 
Revolutionary

Spirituality

How to experience the full

love of Christ

And be at peace with God

David C. Barnes

Copyright 2013

Smashwords Edition
Introduction

I am writing this book to keep important truths alive that I feel have been lost by the modern church. Unfortunately many denominations have taken spiritual principles and re-work them to fit their needs and ideas, and in doing so they have lost many of the core elements of Christianity. I feel that the more we understand about God's grace, our position in love, and our heavenly blessings, the more we become motivated to serve God. God wants us to live Godly lives, and as Christians we should be motivated to do so by the love God has given to each of us. Unfortunately many churches have this motivation reversed and keep their people in a form of bondage, with rules and standards, robbing them of their joy of Christianity. This book explores how to live a love-based relationship with God, and through it enjoy the love of.

The first six chapters explore the core elements of Christianity. The seventh through tenth chapters deal with the importance of studying the Bible from a dispensational point of view, and how that affects your Christian experience. The final five chapters cover your personal experience as a Christian and how to share your faith with others. If you are a new Christian I encourage you to start at the beginning and read the chapters in order. By doing so you will learn dispensational truths and Godly principles explained in a way that builds your understanding and relationship to God. As you study you will begin a process that will open your understanding, empowering you to become fully connected to God. This is a powerful place that delivers joy, peace and a clearer focus on how to serve God from the right motivation, one of love and thanksgiving.

I hope that this material will be a blessing to you and your family. Remember, religion is man made but true spirituality comes from God,

Dedication

This book is dedicated to the many great teachers who have shown me that "Rightly dividing the word of God" was so important. It is the only way to fully understand God's message for today.

I would also like to thank Carol Brown and Janine Miller for their help in editing this book . Their feedback and insights have helped focus this material and keep it fresh

Table of Contents

1- Christian Revolution

2 - The Elements of Salvation

3 - What is Faith

4 - Understanding Grace

5 - Confusion with Sanctification

6 - The Faith of Jesus Christ

7 - The Kingdom of God and the Body of Christ

8 - Why we Study the Bible Dispensationally

9 - The Dispensation of Grace

10 - Understanding the Body of Christ

11 - Living a Grace Filled Life

12 - Understanding Chastisement

13 - Sharing Your Faith in Christ

14 - Joy and the Christian Experience

15 - All You Need is Love

The path

of enlightenment

Begins with a moment of clarity...

Then another...

And another...

It is a journey not a destination.
Chapter 1

Christian Revolution

This book will shake up many Christian conservatives who have been steeped in "denominationalism, traditions and religion" over true spirituality. Many practices and beliefs in the modern church have a confused biblical basis, and still more are simply man-made traditions or ideas that over time have taken on a life of their own. This erroneous thinking and confused teaching has robbed many believers of the simple joy of their salvation. They find themselves confused by conflicting teachings that are never explained. Unfortunately, when confronted with this, traditional Christianity simply "Spiritualizes" or changes the meanings to fit "their" interpretation of the scripture. The Bible student is forced to accept an explanation shadowed in interpretation and confusion, instead of a literal acceptance of the verse. This then changes the intent of the verse, and starts to water down the power and truth of God's word. As this happens, the average Christian begins to get lost in their Bible study, and assumes that they cannot study on their own and get any real meaning from the scriptures without outside guidance. Too many Christians feel that they cannot understand their Bible's without some scholar or teacher explaining it to them. When this happens we get opinions and interpretations instead of simple Biblical truth. This is a self-fulfilling activity that never leads to greater spirituality

The Bible is not a confusing book in need of interpretation, but rather a very beautifully constructed record of Gods dealings with man through history. This is why the Apostle Paul teaches us the importance of dividing it correctly to fully understand it.

2 Tim 2:15

15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

The division Paul talks about is in understanding to who the Bible is addressing at any given time, and where it falls on God's timeline in dealing with man. This is called dispensational study. This type of study is critical when trying to understand your personal responsibility to a verse, teaching, or God. Stop and think for a moment. Would you open someone else's mail, then read and follow instructions meant for another person or a different time? Of course not, but this is what the modern church does all the time. When this is done, many teachings and doctrines fall out of context and we begin trying to apply principals not intended for our time, lives, and relationship to God. This causes us to become confused and frustrated with our Christian experience. For example; let's look at these two verses.

Matt 18:19-20

19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.

20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

Powerful stuff... all we need to do is ask for anything and it will be given to us. Is this true? Is this for us today? Let's look further...

Phil 4:6-7

6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Here we see a difference in our prayers. Here we are to pray with thanksgiving and present our requests, and the peace of God will be in our hearts. Notice the difference. Today, I am not guaranteed to get what I want, but instead I can expect peace. This is a different message then what was taught in Matt. The first one came directly from Christ while he was on the earth dealing with the twelve disciples, the other from Paul many years later. But which do I follow today? How can I know? Or do I just "Interpret" one to mean something else? This is where dispensational study becomes important. If you know who is being addressed, and when it is happening, (in God's timeline of dealing with man) you will better understand your personal responsibility to a verse or teaching. It only makes common sense to look at scripture from a dispensational point of view. Unfortunately, this has not been fully addressed by most modern Christian churches that are set on traditions and denominational issues rather than the truth. Let's look at another example.

Matt 10:1

10:1 And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.

Now let's look a Paul and his physical problems later in his ministry.

2 Cor 12:7-9

7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.

8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.

9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Paul cannot heal himself and is told that God's grace is sufficient. A definite change from the teachings of Christ where the Apostles had the power to heal... things had changed between these two teachings and when we fail to understand the "how and why" we run the risk of becoming confused and frustrated in our Bible study. This is the place most Christians find themselves if they are being honest.

A dispensational study of the Bible will clear this up, and revolutionize your Christian experience. The term dispensation refers to a specific time span or administration from God. For example the age of Law began with the 10 commandments and continued until it was set aside at (to be completed after the dispensation of grace) the coming of Jesus, heralded by John the Baptist.

When we study the Bible from these time perspectives and a dispensational point of view, all of the verses fall in place and become clear. We no longer have to compromise the meanings of a verse to make them fit together. The entire Bible fits together, and in it we find truths that empower our relationship with God. While we can learn many important truths from the whole Bible (God's love for man, his righteousness, what is sin, why we sin etc.) we must be mindful of what we are to live by and study, in our present time, the dispensation of grace. Today we enjoy a unique relationship by faith through grace, that was given to, and explained to us by the Apostle Paul who received it by direct revelation from God. Here Paul explains the "how and why" of our present time, the dispensation of grace.

Eph 3:2-6

2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to youward:

3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,

4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)

5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;

6 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:

The better understanding we have of the different dispensations of God, the more the Bible comes alive and the better relationship we enjoy with our creator. I believe It's time the modern church focused on true spirituality and re-visited many of its teachings and traditions. We must study scripture dispensationally to learn what is expected of us in the modern church. By doing so we will clear up many conflicts allowing us to focus on delivering the love of God to a lost world.

This is revolutionary thinking that will upset the apple cart for many Christians. However, I believe that many people seek a closer relationship to God, and it begins with a clearer understanding of their Bible and its important message for today.

This book studies the core elements of Christianity from a dispensational perspective. It will open your eyes to the grace and love of God, in a way you have never seen before.

I know from my own experience, that studying from a dispensational point of view will change your relationship to God in a most profound way, delivering a peace and joy you have never known before. This is the truth that has been lost over many generations of denominationalism, traditions and religion; it is the truth that Jesus talks about in John chapter 8.

John 8:31-32

31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;

32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

Each chapter deals with important elements of our faith. When studied from a dispensational point of view the Bible takes on new meaning and creates the foundation for a grace filled life ready to serve God.

Explore this new approach to your Bible, and you will be able to connect many of the dots so to speak, that have not been explained before. For many Christians it is the first time that their Bible study is not confusing and vague but crystal clear and empowering. It is the correct way to study scripture and a life changing blessing for all who make the effort.
Chapter 2

The Elements of Salvation

Throughout recorded history God has always dealt with man through an absolute set of principles and standards. Sin was and has always been sin. God's standards are based on his perfection and the need for us to be cleansed from all sin before entering his presence. This standard is an absolute and will never change. Connected to this standard is a need for a personal belief that each of us must have in God and his redemptive power. Believing in God has always been the core element of salvation.

Rom 4:3 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.

Throughout history, redemption was always based on belief; however, this belief was demonstrated in different ways. In the Old Testament under Jewish law, sacrifice was needed to atone for or cover up a person's sin. This was done on a yearly basis and carried out by the priest. It was a physical act that was necessary, but it was a person's belief that caused him to carry out this sacrifice. Simply, he had to believe what God had told him, and have a belief in Gods existence and his laws.

Exod 29:36

36 And thou shalt offer every day a bullock for a sin offering for atonement: and thou shalt cleanse the altar, when thou hast made an atonement for it, and thou shalt anoint it, to sanctify it.

Lev 1:4

4 And he shall put his hand upon the head of the burnt offering; and it shall be accepted for him to make atonement for him.

This program continued until Christ began his ministry and gathered his apostles to offer a kingdom to Israel. Until the Kingdom was offered, the children of God (Israel) demonstrated their belief by keeping the law and performing sacrifices.

Under the Kingdom offer, during Christ's earthly ministry, salvation was still a physical activity based on belief. Now a Jewish believer was saved by repenting, (changing their way) and being baptized for the remission of sin. It was an activity (a physical action) that was needed, again based on one's belief.

Mark 1:3-4

3 The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.

4 John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.

Luke 3:3

3 And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins;

John the Baptist went forward clearing a path for Christ. He preached a message of baptism for repentance, an action that was based on faith and belief. This was a totally different program than the sacrifices and Jewish law Israel had before. These new activities signaled the beginning of a new administration or program, and a new way for Jewish believers to meet God's criteria for salvation. Jesus came to offer a kingdom to Israel, and under a Kingdom program, salvation is by repentance and baptism for the remission of sin. It makes sense when you consider that repenting meant to change one's direction, to change toward a Godly point of view. When one repented in the kingdom one began to follow Christ (literally) and became part of his flock of believers. This is why Christ had so many with him on the riverbank and needed to feed the five thousand with the fish and bread. Under the Kingdom an individual must repent (a personal belief, a change of heart) and participate in the physical action of baptism. It was a physical activity based on belief. This program of the kingdom continued after Christ's death in the early chapters of the book of Acts.

Acts 2:38

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.

Acts 3:19-20

19 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;

20 And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:

After the ascension of Christ, the offer of the kingdom complete with repentance and baptism continued until Paul received a direct revelation from God, and began teaching a different program or dispensation, salvation by a personal faith, what God calls the Dispensation of Grace. Up until the dispensation of grace, salvation was a combination of faith or belief, acted out in a physical actions, or works. Both the physical action and belief were necessary for salvation under the law (with sacrifices) and kingdom age (by baptism). Today; however, we live in the dispensation of grace where our belief is counted for righteousness. This new dispensation, or way God has chose to deal with man, is by design the most personal and intimate program of man has ever had with God. Today, it is what we believe in our hearts that is important. (There are no physical actions needed for salvation, but a much more personal relationship, our belief.) Today God calls us to a one on one relationship based on His grace and love. We believe, and it is counted for our righteousness. This level of relationship, devoid of physical action, places us on the most personal and intimate relationship possible with God. We must remember that this personal relationship was always God's ultimate plan, a plan that now offers salvation to the entire world. Christ acted in the most personal way possible when giving up his life on the cross, and today we meet his personal commitment with our own, an intimate personal belief and commitment to God.

Today in the dispensation of grace, anyone from any background can approach God individually and accept His offer of salvation. This offer of salvation by faith, is the most intimate relationship possible with God. It is all about our belief and does not involve any activities or physical actions. Instead, it demands a very personal and intimate commitment that each of us must make with God. It is a very simple relationship based on faith, which God now offers to the whole world. What a powerful program of salvation based on God's love for us, and our acceptance of this offer.

Today we connect to God in the most personal way possible, enjoying a relationship based on love and faith.

Chapter 3

What is Faith

Faith is a word that is passed around Christianity often too lightly. It is not a simple concept to define or understand. It involves the deepest of human commitment. First, you must have knowledge of the truth then a personal acceptance of it. To have faith, is to believe with such commitment that one would give up all, "even life" to defend it. This is the type of faith that Paul teaches about, a faith that brings salvation.

Rom 10:9

9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

Eph 2:8-9

8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Faith, is the cornerstone of our salvation in the dispensation of grace. We cannot bring anything other than our faith to God, and He counts this personal commitment and faith as enough to forgive our sins. Think about this for a minute. A commitment on our part is in many ways more difficult than in times past. Today there is no action or work that can give us anything tangible to hold. Every aspect of our relationship to God is on a personal commitment and faith level. We either believe or we do not. Each of us deals directly with God, one on one, privately. This is a heart to heart relationship and it is the highest order of personal commitment. It reflects the degree of personal relationship God made with us as well. We often forget that God was in Christ, personally redeeming us. He was personally involved in our salvation and was in Christ on the cross!

2 Cor 5:17-19

17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation

Look very closely at vs. 19 above; God made a very personal commitment to us, and demands the same level of commitment from us. This is what faith is all about, accepting and believing that Christ died for your sins. We must each let Christ's death be our payment for sin, a very personal and private decision made individually.

Another important understanding is that Christ was also faithful in carrying out God's plan of salvation. Christ had to be faithful in going through the death on the cross before we could ever have the opportunity to believe.

Gal 2:20-21

20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

Notice closely what verse 20 says, "I live by the faith of the Son of God", Christ was faithful in going to the cross, and we follow with the same personal level of commitment. When we understand this relationship, it becomes a powerful motivator for our service for God. We must always be aware of the level of personal sacrifice and commitment God has made for us.

What happens when we believe?

As Christians we often throw out flash words like "Saved by faith" "The blood of Christ" and many others. Unfortunately, while many Christians are truly saved by faith, they do not fully understand how this process happens. Salvation is activated by faith, but carried out by the Holy Spirit. The mechanics of how we are saved begin the moment we believe, when the Holy Spirit baptizes us into the body of Christ.

1 Cor 12:12-14

12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.

13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

14 For the body is not one member, but many.

Eph 4:4-6

4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;

5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism,

6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

When we are baptized (or placed) into the Body of Christ, we benefit from the payment that Body has already undergone. We stand in Christ as a purified spirit, seen by God in Christ perfected. If we were not placed into the Body of Christ we would not benefit from the redemption it offers; once we are in Christ we stand perfected before God. It is this position in the Body of Christ that purifies us of our sin. Our belief places us in the Body and we therefore stand sinless. The Holy Spirit that places us in the Body of Christ plays an important role in our salvation. This is why all who believe are given the Holy Spirit the moment they believe. It is an important element in the mechanics of our salvation.

Eph 1:13-14

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.

Eph 4:30

30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

The Holy Spirit that places us in Christ also seals our redemption, keeping us for God until the time of that redemption. In verse 14 above we learn that it is a down payment, guaranteeing our salvation. Remember, if we are in Christ, we cannot be corruptible in God's eyes anymore. God sees us through Christ, and sees us only as a perfect sinless creation. This is why Paul can write about the spiritual blessings in heavenly places that we enjoy now!

Eph 1:3

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

Notice that Paul writes, "hath blessed us" in the past tense. Once you are saved you have ALL spiritual blessings. These are an automatic benefit of our salvation. We have them the moment we believe and are baptized into Christ by the Holy Spirit! The Holy Spirit insures that we can never lose our salvation or the position we enjoy in the body of Christ.

It is also important to understand that today under the Dispensation of Grace our sins are literally eliminated from ever happening. Christ is our propitiation and not just atonement for our sin. Our sins are not just covered up but treated as if they never existed!

Rom 3:25

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;

I Jn 2:2

2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.

I Jn 4:10

10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

The word propitiation means much more than the paying up or the reckoning of a bill. It is a word that means to act as if the debt was never there to begin with. When we are in Christ by faith, God sees no sin and in a greater way, as far as He's concerned it never existed! What an act of grace and love!

There are additional benefits from being baptized into the Body of Christ. As a member of the body of Christ, we help one another and make up the modern church. This church enjoys a special relationship to God through Christ; that places us in Gods family.

Eph 5:23

23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.

We are God's children or family in the Dispensation of Grace. Just as Israel enjoyed this special position in the past, today all who believe are part of this special group.

Rom 12:4-5

4 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:

5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.

This position in God's family gives us the authority to represent God as ambassadors in this world.

2 Cor 5:20-21

20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

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.

What a wonderful position we enjoy when we believe by faith! We are forgiven of our sins as if they did not exist, we are placed into the family of God's, and we are showered with all spiritual blessings the moment we believe. God also equips us with his grace to be ambassadors for him in the enemies' territory the world. All happens the moment we believe, ...it doesn't get any better then this!

This is what true spirituality is all about. Sadly most modern churches and denominations have lost these powerful but simple truths. They have instead built long lists of rules and regulations that one must comply with in order to win favor with the church and God. This is why so many people are disappointed and unhappy with their Christian faith.

Never forget; religion is man made, but true spirituality comes from God. There is a big difference in these two, and failing to see that difference has caused many a believer to walk away from a spiritual life. Religion is a man made institution designed to control people, and to get the masses to act a certain way. On the other hand, true spirituality is seeking and enjoying a personal relationship with God. You do not need religion to understand God. All you need is an open heart and a desire to live by faith. In the following chapters we will learn about true spirituality, and along the way open your mind to many biblical truths that may seem new. Unlike religion; the truth will set you free: a freedom from sin that will place you at peace with God. A most wonderful place to be, and it all begins with faith.

Chapter 4

Understanding Grace

Sadly, many believers spend most of their Christian experience in a state of guilt and confusion. They spend their time trying to win favor with God by performing and living lives full of man made rules and regulations. They are strongly motivated by fear and guilt and a sense that they can never live up to Gods expectations. Sadly, this is what many denominations are all about; however it has nothing to do with true spirituality. To be a member of many churches, you must jump through a set of hoops and act a certain way. They wrongly believe that individuals must be motivated by trying to keep some high standard of living or performance that they will be judged by. The more rules and regulations you have, the easier it is to judge others and keep them in line. This negative form of motivation focuses individuals back on themselves, back onto their egos and their personal performance and away from what God has done for them. When churches set performance levels and non-spiritual standards, they create is a system that forces individuals by design, to seek personal recognition and feel boastful about they're actions and activities. This moves their motivation away from a positive and spiritually focused one, to a performance standard they are trying to keep. This type of program is often set up for the noblest of reasons; however, by design, it judges individuals and places believers on a treadmill of performance that leads to frustration and defeat. Whenever standards are not met, judgment is made by others or by the individuals themselves, and a negative or defeatist system is reinforced. These so-called standards rob many believers of the joy of their salvation. It is not a spiritually based program, but one implemented by man, based on his own ego and need for personal recognition. It takes the focus off the grace of God and places it on the individuals and their performance. This never works, and is not biblical. However, there is a better way.. a truly spiritual way!

Our motivation to live a Godly life must be driven by the love of Christ and what God has already done for us, not the other way around! When our spiritual relationship is properly understood, we are motivated by God's grace and love, allowing us to positively represent God to a lost world. This representation is motivated by love and NOT fear. When we understand the fullness of the grace in which we stand, we live for God by choice, not guilt and fear! Think about this simple example. If you had a child you loved, would you want him to keep his room clean out of a fear of punishment, or because he appreciated the things you gave him. You would want him to act out of love and respect, not fear. Which one of these two motivations is the strongest? Love and respect is always stronger than fear and punishment. It is the same with God. When we base our desire to live Godly lives on the wrong motivation, we frustrate the grace Gods offers. This is exactly what Paul writes about in Galatians.

Gal 1:6-7

6 bI marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:

7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.

Gal 2:16

16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.

Gal 2:20-21

20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

Gal 3:3

3 Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh

Gal 4:9

9 But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?

Gal 5:1

1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

Study these verses carefully and you will see that the believers in Galatians were saved by grace but went back into a program of works. This sad condition is very common in the modern church. It is easy to fall back on your works when everything in the natural world revolves around performance. After all, we work hard and get paid, we act appropriately and our parents reward us, everything we know and experience in the world is based on some level of performance.

However, when we perform for the wrong reasons (our salvation or sanctification) we frustrate God's grace and what He has already done for us. God calls us to a higher order of thinking, His grace is sufficient, and His grace and love should be our motivation to lead spiritual lives.

God wants us to live a life motivated by thankfulness and love. However, modern religion has this all backwards, and they place believers under a great many rules, regulations, and programs of works. This form of thinking places the Christian back into bondage and steals the joy of their salvation. Grace covers it all regardless of how we act back to God. It is this principal that makes God's salvation by faith possible! Without Grace then faith alone would not be enough. We would have to work for salvation. And it would not be a gift, but a reward for living and acting "good enough" which we all know is impossible to do! Understanding the full scope of grace empowers the believer to live for God. Any other motivation falls short of pleasing God and it frustrates the grace given to man. Do you see this? Grace and faith are the way God designed our relationship with him. He wants us to approach him, through love not fear!

When you fully understand this relationship, you are freed to give all that you are to a loving God who will carry out his will in your life. What we are talking about is a powerful relationship fully connected to your creator. A very beautiful place few Christians ever experience!

Chapter 5

Confusion with Sanctification

Sanctification is one of the most misunderstood principles of the Christian life. In the simplest of terms it means to be to be pure and without sin before God. Unfortunately, many denominations teach that, although Grace saves your soul, you must live a certain way and perform for God, in order to keep favor with Him and be sanctified and blessed. While it is very important that we do good works and live a godly life, it is just as important that we do it with the right motivation. If we live godly only to achieve gain, (like blessings, crowns in heaven, and worldly recognition) we are misunderstanding God's plan for our lives. Let's explore why this type of thinking robs many Christians of the joy in their Christian experience.

To begin with, how can you work for something you already have? Remember that you are in the Body of Christ and already have God's blessings in your life. The moment you believe, you are placed in Christ, and stand purified before God! There is no more to work to do to be sanctified. If there was, then where is the grace? If Christianity is a progressively improving state until you finally meet God's criteria, then why did Christ die? Do you see the problem with this perspective?

Another way to look at spiritual position and blessings is to picture a UPS driver delivering packages to your door every day that must be signed for. If you are home, he can deliver the packages and you can be there to receive them. However, if you're not home he cannot complete his delivery (without you and your signature) and you get no packages.

It's the same with our lives and the blessings God has for us. If we walk in God's program and are in fellowship with Him, the blessings are realized in our lives. If we are not walking in the Lord, and not home, so to speak, we will miss many blessings. The blessings keep coming each day, God delivers, but we must be home to enjoy them. God never stops sending them; the blessings keep coming, however if we are out of fellowship with God and focused on worldly issues, we miss many of them. This is a very important concept to understand. As Christians we have been freed to choose a lifestyle that either blesses us or not, the choice is ours. God delivers his blessings everyday, whether or not we are able to enjoy them is up to us.

The freedom we have in Christ is a freedom to either live for God, or choose not to. When we choose not to live a godly life, we create for ourselves a miserable Christian experience. There is nothing more miserable than being born again, and out of the fellowship of God. We know the truth but choose to live otherwise.

I have personally experienced this and it is a terrible place to be. At first you think living out of fellowship won't make a difference, then slowly all the so-called joy of the world becomes very shallow. All your worldly ways eventually create misery. In a very short time, you are the unhappiest Christian you could possibly imagine. This is a very painful place to be. Then, the most wonderful thing happens. When you finally reach bottom in your spiritual life, you look up (remember when you're at the bottom there is nowhere to look but up!) and you find that God is right there! He is right beside you, welcoming you home with open arms. You suddenly realize He never left you, but that you left Him.

This is what our freedom in Grace is all about! We serve God not for gain, but because of what He has already done for us! The same thing that caused Christ to die in the beginning; love now motivates us to live for Him. How beautiful, how simple, how pure! We are sanctified the moment we believe, which then becomes our motivation to live for God! How we live out our lives, and the joy and blessings we receive are the results of how connected to God we chose to be, he is always there for us!

What is Grace?

To fully understand sanctification, we must have a complete picture of Grace. When we think about grace it is an abstract concept that is both a gift and a condition. Grace is given to all believers and is the spiritual position we find ourselves in. It is a complete action and not a partial program. We cannot be partly forgiven under grace. By its own standard, Grace is a complete spiritual state.

Col 2:10

10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

If you are complete in Christ, then where is the room for additional sanctification? You cannot take partial Grace; it is an all or nothing proposition. God created it that way, and we have no right to change it. Grace is also a personal encounter that each individual must experience and deal with on his own terms. This is why we have freedom in Christ, the freedom to live for God.

Rom 6:14-15

14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.

15 What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.

John 8:32

32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

Rom 6:18

18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.

Rom 6:22-23

22 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.

23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

We are freed to serve God out of love, not guilt or a sense of obligation. When we act from this wrong motivation we are taking away from God's program of grace for today. That is why Paul writes that we are to serve God as a reasonable service, or result of our position in grace.

Rom 12:1-2

1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

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

Today it is reasonable to serve God given what He has already done for us. Our sanctification becomes our motivator in living a Godly life. How can we be motivated by love, if we are not sanctified, and need to work to win favor with God? Love is the only true motive for living for Christ. This is what Paul talks about when he looks at our service for God.

1 Cor 3:13-15

13 Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.

14 If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.

15 If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.

I believe Paul is talking here about the right motivation. If we serve God for any other reason than the Love of Christ (i.e. guilt, power, money, personal gain, recognition etc.) it will have no eternal value. The wrong motive will not affect our salvation, but does have an effect on our spiritual rewards. I believe that the rewards we will get, our crowns in heaven, (talked about in the Book of Revelation) will be placed at Christ's feet and all recognition will be given back to God. Anyone who understands a love motivation would do no less. Our position in Christ, seated in the heavens, is all that we could ever hope for and need. We are complete in Christ (that means there is no more to get!) and are now compelled by His love, and sanctified by His grace.

2 Cor 5:14-15

14 For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:

15 And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.

Remember, when it comes to Grace and sanctification, Paul is God's first and greatest example of this. He was a man who went around killing the believers and trying to stop what he felt was an ungodly cult. God takes a sin-filled person, who was killing His believers and uses him as an example of His grace.

1 Tim 1:12-15

12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;

13 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.

14 And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.

How can we ask for a better example of God's grace and sanctification than Paul? Regardless of our backgrounds, whatever we have done, and where we are today, God's grace is sufficient. Remember, it is God's unconditional love that started the whole process of our redemption. Why would that change for our sanctification?

Let the love of God be your strength and enjoy His grace in the Body of Christ. On a spiritual level, you have already arrived. This wonderful position in Christ becomes the greatest motivation of all. It empowers the believer to live a life of service for God.

Chapter 6

The Faith Of Jesus Christ

The apostle Paul uses the expression "The faith of Jesus Christ" 7 times in his epistles, and it speaks of something that is often not understood or appreciated by most Christians. When Paul talks about "the faith of Christ," many Christians are lead to believe or are told it refers to our faith in Christ. This is not accurate. Today we place our faith in Christ, which saves us. At the same time Christ was faithful in carrying out God's plan for our redemption, which allows our salvation to take place. If Christ had not been faithful, we would have no way of reconciling with God. Some modern translations change these passages and verses to read OUR FAITH in Christ, which changes the whole meaning of the verses. However, when we explore these differences further we begin to see the beauty and love of God's offer of salvation .

When Paul talks about our faith he makes this very plain.

Rom 3:25

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;

Rom 3:28

28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.

Rom 4:5

5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.

Gal 3:26

26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.

Col 1:4

4 Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints,

These are very straight forward and plainly set out our faith in the salvation process. There is quite a different story when we look at "The faith of Christ" . Here it speaks of a different action and activity. Also many times when "The faith of Christ" is brought up, there is additional explanation in the same verses so we don't get confused. Let's look at some of theses verses.

Rom 3:21-22

21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;

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:

Gal 2:15-16

15 We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles,

16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.

Gal 3:22

22 But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.

Phil 3:9

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

Notice that in each of these sets of verses, it is clarified each time. There is clearly a difference.

What does it mean?

The faithfulness of Christ refers to his faithfully carrying out his performance as our substitute and redeemer. To act as our redeemer Christ had to be capable of doing it ( a perfect sacrifice ) and he had to carry it out. This was not an easy task and one that even Christ did not look forward to. We must remember Jesus was also a man, and would experience all the pain and anguish involved in being crucified.

Luke 22:41-44

41 And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's cast, and kneeled down, and prayed,

42 Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.

43 And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.

44 And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.

Christ knew what he would endure and carried it out faithfully!

The righteousness of God is available to us because of what Christ did. Look at how powerful these verses are when we rightly divide and understand what took place!

Rom 3:21-25

21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;

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;

When we see the whole picture, we understand the magnitude of Jesus's faithfulness and love.

Gal 2:16-21

16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.

17 But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid.

18 For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor.

19 For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God.

20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

Without his faithfulness we would be lost. We should never frustrate the grace of God by not recognizing this important truth!

The justification unto eternal life doesn't come from our works, or efforts, but by the faithfulness of Jesus Christ. It's provided for by the faithful performance of Jesus as our redeemer. God justifies all who believe in Jesus Christ, that is all who trust in Him, relying upon His faithful performance as our redeemer!

Eph 3:11-12

11 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:

12 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.

It was a part of God's eternal purpose that we would have access to him through Christ. Christ's faithfulness removes any opportunity for us to rely on our actions or works. It was by Gods work, that we are made whole by our faith in Christ.

God from the beginning set up the law to show our transgressions and our need of a savior. Then through Christ's faithfulness to carry out God's eternal purpose, we have access to God.

Love from beginning to the end! Today our faith places us in Christ, who was faithful in caring out God's plan for salvation. Do you see the beauty of this? It places all the glory back where it belongs with God! Our faith simply access this opportunity for salvation set up by Christ's death. Jesus has paid the price for sin, allowing us to be redeemed.

Rom 6:4

4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

Rom 4:24-25

24 But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead;

25 Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.

Rom 5:1-2

1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

If it wasn't for Christ's faithful performance as our substitute redeemer there would be for us, no redemption. No redemption, no forgiveness, no justification, no sanctification, nothing. We must always be thankful to God for "The Faith OF Jesus Christ". We must always respect our position in him, and the Holy Spirit's position in us, and our responsibility to be God's light to a lost world!

Chapter 7

The Kingdom of God and the Body of Christ

a Dispensational Perspective

There are important divisions in our Bible, and understanding where they are and why they exist can greatly influence your focus on serving God. The difference between the Kingdom offer made to Israel, and the Body of Christ, is the number one problem in the church today. When these two programs or administrations from God are confused, many believers are frustrated and discouraged. You might ask why this would be important. What difference does it make? Isn't the whole Bible for us? The importance of rightly dividing the Word of God as Paul points out, is to provide us with the tools to be powerful workers for God

2 Tim 2:15

15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

While it is easier for most people to see the difference between the Old Testament rituals required of the Jews and the modern church, it is much more difficult for believers to distinguish between the Kingdom offer made to Israel and the Body of Christ. It's important to remember that if I apply godly activities meant for a different time or dispensation to my life today, I will not be very successful. While many of the core principles of godliness like righteousness, holiness, sin, and love are the same throughout eternity, the way they are expressed and our individual responsibilities to them has changed. Understanding our personal responsibilities and these differences are what studying the Bible from a dispensational perspective is all about. While the whole Bible is for us, it is not all to us. For example we no longer sacrifice as the Jews once did. Nor do I raise a family with my sister-in-law if my brother were to die. At the same time whenever two agree on something God does not necessarily give it to them as outlined in the Matt. chapter 18.

Matt 18:19

19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.

This promise in Matt was meant for a specific time and a specific program, namely the Kingdom offer that Jesus was making to the nation of Israel. We cannot call on this promise and expect it to happen today under the dispensation of Grace. If we try to, we will become very frustrated with God and ourselves. When it doesn't come to pass we will feel that we are being punished, or that our faith is not strong enough, when in reality it is not a part of this present dispensation of Grace. Do you see the value of rightly dividing the Word? When we fail to see and understand these divisions we are setting ourselves up for disappointment and confusion. At the same time, when we study and understand how and when these different administrations or dispensations changed, we can enjoy a full understanding of our Bibles and our relationship to God. When we study rightly divided Scripture, we obtain a much greater understanding of God's plan, and a closer walk with Him.

For many Christians, it is a moment of clarity when they first understand dispensational divisions and do not have to "spiritualize" or stretch Bible verses. For many, understanding the dispensational nature of the Bible is the first time that the Bible has made complete sense, all of its teachings coming together in a most profound way. Once people understand dispensational theology, they begin an empowering journey that becomes the strongest motivation for living a godly life. The overwhelming beauty of God's program and teachings become a personal motivation to become an ambassador for Christ and to make men see the mystery of God's grace.

Eph 3:1-9

1 For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles,

2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:

3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,

4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)

5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;

6 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:

7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.

8 Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;

9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:

Understanding the fellowship of the mystery (The Body of Christ) and all its aspects will change your life. It is the power of clarity that will motivate you to share the love of Christ to a troubled world. The unsearchable riches that Paul talks about will change your life! It is the most beautiful Biblical understanding you will ever find. However, to fully understand it we must study the Bible carefully with an open mind.

From the beginning.

The best place to begin our journey is at the start of the Kingdom offer to Israel. At this point in history the Jews had been under Roman rule for many centuries. They were a captive people and looked forward to a Messiah and leader who would save them from Rome. They looked forward to a time when they would rule the world with a Messiah as their leader. We must keep this in mind; as the beginning of this Kingdom offer was unveiled. Israel was not looking for a salvation by a faith or anything like this, they wanted to be liberated from Rome's oppression and rule the world. It is at this time that John the Baptist begins a ministry making way for the coming Messiah.

Matt 3:1-3

1 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea,

2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

3 For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.

Mark 1:2-4

2 As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.

3 The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.

4 John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.

John the Baptist begins preaching to the nation of Israel that the Kingdom of God was at hand. He begins a critical turning point in Israel's history. This offer of the Kingdom was made to the nation of Israel, and if it had been accepted Jesus would have set up Israel as the rulers of the world and as prophesied years earlier, the entire world would be blessed through them. Notice what John preached, "Baptism of repentance for the remission of sins". This was a major change from the animal sacrifices that were part of the Jewish law. Prior to this teaching, (the teaching of John the Baptist) the only way to atone for sins was with the sacrifices made by the priest in the temple. This new teaching or message from God (complete with an offer of the Kingdom) would be that salvation would come to Israel if they believed, repented and were baptized. Notice that a critical element of this message was repentance. Both as individuals and as a nation they needed to repent or change their ways, return to a spiritual relationship with God. Let's look closer.

The leaders of Israel had drifted far from where God wanted them to be. They had introduced politics, greed, and many other worldly practices into their spirituality. This is why Jesus angered them so when he accused them of not being spiritual, and why Jesus went so far as to throw the moneychangers out from the temple. Repentance was a critical element in the Kingdom offer.

The next step under the Kingdom required an individual to be baptized (a physical act) as part of their remission for sin. Of course, this baptism was motivated by a belief; however, this specific action was needed to demonstrate this belief and for salvation. At this point in history, John the Baptist was making way for the public ministry of Christ, and warned the Jewish leaders about their wicked ways.

Matt 3:7-11

7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?

8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:

9 And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.

10 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.

11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:

Notice in verse 11 that Christ will come and baptize with the Holy Ghost. This would later become a significant sign to the nation of Israel of the authenticity of the Apostle's ministry and the Kingdom offer made to the nation, even after the death and resurrection of Christ. This was truly the beginning of a new chapter in Israel's history. God was about to setup a worldly Kingdom with Israel as its head. This was a promise made to the nation of Israel many years before, and God would now deliver on it. A new message had gone out, and the Messiah was on the way. Notice how John reacted when he came face to face with Jesus who had come to John to be baptized.

Matt 3:13-17

13 Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.

14 But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?

15 And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.

16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:

17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

This was the beginning of Christ's public ministry. He came and was baptized and received the Spirit of God descending on him. One might ask, "Why did He need to be baptized? Was He not the Son of God?" The answer is that as the Son of God He was also a man, and a Jew. He, too, was part of the new Kingdom offer. To take our place as Messiah, He needed to be human and encounter all that we experience. After His baptism Jesus began His ministry. However, this was not a ministry of salvation by faith, (As we enjoy today in the dispensation of grace) but an offer to set up the Kingdom of God here on earth. Look closely at how he teaches them to pray.

Matt 6:10.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

It is clear where his ministry was leading, A Kingdom of God here on earth.

Matt 4:23-25

23 And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.

24 And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them.

25 And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judea, and from beyond Jordan.

Jesus begins His teaching by going to all the synagogues and temples. Notice He goes to the nation of Israel and not the Gentiles. It's important to understand that the earthly ministry of Jesus was not to the whole world but only to the Jews. He was focused on one thing in His ministry: the repentance of Israel and their acceptance of the Kingdom offer. Even when Jesus taught, He spoke of a higher calling, more than just actions, a change of heart when dealing with others. If you read Matt 5: 14-48 you will begin to get a sense of this higher call to spirituality. This was a new spiritual focus for Israel; however, its leaders felt threatened by it.

As the offer of the Kingdom progressed, the apostles needed guidance and clarification. This Kingdom offer was new to them as well, and they needed to learn about all that was involved. The times were changing, and Christ in Matt chapter 6 teaches them where to focus and what was important enough to include in prayer.

Matt 6:9-15

9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:

15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

It is very important to look at this prayer closely. First, it calls for the Kingdom to come as it is in heaven! It is plain to see that Jesus was offering the Kingdom of God here on earth. Second, it is very conditional in its forgiveness. To be forgiven you must first forgive others. This is clarified in verses 14 and 15. This Kingdom principle is in strong contrast to what Paul later teaches in the dispensation of Grace.

Col 3:12-15

12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.

15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

Unlike the Kingdom, in the dispensation of Grace we are to forgive others because Christ has first forgiven us. It is a totally different form of motivation and forgiveness then taught in the Kingdom offer. Again, we are to love one another, not for gain, but because God has already loved and given us His grace! Paul points out the correct motivation in verse 14; love. Under grace we do not receive forgiveness because we forgive, (As was the case under the Kingdom) but rather, we forgive because we are already forgiven!

Another area that differs greatly between the Kingdom Age and the Dispensation of Grace is found in the area of prayer. Under the kingdom age "ask and it will be given unto you." This, again, was a powerful sign to Israel to authenticate the ministry of the apostles and Christ.

Matt 7:6-8

6 Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.

7 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:

8 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

Today, under the Dispensation of Grace we do not get all we ask for; however, we do enjoy the peace of God through prayer. Today, we recognize that God is in control and all that happens to us is in His hands. The peace we enjoy is the result of our prayer, not a result of every request we make being answered.

Phil 4:4-7

4 Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.

5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.

6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Again, we see a significant difference between these two different programs. Under the Kingdom, all that we ask we shall receive, under Grace we realize God is in charge, and through prayer we enjoy a peace knowing that all is under God's control. Just imagine if you asked many times in prayer for something, but did not receive it. If you did not understand dispensational truth, and how and when God's program changed, you would be a very unhappy believer waiting for your prayers to be answered. You would become frustrated with God; and disappointed in God and yourself.

Sadly, many believers deal with this issue in their lives. When their prayers are not answered they feel not worthy or they feel they have some hidden sin, and believe they have somehow fallen short of God's blessings. Failing to rightly dividing the word of God can lead to great unhappiness and confusion. Just think for a minute, do you think Satan wants believers to understand their Bibles? No, he would rather that Christians live in confusion and despair. What better way to discourage new converts than to cause believers to present a confused, disappointed and frustrated picture of Christianity.

Understanding Signs and Wonders

A third major issue of confusion concerning the transition from the kingdom offer to the Dispensation of Grace is found in the area of signs and wonders. Sadly, many Christians confuse the use of these signs and wonders that were part of the Kingdom offer and believe they are part of our current Dispensation of Grace. Even sadder, many try to experience these so-called gifts and really only encounter an emotional high or sensation.

Once the full message or revelation of the mystery was revealed to Paul, the need for and the actual practice of the signs and wonders fell away. What was once used by God to authenticate the apostle's ministry was now replaced by the revelation of the mystery, a program that opened up salvation to the entire world! Signs were needed at one time, but now are just a past element of the Kingdom offer that was ultimately rejected by Israel. It is also important to note that the twelve disciples traveled with Jesus for quite some time, seeing many miracles and signs, before Jesus gave them this power for themselves.

Matt 10:1

1 And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.

Signs and miracles were not an automatic power given to all that believed. They were a spiritual way of confirming to Israel that God was indeed a part of a particular ministry. Remember Moses and many others. Signs were God's way of authenticating a ministry. They were needed because Jesus was offering the Kingdom to Israel, and not to the Gentiles. The offer to the whole world would come some time later under the Dispensation of Grace given to Paul.

Matt 15:24

24 But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

Matt 10:5-7

5 These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not:

6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.

So we find Jesus preaching to the nation of Israel, and in a short amount of time, he angers the leaders and they begin to plot his demise.

Matt 12:9-14

9 And when he was departed thence, he went into their synagogue:

10 And, behold, there was a man which had his hand withered. And they asked him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath days? that they might accuse him.

11 And he said unto them, What man shall there be among you, that shall have one sheep, and if it fall into a pit on the sabbath day, will he not lay hold on it, and lift it out?

12 How much then is a man better than a sheep? Wherefore it is lawful to do well on the sabbath days.

13 Then saith he to the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it forth; and it was restored whole, like as the other.

14 Then the Pharisees went out, and held a council against him, how they might destroy him.

At this point in history, the Pharisees and leaders believed they had to do something about Jesus. He was gathering a following and questioning the way they ran the synagogue and the Jewish religion. He was causing problems and threatening their authority on all levels. The Jewish leaders then began a process to falsely accuse Jesus and bring Him to trial. As the tensions began to mount, the Pharisees and leaders continued to question Jesus' authority and power, and even accused Him of casting out demons because He is one himself. After rebuking them, Jesus shared a very critical understanding with these leaders.

Matt 12:30-32

30 He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.

31 Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.

32 And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.

Mark 3:28-29

28 Verily I say unto you, All sins shall be forgiven unto the sons of men, and blasphemies wherewith soever they shall blaspheme:

29 But he that shall blaspheme against the Holy Ghost hath never forgiveness, but is in danger of eternal damnation:

This is a very important element to understanding when the Kingdom offer ended, and the Dispensation of Grace began to be unveiled. Later we will see that in Chapter 7 of Acts the leaders of Israel stone Stephen after he spends time before the council, proving to them that Jesus was the Messiah, and that they were responsible for His crucifixion. At the stoning of Stephen, he is filled with the Holy Spirit, causing the leaders of Israel to commit this sin, the unpardonable sin. It's also interesting to note that the leader of this stoning was a very religious Jew named Saul (Paul).

Acts 7:57-59

57 Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord,

58 And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet,whose name was Saul.

59 And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.

It is after this stoning that Paul is converted on the road to Damascus, and he begins to receive by direct revelation the Dispensation of Grace we now live under. In other words, Israel's leaders, representing the nation, commit this unpardonable sin, and at that time the middle wall or partition between Jews and Gentiles is broken down. This is where the Body of Christ and the modern church begins, not in the beginning of Acts as most believe, but after the committing of this unpardonable sin by the leaders of Israel! This is where Paul (the chief among sinners and the one in charge of the stoning of Stephen) is then converted and begins his ministry. He delivers to us the Dispensation of Grace that now treats both Jews and Gentiles as one, allowing all to come to God by faith!

Rom 11:25

25 For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.

Eph 2:13-16

13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.

14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;

15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;

16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:

Once we understand when and why God changed his administration or dispensation, we can better understand how we are to live today as Christians. This understanding of the Mystery, as Paul calls it, will help us to live powerful Christian lives for God. Let's continue with Jesus and the rulers of Israel.

Jesus continued to upset the leaders of Israel, and eventually, with the help of Judas, they capture Jesus and bring Him to Pilate. Again we see their deception and anger in these actions.

Matt 27:1-2

1 When the morning was come, all the chief priests and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death:

2 And when they had bound him, they led him away, and delivered him to Pontius Pilate the governor.

Matt 27:11-14

11 And Jesus stood before the governor: and the governor asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And Jesus said unto him, Thou sayest.

12 And when he was accused of the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing.

13 Then said Pilate unto him, Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee?

14 And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.

Christ was falsely accused and stands before the leaders silent. He was not guilty of any wrong doing, but they want Him crucified. Even Pilate knew He was not guilty of anything, and gave the nation of Israel an opportunity to change their decision. This was important, as the leaders were forced to make a decision that called for Christ's death. Again the nation had a chance to repent, but they did not.

Matt 27:15-18

15 Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would.

16 And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas.

17 Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ?

18 For he knew that for envy they had delivered him.

Of course, as we know, the leaders stirred up the masses and they called for Barabbas release. This was the second critical action taken by the nation of Israel.

The first was that they allowed John the Baptist to be killed. In that case they looked the other way and let him get beheaded without any objection or protest. Here, the second time, they as the nations leaders actively call to free Barabbas, causing Christ to die. In their third and final act of defiance, they personally take matters into their own hands and stone Stephen in Acts chapter 7. This third time will be the turning point and the setting aside of Israel. This third time will be the blaspheming of the Holy Spirit Jesus talked about in Matt. and Mark. However, before this can happen, Christ must first die on the cross.

As Christ was crucified that day, darkness came over the world and the veil in the temple was torn in half. At this point in history, Satan probably was celebrating and feeling like he had stopped the Kingdom from being set up on earth. As for as the disciples, they did not understand or know what the crucifixion meant. To them their leader, teacher and Messiah was dead. It's important to note what Jesus said on the cross; it would give Israel one more chance to repent and prepare for a Kingdom.

Luke 23:33-34

33 And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.

34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.

The modern church did not a start at this point in church history as most people believe. Instead this cry from Jesus to forgive the nation of Israel set up the offer of the Kingdom that is made to Israel in the first part of the book of Acts. This is why Peter preaches about their ignorance in Acts chapter 3.

Acts 3:12-17

12 And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk?

13 The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go.

14 But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you;

15 And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.

16 And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.

17 And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers.

This ignorance will give Israel one more chance to accept Christ as Messiah, repent and set up the Kingdom. It's very important to remember that the apostles were looking for the physical setting up of the Kingdom of God on earth. Remember how Jesus taught them to pray? They fully expected Jesus to return if Israel would repent. That's why they asked Jesus when He was coming back.

Acts 1:6-7

6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?

7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.

They also preached that the times of refreshing (or return) of Christ would happen once Israel as a nation repented. They fully expected God to set up an earthly Kingdom if Israel would repent or change to a Godly way of life.

Acts 3:19-20

19 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;

20 And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:

Jesus was to be sent back to earth to set up this Kingdom. This was the message to the nation of Israel in the first part of the book of Acts. Mistakenly, most of the Christian church tries to start the Body of Christ and the modern church at the beginning of Acts. However, salvation at this time, under the Kingdom is found in repentance and baptism, not by faith alone. We found this throughout the Gospels, and here again in Acts Peter is preaching to Israel, not the Gentiles, and the message is not by faith in the finished work of Christ, but by repentance and baptism as it was in the Gospels. The offer of the Kingdom is still being made at this point in the book of Acts as God is still dealing with Israel.

Acts 2:22

22 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:

Acts 2:38

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.

Not understanding that this message was to Israel and still a part of the Kingdom offer causes great confusion in Christianity today. By confusing the Kingdom offer and the Dispensation of Grace many believers are confused, frustrated and saddened. When these two administrations of God are mixed up, many misunderstandings about signs and wonders, prayer, healing, baptism, and salvation happen. Learning how and when the offer of the Kingdom ended is critical to our understanding of how to live a grace-filled life at peace with God. When we understand the timing of this change, and all the elements of our position in Christ we can enjoy great blessings and joy in our Christian experience.

The offer of the Kingdom continued until Stephen was called in to talk to the council or leaders at Jerusalem in Acts chapter 7. These men represent the nation of Israel and had one last opportunity to repent or change their ways, and accept Jesus as their Messiah, which would then begin the earthly kingdom. However, true to form and full of themselves and their self-righteousness, they do not repent, but get very angry, mob Stephen and stone him to death.

Acts 7:51-60

51 Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye.

52 Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers:

53 Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it.

54 When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth.

55 But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,

56 And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.

57 Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord,

58 And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul.

59 And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.

60 And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

This stoning of Stephen (while filled with the Holy Spirit v. 55 from above) is a turning point in Israel's history. They have been shown that Jesus was the Messiah that was predicted in the Old Testament. Stephen has made it plain to the council that they killed Jesus and rejected His message. Like their fathers before them, they too had rejected God's offer and now are set on stopping the Apostles in Jerusalem. In verse 54 we see that they are so angry that they bite and gnash on Stephen, who is full of the Holy Spirit. Then in verse 57 they mob him and take him out of the city and stone him. Stephen is filled with the Holy Spirit as they kill him, and I believe that this act is the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit that Jesus talked about in Matt and Mark. Remember the verses from before.

Matt 12:31-32

31 Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.

32 And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.

Mark 3:28-29

28 Verily I say unto you, All sins shall be forgiven unto the sons of men, and blasphemies wherewith soever they shall blaspheme:

29 But he that shall blaspheme against the Holy Ghost hath never forgiveness, but is in danger of eternal damnation:

This was the council of leaders for the nation of Israel stoning Stephen, and as a group they represented the whole nation of Israel. Notice at whose feet they laid down their clothes, Saul, who becomes Paul. This point in its rejection of the Kingdom offer and Jesus as their Messiah. Thewas a sign of authority, and Saul was in charge of the stoning. Israel had reached a critical y had committed the unpardonable sin against the Holy Spirit. It is interesting to note the last thing Stephen says as he is dying.... "Lay not this sin to their charge"; he understood the significance of what was happening. It is at this same time in history that the offer of the Kingdom is put on hold, and the Dispensation of Grace begins. From this point forward, salvation will go out to the whole world, to both the Jew and Gentile, as God has concluded them all in unbelief!

Rom 11:32

32 For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all.

This powerful truth is what dispensational study is all about. In the next chapter we will explore this further, and see how God has dealt with man throughout the ages. When we understand dispensational divisions, we will live of Christian faith accurately and powerfully. The more we know about our relationship to God, the better equipped we are to share the love of Christ to a lost world. Studying the word " rightly divided" will also bless you with a deeper relationship with God, and deliver:

Phil 4:7

7 - the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Chapter 8

Why We Study the Bible Dispensationally?

If we picked up an American history book and started reading about George Washington, then about Abe Lincoln, then about President Roosevelt, we would get very confused if we didn't put a time line to these stories. All these men dealt with war, all made important decisions, and all were presidents. However with out knowing when they lived and who they were dealing with, we would be very confused! This is the same for many believers who have never understood the timeline of activities, and actions of God in dealing with man. It is very important that we understand to whom God is dealing with and when, as we read a Bible passage. This is called dispensational Bible Study. If we don't understand this we will be very confused most of the time.

God, through Paul gives us an important commandment about rightly dividing the word of truth.

2 Tim 2:15

15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Notice what Paul writes, "Rightly dividing the word of truth", there are important divisions in our Bibles, and understanding where they are and who they address is most important. We have, and will spend a lot of time referring to the different dispensations of God in this book. It is important that we understand when and how they were started, and why and how they ended. This knowledge will help us understand how God is working today in the Dispensation of Grace. While we are dealing primarily with the Dispensation of Grace (the age we live in) for our studies, Let's begin with a look at what a dispensation is.

A Dispensation, refer to a time frame in history or the different ways in which God has worked and continues to work with man for salvation throughout time.

God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow, (All of Salvation is by God's Grace) Dispensational theology outlines the different ways in which God has worked and continues to work with mankind.

To see this clearer, let's look at a dispensation and see how it is constructed. Each dispensation begins with:

1. A responsibility for man by God.

2. It ends with a failure by man and a period of divine judgment.

Below is a chart I got off the internet that visually shows how God has dealt with man throughout time.

To help us better understand this we will look at each of the seven dispensation they are:

INNOCENCE, CONSCIENCE, HUMAN GOVERNMENT, PROMISE, LAW, GRACE, and THE MELENIUM or KINGDOM

Today, we live in the Dispensation of Grace, but understanding past dispensations will help us see how God has dealt with man, and when and why things changed. Then later in this chapter we will look at many of the common problems Christians experience when they fail to understand this important truth and combine different dispensation together.

I will list each dispensation along with the corresponding verses to help you see when it started, how it progressed, and how and when it ended. Rather then fill these pages with verses; I have listed them so you can easily look them up in your Bible. Again we are surveying the different dispensations so we understand how God has dealt with man through the ages.

1. The dispensation of Innocence

The beginning:

Gen 1:1-3

a. God offers man (Adam and Eve) eternal life for obedience

Gen 1:26-28, Gen 2:15-17

b. Man rebels, and is expelled from the Garden of Eden

Gen 3:1-6

This was mans falling in the fist dispensation... and they were judged.

Gen 3:7-19

2. The dispensation of Conscience (Genesis 4- 6):

a. God offers to govern man through his conscience

Gen 3:5, Gen 3:7, Gen 3:22, Gen 4:4

b. Man turns to evil, and God brings the universal flood

Gen 6:5-6, Gen 6:11-12, Gen 6:7, Gen 6:13,

Gen 7:11-17

3. The dispensation of Government (Genesis 7- 11):

a. God offers to govern man through civil government

Gen 8:15-9:9

b. Man corrupts civil government, and God brings the confusion of tongues and scatters man.

Gen 11:1-9

4. The dispensation of Promise (Genesis 12 - Millennial Kingdom):

a. God promises to bless Abraham and his descendants, and all nations through him.

Gen 12:1-7, Gen 22:17-18

b. Jacob's sons lose their reverence, and God brings them into slavery in Egypt

Ex 1:8-14

5. Law (Exodus 20 -- Millennial Kingdom):

a. God promises to grant Israel the promises he made to Abraham conditional to their obedience to his Law

Ex 19:3-8

b. Israel rejects Godliness, rejects Christ, and is set aside.

John 19:14-16, Acts 7:52-60

6. The dispensation of Grace.

a. God temporarily suspends working through Israel as his chosen nation and offers to work through all believers in Jesus, both Jews and Gentiles together in one "body" as "joint heirs." This "mystery" dispensation was not revealed by God until after Israel rejected Christ and the apostles offer of God's Kingdom on earth. God then raised up the apostle Paul to reveal his plan of salvation by faith alone, which was "hidden" from past generations.

Rom 16:25-26, Eph 1:9-10, Eph 3:3-9

b. True believers are raptured out of the dispensation of grace as the rest of the world rejects Godliness.

2 Tim 3:1-7, 1 Thess 4:13-18

7. The Millennial Kingdom (Revelation 20):

a. God fulfills all of his promises to national Israel after the Second Coming of Jesus

Isa 11:3-7, Zech 14:9

b. Satan starts a rebellion against Jesus, which God terminates and then judges all men at the Great White Throne

Rev 20:7-15

It all ends with a new heaven and a new earth! Pure and full of love a complete circle back to God... Always based on grace and Gods love for us...

Rev 21:1 21:1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.

As you can see God has dealt with man differently throughout time. God's principal have remained the same

( Justification, Grace, Sin etc.) but how God deals with man has changed.

Just think, everyone who is born again believes in some form of dispensationalism, or you would try and obey the law of the Old Testament for your salvation.

Can you see the importance of understanding who God is dealing with when studding your Bible? Can you see how you could get very confused if you combined different dispensations together? In the previous chapter we explored some of the problems with not recognizing dispensational divisions. In this section we will look at some of the more common problems that arise from failing to see these dispensational changes. These differences are often explained away by the modern church as "Not being literal... or What God really means is..." etc. They fail to see who God or Christ is dealing with, and under what dispensation.

The most common mistake is to combine Jesus' earthly ministry (the offering of a Kingdom to Israel) with the Dispensation of Grace. This miss understanding causes many believers to feel defeated and confused. Compare the following scriptures, and try to make both of them apply to your life.

Matt 6:14-15

14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:

15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

Eph 4:32

32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.

The first scripture is a conditional action, the second is a request made out of love. Let's look at salvation.

Matt 24:13

13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.

Eph 2:8-9

8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Today there is no endurance needed for salvation, just a personal belief. Below, notice whom Christ is dealing with and where he sends his disciples.

Matt 10:5-7

5 These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not:

6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Rom 1:13-16

13 Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles.

14 I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise.

15 So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also.

16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

Notice a difference here? If we don't study dispensationally, we cannot make both of these verses true! It's important that we don't try to spiritualize or change either of these verses. Often when a conflict arises people try to change it's meaning or to spiritualize it. This type of thinking changes the focus of God's word and is not truth. However if we understand dispensational divisions all scripture fits together. Let's see some more examples.

James 2:24

24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.

Rom 4:4-5

4 Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt.

5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.

There is a major dispensation difference between these sets of verses. If you do not understand when theses changes occurred, then you can and will get confused reading your Bible. All scripture is given for our UNDERSTANDING, and must be studied in its correct context.

2 Tim 3:16-17

16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

Scripture is given for doctrine, our learning and understanding. It is given for Reproof, or to prove what is so. We study the past to better know where we stand today.

Rom 15:4

4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

Scripture is also given for correction and instruction in righteousness. This is how we learn about our position and calling, how we are to show the world the love and Grace of God. A dispensational study of the Bible will lead to the core of the word of God.

Today we live in the age of Grace, and the message we enjoy (Salvation by faith) was given to Paul the apostle for this dispensation. He is the Apostle to the Dispensation of Grace, and he was given a full understanding Gods message for man today. We need to look to Paul to get a complete picture of our relationship with God.

Eph 3:2-6

2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:

3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,

4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)

5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;

6 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:

Col 1:25-27

25 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God;

26 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:

27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

Gal 1:11-12

11 But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.

12 For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Notice that Paul got his message by direct revelation, and that he is the primary teacher for this dispensation. We learn about our salvation, position, and purpose from his teachings.

Unfortunately most of the modern church fails to see these important changes, ( from the kingdom offer made by Christ to Israel, and the Dispensation of Grace) and still lives in the Gospels trying to live as Christ's disciples did while Jesus walked the earth. Things have changes since Christ was on earth again let's compare:

Acts 2:44-45

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

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

Acts 5:1-5

1 But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession,

2 And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet.

3 But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?

4 Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.

5 And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things.

Rom 15:25-26

25 But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints.

26 For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem.

Notice what happened here. In the early part of Acts they had a commune type of living arrangement and all involved had all they needed. Then later Paul is taking up contribution for the poor saints at Jerusalem... what happened to them? Why did they not have all they needed? The answer is that the dispensation had changed, God was now dealing with the whole world not just Israel. What they once enjoyed under the kingdom offer was not available any more.

Luke 11:9-10

9 And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.

10 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

Now they ( the church at Jerusalem ) needed help because the times had changed! They no longer operated with the power given under the kingdom offer, and Paul understood this and was collecting money to help them.

As we can see things had changed dramatically for the early church at Jerusalem. We must study our bibles rightly dividing the scriptures, to have the correct and fuller understanding that God wants us to have. It is an important element in studying and understanding God's will for our lives.

Here are some conflicts in prayer that Christians experience when they do not understand dispensational truth.

Matt 7:7-8

7 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:

8 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

Matt 18:19-20

19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.

20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

Matt 21:22

22 And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.

John 14:13-14

13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

14 If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.

John 16:23

23 And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you.

These are powerful statements. Yet when people try to practice these today, and don't get the same results, they make up some reason for there failure. Here are the most common excuses:

1. God doesn't mean this literally

2. We are not spiritual enough

3. We only get this relationship with God, if he is happy and pleased with us

Now let's look at what is expected of us today in the dispensation of grace.

Col 4:3-4

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:

4 That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.

Phil 4:6-7

6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Notice the difference? Under the dispensation of Grace, we pray for the work of the Lord to be done, pray for one another, we pray with thanksgiving, and the Holy Sprit, intercedes on our behalf. ( Remember you are now in Christ, a part of the body of Christ, what more could we, or should we need.)

Rom 8:26

26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

Today we have a prayerful mind set that focuses on getting out the word of God, the message of Grace, and the mystery of this current dispensation. The focus is not primarily on our individual needs, but on the furthering of the gospel of Christ. This is in sharp contrast to what Jesus promised his disciples, where whatever they prayed for they would receive.

Today the spirit intercedes for us and when we pray we don't get everything we pray for, however we do enjoy the peace of God that passes all understanding.

The goal of this dispensation of grace is to reach the entire world!

Eph 3:8-9

8 Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;

9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:

2 Cor 5:18-20

18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

Can you see the importance of understanding who God is dealing with and when that changed throughout history? While the whole Bible is for us, we must understand what is to us for our daily lives. When we do this, and rightly dividing the word, it empowers us through God's love to be effective Christians in a lost world. Understanding dispensational theology will bring your Christian experience to its highest level

Chapter 9

The Dispensation of Grace

The stoning of Stephen in Acts chapter 7 began a time of transition from the Kingdom offer made exclusively to Israel, to The Dispensation of Grace now available to all who seek it. Today, anyone can come to God by faith and be forgiven of their sins through God's grace. This new and exciting message was delivered to the world by Paul the Apostle to the Gentiles. He was called Saul before his conversion and was the chief prosecutor of the Jewish believers. In fact, he was in charge of the stoning of Stephen. When we look back on it through the perspective of time we can see God's powerful grace being given to one of his greatest enemies. What an example of love! Even after the stoning of Stephen, Saul (Paul) continued to rein terror against the disciples.

Acts 9:1-2

1 And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest,

2 And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.

Saul was emerging as a leader of those who persecuted the believers and was looking to extend his authority to outlying areas. He was planning a trip to Damascus and expected to find many along the way. However, God had different plans for him!

Acts 9:3-9

3 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven:

4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?

5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

6 And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.

7 And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man.

8 And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.

9 And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.

It is at this point that God begins the dispensation of grace by redeeming a wicked man who had devoted his life to persecuting Christians even unto death. This was a life-shaking experience for Saul-Paul. Here he experiences the first of many personal meetings he had with Jesus. He is the only Apostle to experience Jesus first-hand and personally after His ascension. Saul's conversion is a perfect example of God's sovereign election. It is quite evident that Saul would have never been converted unless God had taken the initiative. Paul's conversion is a powerful example of God's grace and forgiveness, which Paul later recognized as a pattern of God's grace.

1 Tim 1:16

16 Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.

Paul was the first person brought into the Dispensation of Grace, the first one saved by faith in what Christ accomplished on the cross.

1 Cor 3:10-11

10 According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.

11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

Paul was called from the beginning of his life to serve God, again helping us to see that all of this was part of God's plan from the beginning.

Gal 1:13-16

13 For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it:

14 And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.

15 But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace,

16 To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood:

God's plan that was "hid from generations" would begin to play out. This hiding of the full understanding of what Jesus' death on the cross would represent was an important element in God's program of repentance and forgiveness in the Dispensation of Grace.

Rom 11:30-33

30 For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief:

31 Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy.

32 For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all.

33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!

This was a great and new message totally different from the offer of the Kingdom, a message of Grace to all who would believe by faith...a NEW and revolutionary offer from God! Now the whole world would have the opportunity to spend eternity with God. This great secret (what the death and resurrection would mean) was hid from the ages so that Christ could and would be nailed to the cross. Remember what we learned before, if Satan knew God's full and eternal plan, he would have never let Jesus die on the cross. This element of salvation had to be hid from all generations. Grace and salvation by faith in a risen Christ is a revolutionary concept that has changed the world. It is the single greatest incident in history, and has had more impact on the world than any other event. If Satan had any idea that it would mean all this, and that by Jesus' death the entire world could be reconciled to God, he would never have let Christ die! When the crowds called to release one prisoner, they would have called for Jesus' release instead of Barabbas. This is why the operation of God and salvation through the death of Christ had to be kept secret. This is why Paul calls the Dispensation of Grace a mystery! The full understanding of it was hidden for a very good reason!

Rom 16:25-26

25 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,

26 But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:

Paul, the chief sinner against the Apostles, is given a position in grace to deliver this new message. Who better to use as an example of grace than your former chief enemy! He was made a minister because of his ignorance and unbelief. Where have we seen this before? THE OFFER TO ISRAEL IN THE EARLY PART OF ACTS! Israel was also given a second chance after crucifying Jesus because of their ignorance and unbelief.

Acts 3:17-19

17 And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers.

18 But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled.

19 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;

Remember what Jesus said on the cross, he asked for the forgiveness of Israel, and opened up another opportunity for them to repent.

Luke 23:34

34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.

Do you see God's plan in all this? Now Paul was being called out to deliver a message that would be available to the entire world, both Jews and Gentiles, a message of God's grace and love that includes all we need to be at peace with God, all we need to enjoy a life-long relationship with Him.

1 Tim 1:12-13

12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;

13 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.

Col 1:25-27

25 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God;

26 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:

27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

Eph 3:1-9

1 For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles,

2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:

3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,

4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)

5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;

6 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:

7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.

8 Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;

9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:

Paul is given this powerful and life-changing message by direct revelation from God. He is called out as the Apostles to the Gentiles and has a totally new and different message than the twelve other Apostles. He is given all the elements in the Dispensation of Grace. His understanding and insight is directly from God and was a revolutionary Gospel. It is easy for us looking back from our point in time to see how it all fits together, but at the time it was happening, this new message was difficult for the original Apostles to fully understand. This is why they called Paul back to Jerusalem to explain his teachings and clarify what he had been shown.

The disciples at Jerusalem did not understand this "better way" and were probably very skeptical. They did not understand salvation by faith alone, and were still preaching and acting out a Kingdom message.

Gal 1:18-19

18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days.

19 But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord's brother.

During his first visit to Jerusalem, Paul meets with only Peter; at this meeting he shares what has been shown to him about Christ, faith, grace and forgiveness.

Acts 9:26-28

26 And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.

27 But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.

28 And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem.

Luke, the writer of Acts, here gives us little details of Paul's early ministry in Jerusalem. God wants us to know more about its activity and less about its content. I believe that Paul's message was not fully understood or accepted by the twelve at Jerusalem at that time. This is why he is called up again fourteen years later and still they have a hard time understanding the fullness of grace. We do, however, know that they tried to bring him back under the rituals of Judaism and the Kingdom message as we see in Galatians.

Gal 2:1-10

1 Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also.

2 And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain.

3 But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised:

4 And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage:

5 To whom we gave place by subjection, no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you.

6 But of these who seemed to be somewhat, (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man's person:) for they who seemed to be somewhat in conference added nothing to me:

7 But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter;

8 (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:)

9 And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.

10 Only they would that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do.

This passage is more significant then most think. It shows that they DID NOT fully understand salvation by faith, through grace. We know that Peter had a dream in Acts chapter 10 and was shown there was no difference between Jew and Gentile.

Acts 10:9-16

9 On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour:

10 And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance,

11 And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth:

12 Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.

13 And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat.

14 But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean.

15 And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.

16 This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven.

Peter was clearly not practicing what was shown him, and did not fully understand it. This is why Paul addresses him personally in Jerusalem. Peter had been shown differently and Paul calls him on it.

Gal 2:11-14

11 But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.

12 For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision.

13 And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation.

14 But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?

It is not until Paul comes and explains all this NEW truth that the twelve give him the right hand of fellowship. Paul had to explain this to them face to face. They simply did not comprehend it by themselves. Before this meeting, the only way, in their minds, to fulfill the "great commission "and go unto the entire world was to reach the world through Israel. Remember, the Apostles believed the world would be blessed through Israel. Just think, if the Kingdom was set up, would not there be peace and prosperity for the entire world in that new Kingdom Age? This is all the twelve knew, and Paul needed to share this new revelation with them. He needed to bring this fuller understanding of the Dispensation of Grace so they would understand and re-focus their ministry. The time had changed and now the twelve were enlightened as to these important changes. That's why in later books written by the twelve you see grace and faith and a complete understanding of the Dispensation of Grace

Chapter 10

Understanding the Body of Christ

The Body of Christ is found only in this Dispensation or Age of Grace. It is a unique relationship that is ours to enjoy once we are born again. This position in Christ is essential to our salvation. The more we learn about it, the greater joy and peace we experience in Christ. The operation of placing us into the Body of Christ gives us the perfection and sin-free state necessary to enter into an eternal relationship with God. We are placed into the Body of Christ through the work of the Holy Spirit the moment we believe.

1 Cor 12:13-14

13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

14 For the body is not one member, but many.

The Spirit places us together in Christ. It is a complete state, joined one to another to serve God in a perfected and sanctified state.

Eph 5:30

30 For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.

Rom 12:4-5

4 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:

5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.

This state of oneness is the Church in the Dispensation of Grace, not a building or location but a group of believers who collectively make up the church. Together all members work to further the Gospel. It is a unique position that includes a part of all our collective spiritual experiences.

Eph 1:22-23

22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,

23 Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.

This Body of Christ includes enjoying all the promises, position and benefits of being joint-heirs with Christ through the Holy Spirit! This is a unique position only given to believers in the Dispensation of Grace. Think about this wonderful sin-free state, spiritually speaking in Christ. Christ paid for our sin, and we being in Him can now stand sinless before God.

Eph 3:1-6

1 For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles,

2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:

3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,

4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)

5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;

6 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:

This is how we are blessed with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places! We receive this special place because we are members of Christ's body. Understanding this will keep you focused on the love of God and what he has done for you. This will then become a positive motivation for living for God.

Eph 1:2-3

2 Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

This position in Christ is only possible because we are part of Christ, or a member of his body. That's why we all have different skills and gifts, we each bring a unique perspective to the Body of Christ and by doing so meet all the needs of the church.

1 Cor 12:18

18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.

1 Cor 12:25-27

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

26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.

27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.

Eph 4:11-13

11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

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 fulness of Christ:

We are made alive in Christ through our faith; however, this is only possible by becoming a member of His being, or body. We are crucified, buried, risen, and made alive in Christ. This spiritual operation of our faith placing us in Christ is how salvation happens, and why we can enjoy eternity with God. Without being in the Body of Christ we would not be sin-free, and could not be with God. It is the operation of God that makes this all possible. What a beautiful operation it is!

Gal 2:20

20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

Rom 6:4-11

4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:

6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.

8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him:

9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.

10 For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.

11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Col 2:12-13

12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.

13 And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;

It is God's operation that places us in the Body of Christ, jointly all together to become the Church in this present age. Our salvation takes place because of our position in Christ, through our faith. It frees us from condemnation and sin. Today, as members we are to love and serve one another, and be ambassadors for Christ to this world! Being in the Body of Christ is a supernatural experience that places us sinless and perfected in God's eyes. It is then a logical conclusion to live a godly life, given what God has already done for us! What a great place to be for all eternity! This is why we can represent God in this world as his ambassadors.

2 Cor 5:19-20

19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

The more you study the Bible dispensationally the stronger your faith will become. Knowledge is the cornerstone of faith, and faith is the direct link to peace with your creator

Chapter 11

Living a Grace-Filled Life

Too many Christians live disappointing second-rate lives, filled with anxiety, insecurity and sadness. They live without the confidence, assurance and peace that comes from a life of freedom that a faith in Jesus Christ brings to every believer. Grace is the answer, and legalism is the enemy to living a fulfilling Christian life. Victory in your Christian experience is obtained in the same manner as salvation: by receiving and believing - not by works. Wow, this is a concept that will make many Christian teachers very uncomfortable. Sadly, they do not properly understand a true grace relationship. They focus on the wrong side of their relationship to God. We live for God by choice because of what He has already done for us.. not what we can get out of God. To fully live a Grace-filled life, you must have a life that is focused on God's grace and not your own performance or works.

Rom 6:11-13

11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

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

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

We can live this way because we are baptized into Christ, and now have the power to overcome sin. It is a position that we enjoy as Christians and members of the Body of Christ. This, however, does not mean that we won't sin, because we will. However, it does mean that we have the power to overcome sin, and we now have a choice in all sinful matters! This is a freedom that lets us focus, by choice, on a life pleasing to God. This is the newness of life that we all enjoy as Christians.

Rom 6:3-4

3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?

4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

The moment we trust Christ, we die with him. This baptism into Christ sets us free from sin, and this is now our new standing as Christians. This freedom is ours to give back to God. It is also why we have peace with God and the joy in our relationship with him.

Rom 6:17-18

17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.

18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.

This freedom from sin makes us servants of righteousness. Do you see the higher calling for us as Christians? We are to walk righteous because we are free from sin, not because God will punish us if we don't. Stop for a minute and examine your own actions... Why do YOU live for God? Are your motives in the right place? We must never forget our position and purpose in Christ. It is a higher calling than keeping some set of rules and regulations. Today we are called to live a life pleasing to God, and to give all! The difference is our motivation for doing so.

Gal 2:20

20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

The only way that you can be both dead and alive is that Christ lives in you! This is the glory of grace! Not only are we saved from damnation, but we enjoy access to Christ right now! Are you calling on Him, and do you access Christ? Christ is in us as believers; yet we sometimes forget this important truth! Instead we get so caught up in problems and worries that we lose sight of the joy of our Christian experience. When we focus on our failures and shortfalls we have been defeated by Satan. When this happens we become miserable Christians. Sadly most of Christianity is focused on setting rules and regulations for our relationship to God. When this happens we inevitably fall short of these standards and find ourselves focused on failure. We need to focus on our position in Christ and His position in us. When we do so, we live victorious Christian lives!

Col 1:27

27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

The results of Christ in us become the core of our spiritual center. It's a wonderful place to be, full of positive righteousness all the time.

Phil 1:11

11 Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.

Gal 5:22-23

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

The life we now lead freely is one of growth, understanding and experience. We all are tempted and all learn from our mistakes if we are focused on being Christ like.

Gal 4:1-3

1 Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all;

2 But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father.

3 Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world:

Gal 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.

Gal 5:1

1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

Look closely at these verses. They tell the story of being mature in Christ. We are complete and perfected in Christ. This special position in Christ gives each of us the power to live a Christ-like life. Freedom has two parts, freedom from, and freedom for, service. As mature Christians in Christ, we can voluntarily apply the wisdom of God to the details of our daily lives, making decisions based on the Word of God. This is what should govern our activities and focus. This is what a mature Christian enjoys, the freedom to serve out of love, not obligation. Just think, when we serve without obligation, we return love and reflect God's love to the lost world. It is a higher order of thinking but the reality of what grace is all about.

1Thes 2:13

13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.

2 Tim 2:15

15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

We are to make the Word of God real in our lives, and the Word should fill us with its truth. We could never accomplish this with our own will, but only through Christ living in us. Without being in the Body of Christ, we could never begin to live for God. This is an important understanding. In grace, Christ lives through us. We are His temple, and this is what empowers us, Christ, not ourselves. Our personal egos have no room in our service for God. However, if we are focused on rules and regulations, our egos will become the central focus. We can then be proud that we are following the rules and meeting the man-made expectations, etc. This is false thinking and leads to a most unhappy Christian experience. We must never forget it is God, not us, who works all good, and that we are to simply carry his love and message to the world.

Phil 2:13

13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

2 Cor 4:10-11

10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.

11 For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.

The freedom to serve God is a very hard concept for many people to understand. With a complete understanding of your position in Christ, and your standing in grace, you begin to see and understand being motivated by love to serve God. This thinking is not natural and actually goes against man's normal thinking. In nature, only those who are self-centered and look out for themselves survive. In the Body of Christ this whole survival mode is turned around. The moment you are saved, you are given a perfect standing in God's eyes, and the only thing left for you to do is give back to the world all that has been given to you. The moment we are saved we have it all: God's love, His grace, His sanctification, and all spiritual blessings. Our job as Christians is to give it away to others so they can help others, and so on. It all starts and ends with God's grace and love. This is not a difficult way to live unless you change your motivation to one of obligation, not thanksgiving. This is powerful stuff when you think about it, contrary to nature but completely spiritual.

This supernatural relationship we enjoy with Christ is how we carry out the good work God has planned for this world. Don't rob yourself of the greatest joy known to mankind. Let Christ live in you, while you rest in God's hand of grace!

Eph 2:10

10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Eph 2:4-9

4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,

5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)

6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.

8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

What a beautiful relationship we enjoy as God's elect! His grace saves us, compels us, and we become an example for the entire world to see and understand. WE ARE SO RICH IN HEAVENLY BLESSINGS we can't begin to understand them all. Our freedom in Christ becomes the power to serve him... Thank God for all His grace and love. Understanding this creates an everlasting joy. It also compels us to share what we know and the next chapter can help make sharing Christ comfortable and effective. Always remember we are not "selling" Jesus, but simply sharing what our relationship with him means to us.

Chapter 12

Understanding Chastisement

To fully understand grace and our position in the dispensation of grace, we must look at the area of chastisement. This is a very misunderstood area of our Christian experience. Many Christians have been taught that God chastens those he loves, or that God lovingly punishes Christians to keep them in line. While this is an easily understandable position, is it scriptural for those who are in the body of Christ? Does God continue to chastise his people in the dispensation of grace or is there another even more powerful way based on love, not fear, to help believers live for Christ? Let's explore how God truly deals with man today, not what religion teaches, but what the Bible teaches. Let's look to God for the answers not men and there denominational teachings.

We must begin by remembering what God wants from us. What does he want us to be? What does the Bible say? What does God expect from us? These are important questions that all begin at the same place, faith. The most important thing God requires of us is our faith!

Heb 11:6

6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

The second thing we must realize that as members of the body of Christ we are in a totally different position than Old Testament believers or those in the kingdom age.

Today under the dispensation of Grace our relationship has become a personal one with God. Now anyone in the world can come to God through faith or belief, in what Christ did on the cross. It is an individual decision that is open to the whole world, not just a chosen few. This is no longer a collective or corporate representation of God but the most intimate and personal commitment an individual can make. We each make a commitment in our own heart, personally and privately. We are not judged on our actions for salvation, but once saved enjoy a changed life in the body of Christ. We have the Holy Spirit in us and enjoy the Holy Spirits guidance and influence in our live. We have all become God's temple and joint heirs through Christ.

Did you ever wonder why in the dispensation of grace we need only faith to access our salvation? Why it is faith and only faith that begins the action of salvation? Let's explore this further and see how being "In Christ" makes a difference.

Under the Old Testament God created a program of redemption for mankind. This program was executed through God's chosen people Israel. At that time in history, any Jew could follow the sacrifices laid out, and they would have their sins covered until the coming of Christ. If you were not a Jew, then there was a way that you could become Jewish and participate in this redemption as well. It was a standard program that all could participate in. A yearly action that was required to redeemed you.

Under the kingdom offer made by Christ to the nation of Israel, you had to repent (change from your past ways, and follow Jesus) and be baptized for your salvation. While it has always been your faith or belief that saved you, the actions needed were also a part of your redemption.

Today in the dispensation of grace we are saved by our faith... alone. This is the most personal level of commitment God asks of each of us. Today there are no outward activities or actions needed. Just a very personal and private belief in what Christ accomplished on the cross.

The reason we need to be so personal, is we must meet God's personal level of commitment he made to us! He gave himself as a sacrifice for our sins.

2 Cor 5:17-19

17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

HE died for us. It doesn't get any more personal than that! Today both we and God are on the most personal of levels, a place not available to believers in the past. Today we are "in Christ" or in a bigger sense "In God" saved for all eternity!

It begins with our redemption...

Rom 3:24

24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:

Rom 8:1-2

8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

2 Cor 1:21-22

21 Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God;

22 Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.

Today we enjoy not only being "In Christ" for our redemption, but we have the Holy Spirit in us as a guarantee of that redemption.

Being "In Christ" also puts us in a special place in God's overall plan for mankind. We must never forget we enjoy a place much closer to God than anyone before the dispensation of grace.

Eph 3:11-12

11 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:

12 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.

Eph 1:3

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

Eph 2:6-7

6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

This is very different than those in the Old Testament or during the offer of the kingdom. No one in God's previous dispensations enjoyed our level of intimacy with God. We are in a very different state and position with God than in the past.

With this understanding, how does this relate to God's chastisement of believers?

let's look at Paul's epistles and see what God says about our sin and his dealing with it.

How many times is the word chastised used in Paul's teachings? Or the word correct, the word punish, the word discipline? Exactly 0 times!

We do see the word Judgment used 19 times, but always as it pertains to the unsaved! Never to the Christians.

The word Chastened is used 3 times in Paul's epistles, twice in reference to unbelievers, and once in reference to Paul's ministry and being persecuted. Surprised? Check it out for yourself! Remember religion is not true spirituality!

THE WORLD AND OUR POSITION IN IT

To understand our position lets look at this diagram I found on the internet.

Picture the circle as your world, and the path in the middle the Godly way to live. The middle path is where God wants us to live for our own good. He has set-up the righteous way to live, and we are to follow it. However when we set outside of his path, we experience a world influenced by evil. It is in the space off the path that we deal with negative issues and experiences. Let's look closer.

HOW IT ALL FITS TOGETHER

1. We know that outside of the Godly path is a world run by Satan

Eph 2:2

2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

2. Paul teaches us the right way to live, ( for our own good) In the dispensation of grace.

Titus 2:2-14

2 That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience

3 The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;

4 That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,

5 To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

6 Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded.

7 In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,

8 Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.

9 Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again;

10 Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.

11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,

12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;

13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

Paul's epistles are full of verses on how we are to live. He teaches us how to live a Godly life, and why it's important.

1 Cor 6:17-20

17 But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit.

18 Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that commiteth fornication sinneth against his own body.

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.

It is very important that we live Godly lives as an example to the world, and to enjoy all that God has for us to do in his service. ( However why we do it is not based on God punishing or chastising me if I do not do it.) As radical as this seems it is the cornerstone to our position in grace. Think about it for a minute, how can we have any sin, past, present or future, and be in the body of Christ? Remember what propitiation means. As if the sin never existed in the first place! This is the power and freedom of grace.

3. Paul also explains this position in grace further.

1 Cor 6:12

12 All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.

Let's look at this very closely, in our position in Christ we are forgiven.. All sins, past, present and future.. All sin is forgiven, all things are lawful.... But all things are not healthy for us. When we stray out of the path of righteousness (off the center path in our circle above) we fall into the world and have to deal with Satan's negative world full of pain and hurt. This world has many consequences for our behavior. This is the punishment so to speak that happens to us when we are out of Gods fellowship and in the world. However we must remember that this is not God doing this to us, but a consequence of our actions stepping out of Gods path! Paul teaches us to seek a higher level of commitment, driven by the love of Christ when dealing with these issues

Rom 14:12-19

12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.

13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.

14 I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean.

15 But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died.

16 Let not then your good be evil spoken of:

17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

18 For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men.

19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.

LOVE IS FAR STRONGER THAN FEAR OF PUNISHMENT AS A MOTIVATOR FOR GODLY LIVING.

Our responsibility is to reach out with God's grace and love, not judging one another and not causing strife or issues with those around us. We are called to be an example of all of God's traits, to the world, as well as for our own good. God has established a beautiful path that we have the choice to live by or not.

It is also part of the Holy Spirits job, to make us aware when we stray from Gods path. This is a significant reason we have the Holy Spirit, to guide us and be our intersession between God and Man. Remember, the Spirit inside each of us, is only available in the dispensation of grace, it was not a part of the Old Testament or kingdom offer.

Rom 8:14-16

14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.

16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:

Rom 8:26-27

26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

let's review what we know:

We are in Christ perfected by God

1. The world is run by Satan and not a good place to be.

2. God has a path for us to follow, and he revealed it to us through Paul's teachings.

3. Everything is legal to us under Grace but certainly not profitable, even controlling if we let it.

4. We are not to cause others to stumble by our actions and are called to a higher order of living than simply right or wrong, we are to act as Christ and be his representative in this world.

5. The Holy Spirit is here to help us discern things, protect us, and act as a mediator between ourselves and God.

Our position in Christ is the POWER of GRACE. It is our freedom in Christ that becomes the greatest motivation for living Godly lives through love. This freedom does not have some level of personal punishment (regardless how small) connected to it. If it did, then GRACE has no value at all.

The word Chastened is used 3 times in Paul's epistles so let's look at it closely. God chastens the unbeliever to bring us onto Christ.. How many people find Christ after or during crisis? Difficult times cause man to look outside himself for answers.. Leading to God. I believe this is what Paul is talking about here in 1 Cor.

1 Cor 11:27-34

27 Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.

(Be sure you are a Christian before participating in communion)

28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup.

29 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body.

(Anyone who has not the faith is unworthy)

30 For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep

(Talking about the un-saved here)

31 For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.

(Another words examine yourself, to be sure you are a believer)

32 But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world

(Again the judgment of the un-saved to bring them to Christ so they will not be condemned with the Lord)

These verses deal with making sure you examine yourself to be sure you accept Christ before partaking in communion. In this next set of verses we see the word used in connection to what Paul has dealt with in his ministry. Let's look.

2 Cor 6:1-13

6:1 We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.

2(For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)

3 Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed:

4 But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,

5 In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings;

6 By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned,

7 By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,

8 By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true;

9 As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed;

10 As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.

11 O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged.

12 Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels.

13 Now for a recompence in the same, (I speak as unto my children,) be ye also enlarged.

Vs 9 here, is talking about the trials Paul has under gone at the hands of the world, his personal persecutions that he has endured.

The next time the word is used again it is in bringing the Jews as unbelievers to Christ

Heb 12:9-10

9 Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?

10 For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness.

This is talking about bringing the Jewish nation to a place of acceptance of Christ. Remember the book of Hebrews is all about helping the Jewish nation to understand and accept Christ.

Another set of verses that people turn to when dealing with chastisement is found in 1 Corinthians chapter 5. Let's look at this closely and understand what is taught here.

1 Cor 5

5:1 It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father's wife.

2 And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from among you.

3 For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed,

4 In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ,

5 To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.

6 Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump?

7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us:

8 Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.

9 I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators:

10 Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world.

11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.

12 For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within?

13 But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person

Here Paul tells them to not associate with this individual any more. It is not a good thing to do, and the individual needs to know it is unacceptable behavior. Notice where he is to go (verse 5) onto Satan for the destruction of the flesh. In other words out of the pathway of Godliness unto the world where he will be destroyed by the natural consequences of his behavior, in Satan's world! This is what happens when we stray off the path God has for us. We create our own punishment as such when doing so.

We are called to live a Godly life through love. It is the highest of honor to serve God as his representative in this world. We have all the information and tools we need in our Bibles to enjoy all that God has for us. Our freedom in Christ is a freedom to serve, and when we understand all that God has done for us, and where we stand, we are overwhelmed by it all, and serve out of love. It becomes our reasonable service to live for Christ and the greatest blessing of all. However, if we choose to live un-Godly we experience the un-Godly world, run by Satan, and reap the consequences of our actions. God has allowed Satan to exist so we can make a choice, otherwise we would be as angels. This choice we make, through grace becomes the most powerful force in all of creation.. It starts with God's love and ends with our love back to God. NOTHING can be greater than this! It is God's eternal circle of love that connects us by free will to him.

This freedom in grace becomes our motivation to live out of love, serving God in the dispensation of grace. There is no other force stronger in the universe than the love of God! It is what changes everything!

Chapter 13

Sharing Your Faith in Christ

For many people sharing their faith and belief in God seems to be a difficult task. Not because they don't believe, but because explaining those beliefs comfortably and effectively can be hard to do. They worry that they might "mess it up" or say something wrong or confusing. This chapter will explore witnessing and how it can be a natural extension of your life and not a stressful activity.

Things to remember when witnessing for Christ

1. We are not selling Jesus. We share our belief and faith, and if the Holy Spirit moves in a person's heart, he is drawn to a belief in Christ. The salvation of others is not in your hands but God's; all we do is explain and share our faith.

Rom 8:29-30

29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.

30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.

II Th 2:13-14

13 But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth:

14 Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

You are saved because you heard the Gospel and believed it; no one sold you on Jesus. Our job is to lovingly share and tell others about what we know and experience. This takes it out of the "selling" area and places it where it should be, a sharing of our belief. We first live for Christ, and then study to be a workman that understands our position in Christ and God's grace. This knowledge is then shared with those who want to know more. We are to be prepared and ready; God handles the rest.

Rom 10:17

17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

2 Cor 5:19-20

19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

Our job is to represent God in this world and to preach and teach the Gospel. We are to show all men God's program of salvation, by faith. We present an offer that was a great mystery to the world until revealed to the Apostle Paul.

Eph 3:2-9

2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:

3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,

4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)

5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;

6 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:

7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.

8 Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;

9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:

2. Our job is to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, that salvation is available to all, and through faith not works; it is a gift of God's grace!

The strongest form of witnessing is your lifestyle, and how you live. Can people see the love of God in your life and actions? How do you handle difficult times? When you don't act very Christ-like how do you make amends? How you live your life and your reactions to everyday experiences will speak louder than anything you could say! This is our first and most important opportunity to help others see, hear, and understand God's offer of salvation.

The following is a simple way of presenting salvation. It can be a format to follow that will help take some of the fear out of presenting God's plan of salvation.

The Plan of Salvation

1. A person needs to recognize their sinful state.

We are all sinful and cannot be with God because of it.

Rom 3:23

23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

Rom 1:18

18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

Isa 64:6

6 But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.

This is our natural state and God cannot accept us in this ungodly state

2. We are justified by our faith, or belief, in what Christ accomplished on the cross

Rom 4:5

5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.

Eph 2:8-9

8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Gal 2:16

16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.

Phil 3:9

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

If we believe in Christ and what He did, our faith, or belief, will justify us in God's eyes. This happens because our faith places us into the Body of Christ, who has already paid for sin by dying on the cross!

3. Our faith places us in Christ, into the body of Christ- the same body that has already paid for our sin.

1 Cor 12:13-14

13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

14 For the body is not one member, but many.

Eph 4:4-6

4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;

5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism,

6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

Eph 2:18-19

18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

4. Our faith and placement into Christ makes us perfect and sinless, and places us into the family of God.

Rom 5:8-10

8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.

Rom 8:1-2

1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

Rom 5:1-2

1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

This is how we are saved, by our faith in what Christ accomplished on the cross. His death was our payment for sin, and when we accept this by faith we are saved. We are at peace with God. a new creation in God's eyes.

2 Cor 5:17-21

17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

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.

5. Once saved, our spiritual home is in heaven, and we are identified with Christ.

Rom 6:5-7

5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:

6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.

Col 2:12

12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.

Eph 1:3-4

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:

Eph 2:6-10

6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.

8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

6. The Holy Spirit is our earnest or guarantee of our place in heaven. It is given as our assurance of salvation.

Rom 8:14

14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

Rom 8:16

16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:

2 Cor 1:21-22

21 Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God;

22 Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.

Eph 1:13-14

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.

(Questions to ask the individual seeking Christ)

Do you understand.....

Are you ready to accept this offering of salvation...

This is not an emotional feeling, but an understanding and acceptance of what God has done for you.....

Do you want this for yourself, you simply have to honestly ask for it, to accept Christ as your Savior...

Do you want this now..... Let's pray...

This is all we can do; from this point forward the Holy Spirit is in charge. We share the plan of salvation and let the other person seeking God lead the prayer. You might explain that in praying to God you are talking directly to Him, and that all a person has to do is ask for God's Salvation, believe that Christ paid for his sins, and that by placing his faith in the finished work of Christ he is saved!

After a person has made a decision for Christ, we must keep in touch and follow up with support, materials, prayer and fellowship. A new believer has so much to learn, and I believe that we must keep very close to a new child in Christ. For example you might study this book together.

Remember we are not selling Jesus, but sharing, through our actions first, and then our words... our faith and belief in Christ. Let the love of God and the Holy Spirit do the work... be an ambassador for Christ, not a salesman!

Chapter 14

Joy and the Christian Experience

If there has been one aspect of the Christian experience that I feel most people misunderstand, it is the joy of our salvation. A lot of Christians walk around with a sad and mournful existence. They have set up a standard of performance that creates failure, and have decided to live under some standard that has no true Biblical basis. They live with many "shoulds" or "coulds" and are truly not accepting the finished work of Christ.

`We are all full of sin and failure, and we can never work enough to win favor with God. This is why a full understanding of God's grace is so important to us. Only when we stop our performing and simply accept the finished work of Christ do we find complete, and peace-fulfilling joy.

Understanding for Joy

When we believe, we partake in the finished work of Christ. Let's look closely at the elements that come together. First, we are crucified with Him.

Gal 2:20

20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

Second, we are buried with Christ.

Rom 6:4

4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

Third, we are risen with Christ.

Col 2:12

12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.

Then, our faith is counted for righteousness.

Rom 4:5

5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.

WOW, what a position to be in, totally righteous, through the finished work of Christ! This is the only state to be in. I know we have spent a lot of time on these elements, but you must understand and apply this knowledge to your spiritual life to enjoy all the peace and joy available to you in Christ. This is not just for us to read about, but to LIVE! When we fail to accept this fully and rely in any way on our works or performance to win favor with God, we frustrate the grace of God.

Gal 2:21

21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.:

Do we frustrate the grace of God when we live with guilt or sadness? Or when we allow our human nature to pull us away from the focus on Christ? The answer is yes! God again is calling you to think on a higher plane. God's grace is sufficient for everything, not just some things. Today we live as members of the Body of Christ, not just on Sunday, but all week long. When we learn about and apply God's grace, we begin to enjoy God's peace.

Col 3:15

15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

1 Cor 10:17

17 For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.

The Spirit places us in Christ and gives us complete access to God. We are connected in all ways to God, both now and in the future. This total connection brings us the peace of God throughout our lives.

Eph 2:14-18

14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;

15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;

16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:

17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.

18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

The peace we enjoy with God is a part of our position through faith, yet so few of us access it regularly. Do you feel it? Can you feel it?

Rom 5:1

1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

As Christians, we should stand out from the rest of the world by being happy, joyful and at peace with God. Our first line of testimony should be our outlook on life and the problems we all face. Our way of life should reflect the love and work of Christ. The joy of our Christian life should attract others to it. Do people say, "Why are you so happy all the time?" Do people see joy and peace in how you react to problems at work? At home? This type of life is available to all that believe... it is the way God wants us to live.

2 Cor 5:17-21

17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

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.

We are to reach out with the love of Christ. AND REACH IN AS WELL! Wow, we're stepping on some toes now. Have you forgiven yourself from the issues in your past? Do you think God wants us to dwell in our past? GOD FORGIVES YOU ALREADY; don't frustrate the grace He offers by not forgiving yourself. We must remember we are redeemed already in God's eyes, and He wants us to accept ourselves as well. When we do not forgive ourselves we become defeated Christians. This is exactly what Satan wants. If we are defeated and down, we cannot project a positive life and reflect God's love to a lost world. Instead, we project a miserable life that will never attract anyone. Our testimony is ineffective and we live miserable Christian lives. God has already forgiven you, no matter what you're hanging on to, so it's time to forgive yourself! This is very important to understand. Failing to see accept God's forgiveness has defeated many Christians. God is greater then all your sin. Do you believe it? Can you live it? God has already purified you. Let yourself enjoy it as well!

Titus 2:13-14

13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ;

14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

God sees us in Christ, as perfect and purified. We need to live out such a peaceful and joyful life that others should be moved by our example of love and joy!

It is very simple. Don't make it difficult, just accept and be thankful for God's eternal love and plan for your life. Then live like a redeemed and sanctified believer at peace, and full of hope and joy.

Chapter 15

All You Need Is Love

The Beatles wrote a song "All You Need Is Love" in the mid 1960's as a call to simplifying and reaching for the core of human motivation. Well, they were on the right track but missed the spiritual element to making this song a reality. Everything in the Christian experience starts and ends with God's love. Love placed Christ on the cross, love forgave the Jewish leaders who called for Christ's crucifixion, love gave the nation of Israel many opportunities to repent, and love set in motion the Dispensation of Grace that has changed the world. God has always, and will always show His love to the world in many ways. It becomes our responsibility to accept and embrace it.

Love is the cornerstone to being at peace with God, and love becomes our motivator in doing God's work. Paul writes in Corinthians about love and says it all.

1 Cor 13:8-13

8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.

10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.

11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity. ( love)

In the end we will not need faith or hope, because we will already be with Christ. But charity or love is what started it all and will endure throughout time. That's why the greatest of these is love!(v.13)

To be mature Christians we must come back to the core motivation of it all, charity or love. It is the one principle that must motivate and drive all we are. When we understand and live it, all else becomes of little consequence. I hope this book has helped you to understand your unique position in Christ and in the Dispensation of Grace. If you are not in the body of Christ, it is time to make a decision for Christ. If you are a Christian, I hope this material will set you free to serve God, and enjoy the peace that passes all understanding. When we understand our Bibles rightly divided and apply dispensational truths, we are empowered by its clarity and focus to give all to God. It is God's desire that you enjoy your Christian life with a heart full of joy, thanksgiving, and service, always motivated by God's love, and what He has already done for you. It's a simple way of life that has been lost in a modern world, and sadly, to most of the modern Christian church as well. Let God's grace rule your life, and understand your position in Christ; together they will lead you on a path filled with peace and love from your Creator
