Chapter Two
Corporate Life in the Body of Christ
For as we have many members
in one body and all have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body
in Christ, and every one members one of another. Romans 12:4-5
Now you are the body of
Christ, and members in particular. 1 Corinthians 12:27
For we are members of his
body, of his flesh, and of his bones. Ephesians 5:30
As saints of the Lord, once you are born from above {John 3:3-7} and
receive the baptism of the
Holy Spirit {Acts 19:1-6}, the most important thing in your life is
reaching and fulfilling your purpose, place, and potential in the corporate
body of Christ. This will come in part in your quiet place, and in the corporate
anointing of the saints. For the balance to your private one-on-one with the
Father is corporate gathering, as some things the Holy Sprit may not reveal to
you alone, but in the dynamics of the corporate anointing. {Ps. 133:1-3; 1
Corinthians 14th chapter}
Throughout the years, apostles and evangelists have had a significant
place in pioneering the grace of God to “Go Ye Therefore.” Through their
instrumental support, countless many have not only become born again, but began
finding new meaning in Christ with a local assembly. Still, many precious new
believers remained without fellowship of the saints, and wandered about looking
for a spiritual family they can call home. In some severe cases, abuse and
misuse crept into the lives of some, turning them off from ever wanting to
become a part of a local church family. Nevertheless, God’s counsel continued
to stand as Psalms 68:6 confirms that the Lord takes the solitary and places
them into families, bringing them out of their chains.
The truth is, the church of the Lord Jesus Christ is visible and
invisible, local and universal. Though the church is global in concept,
eventually it would be good to identify with a local body of saints. For
whatever reason you care not to fellowship with a local church family, or
consider local churches to be unnecessary, the truth is, God provides every
opportunity for you and me to develop and establish our roots somewhere. For if
it were only left to the idea of being a mystical body of Christ alone, while
taking the initiative to float aimlessly here or there, then it would appear
that we are defeating our purpose for being a visible part of a local body of
saints. However, there may be some exceptional cases in this matter, as we
shall explain shortly.
For consider this, we have pushed and shoved church on so many that it
is no surprise or wonder at all that many refuse to take part in a growing
church family. This should not be the excuse to remain aloof from fellowship
with others, but it really does concern me when we promote “church” and church
causes at the expense of genuine ministry to genuine people. It becomes
unsettling to the stomach {spiritually speaking} to see many churches
positioning people as pawns on the chessboard stuffing the vision of the “church”
down their throats like thick dry pieces of rye bread. Though these precious
saints are either new in the faith, or new to the orientation of their newfound
local assembly, this is no way to begin a mutual relationship.
25
Therefore, we need to take a look into the
methods, motives, and mentalities of GOOD OLE CHURCH, and bring light,
illumination, and deliverance where necessary. For the idea of church can
sometimes be a colloquial trip. For the kingdom is not necessarily a part of
the church, but the church is rather, a part of the kingdom. {Think about that}
Methods, Motives, Mentalities
What does placing a few chairs in front of
the pulpit has to do with becoming a part of a local church? Nothing! It’s just
the traditions of old order assemblies that feel this is the best way to
introduce new believers and new members to their church family. In fact, the
way it’s done sparks an even further concern with me, as the persons seated in
these musical chairs must face the audience confessing their interest in church
membership and perhaps the kingdom, too.
Note below our observations of church as usual…
…Some
of the old traditions of mainline and Old Line religious systems are to pull
out the chairs in front of the assembly, requesting that new people would join
the church. The persons seated would be facing the audience while the presiding
minister asks the question, “Do you want to join our church?”
…Throughout
the corporate body of Christ, saints everywhere are encouraged to join the
church. But beloved, you do not choose to join the body of Christ.
Rather, it is the Lord God through the precious blood of his Son that places
you into the body of Christ as it pleases him. You may take on the right hands
of fellowship in a local assembly as recorded in Galatians 2:9, but again, no
one on their own joins the body of Christ. The blood of the Lamb privileges you
to be a part of his body. Where you identify, as a local church is the next
level, but remember Christ calls you and the Lord places you in the body as it
please him. 1 Corinthians 12:27-28 {read the entire 12th chapter of
1st Corinthians}
…What
God therefore has joined {Conjoined, marriage} together, let not man put
asunder. Mt. 19:6
…But
he that is joined {glued} to the Lord is one Spirit. 1 Corinthians 6:17
…You
have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that you should go
and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain…John 15:16
…Many
confuse Membership Ministry with becoming a member of a local church. However,
membership ministry is far from the practical side of filling out a form, or
signing on the dotted line. Membership Ministry is the fulfilling of your
purpose, place, and potential in the body of Christ. The only way for one to
function in the Membership Ministry of the Body of Christ {1st
Corinthians 12} is through the blood of Christ. If you are not a recipient of
the New Birth while taking on membership through a local church roster, you are
not a part of the body of Christ. You may even call yourself Christian, but
unless you are regenerated and transformed by a new nature from death to life,
you are still not a part of the corporate body of Christ. 2 Cor. 5:17
…{the
church}…Which is his body, the fullness of him that fills all in all. Ephesians
1:23
…Now
therefore you are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with
the saints, and of the household of God. And are built upon the foundation of
the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone.
In whom all the building fitly framed together grows unto a holy temple in the
Lord. In whom you are also built together for a habitation of God through the
Spirit. Ephesians 2:19-22
…For
we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bone. Ephesians 5:30
26
In the above mentioning of the Three “M’s” most believers would
probably be found sincere toward their orientation of ministry. In my
observations noted, there was no intention to label anyone as having erred from
the faith. Rather, to point out prevailing attitudes towards the introduction
of the concept of church. Regardless of the present positions of church leaders
still many today associate church with buildings, organizations, &
religious causes.
The
Body of Christ: What it is and is not
For now, we shall begin looking at the biblical meaning of the church,
the body of Christ. This will help us tremendously as we grow together in our
understanding of Christ the Head and Christ the body {the church of the living
God, the Lord Jesus Christ}. However, as we come to a more fuller expression of
what the body of Christ, it is chiefly important to understand what the church
or body is not. For everything done in the name of a church is not necessarily
Christ’s body.
What the Body of Christ or Church
is not…
1 - The Church or Body of Christ is not the parenthetical plan of God, or an insert
due to the Jew’s rejection of Jesus Christ. Rather, God’s eternal purpose is
centered in Christ and his church from the beginning. Though the vehicle or
instrument has changed over the years, God’ plan and purpose continues. Unlike
the popular notes of Scofield that exclaims there was no church in the Old
Testament, Acts 7:38 confirms just the opposite. Ephesians 3:3-5
2 - The Church or Body of Christ is not Judaism. Though the church
of the New covenant is born out of the church in the old covenant, the church
of the Lord Jesus Christ is made of up Jew and Gentile, bond and free, all
drinking together into one Spirit according to 1 Corinthians 12:13. The church
today is not the revival of the old Jewish sacrificial system, nor is it a
restoring of the old Aaronic order. {The book of Hebrews explains clearly the
position of the church today}
3 - The Church or Body of Christ is not a Denomination.
Denominationalism is not a part of the church.
Denominationalism requires a process of naming with a human head for its
leadership: and a numerical calculation to determine its strength.
Denominations is simply a sect elected by the people {democratic}, a hierarchy
{Bureaucratic}, or by a few selected individuals… {Oligarchies}…Carnality is
the real reason why we have thousands of divisions in the church world. 1
Corinthians 3:1-6. Therefore, to be named as Baptist, Methodist, Charismatic,
Dogmatic, or Schismatic is not the body of Christ. Being Old Line, Mainline, or
Out of Line too, is not the church or body of Christ. And while we are on the
subject, you can claim non-denominational status and still have the sectarian
order of denominationalism. This is what apostles now call non-denominational
denominations. It possesses the “ism” which divides the body. 1 Corinthians
1:10
4 - The Church or the Body of Christ is not a physical building
structure. The church in the New Testament is spoken of metaphorically as a
people, and never a building. To assume the church to be a building is reading
into scripture something that does not exist. In Acts 19:37, the Greek word for
churches is actually the word “Temple.” In truth, a temple, sanctuary, or
physical tabernacle is the meeting place of the Ekklesia, the called-out ones.
But again, the church of the Lord Jesus Christ is not a physical building. When
people asks “Where is your church, or
what size is your church, “ they have little to no revelation of what the
church really is. In some cases when refusing to be referred to as
denominational, but instead as a member of the body of Christ, believer’s world
over considers this as not being an actual part of the church at all.
27
Along
with the above listings much more could be added concerning what the Church or
Body of Christ is not. With this in mind, let’s take a closer look at what the
Church or the Body of Christ is.
What the Church or the Body of
Christ is…
1 - The church or the Body of Christ is the Ekklesia, the called-out
people of God. By review of this word, “ek” denotes “out of” {as in exit} and
“Klesis” refers to a “calling.” When defining the Greek word calling or
“kaleo,” we see it is akin to the Hebrew counterpart “kahal” or “assembly.” In
the New Covenant, a calling is a vocation {Ephesians 4:1}, a high calling
{Philippians 3:14}, holy calling {2 Timothy 1:9}, and a heavenly calling
{Hebrews 3:1}. The Calling of God is his expressed invitation. Therefore, all
believers are called, and have a calling in God. Col. 4:17
When Israel was called together out of their tents or homes to the door
of the Tabernacle of the Congregation that was the church, the assembly, and
the call-out ones. They did not assemble because they merely saw one another
doing so. They assembled together because that was their calling. Every time we
assemble together to the place of the Lord’s choosing, the place where the
Lord’s name is, that is Kahal-Jehovah, the called out ones of the Lord.
Therefore, kahal is a congregation or assembly, and Ekklesia is an assembly,
congregation, community, and meeting. In principle, they are the same. For
consider this, that the calling out to assemble is not restricted to so-called
church buildings, temples, and synagogues alone. But the calling out or
assembly can be anywhere, at home, on the farm, and in the corporate business
world. Kaleo and Kahal is anywhere when two or three are gathered together in
the name of the Lord. Matthew 18:20
2 - The Church or the Body of Christ is God’s eternal purpose. According to
Acts 15:18, “Known unto God are all his
works from the beginning of the world.” God’s eternal purpose is centered
in Christ and his church. The church or Body of Christ is making manifest what
God has been doing in eternity from the beginning. For Romans 16:25-26, “Now to him that is of power to establish
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. But now
is MADE MANIFEST…
3 - The Church or the Body of Christ is ONE NEW MAN. Such scriptures
as Ephesians 2:15-16 confirms this, which reads ”Having abolished in his flesh the
enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in
himself of twain {two} one new man, so making peace. And that he might
reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity
{hostility} thereby:”
4 - The Church or the Body of Christ is Christ the body. To say “Christ
the body” would disturb the natural order of things in some religious camps.
Perhaps not to New Age Philosophers, but the truth remains, whatever is a part
of the life and nature of Jesus Christ is the same with the glorious body of
Christ. His breath is our breath. His bone is our bone. His life is our life.
This is confirmed again in scriptures such as Ephesians 1:23. For we are the
fullness of him that fills us all in all. Everything in the pulsating life and
nature of Christ’s headship is in the church. No, not church from the viewpoint
of Christendom, but the living body of Christ. Ephesians 3:19; 5:30
5 – The Church or the Body of Christ is ONE BODY, and MANY MEMBERS. For as the body is one, and has many members
{limbs and ligaments}, and all the members of that one body being many, are one
body in Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:12 {Read also verse 13 – via, the whole
chapter} The body of Christ is a realm of believers that has various
functions and diversities of grace abounding therein. It is a body full of ministries {men
as trees}…Mk. 8:24
28
Let’s format our discussion a bit differently…
Other Names and Descriptions for
the Church or Body of Christ
{Local and Universal}
A – The Church or the Body of Christ is the Household of God. Ephesians
2:19
Hebrews 3:3-6{In Galatians 6:10 it is the Household of Faith}
B – The Church or the Body of Christ is Zion the City of God. Hebrews
12:22
C – The Church or the Body of Christ is the True Tabernacle. Hebrews
8:2
D – The Church or the Body of Christ is the Holy City in Perfection and
Glory.
Revelation chapters 21-22 {Get the book on the New Jerusalem}
E – The Church or the Body of Christ is God’s building {Hebrews 11:10}
1st Corinthians 3:9 {God’s Building, Husbandry or tillage}:
John15, Isaiah 5
F – The Church or the Body of Christ is the Pillar and Ground of Truth.
1 Timothy 3:15 {Also here as the house of God}: Isaiah 57:15
G – The Church or the Body of Christ is as Lively Stones: built up into
a spiritual house,
Holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices. 1st Peter
2:5: Isaiah 2:1-5
H – The Church or the Body of Christ is a Chosen Generation {Chosen
Genes, Genetics}
Royal priesthood {kingdom of
priests}, a Holy nation, and a Peculiar {purchased} people.
1st Peter 2:9 – Read also Exodus 19:5-6; Revelation 1:5-6;
5:10 {Kings and Priests}
I – The Church or the Body of Christ is ONE FOLD with One Shepherd.
John 10:16
J – The Church or the Body of Christ is the Israel of God. Galatians
6:16;
Romans 2:28-29; Philippians 3:3; {Read Romans 9-11 for an open
discussion}
K – The Church or the Body of Christ is the Glorious Church. Eph. 5:27
L – The Church or the Body of Christ is the Bride of Christ. Ephesians
5:23-32;
Revelation 21:9; 22:17 {Spirit and the Bride say come}, Isaiah 54
M – The Church or the Body of Christ is the Sons of God. Romans 8:19-27
N – The Church or the Body of Christ is the Seed of Abraham. Galatians
3:16, 29
O – The Church or the Body of Christ is the Holy Temple of God.
Ephesians 2:21
P – The Church or the Body of Christ is the Army of God. Ephesians
6:10-18: Ex. 13
Q – The Church or the Body of Christ is a City set on the Hill {Zion},
which cannot
be hid. It is the Light of the World. Matthew 5:14-15
29
R – The Church or the Body of Christ is the Church of the Firstborn.
Hebrews 12:22-24; Colossians 1:17, 18 {Read also the book of Numbers}
S – The Church or the Body of Christ is God’s heritage. 1 Peter 5:3:
Joel 3:2
T – The Church or the Body of Christ is the Church of God. 1
Corinthians 10:32
U – The Church or the Body of Christ is acknowledged in the words of
Jesus as MY {His} CHURCH. Matthew 16:18. He is the builder of it. {Ephesians
4:11: 1 Corinthians 3:9} Therefore, Christendom, ecumenical folly,
denominationalism, material buildings, or some nationalistic cause to prefer
your rich cultural heritage above others is not the Church or the Body of
Christ.
V – The Church or the Body of Christ is the Instrumentation of the
Kingdom. Matthew 16:19
{Read Daniel 7:22, and verse 27 – The Saints Possesses the Kingdom}
W – The Church or the Body of Christ is Christ the Vine, and we the
Branches. John 15:1-8
Isaiah 11:1: Zechariah 3:8 – The Branch of the Lord – compare
X – The Church or the Body of Christ is the Church of the Living God.
1Timothy 3:15
Y – The Church or the Body of Christ is local and visible. Matthew
18:15-20
Z – The Church or the Body of Christ is universal and invisible.
Matthew 16:18
…………………………………………………..
With the above names and descriptions given, I am certain you were
rewarded with confirming truth what the Church or the Body of Christ is. For
the purpose in listing them is to help the saints value the diversified
expressions of what the church is, and to approach the concept of church far
above the one-dimensional view that many sincere saints still hold to today.
Another purpose for which we listed the names and descriptions of the
Body of Christ is that God’s eternal purpose is centered in Christ the Head and
Christ the body. Since this is the truth of the matter, Christ’s headship is
never to be substituted for a demagogue or inferior revelation. For if Christ
is replaced in the throne-room of our hearts with Anti-Christ {instead of or against Christ}, then our
actions will reveal the object of our affection. For our hearts is where our
treasure is, and in essence, we become what we worship. The same is true of
Matthew 16:13-17, when Jesus asked “Whom do men say that I am, and whom do you
say that I am?” For the way you perceive Christ is the way you will build your
ministry. If Christ is nothing more to you than a thrill ride for a regular
church service, then you will have a Fun-dation, and not a strong foundation.
If Christ is reminiscent to your favorite politician than your ministry
will be marked by political maneuvering and chess-play. If Christ has become
just another religious icon to you, then your ministry is placed in the same
category as the religious systems of our day. For these systems may include the
Bahai faith, Unity School of Christianity, Jehovah’s Witness, or KKK. For in
each of these, they preach another Jesus, someone foreign to the voice and mind
of the Lord.
Therefore, by examining scriptural truth, we see Christ the Head, and
Christ the Body.
30
If it is not the BODY of CHRIST, it is ANTICHRIST
His Blood
For the life of the flesh
is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an
atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that makes an atonement for the
soul. Lev. 17:11
Take heed therefore unto
yourselves, and to all the flock, over which, the Holy Ghost has made you
overseers {episkopos}, to feed {poimaino – to tend as a shepherd} the church of
God, which he has purchased with his own blood. Acts 20:28
It is by the redemptive blood of the Lord Jesus Christ that one becomes
part of his corporate body. The following references confirms the quality and
life of the blood…
…For this is the blood of
the New Testament…Matthew 26:28; Mark 14:24; Luke 22:20
…Eat my flesh, drink my
blood {metaphor of partaking and participation} John 6:53-56
…Through faith in his
blood…Romans 3:25…Justified by his blood…Romans 5:9
…The cup of blessing…the
communion of the blood of Christ…1 Corinthians 10:16
…We have redemption through
his blood…Ephesians 1:7…Colossians 1:14
But now in Christ…are made
nigh by the blood of Christ…Ephesians 2:13
…Peace through the blood of
his cross…to reconcile all things unto himself…Col. 1:20
…The blood of Christ…purges
our conscience from dead works…Hebrews 9:14
…For without the shedding of
blood there is no remission…Hebrews 9:22
…Having boldness to enter
into the holiest by the blood of Jesus…Hebrews 10:19
…Washed us from our sins in
his own blood…made us kings and priests…Rev. 1:5-6
If you are a part of some religious body that dishonors the blood of
Christ, it is not the body of Christ. If you are a part of a church refusing to
uphold the redemptive life of the blood of Christ, it is not a part of the body
of Christ. If you are in any sect or system of belief that attempts to
circumvent the necessity of the blood of Jesus Christ, that religious order is Antichrist.
In present truth terms, antichrist is instead of, and on a personal
note, antichrist is a mindset, or the man of sin in the temple {naos}.
Dispensational super escape artists adhere to the belief of some powerful
political world leader from the Middle East. Such line of reason is ludicrous,
seeing they interpret the scriptures from a literal text. Since the scriptures
defines the holy scriptures we clearly see that the antichrist is mentioned
specifically in John’s epistles. In this there is no record of a world leader
and dictator of the end times. In 1 John 2:18-19, John alludes to antichrist as
they {plural}. Antichrists were found as those having left the body of Christ. Antichrists
{The plural form} is seen as anyone that has left the faith, refusing
to continue with believers of
The FAITH {Ephesians 4:13}. Preceding the very mention of antichrists,
John writes about the world system and the three points thereof. Here, we can
clearly see that the nature of antichrist is not of the body {of Christ}, but
of this world. For antichrist {s} is earthly, sensual, and devilish. Antichrist
is also characterized as the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the
pride of life.
In verse 22 of 1st John, anyone that denies the Father and
the Son is antichrist. In these verses alone, the antichrist {instead of
Christ} is found in vast sectors of the church. It is something that must be
purged from the church. It is not of the body, for it denies the Father and
Son, and believes not the truth. In another sense, antichrist is
anti-anointing, and anti-anointed one.
31
It is instead of or against the anointed one, and the anointing upon
the anointed one. It will even guise as Christ, like wolves in sheep’s
clothing.
Now, let’s list the scriptures from John’s epistles that reveals the
antichrist…
Little children, it is the
last time: as you have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there
many antichrists: whereby we know that it is the last time. They went out from
us, but they were not of us: for if they had been of us, they would no doubt
have continued with us…1 John 2:18-19
Who is a liar, but he that
denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist that denies the Father and
the Son. 1 John 2:22 {The entire epistles of John is a good resource for
discussion}
And every spirit that
confesses not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh {John 1:14} is not of God:
and this is that spirit of antichrist,
whereof you have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the
world. 1 John 4:3 {antichrist =s deception, the lie, & the spirit of error}
For many deceivers are
entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh.
This is a deceiver and an antichrist. 2nd John verse 7
From the above passages, antichrist can be defined in the following
ways…
1 – a spirit, the spirit of this age: atheism, humanism, world, flesh,
devil…1 John. 2:15-17: 4:3
2 – a spirit of error, a lying spirit, opposing truth, foundation for
cults, too}…1 John 4:1-6
3 – a mindset which attempts to exalt itself in one’s heart…2 Chron.
26; Is. 6:1; 2 Thess. 2:2-12
4 – anyone that denies the faith, or departs from the faith…1 Timothy
4:1; Matthew 22:29
5 – sectarianism, denominationalism, ecumenicalism, anything that’s not
a part of Christ’s body
6 – in some present truth camps, antichrist is seen as the flesh or
carnal nature…Romans 8:6-9
His Spirit and Breath
But you are not in the
flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if
any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. Romans 8:9
That which is born of the
flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. John 3:6
And the spirit of the Lord
shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of
counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord. Isaiah
11:2
God is a Spirit, and they
that worship the Father must worship him in Spirit and in truth. Jn. 4:24
The Church or the Body of Christ is filled with the Spirit of God. Yes,
that may sound like a broad statement to some, but the truth is, Christ’s body
is a spiritual body, born, filled, and led by the Spirit. The word that
Christ’s ministers preach and teach is Spirit and life. For the church that
Christ has built has every vital breath and life of the Father. The Pnuema and
Ruach of the Father is in Christ’s church. The very heartbeat of God is in the
Church of the Lord Jesus Christ.
So, let’s ask the question, “What church or body are you a part of?”
For if it’s the Lord’s body, everything in and of our risen Lord will pulsate
that life-giving nature throughout his body.
32
The truth of the matter is, everything that is named the church of the
Lord Jesus Christ is not. In many camps or religious systems, there are
practices, which oppose Christ’s shed blood, his bodily resurrection, his present
position as Lord, and the very purpose for which he came to earth. Yes beloved,
many may shout the name of the Lord, but the name of the Lord is not there. For
his name is his nature, and to know him by name is to know him by nature.
Therefore, everything that is legislated or endorsed by religionists is not the
body of our Lord Jesus Christ.
O, I know it hurts when the Lord sends us to slay your dear and
precious sacred cows. I know the agony you’re going through when everything
inside your flesh fights to stay alive. But the Spirit of the Living God is
calling forth a people to slay these sacred cows in a language much like this,
“RISE,
KILL, and EAT!” {Acts 10:13}…
Wisdom has built her house,
she has hewn {cut} out her seven pillars. {7 spirits of God: Is. 11:2}
She has killed her beasts;
she has mingled her wine; she has also furnished her table. She has sent forth
her maidens: she cries upon the highest places of the city, Who so is simple,
let him turn in here: as for him that want understanding, she says to him,
Come, eat of my bread, and drink of the wine, which I have mingled. Forsake the
foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding. Proverbs 9:1-6 {Compare
with Revelation 19:17-18}
Reiterating our point earlier mentioned, Christ’s body, possess his
substance and pure nature. If we honestly think that church as usual is going
to suffice for the radiant life that the Father is willing to reveal through
us, then we are a people sincere, but sincerely deceived. For true organization
proceeds out of HIS LIFE. The ministry of the Spirit is in the presence, glory,
and cloud of the Lord. Out of its unfolding midst lies a ministry that defines
the mood of the Spirit. In this realm of the Father’s glory, we live, move, and
have our being. Acts 17:28; Ezekiel 1:4-5
For the word confirms that Jesus Christ will return in the coming of
the clouds. For Christ went up into a cloud, as his glory is revealed again in
many clouds {the saints}. The cloud speaks of the glory and presence of the
Lord. The nature of a cloud is to empty itself out. Within the clouds is the
water of the Spirit of life, God’s manifest presence. From the presence of the
Lord in the Garden of Eden, the cloud of the Father’s glory over the Tabernacle
of the Congregation, the glory cloud of Solomon’s Temple, to the saints
becoming clouds or dispensers of his glory, the Spirit of God is moving in the
cloud. For the unfolding of his manifest presence is among us.
That is why Theresa and me have been very careful not to tag, title,
and license everything as Christ’s body, for it is not. We would rather see a
few hundred people among us enter into the unlimited glory of the Lord than to
witness thousands wanting only to be amused, entertained, teased, and
tantalized. Though we have the heart of the Father to invade and penetrate the
various worldly systems for kingdom advancement, we will not play church! We
will not have church or merely go to church. But our commission is to
recognize, raise, and release A-1 Champions in the character of Christ, and the
demonstration of the Spirit. In pioneering a new threshold, our desire is “To
boldly go where no carnal mind has ever gone before!”
We have briefly established in part the present truth that the Body of
Christ is full of the same life that Christ is. So, will you continue to remain
steeped in the tradition {666} and trade of men, or will you step out into new
territory in the Spirit to declare the glory of the latter house? For the truth
is, we will never sever the headship of Christ from his body. We will no longer
call Christ the head one thing, and Christ the body another. For again, if it
is not a part of the life and nature of Jesus Christ, it is not the body of
Christ. If it is not Christ, then it is antichrist! Matthew 23
33
His Flesh
And I will lay sinews upon
you, and will bring up flesh upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath
in you, and you shall live; and you shall know that I am the Lord. Ezekiel 37:6
Then Jesus said unto them,
Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except you eat the flesh of the Son of man, and
drink his blood, you have no life {ZOE} in you. Who so eat my flesh, and drink
my blood, has eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. John
6:53-54; Hosea 6:2
For we are members of HIS
BODY, of his flesh, and of his bones. Ephesians 5:30
The church or the body of Christ is filled with rich composites and DNA
of the Headship of Christ. The blood type is the same with us as Jesus Christ.
For our body is being fashioned unto his glorious body. We are being changed
from glory to glory, from conception to perfection, from the cross to the
throne of God, progressive yet instant, all at the same time. 1 Cor. 15:50-57
2 Corinthians 5:1-8; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; 2 Corinthians 3:18
As we move into a new dimension and sphere of Christ-in-you, {the inner
workings of Christ}, we elevate our level of consciousness to new abounding
heights of his glory. Colossians 1:27…We move pass being a Christian
{Christ-like} to becoming Christ-life. The enmity or hostility of the flesh and
all of its carnal commandments no longer becomes our focus. Instead, we take on
a new substance of Christ to walk out his flowing life. We move from sin to SON!
By eating the flesh of Christ’s body, we take on a whole new dietary
modification. Our intake is now becoming Christ, the Lamb of God slain before
the foundation of the world. This same Lamb is symbolized in Exodus 12, the
Lamb for a man’s house. This Lamb was to be eaten completely by the inhabitants
of each house, for this was the beginning of the Passover. With the blood upon
the upper door-post, and the two-side post, death had no entry there. For the
people had passed from death to live. Of course you may want to see the motion
picture The Ten Commandments starring Charleston Heston. For some reason our
entire family watches it once a year around Passover or Resurrection Sunday.
Notice I never mentioned a word about Easter. {Ashtoreth}
Now, the flesh of the Lamb was eaten in three main parts. They parts
were, the head of the Lamb, the Purtenance {or center} of the Lamb, and the
legs of the Lamb. This three-fold aspect reveals,
A – The Mind of Christ {Head of the Lamb} Philippians 2:5-9
B – The Motives of Christ {Center, Stomach} 1 Corinthians 13
C – The Mobility of Christ {Legs of the Lamb} Galatians 5:16, 25
Now the real key to this good eating is laid out in Exodus 12. For the
Lord gave specific command of the kind of Lamb each household was to eat. It
was to be without blemish, a male of the first year, taken from among sheep or
goats. It was to be kept until the fourteenth day {after the tenth day of the
same month} as the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel would kill it
in the evening. They were to take the blood from the Lamb and apply it
accordingly on their doors, and were to eat the flesh of the Lamb during the
night. It was to be roasted with fire, with unleavened bread and bitter herbs.
“I’ve
grown to enjoy eating Asparagus and drinking Wheatgrass [tell the truth, Tim]
juice, too! I don’t know why I’m sharing this with you, but O well!”
34
The rest of the Exodus 12 you can read in your devotional time.
Now, the above principles reveal the flesh of the Lamb, which is
Christ, the Lamb of God. If we eat and partake of him, we become one in his
life, death, burial, and resurrection. Like the Israelites, we pass over from
death to life. Therefore, make it a regular meal with THE LAMB. Try some
unleavened bread {no Pharisees here} and some bitter herbs, too. {O taste and
see…}
Remember…
Mind of Christ – Head of the
Lamb – Philippians 2:5 {1 Corinthians 2:16}
Motives of Christ – Center
of the Lamb - Philippians 2:6-8 {the Kenosis of Christ}
Mobility of Christ – Legs of
the Lamb – Philippians 2:12-13 {Walk it out beloved}
Corporate Life, continued…
Now that we have established what the Church or the Body of Christ is
{and is not}, we shall move further into a look at the corporate workings of
the body. Here, we want to examine briefly that the body of Christ is not only
filled with Christ’s life-giving and life-changing nature, but ministries of
the same. These ministries {men as trees, walking – Mark 8} shall be classified
for our discussion in three main categories. They are the Ascension Ministries,
the Nine-fold Manifestations of the Spirit {Spiritual Gifts}, and the Ministry
of Helps. All of these precious ministries are recorded in 1st
Corinthians chapter twelve. These classifications or highlights are not
designed to restrict the corporate anointing to numbers like five or nine. But
the purpose of these is to help you to relate to the diversities of grace and
differences of administration. For the truth is, the Holy Spirit has more to
say concerning them, and we are to be open to receive it.
It is the glory of God to conceal a
thing: but the honor of kings is to search out a matter. Proverbs 25:2
1 Corinthians 12th chapter, the
church in a nutshell…
Now there are diversities of
gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but
the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God,
which works all in all. 1 Corinthians 12:4-6
Now, let’s look at the above scripture in this light…
…Diversities of Gifts {Holy
Spirit – Spiritual Gifts and Manifestations – verses 7-11}
…Differences of
Administrations {Christ – The Ascension Ministries – Ephesians 4:11-13}
…Diversities of Operations
{God – Gifts and Callings of God – Helps -Romans 12:4-8}
In the Body of
Christ there is basically three main sectors of divine gifting. This synopsis
is not intended to draw division among the saints. Rather, to help us to become
distinctly aware of the clusters these gifts and ministries are found. For as
vast as the Body of Christ is, each of these clusters of grace is given to the
saints, and not alone to the so-called clergy. And beloved, that word clergy is
such an inappropriate word to use when describing ministries. For the
clergy-laity spirit is nothing more than the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes,
which means “seizing power over the laity. This is simply a priest-craft as
oppose to the priesthood of all believers. Revelation 2:15
35
The Nicolaitanes spirit robs the saints from the corporate voice of the
Lord, and places all the importance on top, meaning the top dog. Therefore, we
need to think corporate, moving from individualism to corporate life. For the
oil on Aaron’s beard must become oil from the beard.
Note below our observations of the three main clusters of gifts and
ministries…
1 – The Gifts of the Spirit: These manifestations of grace are not the
government of the church. Sad to say {No, glad to say} dear Pentecostals and
Charismatics, the gifts of the Spirit are not to be the sole emphasis for
corporate gatherings. In divine order, the manifestation of the gifts of the
Spirit are to be submitted to {A} – The Word of God, {B} and Valid oversight,
namely Ephesians 4:11. For the gifts of the Spirit are to always testify of
Christ, and give glory to the Lord.
Though these gifts edify one another, they are not to be the only means
for having a great church service. For the building code in the corporate body
is the ascension ministries of Ephesians 4:11-16. For there is no such thing as
a Spirit-centered church, but there sure is such a thing as a Christ Centered,
Spirit-led, and God glorified church. For again, Christ sent the other
Comforter, which is the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit never speaks of himself,
but always point upward to the Christ. So, if your spiritual gifts are drawing
attention to you, then it is not edifying the body. In the words of Paul, let
everything be done decently and in order, and, to the use of edifying the body.
1 Corinthians 14:40 {It’s getting hot in here! I hope we didn’t lose anyone
with this.}
Take no offence here. Theresa and me operate in the manifestation of
the spiritual gifts. In some meetings, the Lord will use either of us largely
in personal ministry. These bestowing gifts of grace are for the body, and will
edify the saints. Therefore, let’s put things in perspective here. The gifts of
the Spirit are not the government of the church. Neither is the deacon board.
2 – The Ascension Ministries: Ephesians 4:11-13 and 1st
Corinthians 12:28 speaks of the ascension ministries of the body of Christ.
When comparing 1st Corinthians 12:28 with that of Ephesians 4:11-12,
we see a slightly different rendering. For one thing, Ephesians 4:11 relates to
the analogy of the hand as each ascension ministry correlates to a finger of
the hand. Note below:
Apostle – Thumb – reaches all of the fingers of the
hand
Prophet – Forefinger {pointing finger that gives
direction}
Evangelist {Middle Finger, longest on the hand –
outreach}
Pastor {Ring finger, implies covenant, marriage, and
union}
Teacher {Baby finger, the closest to the turning of
the page}
When we turn to 1st Corinthians 12:28, we see the original
divine pattern of the church…
And God has set some in the
church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that
miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.
{8-fold}
In this pattern, the teacher is # 3 in divine order. Following the
teacher is miracles, for signs follow the word. And beloved, most major
restoration and reformation movements began with teaching. That which followed
was miracles, healings, signs, and wonders. For Jesus confirms in Mark 16:17
that these signs shall follow them that believe. Therefore, we need the
ascension ministry of teacher restored in its rightful place as a prelude to
the miraculous. Now I am aware that the presence of the Lord can do just the
opposite, for he has in our assemblies as well. But, what I am after here is
for saints to begin appreciating the teacher in a new and living way.
36
3 – The Ministry of Helps: The Helps Ministry is simply aid or
assistance in the corporate body. It can range from showers of mercy {greeters}
at the front door of the sanctuary, to administrative help in making
arrangements for leaders to travel. In either case, as well as review of the
broad and specific aspects of helps ministry, the concept of helps is as
supernaturally ordained in the corporate anointing as the apostle and prophet.
Though each local assembly decides best the kind of help needed, the ministry of aid and support finds its
origin in the mind of God. For a local assembly without the helps ministry can
potentially become a hindered ministry.
To further support this principle, many saints today feel that Jesus
was the one that fed the 5000 plus. In all actuality he did not. He simply
blessed the fishes and the loaves, as his disciples went about to feed them. Why,
had Jesus fed the multitudes himself, he would have become drained to the core
like so many burnt out frustrated pastors today, doing everything all by their
lonesome.
Well, did you get that? Good! We’re here to edify, not petrify.
Now, let’s
look at the natures and manifestations of God in relation to the divine gifting
of the church…
According to John 3:16, God so loved the world that he gave
his only begotten son…
According to John 15:26, Jesus sends the Comforter who
proceeds from the Father…
According to John 14:26, the Holy Spirit brings to
remembrance all concerning Christ
1 – God gives salvation through his Son. The Father gives us the name
of the Son. The Son gives us the new birth. The Son gives us the Holy Spirit.
The Son also gives us the ascension ministries of Ephesians 4:11-12. Without a
proper foundation of what the Father has given us through the Son, we will
potentially operate our ministries from limited experiences, never appreciating
the Son who has given us the Comforter or the Holy Ghost in the first place.
2 – The Son gives his life and shed blood for the remission of sin. The
blood redeems us from death to life. The Son gives us the ascension ministries
of apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, and teacher. The ascension ministry is
Christ Multiplied. It is the Government of the Church. Without divine
government, there would be anarchy, chaos, and confusion. 1 Corinthians 14:33…
The Son gives us the Holy Ghost Comforter. The Comforter glorifies
Christ.
3 -The Holy Spirit is evident
at the new birth and takes the blood of Christ and the word to initiate the new
birth through cleansing the unbeliever. The Holy Spirit manifests the Baptism
of the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in other tongues. The Holy
Spirit manifests the Fruit of the Spirit in the life of the saints. The Holy
Spirit manifests the Gifts of the Spirit through the saints. The Holy Spirit
brings to light all that Christ has spoken. The Holy Spirit causes a divine
pregnancy of the Spirit to manifest in the corporate church. This pregnancy of
the Spirit correlates to the overshadowing of Mary and the conception of Jesus
Christ. Therefore, the Holy Spirit, which is the Spirit of Christ, is now
bringing forth a Manchild Ministry of Revelation the 12th chapter.
It is the overcomer company, the manifestation of the sons of God. Romans 8:19
God in fullness is functioning in the corporate body of Christ. This is
likened to Ezekiel’s wheel, as there is an interlocking mechanism of each. The
manifestations of God are significantly an important part of the development of
the body. From Yahweh, Yeshua, the Ekklesia, to the saints possessing the
kingdom, Elohim is at work in the body of Christ. The feminine and the
masculine of the Elohim are evident in the body of Christ. Though there is
neither male nor female in Christ, there are male and female dimensions of the
Spirit. For the church is the son and the bride.
37
It is the Lion and the Lamb, the word and the Spirit. Within the church
are dimensions of grace and glory for fatherhood and brideship, or apostle and
prophet. Therefore, if you do not discern the dimension of the Elohim, you can
practice one expression of grace at the exclusion of others. You could worship
the concept of worship, and refuse the authority of the word, producing a
homosexual or lesbian dimension of ministry. The same is true when all you want
to hear is the meat of the word, at the exclusion of intimate communion through
worship. For Proverbs 11:1 says that a
false balance is abomination to the Lord; but a just weight is his
delight.
Corporate
Life-workings and manifestations of God, continued…
As we take a closer look at the three main categories of divine
gifting, I would like you to consider them in context with the manifestations
of God earlier mentioned. For God is manifesting himself in his people,
bringing to life the controversial principle of predestination. Predestination
is pre-destiny, something in your life foreknown by the Father. Acts 15:18
In the mind of God, all believers are purposed and called. From the
Father’s point of view all saints are in the ministry, though all are not
functioning in ascension and headship ministry. Why? For the body of Christ is
a ministry. Being called unto the Lord is a ministry. For the church is not
defined alone by being called out of something, but to whom we are called unto.
Now consider this, our first ministry is unto God. We were created for
his pleasure and delight. In this is found the principle of Eden, for the
definition is the same. Man is called to walk in the pleasure and delight of
the Elohim. For our purpose, passion, and priority is the kingdom of God, his
will, and his ways. We are made for him, and not for ourselves. Revelation
4:11. As we draw near to the Father to minister unto him, we allow his
preceding word to minister unto us. From here, we can better minister one to
another. Why? For the body of Christ is a kingdom of priests. It is ministry
unto God, ministry one to another, and ministry to creation. Romans 8:19-27
God
{1 Corinthians 12:18, 28}
For the gifts and callings
of God are without repentance. Romans 11:29 {KJV}
For the gifts and call
of God are irrevocable. {RSV}
For God’s gifts and
his call are irrevocable – He never withdraws them once they are given,
and He does not change His mind about those to whom He gives His grace or to
whom He sends His call. {AMP}
For no change of purpose can
annul God’s gifts and call. {CON}
For God never regrets his gifts
or his call. {TCNT}
Take note, that God is the source for all gifts and callings in the
body of Christ. All are ascribed to him through his Son for a relevant and
distinct purpose. Every born-again believer not only is called, but also has a particular,
specific, and tailor-made calling in God. That is why it is important to move
from a general and vague commitment to a specific one. Otherwise it may be
viewed as a false one. For God is not the author of confusion. Every believer
has a set place in the body as it pleases the Father. God is specific and
precise, even when we are called into the body.
38
When referring to gifts and callings, do not assume that we are
discussing pulpit politics, licensing of ministers, or a two to four-year
educational sweep. No!
What we are after here is the returning of each saint to his or her
true source and resource, which is the Lord, himself. Our desire here is to
encourage every heart to know him and make him known, and to allow the presence
of the Holy Spirit to speak to each heart concerning the grace of our Lord
Jesus Christ. For the Father gives good gifts, and sends packages of grace to
whosoever will. He is gracious to whom gracious, and shows mercy to whomsoever.
Ex. 33:19; Nehemiah. 9:31; Ps. 68:18; 86:15; 103:8; 145:8; 1 Peter 2:3;
Ephesians. 4:8: Matt. 7:7-11
Before we attempt to major on a gift, let’s return now to the source of
all true spiritual gifts. Let’s receive the giver of the gifts, and not the
gifts as an end to itself. {John 4:10; James 1:17}
Let’s not make the same mistake over and over again as many did in the
Charismatic renewal. True, many wonderful things happened in the church, but a
lot of us thought that the Charismatic emphasis was the last and most important
thing that had ever been accomplished in the church.
Next Scripture
2 Peter 1:10 says, “Give
diligence to make your calling and election sure…{KJV}
Other renditions are as follows…
…Take all the more
care…{BAS}
…Make all the greater
efforts…{GSPD}
…Do your best…{TCNT}
…Be all the more
earnest…{WEY}
…So be the more eager,
brothers…{MOF}
…Be the more zealous…{RSV}
- to -
…Make certain of your
calling and election…{WEY}
…Make God’s call and choice
of you certain…{GSPD}
…Put God’s calling and
Selection of you beyond all doubt…{TCNT}
The principle of calling confirms Jeremiah 1:5, as Jeremiah was known,
sanctified, and ordained by the Father before birth. The same with Romans 8:30
which confirms predestination, being foreknown in the mind of God. For here
Paul states that those whom the Father has predestinated are {A} Called {B} Justified
{C} and Glorified…before they were born. Those, whom the Father foreknew, he
predestinated to be conformed into the image of his Son. Romans 8:29…
39
The church, the Calling of God…
In the
New Testament, the church is first mentioned by Christ himself in Matthew
16:18-19 and 18:15-20. The church that Christ introduces to us is not some new
concept, but an extension of his purpose in the Old Testament. For God has
always called forth a people, a calling out of an assembly unto himself.
Whether it was Israel the Kahal-Jehovah {called out assembly unto the Lord –
Numbers 10:1-10; Acts 7:38}, or the Ekklesia of the New Covenant, the church is
a calling unto God. Ephesians 4:1; Hebrews 3:1
One of the benefits of being called unto the Lord is seen in Ephesians
2:5. Here, we are {A} quickened together with Christ, {B} raised up together
with Christ, {C} and seated together in heavenly places with Jesus Christ. This
experience coincides with our unity together as saints. For when we come
together at the appointed time, in the place of the Lord’s choosing, and in the
place where his name is, Ephesians. 2:5 then becomes a present reality. Matthew 18:20: Amos 3:3:
Deuteronomy. 12:5-7,
11, 12, 13, and 14
3 Important Witnesses or Confirmations
to your calling…
When you come to the realization that you are called of God, here are
some important principles to consider as you make your calling and election
sure…
1 – There is the Confirmation of the personal or inner witness of the
Holy Spirit within you.
The Spirit itself bears
witness {testifies jointly} with our spirit…Romans 8:16
{Psalms 91:1-2; 1st
Kings 19:11-12}
2 – There is the Confirmation of the Holy Scriptures to assist and aid
you in your walk. Keep in mind, that the Holy Spirit’s manifest presence is
essential to our understanding of the scriptures. For it is the Holy Spirit
that testifies of Christ, bringing all things to our remembrance, &
glorifying the Father. Meaning, true anointed study or diligent searching is
with both the Word and the Spirit. For it is the Spirit that quickens us, as
the flesh profits nothing. John 5:39-40: 6:63
Study to show yourself
approved unto God, a workman that need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing {or
rightly handling} the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15 {also, 2 Peter 1:19-21}
3 – There is the Confirmation or witness of the Spirit through a
plurality of Elders.
As they ministered to the
Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the
work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and
laid their hands on them, they sent them away. Acts 13:2-3 {also read verse 1}…
This is what I call the ATM – Apostolic Team Ministry, Antioch Team
Ministry, Acts Team Ministry. For team ministry is total ministry. Team
ministry is T.E.A.M. – Together, Everyone Accomplishes {or Achieves} More {or
Maturity}. This is the A-Team. 1 Corinthians 3:5-10
Romans 1:11: 1 Tim. 4:14: 2 Tim. 1:6-7; Proverbs 15:22; 20:18: Ex.
18:11-26: 2 Cor. 13:1
40
Colossians 4:17
Take
heed to the ministry, which you have received in the Lord, that you fulfill
it…{KJV}
God
ordained you to work, see that you don’t fail him...{PHI}
Attend
to the duty entrusted to you in the Lord’s service, and discharge it to the
full…{NEB}
God
called you into His service, Oh, do not fail him…{NOR}
See
that you fulfill the ministry, which you have received in the Lord…{RSV}
The Four
kinds of sight
With the understanding and functionality of your purpose and calling,
we would like to list the four kinds of sight in the body of Christ. These
principles here will help us to see that there is a realm of unlimited glory
that awaits us. For we must enter in, from the conditions and barriers of time,
to the portals of the eternal presence of the Lord of eternity. For the experiences
of the Holy Place before the Holy of Holies is time making contact with
eternity. God is bringing into manifestation some marvelous truth that is now
being revealed to us. Romans 16:25-26
Ephesians 1:17-18; 3:1-5; Deuteronomy 29:29; Isaiah 45:3; Psalms
91:1-2; Amos 3:7
1 – Out of Sight - This is a positive and
negative principle. It is something out of range, not in view, eyes that cannot
see. Matthew 13:13-17. In the negative it is seeing without perception. 1
Corinthians 2:9-10
2 – Sight - This speaks of the principle of
the outer court. However, 2 Corinthians 5:7 says that we walk by faith, and not
by sight. This is also the sensory realm of the flesh. Luke 17:20
3 – Foresight – This speaks of the principle
of the holy place. For in Hebrews 6:5, we have tasted the good word, and the
powers of the world to come. In the holy place we are defining what is going on
in the most holy place, for the holy place serves as the troubling of the soul,
the dividing asunder of soul and spirit. John 12:27; Hebrews 4:12; 1
Corinthians 15:45-48 {overstaying your time here produces mixture and duality}
4 – Insight – This speaks of the most holy
place {or holy of holies}. This realm is the Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation,
the understanding of the true nature of things. This realm will cause you to
soar from the manifest presence of the Lord to the eternal presence of the
Lord. For this realm is where the mercy seat is. It is the dimension of glory
that reveals the creative glory between the Cherubim. For the Cherubim are
above the mercy seat {or propitiation}. The Cherubim is a revelation of the
overcomer and the throne of God. It is the glory of the principle of two, which
are witness, covenant, agreement, and testimony. For these Cherubim are
positioned above the all-inclusive meanings of salvation. The mercy seat
reveals the throne and dominion of God, and His mercy, which endures forever.
But the Cherubim are above it, caught up unto God for a deeper dimension than
just getting saved. The Cherubim reveals the saints in communion and oneness of
His purpose. It is here that the glory of the Lord unfolds like the visions of
Ezekiel chapter one.
Once we get pass the major message of
salvation {sovereign grace Evangelical messages}, and the sin consciousness of
Pentecostalism, we can walk in the glory of the Lord above the mercy seat. We
can ride upon the high places of the earth and eat of the heritage of Jacob.
And beloved, this is a now word!
Isaiah 37:16 - God dwells between the
Cherubim {Also read Isaiah 57:15}
Isaiah 58:14 – We ride upon the high places
of the earth, eating the heritage of Jacob
Ezekiel 28:14 {compare with the Garden of
Eden – look for open discussion}
41
Christ:
1 Corinthians 12:27
Now you are the body of
Christ, and members in particular. 1 Cor. 12:27
But speaking the truth in
love, growing up unto him in all things,
which is the head, even
Christ. Ephesians 4:15
And not holding the Head
{seizing, withholding}, from which all the body by joints and bands, having
nourishment ministered, and knit together, increases with the increase of God.
Col. 2:19
And he gave some, apostles;
and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers. For
the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of
the body of Christ. Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the
knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the
stature of the fullness of Christ. Ephesians 4:11-13
Many saints are rather confused these days as much emphasis and demand
is placed on Ephesians 4:11-13. For many, the ascension ministry seems to be
the topic of discussion all of the time, as there is little appeal to being
involved in the ministry of helps. In many assemblies, they have taken the
ascension ministry and placed it out of context. Here, the idea is that either
you are walking in the glory of the five-fold ascension ministry, or not. And
what that does is create insecurity among the saints as they strive to be
something God has not called them into.
Performance! Performance! Performance!
America {USA} at large is full of it!
If we can simply get pass the notion that the only ministry potential
worth finding out about is
the ascension ministry, then we can better help the saints to fulfill
the vision potential in them by seeing the church as ministry, and not an
organizational cause. Though a cause can be a start for some, and in some
understanding a prelude to fulfilling your calling, God is after stability in
us by equipping the saints through his ascension ministries. Their ministry is
simply to perfect, equip, mature, and prepare us for the work of the ministry
{diako – running on errands, the character of serving before ruling}, and to
build up the body. Once this mission has taken place and the saints mature
through the headship of Christ multiplied by five, then a greater harvest is
expected, as John the revelator saw a number that no man could count. For the
planting of the seed of the kingdom through this five-fold look at Christ in
headship, produces a mightier seed crop that will cover the earth. This
universal seed crop is none other than the glorious saints.
So, the ascension ministry of Ephesians 4:11-13 produces the character
and demonstration of Christ. They reveal the purpose for what Christ and his
ministries were given for. They also deposit an anointing within the corporate
life of the body for the saints to operate in. For you don’t have to be an
apostle to pioneer fresh grace for kingdom advancement. You don’t have to be a
prophet to prophesy to the activation of purpose and potential. This is simply
the anointing of the corporate man, from the oil of Aaron’s beard to the rest
of the body. The ascension ministry imparts a measure of what they are given
for, and of Christ’s present position in the church.
Along those lines, the ascension ministry stirs the saints toward the
eternal purpose of God for DOMINION. Dominion is now seen through the ascension
ministries of Ephesians 4:11-13. Here, the ascension ministry recognizes our
purpose in the earth through the dominion mandate.
42
Moving beyond the borders of religious church comforts, the ascension
ministry becomes one in the global grace of God, his universal purpose. Here,
we are not merely perfecting the saints to work in some church setting, we are
now preparing them to advance the kingdom of God over planet earth. As stewards
{for God owns everything}, we return to the original mandated authority of what
the first man was given for. Better yet, a new level of authority in the earth.
For Daniel 7:22, 27 says…
Until the Ancient of Days
came, and judgment was given to the SAINTS of the most High; and the time came
that the saints possessed the KINGDOM. And the kingdom and dominion, and the
greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people
of the SAINTS of the most High: whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and
all dominions {powers} shall serve
And obey him. {Saints
movement – dominion throughout the earth as a kingdom of priests}
This is what the saints are here for. This is our allotted purpose,
with an electrifying destiny ahead of us. We are declaring the end from the
beginning, even with our very lives. For not only is the church pioneering a
fresh prophetic word for the destiny of planet earth but our lives are becoming
the living and manifesting word of the Lord. Why? For we are moving from a
church mentality to a kingdom mentality. That beloved, is how the kingdom is
advanced globally.
Note below how the ascension ministries correlate with the five-fold
charge of Adam…
Apostle Prophet
Evangelist Pastor Teacher
Fruitful Multiply Replenish Subdue Dominion
Build up Stir up Cheer up Stand up Grow up
Apostle: Fruitful, fertile, groundbreaking,
plantation, colonization, settlement, and pioneering grace…..
Prophet: Increase and abundance, rhema or
spoken word to activate the plantation of the apostle……
Evangelist: Carrying forth from one sphere
of influence to another, cross-pollination to other places….
Pastor-Shepherd: The local church where
shepherds rule well and watch over the souls of the sheep.
Teacher: Synergistic approach of the above,
culmination of all that the apostle-prophet has spoken…..
Notice the definitions from Webster’s of the
Five-fold charge for the 1st Great Commission
Fruitful Multiply
Replenish
Subdue
Dominion
Bear much fruit Cause to increase To make full Under subjection To rule
Fertile produce Increase in number Complete again Bring in subjection Authority
Prolific results Increase in amount
A
new supply
Conquer
Governed
Productive Increase in extent Replete, well-filled Overcome Territory
Profitable Increase in degree Plentifully supplied Persuasion, training ownership
John 15:16: Mt. 13 Is. 9:7: John 3:30 Isaiah 6:3: Eph. 1:23 Rom. 8:37: 1 Jn. 5:4 1 John 4:17
By defining the above commissioning aspects of the Dominion Mandate
from the original Hebrew, we find that the definitions are virtually the same.
That is why I chose the meanings from Webster’s Dictionary, to confirm the
Hebrew meanings of these very same words.
43
To stop here for a moment, let’s consider the significantly important
truth, that the ascension ministries of Ephesians 4:11-13 are territorial
spirits in the earth. For the original language of the term spiritual gifts
implies spirituals or spirits. As there is a reality to the spirit of worship,
the spirit of prayer, the spirit of praise, and the spirit of giving, there is
the spirit of the ascension ministries, which is not confined to the life or
functioning ministry thereof. All ministry, whether gifts, callings, purposes,
and destinies, possess a spiritual nature to them. In truth, the spirit of
wisdom and revelation gives insight into the true nature of a thing. That is
why a woman can walk in the spirit of apostleship or pastoral ministry. In the
nature of wisdom, there is a dimension of grace and glory that is not reserved
to gender. Therefore, the spirit of wisdom and revelation enlightens us to the
real deal about gifts and callings of God. If wisdom is the principal thing, and
wisdom builds the house, then this same wisdom is crying out in the streets and
the broad places, inviting whosoever will to come into the way of
understanding. Proverbs 1:21-33: 8:1-36
As the ascension ministries of Ephesians 4:11 minister to the seed of
the kingdom in you, it produces the spirit of Christ for what they have been
given for. So beloved, whether you are new in the faith, or strong in the
faith, the headship ministry of Christ is given to perfect you into His
measure, stature, and fullness. These ministries are designed with you in mind,
to raise you and release you into a new corporate dynamic for a bold new
corporate destiny.
For the truth is, there is a vast sector of the body of Christ that may
never walk in the administration and life of the ascension ministries. They may
never be acknowledged as apostles and prophets, but they can walk in a measure
of grace imparted to them by these ministries. So, rejoice, as there are vast
dimensions of grace in the corporate life of the body of Christ. And leaders
rejoice too, that your assemblies are coming into an upgrade of the Spirit for
corporate destiny. For your local church can now begin to enjoy the benefits of
being a corporate body, moving from any insecurities and gift suspicion of old,
to everyone functioning in their allotted purpose for divine destiny. Yes,
everyone, from the early years to the up in age, is given some distinct meaning
through Christ. What I’m asking you to do is to minister to their purpose and
destiny. Start recognizing the encouraging need to build the people up into new
levels of spiritual maturity. For one can be spiritual and not mature, or
mature in some things but not spiritual.
For in the body of Christ you have the
realm of the sophomore. The sophomore is simply the wise fool. They are wise to
believe there is more for their spiritual growth, and a fool to believe they
have arrived. Therefore, the sophomore realm is that people are masters in some
things, and students in another. That is why we have the 5-fold ascension
ministries, for they mature the saints!
The
Holy Spirit
1
Corinthians 12:4-11
For to one is given by the
spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit.
To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healings by the
same Spirit. To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to
another discerning of Spirit; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another
the interpretation of tongues. But all of these work that one and selfsame Spirit,
dividing to every man separately, as he will.
1 Corinthians 12:4-11
44
By
reviewing again 1 Corinthians 12:4-6, we find three interesting words in the
original Greek. These words describe the operation and administrations of the
three divine categories of endowment in the church. Again they are, the
ascension ministries of Ephesians 4:11-12, the manifestation or gifts of the
Spirit {chapters 12-14 of 1st Corinthians}, and the ministry of
helps recorded in verse 28 of 1st Corinthians. {Also, Romans 12:4-8}
Verse 4 - Diversities of
gifts {Charisma}, gifts of the Spirit. These are manifestations of grace.
Verse 5 – Differences of
administrations {Diakonia, service as a deacon} Ephesians 4:12
I liken this to the
principles of the ascension ministries equipping the saints for the work of a
deacon, even its root Greek word “Diako, to serve in menial tasks.” {Serving
before ruling}
Verse 6 – Diversities of
operations {Energema – and effect, working: from another Greek word which we
get the meaning “to be active, efficient, effectual {fervent}, be mighty in,
show forth, work {effectually in}, operative, powerful {energy}.”
In all of these, the Spirit of Christ enables us to be effective,
fervent, mighty, efficient, serving
{As a deacon, the character of Christ who came not to be served, but to
serve}: with the charismata of the Spirit through divine endowment. And
beloved, with all of these precious benefits of usage, the body of Christ ought
to be growing with quantum leaps and bounds. With all of this dunamis {dynamo,
dynamite, dynamic}, the church ought to be an explosive and combustible force
in the earth, penetrating all of the world’s social systems with the gospel of
the kingdom. Well beloved, it certainly ought to be anyway!
For when it comes to the ministry of the Holy Spirit, a lot can be said
for the makings of a complete course on Present Truth Pneumatology, the study
of the Holy Spirit.
As we prepare to end this chapter {in writing of course}, let’s look
briefly at the Ministry of the Holy Spirit in the life of the saints. Though we
could go into detail on the manifestation of the nine spiritual gifts, I prefer
not to. The reason is that we provide teaching and activation on these. Also,
this chapter is purposed to highlight the essence of these divine giftings in
the church, not to exhaust them. So, with this in mind, let us juice the juice
from the fruit and get the real stuff that will flow quickly into the blood
stream. Simply put, let’s get the spirit of the lesson concerning this all
important subject. For discernment must accompany apostolic impartation, too!
Here is some kingdom principles of the
endowments of grace through spiritual gifts…
1 – In 1st Corinthians chapters 12-14, we see an important
development of the understanding of spiritual gifts. Chapter 12 gives the
classification of the gifts including membership ministry of the body of
Christ. Chapter 13 gives the motivation of the gifts of the Spirit. And,
chapter 14 gives the demonstration or operation of the gifts of the Spirit. With
this we have…
A – Classification of spiritual gifts – 1st
Corinthians 12
B – Motivation of spiritual gifts {Love} – 1st
Corinthians 13
C – Operation and Demonstration of spiritual
gifts – 1st Corinthians 14
45
2 - Spiritual
Gifts
The three spiritual gifts of
Revelation or Knowing ministry is…
Word of Wisdom – Divine
endowment of insight into the divine will and purpose of God
1 Kings 3:16-28; John
4:16-19; Ephesians 1:17
Word of Knowledge – Divine
endowment of revelation of the will, mind, and purpose of others without the
natural apprehension and assistance of men {such as facts, privileged
information}
2 Kings 6:8-10; Acts 5:3-4;
Matthew 16:16
The Discerning of Spirits
{not suspicion or mental assent} – Divine endowment and insight into the realm
of the spirits {God, man, the enemy}. This manifestation of grace allows you to
discern the operation behind a thing, without any given devices or human
detection.
1 John 4:1-6; Luke 13:16;
Acts 13:9-10; 1 Timothy 4:1-3
The three spiritual gifts of
Inspiration or Speaking ministry is…
The Gift of Prophecy –
Divine endowment of utterance, a word given in your native tongue. For human
intellect, reason, or rationale does not induce this gift. At times, it is
corrective, predictive, and directive. Its simple form is to edify, exhort, and
comfort.
1 Corinthians 14th
chapter… {More intense in usage by mature prophets}
The diversity of Tongues –
Divine endowment enabling you to speak in another language not of your native
tongue. Strongly accompanied with the Interpretation of Tongues and Prophecy.
Mark 16:17; Isaiah 28:11; 1st
Corinthians 14th chapter
The interpretation of
Tongues – Divine endowment enabling you to interpret in your known tongue what
the Spirit is saying in the unknown tongues. 1st Corinthians 14th
chapter
Note: Devotional tongues are
distinct from the administration of the Gifts of Tongues. Devotional tongues
are 90% personal edification whereas Corporate Tongues is 90% corporate
edification.
In the
Corporate anointing there are three main uses of Tongues.
1-
The
Baptism of the Holy Ghost with evidence of speaking in other tongues…Acts 2:4;
19:1-6
This
includes devotional usage for personal edification on a regular basis. Jude 20
2
– The Gift of Tongues which, is for the corporate edification of the body. This
is usually accompanied with interpretation of tongues and the gift of prophecy.
1 Corinthians 14
3
– The Interpretation of Tongues:
As saints we must grow in
wisdom and maturity with the proper use of the gifts of the Spirit. For some saints
make the mistake of sabotaging the corporate anointing with devotional tongues.
This could happen in response to a song, a prayer, worship, or intercession.
However, each local assembly should develop some guidelines where needed,
helping others to see the bigger picture. For prolonged usage of devotional
tongues in the corporate gathering can potentially hinder the meeting if
there is no edification for the corporate body. {I call it Sloppy Agape}
46
The three spiritual gifts of
Demonstration or doing ministry is…
The Gift of Faith – This is
the divine endowment for special faith with the ability of God to believe for
the impossible. It is a faith beyond all doubt and fears, to speak and do the
impossible.
Romans 4:17; Mark 11:22-24;
{Get our teaching on Faith, a measure, fruit, and gift}
The Gifts of Healings – This
is the divine endowment of God’s power to heal all manner of sickness and
diseases without the support or aid of medical assistance. The discerning of
spirits works well with this manifestation of grace, too. Matthew 9:35; 10:1
Luke 9:1-2, 11
The Working of Miracles –
This is divine endowment of God’s ability to transcend and supercede the laws
of the natural. This is a divine intervention through the Spirit to do the
impossible. From creative miracles, signs and wonders, to the raising of the
dead, this is a valid ministry.
2 Kings chapter 4, Psalms
107, Mark 9:23; Hebrews 2:3-4; Exodus 7:10-14; John 14:12
3 – Spiritual gifts or divine endowments confirm the word. Mark 16:20;
Acts 8:4-8
4 – Spiritual gifts or divine endowments bear witness {give testimony}
both with signs, wonders, diverse miracles, and other gifts of the Spirit.
Hebrews 2:4
5 – Spiritual gifts or divine endowments are to be imparted into
believer to establish and to strengthen them. Romans 1:11; 1 Timothy 1:18; 4:14
6 – Spiritual gifts or divine endowments help us not to come behind in
any gift.
1st Corinthians 1:7. They help us to fully preach Christ.
Romans 15:18-19
7 – Spiritual gifts or divine endowments are given to the body and are
available to all saints. This is why Paul the apostle says, “Covet earnestly
the best or choice gift.” Why? For spiritual gifts have a way of complimenting
your purpose and calling. Special grace is given where needed in your life
including gifts of grace. 1 Corinthians 12:7; Ephesians 3:19; Romans 11:29
8 – Spiritual gifts or divine endowments works by the love of God. 1
Corinthians 13, Gal. 5:6
9 – Spiritual gifts or divine endowments can be received by faith. They
can also be stirred and activated by apostles and prophets through impartation
ministry. 2 Timothy 1:6-7
Hebrews 11:1, 6; Matthew 7:7-11; Romans 1:11; Mark 11:24
10 – Spiritual gifts or divine endowments are found in the Old
Testament. People did receive a measure of the Spirit upon them. Isaiah 28:11.
2 Kings 5, 1 Kings 19
11 – Spiritual gifts or divine endowments are an active part of the
local and universal body of Christ. They are not intended for bishops and
elders only, but for the whole body. Although mere theologies differ across the
board {bored}, theology simply talks about God, and fails to reveal him. Jesus
did not talk about the father, he came to reveal him. The church is not to talk
about Christ, but is to reveal him. For we know him, and are making him known.
John 7:38; 14:12
12 – Spiritual gifts or divine endowments have a distinct purpose in
their operation. Why don’t you take some time to discover again, their purpose
and usage in the corporate body of Christ,
and in your very own life. Thank you!
47
Beloved, we can clearly see that the church or body of Christ is full
of ministry opportunities.
There is so much to be done here, as we understand the diversities of
grace and administration, along with their operations. There is more than enough
to go around so-to-speak.
Word to Elders, Bishops, and other
leaders in the local assemblies of the world…
In all that was shared thus far, I’m sure many of you have generated a
lot of questions to ask. Certainly, many of you have comments you would like to
make as well.
In this book entitled “Corporate Destiny,” our goal is to help
encourage the church to broaden their horizons by seizing new territory through
the Spirit. For it is our hearts desire to see the body of Christ excelling
into new spheres, frequencies, and frontiers of the Spirit of grace.
You may not like my expression, orientation or relevant style of
delivery, and that’s okay.
But let truth be known the church at large needs reconfiguration of
limited mentalities to advance forward in the spirit of the apostello and
apostolos, to launch out into a bold new destiny.
For this to happen, we need to take a closer look at the way we
perceive the body of Christ, and all of its inner workings. We need to have our
thinking steered toward the kingdom, and not by preserving our comforts and
complacency for fear of what our assemblies and peers might say.
Not forgetting, we really need a revelation of the Lord Jesus Christ in
headship over his body, and to begin living out that life-giving nature in our
assemblies and homes. For there is something deep and profound going on that
requires our immediate attention. Deep calls unto deep.
In the past we may have boasted on the altar call ministry, or the
transportation service in picking up folk for corporate gatherings. Perhaps we
became rather proud at the way our corporate meetings were going. But you know
what, we have not always admitted the need to align ourselves to the present
dealings of the Holy Spirit. We may also have been reluctant to move into
flowing streams and fresh fires. And to think, some of us have entertained the
idea that church couldn’t get any better than this. But beloved, there’s more,
so much more!
Instead of having the church choir or worship team entering in, why
can’t the whole assembly enter in? Instead of believing for the altars to be
filled each week, why don’t we express the Father’s heart for the whole
assembly to be immersed in the manifest presence of the Lord?
So, why won’t we break these controlling powers of church as usual, and
start moving with the cloud into new portals of the eternal presence of the
Lord? For eternity is knocking at the door of time. God wants to invade our
systems and replenish us with himself, with all that he is.
What I am saying is, we need to make some serious adjustments in
preparation for the unlimited glory of the Lord to be revealed in us. We need
also to break away from stubborn traditions of men that love the idea of living
in the back woods, unable to see the forest because of the trees. It’s time to
think corporate, and loose the saints into a new sphere of activity. Let’s not
be afraid of the word “change.” Let’s break forth into a new dynamic for
corporate destiny.