yet, the truth is that Absolutely everything that is needed for our salvation comes from Jesus Christ plus nothing more.  Our faith in His Completed, perfect atonement for our sin is all that is needed to be saved.  He is all that we need or hope to want.  Only He can fill the emptiness in our heart.

Jesus Christ plus Nothing is the Missing Piece We Seek

Shel Silverstein wrote a beautifully illustrated children’s book entitled, “The Missing Piece”. A circle with a pie shaped missing piece went throughout its life, singing, “I’m looking for my missing piece. It went on many adventures and found multiple pieces that it tried to fill the hole with.; but to no avail. Finally, it found one piece that it believed fit perfectly; only to find itself miserable because it now had lost the purpose of its adventure. It rolled too fast to enjoy any of life, so it walked away again leaving the other piece behind. That illustration is a lot like us.  We chase after many things, philosophies, people, and ideas searching for something to fulfill us. And when we think we have found our place and our purpose, we discover we are still broken with a missing piece.

We were made for a relationship with our creator and nothing else can fulfill us.  Furthermore, we need to realize that relationship is built upon the redemptive work of Christ on the cross and only by Him, through Him.  Regardless of how hard I try, I cannot restore the relationship with God, seeing I was born with my spirit disconnected from Him.  And I do not have the ability to rewire my heart.  Built within the conscience of every man, woman and child is a longing, a desire for righteousness, justice, and eternity.  God’s common grace provides that, so all might glimpse His glory and want it. Howbeit, pride and the desire to be self-fulfilled stands in our way of hearing the truth.  Who would believe that to truly Be More, we must become less? 

Human Nature Cannot Believe It Is Christ Plus Nothing

Afterall, if my salvation truly is about nothing that my hands can bring; then, my pride feels squashed underneath the weight.   This is a lesson so hard to learn and one that is hard for humans to accept.    It is this that Paul is addressing throughout the Colossian letter.  Others had come to teach that faith in Christ plus nothing was not sufficient.   They wanted to teach that works were required or worshipping angels or rituals.   But anything that we add diminishes the truth that it is all about grace and God’s love, His providing the propitiation for our sins.  Furthermore, anything that we add diminishes the truth of our absolute depravity apart from Him.  We who were dead are made alive by Him.

⁶ Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, ⁷ rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.⁸ See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits^[a] of the world, (instead of the truth)  according to Christ. (Colossians 2 ESV)

NOT ALONE

But they were not the only church being plagued by false teachers. Paul wrote to the Galatians:

⁶ I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— ⁷ not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. ⁸ But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed.  (Galatians 1: ESV)

The entire book of Romans is dedicated to displacing the false teachings that had crept in unaware. And to refocus them on the truth that salvation is of God because Jesus Christ paid the price for our sin, that all who believe in Him are sealed by the Holy Spirit until the day of our full redemption from this world. 

We face the same dilemma in our society and within the walls of our churches. 

Therefore, what does it mean that Salvation is through Jesus Christ Plus Nothing more?

Jesus said, “⁶ I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14).   John 3: ¹⁶ “For God so loved the world,^[i] that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. ¹⁷ For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. ¹⁸ Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.

Or as Paul wrote in Romans

¹⁶ For I am not ashamed of the gospel ^[c]of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. ¹⁷ 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 (NET).

²¹ But now^[y] apart from the law the righteousness of God (although it is attested by the law and the prophets)^[z] has been disclosed— ²² namely, the righteousness of God through the faithfulness of Jesus Christ^[aa] for all who believe. For there is no distinction, ²³ for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. ²⁴ But they are justified^[ab] freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.  Romans 3 (NET).

1 ^[a] Therefore, since we have been declared righteous by faith, we have^[b] peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, ² through whom we have also obtained access^[c] into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice^[d] in the hope of God’s glory. Romans 5 (NET)

1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.^{[a] 2} For the law of the Spirit of life has set you^[b] free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. ³ For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. Romans 8 (NET)

Concluding Thoughts

It is important to not weaken the truth of the gospel message by adding anything to it.  It truly is Christ plus Nothing that I bring to the table that leads to my salvation.  That does not mean that I, after salvation do not concern myself regarding my life.  The truth of knowing that my salvation is His work alone, compels me to surrender everything to Him. To seek Him with all my heart. And to devote my life entirely to Him. It is a day-by-day process in which the Holy Spirit is teaching my heart to depend fully on Him and to let go of me.  It is then true that Jesus Christ plus Nothing equals everything good and right.  Only Jesus Christ can fulfill the human heart. To complete it fully.  Our being is truly found in Him and Him Alone. 

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

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to 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

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoy poetry perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

Previous

Why Must We Remain Rooted in the Truth of Jesus Christ?

One Mystery Found with Abounding Riches:  Christ in You, The Hope of Glory

DISCLOSURES

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
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.

Credits

New English Translation (NET)

NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

New King James Version (NKJV)

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Picture licensed for use from Goodsalt.com