The Meaning of Life: Why am I here?

            What is the meaning of life?  Before accepting Christ at age 32, I had never given this question a second thought; my time was fully given to simply living my life.  However, since that life changing event I have considered it many times.  It seems when eternity gained my attention as significant, this life too gained more meaning.

            Using “Bible” as an acronym for the cutesy phrase “Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth” is an accurate description of the Word of God.  It is full of the best information that exists about this life.  It truly is like having an owner’s manual written by the manufacturer. We gain understanding from a manual how to care for, protect, repair, and even enjoy a product, but not necessarily why we have it in the first place. God’s Word is multifaceted; He certainly instructs HOW to live this life and while there is not a verse “X” of book “Y” that says the meaning of life is:  “A-B-C”, we have no better resource than the Bible from which to gain insight as to WHY we are here as well.

            We have been intentionally created in the image of God.  Similar to a man and a woman being designed to accommodate their “coming together” as one, mankind has been uniquely designed to join spiritually with our Creator.  It is clear from Scripture that God loves us (Jn 3:16 for one example of many).  It is just as clear that He is interested in an intimate relationship with us; we are invited to become sons of God (Jn 1:12), a bride to Christ (Rev 19:7-9), co-heirs with Jesus (Ro 8:17), a temple for The Holy Spirit (1Co 6:19).  These invitations require more than a casual response.  This cannot be accomplished without an authentic choice to love.  It is impossible to truly choose to love unless you have a real option to choose not to. This life, with all of its distractions and temptations, provides the opportunity to choose between acceptance of His invitation and rejection of the truth He offers.

           The most important, most significant purpose this life holds is Accepting God’s relationship invitation.  Without this purpose realized everything we could hope to accomplish is fleeting at best; making a possible mark on human history, but leaving eternity untouched.  While salvation through Jesus is the doorway to eternity it is not the ONLY reason we are here.  Too many people dismiss Godly instruction on how to live life, based on the fact that salvation is by faith alone, not by works; concluding that works are somehow insignificant.  Ironically, the verse they are recalling is immediately followed by:  “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works” Eph 2:10. They tend to overlook that not everything in the New Testament has to do with salvation.

            Everyone who is “born-again” as Jesus put it (Jn 3:3); will be welcomed into their eternal home in heaven after this life.  But just as the phrase itself implies, being “born”-again is a beginning, not a completion.  Three different writers of the New Testament compare new Christians to babies needing milk, not yet able to handle meat: “Brothers, I could not address you as spiritual but as worldly—mere infants in Christ.  I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready.” 1Co 3:1&2 (see also Heb 5:12&13 &1Pe 2:1&2); these texts strongly imply there is an expectation of a maturing process; we are not to stay spiritual newborns. In Philippians 2 we are counseled to “work out your salvation”.  From the context it is clear there is much work to be done here on Earth by those of us who have already received salvation through faith in Jesus, not by works.  In four different books we are encouraged to live this life for Christ as if we are running a race.  Paul says to, “Run in such a way as to get the prize” 1Co 9:24.   Also, in four different places Paul writes of approaching this life as a fight, “fight the good fight” he says.  Even Jesus gave us the great commission to, “go and make disciples of all nations” Mt 28:19&20, but many people question: “WHY?  I’ve got mine.  The Bible gives me assurances that I am saved by belief alone in Jesus.”  Why do the New Testament and Paul in particular, take such an aggressive approach to life in Christ?  The short answer is: Our works will be judged.

            In this day and age of political correctness, universal acceptance, and “live and let live” mentality (which are total hogwash by the way) there are few words hated more than judgment.  But did you know that there is a judgment reserved only for Christians?  That’s right: “If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man’s work. If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. If it is burned up, he will suffer loss; he himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames.” 1Co 3:12-15.  Notice it is the SAVED ones’ WORK that will be judged.  There are rewards as well as losses to be had when works are judged.  Paul, James, and Peter write of eternal crowns being earned.  These may be literal crowns, or they could be representative of the rewards from the judgment of works.  Do our works really matter?  If not, why will they be judged? 

            Apart from the fact that Jesus instructs us to, and that a true loving relationship will include self-sacrifice and obedience to our Lord, not everyone who finds eternal life will be eternally equal.  There is nothing in Scripture to indicate heaven is a great big room where everyone who accepted Jesus will have a chair and a harp of their own on which to pluck; quite the contrary.

            All in heaven will not have the same authority or standing.  We will not have access to all the same areas, same privileges, or responsibilities.  There are many places in the Bible that indicate all is not equal in the kingdom of heaven.  Based on how well we follow and teach commands in this world, for example, some will be called “least” while others will be called “great” (Mt 5:19).  Humility is significant: “Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Mt 18:4; positions are granted: “These places belong to those for whom they have been prepared by my Father.” Mt 20:23b; privileges and duties earned: “…so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” Lk22:30; use of wealth in this world will affect eternal access: “I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings.” Lk 16:9.  Jesus also told many parables teaching faithfulness and trustworthiness now will have great impact for eternity.

            When we leave this world we will be put into the exact position of trustworthiness, responsibility, and privilege as we deserve.  God knows us better than we know ourselves: “He said to them, ‘You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your hearts. What is highly valued among men is detestable in God’s sight.’” Lk16:15.  He will not be deceived by a sales pitch as our earthy bosses, companions, and even we ourselves can be.  Success in this world looks very different to God than it does to us.  His ways are not our ways.  Considering all of this, we have an amazing opportunity in this world to dramatically affect our eternal standing.  This purpose gives meaning to this life. 

            Before you start claiming (as I have), “If God would simply tell me clearly what He wants me to do, I would do it”, consider this: God is very pleased with faith; in fact it is impossible to please Him without it (Heb 11:6).  It seems living obediently out of faith is more highly respected in the Kingdom of God than being obedient once you have seen God face to face, or heard His voice undeniably.  Apart from Jesus, no one has interacted more personally with God than Moses; and no one has been held to a higher expectation of obedience.  After four decades of faithful service leading God’s people, Moses was denied the privilege of entering the Promised Land because he struck a rock with his staff to bring forth water as he had done previously, instead of simply speaking to it as God had instructed on this particular occasion.  Similarly, James gives caution to the church: “Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.” Jas 3:1. With greater privilege comes much greater expectation. As always, be careful what you ask for, presume, or demand; you just might get it. 

            Jesus is our perfect example of how to live this life with the greatest possible meaning and purpose for eternity.  His life does not paint a picture of the comforts, acceptance, or ease this world has to offer.  He lived as the ultimate self-sacrificing servant with eternity always in perfect focus, at times ignoring the rules, protocols, and even natural laws of the world around Him.  He was nobody’s pansy, patsy, or politically correct puppet, but He was always lovingly interested in other’s needs.  Obedience and submission to our Father in heaven ruled His life, even unto death.  He was perfectly balanced and uncompromising in truth.  There were times to teach, heal, feed, rebuke, laugh, cry, and even die, as well as times to NOT do each of these.

            The priorities we set, integrity we keep, love and forgiveness we extend will impact our eternity.  How we live, is the meaning of life.

Spiritual Warfare: Am I under attack?

            I often tell people we live on a battlefield.  As we go about our everyday lives there is a spiritual battle raging about us, as well as very often within us.  Similar to gravity, you don’t have to see it, understand it, or even believe in it; it continues uninterrupted by our ignorance.  The evidence of the battle is just as clear as the evidence for gravity, if you know what to look for.

            Spiritual warfare is the clash of good and evil in the spirit realm, which has profound effects on the natural, physical realm.  While the Bible tells us the war has been won (1Co 15:55&56), the battle rages on with very real consequences and casualties.  We, my friends, are the spoils of this war. (Jn 8:10)

 

            God’s love for us is at the very heart of this conflict.  Although they are timeless, angels existed before physical creation which makes up our universe; they were given foreknowledge of God’s plan for our existence.  The thought of serving man, an inferior being with superior opportunity, was completely repulsive to Lucifer.  When he learned of God’s plan to incarnate, to become man Himself, it was too much for him.  In a jealous fit of prideful rage he snapped and rebelled against the thought of it, as well as ultimately God Himself, taking a third of his brothers with him.  There began his goal of keeping mankind from the love of God.

 

            Since all of mankind has the potential to receive God’s love, His salvation, and become what Lucifer, or Satan, could not, we are all the target of this warfare. (1Pe 5:8)  Those among us who do not know Jesus are of great interest to our enemy, but require little attention because they are at this time his; Christians, however, are of great interest and attention.  Even though it is too late for him to “possess” us, meaning to own us, he relishes the thought of killing, stealing from, and destroying our lives.  He and his fallen angels attack us continually using people they control; as well as directly from around, on, and WITHIN us; while invisible to our natural eyes.

 

            A very common question that comes up on this topic is, “Can a demon indwell (be within) a Christian?”  Many Christians say, they, as well as other true believers cannot have evil spirits within them because of the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit; HOGWASH!  I deny anyone the ability to find one actual deliverance minister who holds this view.  This view is only held by those with no firsthand personal face to face experience with an indwelling demon, but only theological opinion.  Let me be clear here to believers who hold this view:  You need to stop theorizing and actually engage in the battle your Lord has called you into, use the powerful authority He has given you, and you will soon exchange this view that keeps you feeling safe and comfortable for the truth.  You might even find yourself useful in the fight instead of advancing the work of our enemy.  Stop allowing fear to rule you; it is likely a demon within.

 

            The only verse I ever hear quoted to support this “none-within” view is: “What fellowship does light have with darkness?” 2Co 6:14b  This verse is actually instructing us to use wisdom is choosing partners because we do not think the same as non-believers.  If the none-within view of this verse were correct believers would not be able to sit on a bus next to a non-believer without one of the two bursting into flames, and evil would cease to exist because God is Omni-present.  What I see in scripture is that deliverance (or exorcism for our catholic friends) is ONLY for followers of Jesus.  In chapter 12 of Matthew, Jesus teaches, when a demon is cast out of someone who does not have the presence of the Holy Spirit within them, it will return with friends and make the person worse off than before.  So if you dare to expel demons from anyone who is NOT a Christian, you need to be certain you can “fill their house” with the Holy Spirit before you start.

 

            As I am sure you can imagine, having a home on a battlefield makes all of us vulnerable to attacks to some degree.  In a physical battle, bullets are flying, bombs are going off; even if you are not personally in someone’s sights you may be wounded.  In the spirit realm there is what I refer to as “opportunistic demons”.  They don’t have a specific mission or target; they simply look for opportunities to disrupt someone’s life. They would be similar to unarmed invisible enemy soldiers roaming randomly through the ranks looking for whom they might strike.  We all get affected by these.  Once you know they are there and the cause of a problem, they are not particularly difficult to deal with.  Headaches, nagging thoughts, or temptation are often signs of their work.  Our bigger problems come from those on a mission, with a specific target.

 

            Nothing paints a target on our lives bigger, better, or faster than sin.  When we disagree with God in our choices we are cooperating with our enemy.  Its like we leave our doors and windows unlocked inviting our enemy to come in and take control.  “Jesus replied, ‘I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.’” Jn 8:34  Often it is someone else’s sin that gives our enemy access to our house.  We might even inherit our houses with the windows broken and doors left open from our parents; this would be a generational curse.  While we were not personally responsible for the cause of the vulnerable house, it is our problem to resolve.  Another way someone else’s sin can cause vulnerability to our safety is when someone has authority in our lives.  It doesn’t matter if it is permissive, someone to whom we gave authority, like a pastor; or positional, someone who has authority just because of the nature of their role in our lives, like our parents for example.  If they use their authority inappropriately or irresponsibly they can make our house vulnerable.  All of these are pictures of our enemy having access to us through rights of some kind.  It’s as if they have a set of keys to our house that they can come and go as they please.  Evil spirits do not fight fair.  It does not matter if you are responsible, only if you are vulnerable.  They will enter if able and take you captive.  Appeasing, or cooperating with them for temporary relief only empowers them, strengthening their hold on you.  A battle is never easy, but cooperating with the enemy is never a good strategy.

 

            Some sin carries with it at least different, if not more severe, consequences than others: “In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.” Eph 4:26&27  Not all anger is sin, but apparently “old” anger gives the devil a foothold; “But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Mt 6:15  The sin of unforgiveness works very powerfully against us.  This verse from the Word of God challenges a lot of men’s theology; “Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body.” 1Co 6:18  Here, sexual sin is set apart as different from all other.  Experientially we know that EVERY act of sexual intimacy creates what is known as a “soul-tie”, whether it is honorably between a husband and wife, dishonorably (sinfully) in any other form, or even by force.  This fact is indicated in Scripture: “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.” Gen 2:24  Becoming “one flesh”, or having a soul-tie creates a connection between those involved that goes way beyond the physical act.  There is a spiritual connection made that allows open access one to the other.  Using the house analogy, it is like an open tunnel is dug from one house to another creating a permanent connection.  When a tunnel is dug to a sexual partner’s house, you are then connected by this tunnel system to every sexual partner they have ever, or will ever, have.  Demons can easily and legally travel from one person to another through the network of soul-ties, or tunnels.

 

           Some sin seems especially offensive to God, such as someone who: “practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft,  or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead.  Anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD” Duet 18:10-12;  These are forms of idolatry and are directly cooperating with demons who are very quick to perform powerful and deceptive acts by which they entrap those who do not pay attention to God’s warning of these dangerous practices

 

            Unfortunately those who do not know Christ as their Savior have no power with which to fight these many attacks.  However, for Christians it is different, “The seventy-two returned with joy and said, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.” He replied, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” Lk 10:17-19  While it is the power of freewill, our choosing to sin, that creates most of our spiritual vulnerability, it is the power of Christ, and His authority given to us that is the solution.  No matter what our problem, Jesus is the answer.  Jesus is Truth.  When lies are destroying our lives, we need to seek Him for truth.  When our sin is the problem, we need the power of His forgiveness through the cross by repenting and confessing.  When other’s sin affects us, we need His authority to break soul-ties, and His strength to choose to forgive.  Through Jesus we are able to repair broken windows, lock the open doors, and even dig up tunnels and fill them in.

 

            Renouncing all cooperation with our enemy; repenting (change the way we think) of sin through confession; rejecting our enemy in every form; recanting (take back something spoken) all vowels, commitments, promises, oaths, or rites; forgiving all, including self; as well as breaking all unhealthy soul-ties in Jesus name; are all acts of shutting off access of our enemy to our house.  Once the house is locked down, we need to KICK HIM OUT!  Expelling, or casting out our enemy from us is an act of authority, not prayer.  God will not do for us what He has empowered us to do.  Jesus said He GAVE US authority to overcome all the power of the enemy.  Speak out loud whatever is appropriate to your situation, “I command the spirit of addiction gone to judgment in Jesus name!”; NOT “Jesus will you remove the spirit of addiction”.  Repeat as necessary, get help if necessary, contact me if necessary, they can be stubborn.  If you feel weird things, that’s good; keep going.  When finished invite the Holy Spirit to fill up every place that has been vacated.

False Teachings: Have I been mislead?

           There is a lot of false teaching in this world.  Even if we narrow the conversation only to the arena of God and religion we could fill numerous books with the material.  For the sake of space I will simply be refuting false teaching as it pertains to Biblical salvation.

The Truth:

            The Bible states, “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life” Jn 3:36a.  Eternal life is here referring to a right relationship with God which brings with it many benefits, such as: becoming a new creation as an accepted child of God, having a home in heaven for eternity, sins forgiven, authority over our enemy, indwelling Holy Spirit, spiritual gifts, and even access to God Himself, all through belief in Jesus. This is what the Bible says we are to believe about the Son: “…that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” 1Co 15:3&4.  The Bible also states very clearly that salvation is: “the gift of God-- not by works, so that no one can boast” Eph 2:8b&9 Confusion comes to the topic of salvation when a “necessary” action (or work) is added to the simple gospel message.  By far, the most frequent offenders of this “adding” are simple misunderstanding and religion.

Universalism:

            The most common misunderstandings are almost universally accepted.  “Good people go to heaven (or are saved) and bad people go to hell.”  This seems to make sense, after all, this is what most are told from cradle to grave in every TV show, movie, book, and story we ever experience.  The all important questions that need to accompany this belief seem to remain forever unasked and unanswered:  “How good earns heaven?”  “How bad warrants hell?”  “Who decides?”

            Without these answers, most default to the next most common misunderstanding:  “God  grades on the curve.”  If asked, “Who do you think will go to hell?” most would respond, “Hitler”, “mass murderers”, or “child molesters”, something like that, but will almost always indicate someone or some group worse in their eyes than themselves.  While looking around to see if we are better than those around us is often comforting, that is not God’s plan.  Contrary to this belief the Bible tells us that ALL have sinned and fall short (Ro 3:23) and that this sin has earned us death (hell) apart from the gift of God through faith in Jesus. (Ro 6:23)  The most dangerous thing about these misunderstandings is the belief that most people are automatically saved and look forward to heaven when they die, when in fact the Bible tells us that many more people will go to their destruction than those who find life. (Mt 7:13&14)

Religion:

            “Religion”, as used here, is defined as man’s attempt to make himself right with God.  Just like the Old Testament law, it consists of a set of rules universally applied to all, requiring no relationship with God.  However, the grace and truth that Jesus introduced is all about relationship, unique with each of us.  While there are still absolutes for all, believing in Jesus and being known by Him personally is at the heart of salvation.  We cannot fix the problem we have created through sin; we cannot make ourselves right with God.  Jesus did not talk about helping us or offer a plan of assistance.  The Bible teaches we actually need to be completely saved by Him from our condition of lost and spiritually dead. 

            Some denominations claim their leaders and traditions have a higher authority than that of the Bible, without offering a reasonable explanation as to why that should be. This gives them great latitude to create their own plan of salvation apart from Scripture. (If you are not familiar with the reasons we have to trust the Bible above all else, please read the post The Bible in this series.)  Religion is based on works, or deeds; performing acts of sacrifice; ritual, or ceremony in order to earn God’s favor.  As we have already read, however, “works” don’t work.  Jesus has done all the work that needs to be done; He has finished the sacrificing necessary (Heb 10).  To say we need to help Him save us implies what He did was not enough; God says it was, and we simply need to believe in Jesus.  Those who teach that we need to “purge” ourselves of certain types of sin have  used this teaching to control and manipulate through fear, those who believe their heresy. 

Good Deeds:

            Some argue that “good works” are a part of the plan of salvation.  They generally point to the verse in James that reads: “You see that a person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone.” Jas 2:24  If we only had this verse I could concede an apparent contradiction, but a contradiction at best.  Having this verse in the Bible does not make void the verse quoted earlier, “the gift of God—not by works”.  I’ve come to learn that whenever there is an apparent contradiction in the Bible, I’m about to learn something, because a little more digging will reveal my misunderstanding.  Looking further at the context of the James verse above clarifies what is not obvious from the one verse. 

            Any person can claim to have saving faith in Jesus; it only takes a few words, but making a claim does not save any more than simply knowing how to spell “Jesus” saves.  Understanding and accepting in your heart who Jesus is and what He did for you is “believing in Him”; and this WILL NOTICEABLY CHANGE you.  The Bible says we actually become a new creation (2Co 5:17).  A person’s claim to have accepted Jesus can be justified or not by judging their works.  James is not saying that faith in conjunction with works is necessary to save, but that a faith that saves will always produce good works that are evident.  In verse 14 of that same chapter we read: “Can such faith save him?”  and in verse 18: “Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do.”  In context, there is no contradiction at all.  Our faith can be and should be judged, or observed.  We are saved by faith alone and once changed by that faith, we will then produce good works.

Baptism:

            Another popular teaching is that you are not actually saved until you are submerged in water, baptized.  Ironically this is not a doctrine of the “Baptists”.  To my knowledge, there are three scriptures that are generally referenced to defend the “necessity” of baptism for salvation.  “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” MK 16:16  This could just as easily say, “Whoever believes and shops at Kroger will be saved” because the second half of the verse clarifies “believing” as the key to avoiding condemnation.  I am not at all trying to diminish the importance of being baptized as the proper response to receiving the gift of salvation; even Jesus, though He had no sin, was baptized out of obedience.  The point is, not all things that are important are a part of the gospel message.

            “When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?" Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you” AC 2:37&38a This group of people believed what they had just heard from Peter, “they were cut to the heart”.  When wondering how to respond after just accepting the message of Christ, the only appropriate response for Peter to give would be, “Repent and be baptized”.

“…and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also--not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ” 1PE 3:21  It is very clear throughout the New Testament that physical baptism in water is not the only baptism that there is.  Many verses contrast John’s water baptism with the baptism of the Spirit, of fire, power, among others.  It seems apparent to me that Peter is talking about a spiritual baptism when he emphasizes, “not the removal of dirt from the body” which to me says, “not the physical” but rather, “It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ” which is spiritual.

I don’t mean to be rude here, but some that teach this doctrine see water baptism every time the Bible mentions moisture of any kind.  I’ve even heard it taught that Jesus was including water baptism in the gospel message while talking with Nicodemus because He said, “no one can enter the Kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.”  Jn 3:5  Even though He immediately continues by clarifying, “Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit.” Jn 3:6  They seem to miss the main point He is making about being “born again”, not just into this world of flesh made of water, but coming alive spiritually as well.  Baptism is our appropriate response to God after accepting what He has done; it is not our act to do, which obligates His respond to us.

Speaking in Tongues:
           Some in Pentecostal denominations believe and teach that unless one has the evidence of “speaking in tongues”, they are not truly saved.  I have never heard a good Biblical argument that supports this teaching so I will simply address the little I have heard.  Let’s go back to that same conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus in John 3.  After Jesus says is verse 7, “You must be born again.” He continues by giving an analogy of the Spirit, “The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going.  So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”  From this verse, some say that since Jesus referred to recognizing the wind by its sound, He must have meant that we would also recognize the coming of the Spirit by His sound.  In order to reconcile this belief with scripture that clearly contradicts it; they have taken this supposed initial sounding of the Spirit and transformed it into a unique speaking, which is NEVER actually mentioned in scripture.

            Once again, Biblical “speaking in tongues” has much value and benefit, but it is simply ONE of the many spiritual gifts that the Spirit gives as He chooses (1Co 12:7-11), not a necessary action to authenticate the presence of the Holy Spirit who comes to all who believe.

Angels & Demons: Who or what are they?

            Some of what I share here will be my opinion based on personal experience and interrogation of both angels and demons and not necessarily from the Bible.  However, if you discover ANYTHING I share to be CONTRARY to scripture, PLEASE contact me immediately with Biblical evidence of my error and I will make corrections.

            When talking about angels and demons, to me, the only logical place to start is with angels, since that also is where demons started.  Let’s begin with “what” they are.  Different from human beings, who are born to parents, angels are uniquely created spiritual beings; meaning each one was uniquely created by God.  People do not become angels when they die anymore than a dog becomes human.  There are different kinds of created spiritual beings (even beyond humans and angels) but never does one become another.

            One of the most revealing texts in the Bible about angels says, “Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” Heb 1:14  Notice they are ALL ministering spirits; they have jobs to do, functions and purposes to fulfill.  They are sent; so they travel from where they were to where “those who will inherit salvation” are.  They are sent to serve, work in the best interest of, salvation recipients.  It is very important to note at this point that holy angels are completely submissive to God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.  While they are sent to serve the saved they are not submissive to us, but rather work in our best interest as God sees fit.  Quite frankly, we are too stupid to command such holy, intelligent, supernatural beings. We can certainly make requests of them, expressing our preferences, but they know far better than we what is actually in our best interest.  It is similar to a childcare provider who is hired to watch over or serve as a child’s protector.  They would be considered irresponsible if they were to cater to the whims of the child, even if the child had the best of intentions.

            As far a “who” they are; they are individuals.  They have unique personalities just as we do.  While they were all created at the same time (not an ongoing process) they were created with varying qualities. Having very different experiences, interactions, and jobs to do forms and molds them into infinitely differing beings.  They have unique names in their native language which we could not pronounce.  Those who are sent to interact with humans choose or receive names we can use.  In the Bible we only read of two proper names of angels: Michael and Gabriel, but that is enough to Biblically show they have them.  While they do not “grow up” they do mature through their experiences which give them the appearance of aging differently one from another. 

            I occasionally work with one angel who is VERY MUCH like a teenager, while two others are much more reserved, wise, and patient.  While they may not readily admit it, they are very emotional.  They get very excited (especially during Godly worship), they get very angry (at times during warfare), they get violent (oh my, when a demon pretends to be an angel 2Co11:14&15), frustrated, impatient, very loving, protective, and completely loyal.  Some even have a great sense of humor.  I was once frustrated with an angel co-worker and had to go away to pray about it.  When I returned I told him, “I talked to Jesus about you...”  He said, “Let me guess; HE told you we are not perfect, but perfected.”  He was correct, that was the essence of what Jesus told me in private.  They can be wrong, but they cannot deceive.  They do not know all, but they know much more than any of us.  While ministry is the work of God Himself and cannot happen apart from Him, as one of few humans who happen to be so privileged, I can tell you angels definitely make the best ministry partners.

            So then, “what” are demons?  “Demon” is the term that is generally applied to evil spirits.  Technically, demons are only one type of evil spirit.  The Bible tells of many levels of demons in this world and the heavenly realms; “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Eph 6:12  I believe much of this is describing their various ranks, but some is undoubtedly their types as well.  I have personally run off too many demons to guess a number, but also those who like to be referred to with titles of “prince” and “lord”, which other demons acknowledge as appropriate among their ranks.  There are the “Jinn” which are primarily middle-eastern spirits, which are more fluid-like, similar to oil.  Jesus gave me the idea one day to catch a jinn in a container like a jar, which proved very affective.  I later learned that the jinn inspired the stories of a “Jeanie in a bottle”.  All of these are still types or positions of demons, but then there are also devils.

            Devils are MUCH stronger than demons.  They generally seem to be smarter and more in control of themselves as well.  They are rooted more deeply, usually through ritual or dedication of some type, and much harder to dislodge.  I am told that their make-up is different as well.  That they cannot be injured or harmed in the same way demons and at least most angels can.  Devils can deceive very powerfully.  While in the midst of a raging battle, they can speak calmly, seductively, something your everyday demon cannot do.  I have no doubt that many “familiar spirits” (spirits or voices that are known) are in fact devils.  They convince their victims that they are their friends, protectors, their guiding angels, spirit-guides; call them what you will they are our enemy out to kill, steal, and destroy with a soft tone and a friendly voice.

            Be it a demon, a prince, a lord, the jinn, or even a devil, they are all EVIL spirits and our enemy.  They are all fallen angels. That’s right, every evil spirit was at one time an angel of God.  Speaking of Satan, the Bible says, “He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.” Rev 12:9  Therefore, the answer to what they are and where they came from is the same as the angels.  So what happened, what changed?

            In Ezekiel 28 God seems to have had an ADD moment.  While speaking of the king of Tyre, He appears to distract to lamenting Satan’s fall.  Here are just a few lines extracted;  “‘You were the model of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty. You were in Eden, the garden of God; You were anointed as a guardian cherub. You were on the holy mount of God; You were blameless in your ways from the day you were created till wickedness was found in you. You were filled with violence, and you sinned. So I drove you in disgrace from the mount of God, and I expelled you, O guardian cherub, your heart became proud on account of your beauty, and you corrupted your wisdom because of your splendor. So I threw you to the earth; I made a spectacle of you before kings.”  It is said that because of his splendor and deception a third of the angels fell with him, which is what accounts for his army of evil spirits. Rev 12:4.

            I believe it is reasonable to assume that when a Master’s servants rebel and become His enemy by choice, He is NOT going to empower them with additional powers or abilities that they did not have before.  Therefore, I conclude ANYTHING an evil spirit can do, a holy angel of God can certainly do.  What IS different is their character, why and how they do the things they do.  Evil spirits will cheat, lie, deceive, and force anything they are able to in order to accomplish their will.  Holy angels will only do what is allowed by God, reflective of His character.  When it comes to interacting with humans, evil spirits look for opportunities of legal rights to  take advantage of; while angels work within permissive rights.  So what kinds of things do they do?

            There are approximately 200 references to angels in the Bible; so they are busy.  Much of what they do is to serve as messengers and warriors, but that is like saying people work as salesmen and teachers.  Yes, this is true, but there is so much more as well.  Suffice it to say, they are all working in loyal service to God, however He decides how that is to look for each of them, but what about demons?

            Demons on the other hand are doing just the opposite.  They are constantly working against us to kill, steal, and destroy.  They are constantly attacking us in many areas of our lives, but given even a small opportunity they will move into our bodies and attack us from within as well.  This concept of indwelling demons is extremely common throughout the gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.  Jesus dealt with it quite often and instructs us to do so as well. “I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” Lk 10:19  (As this pamphlet is about Angels & Demons, I’m not going to get into the battling of them here.  Look for the post WARFARE in this series for that discussion.)  Just as demons are able to enter human bodies, under the right conditions and permissions so too can angels.

            If we are doing the things God calls us to be doing, we will absolutely encounter evil spiritual beings.  Mt 10:8  This should be normal, just as it was for Jesus, but we need to be careful.  They will try to deceive us as often as they can.  Apparently, God also expects us to encounter His holy servants.  “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God” 1Jn 4:1a  Notice this verse does not say, “Do not believe any spirit; they are not from God” rather, the Bible goes on to tell us how to test them; “Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God.” 1Jn 4:2b&3a  If you are a Christian you have no reason to be afraid of angels or demons.  Angels are sent to work on your behalf, and you have been given authority to command demons.  Test them to know what you are dealing with.  The only danger is if you refuse to acknowledge they are at work; without resistance, their success is much easier.  If you are not a Christian, well, that is a bigger problem for many reasons, but definitely do not try to engage evil spirits with your authority; you don’t have any.  Call a Christian to help.

God's Law: Is the church to judge?

            “God’s Law” is the expressed will of God.  Any activity in someone’s life that is knowingly contrary to this is sin.  If it is persistent, they are said to be “living in sin”.  It can be a life-style, habit, a weakness or tendency, or even a persistent way of thinking.  One of the reasons God gave us the Bible is so we could know His will.
 

            Each of us is accountable to God for every action we willfully take, every thought we entertain. “It is written: ‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord, ‘every knee will bow before me; every tongue will confess to God.’ So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.” Ro 14:11&12.    Many sinful actions are taken by others, against our will, that affect our lives for which we are NOT responsible.  A husband or father drinks too much and comes home to abuse his family, for example.  Too often we ourselves are forced to participate in things that are against our will that would otherwise be sinful, but when forced upon us, are NOT.  Rape is a horrific example of this.  It is important to place the blame for such events as these on the people that chose to bring them about, as God does, and not on the victims.

 

            Most of us would agree that if we were the ones making willful choices to rape or otherwise abuse someone, we are responsible, should be held accountable, and if justice is served suffer the consequences.  The topic of sin gets very passionate and personal, however, when we discuss actions and ways of thinking that are perceived as harming no one, or at least harming no one except possibly the one making the choice.  I would agree with this method of justice when it comes to civil law; if my actions will not potentially harm another, stay out of my business.
 

            We have a responsibility to abide by the rule of law in our community, unless of course it conflicts with God’s law Acts 4:19.  If we disagree with a law, we can certainly try to change it.  If we can’t change it, we can choose to move to a different community.  Short of successfully doing either of these we have the option to change our ways, or break the law.  From 1974 to 1987 this entire country had a maximum speed limit of 55.  I hated it, disagreed with it, and frequently disobeyed it. On the couple of occasions that I was caught disobeying the law, I never tried to convince anyone that it was not the law or that I was not bound by it since I disagreed with it.  I accepted the financial consequences, hated the law a little more, and continued to unlawfully disregard it at times.  I knew it was my choice, my responsibility, and     my wallet that would potentially suffer the consequences. But is it wise to tell God, “Stay out of my business”?  Consequences to God’s Laws are eternal, and He alone has a perfect eternal perspective.
 

            There are some laws that are inherently built into the human race by our Creator.  They generally fall into the categories discussed earlier of doing harm to others.  We understand these laws, whether we obey them or not.  You can choose to steal from your neighbor without cause, but you know it is wrong.  While revealing Himself to the world through the Israeli people, God bullet- pointed these laws for all to understand in the Ten Commandments.  As members of the human race these commandments apply to us, we live under their jurisdiction, yes, even today.  We do not have the option to change, or move away from these laws.  We can only choose to abide by them or suffer the consequences (we don’t even have the option to disobey and not get caught as with my speeding). “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.” Heb 4:13  Jesus said He did not come to abolish these commands, but rather to fulfill them.  He taught that it is really about the attitude of the heart.  For example:  “You have heard that it was said, ‘Do not commit adultery.’  But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Mt 5:27&28  Ouch! That’s a tough one.
 

            We are further taught that love is the fulfillment of the law.  If you love perfectly, all of the commands will be kept. However, it is just as true that if you are not keeping the commands, you are not loving as you should.  We are told that “God is love”, meaning everything He does is done with love.  I believe this brings confusion to some.  God is love does NOT mean the same thing as “Love is God”, which means love trumps everything else.  I love the fact that much of the seeker-sensitive church of today has an understanding of God’s love for His children as opposed to believing He is angry and just waiting for us to mess up so He can smite us.  But to cling only to His love ignores everything He is in addition to love, including JUST.  The “Love Wins.” mentality somehow gets translated to, “If you are living in sin, contrary to God’s will, it’s okay, because I love you, and God loves you, period”. J
 

            This sounds nice, and is true until you add the period. There are some serious Biblical principals violated by this line of thinking.  The first is we are expected to REBUKE:

“If your brother sins, REBUKE HIM, and if he repents, forgive him.” Lk 17:3 

“Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; CORRECT; REBUKE and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” 2Ti 4:2

“This testimony is true. Therefore, REBUKE them SHARPLY, so that they will be sound in the faith” Tit 1:13

“These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and REBUKE with all authority.” Tit 2:15 

And Finally, Jesus says, “Those whom I love I REBUKE and DISCIPLINE. So be earnest, and repent.” Rev 3:19
 

            The reason I have listed so many Bible references here is to show this idea of rebuking wrong behavior is not an obscure, single reference taken out of context.  Many people today love to overlook all of this Godly instruction: “Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.” 2Ti 4:3
 

            So what is it we are expected to rebuke: things that make us uncomfortable; things that we ourselves would not do; things we think others should not be doing?  NO, we are not the ones to determine right from wrong, good from evil.  God alone stands apart from mankind and God alone can objectively determine these things without bias.  In His infinite wisdom He wrote us a beautiful love letter which is the Bible.  In it, He clarifies beyond question specific behaviors and attitudes as to their benefit vs. harm, goodness vs. evilness, as well as teaching many principles for us to apply in all areas of life:
 

 “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Heb 4:12  God says it’s not hard to tell: “The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.” Gal 5:19-21
 

            Another principle violated by the “All you need is love” thinking is hated by many these days, JUDGMENT.  There are many different forms of judging as well as different motivations for judging.  There is judgment that is simply observing.  I can walk into my back yard, observe the evidence, and make a judgment; is my tree an oak or a maple?  As discussed earlier, there is civil judgment that we all live under.  It is simply the enforcement of the laws of the land.  But then there is judgment of morality which can either be done for the purpose of condemnation, or with the motivation of love to build up, encourage, to strengthen someone.
 

            God’s laws, rules, and commands are given to protect us; keep us safe from harm.  They are much more like the guardrails on a bridge than they are the chains of a prisoner.  When we are living outside of the will of God, we are in danger.  How loving is it to allow those you claim to love remain in danger, either because of their ignorance, or your discomfort?  Remember WE are COMMANDED to REBUKE, CORRECT, TRAIN (but don’t miss this part) with great patience and careful instruction, but also SHARPLY, which is: without compromise.
 

            The bible tells us equally to judge and to not judge.  This is because, using the Bible as our guide, we are to make observations and rebuke in love, but we are not to condemn.  Also, there is a distinction drawn between those we are to judge and those we are not. “What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?” 1Co 5:12  Again, we see that when a person chooses where they will reside they are responsible to follow the laws of the land.  They live under the jurisdiction of the King by choice.  Jesus warns everyone to consider the cost before signing up, before making Him their LORD.
 

            There will be varying responses from those in the church whom we are responsible to judge.  Some will respond with repentance and be built up. Others will ignore and continue living life as THEY choose.  In some cases we, the church, are commanded to issue consequences to those who persistently thumb their nose at God:  “But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat.” 1Co 5:11 His instruction is to: “Expel the wicked man from among you.” 1Co 5:13b
 

            Freedom from sin is available to all in Christ.  One of the most misquoted verses in all of scripture is: “God will not give you more than you can handle.”  What people think they are quoting when they say this, actually reads: “And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.” 1Co 10:13  Big difference!  What this means is NO ONE has to sin.  And NO ONE can legitimately claim, “The devil made me do it.”  This claim is a very important one when we talk about the most controversial of all topics in today’s world regarding living in sin: homosexuality. 
 

            This topic may be unpopular, but God’s view is not complex: “In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion.” Ro 1:27  Anyone with an ounce of intellectual honesty can clearly see this is not God’s will.  Many claim that homosexuality is not a choice, that it is genetic.  Even if some have a stronger natural tendency than others, God says that you will not be tempted beyond what you can bear.  Others have strong tendencies toward   other sinful behaviors that must be overcome:  drunkenness, promiscuity, gluttony, even rage.  However, it is always our nature that must be made submissive to our spirit when we choose to follow Christ.  The good news is He empowers us to overcome, not to make excuses, for ourselves or others.  Love each other enough to tell the truth they may not want to hear.  You may save a life.

Salvation: What is it and who needs it?

            There is nothing more important to our eternal lives than salvation.  Having been created in God’s image (Ge 1:27), we too are eternal spiritual beings; we will live forever.  For those who have received salvation, this is great news, but for those who have not it should be frightening.

            Biblical salvation is God’s plan to save man from his condition of being eternally separated from God due to sin (an action or way of thinking that is contrary to the will of God).  I say “Biblical salvation” because there are many various plans of salvation.  Most all religions have one.  They generally include a list of things you must do, things you can never do, as well as numerous things that you should and should not do.  The lists vary from one religion to another, but being instructed to abide by a list of rules, regulation, rites, and rituals is common.  Performance, religious activity, is the name of the game.  The implication is: if you do the do’s and don’t do the don’t do’s, then somehow God will owe you for your proper performance, and eternal salvation is supposedly your reward.  This is actually describing religion, man’s effort to make himself right with God, not salvation.  Contrary to religion, the Bible rhetorically asks: “Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?” Ro 11:35

            God’s plan, as revealed in the Bible is quite different.  However, even topics of eternal significance are of little interest to those who believe they have no need.  How interested would you be in reading about the importance of medical care if no one you know has ever been sick or injured?  Before sharing God’s solution to the problem we have with Him, I will explain the problem.

            God is perfect, holy.  He defines what is good and right in Who He is.  God is not truthful because it is the right thing to be, truth is superior to deception because in His being God is truthful.  Justice is better than lawlessness without consequence because God is wholly just.  The same is true of everything He is.  No part of Him can ever be less than perfect, holy. 

            Our being created in His image comes with tremendous opportunity as well as responsibility.  Out of ALL creation we alone possess the opportunity to become sons of God.  Being a child of God is not a right or something inherent to the human race, only the opportunity is.  Sons are connected to, or a part of, their parents through a very special bond.  In order to be able to take advantage of this great opportunity, we have a responsibility to be perfect, holy, or else this is not possible.  How are you doing with your walk of perfection in God’s eyes?  You are not alone: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” Ro 3:23

            I say “in God’s eyes” because He alone establishes what is right and wrong.  It is His being that defines good apart from evil.  Many people today believe they can live a moral life by following what seems right to them.  But again, a caution comes from the Bible: “There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death” Pr 14:12. Having knowledge of good and evil in our hearts is not enough to guide us through a righteous life since we do not possess God’s understanding.  Knowledge without understanding results in separation.

            It was never God’s intention or desire for us to have instant access to the knowledge of good and evil: “but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die” Gen 2:17  God’s commands are not given to keep us from enjoying this life.  On the contrary, they are instructions to keep us safe.  This first recorded command is no different. 

            God’s statement “you will certainly die” was not a threat of punishment for disobedience, but rather a warning of natural, or supernatural, consequences to a poor choice.  It was His plan for us to walk in spiritual experience with Him as He did with Adam in the beginning.  Relationship teaches and trains, bringing understanding, whereas knowledge alone is dangerous. As with any loving parent, discipline will come for acts of disobedience, but that is not what this was.

            The first recorded act of sin was disobedience to this warning of God.  Through misrepresentation and half-truths, God’s enemy deceived our first parents into eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.  Many things happened as a result of this first poor choice.  Some were natural: fear, guilt, and shame brought about by their knowledge of evil caused them to hide, or separate, from God (Ge 3:10).  Another was supernatural, or spiritual; man did in fact die that day just as God’s warning said he would.  That death was in his spirit.  Since Adam and Eve, every person has been spiritually dead, without access to the tree of life, disconnected from our God and Father.

            Mankind was now in a condition of imperfection and separation that we could do nothing to repair.  Imagine that there is an exclusive club that you want to join for drivers with a perfect driving record.  The only problem is, that one speeding ticket you received years ago for going 1mph over the limit on the way to the hospital with your sick mother. Even if you drive absolutely perfectly the rest of your life you can never regain the status of perfect.  Remember, God’s standard is perfection, not because He is harsh, but because He is holy.  It is His standard that must be met to join His family, to live in His house.

            Immediately after our first parents fell short of the glory God intended for us, He promised One would come who would destroy His enemy and his plans.  He goes on to promise that this One would be our Redeemer, that He will fix our unfixable problem of separation.

            The Old Testament (the part of the Bible before Jesus came) is filled with stories, pictures, and prophecies about the One who would come.  It teaches of how He would come, where He would come, through whom He would come, what He will do when He comes, and even how He would die.  The most amazing thing of all, however, is that He will be called Immanuel.  This is amazing because Immanuel means, “God with us”.  God Himself promised to send His Son to live among us to restore our relationship with Himself.

            When Jesus was born on this earth it was in the right way, the right place, of the right people.  When He became a man He did the right things and even died in the right way; all in perfect fulfillment of the predictions in the Bible from hundreds and even thousands of years before He came.  Jesus came from heaven and lived a perfect, holy, sinless life on earth (the only person ever to do so). 

            Remember I said God is wholly just, meaning He cannot simply ignore or dismiss sin (violation of His law) arbitrarily?  If He   were to lovingly forgive our sin without consequence, He would be merciful (not giving us what we deserve), but not just.  If He were to lovingly grant sinners eternal life in heaven for no reason, He would be gracious (giving us what we do not deserve), but not just.  The problem we created for ourselves is only a problem because our God is completely loving, merciful, and gracious, BUT ALSO JUST.

            Because God loves mankind He has a plan of salvation, the only one that matters.  His plan includes sending His only Son to live a holy, perfect life (Heb 4:15).  With the Holy Spirit delivering His essence to the virgin, He was not even tainted through ancestry by the sin of His fathers as all of us are (Lk 1:35).  These two things make Him the only One who could ever be connected to the Father by His own doing. 

            Living the perfect sinless life was enough for Him to be connected to God the Father, but that alone only provided us with an example of how to live.  For us to be saved from our sins, we needed much more.  Condemned without cause and sentenced to death, God the Father placed upon His only Son, Jesus, the curse of death that each and every one of us deserved for our sin (Gal 3:13).  When Jesus died, justice was served, the death sentence was satisfied, and spiritual life was again available to the guilty.

            While Jesus’ sacrifice is offered to each of us, His death does not automatically apply or take our place (Jn 3:36).  We must ACCEPT His offer; we must BELIEVE in who He is and what He did for us; and we must CONFESS these things (Ro 10:9).  If we do so Jesus says we are born again (Jn 3:3), and our spirits come alive (Jn 3:5)! This is the gospel, the good news, of Jesus Christ.  You can’t earn it.  It is by faith alone (Eph 2:8&9).

            “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.  For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.  Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.”  Jn 3:16-18