Mal. 3:16 Then those who feared the Lord talked often one to another; and the Lord listened and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him of those who reverenced and worshipfully feared the Lord and who thought on His name.

Welcome To The Light-Washed Path,

Jesus abides in bonds between friends in faith. He seeks out the fellowship of those who seek Him together. There is a divine affinity God shares with those who partner together in their faith. When you form a bond of shared faith with a spouse or close friend; one where your weaknesses, hopes and secret passions are handled with prayer and godly counsel; this becomes the fertile ground of your personal growth. This becomes the sanctuary of your spiritual life. The Lord Himself is drawn into these holy alliances, and they become the place of discipleship for sincere followers. Such relationships are built on the very virtues that attract God to us: honesty, accountability and dedication. People who form true friends in faith become strong people, free of worldly dependence because they share their dependence upon God with one another. They are less likely to fall under the trap of hypocrisy because they don’t carry around heavy dark burdens that they need to hide. They are less likely to be afflicted with insecurities and tormented by fears of others’ opinions, because they are engaged in relationship(s) that God Himself is active in. They know where they stand, good or bad, and there is always a path of hope before them.

These are people who truly care enough about their life with God to set aside their natural desire for anonymity in order to find confirmation in the trust of fellow pilgrims. If people will risk reproof to gain objectivity because of their mutual love for God, then this is the relationship that God will enter. This is where the believer truly develops as a Christian. The rugged individualist becomes that much more capable when he or she submits “self” to a common bond forged in the intimacy of Christ.

Such bonds grow far beyond common interests and stimulating conversation. In the spirit of true covenanting, these are friendships that have formed over time, on the bedrock of accountability. Like the old saying, “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink”, so these are friendships that are chosen. Even marriages must choose to become friends in faith. God is drawn to the fellowship between friends in faith because of the deep level of human will and sincerity being exercised between them in pursuit of righteous. Paul and Silas, David and Jonathan, Peter, James and John, Mary and Elizabeth. Throughout the scripture we see a history of the power of God that is threaded through the eyes of friendships in faith.

The elements of a friend-in-faith relationship are simple:

• A partner(s)

• Absolute honesty

• Sincere desire for God

• Effort and time

• Love for Jesus

And these must prevail over the natural tendencies towards:

• Anonymity

• Procrastination

• Depression

• Self-centeredness

• Ego

Regardless how strong the common interest of hobbies that may bring them together, hunger for the Truth of God’’s Word will rule the relationship of true friends in faith. It is through such relationship that the Lord performs His will among men. If the reality of having Jesus as your Savior is dear to you, then being engaged in a fruitful friendship of faith will be fulfilling. Friendships in faith are the natural outgrowth of genuine appreciation for salvation. God is “mighty” in the midst of friends in faith.

Stay On The Path!

Mal. 3:16 Then those who feared the Lord talked often one to another; and the Lord listened and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him of those who reverenced and worshipfully feared the Lord and who thought on His name.

Welcome To The Light-Washed Path,

Notice in the text that those who feared the Lord, “talked often one to another, and the Lord listened”. To have God’’s ear is life’’s greatest asset. Some people have armies, some have wealth, some possess influence, and some are surrounded with advisors. But none of those things can produce blessing over your life. Only God Himself can bless you. And when you’re blessed, better than insurance, you’’re assured. The Lord is in the midst of two or more people that fellowship together around the things of God.

Zeph. 3:17 The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.

We often say that God visits those who pray a lot, those who read the Bible and work in church ministry, have a humble heart or avoid sin. These all sound like good “holy reasons” for God to enter into dialogue with someone. But as good as these things are, they impress men more than they impress God. So what really impresses God? Well let’s considered what He has said Himself in His Word to us. Before we look at the Word just nurture this thought for a minute:

The fast track to blessing is to find out what God has said in His Word and DO IT…

Psa. 133:1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is For brothers to dwell together in unity!

Psa. 133:2 It is like the precious oil upon the head…

Psa. 133:3 It is like the dew of Mt. Hermon, Coming down upon the mountains of Zion; For there the LORD commanded the blessing — life forever.

Look at that! God has ordered a standing command to bless those who unite in their fellowship with Him. The unity he refers to isn’t the absence of bickering as much as it is the presence of faith-inspiring conversation. Jesus told the disciples – and by extension, He tells us – that He will personally be in the midst of two or more who form a consensus of faith on His Word.

Matt. 18:20 “For where two or three have gathered together in My name, there I am in their midst.”

That doesn’t mean two or more simply gathering in a church that lifts up His name. It means that those gathering are bolstering their own faith, discussing the Word of God together. They are preaching one another up. This draws the proactive Presence of the Lord to YOUR life! Fellowship together isn’t eating at restaurants after church, going to movies or attending church picnics. It could be, depending on what you talk about together when gathering. But being gathered together in His name involves much more of a bond than simply a handshake and a shared church membership. It refers to developing a friendship based in discovering Christ together, working together in His Kingdom, and sharing a dedication to building up the faith of one another.

True Friends in Faith are attracted to the divine gifts in one another. Paul explained that in a true spiritual body of people, their unions would be forged by interlocking gifts of grace and service.

Eph. 4:16 For because of Him the whole body (the church, in all its various parts), closely joined and firmly knit together by the joints and ligaments with which it is supplied, when each part [with power adapted to its need] is working properly [in all its functions], grows to full maturity, building itself up in love.

People of like faith and gifting attract each other. A foot never knew it’s worth or purpose in God’’s plan until it met a leg. And then, just as Paul states in the above verse, the “joint supplies strength”. That means that Jesus is actively in the midst of that friendship, where love for Him is being shared, and He is pouring His blessings into it! Forming friendships that glorify God is the basic essential byproduct of the Gospel in your life. And as you give yourself to it the Lord blesses and increases you. I have never seen a sincere lover of Christ, who made it their aim to establish mutual spiritual friendships, ever fall or live a stagnant life. They are always progressing, always triumphing through their trials.

Psa. 84:7 They go from strength to strength [increasing in victorious power]; each of them appears before God in Zion.

Stay On The Path!

Mal. 3:16 Then those who feared the Lord talked often one to another; and the Lord listened and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him of those who reverenced and worshipfully feared the Lord and who thought on His name.

Welcome To The Light-Washed Path,

Do you have a “friend-in-faith”? Spiritual companionship is one of life’’s highest priorities. We are social creatures, needing affirmation and encouragement in the pursuit of life’‘s highest values. Doubt, depression and rebellion seem to need no encourager, as they apparently operate by default. But cultivating the true treasures of life requires the support of friends. God Himself saw that it was not good for man to dwell alone. And as long as the two partnered together in obedience to God, their efforts were blessed with exponential success. In a world that smothers our incentive for God, it’’s His plan that we have friends to encourage our faith. `

God listens in to the conversations between friends who share their faith in Him. He takes note, with the intent to preserve and bless them. God involves Himself with people who establish genuine fellowship partners with whom they share their spiritual insights, trials and questions.

Mal. 3:16 Then those who feared the Lord talked often one to another; and the Lord listened and heard it,

The power of spiritual agreement is always at work in them. It’’s very hard to defeat someone who has bound themselves in a spiritual friendship with others. The accountability they share creates an atmosphere of Light, making it near impossible for Satan to find a cover of darkness from under which to operate.

Eccl. 4:12 And though a man might prevail against him who is alone, two will withstand him. A threefold cord is not quickly broken.

Spiritual loners usually end up easily defeated because their fellowship with God is often too infrequent to stave off the assaults of the devil against them.

Mal. 3:16 Then those who feared the Lord talked often one to another;

It’’s too easy to slide the truly valuable things onto the back burner when you go it alone in your walk with the Lord. No wonder the devil pushes so hard to legitimize the secular notion that spirituality is a highly private matter. Yes, and he wishes to keep it so “private” that the believer dies spiritually of neglect. But we will see as this devotional continues, that God resides in the midst of His people. He moves along the fellowship currents of friends in faith.

Stay On The Path!

Heb. 1:8 But of the Son he says, Your seat of power, O God, is forever and ever; and the rod of your kingdom is a rod of righteousness.

Heb. 1:9 You have been a lover of righteousness and a hater of evil; and so God, your God, has put the oil of joy on your head more than on the heads of those who are with you.

Welcome To The Light-Washed Path,

(from yesterday’s edition)

“The opposite of love isn’t hate, but indifference.” - Ellie Wiesel (Holocaust Survivor)

Indifference to evil is not only the opposite of love but the indication that love is vacant. No true love can tolerate evil. No true love can abide neutral in the presence of evil and continue to call itself “love”. For love, by proper definition, springs from love for truth and righteousness. Love for God is the fountainhead of all true love. So hate for evil is the natural flip side to love for righteousness. The one who has no capacity to hate what is evil has no ability to love what is righteous.

The failure of our leaders to hate evil is one of the greatest corruptions of our modern culture. When men and women, with no ability to identify evil for what it is, head up our nations, sit as judges, write laws, teach our youth, lead our congregations and form our public policies, we have no defense against wickedness. When poor children are left under the guardianship of mothers with no internal revulsion for wicked men, they always become their helpless victims. It is the most grievous of all abuses, when the protected are sacrificed by stewards of authority who refuse to stand against wickedness. Judges who release child-molesting beasts upon society should serve in the jail cells with them when they re-offend. While self-distracted people whine and moan about gas prices, our society’s refusal to hate and react against evil is quickly depleting our most important energy resource. Hand-wringing collegiates run around foaming over destruction of the environment, but have no concern whatsoever over the erosion of our real context for survival: loving righteousness and hating evil.

The evil of Islamic fascism only succeeds because the stewards of free nations lack the orientation to see evil, the heart to hate it, and the will to defeat it. In America the Executive branch of Government is the only one with a will to fight this evil. The President (Bush) struggles in an uphill battle because he has to drag a reluctant and obstructive Congress and Judiciary behind him every step of the way. Why? Because they cannot bring themselves to see evil for what it is. “Sympathy For The Devil” may have to replace our National Anthem, as evil is being given a massive makeover by the combined forces of government, academia, the press and the entertainment industry. With the exception of the church (and that just barely), all the great centers of public influence are working in concert to smear lipstick on the evil pig and give it a facelift.

Treating rebellion against God as a virtue has long been the practice of public leaders. This was King Saul’s big problem. God had left him with instructions through the Prophet Samuel, to wipe out the Amalekites. But King Saul failed to discern the evil of the Amalekites and spared their king and livestock. When the Prophet Samuel arrived at the battle scene King Saul presented his compromise as some kind of elevated act of conscience. He excused his disobedience to God as an act of righteousness, just as many today do when they defy the claims of God by presenting their so-called morality as a higher love.

1 Sam. 15:22 And Samuel said, Has the Lord as much delight in offerings and burned offerings as in the doing of his orders? Truly, to do his pleasure is better than to make offerings, and to give ear to him than the fat of sheep.

1 Sam. 15:23 For to go against his orders is like the sin of those who make use of secret arts, and pride is like giving worship to images. Because you have put away from you the word of the Lord, he has put you from your place as king.

1 Sam. 15:24, 30 And Saul said to Samuel, Great is my sin: for I have gone against the orders of the Lord and against your words: because, fearing the people, I did what they said…but still, give me honor now before the heads of my people and before Israel, and come back with me so that I may give worship to the Lord your God.

No morality that fails to hate wickedness, has ever known righteousness.

No morality that fails to spit-out wickedness, has ever tasted righteousness.

But righteousness is not a collective political condition. You can’t get righteousness out of 100 hypocrites who agree to social reform. Jesus said that love for righteousness has to be practiced at home before it can be exported to the marketplace.

Luke 6:41 “And why do you look at the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?

Luke 6:42 “Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take out the speck that is in your eye,’ when you yourself do not see the log that is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take out the speck that is in your brother’s eye.

Tolerating the works of wickedness, when they appear within the sphere of your own responsibility, is a sure sign that you’re not operating from a Love for Righteousness. This was the downfall of the kingdoms of Israel & Judah. Ultimately it wasn’t their failure to school or correct the ungodly nations around them, but the refusal to purge evil from their own midst, that brought the downfall of the Jewish kingdoms. Knowing the difference between true righteousness and evil obligates us to be stewards over our own responsibilities before trying to school others.

The downfall of the Jewish Pharisees was that they tolerated compromise with evil in their own lives while enforcing strict religious codes on others. This is why they were the only people that Jesus publicly denounced as hypocrites. While the Jewish leaders imposed the harshest sanctions against certain sinners, they shamelessly tolerated their own sins and those from whom they stood to gain political advantages. So their so-called love for righteousness was a front for their own tolerance for evil.

Tolerance of wickedness reveals the absence of righteousness.

So tolerance of wickedness IS wickedness.

“The opposite of love isn’t hate, but indifference.”  - Ellie Wiesel

Looking at history, we can see that the Hand of God had raised up many leaders because of their love of righteousness and hate for evil, but was later removed when they began to tolerate corruption. To be exalted by the Hand of God, with His anointing upon your head, one must share His virtues and reasonings. This is what was said of Jesus:

…therefore God, thy God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness above your fellows.

The world likes to use Jesus as an example of love to promote their agenda of false righteousness. They site His sayings about love, in attempt to use Him as an endorser of social tolerance for sexual sin and political pacifism. The wicked hate scrutiny and always try to divert the condemnation of righteous judgment by criticizing it as unloving. They use the symbols of righteousness to cover themselves. Every counterfeit endorses the genuine by their existence. It’s no small wonder that evil hides itself within the gutted shell of love. A love with no allegiance to God is a convenient cloak for every self-justification. So true love is known by it’s fruit – including hate for evil and the will to oppose it.

2 John 1:6 And this is love that we walk after his commandments.

Stay On The Path!

Heb. 1:8 But of the Son he says, Your seat of power, O God, is forever and ever; and the rod of your kingdom is a rod of righteousness.

Heb. 1:9 You have been a lover of righteousness and a hater of evil; and so God, your God, has put the oil of joy on your head more than on the heads of those who are with you..

Welcome To The Light-Washed Path,

“The opposite of love isn’t hate, but indifference.”

- Ellie Wiesel (Holocaust Survivor)

Indifference to evil is not only the opposite of love but the indication that love is vacant. No true love can tolerate evil. No true love can abide neutral in the presence of evil and continue to call itself “love”. For love, by proper definition, springs from love for truth and righteousness. Love for God is the fountainhead of all true love. So hate for evil is the natural flip side to love for righteousness. The one who has no capacity to hate what is evil has no ability to love what is righteous.

Edmund Burke is universally credited with the famous maxim:

“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”

Although no one has been able to nail down that exact quote in any of Burke’’s writings, the following quote is taken from Burke and amounts to the same point:

“When bad men combine, the good must associate; else they will fall one by one, an unpitied sacrifice in a contemptible struggle.”

However stated, the message is universally true: Evil will, so good must! No sentiment, which presents itself as good, noble or lofty, while at the same time, refusing to see evil and hate it, can ever claim to be love. It is misguided philanthropy at best and heartless self-interest at worst.

The byproduct of prosperity is forgetfulness. Those who inherit the prosperity, which their forefathers fought evil forces to obtain, all too often act as though they themselves invented peace and are worthy of it. They look with contempt upon the battles fought against evil as they lift themselves up in erudite condescension.They see themselves as “too good” to hate evil. But they are, in reality, unworthy of the peace they have inherited and sure to lose it to the evil they ignore.

Jesus is exalted because He loves righteousness and hates evil.

Heb. 1:9 You have been a lover of righteousness and a hater of evil; and so God, your God, has put the oil of joy on your head more than on the heads of those who are with you.

But there are those today, who claim that their love has no room for hate. They say that because of love they have been elevated above hate and are free from it.They have become elevated above the ability to hate anything, and they see their position as being superior and an example of true love. In the name of tolerance and in an effort to respect everybody, they bind themselves into a paralyzing inability to act against evil. They have become so objective that they can’’t even stir themselves to be angry at it. But objectivity that fails to brace itself against the righteousness of God, and position itself upon the mount of His Word, is doomed to float weightless without a point.

2 Tim. 3:1-7 But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. For men will be lovers of self…holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; and avoid such men as these. For among them are those who enter into households and captivate weak women weighed down with sins, led on by various impulses, always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.

This false objectivity, this failure to love righteousness because it might conflict with someone else’s ideas and appear intolerant, is not love. It’’s indecision. It’’s immorality by default.

For love is not the absence of hate, because hate in itself is not sin. Some hate certainly is sin.

Titus 3:3 For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.

Hating God is sin. Hating righteousness is sin. Hating those who love righteousness is sin. The humanistic repulsion against righteousness, and the natural tendency to rebel against it, that is a hate for righteousness, and that is sin.

1 John 5:17 All unrighteousness is sin…

So how can one say he loves others but by not hating evil he fails to love righteousness. By his “love and understanding” for evil he takes sides against God and His righteousness.

Luke 11:23 “He who is not with Me is against Me; and he who does not gather with Me, scatters.” - Jesus Christ

But Hate has its place too. Hate for evil is the appropriate response of love for righteousness. The two are inseparable.

So where do we apply this tension between love and hate? Do we attack the world like crusaders, righting the wrongs?

Some answers tomorrow, so until then……

Stay On The Path!

Psa. 74:9 We see not our signs: there is no more any prophet: neither is there among us any that know how long.

Welcome To The Light-Washed Path,

From yesterday:

The Church of Acts came with “signs”. These were indicators that “God was in the house”.  These signs told the world who we were. In Psalm 74 the writer laments at being stripped of the signs that had indicated God’s presence with them. Without the presence of their signs, Israel was adrift in confusion and in peril of losing their identity.

These signs not only tell the world who we are, but they tell us Who we belong to. Since there is no scriptural evidence that God ever intended to change His Church, until He returns we should remain under our signs. If we don’t see these signs today we should cry out in prayer till our signs manifest once again.

And now continuing with our 16^th and final sign:

Growth -

This final sign of the early Church of Acts is not a ruler but a principle. Jesus describes the Church as a grapevine that produces fruit. Notice that in Jesus’ model of the Church HE IS A MEMBER!

John 15:5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

John 15:8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.

Fruitfulness refers to increase, and the key to it involves your relationship with Jesus, the Vine. The members of the Church are to ALL see themselves with responsibility for increase. But running out and just trying to drag people into the church doesn’t fulfill that responsibility. The secret to fulfilling the command of God to Grow begins with the Church practicing right relationship to Jesus. First off, Jesus said:

John 12:32 And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.

To understand what this means, and then to make sure it’s the defining motivation of all Church activity, is the beginning. The Bible actually tells us what the elements were that stimulated growth:

Acts 2:46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,

Acts 2:47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

Daily fellowship

Unity

Joy

Praise

The Lord did the adding

Acts 5:12 And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people…

Acts 5:14 And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.

Many signs and wonders (miracles, healings)

Acts 6:7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

The Gospel was spread

Acts 16:5 And so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in number daily.

Faith was the foundation (not religion)

We get the picture of a Church:

In love with Jesus,

Understanding His preeminence,

Yielded joyfully to His will,

Not ashamed to give witness,

Fellowshipping in Love,

Flowing in the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit,

Standing in Truth,

Walking in Faith

Let’s consider that the entire array of the Signs of the Church - our signs - are the necessary components that God placed within us in order for Growth to take place. We should cry out just as the Psalmist did:

Psa. 74:9 We see not our signs: there is no more any prophet: neither is there among us any that know how long.

And we should recognize that it’s abnormal to be separated from the supernatural elements of the Church. How do we truly embrace God, Who is Spirit, and there be no supernatural consequences? God never intended us to be an insulation, preventing His power from touching the world. But we are a conductor of His love and power, jolting the spiritually dead with the Life of Christ. Let’s throw the switch of fellowship with Jesus and get power flowing to Our Signs again!

Stay On The Path!

Psa. 74:9 We see not our signs: there is no more any prophet: neither is there among us any that know how long.

Welcome To The Light-Washed Path,

From yesterday:

The Church of Acts came with “signs”. These were indicators that “God was in the house”. These signs told the world who we were. In Psalm 74 the writer laments at being stripped of the signs that had indicated God’s presence with them. Without the presence of their signs, Israel was adrift in confusion and in peril of losing their identity.

These signs not only tell the world who we are, but they tell us Who we belong to. Since there is no scriptural evidence that God ever intended to change His Church, until He returns we should remain under our signs. If we don’t see these signs today we should cry out in prayer till our signs manifest once again.

And now continuing with our 15^th sign:

Praise -

This is the supernatural sign of response, from a grateful church to the victorious Savior. These are sentiments of love and appreciation, lifted in musical strains, shouts and declarations. Praise stands high above all other forms of music and expression, as the currents upon which God’s Presence travels. Praise, in musical form, is distinguished from other music by its content of Truth, selfless expression, and acknowledgement of God’s glory. There is a direct connection between Praise and being filled with the Holy Spirit.

Eph. 5:18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

Eph. 5:19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;

The idea is not that God gets pleasure from a cool groove, snappy tune or clever lyrics. But true Praise is full of the human will, humbling itself in the expression of Truth and gratitude before Almighty God. True Praise is never about boasting in man or wallowing in the self-pity of flesh. It’s always about exalting Jesus, the divine remedy for a sin-cursed world.

Col. 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

The Christians of Acts considered Praise as a part of their teaching. Today’s lifeless teaching of intellectual and theological facts has fallen so far from the place of Spirit-filled and Praise enhanced teaching. We could say that the early believers weren’t learning about God as much as they were experiencing Him. Intellectualism is what you’re left with when the Praise fades away.

Acts 16:25 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.

Acts 16:26 And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every oneís bands were loosed.

Here is but one Bible example of the Holy Spirit working powerfully to confirm the words of Praise, uttered boldly from the circumstances of a trial. Praise is a powerful sign!

Here are a few scriptures siting the God’s involvement with Praise:

Psa. 33:1 Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright.

“Comely” in Hebrew means To be at home. The Psalmist sees Praise as building a suitable house for God and the believer to meet in.

Psa. 34:3 O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together.

“magnify” in Hebrew means To twist together, make large. The Psalmist sees Praise as blending us together with God and making us large.

Psa. 48:1 Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised…

“greatly” in Hebrew refers to a poker that turns coals to make a vehement fire. The Psalmist sees Praise stirring the fire of God in our hearts.

These aren’t references to simple human passions or zeal, but rather show the ignition of divine glory and power in the life of those who live on the Praises of God.

Do we see this sign of Praise today?

One more sign to go…so…

Stay On The Path!

Psa. 74:9 We see not our signs: there is no more any prophet: neither is there among us any that know how long.

Welcome To The Light-Washed Path,

From yesterday:

The Church of Acts came with “signs”. These were indicators that “God was in the house”. These signs told the world who we were. In Psalm 74 the writer laments at being stripped of the signs that had indicated God’s presence with them. Without the presence of their signs, Israel was adrift in confusion and in peril of losing their identity.

These signs not only tell the world who we are, but they tell us Who we belong to. Since there is no scriptural evidence that God ever intended to change His Church, until He returns we should remain under our signs. If we don’t see these signs today we should cry out in prayer till our signs manifest once again.

And now continuing with our 13^th sign:

Liberality -

This was a great sign of the newly born Church of the risen Christ. Instantly, the other-worldly grace, filling their hearts with the treasures of Heaven, raised these new believers to a place of new priorities. The common Love of Jesus that filled them bound them in a oneness that transcended any social order.

Acts 2:44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common;

Acts 2:45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.

This Liberality was certainly not obligatory or an imposed socialism. It was a willingness to share that was spawned by the supernatural influence of the Holy Spirit. The scripture itself explains it as, “great grace was upon them all”. The “grace” meaning “gift”, tells us that they were so filled with the gifts of God that they were eager to help one another.

Acts 4:32 And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.

Acts 4:33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.

Acts 4:34 Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold,

Acts 4:35 And laid them down at the apostlesí feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.

This liberality was shared among the believers. It was not a welfare crusade for the poor. It was a demonstration of the Blood Covenant bond that made them one with each other. This oneness did not extend to the world. This was a demonstration of the oneness of the Body Of Christ. No denominational barriers had yet been erected.

1 Cor. 12:25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.

In recognizing Jesus in the other members of the Body of Christ, we immediately find an altar of sacrifice.

Gal. 6:10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

Do we see this sign of Liberality today?

Daily Fellowship -

The 14^th sign of the New Testament Church, found in Acts, is that they fellowshipped together daily. In today’s modern church, people would go crazy if they had to be together more than once or twice a week. No body could endure that much religion! But in the Church of Acts there was no religion; no obligation; no mind-numbing rituals. These early Christians were living a daily unfolding adventure. The Church wasn’t a place it was a person. They didn’t attend church they worked and worshipped together daily, as the church.

Acts 2:46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,

The early Christians didn’t fellowship together once every 7 days only. Though they did observe a weekly worship gathering, which quickly became the first day of the week (Sunday), these believers became a close knit community, knit together in the common love of the Lord that flowed among them. They were heavenly ambassadors, a family of faith, an elite corps of witnesses. They fellowshiped daily because each one had a share in their great commission. Without a personal zeal and love for Jesus guiding each individual’s heart, this sign of daily fellowship would be impossible. In fact, many a Christian have found in their lifetime, the absolute necessity of daily fellowship, as a support for spiritual lives. God has set the entire existence of man to move incrementally in 24 hr installments. If a man can manage a day well, he can manage a life. Consider what the Bible says:

Psa. 90:12 So teach us to number our days, that we may present to You a heart of wisdom.

Matt. 6:11 …Give us this day our daily bread.

Matt. 6:34 …Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.

Eph. 4:26 …let not the sun go down upon your wrath:

Life is meant to be maintained DAILY. If we are to live in the Kingdom of God, our walk with the Lord must be a daily walk. Trials and troubles are daily. Energy is depleted daily. Accounts must be zero’d out and balanced daily. Daily fellowship with our partners in faith, helps to keep us sharp, encouraged and on target. Daily Christian fellowship keeps us from drifting into the faith diffusing fog of the world. Satan cannot defeat the church whose fellowship is renewed daily.

Do we see this sign of Daily Fellowship today?

More signs tomorrow, so…

Stay On The Path!

Psa. 74:9 We see not our signs: there is no more any prophet: neither is there among us any that know how long.

Welcome To The Light-Washed Path,

From yesterday:

The Church of Acts came with “signs”. These were indicators that “God was in the house”. These signs told the world who we were. In Psalm 74 the writer laments at being stripped of the signs that had indicated God’s presence with them. Without the presence of their signs, Israel was adrift in confusion and in peril of losing their identity.

These signs not only tell the world who we are, but they tell us Who we belong to. Since there is no scriptural evidence that God ever intended to change His Church, until He returns we should remain under our signs. If we don’t see these signs today we should cry out in prayer till our signs manifest once again.

And now continuing with our 11^th sign

Fear Of The Lord -

The Church of Acts so wonderfully exemplified the Fear of the Lord. In reading the early chapters in Acts, a couple of characteristics stand out prominently in contrast to the “religious” churches of today. One is that they simply took God seriously.

Acts 9:31 Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied.

Consider how simple a definition of the fear of the Lord, that is: to simply take God seriously. If you fear the Lord you won’t ignore His claims or be indifferent to His call. Through the fear of the Lord they were able to “walk” with God. He wasn’t pushed off into the distance and thought of only in abstract terms. The very real and immediate relationship the early Christians had with Jesus is a powerful sign of the Church, and it’s made possible through the fear of the Lord.

The other characteristic of the Church Acts that exemplifies the fear of the Lord is that they simply found it impossible to dismiss the will of God. The Psalmist said:

Psa. 111:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments…

When you take God seriously you will know God seriously, and then it’s easy to do His will because you’re acting out of wisdom and not religious tyranny. Choice reigns in the heart of those that fear the Lord. There is no bit in their mouths, because the fear of the Lord has place wisdom in their hearts. The fear of the Lord is not the least bit oppressive, heavy or burdensome. Religion is a heavy yoke but the fear of the Lord is joyously clean.

Psa. 19:9 The fear of the LORD is clean (pure), enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.

Unity -

The 12^th sign of the Church of Acts is Unity. Unity was immediately manifested on the Day of Pentecost.

Acts 2:1 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.

Acts 2:46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness andsingleness of heart

It came from the inside out and not from the outside in. It wasn’t the result of agreements forged by a council. It had nothing whatsoever to do with a social or political agenda. The unity that’s a sign of the church belonging to the resurrected Christ, is the condition of hearts all surrendered in common agreement that Jesus is Life and serving Him is living.

Acts 5:12 And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomonís porch.

Acts 5:13 And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them.

Acts 5:14 And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.)

Acts 5:15 Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid themon beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them.

Anyone who thinks the unity that’s a sign of Christianity is some sociological script for tolerance, is outside looking in, and not seeing. This sign of Unity was a common motive they all shared. Everyone of them, regardless of their personalities, idiosyncrasies, or other diversities, had one over-arching motive, and that was to glorify Jesus Christ no matter what change it called for in them. They were all moldable in the Hands of the unchanging Master. This Unity begins with being in unity with the Lord Jesus, His mission and the Holy Spirit. Any unity that isn’t surrendered to the will of God is an alliance of rebellion. Unity by itself has no special virtue. But the purpose to which that unity owes its existence sifts discerningly before God. The Church is not a club it’s a Bride. We are not social workers, we’re servants of God. The sign of unity comes on the wings of the Holy Spirit, not the demands of a leader. This unity isn’t manufactured it’s pre-existent in the Holy Spirit. You either join it or you don’t

Eph. 4:3 Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

And the only hope that we will see each other there, when our faith is completed, is that we’ll all stay in the Unity of the Holy SpiritÖthe sign of the Church.

Eph. 4:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ

More signs to come tomorrow…so till then…

Stay On The Path!

Psa. 74:9 We see not our signs: there is no more any prophet: neither is there among us any that know how long.

Welcome To The Light-Washed Path,

From yesterday:

The Church of Acts came with “signs”. These were indicators that “God was in the house”. These signs told the world who we were. In Psalm 74 the writer laments at being stripped of the signs that had indicated God’s presence with them. Without the presence of their signs, Israel was adrift in confusion and in peril of losing their identity.

These signs not only tell the world who we are, but they tell us Who we belong to. Since there is no scriptural evidence that God ever intended to change His Church, until He returns we should remain under our signs. If we don’t see these signs today we should cry out in prayer till our signs manifest once again.

And now continuing with our 10^th sign:

Persecution -

Jesus had promised that persecution would follow the church. It was inevitable that the more filled with the Spirit of God, and the bolder they were in Christ’s mission, the more the disciples would be persecuted.

John 15:19 “If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you.”

John 3:19 “This is the judgment, that the Light has come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the Light, for their deeds were evil.

John 3:20 For everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come to the Light for fear that his deeds will be exposed.”

Jesus spelled it out like simple arithmetic. If you manifest the Light of God’s truth it will cause two very distinct reactions. The first is that the humble will come to the Light and be saved. The second is that the proud will hate and eventually fight against the Light. The Light of Christ eventually becomes the arch enemy of everyone who clings to their evil ways. His Light, His Gospel becomes the only real enemy of darkness, and the people of darkness will persecute the people of Light. No matter how they all try to maintain a congenial tolerance, the very nature of darkness will force the people in its grasp to persecute the bearers of Light. No tolerance can ever be permanent. Jesus said that, “the world would love its own (and)…everyone who does evil hates the Light.”

2 Tim. 3:12 Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.

The world uses Christians like social seasoning to make their immorality palatable. They like to hide behind their tolerance of religion as some kind of example of spiritual virtue. But the truth is - and Jesus warned of it - that the minute the Church doesn’t stay in lock-step with the political agendas of society, all that tolerance isn’t worth a bucket of spit. Through their social, intellectual and physical persecutions of Christians, the world shows itself for the dark hypocrites they are. Jerusalem’s citizens were inspired and amused at first, by the miracles and joy of the first Christians. But then when Stephen and others began telling the Truth about why Jesus died and the need of everyone to repent, the party came to an abrupt halt.

Acts 8:1 Saul was in hearty agreement with putting him (Stephen) to death. And on that day a great persecution began against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles.

This is typical of today’s secular culture. They love to showcase their fondness for the inner-city Gospel choirs. But watch the ugly comments and persecution arise the minute that choir stops singing and starts preaching about forgiveness from “sin” and Jesus being the only way; rather than “God loves everybody, and let’s all just get along”. Then that same choir is a subverted band of “haters”. Watch all the fake “Reverends” come out of the wood work to condemn the non-progressive hate-speech. The true bearers of Light will ALWAYS eventually become black-listed as “enemies of tolerance”. But true “Tolerance” demonstrates itself in the grace of God every time Christians are harassed.

Mark 4:17 and they have no firm root in themselves, but are only temporary; then, when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they fall away.

Persecution is ALWAYS aimed at the Word of the God. The quickest way to get persecution off your tail is to back off your public stand on God’s Word and testimony of Jesus. No one will be persecuted for being a Methodist, Episcopalian, Pentecostal, Catholic or Evangelical as long as they are willing to disassociate their religious affiliation from the Word of God.

Matt. 10:16 “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves.

Matt. 10:17 But beware of men, for they will hand you over to the courts and scourge you in their synagogues…“

Matt. 10:18 and you will even be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles.

Matt. 10:19 But when they hand you over, do not worry about how or what you are to say; for it will be given you in that hour what you are to say.

Matt. 10:20 For it is not you who speak, but it is the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.

True persecution isn’t suffering for your wrong doing or foolish behavior. That’s called punishment and consequences. But true persecution is suffering in innocence for the guiltless testimony of Jesus Christ, and His Gospel. There is a wonderful dynamic involved in true persecution. The Gospel attracts the persecution. The Word of God is actually attacked in an effort to censor it. But if faithful Christians will learn to navigate the treacherous waters of persecution “wisely” - not becoming wasted targets for foolish reasons; the Holy Spirit will place us before people to whom He wants us to give the Gospel. The Gospel cannot shine in the shadowy halls of compromise and accommodation. But if we are willing to be faithful, we will be humble Lights of God’s glory contrasted against the true violent nature of sin and secularism. Only then, can many of the trapped souls of the truly intolerant and hateful, see the Light of Freedom and come to salvation. Be faithful, be humble, preach the Word of Jesus’ Gospel, and let it take you where it will!

Do we see the sign of Persecution today?

More signs tomorrow…so till then…

Stay On The Path!

Psa. 74:9 We see not our signs: there is no more any prophet: neither is there among us any that know how long.

Welcome To The Light-Washed Path,

From yesterday:

The Church of Acts came with “signs”. These were indicators that “God was in the house”. These signs told the world who we were. In Psalm 74 the writer laments at being stripped of the signs that had indicated God’s presence with them. Without the presence of their signs, Israel was adrift in confusion and in peril of losing their identity.

These signs not only tell the world who we are, but they tell us Who we belong to. Since there is no scriptural evidence that God ever intended to change His Church, until He returns we should remain under our signs. If we don’t see these signs today we should cry out in prayer till our signs manifest once again.

And now continuing with our 8^th sign:

Preaching -

As suddenly as the Holy Ghost fell, preaching came forth. And it wasn’t just the Apostles doing the preaching.

Acts 8:4 Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.

Acts 8:5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.

Preaching is what happens when a Christian gets so full of the Holy Spirit that the glory of Jesus can’t be contained. Preaching doesn’t come from talent nor is it learned in school. It is an effect of the Holy Spirit upon a follower of Jesus who is willing to fulfill the great commission. Paul called it “Utterance”, and prayed to be endued with it.

Eph. 6:19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,

Col. 4:3 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:

Preaching is not an art, it’s an anointing. Preaching pierces the darkness-clad hearts of unbelievers, and presents salvation to lost souls.

1 Cor. 1:21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preachingto save them that believe.

Rom. 10:13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Rom. 10:14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?

While increasing numbers of young Christians seek ministry positions as musicians, entertainers, counselors, administrators and computer technicians, the call to preach is being almost completely ignored. Knowing that without preaching, few people will ever come to Jesus; it’s a sad marvel that there are so few Christians praying for the unction to preach.

Because sinners, without the grace of God upon their hearts, recoil in offense at the preaching of the Gospel, many Christians today have abandoned it. They are ashamed to preach, too proud, and overly concerned with their popularity among the unsaved. Preaching doesn’t fit today’s pop culture standards of social etiquette. But this is a culture that is crucifying Jesus to this day. And sprinkled among them are souls ready to hear and receive the Word of the Gospel. We must have Christians who are dead enough to the demands of the world, and alive enough to the burning love of God, to go into His harvest and throw out the lifeline of Truth.

Acts 9:18 And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.

Acts 9:20 And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.

There is a difference between skilled pulpiteers and powerful preachers. The power of preaching comes from conviction of the Truth and the anointing to speak it. The Baptism of the Holy Spirit is the qualifier for preaching. Early believers weren’t sent away to Bible School or Seminary to learn how to preach. They began preaching the Good News immediately after receiving it! You don’t need a formal education in order to simply tell people what Jesus has done for you, or to give the plain Gospel. There is a truly spiritual element in genuine preaching. Man thinks with his head and decides with his heart. And preaching cuts to the heart.

Do you see the sign of Preaching today?

Prophecy -

Prophecy is NOT preaching. Preaching is when men declare the Gospel to the lost. Prophecy is the Holy Spirit speaking to the church, through men. It is a divine source of edification when the Holy Spirit speaks to the Church. God is here, taking an active role in leading us. He is guiding us; publicly confirming and encouraging us in our gatherings.

Acts 13:1 Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.

Acts 13:2 As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.

The entire focus of Jesus Gospel was the orientation of God resident IN His people. Not just occasionally coming upon them. Not just visiting them. Not just occasionally reviving them. But LIVING IN them. Prophecy occurs when a believer, brimming with the Holy Spirit, is moved by the lord to speak forth a word from God. This isn’t a word from men about God; but a word from God for men.

Acts 19:6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.

Whether it was a Prophet, with a ministry-office in the Church, just like an Apostle, Evangelist, Pastor and teacher; or a Christian who simply prophesied…

Acts 21:9 And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.

Acts 21:10 And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus.

Acts 21:11 And when he was come unto us, he took Paulís girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.

The scripture encourages all Spirit-filled Christians to seek the Lord to be used in the simple Gift of Prophecy.

1 Cor. 14:1 Pursue love, yet desire earnestly spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy.

1 Cor. 14:39 Therefore, my brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak in tongues.

Through the sign of Prophecy, Jesus intimately continues to speak directly to His followers; imparting edification, exhortation and comfort. So many have abandoned this gift, leaving the churches swallowed up and drowning in the words of men. But Christians today desperately need the Word of the Lord flowing among them. A Word from on High, to distinguish them in a sea of words. A Word of dynamic divine Life that will release the holy fire of God’s presence upon the believers. One of the strong indicators of life in the church is Christians zealously seeking God to be used by the Holy Spirit to bless the church with Prophesying.

1 Cor. 14:5 Now I wish that you all spoke in tongues, but even more that you would prophesy; and greater is one who prophesies than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may receive edifying.

Do you see the sign of Prophesying today?

More signs tomorrow…so…

Stay On The Path!

Psa. 74:9 We see not our signs: there is no more any prophet: neither is there among us any that know how long.

Welcome To The Light-Washed Path,

From yesterday:

The Church of Acts came with “signs”. These were indicators that “God was in the house”. These signs told the world who we were. In Psalm 74 the writer laments at being stripped of the signs that had indicated God’s presence with them. Without the presence of their signs, Israel was adrift in confusion and in peril of losing their identity.

These signs not only tell the world who we are, but they tell us Who we belong to. Since there is no scriptural evidence that God ever intended to change His Church, until He returns we should remain under our signs. If we don’t see these signs today we should cry out in prayer till our signs manifest once again.

And now continuing with our 6^th sign:

Miracles…

The freshness of Jesus’ in their hearts made fertile ground for miracles. Never blame God for the lack of miracles. His Word compels us to keep Him fresh in our churches and His promises, believed in our hearts. Miracles aren’t mystical and never come as a result of arbitrary providence. They always occur in connection with God’s people exercising faith and obeying Him in a mission. The Church of Acts was full of them. And they weren’t limited to the Apostles, either.

Peter, short on change, gives the lame man begging at the Temple door, what HE had.

Acts 3:6 Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.

Acts 3:7 And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.

Acts 3:8 And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.

Man! Think about it. What do you have? Just Jesus? That’s all Peter had. Only he knew he was anointed to give what he had….just like you are! When you pray for people, give them something.

Miracles were flowing from plain ole church helpers and Deacons.

Acts 6:8 And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.

For those who think miracles are the special insignia of spiritual Field Marshalls, think again. Stephen’s secret is available to YOU!

“And Stephen, full of faith and power”

Philip went to the hated Samaritans with the good news that Jesus had risen for THEM. There he found out that he was an Evangelist. He didn’t go because he was an Evangelist; he went because he loved God. And he found out that Jesus’ was with him continuing His ministry of healing, deliverance and salvation as Philip preached.

Acts 8:6 And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.

Acts 8:7 For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed.

Acts 8:8 And there was great joy in that city.

Miracles don’t have recipes, but they sure do occur in certain environments. Look! See the hearts and lives of the Christians of Acts.

Do you see the sign of Miracles today?

Laying On Of Hands…

The 7^th sign on my list is not just religious symbolism, but the practice of imparting the Holy Spirit’s anointing. Through this impartation, by laying on of hands, healings, deliverance, Baptism in the Holy Spirit and ministry-gift impartations were given.

1 Tim. 4:14 Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.

Acts 19:6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.

Yes, God could have certainly chosen to impart these things without the agency of man. Perhaps it may have avoided the problems with human pride that have arisen, if He had. But that would have bypassed His entire purpose, which is to demonstrate His partnership WITH us.

Acts 8:17 Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.

Acts 8:18 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostlesí hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money,

God fearlessly risks applying His authority through the vulnerable vessels of mankind, because he is confident of the influence of His love upon us. He knows we will rise to faithfulness in Him. So then, God will have it no other way, but to let the world see His ministry applied through the laying on of OUR hands. It’s all about God working with us. If this sign is merely used in symbolic ways, then we must cry out to God for the return of His Substance; because the Holy Spirit is here now to fill OUR hearts and hands.

Do you see this sign of Laying On Of Hands today?

More signs tomorrow…so…

Stay On The Path!

Psa. 74:9 We see not our signs: there is no more any prophet: neither is there among us any that know how long.

Welcome To The Light-Washed Path,

From yesterday:

The Church of Acts came with “signs”. These were indicators that “God was in the house”. These signs told the world who we were. In Psalm 74 the writer laments at being stripped of the signs that had indicated God’s presence with them. Without the presence of their signs, Israel was adrift in confusion and in peril of losing their identity.

These signs not only tell the world who we are, but they tell us Who we belong to. Since there is no scriptural evidence that God ever intended to change His Church, until He returns we should remain under our signs. If we don’t see these signs today we should cry out in prayer till our signs manifest once again.

And now continuing with our 4^th sign:

Tongues -

One of the great manifestations that God had taken residence in His people was the advent of the Gift of Tongues.

Mark 16:17 “These signs will accompany those who have believed: in My name they will cast out demons, they will speak with new tongues;

1 Cor. 14:22 Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.

This strange yet divinely ingenious gift of the Holy Spirit serves 2 purposes:

The first is the edification of the individual believer in his own prayer life:

1 Cor. 14:4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself

Jude 1:20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost

The second is the that, coupled with the Gift of Interpretation Of Tongues, the two together produce Prophecy.

1 Cor. 14:5 Now I wish that you all spoke in tongues, but even more that you would prophesy; and greater is one who prophesies than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may receive edifying.

Though this sign has been neglected in many churches, it is one of the most valuable of the Gifts of the Holy Spirit, because through its edifying affect, it aids the manifestation of the other Gifts. And because of it, this Sign is greatly resisted by the devil. There is absolutely no solid scriptural evidence that Tongues has passed away from its use in the Church.

Do you see the sign of Tongues today?

Angels -

The Bible is clear that to seek or worship angels is wrong. But throughout the Book of Acts, angels routinely visited the Lord’s followers in times of trouble, to bring deliverance and encouragement.

Acts 5:18 They laid hands on the apostles and put them in a public jail.

Acts 5:19 But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the gates of the prison, and taking them out he said,

Acts 5:20 “Go, stand and speak to the people in the temple the whole message of this Life.”

Phillip, an Evangelist, was visited by an angel directing him to go down to Gaza, where he met a high Ethiopian official and led him to Jesus.

Acts 8:26 But an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip saying, “Get up and go south to the road that descends from Jerusalem to Gaza.” (This is a desert road.)

Acts 8:27 So he got up and went; and there was an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of all her treasure; and he had come to Jerusalem to worship

As Paul’s ship was about to be swamped by a storm he was visited by an angel and reassured with a message for him and the entire crew.

Acts 27:23 “For this very night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood before me,

Acts 27:24 saying, ëDo not be afraid, Paul; you must stand before Caesar; and behold, God has granted you all those who are sailing with you.í

Acts 27:25 “Therefore, keep up your courage, men, for I believe God that it will turn out exactly as I have been told.

Do we see the sign of Angels today?

It is evident that the NT Church was filled with the supernatural signs of God’s active presence among them. These signs did not occur in lieu of the written scripture, which was in the making. For the purpose of the two are entirely different. The written Word provides doctrine, reproof and instruction:

2 Tim. 3:16 All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness;

But the purpose of the signs of the church are to signal the world, with their supernatural testimony, that God is resident in His people. The church without her signs is a poor house with nothing but religion to offer. Consequently the Church of Acts was a gold mine of spiritual power and fruit, just brimming with the “burning-bush” presence of God. And the Holy Spirit is still in the world today, on order and readyto fill every servant surrendered to Jesus’ purpose.

Acts 5:32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.

More signs tomorrow.  So…

Stay On The Path

Psa. 74:9 We see not our signs: there is no more any prophet: neither is there among us any that know how long.

Welcome To The Light-Washed Path,

The Church of Acts came with “signs”. These were indicators that “God was in the house”. These signs told the world who we were. In Psalm 74 the writer laments at being stripped of the signs that had indicated God’s presence with them. Without the presence of their signs, Israel was adrift in confusion and in peril of losing their identity.

These signs not only tell the world who we are, but they tell us Who we belong to. Since there is no scriptural evidence that God ever intended to change His Church, until He returns we should remain under our signs. If we don’t see these signs today we should cry out in prayer till our signs manifest once again.

The Filling Of The Holy Spirit -

The first sign of the New Testament Church was (and is) being filled with the Holy Spirit.

Acts 2:4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Acts 4:31 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.

The Church began with the filling of the Holy Spirit; and began the Age of the Vessel and the Indwelling God. Even when persecution arose against them, the scripture says:

Acts 13:52 And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost.

Jesus’ response to His crucifixion was to fill His followers with the Holy Spirit! It was the first and foremost sign of the church.

Do you see the sign of being filled with the Holy Spirit today?

Joy -

The sign of Joy transcended the world drained of happiness. The Joy that Jesus had promised arrived with Pentecost. A joy that is unconquerable powered by the miraculous resurrection of Jesus. He was alive! And He was leading His people as tens of thousands streamed from the darkness into His Light-Washed Path.

John 16:20 Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.

John 16:21 A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world.

John 16:22 And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you.

When Philip took the Gospel down to the hated city of Samaria joy broke out in the whole town.

Acts 8:8 And there was great joy in that city.

Do you see the sign of Joy today?

Boldness -

The sign of boldness, as the mighty Hand of God, lifted men and women far above the limits of their own courage. Boldness put the steadfast purpose of Jesus fearlessly into the hearts of His followers. Boldness quenched the heart pounding of humble disciples, as they stepped far out on the high wire of God’s calling.

When Peter and John were hauled before the same court, that only days before, had Jesus crucified, boldness was all over them:

Acts 4:13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marveled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.

Under the influence of Boldness, God has sent souls on fire around the world. Television and technology can never speak as deeply into the life of the one bound in darkness, as the witness of a Christian in the Hands of Boldness!

Do you see the sign of Boldness today?

There’s more tomorrow, so…

Stay On The Path!