Category: Watchman on Alert BLOG

Initial Watchman blog posts for Larus Press.

I will build my Church: Church needs to Change – Part 4

Post author By Dr Sarah Tun
Post date 10/09/2020
2 Comments on I will build my Church: Church needs to Change – Part 4

“I will build my church”

Jesus said, “I will build my church” (Matthew 16:18)

The whole scripture includes reference to Peter, the rock. Peter and the other apostles faithfully did follow Jesus’ call to make disciples. But from the third century onward, the development of the Christian church was taken over. Constantine made Christianity the official religion under Rome. Putting the church into Man’s hands has ensured the building of brick and mortar churches, where the people inside have become reliant upon what a priest or pastor ministers, rather than those followers of Jesus all becoming ministers as he intended, all reaching beyond the walls of the buildings to those who do not know the Gospel.

Elements of Jesus’ Church

I’d like to look one-by-one at the fourteen points I devised in a recent post ( https://laruspress.com/the-look-of-the-new-church-church-needs-to-change-part-3/ ) to discuss what Jesus’ Church is meant to look like and how we might give him room now to build it. Today I shall look at the first quality, that of Unity.

Unity

From 1 Corinthians 1:9-10 “… that we should not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead, who delivered us from great death, and does deliver us…” As we trust Him, He works in us — not only person by individual person, but also in us collectively. Oh let us capture the value of being a part of a whole, not only an individual saved by His grace.

Psalm 133:1 “How good and pleasant it is when brethren dwell together in unity”. There is no room for argument in that clear statement. But I want to define Unity, to take this a step beyond the obvious. In doing so, I draw attention to Jesus’ words and prayers as testified in the Gospel of John.

John 14: “Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in me?” Just as we know through the Spirit of GOD, that Jesus is in us who believe, so too is the Father in us. And since we all have the Spirit of Christ, are we all then through the Spirit, not also with one another? How important is it then, and valuable and critically beneficial for the Gospel, when we who abide in Christ, are also in unity with one another. Just as in the physical world, working in unity is superior to our individual endeavours in our witness and effectiveness, so too in the Spiritual realm, unity must be hugely important to the Father. Remember, this whole journey of salvation is about the glory of GOD; it is not about us. Once we are saved at the cross, we need also to move through the cross who leads us to deep intimacy with Jesus our Saviour, but also with the Father of Creation. GOD made us and put us in the Garden of Eden to be in relationship with Him.

We are not to be like the Hebrews who told Moses, ‘You go talk to God and report back to us’. Rather, we collectively and individually are meant to seek relationship with the Father. How important then to be in unity: being gracious with one another, reflecting GOD’s goodness, love and purity, which extends in and through one another.

Unity then is not copying one another; it is not being the same or thinking the same as each another. It is discovering and abiding together with GOD: It is allowing the Holy Spirit to indwell us and fill us — individually and corporately. This brings glory to GOD. And further, as we become entwined spiritually with Jesus, our intimacy with him as a body of believers exposes the love of the Son and the Father to the world.

This is my prayer: that the body of believers in Yeshua Jesus will grow together in intimacy and love, that our understanding and relationship with the Father will grow and deepen, and that — at last — mankind’s purpose for GOD’s creation of us will be fulfilled.

Tags church unity, unity of believers

Examining Biblical Scripture

The look of the New Church: Church needs to change – Part 3

Post author By Dr Sarah Tun
Post date 27/08/2020
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A friendly reader asked me what I thought the church would look like as we allow Jesus to develop his church. I didn’t know…

So I prayed.

First, the LORD showed me a blueprint in the Spirit, which I didn’t understand. I said, “I don’t want a blueprint for ME but for You, LORD!” As I stared at the spiritual blueprint, various aspects grew as part of a potential 3D model of towers in the LORD. It became clear to me that the blueprint in the picture was Jesus’ Church.

As I prayed about this, the LORD led me to 1 Corinthians, which I began to read with Jesus’ Church in mind. Several elements were revealed…elements of Jesus’ church. All of these elements are supported by Biblical references, primarily from 1 Corinthians. These are the towers that could rise up as we allow Jesus to build his Church.

So, get your Bible…

1 Corinthians 1:10 UNITY
1 Corinthians 1:29 HIS PRESENCE
1 Corinthians 2:10-13 WISDOM OF GOD
1 Corinthians 3:9 VESSELS (empty building)
Matthew 25:19 DISCIPLESHIP (verses the oak trees which are taking existing nutrients = existing church)
1 Corinthians 3:17 HOLINESS (also supported in 1 Corinthians 10)
1 Corinthians 4:2 FAITHFULNESS
1 Corinthians 4:8-16 HUMILITY
1 Corinthians 6 INTEGRITY
1 Corinthians 9:4, 7, 11, 14 SELF SUSTAINING
1 Corinthians 13:10 LOVE/PERFECT LOVE (the aim)
1 Corinthians 14:3, 5, 12, 25, 26 EDIFICATION (and CONVICTION)
1 Corinthians 15:3-8 GOSPEL
1 Corinthians 16:2 on COLLECTION (none as Paul represents)

Products which will result from the establishment of Jesus’ Church

INTIMACY (family; in Matthew 12:50 Jesus says, “For whoever does the will of my Father in Heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”)
FEARLESSLESS (fear of GOD, not man; Proverbs 1:7 & Psalm 118:6)
OBEDIENCE and HEALTH (Deuteronomy 11:22)

I could break this down into more detail, but I encourage us all to mediate on scripture for ourselves. Please challenge me if you do not agree or see something else in the scriptures I’ve presented that contradict what I’m suggesting. And certainly, let us pray that the church of Jesus becomes manifest as we pray, seek GOD, surrender fully, and wait to do as He leads us.

Shalom, dear friends.

Tags becoming Jesus Church, Church needs to Change, Church of Jesus NEW, Jesus church, Jesus new church

Examining Biblical Scripture

The Importance of Intimacy

Post author By Dr Sarah Tun
Post date 06/08/2020
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What is intimacy?

I’m talking about emotional connectedness to another person when I use the word intimacy. All people crave the opportunity to be closely connected to another person. Sometimes it is expressed in physical closeness such as sexual intercourse. But that is just one aspect and it is possible to be intimate in a purely platonic way. In fact, emotional intimacy is needed by us all, and sexual intimacy is a fraction, sometimes used as a mere substitute for the satisfaction and fullness shared through personal intimacy.

Intimacy with GOD

Psalm 63:1 states, “Joy in the Fellowship of GOD.”

When we first become “born again” we discover intimacy with Jesus (1Corinthians 1:9). Fellowship with him is profoundly comforting, interesting, fulfilling. But that doesn’t remove our craving for human intimacy. It is natural and in fact encouraged to fellowship with other Believers (Acts 2:42). As we share in our journey, we strengthen one another (Acts 16:5).

Intimacy with the people of GOD – the Fellowship of Believers

We are designed for relationship. When GOD saw Adam was alone, it was “not good” and so He made woman.

People were created for relationship with GOD and with one another. And so in our spiritual walk, we yearn to share our experiences with others who also are on a journey with GOD. Intimacy is what arises out of those relationships, when we are real with one another, open, sincere and vulnerable.

Quest for Intimacy

In our walk through life, we can become desperate for intimacy. We can seek to share and find no one to share with; this is tragic. Fellowship in a church body is meant to satisfy that need for intimacy. If the church doesn’t do it, who will?

At the same time, life experience often provokes us to develop self-protection, which thwarts intimacy; we may block the very thing we crave in order to protect ourselves from the threat of embarrassment, vulnerability or judgement. In western culture, we say to the casual question, “How are you today?” — “Oh, I’m fine” when actually we may be suffering in silence.

I used to think that fellowship was encouraged so that we would grow in Christ. This is true, but this is only part of it. When we fellowship, our need for intimacy is satisfied (or should be) through healthy, sincere relationships with other believers.

But sometimes — for any number of reasons — that doesn’t happen. Then what?

Which comes first?

Fellowship with Jesus or Fellowship with his Followers — which is our priority?

For me, it’s fellowship with Jesus. But that doesn’t mean I don’t want to have personally intimate relationships with other Believers. In fact, Paul in his various letters touches on this… He encourages people to get along (Philippians 4:2), he longs for the company of friends (Romans 15:24). Like anyone, Paul recognises the very human need for good friends.

Jesus had his twelve disciples, but three: Peter, James, John, were particularly close to him.

How do we find intimacy?

As we grow and mature in Christ, we naturally gravitate to others who have a similar perspective. Generations and cultures are crossed. When we delve deeply into the Word of GOD and we grow in maturity — from milk to meat — and as hunger for the knowledge of GOD is fed, we naturally discover relationships with others who are on a similar path. But we don’t really find intimacy, rather it finds us. When we are open to whom GOD gathers, we may become friends with those of a different culture, different generation, different socio-economic background. All this is the unifying power of the Gospel in action. Remember, when others who do not know Jesus see us, they should recognise us for our love (John 13:34-35).

We have to be willing to take risks to develop relationships… Taking a calculated risk, through observation, openness to others and gauging compatibility, helps us to build healthy relationships in as safe a way as possible. This should be possible within the family of Believers. When it isn’t safe in a church environment, then how has Christian society gone so wrong?!

“Home Groups”, Holiness, Openness… and is there a Vacuum?

The Church that Jesus started met on hillsides in the thousands. He also had smaller gatherings of 12, 70 and more. As we build our relationship with Jesus, we are encouraged to meet in large gatherings, customarily aka “church” and smaller groups — often called “cell groups”, “home groups” or “fellowship groups”.

In the smaller group, it is the intention to have prayer and share times where we can be more real and vulnerable. Such groups are intended to be like “mini – families” aren’t they, where we can be ourselves as we grow closer to GOD and develop in holiness. But does this work? Do we feel safe or real as we do in a family? Do we have the courage to be “messy”: genuine and open as we explore the Gospel and grow in total vulnerability? Or is our openness limited as it is in a social group where we enjoy one another’s company, but not wholly as a fellowship of Christians seeking to grow and share fully?

Let’s be real in our expression of intimacy

When we are open to the Word of GOD, we naturally become vulnerable as His word opens our hearts and our minds. It’s important to be self-aware of our needs, our desires. But wisdom says: be aware; emotions can get entangled with our growing spirituality. That’s part of our humanity.

Most of us come to GOD with baggage. He heals. When we allow Him to do the healing, and walk in the wisdom of His righteousness and moral fibre, we are protected from damaging that process for ourselves and for others.

Intimacy, vulnerability, these are aspects of our humanity. But the Bride needs to be open to the bridegroom first and foremost. His Holy Spirit touches us in ways we could never imagine. As we allow that process, as we connect with him on a deeply personal level, we grow in His likeness. And we are healed, set free, and are truly alive.

As we express ourselves with Jesus, we should be able to express ourselves with one another; but truthfully, this is more difficult isn’t it?

Let’s be wise, understanding our need, sharing our love

When we understand the human need for intimacy and GOD’s desire for us to fellowship, we can better accept ourselves and one another as we expose our weaknesses and celebrate our victories together.

In these circumstances, we must not judge — not ourselves, not one another. For if we judge, GOD’s judgement will bear down upon us. We will clam up, just as others will clam up around us.

Let us also be aware of guilt, shame, anger and hurt. Explosions of emotion can come out when we have pent them up. We store our emotions, hiding in our shame. But GOD wants us to allow the light to shine into all of our hidden corners, so that we can be healed and restored. There is no one without failure, and only those who have overcome are truly free from the condemnation of self and fear of others. In the process of breaking free, we can rejoice for those who share until we are ready ourselves to be transparent.

Beware the critical heart

Like anyone, I have wanted to be close to others, sharing in joys and sorrows at a deep and sincere level. Sometimes it has been easy to find a fellow who is likewise inclined. But I’m sure we have all been in circumstances where we are disappointed, where there doesn’t seem to be camaraderie.

There have been times when, in my frustration, I have become critical. Unaware of the source of my disappointment — experiencing a lack of intimacy — I have forced intimacy by expressing criticism. Even a negative expression of emotion feels better than none to one who is deeply lonely or feeling isolated. This is not good!

I have learned and I share this with you so that if this “rings true” for you, you might recognise your need for intimacy that is not being fulfilled. May I encourage us all to discover our need for intimacy and to find a humble, sincere, transparent way to express ourselves in a safe environment.

When we see others give and take in a setting of openness, then it would seem to be a safe place to share ourselves.

Share with me

When have you experienced the intimacy of the fellowship of Believers? It would be great if you could share about it to encourage others.

If there are times when you have you been denied the opportunity to draw close with fellow believers, would you share that too?

You can comment below or simply share with me privately by emailing me at: sarahtun@laruspress.com

Shalom and GOD bless.

Tags fellowship means intimacy, fellowship of believers, intimacy, quality Christian fellowship

Examining Biblical Scripture

What IS the Church of Jesus Christ?: Church needs to Change – Part 2

Post author By Dr Sarah Tun
Post date 30/07/2020
No Comments on What IS the Church of Jesus Christ?: Church needs to Change – Part 2

Torah preamble

On Saturday morning, I read the Torah Portion Plus… ie the Torah portion allocated for Jews this week as through the year, including a part of the Pentateuch (first five books of the Bible) plus an Old Testament portion and a New Testament Portion (for Messianic Jews and Gentile Followers of Yeshua). The whole consisted roundly of: Deuteronomy 1 – 3, Isaiah 1 and Matthew 24 (to verse 22).

I read the Torah Portion scriptures every Saturday, the actual Sabbath of Yehovah Father GOD, and recommend it thoroughly. He speaks through His Word but with the Torah Portion He speaks particularly loudly, clearly, timely; that has been my experience. But I digress….

Today, marking through the failures and successes of the Hebrews in the desert, then the opening of Isaiah’s prophetic word to the Jews, and finally, the end of the age according to Jesus, I suddenly had a revelation of minute data I’d been gathering and contemplating for several years. I am not special by the world’s standards at all. I used to hope I was but that longing search for expression that would be appreciated by man has died, along with the will to live my life my way. So, I am not one of note. And I am a woman. And I am approaching retirement age. So I am surprised He has shared with me this morning but I must pass this on to all who will read.

To all who are searching for GOD’s will to be done on earth as in heaven (Lord’s prayer: Matthew 6; Luke 11), read on. For the LORD has seen fit to show me me the entirety of His plan through His Kingdom and the Church designed by Jesus, and how the Gospel of the Kingdom and the Gospel of Jesus Christ are meant to be woven together. It is so simple, you might even miss it, or think you’ve known it all along.

Others must, of course, test this Word, to ensure I am correct. The Spirit of the LORD will convict us of all truth. When we allow Him to direct, we are small and He is great, and His kingdom will come on earth as in heaven.

Two Gospels, One Truth

The Gospel of the Kingdom of GOD is not the same as the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ is the Gospel of personal salvation. Jesus came to earth, born of a virgin and by the Holy Spirit, lived perfectly as the son of GOD, died innocently and rose again by the power of GOD and overcame sin and death for all who believe and follow him. Believing this and committing to following this Jesus brings us salvation from our own sinfulness and everlasting death.

The “Gospel of the Kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come” (Matthew 24:14). What is this gospel?

The Gospel of the Kingdom

The Gospel of the Kingdom is how earth can be run when GOD is in charge; when people live their lives as unto GOD, we are in an Eden, as GOD intended us to live.

The Gospel of the Kingdom is the love, justice, mercy and grace of Jehovah GOD, which we Believers are meant to live, as described in Acts 2 and 4. It is how earth is meant to be run, with people living their lives unto death in the name of Jesus. It is living as Jesus builds his church… which has little to do with the church we attend on a Sunday morning (I will share more shortly).

The Gospel of the Kingdom is the earth running as it would if it were heaven, with GOD’s judgement, truth, mercy, grace, integrity, values, peace, and love being the hallmarks of society in word yes, but in deed also.

Throughout the ages of man, since Jesus returned to the Father in heaven and sent the Holy Spirit, man has been attempting to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ through missionaries, testimony and preaching, often by coercion and physical force. But this is not Jesus’ way. His way is through the living, breathing church; as it was in the beginning when the early church, primarily led by Jews, was established, many gentiles also came to believe. In the same way now, this is the way forward for the church, if the church is to influence those who do not believe to recognise Jesus as the way to GOD.

Recently in a prayer group, a brother urged others to meditate on the LORD’s prayer, for all its nuances; every word, he rightly said, is for us to digest. Well said.

“Thy kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven” is the focus here.

While we attend church on a Sunday morning, as prescribed by Constantine in approximately 300 AD, we miss Jesus’ church almost entirely. Even though in the reformation, theology became more closely linked to the Word of GOD, yet the structure of church changed little.

Paul in 1 Corinthians addresses the idea of meeting together. There is his plea for order and for courtesy. Do not forsake meeting together, but when you meet together, don’t “pig out” (eat excessively) or blab uncontrollably. But rather, have time to listen (to the Holy Spirit and to one another), allow order and sequence. That’s about it. He did not presume to adopt or prescribe a set structure. Why do you suppose that is?

Jesus said, “I will build my church and the gates of hell will not prevail against it” didn’t he? (Matthew 16:18) I believe the church we witness today and have witnessed for some 1700 years has little to do — perhaps even nothing to do — with Jesus’ true concept of his church.

Church on a Sunday has been man’s way to “do church”, just as religion across the globe and throughout cultures has been man’s way to get to GOD. On the other hand, just as Jesus is GOD’s one way for man to get to Him, Jesus’ church is GOD’s way for us to be church.

Preparing the Bride

What has all this to do with preparing the bride for Jesus’ return? We are to live as though for heaven… fully surrendered to the Holy Spirit.

As we live and pray GOD’s will be done on earth as in heaven, the kingdom of GOD and the kingdom of heaven will influence the whole earth; GOD’s will on earth can be done as it is in heaven, through our corporate lifestyle of surrender to Him and in our love, justice, mercy and grace. As we are the church and as we live as the church of Jesus, the will of GOD is done. OUR LIFESTYLE IS CHURCH. And this will bring more of heaven to earth, touching the lives of humanity around the globe.

The way to be church is the way to be as people who follow Jesus. It’s one and the same thing. Church is not a service nor a building. Church, you’ve heard it said, are the people of GOD. I’ll add one more element: church is the people of GOD surrendered and living as followers of Jesus, united in his love, justice, mercy, and grace; it is living in the power of the Holy Spirit rather than in the power of the flesh. It is living a lifestyle of service to one another rather than partaking in a service.

Meeting on the Sabbath (Saturday) is just the beginning

For about a decade, I’ve been saying privately that the Church Age is finished, and that GOD has fundamentally left the church and is waiting to send his son to return. (Yes, there are kingdom churches but they are rare; and there are moments of His glory descending in a service, but that is an infinitesimal fraction of what He has intended all along.) This morning I understand much more clearly: Jesus is asking us to allow him to build his church before he comes.

After 1700 years of our trying, isn’t it time we gave up our authority and allowed Jesus to take authority in our hearts and also in our “church”? For the church is not a building but fellowship and being together (see previous blog: https://laruspress.com/church-needs-to-change/ ). We are family and we are sent out ones, called to live as witness to what family is meant to be in the eyes of GOD our Father.

Coronavirus is a gift to the church, not a curse

What the devil means for evil, GOD intends for good.

What lockdown and suspension of places of worship has done has given all people an opportunity to slow down, to contemplate our lives, to “smell the roses”. For followers of Jesus, it has been an opportunity to recalibrate our relationship with GOD. And to recalibrate the concept of church.

I pray we will do that, have done that, and that there is room now to let go, let GOD, and get out of the way to let Jesus build his church.

Will we do it?

Tags I will build my church, Jesus church, Spirit-filled church

Examining Biblical Scripture Watchman on Alert BLOG

The Bride of Christ

Who is the Bride of Christ and where does that phrase come from?

The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins

Matthew 25 begins,

“Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish. Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept.

“And at midnight a cry was heard: ‘Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!’ Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves. And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut.”

“Afterward the other virgins came along also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.’

“Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.”

The bridegroom is Jesus, the virgins are brides; but what about men who follow Jesus? Although we are in an age of increased liberalities in society and some are taking those liberalities and applying them to the Gospel, am I advocating marriage between men? Nope. Nor am I proposing women take a man’s role as groom so that men become brides. Well then, this bridegroom/bride analogy leads us, I think, to a reasonable question: How are men to relate the the bride analogy? Is it important?

The term “Bride of Christ” is a phrase that does not actually appear in the Bible. It suggests that the Church (ie the followers of Jesus) is the bride, since Jesus is the bridegroom, and this supports the Matthew 25 scripture above. The beauty, grace, and surrender of the bride offers a clear relational context to the bridegroom who is the faithful love, friend, protector of his bride. But is it masculine? Doesn’t seem so to me. So I wonder, do men have a problem relating to it?

Some phrases we adopt are not necessarily Biblical; an easy way to avoid assumptions and misdirections is to look up phrases we are keen on to see where they appear — if they appear — in scripture. In the case of the marriage analogy, I raise the question of masculinity because as we walk in the Spirit, “there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). In other words, gender doesn’t matter to GOD!

Finally, as an afterthought and in the desire to remove human assumption, it is possible that the virgins are a collection of people, both men and women, when Jesus refers to the virgins: innocents. For Jesus does not call these people brides — we have done that. He merely refers to the bridegroom who is coming and the virgins who are waiting. We have filled in the rest. Note however, Revelation 22:17 does seem to refer to the Church as a bride, and so this afterthought is most likely just a diversion.

The Bride is to prepare… for what?

To introduce this concept of “Preparing the Bride” and how I’ve come to the conclusion the emphasis in this Blog needs to shift in that direction, you might like to start here:

https://laruspress.com/preparing-the-bride-from-watchman-on-alert/

and then come back to this post.

This blog is for men and for women who seek to grow, to learn, to discover more about ourselves, our faith and our Jesus. Time does seem to be growing short and so I believe it is time I gear what I write to preparing myself and preparing others for Jesus’ inevitable return.

What do we need to prepare?

total surrender to the Holy Spirit and the Word of GOD
the oil of the Holy Spirit
readiness for where GOD wants our attention and focus
fellowship to help each other as we all prepare
alertness to the truth and a willingness to lay down our assumptions about the Gospel and the Word of GOD.

The Remnant

As we live in the End Times, not knowing when Jesus’ return will be yet living as though it is tomorrow, we are the remnant, the ones who are sold out for Jesus. To walk in the Spirit, without compromise, without fear, without fleshly desires, is our goal. We pray, we praise, we trust GOD.

Come Lord Jesus, come.

Tags bride of Christ, preparing second coming, remnant, return of Jesus

Examining Biblical Scripture

PREPARING THE BRIDE

ATTENTION: BLOG NAME CHANGE…..

I am a Watchman and I have been seeking the LORD on all matters, asking for discernment regarding current events and how they connect to the Word of GOD and the timing of Jesus’ return. Then I’ve shared them on this blog.

Now, I believe, it is time we prepare as Jesus’ Bride. He is coming soon! We do not know what “soon” means to GOD, but we are to prepare and I am called to encourage us — myself included — to weigh up all matters in our lives and shed that which is not of GOD and focus on our purpose in Christ Messiah…. and prepare for the Wedding Day!

And so, whilst I am still a Watchman, I am changing the name of this blog from Watchman on Alert to Preparing the Bride…

Jesus/Yeshua is the Groom. All we who follow him make up The Bride. It is a profound image given to us. It is perhaps harder for men to relate to it than for women. For women, it is easy to consider Esther as she spent a year pampered, preparing herself — body, but also mind and spirit — to meet the king, when she would be considered amongst many to be his new bride. How can men prepare as “the bride”? Perhaps it is more for them a way of preparing for battle: putting on armour, developing military strategy, preparing the mind and body and spirit for the battle ahead. For it is so true that we are all brides and soldiers for him who died to save us. Perhaps then, men can more relate to Jesus’ return as a general arriving to lead the troops in battle. What all of us can relate to is that we will have a celebration when he returns, as we all hail Jesus and give glory to Jehovah GOD who reigns in the universe, who is full of grace, mercy, justice and truth.

And so I ask you the reader, to filter everything you read from me as through the spectacles of Jesus’ return. You are his and he is yours. Let us “work out [our] own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12) as we draw closer to GOD through His Word, by His Spirit. We are his bride. Come Lord Jesus.

Hallelujah and Amen.

Tags Jesus imminent return, Jesus needs his Bride ready, Preparing the Bride of Christ

Examining Biblical Scripture

Eve’s Calling – Addendum

A couple of weeks ago I posted about Eve’s calling, and the equality of women to men in the eyes of Jesus/Yeshua ( https://laruspress.com/eves-calling-perhaps-the-most-important-post-ive-ever-written/ ).

I have a little more to share on this topic, because I want to emphasise the importance of being led of the Spirit, not only for women but for all Believers.

Life in the Spirit

In our Father GOD’s New Testament church, there is no law. We are called to “walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16) The “flesh” is not only physical, but all things carnal; sin is living according to our will, rather than the will of GOD. It is possible to “be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect” (Matthew 5:48), as we surrender our will to live according to the will of the Father, walking in the Spirit rather than in the flesh.

The first step to living in the Spirit is surrender; just as we surrender our whole lives to Jesus, we enter into an existence where, “there is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28)

It is in this realm of surrender that women are released to lead, to speak, to preach.

Life in the Flesh

However, when women lead out of their own will, havoc ensues. It is a different sort of havoc than that which men create.

Women who have sought to dominate men have done so from a spirit of control, and this is no better than men dominating women through aggression or abuse. Women who have strived for equality in the natural have pushed their equal rights beyond Godly endorsement to the degree that families are crumbling, babies are born out of wedlock at an astounding rate, and some are not born at all but are aborted. This is not equality but a denial of the unique qualities which women possess; it is sin and rebellion and lust for power.

All efforts in the flesh are dead works. These stem from pride or fear or lust and “I” is at the centre. All of us are capable of using our talents, gifts, education, aspiration to our own ends. But when they are to the glory of GOD, there is real life.

Just as men and women are equally capable of evil, so are they equally capable of goodness and all the other fruits of the Spirit when walking in the power and presence of Yehovah GOD.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23)

It is not for women to compete with men in the natural; but it is for each of us to live led by the Spirit in order to fulfil our unique purpose and calling in Christ. For “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:25) “For where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” (2 Corinthians 3:17)

Warning signs of the flesh

For me, the neon signs of my flesh rising up are strong emotion and strong sense(lessness) that I am right and others are wrong. Though the facts may bear this out, the reality is that when we feel our own anger and act upon it, the place for righteousness has been put aside. Women have a strong sense of justice, but Holy Justice is not the same as self-righteousness. We can put our feet wrong when we are certain what we sense is right but deliver a message out of anger, frustration or criticism. Righteous anger will not lose self-control which is a fruit of the Spirit; gentleness, peace and joy remain when we walk in the Spirit.

Rebuke from GOD is sharp and strong, but it is not emotional or critical. “There is no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus.…” (Romans 8:1) If our message attacks or condemns, it is not of GOD. If I stew, am bitter or hostile toward others, I am not walking in the Spirit of GOD. The Spirit of GOD convicts, is sharper than a two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12), but it does not cut, it does not seek to destroy. It speaks the word in season, and allows GOD to do the convicting.

Waves of Spiritual living

But we can take heart! Even Paul said that although he aimed to live a perfectly spiritual life, he had not attained it (Philippians 3). Like him, we strive to the upward call of Christ.

Living life in the spirit is a bit like living on the sea: waves of life and waves of flesh, ebb and flow. What does that mean for the woman with a call to lead? I believe it means that as we are called, we must do as the LORD leads, and we must do all that we can to ensure we are led of the Spirit. This is true for all Believers, but for women leaders, it is key to ensuring we are not deceived, we do not lead out of any sense of control or rivalry, and we depend fully on GOD.

My prayer for freedom and unity

I pray that women will be set free to witness according to their calling and that men will endorse this. I pray that there will be no glass ceiling but rather that all people are released to use their giftings, free from any man-made law or imposed assumptions. I pray that women will be “as Eve” in the garden and all men “as Adam” and we will all develop as children of GOD by the power of the Spirit and in the name of Jesus.

Amen.

Tags Freedom in Christ, identity of women, who is eve, women in ministry

Examining Biblical Scripture

The Real Identity of Jesus – Addendum

Post author By Dr Sarah Tun
Post date 30/06/2020
No Comments on The Real Identity of Jesus – Addendum

A few weeks ago, I wrote about the man Jesus in a post called, “The Real Identity of Jesus” ( https://laruspress.com/the-real-identity-of-jesus-is-jesus-man-or-god/ ).

Another’s teaching triggers my own thought

Recently, I was listening to the last teaching that Ravi Zacharias recorded before he died. He spoke about the temptation / testing of Jesus in the wilderness, after his forty days of fasting.

Have a look at Matthew Chapter 4 to consider…

As I was listening, a thought occurred to me: If Jesus were not a man, would Satan think he could tempt him? If Satan saw Jesus as GOD, then surely he would not try. Satan would not quote scripture to GOD — but he would to a man whom he was attempting to trick.

Jesus defeated Satan, quoting scripture, being of sound mind and purpose, linked to the Father in faith, truth, love and common will. Jesus was the son of GOD, only doing His will, but what does that mean?

History

Jesus came to earth as a baby, born of a virgin, fathered by the Holy Spirit of GOD. But he was flesh. He was a man. And in being a man, he defeated the sin of the first Adam, he defeated temptation of Satan, he died and rose again, defeating all of our sins.

I am not saying Jesus is not GOD. I am saying Jesus is a man.

Let us consider, pray and ask for GOD’s help to understand. As in John 16:13 it says, “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.”

Help us Father, to see you, to see Jesus – our beloved Yeshua, to see the Spirit, as you see, as you are, as you breathe and live and love us; allow us to see You.

In the precious name of Yeshua/Jesus,

Blessings and Amen.

Tags Jesus' Identity, who is jesus

Examining Biblical Scripture

Church Needs to Change: Part 1

Post author By Dr Sarah Tun
Post date 24/06/2020
No Comments on Church Needs to Change: Part 1

Climate change… and Church change

Humanity’s days have been changed by a health-scare of Biblical proportions. If the earth wants great restoration toward a more life-giving climate and landscape, its population must learn from the 12-week hiatus experienced around the globe as air polluting activity has been suspended. Manufacturing, industry, use of cars and haulage, airline activity: all these and more have largely been placed on hold, more or less for three months on rotation, beginning in China in January and transferring along the continental pathways until finally reaching South America, where it is rising to a peak as I write. Will this change our way of life permanently, and can we step back from the brink of a ruined earth as we back off from polluting lifestyles?

The church is a living organism which also needs new air…

Places of worship have also been closed and church services have been put on pause as society has been navigating the pandemic. Now churches can open (in England where I live). But if we in the body of Jesus/Yeshua want a full restoration of GOD’s reign in society, we need to be transformed, not only by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12) but also through the expression of our faith. For a vitally different Holy Spirit-inspired adaptation and transformation, we need change in our worship, our prayer and in our action.

But how and into what should the church be changed?

First comes recognition and surrender; then can come change. And with the Holy Spirit outpouring, anything is possible.

When the first century church met, they congregated in homes and shared their food (Acts 4). Today when we meet, by-and-large, we sit while listening to one person speak for a good length of time on some part of the Bible. We contemplate what’s said, perhaps praying before and/or afterward; we sing a bit and shake hands as we enter and leave. Some places have coffee and snacks following the service. We usually don’t know many of the other folks present, and nor do we take the time to build relationships with each and every person. Some places are more lively, others more serene; some people are deeply committed to the concept of church, while others remain more on the fringes. Many people live lives of quiet desperation though few of their counterparts in a congregation will know it.

I don’t think this is all GOD intends for His church. In fact, I’m certain it’s not!

I have a desire to worship the Father in Spirit and in truth (John 4:23-24), as Jesus teaches. I’ve had that desire for decades and I’m not the only one. But I do not believe it is going to happen unless we abandon everything we know about church and church service, and begin with a blank slate both individually and corporately.

This is our chance! Coronavirus, Covid-19 and the shutdown have given us much more time to spend with GOD. He has made room for change. And here’s what I’ve concluded:

In order for the church to minister effectively, for its people and for the outreach of the Gospel, it must change radically.

What is Church?

Today church is not what it was designed to be. Before I sound too negative, here’s why I say that:

The word church means two things. From the Greek translation of Biblical references in the New Testament, church is translated from two words:

Oikos = family

Ekklesia = sent out ones

There is no reference to a building, but to the human body (1 Corinthians 12) and to the body of believers aka church existing to serve.

So, once we recognise the word church doesn’t mean a physical structure of bricks and mortar, we can consider what it is meant to be: a family of sent out ones … sent out to serve those who are not in the family, so that they can discover GOD and the saving grace of His son for themselves, and to support the poor (Galatians 2:10), widows and orphans within (and external to) the church group (James 1:27). Remember, We will be recognised by our love for one another and for the Father and for the Son,

“A new commandment I give unto you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:34-35)

When we look at the fact that church isn’t brick and mortar, then what will we do with the brick and mortar buildings? Whether owned or rented, we do generally speaking, attend a weekly service in a building.

I once studied under a pastor who had a small congregation called Celebration Church. It was so-called because the pastor knew that was what a Sunday* morning was meant to do: celebrate Jesus Saviour — Yeshua Messiah.

Taking that on board, when we meet as a large group can it simply be “in celebration” of Jesus’ resurrection power? Shall we celebrate the Creator and thank Him for His creation? Can we earnestly seek the power of the Holy Spirit and surrender as we pray to receive?

In 1 Corinthians 14:26-32 Paul pleads with the congregation in Corinth to have some order, urging them to express their gifts but one at a time.

“… If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be two or at the most three, each in turn and let one interpret.” (vs 27)

Is this all there is?

How have we gone from being disorderly to virtually lifeless? Is this all there is? I don’t believe so. I think we barely scratch the surface. But if we let go and let GOD, He can lead us into celebration and allow the move of His Spirit.

Life in the Spirit

“Now the Lord is Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” (2 Corinthians 3:17) That would imply the converse is true: where there is no spirit, there is no liberty.

Some folks believe the gifts of GOD’s Spirit were only for the Apostles who knew Jesus personally. I don’t agree. But I do think that we have a long way to surrender before we can walk truly in the life, liberty and power of the Holy Spirit.

So, let us surrender

I don’t know what GOD’s church is going to look like. It will have something to do with a five-fold ministry (Ephesians 4:11), with elders and deacons thrown in. It won’t be a top down organisation and no one will be called “father” (Matthew 23:9).

But I don’t think it is intended that we know. Rather, as we yield ourselves to our GOD, prostrate and waiting, without chairs (except out of compassion for those with physical ailments in need of healing) and without sermons but rather walking in the fruits of the spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and with willing hearts to share, we will discover what church is meant to look like. And that, after two centuries of floundering, will be something to celebrate!

*Past posts I’ve written convey my attitude that Sabbath is Saturday and so is the day we ought to be congregating, but custom seems still to overrule.

Tags radical church, spiritual revival, true church, What is church

Examining Biblical Scripture Politics and Society today

Eve’s Calling: Perhaps the most important post I’ve ever written

Post author By Dr Sarah Tun
Post date 18/06/2020
2 Comments on Eve’s Calling: Perhaps the most important post I’ve ever written

Eve’s Calling

(I urge you to spend significant time on this one… better to have your Bible handy as you read this blog post!)

In the beginning

In Genesis 1 and 2, we read that as GOD created, He said, “it is good”. But when He saw that Adam was alone, it was “not good”. So he created Eve. Together they would subdue the earth (Genesis 1:26) Eve would be Adam’s helper, comparable to him…

“The LORD said, it is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” (Genesis 2:18)

…but then came the Fall and all that changed. Eve’s position has been misunderstood across all history, throughout the earth, ever since. Women have endured great misery, often times considered no more than chattel. Both men and women have suffered as a result, for when the role of women is misdirected, all lose.

When Jesus came to rescue us from our sin, included in that was a rescue from the denigration of women. Over and again, he ministered to women, surprising his disciples and enemies alike. John 4 is just one example where we read as he minsters to a woman at a well, and releases her to evangelise to her entire town.

In marriage

In our marriage, I have sought to be a help to my husband. Likewise, he has helped me. Our mutual support has not been as might be expected from a traditional interpretation of “helpmeet”, however. If a wife as helpmeet is meant to take instruction or guidance in order to do tasks my husband wants done, then I am not a good helpmeet. But if a helpmeet is to encourage her spouse to walk in his calling and to walk as Jesus would in faith, love, and peace, then I have walked according to my wifely purpose, aligned with my gifts and calling from GOD.

Godly Character:

I am a Watchman by calling, and I have been used by GOD to support my husband, pointing and confirming decisions which are worthy of GOD’s calling on him as a teacher of the Word, and to guard against those which are not. I have encouraged him to act or respond in love, rather than anger, frustration or fear. In other words, I have been used to help him to walk in the character of Christ. Lest I should misrepresent our relationship, he has done the same for me, and I owe much of my maturity and wisdom from being married to him. Iron does indeed sharpen iron (Proverbs 7:17) and God makes all things work together for good (Romans 8:28). Such has been the case in our marriage.

Networking:

Sometimes I have been a connection or link between my husband and those who have provided him teaching opportunities. GOD has connected me to people in ministry who would find his teaching a support to their ministry and who have endorsed him in his own.

In these two general ways, I have been a useful helpmeet to my husband, so that he may fulfil his calling. I have also had opportunities to explore my own calling as a Watchman, which my husband has endorsed. The combined overall result as we exercise our callings has been to offer support to the community of Believers, and work towards the building of GOD’s Kingdom.

Glass Ceiling:

I have, however, encountered some blockages and some setbacks, some (though not all) of which have been because I’m a woman. Some leaders believe women are not to lead men, siting scriptures in Ephesians 5 and 1 Corinthians 11. But there are other scriptures that contradict any interpretation that women are not to speak or to lead, for example in Acts 18 and Galatians 3. But most important, when we look at all of Jesus’ interaction with women while on earth, he respected them, raised them up, and gave them responsibilities where none was customary. So, for arguments’ sake, I’d say that any scripture that suggests women are not meant to lead is more than outweighed by scripture which endorses the capabilities and gifting of women, including women as leaders.

In the Garden of Eden

In Kenneth Hagin’s booklet, “The Origin and Operation of Demons” (Faith Library Publications, Rhema Bible Church, Kenneth Hagin Ministries Inc., Tulsa Oklahoma, 1978, p8) Hagin suggests that long before the creation of man, Satan was in the Garden of Eden. Indeed, it is true to say he fell to earth long before the earth’s creation, before time (Isaiah 14:7).

When Adam and Eve were in the garden, so too was Satan. Perhaps he was watching enviously as Adam and Eve worked harmoniously, together. Then, he tricked Eve, Adam disobeyed God, and the rest is history.

Why this matters

“God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”” (Genesis 1:28)

It is profoundly important to understand that Eve’s original calling to subdue the earth has been limited, confined and distorted since the Fall; this has been Satan’s intention.

There was a consequence to the Fall, which GOD outlines in Genesis 3:14-20. Just as the relationship between all humanity and GOD was damaged as a consequence of sin, so too was the relationship between man and woman. But these relationships should have been restored through salvation.

Since salvation restores relationship with GOD though Jesus, then logically, the curse of man and woman is also overcome through that salvation. However instead, many times it is (mis)understood that women are to submit to husbands but not men to their wives. The conclusion is therefore, that women are subordinate to men. While this is too HOT and complex a topic to explore in depth in a blog post, I’d like to point out my thesis, which is that women are meant to “subdue the earth”, just as are men, and so they are equal partners, just as they are equally saved and restored to the Father through Jesus the Son. Eve’s calling was to subdue the earth, alongside Adam, before the Fall. So restored to GOD, we are meant to work together. Spouses are subordinate to one another in all things — for example in the marriage relationship:

“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Ephesians 5:21) and “the husband should fulfil his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body but yields it to her husband. In the same way, the husband does not have authority over his own body but yields it to his wife.” (1 Corinthians 7:3-4)

GOD’s intention for man and woman

Helper was never intended to mean subordinate. Both Adam and Eve were to work in harmony. While Satan provoked the fall of mankind, he has also contorted the consequence of events in the Garden in society since. The moment when Eve was tempted and deceived by Satan has been misapplied by those in authority to explain why a woman cannot be relied upon to speak, to lead or to minister to others in her own right even today. This is tragic and has fed right into the will of the enemy. Imagine what could be achieved for the Kingdom of GOD, for example, if women and men worked in harmony, and each had the opportunity to fulfil their Call? Even though the Fall triggered the problems between men and women, Salvation should restore the original relationship and design for women’s true purpose and authority equal to that of men.

What does salvation imply?

Jesus’ salvation brings us all to equality, and we no longer need to bear the burdens of sin. Instead we are offered the life that was originally planned: walking in the liberty and unity that relationship with the Father brings. But are we — both male and female — living in freedom, or under punishment and condemnation? That is not GOD’s will but something Satan has perpetuated.

Paul states in Galatians, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.” (Gal 3:28-29)

GOD’s intention is that Jesus saves us and restores our relationship with GOD as it was planned from the beginning…. to pre-Fall status. We see in how Jesus related to and respected women, a model for Christian family and society, which unfortunately has not always been manifested as it should.

Are women equal in Jesus’ eyes?

If you look at the actions of Jesus, he surprised many in how he related to women. I’ve already mentioned John 4 and the woman at the well. Jesus overarched tradition by talking to her alone, and not only did he talk to her, but he was the catalyst for her evangelistic outreach to her whole community.

And what of the woman caught in adultery? (John 8) Jesus released her, entrusting her to “sin no more”.

We know of the woman who anointed Jesus and washed his feet with her hair (John 12). And Mary, who sat at Jesus’ feet, “studying” rather than working in the kitchen with Martha (Luke 10).

Jesus showed respect to women and also released them into ministry. Mary Magdalene was first to see him and she was the one to report his resurrection to the men (John 20). The list of Jesus’ encounters with women demonstrates his respect, appreciation and value towards them.

Eve’s Calling

Today, women are meant to be released into ministry, not hindered, and not contained only to help men. Eve was such a woman. She was called to subdue the earth. Sadly, she failed to detect Satan’s manipulation and she shared the forbidden fruit with Adam. For that the couple fell from GOD’s grace. But Jesus brings us back, both male and female, into GOD’s grace and forgiveness, when we repent.

Hallelujah, Jesus saves and restores us to the Father and sets us free to fulfil who we are and who we were created to be.

I pray that all people will experience the liberty of Christ Messiah and the wholeness of the Calling for which they have been saved.

Amen.

Tags Christian women equality, Equality of sexes, Eve and women, role of women in society

Examining Biblical Scripture

Exploring your gifting: hearing from GOD

Post author By Dr Sarah Tun
Post date 04/06/2020
4 Comments on Exploring your gifting: hearing from GOD

Exploring Your Gifting: Words during the Corona-season

“He that hath ears to hear, let him hear” (Matthew 11:15)

I often hear from God personally

Recently, I took part in an Aglow prayer meeting originating from Canada. Some of the words that were shared by those running it were words I’d already received from GOD and had been praying about. My response was like that from Psalm 133…. ‘How good it is when we dwell together in unity.’ When we hear the Father’s voice and then have confirmation from others, it is encouraging to know others are receiving similar messages that we have received when alone in our prayer closet.

One word that was confirmed:

We are called to prepare as the Bride (Matthew 25).

So, what shall we do with that?

Another thing I sense which is echoed by fellow believers:

There is a longing that the church body be changed by this virus… Many like me are saying we need more of the Holy Spirit — more intimacy with GOD; more intimacy as a family of brothers and sisters in Christ.

Shall we connect these messages together? If so, I sense something like — when we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we are being prepared as His bride.

So, what do you hear GOD saying?

Do you know you hear can from GOD? Have you had words tested and discovered others confirm what you’ve heard? Do you realise He promises to hear us, and He speaks to us?

“And if we know that he hears us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.” (1 John 5:15)

It’s so important that we share with others and are ‘in community’ with others, so that we can relate with one another what we are receiving from GOD. Isn’t it so encouraging when there is confirmation: as we test — and discover His voice, and grow in community with Him and with one another?

“…. many were gathered together praying.” (Acts 12:12b)

Too often we take declarations from others rather than seek our own

I’m encouraging you to ask GOD what He wants to reveal to you, and whether He wants you to share it with others.

Start to pray expecting to hear from Him.
Pray and then wait, “be still” and listen.
Write down any picture, scripture or guidance you receive.
Check the Bible to see that the Word confirms your message.
Share with others. Ask what are they receiving in their prayer time?

All of us need to deepen our prayer life. With lockdowns around the globe, we have the time. Let’s make the most of it. Let’s hear GOD and move forward at our hearing.

Once He’s spoken to us

We are to trust Him, obey and take action as He convicts us.

Yes and Amen.

Tags hearing from God, testing the word of GOD, words from GOD

Examining Biblical Scripture

The Real Identity of Jesus: Is Jesus Man or God?

Post author By Dr Sarah Tun
Post date 28/05/2020
4 Comments on The Real Identity of Jesus: Is Jesus Man or God?

What did Jesus do for us?

Jesus, God’s only begotten son, died on a cross, taking all our sin and shame, that we might believe in him and be saved.

That is the standard Evangelical stance on salvation by grace. There’s nothing wrong with it; it is absolutely true. But Jesus (the Greek translation of his Hebrew name, Yeshua) did more than die on a cross for us, not that that isn’t a monumental sacrifice already!

What Jesus did:

1. Jesus gave up his Godhead (Philippians 2:7-8)

2. Jesus came in human form (Matthew 1:8)

3. Jesus died on a cross, having never sinned (John 19:17; 2 Corinthians 5:21)

4. Jesus was resurrected but did not remain on earth. He returned to heaven and sent the Holy Spirit that all Believers might receive the indwelling of the Holy Spirit to lead, convict, empower and guide us (John 14:3; John 14:25-27).

When Jesus came as Messiah to his Jewish brethren, he came not only for them, but for Gentiles as well (Isaiah 49:6),

“Indeed, he [GOD] says, “It is too light a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob,

and to restore the preserved of Israel.

I will also give you as a light to the nations,

that you may be my salvation to the end of the earth.”

Who Jesus is:

In the beginning was the Word of GOD (John 1:1) and it is that part of GOD that became flesh and was born of a virgin, Mary, being fathered not by sinful man, descended from Adam, but fathered by the Holy Spirit of GOD (Genesis 1:2). He was not Jesus when he was in heaven, but he was named Jesus — Emmanuel, God with us — at his birth.

Some believe Jesus is God-man. Others believe he remained as God for, as a man, he could not have had the authority to offer salvation to mankind; he took the form of a man but was not a man. Still others believe he gave up his Godly person and became man once and for all. Our finite minds can’t get our heads round all concerning his divine nature, though as Believers we believe it. But personally, I fit into this latter category, believing that, as Jesus, he was and always will be, a man. If you believe I’m a heretic*, I can offer you two suggestions: either stop reading or allow me to show you scripture that says the Word of GOD (John 1:1) surrendered his Godhead (Philippians 2:7-8) and became a man. Never does it say he regained his Godhead after ascension but it does say that he returned to heaven and is seated at the right hand of GOD (1 Peter 3:22) and is the lamb (Revelation 5:13b). I believe he was — and is still a man. This is important in order to recognise fully the extent of his sacrifice and what he has given to us through that sacrifice.

Jesus did not give up his divinity. He was, is, and always will be divine. But he gave up his deity — a huge sacrifice, significant, even greater than dying on the cross. This is one point perhaps where our human minds can’t grasp the difference, but I’m convinced that somehow, there is a distinct difference between deity and divinity, and in that difference lies the sacrifice of the Godhead and the reality of what our inheritance and responsibility is In Christ. Jesus was and is God and yet, he gave up being God in order for our salvation.

Why is it important to recognise a man overcame sin and the devil?

Jesus asks us to believe and follow him. He has overcome sin and the devil. But just as Adam, a man, brought sin into the world, so must a man defeat sin. It is a legal matter. A man sinned and therefore another man must defeat sin. If Jesus was not a man, then GOD simply trumped the devil and that is not legally just.

How is this possible – and not heretical?

GOD is outside of time. So when Jesus said, “before Abraham was, I am” (John 8:58) it was completely true — but he was referring to a different time frame to the current time when he was addressing the Jewish leaders.

What was the consequence for the Word of GOD, known on earth as Jesus?

As the lamb of God — Father GOD being the God who sits on the throne — Jesus gave up his Godhead for our sake. Though the pain of the cross is a tremendous sacrifice, relinquishing his Godly authority to do only as the Father tells him, is even more huge! (John 5:19)

What is the consequence for us?

If Jesus walked the earth as a man, albeit sinless and perfect, what does that mean is possible for us?

Authority:

This is important because if we allow ourselves to believe Jesus became a man, we can recognise the authority he has given to us, his fellow men**, to overcome the evil one. We have the same authority that Jesus had while he walked the earth, when we believe and trust in him.

Responsibility:

“I’m only human” doesn’t wash any more as an excuse for our behaviour, when we realise GOD, through Jesus, has given us all that Jesus had. Just as Jesus has encouraged us to “be perfect” so it must be possible. This is not a reason to berate ourselves when we fail, but rather to encourage ourselves to carry on. Philippians 3:12-14 gives some of my favourite words from scripture,

“Not that I have already obtained, or am already made perfect; but I press on, that I may take hold of that for which also I was taken hold of by Christ Jesus. Brothers, I don’t regard myself as yet having taken hold, but one thing I do: forgetting the things which are behind, and stretching forward to the things which are before, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”

We press on, not because we are failures, but because Jesus (and Paul in the letter) encourages us to persevere, to look forward, to ‘keep on keeping on’.

Possibility:

Jesus said, “Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48)

Actually, we are without excuse: perfection is possible — albeit improbable as even Paul did not attain it (Philippians 3:12).

Only as Jesus is a man can he command us — with expectation — to be perfect.

Allow this to resonate:

If you can allow yourself to consider that Jesus was a man (divine – yes, son of GOD – yes, but a man as he walked the earth), you might begin to fathom more of the sacrifice he made for you, and more of the power and authority GOD has given you for good. This does not mean we are gods, but it means we are sons of GOD by inheritance, with all access to the power and authority given to Jesus, and access to the goodness that he was and is.

I find that inspiring and hopeful and amazing (and not heretical). Oh what love he has for us, what amazing love!

Our witness:

Jews and Muslims find it particular difficult, even offensive, to hear that God came to earth and died. But when we accurately explain GOD cannot die and did not die, but gave His son who was a man, that does not present the same stumbling block that the confused message that GOD or a GOD-man came and died.

John, Chapters 14 – 17:

As a final point, I urge you to read John 14 – 17 in contemplation. In this teaching and prayer, Jesus is both loving us and encouraging us as he speaks to his disciples before his arrest.

We are to abide in him as he abides in the Father. We are to receive the Holy Spirit as our Helper, who will glorify Jesus. As to his own identity, Jesus says, “I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you” (John 14:20) and “My Father is greater than I” (John 14:28b). By including us you may choose to contemplate how this is possible, if both Father and Son are GOD.

Scripture says in John 10, “I and the Father are one.” And yet in 1 Corinthians 15:28 it is written, “Now when all things are made subject to Him [GOD], then the Son Himself will also be subject to Him who put all things under Him, that GOD may be all in all.” Does scripture contradict? No. As a man, Jesus was subject to the Father and yet, he had the inheritance from his father to be as the Father is.

This is a part of the mystery, the unfathomable by the finite human mind. And yet, I am convinced, that recognising Jesus as a man does not contradict but in fact magnifies his sacrifice and our responsibility and authority in and through his salvation.

My prayer:

Every blessing to you as you contemplate, study scripture, and grow in the grace of GOD and the power of His Holy Spirit, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

* Nowhere in scripture does it say, “GOD the Father, GOD the Son, GOD the Holy Spirit”. It is a nice parallel structure that has been inserted into the doctrine of some churches. So I am not contradicting scripture when I say Jesus is a man.

** Men, man and mankind are all generic terms which include all humankind. This is not to exclude women nor to denigrate them to a lower status. It is simply linguistic custom, and I mean nothing further in using it.

Tags authority of Jesus, identity of Jesus, Jesus god, Jesus man

Politics and Society today Watchman on Alert BLOG

Coronavirus: Vaccine

Wikipedia

It’s not for me

I shan’t be taking the vaccine.

When I first heard about “Coronavirus” I thought, if there’s a vaccine, I won’t be taking it. I don’t like the prevalence of vaccines. When I was a child there were polio vaccines; praise GOD that polio was combatted.

But fast forward to modern times, where vaccines have become so prevalent. For a good while, I’ve been suspicious. After careful and prayerful consideration, I did have my son take the MMR (mumps/measles/rubella). Although I do think children are better off getting the childhood illnesses and overcoming them, society has asked parents to have children vaccinated to reduce the risk of contamination and epidemic.

Flu vaccines are not on my radar, not for me nor for my son. Illness isn’t friendly, but it is a natural part of the course of life. Fear of illness is not a good reason to vaccinate. Fear is not a good decision maker. What doesn’t harm us does make us stronger. And how many times does “Do not fear” occur in scripture? 365 at last count.

When it was confirmed the medical scientists are looking for a vaccine for Coronavirus I stated aloud: it won’t be something I’ll take… not for me, not for my son. (That doesn’t mean it isn’t for some; but for me, it is not.)

Then I heard on the “Alternative Media” from different sources that vaccines will contain stem cells from aborted babies. How can I endorse that? No, I certainly won’t be taking it.

Vaccine or Vaccine +

When I heard the vaccine may include a nano-chip as a means for buying and selling, and for tracking us, alarm bells began to ring — loudly. The jury is out as to whether that is true, but nevertheless, I won’t be taking the vaccine for coronavirus. Nor do I intend to take any vaccine that offers an easy means to buy or sell… whether it is separate or included in an anti-virus vaccine.

“…and that no one may buy or sell except one who has [the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.” (Rev 13:17)

Yes I’m confident we are in the End Times (Matthew 24; Revelations13). We don’t know when or how distant the return of Jesus is, but we have been forewarned about such matters as the Mark of the Beast; I shan’t be taking a vaccine into my hand which offers a means to buy and to sell.

Wake up Church

This is the time for those who are In Christ to wake up, get up and get going. Whether it’s for the war or for the wedding, we need to be ready. When the Lord comes, will our lamps be full of oil? (Matthew 25)

Holy Spirit

But the weapons of our warfare are not carnal. The Word of the LORD is the sword of the Spirit. Love is our greatest asset. The Holy Spirit anointing is our immunity, our protection, and our comfort.

So, we need to abide in Him, rest in His Word, wait for the power and presence of His anointing through the Holy Spirit.

Is it time to be ready? I believe it’s time.

Tags coronavirus vaccine

Examining Biblical Scripture

Expectancy

We must believe, as we wait for the Lord to bring His presence to us, that He will come.

He loves faith. He wants intimacy with us. We must believe He will come, and we must make room for him.

“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”(Hebrews 11:6)

Hallelujah. Today, I made room and He came. Oh, what wonderful peace His presence brings.

Those with faith, bless you. Those who know the presence, wonderful. To those with faith who have never experienced His presence, how amazing the faith you have:

“Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” (John 20:29)

“The Spirit of the LORD GOD is upon me…” (Isaiah 61:1) He calls us now to follow Him, to love Him, to experience the divine presence of Him. Will we make room?

“Trust in the LORD with ALL your heart and lean not on your understanding…” (Proverbs 3:5) He will come, He will abide when we abide. Give Him time, give him room and give Him your faith. He will come.

Romans 8

Exodus —

“He who waits upon the LORD will renew his strength… He will mount up with wings like eagles, he will run and not grow weary, he will walk and not faint.”

Hallelujah. Believe, Trust, Wait. He longs to be with you. Do you long to be with Him?

We who love Jesus and follow him, follow in faith. But he came that we might have life and more abundantly. Then he left us, to allow his power to rest within us. If we have faith but not the presence of the Lord, then we have faith in Jesus without his power. We need him: we need his presence. Oh long, how we yearn for you. Hallelujah, you come.

Tags faithfulness, wait upon the Lord

Examining Biblical Scripture

Why Jesus Prayed Three Times

Post author By Dr Sarah Tun
Post date 05/03/2020
No Comments on Why Jesus Prayed Three Times

Not my will but Thine be done: Why did Jesus pray three times?

Matthew 26:39-44 states,

“He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.”

“Then He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “What! Could you not watch with Me one hour? Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

“Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.” And He came and found them asleep again, for their eyes were heavy.

So He left them, went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words.”

Why did Jesus pray three times? Didn’t GOD hear him the first time? Didn’t Jesus have faith enough to trust Yehovah? Was he trying to persuade his father?

No. It was none of these things which prompted Jesus to repeat his prayer. I don’t believe so. Rather, he needed to work through the pain, and praying allowed him to do that until he was satisfied, at peace with the inevitable that was to come.

How many times do we need to pray?

When we earnestly seek the Father’s will, He gives us the heart and He gives us the words. Prayer is asking, pleading, praising, praying; prayer is coming to that place of peace, that place where “Thy will be done on earth as in heaven” is completed within us. That can require repeating.

It is not for Yehovah that we repeat, but for ourselves. We can take comfort that, even in the darkest hour, Jesus came through. But he, the Son of GOD and the Son of Man, had to work through — beyond temptation and fear –GOD’s will. He knew it, acknowledged it, believed it, accepted it from the start. But he worked it through until Shalom.

Bless each of us as we work through the difficult times. Paul said we are to pray without ceasing.

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.

Tags prayer for healing, prayer for peace, prayer without ceasing

Examining Biblical Scripture

Who is Lukewarm?

Who is Lukewarm?

“So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.” (Revelation 3:16)

No one ever thinks the harsh word of exhortation is for them… Surely, it is for some other person or some other church. But recently, my pastor spoke from the pulpit to our sincere and GOD-fearing church that we are luke warm.

And he is right. For if we do not fully surrender our lives, our prayers, our time, our hopes: to the fullness of GOD’s blessed Holy Spirit, then surely we are luke warm.

Where does the warmth come from?

Passion lies within us; the power and presence of Yehovah spring from the Holy Spirit. Jesus came to save sinners, but he left so that his Holy Spirit would come and indwell those same sinners who were repentant and faithful (John 14:25-27). Tongues of fire came upon those who were waiting for “something” to happen in the Upper Room after Jesus ascended to Heaven (see Acts 2:3).

The Presence of GOD

The Holy Spirit dwells within those who follow Jesus. But the Holy Spirit is not a passive “it”. He is a person, albeit without form, who is available to us to teach, comfort, convict, empower His children. He comes via His spirit to fill ours. As we surrender to the Father, He enables the Holy Spirit to fill us with His presence. It isn’t a one-off at Salvation. It isn’t once and only. But we need to keep going back to the Father for infilling, just as we need water to drink, food to eat, rest for revitalisation.

More of Him; less of me!

As I ask, yield, surrender, wait up on the LORD, He renews my strength (Isaiah 40:31) and fills me with His glorious, peaceful, and powerful presence.

But only if I allow will there be room for Him. So I rest in Him, I be still in Him, I trust in Him; I make time and space for Him.

Am I luke warm?

I don’t want to be luke warm. I would prefer to love Jesus and behave as though I do. So, I am choosing to move forward and I am choosing to take my call to speak to you dear reader:

May I encourage you to go beyond luke warm to hot for GOD’s Word, for His son and for His truth. The Holy Spirit will come as we submit fully to Him. Then, when we reach out to all those people who are within our sphere of influence, they will see a transformation; they will know that we take our faith very seriously, not only in word but also in deed.

We are called to fulfil our purpose in Christ Jesus — Messiah Yeshua. Hallelujah! But we cannot do it without Him, and so, as we rely on Him, so He will come.

“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.” (John 14:26)

“Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven him, either in this age or in the age to come.” (Matthew 12:32)

“I indeed baptised you with water, but He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit.” (Mark 1:8)

“… but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is subject to eternal condemnation” (Mark 3:29)

“But when they arrest you and deliver you up, do not worry beforehand, or premeditate what you will speak. But whatever is given you in that hour, speak that; for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit.” (Mark 13:11)

“John answered, saying to all, “I indeed baptise you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” (Luke 3:16)

Amen.

Tags baptism of Holy Spirit, indwelling of Holy Spirit, luke warm followers, presence of Holy Spirit

Examining Biblical Scripture

Let’s Get the Dates Right

Post author By Dr Sarah Tun
Post date 05/03/2020
No Comments on Let’s Get the Dates Right

Christianity, Christmas and Easter

Many of us who follow Jesus closely have turned away from calling ourselves Christians because we recognise that is a turn-off to a lot of people. The label was given by unbelievers in the first place (Acts 11:26) and brings to mind the Crusade slaughters of Muslims and Jews during the Medieval Ages.

If you follow your calendar and history closely, you’ve also begun to say, “Happy Resurrection Day” rather than refer to Easter, because you know that the possibly well-meaning but definitely anti-Semitic founding fathers took a pre-existing pagan festival and, drawing it away from the Jewish Passover (hence Jesus recognised as the Passover Lamb), they transformed it into the day to mark Jesus’ death and resurrection. It was intended to celebrate Jesus’ powerful testimony and ultimate sacrifice, much the way Constantin turned a pagan festival into a day to mark Jesus’ birth (aka Christmas) to get the pagans to turn to the Christian faith. But it wasn’t GOD’s calendar and the root was pagan.

Wow, that’s a mouthful of thought to turn culture and tradition onto its head.

So, let’s begin to get this right.

We don’t know the day of Jesus’ birth, except that it was most likely in the autumn, September or October, in line with the Feast of Tabernacles on the Jewish calendar. An analysis of Roman history would also assist in discovering when the taxes were issued for Judea in those years surrounding Jesus’ birth.

Jesus was Jewish. He, his family and his culture, celebrated all the festivals and practices of Judaism, based on GOD’s (aka Yehovah’s) Laws given to Moses in the desert. The Jewish calendar would be relevant to them as Jesus was growing up. It is relevant to GOD even now. Jesus categorically stated he did not come to replace but to fulfil the Law of Judaism (Matthew 5:17).

As for the day Jesus (aka Yeshua) was crucified, we know it was on the Passover (Matthew ) and then he rose 3 days (including that Passover night) later. Therefore, the day he was resurrected has nothing to do with Sunday. Ah, if that’s the case then the Lord’s day is not Sunday? Then why do we call Sunday the Lord’s Day? …. but we’ll come to that momentarily.

So, how do we follow the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus if it isn’t hinged to the Friday to Sunday timespan? We follow the Jewish calendar, if you think they are accurate.

Are the Jews accurate?

Yes. For passover, they count based on the setting of the sun and when the new moon comes into its place.

So, to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus accurately, based on a given date, we need to link it to Passover. Why? Because that’s Biblical.

What is Biblical?

The whole of the Evangelical faith in Jesus is based on the Bible, the Old and New Testaments (aka Covenants) believed to be given to Mankind through designated and anointed people who wrote the history, laws, poetry, prophetic words and anointing as given to them by Yehovah. For example, Moses, who wrote the first five books (collectively known as the Pentateuch), was not present “In the Beginning” and so the Father, Yehovah, dictated it to him.

If we want to be accurate and follow our Faith seriously, we need to strip out culture and tradition of fifteen hundred years and go back to what Jesus practiced and taught. If we want to reach people with the Truth of GOD then we need to be truthful and accurate ourselves. If we expect to reach Muslims and Jews, we need to return to the teaching Yehovah gave to us through the promises of Father Abraham, who is the founding Father of Jesus’ followers (including Gentiles, by adoption) as well as the Jews (both faithful and secular) and the Arabs. Abraham is father of both Muslims and Jews — they are cousins!

This is accurate and gives Believers’ testimony credibility. To be credible is to be powerful, anointed by the Holy Spirit.

So, let’s be accurate rather than sentimental

Sentiment practices Christmas and Easter as indoctrinated by the Church long after Jesus’ ministry, and long after the original Apostles and the Early Church members had died.

Accuracy respects GOD’s calendar and carries a weight and power that is incontestable.

Let’s look to the Father and follow His plan

Finally, as to the LORD’s day, it is man-made.

“On the seventh day, God rested from all his works.” (Genesis 2:2)

From the beginning of time, God created His Sabbath. The Jews called it Saturday. The Church turned it into Sunday to extract itself from the Christ-killing Jews. But the Jews started Christianity in the first place. If it hadn’t been for the disciples whom Jesus chose and for the early church He founded, there would be no Christianity. So calling the Jews Christ-killers is absurd. And extracting ourselves from the calendar of feasts and celebrations that GOD ordained is also stupid.

Let’s use the Sabbath that GOD created at the beginning of the world, and keep it holy, celebrating as He encourages, not as keeping of the Law, if you argue or resent that, but as an offering to the Father whom we love and as a blessing He intended for us.

Let’s completely rid ourselves of the inaccuracies of the man-made Church some fifteen hundred years ago, rather than pick and choose what we like and don’t like.

Let us represent the Truth of the Full Gospel message, to gentiles, to muslims and to Jews.

to the glory of Yehovah, for the sake of the Gospel message, and for mankind.

Tags Label Christian, Pagan roots of Christianity, Roots of Christmas, Roots of Easter

Examining Biblical Scripture

When comes the 1000 Years?

Post author By Dr Sarah Tun
Post date 26/01/2020
No Comments on When comes the 1000 Years?

Satan Bound

“Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, having the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. He laid hold of the dragon, that serpent of old, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years” (Revelation 20:1-2)

A close reading/re-reading of Revelation 20 gives me the notion of the following:

The 1000 year binding has already been, I believe, from approximately 500 to 1500 AD. Since then, the devil has been free to deceive the nations.

After the Romans made Christianity the state religion, there was much that went wrong within the Church of Jesus Christ. But the nation states — of the West at least — were all kingdoms ruled by God-fearing kings.

The Reformation, which made available the Word of GOD to non-clergy, gave a freedom not experienced previously and a Truth hitherto hidden from the time of Christendom. The truth could be studied, digested, practised, no longer necessarily under the interpretation or influence of scholars in power. It was a time of revelation, enlightenment, study and truth.

Satan Loosed

But as the Word of GOD became available to the common man, so too did Satan become free to confuse and confound.

“Now when the thousand years have expired, Satan will be released from his prison and will go out to deceive the nations which are in the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle, whose number is as the sand of the sea.” (Revelation 20:7)

Although there has always been war, it is since 1500 that war has become more sophisticated: nation state against nation state, conflict arising across vast distances and with increased levels of violence and destruction. War culminated in World War I (the Great War to end all wars — such a major deception) and World War II (the epitome of anti-Semitism with the most sophisticated attempt to exterminate the Jews). To this day, Satan continues to confuse, divert, oppress and destroy humanity, not only physically but mentally and emotionally as well.

End of the Church Age

And so, I believe we are now at the end of the Church Age. Faith has dwindled. Man is waiting, whether he knows it or not, for the final war: the fire that destroys.

“And fire came down from God out of heaven and devoured them. The devil, who deceived them, was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone where the beast and the false prophet are. And they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.” (Revelation 20:9b-10)

Once Satan is cast out forevermore, a new heaven and a new earth will be instated. I consider they are not necessarily new physical places, but our heaven and earth refreshed, free of evil, and with one king in the character of Jesus. He rules and reigns, and Satan, the beast and false prophet are no more.

Judgment

“And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books.” (Revelation 20:12)

There will be a judgment toward those who have never accepted Jesus. It will, I believe, include those who attest to know him but whom he does not recognise (Matthew 7:23). There are wheat and tares (Matthew 13:24); there are ones who have heard the Word but who’s “soil” fell on shallow or rocky ground (Mark 4:3-8).

Reigning with Jesus

And yet, “Hallelujah,” there will be those who have already been ruling and reigning with him for a thousand years. These are they who are the first resurrection, who were once martyred for Jesus’ name and who have been raised from the dead: “Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years.” (Revelation 20:4b)

And there are also those who’s names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, who have known Jesus but who either died naturally, not as martyrs. This is the Second Resurrection.

And what of those who are alive at the Second Coming of Jesus/Yeshua, the Messiah? I believe those written in the Lamb’s Book of Life will join the host. There will be no more grief or evil in the new Age as, “God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:4)

And all who live will attest to the name of the Prince of Peace. Hallelujah and Amen.

Tags End of Church Age, End Times, first resurrection, satan bound, Second Coming

Hebraic Roots: Israel and Jewish Culture

Oh, How Little we Gentiles Know

Post author By Dr Sarah Tun
Post date 26/01/2020
5 Comments on Oh, How Little we Gentiles Know

Gentiles have lost so much by not embracing the G-D of the Hebrews. I am including Christian Gentiles. When we Christians threw out the Jews and their traditions from the Early Church, we also discarded their Yehovah-given wisdom and insights.

The Church of Yeshua began with 12 Jews, then 70, then 120 and many more. Jesus came to the lost sheep of Israel and he came to fulfil — not to replace — the Law. Generously, the GOD of the Hebrews invited Gentiles into the Fold after the resurrection. The Gentiles, such as the woman who was willing to settle for Jesus’ crumbs, and later those who were welcomed by Peter (through Simon the Tanner at Joppa), embraced Jewish people and culture. In fact, Paul had to instruct Galatians not to go beyond what was necessary to follow Jesus: faith and holy conduct.

But foolishly, the Gentiles eventually took over the Church of Jesus; the pendulum swung to over-rule Jewish input completely. Consequently, we lost truths, the alignment with GOD’s time table, and ultimately, the Jews themselves. The Gentiles — in their anti-semitic bias, lost wisdom. Not only through Catholicism was this lost, for if only through that we’d have regained it at the Reformation (1500’s). But we have not regained it, not at all, not even after all these centuries.

Rousseau grappled with this in 1762 in Emile:

“Oh Man! Seek no further for the author of evil; thou art he. There is no evil but the evil you do or the evil you suffer, and both come from yourself. Evil in general can only spring from disorder, and in the order of the world, I find a never-failing system. Evil in particular exists only in the end of those who experience it; and this feeling is not the gift of nature, but the work of man himself….”

How alike is this to Paul in Romans 7:18:

“For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good, I do not find.”

Praise GOD that through faith and with the help of the Holy Spirit, all things are possible. Evil can be overcome. Paul encourages in Ephesians 3:17-19,

“… that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height — to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of GOD.”

All the fullness of GOD, I purport, rests in the knowledge given to the Jewish people from the times of Abraham and Moses. All the fullness of GOD comes through the worship of Him at His feasts times and in His holy ways.

Oh, but how much have we Gentiles lost? The Jews still have that which we lost when we separated from the Jewish Believers. We can’t pinch it from them now; but we can reclaim a great deal if we recognise their traditions hold many keys for us, just as we hold keys for them as they await their Messiah.

We are not called to revert or convert to Judaism, but we are called to,“Love the LORD your GOD with all your heart, soul, mind and strength…”

When, in obedience and love, we remember that Jesus was crucified, not at Easter but during the holy festival of Passover, which GOD designed from centuries before to mark what would be the death and resurrection of His son, Saviour and Messiah, when we acknowledge and celebrate the truth of who the Creator of the Universe is, then we gain an insight and wisdom that He gave to the Jewish people, His chosen ones, all that time ago.

It’s all good for our learning

Irrespective of what we’ve lost we can regain. Nevertheless, we “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God….” (Philippians 4:4)

GOD loves us, comforts us, heals and delivers us.

My prayer today is, “May the Gentile Believers begin to embrace the truths of our Jewish roots, and may the Jewish people forgive our ignorance and trust those who follow Yeshua to love them and regard them as our big brothers. And one day, may all those who seek — both Jew and Gentile — find the Messiah promised by Jehovah G-D so long ago, Amen.”

Tags early church, Jewish Roots

Examining Biblical Scripture

Living in the FULLNESS of GOD

Post author By Sarah Tun
Post date 09/01/2020
No Comments on Living in the FULLNESS of GOD

There’s SO MUCH More!

It’s 2020. It’s a new decade. Let’s live it with full vision….

Recently, I was sitting in a Bible School session which my hubby runs. We were investigating Ephesians Chapter 3 (after two previous sessions looked at Ephesians Chapters 1, 2).

The session ran for 80 minutes so I won’t capture it all here. And anyway, it was exploratory and interactive, so the dynamics would be lost. But here in a nutshell is the point Alan led the group to…

We are not tapping into the fullness — in any way, shape or form — of what GOD has for us.

The Powerful Sun

The Jewish/Hebrew people have characteristically given so much innovation, creativity, technology, scientific discover to the world. Some has been for good, some destructive, but all based on genius. Their contribution and award is disproportionate to their relatively tiny population, and yet, they keep investigating, exploring, inventing, creating and giving. That is part of the covenanted promise of GOD to His people of Israel, both historically and currently.

And we too, as followers of Jesus, have that same inheritance, albeit only through the power of the Holy Spirit.

We aren’t even scraping the surface of the ingenuity and blessing GOD has given to us. And we need to acquire it, now, for these end days and times.

…. “to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of GOD…” (Ephesians 3:19)

The Father has given to us and yet we are not acquiring the fullness. It comes through the Holy Spirit and yet many of us reject the move of the Holy Spirit in these days because they do not see it.

Yet, “faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1)

In Genesis, the Father promises to Abraham as many heirs as the stars in the sky. And in Genesis 27, Isaac passes on all the blessing of Abraham and Isaac to Jacob.

We have inherited the blessings of GOD’s people the Jews. We are a part of the heirs of Abraham. We have received the Holy Spirit as we confessed our sins and committed our lives to Jesus. He is our helper, our comforter. Without him, we are not saved. But with him, we can do so much more, discover so much more, understand so much more, invent so much more, contribute so much more than we are currently.

At the end of the study of Ephesians Chapter 3, I suddenly had an “ah ha” moment. It isn’t provable but it is profound, if it is correct….

Jesus, the head of the church, is waiting for his bride, the church. We are nowhere near ready. What if, he is simply waiting for us… some of us, any of us, to be ready: Clothed in the Spirit and living and working in his power, might, authority, wisdom and gifting… before he can return.

It isn’t by power or might that we learn, grown and give, but by his Spirit. Let us put on the Spirit of Christ then, let us be his bride, clothed in his righteousness but fully surrendered, fully serving, living in the total and complete fullness of GOD.

Hallelujah, come LORD Jesus.

But first, there is so much more we need to receive. Let us be willing to lay down our lives totally and completely, to be the temple of the Holy Spirit, to walk in his way, and to “be filled with all the fullness of GOD.”

Amen

Tags bride of Christ, fullness of GOD, infilling of Holy Spirit, Power of the Holy Spirit, remnant, Second Coming

Politics and Society today Reflections and Poetry Watchman on Alert BLOG

Nearing the End of the Earth: a reflective plea

Post author By Sarah Tun
Post date 12/12/2019
2 Comments on Nearing the End of the Earth: a reflective plea

I Despair at Earth’s current condition

How near are we to the end of the lifespan of this planet Earth? Too near, too near, and I am grieving.

“We’ve blown it” a friend said to me recently.

Indeed we have. The poles are melting. For me, that is the most clear sign of the destruction. Continents of ice are melting into oblivion….

Doom at our doorstep

It seems there’s little we can do now — It seems that anything we attempt is only putting a band-aid on the disaster we’ve created. The beauty of this planet is fading, dying by mankind’s hand. For example, koala’s are in limited number, elephant tusks are on the black market; innocent, majestic creatures are dying by our hands. It’s for money, for farming expansion, for sport, not borne out of human necessity.

Sound glum? Yes, I’m glum. We once had beauty; that is now fading. Shall we enjoy, rescue what we can, pray and share with others the hope set before us.… Jesus is the truth and the answer to life’s sorrow. But for the sake of our responsibility toward Earth, is that all we can do?

For “the earth is the Lord’s, and all its fullness.” (1 Corinthians 10:26) Were we not called to celebrate, enjoy, look after the beauty and splendour of GOD’s creation?

Yes. But we did not.

I am not an extinction rebellion advocate. I am not a Green Party supporter. I am not a “leftie”. I’m not saying those are good or bad stances; they just aren’t me. But I am sure humanity has destroyed a beautiful gift and I despair that there is little hope in turning back.

Politics

The politicians talk about carbon-neutral. By the time we reach carbon neutrality — the UK projects 2050 — at the rate of destruction and melting, we won’t have a reason to bother. Oh, how we’ve taken something so precious for granted and are reaping the result: an earth so perfect in its creation, groans at our abuse.

How must the LORD sense the tragedy!

What is relevant to the Christian

Why does the earth matter if Jesus is returning soon? Because Jesus spoke and created the earth for us to look after, and we’ve failed him. As one song puts it,

“… (his) hands that flung stars into space…” (Graham Kendrick)

Hope

Yes, there will be a New Heaven and a New Earth, but how selfish we are who know Jesus to think we can escape the horrendous damage we’ve been a part of, and that we should rejoice. Yes, what Jesus has done for us is WONDERFUL. But have we not all played our part in the destruction of earth… with our cars, our holidays abroad, our hairspray and our litter.

GOD created man to look after the earth. Do we see what man has done in the last century alone?

Loving GOD and loving His earth go hand-in-hand. Should we love one of His creation less? No, we are called to love one another. How much too, are we called to love and care for the very earth He created, put mankind upon and told us to look after it.

“Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” (Genesis 1:26)

What shall we do?

I don’t know. Pray certainly! But I don’t know what else I’m going to do. I’ve only just realised how important it is that I do something. I’ve asked the LORD, “Is there more I can do than recycle?” For now, His response seems to be for me to post these thoughts and pray.

SO this I am doing. Such small things. Such a huge problem.

So little time.

Tags earth destruction, man's duty to earth

Politics and Society today Watchman on Alert BLOG

Mental Health Today: Was King Solomon Depressive?

Post author By Sarah Tun
Post date 15/11/2019
4 Comments on Mental Health Today: Was King Solomon Depressive?

I read Ecclesiastes with some familiarity

It’s a book I’ve read often, and Chapter 3: A Time for Every Season is popular with many people. But Chapter 2 which precedes it is what I dwell on today.

I ask myself, was Solomon depressed when he wrote it? He must have been. To have all the wisdom and wealth in the world, and to start a book with,

“The words of the Teacher, son of David, king in Jerusalem:

“Meaningless! Meaningless!”
says the Teacher.
“Utterly meaningless!
Everything is meaningless.” (Ecc Chapter 1:1-2 NIV)

and to come to this stark conclusion, I think he must have been at a low point in his grand life when he wrote Ecclesiastes.

Solomon’s focus in Chapter 2 is on the futility of effort, as legacy does not hold any guarantees of sustaining the result of one’s effort; to enjoy one’s labour is worthwhile, but with no forward expectations.

“I hated all the things I had toiled for under the sun, because I must leave them to the one who comes after me. And who knows whether that person will be wise or foolish?” (Ecc 2:18-19a NIV)

Solomon has strayed rather than prayed; if he had prayed to GOD, he would know who would follow after him, or be at peace with whatever GOD would bring.

“Nothing is better for a man than that he should eat and drink, and that his soul should enjoy good in his labor. This also, I saw, was from the hand of God.” (Ecc 2:24 NKJV)

He has not lost faith in GOD, but he has lost relationship. He speaks not of the spirit, but of the soul.* This, I think, is the key to his depression.

He is alone, ruminating in his mind, rather than searching GOD and His spirit. Truly, he is wise and correct to say, ‘everything is meaningless’, for without GOD, without relationship to Him, Solomon is truly alone — with his wealth, his wives, his children, yet he is isolated and alone.

from Peter Paul Rubins’ The Judgment of Solomon

Today in our society, depression and lack of mental health is on the rise, particularly amongst the youth

Today, we live in a society where GOD has been removed from schools, from health care, from society in the main. The result?

To Solomon, who had wealth, fame and power, came depression. His success became meaningless to him. Today, though higher education, prosperity and independence have become increasingly available to young adults, they have proven meaningless to the happiness of many. Just as Solomon became isolated from GOD, likewise today, our youth grow up without GOD. Our relatively prosperous society too, on the whole, suffers from a lack of the Joy of the LORD, who provides humanity with its true source of strength (Nehemiah 8:10) and purpose.

“To know GOD and to make Him known” was the key slogan behind my discipleship training course, provided through a YWAM-trained pastor when I was a young woman. How I wish (and pray), that more Believers and society on the whole, would discover this key to a truly fulfilling life.

“For God gives wisdom and knowledge and joy to a man who is good in His sight;” (Ecc 2:26a NKJV

*Yes, it is true that in the Old Testament man did not receive the Spirit of GOD as we do through Jesus Christ. But David, Solomon’s father, often spoke of the Spirit. For example, Psalm 139:7 says, “Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?”

Note: Images from www.Lambsongs.co.nz and Peter Paul Rubins’ Judgment of Solomon, available at www.smk.dk

Tags depression, King Solomon's Depression, mental health, Vanity and Depression

Examining Biblical Scripture

PRAYER: Our Only Answer

PRAYER IS THE ONLY ANSWER

“If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

(1 Chron 7:14)

We who are concerned for our nations — any including the UK, Canada or the USA — need to be praying. We have just completed an election in Canada with a weak minority Liberal government being elected; the UK will go to the polls again on the 12th December, and the US is only a year away from their next presidential election (with the current president facing the threat of Impeachment). Nations around the world are in turmoil, and many are divided between one extreme and another.

There are those who are GOD’s chosen leaders; yet, there are those who speak good promises but will reap a storm.

If you watch this video, you can take encouragement:

BUT just as this prophetic voice says we are to pray, so does GOD’s Word. We cannot and must not take for granted the results of our elections. For though GOD is sovereign, He calls us to pray.

Father, deliver us from evil and give us the government not that we may deserve, but that will preserve freedom to express our faith in Jesus, that will ensure Your Chosen People the Jews are supported, and that Your will be done so that our nations will be sheep nations and not goat nations, when Jesus comes to judge. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

“When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. (Revelations 11:18)

May the earth will be sprinkled with the joy of the LORD.

“For the earth will be filled With the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, As the waters cover the sea.” (Habakkuk 2:14)

Examining Biblical Scripture

Law and Grace

Law and Grace – not law versus grace

“They desired only that we should remember the poor, the very thing which I also was eager to do.” Galatians 2:10

What are we Gentiles to do with the history we receive from the Jews and the freedom we gain in Yeshua/Jesus?

Law versus Grace has reared its head in recent days, as Hebraic Roots are (re)discovered for those of us who walk in the light of Jesus’/Yeshua’s salvation.

The principle of Faith without Works is dead (James) competes with We are Saved by Grace, not of Works lest any man should boast (Ephesians). Both are true! But how?

“I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.” Galatians 5:16-18 has many facets. Recently, I wrote about fasting as regards the flesh and Spirit. Now, I’ll address the aspect of the Law of GOD — named Yehovah* — versus Grace of GOD.

It is my understanding and experience, that Gentiles are saved by the grace of GOD and not by walking in the Law of Moses. Jesus came to fulfil the law, and as the sacrificial lamb of GOD that takes away the sins of the world through faith in him (John 1:29), he delivers all who believe and follow him, just as the Hebrews were delivered from Egypt the night they put the blood of the sacrificial lamb on their door posts so that the angel of death would pass over them (Exodus 12:21).

BUT it is also my belief that GOD gave us the feasts to celebrate Him. And He gave us the unconditional love and blessings of the covenants of Adam, Noah and Abraham before the conditional covenant with Moses, the latter of which Jesus fulfils (Matthew 5:17). No, we do not need to keep any law except that which is written on our hearts (Romans 2:15) in love for one another (John 13:34), but in love for GOD I choose to honour His Sabbath and I recognise his feasts, not in order to receive salvation, but in order to give back to Him a fraction of what he’s given me.

We are saved by GOD’s grace and mercy through the work of Jesus/Yeshua. But we can honour Him by celebrating in the ways that He has provided for us, whether we are Jew or Gentile, for there is neither in the Kingdom of GOD (Galatians 3:28).

If you meditate on what I’ve written above, and give due consideration to it, I’m certain you will find your way forward by the Spirit of GOD, to balance tradition (which is empty) with revelation (which is Yehovah’s way of leading and guiding us).

“But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.” (1 Peter 5:10)

*See Nehemiah Gordon’s research into the various texts which give us the obscure vowels to the YHVH name we are familiar with in Biblical text, to complete His name correctly.

Tags truth of salvation

Examining Biblical Scripture

Malachi

Malachi

The son of Righteousness shall

arise

with healing

in His wings.

And so the prophets finish

But your pain is not resolved

and still you do not surrender.

Your pain of decades — centuries

resounds

through your messengers

your anger, rebuke,

forgiveness

goes on and on

— and on.

And so you give

and forgive

again

yet wait for

my return

and wait

again.

And still you send one more

to warn

and still you send

one more

and still you send

your son

to cover.

Grief begets grief

grief begets grief

and still you send

forgive

and still —

Asking only

faithfulness.

Tags searching for truth