God's Presence III} ASSOCIATIONI BELONG TO HIM
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Let’s take a moment to review seven visible manifestations that clearly represent physical encounters with the pre-incarnate Christ.
Let’s take a moment to review seven visible manifestations that clearly represent physical encounters with the pre-incarnate Christ.
As you reflect on these miraculous events, you’ll notice that theophanies documented in the Bible share five similar characteristics:
As you reflect on these miraculous events, you’ll notice that theophanies documented in the Bible share five similar characteristics:
1. A God-initiated encounter
1. A God-initiated encounter
2. Declarations of deity
2. Declarations of deity
3. Miraculous actions and knowledge
3. Miraculous actions and knowledge
4. Comforting statements
4. Comforting statements
5. Worship of God as a result of the encounter
5. Worship of God as a result of the encounter
I] The Lord Appears to Abraham (Genesis 18:1-15)
In this passage, it says that “the LORD appeared to [Abraham] by the terebinth trees.”
I] The Lord Appears to Abraham (Genesis 18:1-15)
In this passage, it says that “the LORD appeared to [Abraham] by the terebinth trees.”
1 And the Lord appeared unto him in the plains of Mamre: and he sat in the tent door in the heat of the day;
2 And he lift up his eyes and looked, and, lo, three men stood by him: and when he saw them, he ran to meet them from the tent door, and bowed himself toward the ground,
3 And said, My Lord, if now I have found favour in thy sight, pass not away, I pray thee, from thy servant:
4 Let a little water, I pray you, be fetched, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree:
5 And I will fetch a morsel of bread, and comfort ye your hearts; after that ye shall pass on: for therefore are ye come to your servant. And they said, So do, as thou hast said.
6 And Abraham hastened into the tent unto Sarah, and said, Make ready quickly three measures of fine meal, knead it, and make cakes upon the hearth.
7 And Abraham ran unto the herd, and fetcht a calf tender and good, and gave it unto a young man; and he hasted to dress it.
8 And he took butter, and milk, and the calf which he had dressed, and set it before them; and he stood by them under the tree, and they did eat.
9 And they said unto him, Where is Sarah thy wife? And he said, Behold, in the tent.
10 And he said, I will certainly return unto thee according to the time of life; and, lo, Sarah thy wife shall have a son. And Sarah heard it in the tent door, which was behind him.
11 Now Abraham and Sarah were old and well stricken in age; and it ceased to be with Sarah after the manner of women.
12 Therefore Sarah laughed within herself, saying, After I am waxed old shall I have pleasure, my lord being old also?
13 And the Lord said unto Abraham, Wherefore did Sarah laugh, saying, Shall I of a surety bear a child, which am old?
14 Is any thing too hard for the Lord? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.
15 Then Sarah denied, saying, I laughed not; for she was afraid. And he said, Nay; but thou didst laugh.
Note Abraham’s immediate reaction. He looked and saw three men standing near him. He “ran…to meet them, and bowed himself to the ground” (Gen 18: 1-2).
Note Abraham’s immediate reaction. He looked and saw three men standing near him. He “ran…to meet them, and bowed himself to the ground” (Gen 18: 1-2).
It seems plausible that Abraham may have recognized the pre-incarnate Lord Jesus Christ from previous encounters in Genesis 12:7 and Genesis 14:18-20.
It seems plausible that Abraham may have recognized the pre-incarnate Lord Jesus Christ from previous encounters in Genesis 12:7 and Genesis 14:18-20.
7 And the Lord appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land: and there builded he an altar unto the Lord, who appeared unto him.
18 And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God.
19 And he blessed him, and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth:
20 And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.
Only one of these men—the Lord Jesus—spoke with authority.
Only one of these men—the Lord Jesus—spoke with authority.
Not only does He prophesy that Sarah will have a son in her old age (Gen 18: 10) but He knows that Sarah privately laughed in her tent when she overheard the news.
Not only does He prophesy that Sarah will have a son in her old age (Gen 18: 10) but He knows that Sarah privately laughed in her tent when she overheard the news.
He responds by asking, “Why did Sarah laugh?…Is anything too hard for the LORD?” ( Gen 18:13-14).
He responds by asking, “Why did Sarah laugh?…Is anything too hard for the LORD?” ( Gen 18:13-14).
II} The Man Wrestles with Jacob (Genesis 32:24-30)
II} The Man Wrestles with Jacob (Genesis 32:24-30)
24 And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day.
25 And when he saw that he prevailed not against him, he touched the hollow of his thigh; and the hollow of Jacob’s thigh was out of joint, as he wrestled with him.
26 And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I will not let thee go, except thou bless me.
27 And he said unto him, What is thy name? And he said, Jacob.
28 And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed.
29 And Jacob asked him, and said, Tell me, I pray thee, thy name. And he said, Wherefore is it that thou dost ask after my name? And he blessed him there.
30 And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved.
Jacob spent the night alone as he was waiting to meet his estranged brother, Esau.
Jacob spent the night alone as he was waiting to meet his estranged brother, Esau.
The passage says “a Man wrestled with him until the breaking of day” (Gen 32: 24).
The passage says “a Man wrestled with him until the breaking of day” (Gen 32: 24).
24 And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day.
When Jacob continued fighting after long hours of struggle, the Man touched the socket of Jacob’s hip and instantly maimed him ( Gen 32:25).
When Jacob continued fighting after long hours of struggle, the Man touched the socket of Jacob’s hip and instantly maimed him ( Gen 32:25).
25 And when he saw that he prevailed not against him, he touched the hollow of his thigh; and the hollow of Jacob’s thigh was out of joint, as he wrestled with him.
Still, Jacob refused to release Him, even while experiencing excruciating pain. Jacob cried out, “I will not let You go unless You bless me!” ( Gen 32: 26).
Still, Jacob refused to release Him, even while experiencing excruciating pain. Jacob cried out, “I will not let You go unless You bless me!” ( Gen 32: 26).
26 And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I will not let thee go, except thou bless me.
The Man said, “Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel; for you have struggled with God and with men, and have prevailed” (Gen 32: 28).
The Man said, “Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel; for you have struggled with God and with men, and have prevailed” (Gen 32: 28).
28 And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed.
And Jacob, recognizing the divinity of Christ, the Man with whom he wrestled, responded with a bold proclamation: “For I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved” (Gen 32: 30).
And Jacob, recognizing the divinity of Christ, the Man with whom he wrestled, responded with a bold proclamation: “For I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved” (Gen 32: 30).
30 And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved.
III] The Angel of the Lord Speaks from a Burning Bush (Exodus 3:2-10)
III] The Angel of the Lord Speaks from a Burning Bush (Exodus 3:2-10)
2 And the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed.
3 And Moses said, I will now turn aside, and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt.
4 And when the Lord saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here am I.
5 And he said, Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground.
6 Moreover he said, I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. And Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God.
7 And the Lord said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters; for I know their sorrows;
8 And I am come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land unto a good land and a large, unto a land flowing with milk and honey; unto the place of the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites.
9 Now therefore, behold, the cry of the children of Israel is come unto me: and I have also seen the oppression wherewith the Egyptians oppress them.
10 Come now therefore, and I will send thee unto Pharaoh, that thou mayest bring forth my people the children of Israel out of Egypt.
Moses, a fugitive from Egypt, was tending to his father-in-law’s flock when the “Angel of the LORD appeared to him in a flame of fire from the midst of a bush….The bush was burning with fire, but the bush was not consumed” (Exod 3: 2).
Moses, a fugitive from Egypt, was tending to his father-in-law’s flock when the “Angel of the LORD appeared to him in a flame of fire from the midst of a bush….The bush was burning with fire, but the bush was not consumed” (Exod 3: 2).
2 And the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed.
God called to Moses from the bush, telling him, “Do not draw near this place.
God called to Moses from the bush, telling him, “Do not draw near this place.
Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground” (Exod 3: 5).
Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground” (Exod 3: 5).
5 And he said, Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground.
We know this was no ordinary angel because He clearly revealed His identity to Moses: “I am the God of your father—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.”
We know this was no ordinary angel because He clearly revealed His identity to Moses: “I am the God of your father—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.”
The passage tells us that Moses “was afraid to look upon God” as the Lord called him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt (Exod 3: 6-10).
The passage tells us that Moses “was afraid to look upon God” as the Lord called him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt (Exod 3: 6-10).
6 Moreover he said, I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. And Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God.
7 And the Lord said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters; for I know their sorrows;
8 And I am come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land unto a good land and a large, unto a land flowing with milk and honey; unto the place of the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites.
9 Now therefore, behold, the cry of the children of Israel is come unto me: and I have also seen the oppression wherewith the Egyptians oppress them.
10 Come now therefore, and I will send thee unto Pharaoh, that thou mayest bring forth my people the children of Israel out of Egypt.
Many artistic interpretations of this event depict the flaming bush that did not burn, but the text clearly states that the Angel of the Lord was visible to Moses.
Many artistic interpretations of this event depict the flaming bush that did not burn, but the text clearly states that the Angel of the Lord was visible to Moses.
It is possible that the shekinah glory of God emanating from the Angel—the pre-incarnate Christ—standing in the midst of the bush gave the appearance of fire.
It is possible that the shekinah glory of God emanating from the Angel—the pre-incarnate Christ—standing in the midst of the bush gave the appearance of fire.
Let us Look at the 3 rd Gift we have from the PRESENCE of the LORD
Let us Look at the 3 rd Gift we have from the PRESENCE of the LORD
3} ASSOCIATION
3} ASSOCIATION
I belong to him.
I belong to him.
There are 3 very important thoughts we need to take notice of .
There are 3 very important thoughts we need to take notice of .
A. SACRIFICED LIFE
A. SACRIFICED LIFE
a. PRICE PAID 1 Cor 6:19-20
a. PRICE PAID 1 Cor 6:19-20
19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.
Allow us to look briefly at the
Allow us to look briefly at the
The Cost of Redemption
The Cost of Redemption
THE COST OF REDEMPTION
THE COST OF REDEMPTION
A tremendous change has taken place in our lives – the change from ignorance [1Peter 1:14] to the knowledge of God [ 1 Peter 1:21], the change from hopelessness to a living hope [1 Peter 1: 3, 21], the change from darkness to wonderful light [1 Peter 2:9], the change from being nobody to being the people of God [ 1 Peter 2:10], the change from being the objects of condemnation to being the recipients of mercy [1 Peter 2:10].
A tremendous change has taken place in our lives – the change from ignorance [1Peter 1:14] to the knowledge of God [ 1 Peter 1:21], the change from hopelessness to a living hope [1 Peter 1: 3, 21], the change from darkness to wonderful light [1 Peter 2:9], the change from being nobody to being the people of God [ 1 Peter 2:10], the change from being the objects of condemnation to being the recipients of mercy [1 Peter 2:10].
14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:
21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.
9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:
10 Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
10 Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
This immense and multi-faceted change has occurred because we have been the focus of a grand and costly redemptive action of God.
This immense and multi-faceted change has occurred because we have been the focus of a grand and costly redemptive action of God.
Redemption presupposes an existing condition of bondage, captivity, enslavement or debt, from which there is no simple or easy way out. Redemption (liberation) from such bondage always involves a cost.
Redemption presupposes an existing condition of bondage, captivity, enslavement or debt, from which there is no simple or easy way out. Redemption (liberation) from such bondage always involves a cost.
That’s what redemption is - freedom achieved by the payment of a price.
That’s what redemption is - freedom achieved by the payment of a price.
This price is termed the ‘ransom’. In the case of our salvation, the ransom, the price paid, is the life of Christ.
This price is termed the ‘ransom’. In the case of our salvation, the ransom, the price paid, is the life of Christ.
He died, he shed his blood, he gave his life, as the only price that could secure our freedom.
He died, he shed his blood, he gave his life, as the only price that could secure our freedom.
Jesus spoke of this: ‘The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many’ [Mark 10:45].
Jesus spoke of this: ‘The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many’ [Mark 10:45].
45 For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
Paul wrote of it: ‘There is no difference, for all ... are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood’ [Romans 3:22-25].
And again: ‘Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree.”’ [Galatians 3:13].
Paul wrote of it: ‘There is no difference, for all ... are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood’ [Romans 3:22-25].
And again: ‘Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree.”’ [Galatians 3:13].
22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:
23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:
25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:
And again: ‘In him we have redemption through his blood ...’ [Ephesians 1:7].
And again: ‘In him we have redemption through his blood ...’ [Ephesians 1:7].
7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;
John reported the praise of Christ around the throne of God: ‘... you were slain, and with your blood you purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation’ [Revelation 5:9].
John reported the praise of Christ around the throne of God: ‘... you were slain, and with your blood you purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation’ [Revelation 5:9].
9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;
Peter teaches us that our redemption was not purchased with ‘perishable things such as silver or gold ... but with the precious blood of Christ’ [1 Peter 1:18,19].
Peter teaches us that our redemption was not purchased with ‘perishable things such as silver or gold ... but with the precious blood of Christ’ [1 Peter 1:18,19].
18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;
19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:
He goes on to explain why the blood of Christ is so precious, so valuable.
He goes on to explain why the blood of Christ is so precious, so valuable.
Christ is ‘a lamb without blemish or defect’. Here Peter uses the symbolism embedded in the ritual requirements of the Passover festival: that only a perfect lamb was an acceptable substitutionary sacrifice.
Christ is ‘a lamb without blemish or defect’. Here Peter uses the symbolism embedded in the ritual requirements of the Passover festival: that only a perfect lamb was an acceptable substitutionary sacrifice.
The reality symbolised by this perfect sacrificial lamb is Jesus Christ, who was without sin.
The reality symbolised by this perfect sacrificial lamb is Jesus Christ, who was without sin.
Christ is the real Lamb of God – perfect, sinless, without blame. He ‘had no sin’ [2Corinthians 5:21]. He, the righteous one, died for us, the unrighteous [1Peter 3:18].
Christ is the real Lamb of God – perfect, sinless, without blame. He ‘had no sin’ [2Corinthians 5:21]. He, the righteous one, died for us, the unrighteous [1Peter 3:18].
21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
18 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:
This incredible plan of redemption was, Peter affirms, determined by God even before we had sinned: ‘He was chosen before the creation of the world ...’ [1 Peter 1:20].
This incredible plan of redemption was, Peter affirms, determined by God even before we had sinned: ‘He was chosen before the creation of the world ...’ [1 Peter 1:20].
20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,
From eternity, from deep within the heart of God, before time, before creation, before we existed, Christ was the chosen ransom.
From eternity, from deep within the heart of God, before time, before creation, before we existed, Christ was the chosen ransom.
As Paul puts it ‘this grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time’ [2Timothy 1:9].
As Paul puts it ‘this grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time’ [2Timothy 1:9].
9 Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,
There are three truths here that emphasise the extreme cost of our redemption:
There are three truths here that emphasise the extreme cost of our redemption:
a.Who it is who paid the price: it is Jesus Christ, the beloved Son of God, the King of kings and Lord of lords.
a.Who it is who paid the price: it is Jesus Christ, the beloved Son of God, the King of kings and Lord of lords.
b.What the price was: it was his life given, his death, his blood.
b.What the price was: it was his life given, his death, his blood.
c.When this plan was first decided: it was decided before the creation of the universe.
c.When this plan was first decided: it was decided before the creation of the universe.
Once we recognize this extreme cost of our redemption we can draw two further conclusions:
Once we recognize this extreme cost of our redemption we can draw two further conclusions:
1.That our redemption is highly valued by God.
1.That our redemption is highly valued by God.
God did not do it lightly or thoughtlessly.
God did not do it lightly or thoughtlessly.
Knowing completely all that was involved God planned it and implemented it.
Knowing completely all that was involved God planned it and implemented it.
2. That we ourselves are highly valued by God.
2. That we ourselves are highly valued by God.
God created us, knowing that we would sin.
God created us, knowing that we would sin.
God created us, knowing that to redeem us from that sin he would send his one and only Son into the world to pay the price for our redemption. How very, very much he loves us!
God created us, knowing that to redeem us from that sin he would send his one and only Son into the world to pay the price for our redemption. How very, very much he loves us!
For this reason Peter says: ‘... live your lives ... in reverent fear. For you know ... that you were redeemed ... with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect ... chosen before the creation of the world.’
For this reason Peter says: ‘... live your lives ... in reverent fear. For you know ... that you were redeemed ... with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect ... chosen before the creation of the world.’
b. PURCHASED POSSESSION.
b. PURCHASED POSSESSION.
The Purchased Possession
The Purchased Possession
Main Scripture:
Ephesians 1:11-14
Main Scripture:
Ephesians 1:11-14
11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:
12 That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.
13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
THE PURCHASED POSSESSION
THE PURCHASED POSSESSION
Text: Ephesians 1:11-14
In the eternal plan of God our salvation consists of more than the forgiveness of our sins so that when we die we will go to heaven.
The plan of God includes everything from the saving of our souls to what Paul calls "the redemption of the purchased possession."
What God has in mind is spectacular -- complete and final redemption!
Not only did God plan to redeem our souls from the curse of sin, but He is also going to redeem our bodies from the curse of man's fall.
Paul said it this way in
Romans 8:23
23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.
The rapture of the church is that event which will bring about complete and final deliverance for the child of God.
The rapture is that supernatural event that will take place when Christ returns for all born-again believers.
We do not know the day or the hour, but we know that Christ will appear in the clouds and cause all the saints of God, living and dead, to be caught up -- literally snatched away -- from this world to meet Him in the heavens.
In his book End Times, Clyne W. Buxton explains, "The rapture is not just the wistful thinking of weary followers. It is a paramount doctrine of the Bible, for the hope of the return of Christ pervades the New Testament.
The coming of the Lord is called the blessed hope (Titus 2:13), the purifying hope (I John 3:2,3), and the comforting hope (see I Thessalonians 4:18, KJV)." (Buxton, 53-54)
The rapture is the beginning of the bringing together of God's eternal plan of redemption for man and all of creation.
As we look into this passage, we can see that
there are several reasons for our anticipation of this blessed event.
I. WE KNOW THAT WE WERE CREATED FOR THE PURPOSE OF REDEMPTION (v. Eph 1: 11-12).
I. WE KNOW THAT WE WERE CREATED FOR THE PURPOSE OF REDEMPTION (v. Eph 1: 11-12).
11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:
12 That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.
A. Our redemption was not an afterthought of God.
A. Our redemption was not an afterthought of God.
God the Father knew before He created man that man would sin and become a fallen creation.
He also knew that there would come a day when He would offer mankind the gift of redemption.
This gift came through Jesus Christ. This was His purpose for coming to earth.
Galatians 4:4-5
4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,
5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.
One translation renders that last verse, Galations 4:5, as follows: "God sent him to pay for the freedom of those who were controlled by these laws so that we would be adopted as his children." (God's Word Series, italics added)
It was God's preordained plan or predestined plan to redeem all mankind.
Predestination is simply this: God predestined or pre-planned that all who would believe would be saved.
B. The eternal plan of God's redemption called for our salvation (or deliverance).
B. The eternal plan of God's redemption called for our salvation (or deliverance).
I Peter 1:3-5 , 20-21
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
4 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,
5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,
21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.
Salvation is mankind's destiny!
But we must choose to follow God's plan.
II. WE KNOW THAT WE HAVE BEEN SEALED FOR THE PURPOSE OF REDEMPTION (v. Eph 1: 13).
II. WE KNOW THAT WE HAVE BEEN SEALED FOR THE PURPOSE OF REDEMPTION (v. Eph 1: 13).
13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
A. The Holy Spirit seals those who have "trusted" and "believed" in Christ.
A. The Holy Spirit seals those who have "trusted" and "believed" in Christ.
a.This "seal" is a distinguishing mark upon a person's life and character.
a.This "seal" is a distinguishing mark upon a person's life and character.
"...for Paul this coming of the Spirit produced in the person concerned something recognizable, and its absence in a Christian was noticeable ( Ac.10:47, 19:2).
"...for Paul this coming of the Spirit produced in the person concerned something recognizable, and its absence in a Christian was noticeable ( Ac.10:47, 19:2).
47 Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?
2 He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.
It was this difference in the character of the person which was the seal of the Spirit -- the marks in human life produced by the coming of the Spirit." (Mitton, 61)
II Timothy 2:19 speaks of that "seal,"
19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
B. The Holy Spirit seals those who believe to assure them of the reality of their salvation.
B. The Holy Spirit seals those who believe to assure them of the reality of their salvation.
Francis Foulkes explains, "The Holy Spirit is the Christian's seal. The experience of the Holy Spirit in their lives is the final proof to them, and indeed a demonstration to others, of the genuineness of what they have believed, and provides the inward assurance that they belong to God as children." (Foulkes, 64)
Francis Foulkes explains, "The Holy Spirit is the Christian's seal. The experience of the Holy Spirit in their lives is the final proof to them, and indeed a demonstration to others, of the genuineness of what they have believed, and provides the inward assurance that they belong to God as children." (Foulkes, 64)
Romans 8:16 tells us, ( Romans 8:17)
Romans 8:16 tells us, ( Romans 8:17)
III. WE KNOW THAT WE WERE PURCHASED FOR THE PURPOSE OF REDEMPTION (v.Eph 1: 14).
III. WE KNOW THAT WE WERE PURCHASED FOR THE PURPOSE OF REDEMPTION (v.Eph 1: 14).
14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
A. The Holy Spirit is God's down payment and our guarantee, our earnest, or our foretaste of God's heavenly promises.
A. The Holy Spirit is God's down payment and our guarantee, our earnest, or our foretaste of God's heavenly promises.
Here in verse 14 "Paul adds a further analogy: The Holy Spirit is a 'deposit"....
Here in verse 14 "Paul adds a further analogy: The Holy Spirit is a 'deposit"....
This word is borrowed the commercial world and means a deposit or first installment in hire purchase.
This word is borrowed the commercial world and means a deposit or first installment in hire purchase.
It is a token payment assuring the vendor that the full amount will eventually follow.
It is a token payment assuring the vendor that the full amount will eventually follow.
Paul regards the Holy Spirit as the first installment of the Christian's inheritance.
Paul regards the Holy Spirit as the first installment of the Christian's inheritance.
At the end of the age God will redeem his pledge and open the treasures of heaven to all who are in Christ.
At the end of the age God will redeem his pledge and open the treasures of heaven to all who are in Christ.
Meanwhile, the Spirit gives us the assurance that these things will one day be ours." (Wood, Barker & Kohlenberger 754)
Meanwhile, the Spirit gives us the assurance that these things will one day be ours." (Wood, Barker & Kohlenberger 754)
B. The price for our salvation was paid, thus making us God's possession.
B. The price for our salvation was paid, thus making us God's possession.
I Peter 1:18-19
I Peter 1:18-19
18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;
19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:
C. Therefore, our faith and God's provision come together for the glory of God.
C. Therefore, our faith and God's provision come together for the glory of God.
God has chosen the act of redemption as the means by which He glorifies His name.
God has chosen the act of redemption as the means by which He glorifies His name.
As He is glorified for His works of grace and mercy, He is presented to the world as the Great Redeemer.
As He is glorified for His works of grace and mercy, He is presented to the world as the Great Redeemer.
Christ will return one day for us as the Great Redeemer of those who have been purchased by His precious blood.
Christ will return one day for us as the Great Redeemer of those who have been purchased by His precious blood.
He paid the price that we could not pay and one day He will receive the glory and honor that He is deserves.
He paid the price that we could not pay and one day He will receive the glory and honor that He is deserves.
Christ is the Redeemer of the purchased possession!
Christ is the Redeemer of the purchased possession!
B. SPIRIT FILLED LIFE
B. SPIRIT FILLED LIFE
Holy Spirit -
Holy Spirit -
A. The Power of God's Presence
A. The Power of God's Presence
The Holy Spirit is probably the least understood Person of the Godhead or Trinity.
But when you became a Christ-follower, you had already experienced his work.
(I am referring to the Holy Spirit a "He," because the Bible talks about him as a Person, not as just an impersonal force.)
We are going to spend some time talking about him, because as you understand the dynamic of the Spirit in your life, you will be better able to cooperate with his working in you.
The word "spirit" comes from the word for "breath" or "wind" -- unseen, but powerful.
B. Convincing Work of the Spirit
B. Convincing Work of the Spirit
The Holy Spirit's work began in you even before you committed your life to Christ.
Jesus told his disciples of the Holy Spirit:
(John 16:8)
8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
In Greek, the language in which the New Testament was originally written, the same word can be translated "convict" and "convince."
The Spirit both convinced you that Jesus was the Way and convicted or made you aware of, and ashamed of, your sins.
Likewise, when you tell someone about Christ, you can't "talk them into becoming a Christian."
That is the Holy Spirit's responsibility. Instead, relax, trust God, love that person with all your heart, and say what God puts into your mind.
Bringing people to faith in Christ is the Holy Spirit's work. You are the assistant, not the other way around.
C. Life-Giving Power of the Spirit
C. Life-Giving Power of the Spirit
Jesus said to Nicodemus, a religious leader who was trying to understand Jesus' teaching:
(John 3:5-7)
5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.
Some people imagine that being a Christian is primarily believing certain truths and propositions.
Truth and faith are involved, of course, but truth itself is not the spark of life, the breath of life.
When the Holy Spirit comes into a person, he imparts the life of God and changes the person.
Doesn't Jesus live in a person?
Yes.
It is the Spirit of Jesus that lives in you.
Spirit of Christ = Spirit of God = Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is sent by Jesus from the Father to dwell in a person (John 15:26).
26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:
There is no conflict.
The Holy Spirit is God, working in full cooperation with the Father and Son.
It's not important to determine exactly whether the Holy Spirit or Jesus is doing something.
Just realize that each has his own particular area of ministry.
Christians have struggled for centuries to understand this mystery of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
How can they be one, and still be three persons?
This is the Trinity or Tri-unity .
They are all equally God, but in some way they act as different Persons.
I know that sounds strange, but that is the clear teaching of the Bible.
The point I'm trying to make is that the Holy Spirit in a person makes the difference between being religious, but spiritually dead, and being alive spiritually.
The Spirit brings spiritual life.
The life of God is a gift, not something a person can "achieve" through believing it so.
D. Be Filled with the Spirit
D. Be Filled with the Spirit
The Spirit is the source of our spiritual life, so in that sense every true Christian has received the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:9).
9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.
But sometimes, the presence of the Holy Spirit seems to be at low ebb in our lives. St. Paul exhorts us to: "Be filled with the Spirit" (Ephesians 5:18).
18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
The New Testament uses several terms to describe the Spirit in a believer's life:
Receive the Holy Spirit, that is, "take into your possession" (John 7:39; Acts 1:8; 2:38; 8:15; 10:47; Galatians 3:2, 14)
39 (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
15 Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost:
47 Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?
2 This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?
14 That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
Be baptized with the Holy Spirit, that is, "be immersed in" or "be overwhelmed by" the Spirit (Luke 3:16; Acts 1:5; 11:16)
16 John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire:
5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.
16 Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost.
Be filled with the Holy Spirit, that is, "become full" of the Spirit (Acts 2:4; 4:8, 31; 9:17; 13:57; Ephesians 5:18)
4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,
31 And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.
17 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.
18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
In many cases, these words are used synonymously.
Sometimes in Scripture we read about various supernatural phenomena that accompany this initial filling of the Spirit; other places we don't. Of course, we don't seek an experience, but the Spirit Himself.
The point is that we seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit's power at all times -- not just a taste, but the fullness.
We experience this fullness by yielding ourselves and our will to God and to his Holy Spirit.
E. The Spirit Helps Us Resist Temptation
E. The Spirit Helps Us Resist Temptation
Another way the fullness of the Spirit is described in the Bible is as "walking" or "living" in the Spirit or "being led" by the Spirit.
Talking about resisting temptation. The Holy Spirit plays an important role here, too.
(Galatians 5:16-18, )
16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.
18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.
Living (literally "walking") by the Spirit is the key. It is not focusing on the sins that plague us and resisting them toe-to-toe. Rather, it is yielding ourselves to the Spirit and asking him for help to resist. If we focus on the temptation, we are likely to fall. But if we turn our focus to the Spirit, we will be able to stand firm.
F. Fruit of the Spirit
F. Fruit of the Spirit
Not only does the Holy Spirit brings spiritual life to you, he also works in you to make you more like Jesus.
(Galatians 5:22-23)
A tree produces fruit if it is well-watered and healthy.
If the tree is sickly, the blossoms will be few and the fruit shriveled.
The Holy Spirit works within you to build the qualities of Christ's character in you.
As you yield to the Holy Spirit, your character gradually changes.
Don't be discouraged if this doesn't happen as quick as you think it should.
Yes, some lifestyle changes will take place quickly and dramatically.
Our basic character is different. It is the product of many years of attitudes and decisions.
Our character before Christ is primarily centered on self-interest, not genuine love -- love for God and love for others.
However, the Holy Spirit works with us to chip away at the old nature and replace it with the fruit or product of the Spirit's activity, beginning with love.
G. Gifts of the Spirit
G. Gifts of the Spirit
This aspect of the Holy Spirit is very exciting: the gifts of the Spirit -- powerful spiritual equipment to carry out Christ's mission.
Allow us to Notice the difference:
Fruit of the Spirit -- the character of Christ formed in us
Gifts of the Spirit -- spiritual equipment for our mission
Both are important. One without the other produces an impotent Christian.
God has so "wired" each of us that each of us has talents, abilities, passions, and special spiritual empowerment's to help God's work.
(1 Corinthians 12:4-7)
4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.
6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.
7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
Let's look briefly at a few of the gifts that the Holy Spirit bestows, though the list below is by no means complete.
Teaching is a gift of the Spirit to communicate God's truths effectively (Ephesians 4:11; Romans 12:7b).
Pastoring is a gift that enables a person to lead and care for God's people (Ephesians 4:11).
Evangelism is a gift that helps a person communicate the Gospel effectively and win people to Christ. This is beyond simple witnessing which we are all expected to do, but a special gift�(Ephesians 4:11; Acts 8:12, 26-39; 21:8).
Music and Artistic Skills are spiritual gifts to be used for God, too (Exodus 31:3; 1 Chronicles 25:7).
Service14 is a spiritual gift. We are all called to serve, but some have the special spiritual gift of assisting another person in God's work, filling in behind the scenes (Romans 12:7a; 1 Corinthians 12:28).
Mercy, that is, an extraordinary empathy for others, is a special gift used by God, often by those who have a healing ministry (Romans 12:8d).
Encouragement or exhortation is a gift that God uses to call others to their best in the Lord (Romans 12:8a).
We may look at these as "natural" gifts, but they're not just ordinary. They are empowered spiritually. The Bible also talks about some gifts that we would classify as "supernatural": gifts of healing and miracles, prophecy and a word of knowledge, for example (1 Corinthians 12:28).
Through powerful gifts of the Holy Spirit, lives have been changed, churches have been renewed, nations have been transformed. It is hard to overestimate the power of God working through a spiritually-gifted individual who is in tune with the Spirit.
The primary lists of spiritual gifts are found in 1 Corinthians 12; Romans 12:4-8; and 1 Peter 4:7-11. Various people have counted the spiritual gifts mentioned in the Bible and come up with numbers like 9, 19, 27, etc. But I think that though the categories of gifts may be limited, the expression of those gifts are as infinite and unique as there are people. A better term might be "gift mix," since God mixes our spiritual gift or gifts with the personalities and passions he gave us.
H. We need to Discover Your Spiritual Gifts
H. We need to Discover Your Spiritual Gifts
One of your tasks as a new Christ-follower is to begin to discover the spiritual gifts that God has given you, and then use them for God. But be patient. It might take a while to get a good idea of how God has gifted you.
Try different kinds of ministries to see which you do best. You will be most effective in the areas where you have a spiritual gift. You will find that other believers will confirm your ministry in certain areas. You are also likely to find great joy and fulfillment in the areas where you have a spiritual gift. Sometimes taking a written "spiritual gifts inventory" will help you identify these areas. Ask your pastor about this.
When you discover the areas where you have the strongest spiritual gifts, concentrate your time and efforts there for greatest effectiveness for Christ's kingdom.
Nothing Is Impossible
Nothing Is Impossible
We are so used to living in the natural world that is ruled by the physical laws God has set in place, that it is hard for us to lift our faith beyond them. But realize that the Holy Spirit is God living inside of you, filling you. Because this is true, nothing is impossible -- nothing!
To Jeremiah: "I am the LORD, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?" (Jeremiah 32:27)
Angel Gabriel: "For nothing is impossible with God." (Luke 1:37)
Jesus: "What is impossible with men is possible with God." (Luke 18:27)
Jesus: "I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." (Matthew 17:20)
Walking in the Spirit
Walking in the Spirit
When you are walking with a portable radio, sometimes you have to adjust the antenna and retune the station to get the best signal. In the same way, learn to walk with the Holy Spirit, constantly seeking to stay attuned to his voice.
"If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit." (Galatians 5:25, RSV)
We believers have an immense privilege: to have God live within our bodies by his Spirit and to be able to follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit. These are more than words. They are a reality. So I encourage you to press into God, get to know him, learn how his Spirit works. There is absolutely no limit to what God can do with a person who loves him and seeks him.
Prayer
Prayer
Lord, my faith is often too small. Break open my faith so that I might see you clearly and learn to trust your Holy Spirit to work through me powerfully. Form Jesus in me, I pray, as I seek to walk by the Spirit. In his name, I pray. Amen.
Memory Verse
Memory Verse
"And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever -- the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you." (John 14:16-17, NIV)
Questions and Discussion Points
Questions and Discussion Points
Note for the Mentor: This lesson is a bit harder to grasp, though the principles are simple and basic. Why don't you ask your pastor to join you for this lesson, if that's possible.
Read aloud five times today's memory verse (John 14:16-17) and write it on a card.Discuss. Why is the Holy Spirit harder to visualize than the Father and the Son? What do you think is the significance of "Spirit" as breath or wind?Discuss. Before you were a Christian, did you ever sense the Holy Spirit drawing you to Christ, convicting you of your sins, or convincing you of the truth of Jesus?Discuss. How does walking closely with the Spirit help you when you're tempted?Discuss. Have you noticed any change in your character and values since you've become a Christian? Which of the fruits of the Spirit mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23 have begun to show up in your character so far?Discuss. What gifts of the Spirit does your mentor think he or she has? What gifts of the Spirit do you suspect that you might have?Discuss. Why is it so important to discern what gift or gifts you have and then spend time and energy there?Discuss. Why do you think we are so quick to think things are impossible? If God is living with you by his Spirit, is there anything impossible to you?Review your memory verses from Lesson 1 (Ephesians 2:8-9), Lesson 2 (John 8:31-32), Lesson 3 (1 John 1:9), Lesson 4 (John 13:34-35), Lesson 5 (1 John 4:7-8), and Lesson 6 (John 3:16).�Try to say them together with your mentor without looking at your cards.Pray for each other. Share with your mentor your needs to pray about and ask your mentor how you should pray for him or her. Then spend a few minutes praying for each other aloud.Appointment. Set a time and place to meet and go through next week's lesson.
IV} The Angel of the Lord Confronts Balaam (Numbers 22:22-35)
IV} The Angel of the Lord Confronts Balaam (Numbers 22:22-35)
22 And God’s anger was kindled because he went: and the angel of the Lord stood in the way for an adversary against him. Now he was riding upon his ass, and his two servants were with him.
23 And the ass saw the angel of the Lord standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and the ass turned aside out of the way, and went into the field: and Balaam smote the ass, to turn her into the way.
24 But the angel of the Lord stood in a path of the vineyards, a wall being on this side, and a wall on that side.
25 And when the ass saw the angel of the Lord, she thrust herself unto the wall, and crushed Balaam’s foot against the wall: and he smote her again.
26 And the angel of the Lord went further, and stood in a narrow place, where was no way to turn either to the right hand or to the left.
27 And when the ass saw the angel of the Lord, she fell down under Balaam: and Balaam’s anger was kindled, and he smote the ass with a staff.
28 And the Lord opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?
29 And Balaam said unto the ass, Because thou hast mocked me: I would there were a sword in mine hand, for now would I kill thee.
30 And the ass said unto Balaam, Am not I thine ass, upon which thou hast ridden ever since I was thine unto this day? was I ever wont to do so unto thee? And he said, Nay.
31 Then the Lord opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the Lord standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and he bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face.
32 And the angel of the Lord said unto him, Wherefore hast thou smitten thine ass these three times? behold, I went out to withstand thee, because thy way is perverse before me:
33 And the ass saw me, and turned from me these three times: unless she had turned from me, surely now also I had slain thee, and saved her alive.
34 And Balaam said unto the angel of the Lord, I have sinned; for I knew not that thou stoodest in the way against me: now therefore, if it displease thee, I will get me back again.
35 And the angel of the Lord said unto Balaam, Go with the men: but only the word that I shall speak unto thee, that thou shalt speak. So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.
When Balaam saddled his donkey and headed to Moab with instructions from King Balak to curse Israel, the Bible tells us that the “Angel of the LORD took His stand in the way as an adversary against him” (Numbers 22: 22).
When Balaam saddled his donkey and headed to Moab with instructions from King Balak to curse Israel, the Bible tells us that the “Angel of the LORD took His stand in the way as an adversary against him” (Numbers 22: 22).
22 And God’s anger was kindled because he went: and the angel of the Lord stood in the way for an adversary against him. Now he was riding upon his ass, and his two servants were with him.
Balaam’s donkey did everything she could to avoid crossing paths with the Lord Jesus Christ, who planned to kill Balaam as he passed by.
Balaam’s donkey did everything she could to avoid crossing paths with the Lord Jesus Christ, who planned to kill Balaam as he passed by.
The donkey crossed over into a field, pushed herself against a wall, and even lay down in the middle of the road.
The donkey crossed over into a field, pushed herself against a wall, and even lay down in the middle of the road.
Balaam, unaware of the Lord’s presence, struck the donkey for her disobedience to his commands.
Balaam, unaware of the Lord’s presence, struck the donkey for her disobedience to his commands.
Then, “the LORD opened the mouth of the donkey, and she said to Balaam, ‘What have I done to you, that you have struck me these three times?...
Then, “the LORD opened the mouth of the donkey, and she said to Balaam, ‘What have I done to you, that you have struck me these three times?...
Am I not your donkey on which you have ridden, ever since I became yours, to this day?
Am I not your donkey on which you have ridden, ever since I became yours, to this day?
Was I ever disposed to do this to you?’” (Num 22: 28-30).
Was I ever disposed to do this to you?’” (Num 22: 28-30).
28 And the Lord opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?
29 And Balaam said unto the ass, Because thou hast mocked me: I would there were a sword in mine hand, for now would I kill thee.
30 And the ass said unto Balaam, Am not I thine ass, upon which thou hast ridden ever since I was thine unto this day? was I ever wont to do so unto thee? And he said, Nay.
1 Animals’ mouths, tongue muscles, and brains are not designed for human speech, so supernatural intervention was absolutely necessary for this to happen.
1 Animals’ mouths, tongue muscles, and brains are not designed for human speech, so supernatural intervention was absolutely necessary for this to happen.
“The LORD opened Balaam’s eyes, and he saw the Angel of the LORD standing in the way with His drawn sword in His hand; and he bowed his head and fell flat on his face” (Num 22: 31).
“The LORD opened Balaam’s eyes, and he saw the Angel of the LORD standing in the way with His drawn sword in His hand; and he bowed his head and fell flat on his face” (Num 22: 31).
31 Then the Lord opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the Lord standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and he bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face.
God has the power to use whatever means necessary to accomplish His will.
God has the power to use whatever means necessary to accomplish His will.
In this case, the Lord used a wicked and perverse false-prophet-for-hire (Num 22: 32) to bless and protect His chosen people.
In this case, the Lord used a wicked and perverse false-prophet-for-hire (Num 22: 32) to bless and protect His chosen people.
32 And the angel of the Lord said unto him, Wherefore hast thou smitten thine ass these three times? behold, I went out to withstand thee, because thy way is perverse before me:
V} Commander of the Lord’s Army Appears to Joshua ( Joshua 5:13-15 )
V} Commander of the Lord’s Army Appears to Joshua ( Joshua 5:13-15 )
13 And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted up his eyes and looked, and, behold, there stood a man over against him with his sword drawn in his hand: and Joshua went unto him, and said unto him, Art thou for us, or for our adversaries?
14 And he said, Nay; but as captain of the host of the Lord am I now come. And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and did worship, and said unto him, What saith my lord unto his servant?
15 And the captain of the Lord’s host said unto Joshua, Loose thy shoe from off thy foot; for the place whereon thou standest is holy. And Joshua did so.
After the Israelites were delivered out of Egypt and had wandered in the wilderness for 40 years, God charged Joshua to lead the next generation to conquer Canaan.
After the Israelites were delivered out of Egypt and had wandered in the wilderness for 40 years, God charged Joshua to lead the next generation to conquer Canaan.
When Joshua was near Jericho, he “lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, a Man stood opposite him with His sword drawn in His hand.”
When Joshua was near Jericho, he “lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, a Man stood opposite him with His sword drawn in His hand.”
Joshua approached the Man and asked, “Are You for us or for our adversaries?” ( Josh 5: 13).
Joshua approached the Man and asked, “Are You for us or for our adversaries?” ( Josh 5: 13).
13 And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted up his eyes and looked, and, behold, there stood a man over against him with his sword drawn in his hand: and Joshua went unto him, and said unto him, Art thou for us, or for our adversaries?
“So [the Man] said, ‘No, but as Commander of the army of the LORD I have now come.’
“So [the Man] said, ‘No, but as Commander of the army of the LORD I have now come.’
And Joshua fell on his face to the earth and worshiped” (Josh 5: 14).
And Joshua fell on his face to the earth and worshiped” (Josh 5: 14).
The Man, the Lord Jesus Christ, let Joshua know exactly who was and is in charge.
The Man, the Lord Jesus Christ, let Joshua know exactly who was and is in charge.
“Then the Commander of the LORD’s army said to Joshua, ‘Take your sandal off your foot, for the place where you stand is holy.’ And Joshua did so” (Josh 5: 15).
“Then the Commander of the LORD’s army said to Joshua, ‘Take your sandal off your foot, for the place where you stand is holy.’ And Joshua did so” (Josh 5: 15).
Joshua’s encounter with Christ encouraged him to begin the conquest of Canaan and fulfill God’s promise to Abraham (Genesis 12:7).
Joshua’s encounter with Christ encouraged him to begin the conquest of Canaan and fulfill God’s promise to Abraham (Genesis 12:7).
7 And the Lord appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land: and there builded he an altar unto the Lord, who appeared unto him.
VI} The Angel of the Lord Visits Manoah and His Wife (Judges 13)
VI} The Angel of the Lord Visits Manoah and His Wife (Judges 13)
1 And the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the Lord; and the Lord delivered them into the hand of the Philistines forty years.
2 And there was a certain man of Zorah, of the family of the Danites, whose name was Manoah; and his wife was barren, and bare not.
3 And the angel of the Lord appeared unto the woman, and said unto her, Behold now, thou art barren, and bearest not: but thou shalt conceive, and bear a son.
4 Now therefore beware, I pray thee, and drink not wine nor strong drink, and eat not any unclean thing:
5 For, lo, thou shalt conceive, and bear a son; and no rasor shall come on his head: for the child shall be a Nazarite unto God from the womb: and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines.
6 Then the woman came and told her husband, saying, A man of God came unto me, and his countenance was like the countenance of an angel of God, very terrible: but I asked him not whence he was, neither told he me his name:
7 But he said unto me, Behold, thou shalt conceive, and bear a son; and now drink no wine nor strong drink, neither eat any unclean thing: for the child shall be a Nazarite to God from the womb to the day of his death.
8 Then Manoah intreated the Lord, and said, O my Lord, let the man of God which thou didst send come again unto us, and teach us what we shall do unto the child that shall be born.
9 And God hearkened to the voice of Manoah; and the angel of God came again unto the woman as she sat in the field: but Manoah her husband was not with her.
10 And the woman made haste, and ran, and shewed her husband, and said unto him, Behold, the man hath appeared unto me, that came unto me the other day.
11 And Manoah arose, and went after his wife, and came to the man, and said unto him, Art thou the man that spakest unto the woman? And he said, I am.
12 And Manoah said, Now let thy words come to pass. How shall we order the child, and how shall we do unto him?
13 And the angel of the Lord said unto Manoah, Of all that I said unto the woman let her beware.
14 She may not eat of any thing that cometh of the vine, neither let her drink wine or strong drink, nor eat any unclean thing: all that I commanded her let her observe.
15 And Manoah said unto the angel of the Lord, I pray thee, let us detain thee, until we shall have made ready a kid for thee.
16 And the angel of the Lord said unto Manoah, Though thou detain me, I will not eat of thy bread: and if thou wilt offer a burnt offering, thou must offer it unto the Lord. For Manoah knew not that he was an angel of the Lord.
17 And Manoah said unto the angel of the Lord, What is thy name, that when thy sayings come to pass we may do thee honour?
18 And the angel of the Lord said unto him, Why askest thou thus after my name, seeing it is secret?
19 So Manoah took a kid with a meat offering, and offered it upon a rock unto the Lord: and the angel did wondrously; and Manoah and his wife looked on.
20 For it came to pass, when the flame went up toward heaven from off the altar, that the angel of the Lord ascended in the flame of the altar. And Manoah and his wife looked on it, and fell on their faces to the ground.
21 But the angel of the Lord did no more appear to Manoah and to his wife. Then Manoah knew that he was an angel of the Lord.
22 And Manoah said unto his wife, We shall surely die, because we have seen God.
23 But his wife said unto him, If the Lord were pleased to kill us, he would not have received a burnt offering and a meat offering at our hands, neither would he have shewed us all these things, nor would as at this time have told us such things as these.
24 And the woman bare a son, and called his name Samson: and the child grew, and the Lord blessed him.
25 And the Spirit of the Lord began to move him at times in the camp of Dan between Zorah and Eshtaol.
The Lord Jesus Christ appeared again in the time of the Judges during a 40-year period when Israel was oppressed by the Philistines.
The Lord Jesus Christ appeared again in the time of the Judges during a 40-year period when Israel was oppressed by the Philistines.
He visited an unnamed woman who had been unable to bear children for many years: “Indeed now, you are barren and have borne no children, but you shall conceive and bear a son….and no razor shall come upon his head, for the child shall be a Nazirite to God from the womb; and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines” ( Judges 13:3-5 ).
He visited an unnamed woman who had been unable to bear children for many years: “Indeed now, you are barren and have borne no children, but you shall conceive and bear a son….and no razor shall come upon his head, for the child shall be a Nazirite to God from the womb; and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines” ( Judges 13:3-5 ).
3 And the angel of the Lord appeared unto the woman, and said unto her, Behold now, thou art barren, and bearest not: but thou shalt conceive, and bear a son.
4 Now therefore beware, I pray thee, and drink not wine nor strong drink, and eat not any unclean thing:
5 For, lo, thou shalt conceive, and bear a son; and no rasor shall come on his head: for the child shall be a Nazarite unto God from the womb: and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines.
This prophecy foretold the life of Samson.
When the woman told her husband, Manoah, about the encounter, Manoah prayed that the “Man of God” would come again and teach them what to do ( Judges 13: 8).
This prophecy foretold the life of Samson.
When the woman told her husband, Manoah, about the encounter, Manoah prayed that the “Man of God” would come again and teach them what to do ( Judges 13: 8).
8 Then Manoah intreated the Lord, and said, O my Lord, let the man of God which thou didst send come again unto us, and teach us what we shall do unto the child that shall be born.
The Lord Jesus visited and spoke with both of them.
The Lord Jesus visited and spoke with both of them.
Manoah offered to feed his guest. “The Angel of the LORD said to Manoah, ‘Though you detain Me, I will not eat your food.
Manoah offered to feed his guest. “The Angel of the LORD said to Manoah, ‘Though you detain Me, I will not eat your food.
But if you offer a burnt offering, you must offer it to the LORD.’ (For Manoah did not know He was the Angel of the LORD)” (Judges 13: 16).
But if you offer a burnt offering, you must offer it to the LORD.’ (For Manoah did not know He was the Angel of the LORD)” (Judges 13: 16).
16 And the angel of the Lord said unto Manoah, Though thou detain me, I will not eat of thy bread: and if thou wilt offer a burnt offering, thou must offer it unto the Lord. For Manoah knew not that he was an angel of the Lord.
“So Manoah took the young goat with the grain offering, and offered it upon the rock to the LORD.
“So Manoah took the young goat with the grain offering, and offered it upon the rock to the LORD.
And He did a wondrous thing while Manoah and his wife looked on—it happened as the flame went up toward heaven from the altar—the Angel of the LORD ascended in the flame of the altar!” (Judges 13: 19-20).
And He did a wondrous thing while Manoah and his wife looked on—it happened as the flame went up toward heaven from the altar—the Angel of the LORD ascended in the flame of the altar!” (Judges 13: 19-20).
19 So Manoah took a kid with a meat offering, and offered it upon a rock unto the Lord: and the angel did wondrously; and Manoah and his wife looked on.
20 For it came to pass, when the flame went up toward heaven from off the altar, that the angel of the Lord ascended in the flame of the altar. And Manoah and his wife looked on it, and fell on their faces to the ground.
Manoah and his wife fell on their faces to the ground. “When the Angel of the LORD appeared no more to Manoah and his wife, then Manoah knew that He was the Angel of the LORD. And Manoah said to his wife, ‘We shall surely die, because we have seen God!’” (Judges 13: 21-22). But she contended that God would not have accepted their burnt offering or foretold Samson’s birth had He intended to kill them.
“So the woman bore a son and called his name Samson; and the child grew, and the LORD blessed him” (Judges 13: 24).
Manoah and his wife fell on their faces to the ground. “When the Angel of the LORD appeared no more to Manoah and his wife, then Manoah knew that He was the Angel of the LORD. And Manoah said to his wife, ‘We shall surely die, because we have seen God!’” (Judges 13: 21-22). But she contended that God would not have accepted their burnt offering or foretold Samson’s birth had He intended to kill them.
“So the woman bore a son and called his name Samson; and the child grew, and the LORD blessed him” (Judges 13: 24).
21 But the angel of the Lord did no more appear to Manoah and to his wife. Then Manoah knew that he was an angel of the Lord.
22 And Manoah said unto his wife, We shall surely die, because we have seen God.
VII}The Fourth Man in the Fire (Daniel 3:16-28)
VII}The Fourth Man in the Fire (Daniel 3:16-28)
16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter.
17 If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.
18 But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.
19 Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego: therefore he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated.
20 And he commanded the most mighty men that were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace.
21 Then these men were bound in their coats, their hosen, and their hats, and their other garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.
22 Therefore because the king’s commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flame of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego.
23 And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.
24 Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonied, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellers, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king.
25 He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.
26 Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, came forth of the midst of the fire.
27 And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king’s counsellers, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them.
28 Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king’s word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God.
King Nebuchadnezzar commanded the people of Babylon to bow down to his idol at the trumpet’s sound.
King Nebuchadnezzar commanded the people of Babylon to bow down to his idol at the trumpet’s sound.
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, exiles from Israel, refused to worship anyone but the Lord.
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, exiles from Israel, refused to worship anyone but the Lord.
Their refusal angered the king, and he commanded they be thrown into a fiery furnace, a seemingly unlikely place for a glorious theophany.
Their refusal angered the king, and he commanded they be thrown into a fiery furnace, a seemingly unlikely place for a glorious theophany.
“Then King Nebuchadnezzar was astonished…‘Did we not cast three men bound into the midst of the fire?...
“Then King Nebuchadnezzar was astonished…‘Did we not cast three men bound into the midst of the fire?...
Look!...I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire; and they are not hurt, and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God’” (Dan 3: 24-25).
Look!...I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire; and they are not hurt, and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God’” (Dan 3: 24-25).
24 Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonied, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellers, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king.
25 He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.
The king called the men to come out of the fire and discovered that “the hair of their head was not singed nor were their garments affected, and the smell of fire was not on them” (Dan 3: 27).
The king called the men to come out of the fire and discovered that “the hair of their head was not singed nor were their garments affected, and the smell of fire was not on them” (Dan 3: 27).
27 And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king’s counsellers, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them.
Scholars debate whether the fourth man in the fire was the pre-incarnate Christ or one of God’s mighty angels.
Scholars debate whether the fourth man in the fire was the pre-incarnate Christ or one of God’s mighty angels.
Nebuchadnezzar described the man as one “like a son of the gods” [literal translation] and later calls him “His Angel.”
Nebuchadnezzar described the man as one “like a son of the gods” [literal translation] and later calls him “His Angel.”
But the dramatic imagery of this event, followed by praise for God by a pagan king, is undeniable.
But the dramatic imagery of this event, followed by praise for God by a pagan king, is undeniable.
“Nebuchadnezzar spoke, saying, ‘Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, who sent His Angel and delivered His servants who trusted in Him, and they have frustrated the king’s word, and yielded their bodies, that they should not serve nor worship any god except their own God’” (Dan 3: 28).
“Nebuchadnezzar spoke, saying, ‘Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, who sent His Angel and delivered His servants who trusted in Him, and they have frustrated the king’s word, and yielded their bodies, that they should not serve nor worship any god except their own God’” (Dan 3: 28).
28 Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king’s word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God.
When God enacts a miracle, He supernaturally controls all details so that His power is unmistakable, and there is no other explanation!
When God enacts a miracle, He supernaturally controls all details so that His power is unmistakable, and there is no other explanation!