What Scripture says about You and Sin

   As we dig deeper in what Scripture says about sin and you, remember a couple of things. Thing one: upon repentance, you received the remission or forgiveness of sins. This means you have been released from sin, and delivered from its power. Thing two: God’s grace gave you power over sin. Where there is no law, there is no transgression (Romans 4:15). Under the New Covenant, you’re under grace; not under the Law. God’s unmerited favor gave you the ability to do those things of God you could not do on your own. That’s grace.

   Romans 6:7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.

   When reading verses one through six, we find that when we were baptized into Jesus, we were baptized into His death. Being baptized means we identified with Him, which includes His death. In essence, His death became our death; hence, we are counted as dead in the eyes of God in relation to our old sinful nature. As verse five puts it: “Knowing this, that our old man (self) is crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.”

   You are no longer a slave to sin! Even so consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus (Romans 6:11). If you want to struggle with sin, continue to focus on it. The more you try not to sin, the more sin-conscious you become. Moreover, you may find yourself doing more of the things you’re trying to avoid. To focus on sin is to focus on death. However, as verse 11 says, consider yourself alive to God in Christ Jesus. When centering on the things of God, the things of sin have little to no influence. Grace gave you the ability to choose life.

   Romans 6:12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.

   “Let not” is as permissive statement. The balls in your court as to whether you disallow sin to rule over you. You decide! Even though we’re under grace, and received remission of sins, we still can decide to sin and tell God to take a hike. We did not become robots; however, our new nature draws us closer to God. As a matter of fact, those who are born of God, do not practice sin (see 1 John 3:1-9).

How do You Disallow Sin?

   Romans 6:13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God (KJV).

   The NASB puts it this way: And do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin as instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God.

   To yield or present means to stand aside or near; to present for acceptance, or place before someone. Another way to look at this verse is found in Romans 12:1, I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

   The idea is to righteously present yourself before God in order to acceptably serve Him. By yielding to righteousness, you disallow sin, because you’re serving God. When you focus on the things of righteousness, you will not consider sin. You are no longer sin-conscious.

   Okay, let’s make this even more simple: by loving God and others, your concern will be to bless. The thought of hurting them never crosses your mind. In essence, the Law says “thou shalt not”; but love says “thou shalt.” When you focus on doing the right things, you never have to worry about avoiding the wrong things. By concentrating on excellence, you will not be worried about messing things up.

   Romans 13:8-10 Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law. For this, “You shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal, You shall not covet,” and if there is any other commandment, it is summed up in this saying, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.

   Romans 6:22-23 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

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Think Critically and Live

   Proverbs 9:6 Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding.

   “Come on live a little!” Have you ever heard that phrase? Interestingly, that very phrase can lead to foolishness, which robs people of life. It’s as if the foolish are calling others to become like them. Then of course, there’s, “Get a life.”

   How many do you know who seriously struggle? Nothing seems to go right for them, and if something does start to move in a positive direction, it suddenly reverses course. It gets flushed down the toilet for no apparent reason. Perhaps, you’ve experienced some of this, and would love to see positive change.

   Such change requires honest self-assessment. Yes, brutal honesty is the order of the day. If you’re not prepared to start there, don’t complain if things continue the same direction. On the other hand, if you’re ready, here’s a place to start. Ask yourself, “have I been foolish?” Ask Holy Spirit to show you the answer.

   Our opening Scripture states, “Forsake the foolish, and live.” This is where this question comes into play. Instead of blaming other people or circumstances for your troubles, examine your thoughts and behavior. By the way, it’s easy to blame the devil for all your woes, if you want to avoid taking personal responsibility.

   Do you avoid critical thinking? How rash are your decisions? These two go hand in hand. If you fail to think critically, you may very well make hasty decisions that have negative consequences. Emotions often play a big factor in this one. If you’re short-sighted, you won’t consider the long-term effect of those decisions.

    For instance, if someone buys something on impulse, using credit, he may find himself struggling to pay his bills. He goes from having a surplus, to having to live paycheck to paycheck. It’s not always the amount of money you generate, it’s what you do with it that makes a difference. Some people can survive on very little, while others are always in the hole, no matter how much money they have. If you never have enough, look at your spending habits.

   In short, part of change is putting away those things that are hurting you. So be brave, and ask what needs to change?

Seek Understanding

   Be willing to learn. In most cases, change means acquiring knowledge, wisdom and understanding. Just because one doesn’t know how to do something doesn’t mean he or she can’t learn how. That states the obvious, but people stay in the same mess because they fail to seek new understanding.

   Proverbs 5:4-7 Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth. Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee. Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding. Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her.

   There are many resources available to us, especially in this day and age. We have so many opportunities to learn new things. Most importantly, we have God. If you don’t understand a particular area in life, ask for help. Holy Spirit can you lead you to right resources for learning, whether it’s the Bible, people, books and so on. If you’re willing to listen, He will tell you what you need to hear.

Don’t be Lazy and Thrive

   Another part of the puzzle is being diligent. Some desire change, but they’re not willing put in the work necessary for it happen. The process does require action for change to materialize. For instance, read the book and learn. Apply what you learn, and see what happens. No one owes us a living; we are not entitled. Luck will not get the job done. People may help, but they can’t do our work for us. Obedience requires action on our part. After all, faith requires a response in order for it to be fruitful.

   Proverbs 6:9-11 How long will you lie down, O sluggard? When will you arise from your sleep? “A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to rest”— Your poverty will come in like a vagabond And your need like an armed man.

   Proverbs 13:4 The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat (will prosper).

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Are You Frustrated with God?

   Have you been frustrated with God? Do you feel like you received a Word from Him concerning your future, and it’s nowhere in sight? As a matter of fact, nothing about your current circumstances indicates the Word actually came from Him; furthermore, it’s quite the opposite. By all appearances, you feel as if you heard wrong, or whoever gave you the Word is some sort of false prophet, depending on how it came to you. Are these things playing through your mind?

   Do you feel as if your emotions have been on a wild rollercoaster ride as of late? Meaning, you have been experiencing unexplained moments of anxiety or fear. Other moments, you find yourself suddenly blowing up for no apparent reason. There’s no good explanation as to why something sparked the powder keg, that wouldn’t normally light the fuse. Perhaps, there’s been a long slow burn of anger underneath the surface. Let’s not talk about the impatience with people and situations. Does road-rage feel like the new norm?

   Has compassion been eluding you? Is empathy the last thing on your mind? Has indifference settled in, and you feel nothing for others. You hate to admit it, but you almost could care less about how others are doing.

   All these things are not normal for you, but there they are, making you feel like you’ve lost your mind. What’s going on?

Why are You Frustrated?

   Often in the Christian community, we talk about God’s perfect timing. Sometimes, timing is a code word for process. Meaning, with the promise comes a process. While it is good to keep the eye on the prize, remember there’s more to it than simply seeing something come to pass. Actually, the endgame has more to it than meets the eye.

   Whenever the Lord gives you a prophecy, there’s more purpose attached to it than you’re aware. Philippians 1:6 tells us, “That He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” In His economy, God uses everything to perfect or complete that work. His Word tries and refines us.

   1 Peter 1:6-9 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: Whom having not seen, ye love; in Whom, though now ye see Him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.

   Part of the process includes exposure. Things hidden to us that are contrary to the nature of God, need to come to the surface, so we can deal with them. There is a pressure His Word exerts on your heart, which pushes those things topside, so you can see them. Some things we’ve been ignoring can no longer be ignored. Has the Lord asked you address something in your heart, and you’ve been refusing to listen? Welcome to Exposure 101!

   If you study Hebrews 4:12-13, you’ll discover God’s Word is a separator. It splits things wide open for examination. The Word removes excuses, and brings us to a place of decision. We either decide to receive correction and repent, or we go on our not so merry way. So yes, often prophetic Words include the call to repentance, so we can be conformed to the image of Jesus. Fulfilled promises require maturity. Put another way, a promise fulfilled out of season could wreak havoc in our lives. Possibly to the point of destruction. It’s a very good thing that God is faithful Who promised on so many levels.

   One other element to consider: this process also involves healing. There may be hidden hurts hindering your relationship with God and others. Some wounds are so deep, we’re consciously unaware of them. He knows exactly what you need, and when you need it. Ask for wisdom, He will give it to you. Whatever the hindrance, He’ll help you expel it.

   James 1:2-5 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

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Have you ever had a conversation with individuals who said they’re saved, and as the conversation progressed, they talk about how they try to follow the rules. “Well, I don’t lie or steal. I try not to cuss, but sometimes I slip.” In essence, they’re trying to be good. By trying to follow “the rules,” they lose sight of relationship.

   Even with the best intentions, some fail to realize their best efforts fall woefully short of hitting the target. Instead of going deeper in their relationship with God, they become rule breakers. The harder they try to follow the rules, the more they fail to follow Him. They are putting undue burdens on themselves. They forget the part of the Gospel that says it’s what Jesus did; not what we did or didn’t do. They fell into the same trap by which the Galatians were ensnared.

   Galatians 3:1-3 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh (it would be worth reading the entire chapter)?

   If you want to follow the rules, try this on for size: walk in love, you will fulfill them. By walking in love, you never think about hurting God or others.

   Romans 13:8-10 Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law. For this, “you shall not commit adultery, you shall not murder, you shall not steal, you shall not covet,” and if there is any other commandment, it is summed up in this saying, “you shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.

Scrapping Your Best Efforts

   How many are wearing themselves out by trying to follow a bunch of rules? Where is the joy in that? Christianity 101 eliminates them. What are the basics?

   Ephesians 2:8-10 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.

   Grace is God’s unmerited favor He bestowed upon us, which enables us to do the things of God we could never do in our own strength. By faith we receive His grace, whereby we are saved. As the result of being new creatures in Christ (see also 2 Corinthians 5:17), our new nature manifests the works which God had prepared for us before we were even born. What we do is the result of what He did; not the other way around.

   Are you tired, and need rest for your soul? Then stop working, and enter into His rest. We walk by faith, not by works. Faith is based on relationship.

   Hebrews 4:10-11 For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from His. Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.

   Is what Jesus did on the Cross, enough? The obvious answer is yes. Trying to be good is a form of unbelief. How can you make Perfection more perfect? If we are complete in Him, why would we try to make ourselves complete. Yes, there is a sanctification process by which we become more like Him. It’s a dichotomy. We are justified, whole and complete in Jesus; and yet, we are being conformed to His image. But who does the conforming or completing?

   Philippians 1:6 For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.     

   By resting in Jesus, you are free to enjoy the relationship and truly walk in obedience to God. To obey means to believe with the intent to conform to His desires out of love. To obey is to believe what He says.

   When you boil it down in terms of efforts, it comes down to this: it’s about surrender and submission. For some, works may be a byproduct of wanting to be in control. It’s time to let it go, and finally trust Him with everything. Everything! Surrender leads to obedience. Submission is a sign of sonship.

   Romans 8:13-17 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with Him, that we may be also glorified together (Read the entire chapter for more clarity).

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Many people say, “I love you” for a variety reasons, and some are not all that altruistic. Unfortunately, some use those words to manipulate others. Not being dismissive of actual love behind those words, some will utter them because they are actually looking for the reciprocal response: “I love you too!” In short, they need affirmation. They themselves, need to hear those words.

Interestingly, in the New Testament language (Greek), there’s more than one word rendered as love. For example, PHILEO (Strong’s number 5368), which essentially means to have affection or personal attachment. It’s the sentiment or feeling. Sometimes this word is actually rendered as kiss. It can also mean to be fond of something. It’s also used when someone loves to do something. Jesus give us an example of this:

“When you pray, you are not to be like the hypocrites; for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on the street corners so that they may be seen by men.” (Matthew 6:5).

Not exactly pure. This word is never used in relation to a commandment, such as love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. That particular Greek word is AGAPE.

AGAPE (Strong’s number 26) takes joy in the recipient for the recipients sake alone, and is not reliant on the emotions. It simply looks for the best for others with no strings attached. Most know this already, but may not realize to love in this fashion, requires knowing God. Yes, since we’re made in His image, and are created to actually be love; however, the fall marred that image. We connect to AGAPE by connecting to God through Jesus Christ.

1 John 4:7-9 Beloved, let us love (AGAPE) one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love. By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him.

This may be a strong statement, but it’s worth considering: one of the chief ways to know whether someone is legitimately born again is by his or her love. Jesus said we know people by their fruit. Love should be present with those who claim to be born again. If it’s not there, something is wrong. Either, they’re going through something difficult, and thus it’s not evident; or they’re not born again. No judgment here, just discernment. Read all of 1 John 4 and 5, and see if this is so.

The Commandment is a Privilege

We know the greatest commandment of all is to love God with our entire being. Has it occurred to you that it is actually a privilege as well?

1 John 4:19 We love Him, because He first loved us.

When you move from commandment to relationship, you realize it is a privilege to love God. In fact, it’s a privilege to love others as well. It’s no longer, “I have to love God”; it’s I get to love God. He could have never revealed Himself to us, much less, save us through Jesus Christ. Jesus dying for us is the Greatest Example of love. With Holy Spirit living in us, we find love becomes inherent or innate as we cooperate with Him. We don’t have to work at it.  In fact, we find it to also be a privilege to serve God.

1 John 5:1-3 Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth Him that begat loveth Him also that is begotten of Him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments: and His commandments are not grievous.

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   We know that the Bible is not subject to private interpretation (2 Peter 1:20), and yet, many do try to make it subject to theirs. To be fair, everybody has probably put their own personal spin on the Word, primarily because of their worldview. That’s not to say there was bad intent, it was merely filtering Scriptures through the way we see God and life in general.

   That being said, when you feel like the Lord is revealing a principle to you, or perhaps someone is teaching what they view as revelation, it is important to compare it with the Bible as led by Holy Spirit. Some have taken passages of Scripture and misapplied them, because they were so focused on their said principle. Moreover, they took them out of context. That can lead to error, and in worse cases, heresy. The latter being intentional.

   Sometimes we use phrases to give a quick snapshot of a principle. At times those actual phrases are not found in the Bible, and yet, the principle is clearly there. Case in point: The Trinity or Holy Trinity. Though we don’t see that actual phrase in the Bible, the principle can be found in Scripture. Here’s one we’ll examine: “Generational Curses,” or “Family Curses.” More specifically, we’ll examine a verse in Scripture that is probably the most used to validate this concept. Let’s jump into it.

Does Exodus 20:5-6 Refer To Generational Curses?

   Exodus 20:5-6 For I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate Me; And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love Me, and keep My commandments.

   Before anyone can assign so called generational curses in relation to this passage, one must know what the criteria is before doing so. The first condition is that premise exists within the verse(s), and then see if the principle is applicable. In this instance, what is the premise?

   It has to do with the word, visiting, which means to punish, or judge. Iniquity signifies an offence against God’s law, whether or not it was intentional. It also means guilt. Thus, this verse could also be rendered: “the guilt of the fathers.”

   The concept is God will punish or judge the iniquity of the fathers, and those who continue in it to the fourth and fifth generation.

   There is a major key this passage that helps unlock God’s intent behind it, which is the phrase, to those who hate Me. Those who hate God are the ones to whom judgment comes.

   Another phrase of importance is, shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love Me, and keep My commandments. Those who love God receive mercy, not judgment.

   Question: do we see the word, “curse(s)”; much less, “generational curses” anywhere is these verses? Does it say the children are doomed to follow in their fathers’ footsteps? They do have a choice in the matter, which is based on making the decision to love God.

   The idea is God’s judgment and mercy are ongoing. If the so-called generational curse carries to the third and fourth generations, then should it automatically cease at the fifth? Would it not be possible to perpetuate to the fifth and sixth, if the fourth chooses to continue in the iniquity? If that is the case, does the fifth generation now become the first, while the sixth and the seventh become the second and third?

   What we find is that it pertains to those who decide to continue in the ways of their fathers who commit iniquity. Verse six also clarifies this point: “And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.”

The Actual Context of this Passage

   As already stated, it is important to keep verses in context. In this particular case, what is the actual context? Look at the preceding verses:

   Thou shalt have no other gods before Me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them (the last sentence is the first part of verse 5).

   This is about idol worship, not generational curses. Again, it boils down to those who decide follow their previous generations in idol worship, while not worshipping the true, living God. These actions do lead to curses, but again, it is based on individual decisions.

   When you read other scriptures, you will also discover God does not punish the children for their parents sins (one being Ezekiel 18:18-20).

Remember this about Curses

   Nothing can withstand the Blood of Jesus Christ, nothing! Those who are in Jesus Christ are a new creature, old things have passed away; behold all things have become new (2 Corinthians 5:17). Therefore, so called family or generational curses would be past tense issues. It is coming into the reality of a new life found in Jesus that one is truly free.

   John 8:31-32 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on Him, If ye continue in My Word, then are ye My disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

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Some Improve, Some Don’t

   Do you find yourself chasing a better version of yourself? The self-help industry is flourishing, because so many want to improve themselves, as they want a better life. Where they’re at in life is not working, and they’re desperate for different. Some actually do make changes, because they made the quality decision to change. Others, not so much. They wish for it, but don’t take action.

   The problem for them is they cling to things that hold them back from making those changes. As long as they hold on to those thought patterns, they will continue making the same types of self-defeating decisions, while embracing self-defeating attitudes. It’s no wonder the Bible calls for a renovation of our minds.

   Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

   The blessings of God, which includes changes for the better, require alignment with Him and the way He thinks. You cannot expect His blessings while holding on to those things that no longer belong to you -the lusts of the world. Fighting biblical principles will never get you where you want to be. Just remember, your flesh will tell you differently, but then aren’t we crucified with Christ?

Why Self-Improvement?

   Are you one who wants to improve? To what end? What motivates that desire? Here’s a problem with much of the self-improvement industry, it’s self-based. So many talk about getting help from others (mentors), but they don’t encourage seeking God’s help. If we get brutally honest, a great deal of this self-improvement stuff is based on pride.

   Because people have not connected with the affirmation of God Who is their Father, they seek the affirmation of man by way achievement. They want to feel better about themselves, and in spite of great success, many will never be satisfied. They will never reach a place of contentment, since they’ll never be “happy with themselves.” Hence, the constant chase for the next thing.

   With any success you may experience in the endeavor of seeking improvement, to whom does the glory belong? In truth, the self-made-man is a myth. No one gets where they are, apart from others. Discounting God is a bad idea, especially since He’s the One Who gives us the ability to prosper -both believer and unbeliever. Has anyone come into this world on their own? Stating the obvious, without a mother and father that never could happen.

   No one fed themselves when they were born. Those who read self-help books, did not write them. They were born consumers, not producers. They had to learn to produce from others. Without God, none of the above could possibly exist.

   In the end, everyone will bow before God and give Him all the glory, and that includes all the self-help gurus.

What Self-Improvement Requires

   So, you want to improve? Okay what does that require? Jesus said it best: If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for My sake shall find it (Matthew 16:24-25).

   For those who insist on chasing things some consider marks of success, think about a question Jesus posed: For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul (Matthew 16:26)?

Here’s a couple final verses to consider.

   Colossians 3:23-24 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.

   Revelation4:11 Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for Thou hast created all things, and for Thy pleasure they are and were created.

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   The last basic element listed in Hebrews 6:1-2, makes some feel uncomfortable. Of course, this refers to eternal judgment. How often do we hear, “Don’t judge me?” Like it or not, everyone will be judged. Yes, you will ultimately be judged -we all will.

   “Wait a minute, I thought we’re all under grace, and we don’t have to worry about judgment.” That’s partially correct, but you’re still going be judged. The difference is what side of grace you fall under, and what you’ve done with what God has given you.

   2 Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

   Without going into textbook definitions, understand that there are different Greek and Hebrew words rendered as (to) judge, judged and judgment. They don’t carry the same meaning. For example, one word refers to discernment. When dealing with eternal judgment, it involves sentencing of sorts. Let’s break this down, and see what the Bible has to say about eternal judgment.

What Did Jesus Say About Eternal Judgment

   John 5:25-30 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. For as the Father hath life in Himself; so hath He given to the Son to have life in Himself; And hath given Him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man.

   Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear His voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.

    I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and My judgment is just; because I seek not Mine Own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent Me.

   To begin, all judgment comes through Jesus. One reason for this is because He is the Son of man. As the Son of man, He represents man to God. In essence, He judges us on a peer level, instead of His position as Son of God, or God the Son. This reveals that God is truly just. No one will ever be able to tell Jesus He doesn’t know what it’s like to be human and face temptation. If He judged us as the Son of God or God the Son, we could say that’s not fair.

    Hebrews 4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but One that was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

   To be clear, God is God and we are not. He is able to judge any way He desires; regardless, of how we feel about things, much less have to say about them!

   Jesus also revealed that there is a connection between the resurrection and eternal judgement. As mentioned in part nine, there are two resurrections: one for the just and the other for the unjust.

The First Resurrection and the Judgment of the Just

      Revelation 20:6 Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.

   As Jesus said there is the resurrection of the just, which is the first resurrection. We also see in this passage, there is a second death, which we’ll go in greater detail in the next section. Everyone faces the first death, which is physical, and the second is reserved for those who reject Christ. Read the entirety of Revelation 20, as it gives a synopsis of the first and second resurrection, along with the second death.

   Earlier, we mentioned everyone is judged, which includes the disciples of Jesus Christ. However, there is a vast difference between the judgment for Christians and for those who reject(ed) Him.

   1 Corinthians 3:8-15 Now he who plants and he who waters are one; but each will receive his own reward according to his own labor. For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building.

   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 man must be careful how he builds on it. For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

   Now if any man builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each man’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 man’s work. If any man’s work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward. If any man’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.

   Revelation 22:12 Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.

   Every believer will receive rewards for their works of love and faith; whereas, they lose them if their works are dead. Those who produce fruit are rewarded accordingly. To be sure, our works have nothing to do with earning salvation. Our righteousness is found in Jesus alone. Nonetheless, He rewards obedience.

The Second Resurrection and Second Death

(Is hell final?)

   Revelation 20:11-15 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

   Is hell the final stop for the condemned? Sometimes it may seem so, because of the way some speak of it, or how eternal judgment has been taught by some. In part nine, we mentioned two compartments of hell (hades): paradise (for the just) and SHEOL (for the unjust). Paradise was the holding place for those who looked forward the first Resurrection, and is currently vacant, since Jesus led them out at the Resurrection (see Part 9). Making them partakers of the first resurrection.

   Hell is reserved for those who are awaiting the Great White Throne Judgment, at which time it will give up the dead. The sea is also a metaphor for the world. All will be judged according to their works. Those who names are not written in The Book of Life will be cast into the lake of fire, which is the second death.

   The lake of fire and brimstone is a place of eternal torment, and where also the devil and the fallen angels ultimately will be found (Revelation 20:10).

   2 Peter 2:4 For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment.

   What has been given here is a basic synopsis of eternal judgment. There are more details than what has been shared here. As in other studies, be encouraged to study this one in greater detail for yourself. As we consider eternal judgment, may we consider loving others well enough to share the Gospel with them who have not received Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior!

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Basics #5: Resurrection of the Dead

   The Resurrection begins and ends with Jesus. He is our Hope and without Him there is no hope or assurance. There are a number of components when it comes to the resurrection of the dead. The Bible actually speaks of two resurrections: one for the righteous (the first resurrection) and one for the unrighteous (the second resurrection).

Resurrection Defined

   The Greek word for resurrection is ANASTASIS, pronounced, an-as’-tas-is (Strong’s number, 386). It comes from (Strong’s number 450) ANISTĒMI, to stand up (literally or figuratively). It means a standing up again, that is, (literally) a resurrection from death (individual, general or by implication (its Author)), or (figuratively) a (moral) recovery (of spiritual truth). The word is rendered as follows: raised to life again, resurrection, rise from the dead, that should rise, rising again.

Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life

   What did Jesus say about the Resurrection?

   John 11:25-26 Jesus said unto her, I am the Resurrection, and the Life: he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?

   To begin, He makes it clear that He is the Resurrection, and those who believe in Him will never die. This actually addresses the concept of soul sleep, meaning you go to sleep when you die, and stay in the grave until the Resurrection. We’ll briefly dip into this here, but do study it out for yourself with Holy Spirit, if you haven’t already.

   Jesus said, whoever believes in Him would live, even though he was dead. He also clarified this, when He was confronted by the Sadducees who said there was no resurrection. Be sure to read the entirety of the passage to get full context (Matthew 22:23-33).

   Matthew 22:31-31 But as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.

   Jesus made other references to Abraham being alive while he was yet dead. Prior to Jesus raising from the dead, those who came before him were in Paradise, which is located in hell, which had two compartments. One for the just, and one for the unjust (SHEOL; Hades). When Jesus died, He descended into hell (Paradise) and led those out, who waited for Him when He rose from the dead.

   Jesus reveals this when He told the Pharisees about Lazarus and the rich man, found in Luke 16:14-31. To clarify, He never used proper names in relation to parables, which means, this is not a parable.

   Ephesians 4:8-10 Wherefore He saith, When He ascended up on high, He led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. (Now that He ascended, what is it but that He also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that He might fill all things.)

   1 Peter 3:18-19 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: By which also He went and preached unto the spirits in prison (read verses 20-22).

   When reading the book of Revelation, we see numerous examples of those who have died, and yet stood before the throne of God (Revelation 7:9 being one of them).

   Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:6-8).

   One more, then we’ll move on: when Jesus rose from the dead, there were others who rose out their graves and appeared unto many.

   Matthew 27:52-53 And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, And came out of the graves after His resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many.

   Our physical body sleeps (dies), but our souls and spirits do not!

Baptized into His Resurrection

   Romans 6:3-5 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into His death? Therefore we are buried with Him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

   For if we have been planted together in the likeness of His death, we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection.

   Again, we see all the beginning principles are connected. When we were baptized into Jesus, we were baptized into the Blessed Hope of which we await. We are no longer bound to death, because we are no longer bound to sin. Romans 6 does a great job in revealing this last point.

Our Resurrected Bodies

   When we die, our physical bodies will ultimately turn to dust, never to be used again. Some used to fret over being cremated, thinking they wouldn’t have a body to be resurrected. In a moment, we will see this is an unfounded fear.

   Ecclesiastes 12:7 All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again.

   1 Corinthians 15:50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.

   In short, our bodies, which is flesh and blood, will not be in the Kingdom of God. When God says, He makes all things new, He included our bodies.

   1 Corinthians 15:42-45 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit.

   1 John 3:2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.

   And of course, when the time comes at His return, those who are alive, will be changed in a twinkling of an eye (see 1 Corinthians 15:51-52).

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Basic #4: Laying on of Hands

   What comes to mind when you hear the phrase, “Laying on of hands?” Do you picture healing, or perhaps impartation? Maybe both. What does this expression actually mean? Healing and impartation are part of it, but there’s more to it. So, let’s break this down by the actual words in the phrase, then get some biblical context.

   Laying on, or putting on in the Greek is EPITHESIS, pronounced ep-ith’-es-is (Strong’s number, 1936). This noun is a derivative of EPITITHĒMI (Strong’s number 2007), which is the verb; an imposition (of hands officially): – laying (putting) on. When in used in conjunction with hands it points to blessing and ordination. More on that in a moment.

   CHEIR, pronounced khire (Strong’s number 5495). The hand (originally meant the whole arm, from the shoulder to the tip of the fingers). (Literally or figuratively [power]; especially [by Hebraism] a means or instrument): – hand. Thus, the hand is an instrument of action and power.

   Laying on of hands is an act of blessing, impartation, ordination or inauguration, and of course a symbol of healing. In the Old Testament it was an act of blessing, as well as ordination, or placing someone in office or position of authority.

   We see this illustrated by the Patriarchs who blessed their children and grandchildren, as they laid their hands on them in the process (i.e., Genesis 48:8-21 [Jacob blesses Ephraim and Manasseh]).

   One example of laying of hands in relation to placing someone in authority is when Moses laid hands on Joshua and commissioned him before all the congregation of Israel.

   Numbers 27:18-20 And the LORD said unto Moses, Take thee Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay thine hand upon him; And set him before Eleazar the priest, and before all the congregation; and give him a charge in their sight. And thou shalt put some of thine honour upon him, that all the congregation of the children of Israel may be obedient (read verses 22-23 for the completed act).

   The concept of laying on of hands in relation to blessing is carried into the New Testament, and of course we see Jesus as our Primary Example. Moreover, we see this action in connection with healing.

   Mark 16:18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

   As to impartation, we see this in connection with those receiving the Holy Spirit.

   Acts 8:14-17 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.

   As a side note, one may receive Holy Spirit without someone laying hands on him or her. This we see in Acts 10 in relation to Cornelius and his household. In this particular case, they received the Gift of Holy Spirit as they heard the Gospel preached to them by the Apostle Peter. Peter did not lay hands on them.

   Paul makes mention of the gift inside of Timothy, who received it by prophecy with the laying of hands of the presbytery (1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6).

   As we see there are a number of facets involved with the laying of hands. There is an underlying theme here: laying of hands is led by Holy Spirit. It is not something to be done in half-hearted manner.

   1 Timothy 5:22 Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.

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