The Commands of Christ

l The Commands of Christ Jesus i Omega Ministries

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

Romans 8:2 Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

Galatians 6:2

B

y looking at Jesus’ life and words we see the fulfilment of the Father’s saving love towards the lost race of Adam and Eve. But how well do we as modern disciples really know the Law of Christ, the Law of the Spirit?

trials, reigning in this life, whilst being prepared for the life to come.

It’s radical, it’s challenging, but by the grace given it is entirely possible, ‘for you shall know the truth and it will make you free!’ (John 8:32) This book also aims to reveal how to both enter the heavenly Kingdom and then live it today through obeying Christ’s Although Paul tell us that we are no longer under the ordinances of the Law commands. It’s also a useful manual for those who have known Christ as of Moses, does this mean we are not under any Law at all? This book argues their Lord for many years, but as yet that we are told to uphold the Father’s may not have fully realised ALL their Lord’s commands. The commands commands as Jesus Christ himself are categorised according to the delivered them to us. As disciples it’s Hebrew understanding of ‘Mitzvah’, therefore essential that we know the ‘Piqqudim’, ‘Esar’ and ‘Choq’ four full extent of the commands given by types that commands can take (p15).

Jesus, the head of the church. These These teachings reveal the action of commands are only effective as we co-operate with his Holy Spirit to obey faith and the blessings for obedience and any consequences for disobedience them. By these we can overcome the deceitfulness of sin, Satan and earth’s and there are some.

2 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

Contents SECTION

KJV BIBLE REF

PAGE

Introduction 7 Commands (c) - precepts (p) - decrees (d) - statutes (s) 15 1. Repent (c) Matt 4:17 17 2.Ye must be born again (c) John 3:7 18 3. Follow me (c) Matt 4:19 19 4. Rejoice and be glad (s) Matt 5:11-12 19 5.Ye are the salt of the earth (d) Matt 5:13 20 6.Ye are the light of the world (d) Matt 5:14-15 21 7. Let your light shine before men (p) Matt 5:16 21 8. Do not think I have come to abolish the Law (d) Matt 5:17 22 9. Till heaven and earth pass (d) Matt 5:19 22 10. Except your righteousness exceed the Pharisees (s) Matt 5:20 23 11. Whoever is angry with his brother (s) Matt 5:21-22 23 12. Be reconciled to thy brother (p) Matt 5:23-24 24 13. Agree with thine adversary quickly (s) Matt 5:25 24 14. Whosoever looketh on a woman to lust (c) Matt 5:29-30 25 15. Whosoever shall put away his wife (s) Matt 19:9 25 16. Do not swear at all (p) Matt 5:34-37 26 17. Resist not evil (p) Matt 5:38-39 26 18. Let him have thy cloak also (p) Matt 5:40 27 19. Go with him twain (p) Matt 5:41 27 20. Give to him that asks (p) Matt 5:42 28 21. Turn not thou away (p) Matt 5:43 28 22. Love your enemies (p) Matt 5:44-45 28 23. Be ye perfect (p) Matt 5:48 29 24. Do not your alms before men (s) Matt 6:1 29 25. Pray to thy Father which is in secret (s) Matt 6:5-7 30 26. After this manner therefore pray (p) Matt 6:9-13 30 27. Forgive trespasses (s) Matt 6:14-15 31 28. When you fast, be not, as the hypocrites (s) Matt 6:16 31 29. Lay not up for yourselves treasures on earth (p) Matt 6:19-21 32 30. No man can serve two masters (d) Matt 6:24 33 31. Take no thought for your life (p) Matt 6:25-26 34 32. Seek first his Kingdom, and his righteousness (c) Matt 6:33 34 omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

3

33. Do not worry about tomorrow (c) 34. Judge not, that ye be not judged (s) 35. First cast out the beam (s) 36. Give not that which is holy to the dogs (p) 37. Ask, Seek, and Knock (s) 38. Do ye even so to them (p) 39. Enter ye in at the strait gate (c) 40. Watch out for false prophets (p) 41. Freely you have received, freely give (p) 42. Go and learn what this means (p) 43. Suffer little children to come unto me (p) 44. Take heed that ye despise not (p) 45. Come unto me, all ye that labour (s) 46. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me (s) 47. Be on your guard (s) 48. Let him deny himself, and take up his cross (p) 49. If thy brother shall trespass against thee (p) 50. Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth (s) 51. If two of you shall agree on earth (d) 52. Seventy times seven (p) 53. Forbid them not, to come unto me (p) 54. Go and sell that thou hast (s) 55. It shall not be so among you (c) 56. My house will be called a house of prayer (d) 57. Render therefore unto Caesar (p) 58. Do not ye after their works (p) 59. Be not ye called Rabbi (c) 60. And call no man your father (c) 61. Neither be ye called masters (c) 62. Whosoever shall exalt himself (d) 63. Cleanse first that which is within (p) 64. Take heed that no man deceive you (p) 65. Learn a parable of the fig tree (p) 66. Be ye also ready (c) 67. Take, eat; this is my body (c) 68. Drink ye all of it (c) 69. Tarry ye here and watch with me (p) 70. Watch and pray (p) 4 The Commands of Christ

o

Matt 6:34 35 Matt 7:1-2 35 Matt 7:5 35 Matt 7:6 35 Matt 7:7 36 Matt 7:12 36 Matt 7:13-14 37 Matt 7:15-20 37 Matt 10:1-8 38 Matt 9:13 38 Luke 18:15-17 38 Matt 18:10 39 Matt 11:28 39 Matt 11:29 40 Matt 16:6 40 Matt 16:24 41 Matt 18:15-17 41 Matt 18:18 42 Matt 18:19 42 Matt 18:21-22 43 Matt 19:14-15 43 Matt 19:21 43 Matt 20:26 44 Matt 21:13 44 Matt 22:21 45 Matt 23:1-4 45 Matt 23:8 46 Matt 23:9 46 Matt 23:10 46 Matt 23:12 47 Matt 23:25-26 47 Matt 24:4 48 Matt 24:32-33 48 Matt 24:44 48 Matt 26:26 49 Matt 26:27-28 49 Matt 26:38-39 49 Matt 26:41 50 omega-ministries.org

71. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations (c) 72. Abide in Me and I in you (s) 73. Forbid him not (p) 74. Have Faith in God (p) 75. Believe that ye receive (p) 76. Have salt in yourselves (c) 77. Fear not; thou shalt catch men (d) 78. In those days they will fast (d) 79. Condemn not and you shall not be condemned (s) 80. Give, and it shall be given unto you (s) 81. Take heed therefore how ye hear (s) 82. Take nothing for the journey (p) 83. There abide and thence depart (s) 84.You give them something to eat (p) 85. Shake off the very dust (p) 86. Pray ye the Lord of the harvest (p) 87. Go your ways (p) 88. Carry neither purse, nor scrip (p) 89. First say, Peace be to this house (p) 90. In the same house remain, eating and drinking (p) 91. Go not from house to house (p) 92. Eat such things as are set before you (p) 93. Heal the sick that are therein (p) 94. Go your ways out into the streets (p) 95. It shall be more tolerable in that day (d) 96. Rejoice that your names are in heaven (p) 97. I give unto you power to tread on serpents (d) 98. Go and do thou likewise (p) 99. Take heed that the light in thee be not darkness (p) 100. Give alms of such things as ye have (s) 101. Beware the leaven of the Pharisees (p) 102. Do not be afraid of them that kill (p) 103. I say unto you, Fear him (p) 104. Take ye no thought how ye shall answer (p) 105. Take heed, and beware of covetousness (p) 106. Fear not, little flock (p) 107. Provide yourselves bags which wax not old (s) omega-ministries.org

o

Matt 28:19-20 50 John 15:4 51 Mark 9:38-40 51 Mark 11:22-23 51 Mark 11:24 52 Mark 9:50 52 Luke 5:10 53 Luke 5:35 53 Luke 6:37 54 Luke 6:38 54 Luke 8:18 55 Luke 9:3 55 Luke 9:4 56 Luke 9:12-13 56 Luke 9:5 57 Luke 10:2 57 Luke 10:3 57 Luke 10:4 58 Luke 10:5-6 58 Luke 10:7a 58 Luke 10:7b 59 Luke 10:8 59 Luke 10:9 59 Luke 10:10-11 59 Luke 10:12 60 Luke 10:12 60 Luke 10:19 60 Luke 10:37 61 Luke 11:35 61 Luke 11:39-41 61 Luke 12:1 62 Luke 12:4 62 Luke 12:5-7 62 Luke 12:11-12 63 Luke 12:15 63 Luke 12:32 63 Luke 12:33 64

The Commands of Christ

5

108. Let your loins be girded about (s) 109. Be ye therefore ready (p) 110. Except ye repent (s) 111. Go and sit down in the lowest room (p) 112. Call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind (s) 113. If any man come to me (d) 114. Whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all (d) 115. He that hath ears to hear (p) 116. Make for yourselves friends (s) 117. If your brother sins (p) 118. Say, we are unprofitable servants (p) 119. The kingdom cometh not with observation (d) 120. Go not after them, nor follow them (p) 121. Hear what the unjust judge saith (p) 122. Suffer little children to come unto me (p) 123. Every one which hath shall be given (d) 124. Beware of the scribes (p) 125. Take heed to yourselves (p) 126. Watch ye therefore (s) 127. This do in remembrance of me (c) 128. Weep not for me (d) 129. Love each other as I have loved you (c) 130. Wash one another’s feet (c) 131. Keep my commandments (p) 132. For the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath day (d) 133.Ye shall receive power (d)

6 The Commands of Christ

o

Luke 12:35-36 64 Luke 12:40 64 Luke 13:2-3 64 Luke 14:10 65 Luke 14:12-14 65 Luke 14:26 65 Luke 14:33 66 Luke 14:35b 66 Luke 16:9-12 66 Luke 17:1-3 67 Luke 17:10 67 Luke 17:20-21 67 Luke 17:22-25 68 Luke 18:6-8 68 Luke 18:15-17 68 Luke 19:26-27 69 Luke 20:45-47 69 Luke 21:34-35 70 Luke 21:36 70 Luke 22:19-20 70 Luke 23:28 71 John 15:12 71 John 13:14 72 John 14:15 72 Matt 12:8 72 Acts 1:7 73

omega-ministries.org

Introduction

unrecoverable fall from grace (into legalism), losing his peace with God, thus causing spiritual separation, he inspired Scriptures record blindness and death. It is the separation God’s holy commandments from God’s tree of life that leads to the (instructions) given to man eventual death of their physical body. since the beginning of creation. Even It is the association with that evil angel though mankind ‘fell from grace’ he that causes God’s curse of spiritual can still choose to turn from evil blindness and eternal death (second (rebellion) and know the creators death). The evil ‘spirit’ of sin and death abundant life (obedience). Before the was now reigning in Adam and Eve, fall Adam and Eve were given just one thus usurping the original authority simple command to keep, a command given to Adam by God. He had lost designed to protect them from his spiritual protection (covering) death, “But of the tree of the knowledge through disobedience, by failing to of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of restrain his wife, following her lead it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof in obeying fleshly desires inspired by thou shalt surely die.” (Gen 2:17). that crafty serpent. Satan now had spiritual authority over Adam and Eve’s This command or instruction was thoughts and received their worship given by a perfect (holy) God in a perfect earth (without sin or pollution) (obedience) for himself, turning man’s purpose to his own rebellion against giving them a clear and simple God. In order to prevent this from freewill choice, to obey or disobey, being an eternal damnation God, by because there is no freedom without his love and mercy, prevented Adam choice. It was a clear warning of from reaching the tree of life and by their own spiritual and even physical cursing the earth he set a time limit death if they chose to eat the fruit of on Satan’s rule. This would hinder (but ‘knowledge of good and evil’. Whether not prevent) mankind’s new desire to they understood what death would follow Satan’s empire building agenda. really mean or not (as no human Now began the battle for the souls death had been experienced at that (will) of men. Would they turn back point), is debatable. Even so, they to God or continue in rebellion with chose to disobey this one prohibitive Satan? It’s been a bumpy journey! commandment by listening to an angel disguised as a serpent/dragon In his mercy and wisdom, the Father (dinosaur). This error plunged had already anticipated and prepared a mankind at it’s earliest point into an way to enable mankind to be restored

T

omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

7

to him. This sacrificial plan would provide for both salvation for man and the final destruction of Satan.

However, due to God’s principle of freewill, the plan would have to be willingly received by those men and women on the earth who chose to turn back to him and reject Satan through repentance. These would be the ‘sons of God’ who would learn to reject Satan and his rebellion.

History reveals that through his friends like Noah, Abraham, Moses and the prophets the promises, commandments and ordinances of the Law (the Word of God) was introduced into the earth to reveal the sin of rebellion and the salvation to come. These powerful words, from heaven, were designed to both reveal sin and restrain it, in order for there to be fellowship between God and man without destruction and to bring blessings from heaven to earth for all people who believe.

“So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” (Isaiah 55:11) The purpose of the Law & Prophets The Laws and instructions of the Torah enabled this small oppressed slave nation of Jacob to eventually enter a holy land and be blessed.

Moses interceded for their rebellion at Mount Sinai and God gave a blood 8 The Commands of Christ

covenant and priestly system to save them. The people often failed to obey these 613 commands and the agreed judgements (discipline) came upon them. However, despite the Israeli ‘failures’ and consequential judgements and dispersions into all nations, the Hebrew Laws and Word of the Prophets spread and revealed to the world it’s sinful condition. The struggles of Israel in relationship with God reveals many truths essential for the Christian disciple today.

“Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. ... Now all these things happened unto them for examples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.” (1 Corin 10:1-12) The majority of the world still prefers to follow the beguiling lies of Satan, whom Paul declares the ‘god of this world’ system (2 Corin 4:4). Even after 2000 years of testimony from men and women who have known God through Christ and revealed his purpose, mankind (and most of the so called church) still rebels against the truth. Israel’s historical testimony also reveals the strength and weaknesses of man under holy Law and demonstrates the mercy, holiness, faithfulness and severity of God towards sin. More importantly it shows God to be 100% true to his Word and sovereign over all.

o

omega-ministries.org

“And the Lord commanded us to do all these statutes, to fear the Lord our God, for our good always, that he might preserve us alive, as it is at this day.” (Deut 6) Jesus and the apostles all proclaimed that the commandments given on Mount Sinai were only ever meant to be a ‘shadow’ and ‘tutor’ until the coming of God himself in the form of the ‘Son of Man’ (the Messiah) who would appear at just the right point in the history of humanity (Matt 11:13, Gal 4:1-7). This is the ‘good news’ of God with us, the Gospel.

Jesus Christ’s first appearing and testimony was prophesied in great detail in Scripture, so that Israel and the whole world would have opportunity to be saved from the coming judgement on Satan and the second death (Rev 20:14) which is eternal spiritual punishment. So at the end of all this we see that the purpose of Israel’s experience was to lead all of us at this time to Christ!

“But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.” (Gal 3:23-25) The last Adam Jesus Christ lived on earth as Adam should have done - without sin, in power and love bringing life to his omega-ministries.org

spiritual offspring and the earth.

Christ came to bring this true spiritual liberty to those trapped under Satan’s oppression, first for the Jew and then for the Gentile (nations). Jesus liberated some Jews (his chosen people) from their binding covenant of ceremonial law made with him through Moses. He did this by allowing himself to be nailed to the cross, like a husband dying and freeing his wife from the marriage agreement (1 Corin 7:39).

However, before going through this sacrifice, he built a remnant body of men and women into a new heavenly house of faith in him, sealing it by a New Covenant (as prophesied through Jeremiah 31). His ‘new commands’ to his followers in the kingdom of faith and love are the subject of this book.

Christ is self declared to be the Way, the Truth and the Life and proved it by rising from the dead in transformed human flesh, as the firstborn from the dead by the Spirit’s power. Now as King of Kings and Lord of Lords he reigns from heaven’s kingdom interceding for us who believe in him and we are watching for his bodily return, so that we can remain in him for eternity. The scale of this plan and the implications of this plan are so immense that it affects every living soul for all time. How Jesus lived cannot therefore be under estimated, because according to the apostles, the Godhead dwelt in him bodily as an example o

The Commands of Christ

9

and measure of reality! (Col 2:9; 1 John 1:1-2).

“If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.”

(John 15:10) As the second Adam, Jesus came as one free from sin in the physical flesh (pure) and who fulfilled ALL the laws, commandments and prophecies that the Father had ever given. He was without sin (from conception) and full of the Spirit, hearing the Father clearly, so that in the end he could declare, ‘I have kept my Father’s commandments’ (John 15:10). Jesus himself makes a clear distinction between his ‘Father’s commands’ (those under Law in Israel) and his ‘new commands’ given by the Spirit in the transition from Law back to the Grace of Eden (John 1:17).

This needs to be understood to avoid confusion over the requirements of the old way (Israel) and freedoms in the new way (Christian) teaching.

“If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15).

Thankfully, to avoid this confusion, Jesus makes it clear that he came to ‘fulfill’ the old ‘Law’ and to give us his new ‘kingdom commands’ by the indwelling Spirit and the Father. Much of the new upholds the old by drawing our hearts and minds back to God’s original plan and promises to Adam and Abraham. Our love for Jesus and the Father as believers is expressed by 10 The Commands of Christ

obeying and keeping these commands, by putting them into daily practice through the empowering of his Holy Spirit (2 Corin 3:17). This is the empowering purpose of grace. Seen in Christ’s own submission to the Father, (daily hearing his guidance) Jesus teaches that we must also obey in the same way.

“But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.”

(Luke 11:28) His intension is that, by our obedience, we will ‘be blessed’ i.e. it’s for our benefit, because his Word separates us from Satan and surrounds us with heaven’s favour and angelic protection. Unlike the many ‘ritual’ and burdensome ordinances given to Moses for Israel, this new Law of the Spirit is supernaturally written on the heart (inner spirit) by the Holy Spirit through rebirth (John 3) and is fed daily by revelation (hearing from heaven). Sin is overcome from within rather than by our determined efforts to follow the external written codes. However, even so we still retain freewill and, because we are in a fallen world, we must still willingly choose to obey or as Paul says, ‘put on Christ’.

This reality was prophesied by the prophet Jeremiah many hundreds of years before Jesus came to proclaim the Kingdom: “After those days, saith the Lord, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it

o

omega-ministries.org

precepts, statutes and decrees specifically given for the Hebrew nation that they ‘might not sin’. Sin is obedience to Satan and demons and this always leads to death. The Laws were designed to give them a culture of love, peace and justice. These good laws were followed by them on and off for approximately 1500 years.

At the end of this period of history Jesus came and revealed the two most important foundational commands that sum up the whole spirit of the Law and the Prophets: “Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, testing him, and saying, Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him,Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. (from Deut 6:5) This is the first and great commandment.

And the second is like unto it,Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself (from Lev 19:18) On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” (Matt 22:36-40).

The Levitical Laws Superseded Notice that these two commands “And Moses said unto the people, Fear not: quoted are not actually found in the well known ‘10 commandments’ for God is come to prove you, and that his written on the stone tablets! (Exod fear may be before your faces, that ye sin 20). Intruigingly Jesus lists these as not.” (Exod 20:20) first and second in importance. By doing As we know Moses received 613 this he redefines their importance specific commandments on Mount Sinai (in the Arabian desert) These laws according to the Kingdom of heaven.

This has huge implications and reveals are a mixture of direct commands, in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people. And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the Lord: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.”

(Jeremiah 31:31-34).

Instead of external ritual ordinances, that must be obeyed in order to be justified (often on pain of death), the Father reveals his desire to put his Word in hearts and minds, so that we are fully equipped to follow his ways with joy, having been freed of sin and iniquity. Therefore the Son of God’s new commands are not burdensome, because by the renewed spirit ‘within’ we love him, being graciously empowered by the indwelling of his presence. By this we literally become his new tabernacle* of dwelling (2 Corin 5:1-5). When God’s fullness dwells in you it is plain and obvious and this is the ‘born again’ experience. (*tent)

omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

11

to us his intent with regard to his other commands and decrees. Realising the significance of these two ‘Royal Laws’, as they became known (see Jas 2:8), are the key to understanding the whole purpose of the Law and the Prophets and touches the very heart of the Father.

“And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die.” (Exod 20:19) Because of their fear of hearing direct from God, the rebellious Israelites made Moses their intermediary and he heard for them. This is why God gave the Sanctuary and Tabernacle (Mishkan) and a Levitical priesthood, in order that they could still receive God’s Word and his favour as a nation even without knowing him individually (and so not die in sin). In this respect the Sanctuary Tabernacle was an act of grace on God’s part which the people therefore highly revered. Moses explains to them why this happened: The Lord our God made a covenant with us in Horeb. The Lord made not this covenant with our fathers, but with us, even us, who are all of us here alive this day.

The Lord talked with you face to face in the mount out of the midst of the fire,(I stood between the Lord and you at that time, to shew you the word of the Lord: for ye were afraid by reason of the fire, and went not up into the mount;) (Deut 5:1-5) ALL the people could could have met 12 The Commands of Christ

with Yahweh as Moses did, but they rejected the opportunity, giving in to the fear of death. That’s why God gave them the Sanctuary and designed it to reveal the Christ to come. Simply incredible!

As long as they kept the Sanctuary and Priesthood functioning they would have a route to salvation and forgiveness of sin (based on Christ’s evenmtual death). All this complexity came because they did not want to hear his voice for themselves! Jesus came to tear this veil (barrier) down and re-open the way to commune with the Father directly by his Spirit through his own redeeming blood, so that without fear we can approach God with freedom and boldness as a son can his own father. (2 Corin 3:14; Heb 4:16). That’s really good news!

“Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, until the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.” (Gal 3:19) The New Promise has indeed come The apostle Paul grew up a devout Benjamite Jew and became a Pharisee of Pharisees.Yet many years after his conversion even he said this: “For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.”

(Rom 10:4).

When Paul wrote this letter to the church, the second Temple (with

o

omega-ministries.org

Herod’s additions) in Jerusalem, was still functioning despite the upheaval of the crucifixion of Christ. As before it managed to function without God’s presence or blessing on it. They kept the wheels in motion for a public and political show, but God had left.

One of the main reasons Paul and the many other apostles suffered persecution, by Jewish leaders, was their preaching of ‘righteousness by faith in Christ alone’ and not by observing the Laws (of Mishkan) or even of circumcision which came before the Law. This was very offensive to the Jewish leaders because their understanding of life (and money) depended on it. Plus, they were fearful of doing something that would further upset the Roman authorities. They had just had 200 years of war and turmoil and were now occupied by Rome.

Eventually Roman patience ran out with the rebellious Jews and the second Temple was fully and dramatically destroyed by Vespasian and his son Titus (AD 67-70) along with all Jerusalem. Temple observance then ended as prophesied in Dan 9 and Mark 13:2 and sacrifice came to a complete end. The Temple was burnt to the ground. This was 40 years after Jesus had died and risen. So not only were Jesus words of prophecy true, but the writer to the Hebrews was also proven correct when he said: “In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath omega-ministries.org

made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.”

(Heb 8:13).

Jesus reigning in heaven never tried to stop the destruction, because it was his will. Without God’s blessing on a thing it will eventually come to an end according to his prophetic word.

Jesus now leads his believers into an eternal inheritance, a new heaven and earth, not part of this fallen world, and on the last day HE will come with all angelic forces to destroy his enemies on earth! (Heb 9:15).

Just as the commands of Torah (law) enabled the Israelites to experience their inheritance and be at peace, joy and protected from their enemies in a physical land, so we can now dwell in the heavenly kingdom by faith in Jesus Christ who has ‘gone before us’ and made the way open. As his new heavenly HOUSE Jesus taught us to pray, ‘Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven’ and through prayer the two become one, that is; heaven and earth can be reconnected and so reveal God’s original glory and that to come. This ‘good news of the kingdom’ lifts up Jesus Christ crucified and draws all men to the Fathers heart of love and redemption.

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (Matt 11:28-30) “For he is our peace, who hath made both o

The Commands of Christ

13

initially Jews, but subsequently all nations becoming ONE new man, even a new heavenly nation in the Spirit.

This is so that we can individually and corporately commune with God the Father by the Holy Spirit without a human mediator of any kind. We can dwell with him experientially in the New (Heavenly) Jerusalem, not only after bodily death, but in the NOW in the TODAY of our life on earth. Our experience is one of discovering His favour given to us in Christ, rather than trying to justify ourselves to God

by Law or rules of religious behaviour.

For the Christian the door is wide open to the glory, but for the unbelieving it remains firmly shut, their minds being blinded rather than opened by the reading of Scripture (2 Corin 3:14).

Paul reveals that this was something determined by God until the very end comes (Rom 11:6-8).

The rewards for obedience by faith In summary come in this life with hope of eternal life (knowing God) to come. This is the Jesus gave us clear interpretations good news! His yoke is indeed easy and of the old Law and the prophets and brand new commands and instructions his burden light, because it is founded based on his own complete fulfilment on HIS faith, HIS hope and HIS love; of the Scriptures. Even the atonement love both for him and love for one sacrifice itself was replaced by his own another. flesh. The NEW commands, precepts, statutes and decrees that he gives us are based on his supernatural work of grace upon the ‘heart by faith’ as described by Jeremiah. These were given to his new House (church) one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body (the church) by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.

For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.” (Eph 2:14-18) Access to the Father has changed from outward ritual laws, through a Tabernacle or Temple system for righteousness or justification, to full access by faith in his righteousness through the Holy Spirit. We the people of Christ have become the real Temple of God and he comes to dwell in us and through us (spiritually), until he returns visibly in power at the end of the ages, now we are the ‘living stones’

14 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

Commands - precepts - decrees - statutes

S

criptures reveal four ‘types’ of ‘commands’ or ‘instructions’.

These are defined here, so that we can understand the old and then consider how Jesus interpreted them in the new.

12:11) like a shepherds crook. Again this is for our eternal benefit which is God’s greatest concern.

PRECEPTS (Piqqudim) ‘a wise instruction’ COMMANDS (Mitzvah) ‘to say’ A precept can be understood as a A command is something that is ‘wise instruction’ which deals with ‘spoken’ by the creator either directly specific issues or purposes applying from heaven (10 commandments) or to that person, tribe or nation. (Lev through the Prophets including Jesus. 25:23; Exod 25:9).Yahweh (God) gave Only our willing obedience leads to instructions through Moses specific the blessing or Shalom (peace) for only to Israel regarding their culture which it was intended. If we are to be (to separate them from the idolatry in relationship with God it must be on of the nations and sin). He dealt with his terms which are holy (separated surrounding Gentile nations differently, from sin) and founded on his love. His but even spoke through prophets to commands are always for our benefit them (Obadiah). However it was with and in the context of our eternal Israel (Jacob) that he made a unique blessing, to do us good. Commands are binding covenant, because of his given so that we overcome Satan and friendship with Abraham. deception and are equipped to reign in Moses’ intercession brought the Law this life and are prepared for the next. and ordinances (precepts) for holy God’s Words are eternal and in that living and priesthood to deal with their sense these never cease to be relevant. sinful weaknesses and failings. Jesus However, we must remember that brought his own ‘kingdom precepts’ Jesus came with the authority to fulfil which show his church (the pillar prophecy in Scripture, clarify others and base of truth, 1 Tim 3:15) how to and introduce new ones to enable behave, in order to fully please him the reality of the Spirit filled life (see e.g. ‘I tell you do not swear at all.’ Some Matt 5:43-45) and a greater glory for old covenant ‘piqqudim’ change in us who believe in him. If we disobey line with the provision of the New God’s Word there are likely to be Covenant and the change of priesthood disciplinary consequences to guide from Levitical to Melchizedekian us back to the truth (Job 36:10; Heb (Heb 7:12). Jesus said it means that omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

15

our righteousness must exceed that of the Scribes, Pharisees and old Temple service (Matt 5:20). This is only possible by His faith and the work of the Holy Spirit whom He gives to those who believe in Him as Lord.

DECREES (esar) ‘a guarantee’ A decree is something God declares will happen, a ‘guarantee’ for the future and is therefore irreversible (e.g. Jer 31:36; Psa 148:6; Dan 4:24; Obadiah) as his Word does not return void (Isa 55:11). These are announcements, judgements or blessings that have been proclaimed through the prophets and apostles or even angels regarding individuals, tribes or nations. Jesus also gave decrees regarding His Kingdom for the last days or post resurrection ages. e.g. Matt 21:43. Some of these decrees were prophecies which were subsequently fulfilled in the first century, but others stretch forward through time to our day and beyond.

STATUTES (choq) ‘inheritance’ A statute is an instruction or command given about a ‘portion’ or ‘inheritance’ that is given or allocated to a tribe, clan or individual and gives definable limits, boundaries and clear conditions.

(Exod 18:16; Num 18:20). Statutes are designed to release benefits for obedience and punishments/ consequences for disobedience. These usually affect the quality of life in this earth, particularly in relationship with others, but may also relate to the eternal inheritance to come. Statutes are very common within the Law of Moses concerning the Israelites and their relationship with the land.

Jesus gives his church some statutes as well, in the New Covenant that were not given to the nation Israel.

These are clearly presented as ‘if then’ statements, so that we can be in no doubt that any benefits are conditional on obedient response.

Key Command = (c) Precept = (p) Decree = (d) Statute = (s)

“Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” (Matthew 7:13-14) 16 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

The 133 Commands of Christ 1. Repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand (c) “From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (Matt 4:17) At the commencement of his preaching Jesus’ message does not vary from John the baptist, who also commanded Israel to repent (John 3:2). Repentance is not just about stopping an evil action, it’s also about turning your heart and mind back to God’s WAYS of holiness. It’s about rethinking how you see the Creator, and how you treat other people as a result (righteousness see Malachi 4:6). Repentance is also about recognising what sin leads to (death) and sensibly rejecting it, because without practical holiness (purity) no-one will see the Lord (Heb 12:14). Change in our spirit and soul through repentance is only possible in this life, in this realm of time and space, and so it carries an urgency above any other message. Once we die, leave our body and enter the spiritual realm, change is not possible but eternally fixed for good or bad. Our identity is either with Satan or with Christ (creator). Repentance always leads to faith in Christ as Lord and saviour (Acts 2:28).

John’s calling was to ‘prepare the way for the Lord’ and this reveals the purpose of his repentance message, to prepare the ‘inner heart and mind’ of God’s people to receive the Word of Truth - to be good soil (Mark 4). Jesus, as the Word incarnate, has come and the only way to know who he is and where h e comes from is to repent. This means choosing to turn your heart (mind, will and emotions) fully over to him and away from sin (selfish rebellion). After this obedience Jesus baptises with his Holy Spirit to dwell in us as a guarantee of salvation (Exod 19:5; Eph 1:13-14; Col 1:27) and then He begins the sanctification (purification) process in you to perfection.

Faith in Jesus and our commitment to receive truth leads directly to our water baptism into Christ and His Kingdom by full immersion, sealing the spiritual circumcision of the repentant heart (Acts 2:41; Rom 2:29). This becomes the death of ‘self’ and its blind obedience to the desires of the earthly flesh (sin) and releases the promise of a renewed mind in Christ by faith through the work of the cross (see Acts 8:36; 10:47).

“In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.“ (Acts 17:30-31) omega-ministries.org o The Commands of Christ 17

2. Ye must be born again (c) “Marvel not that I said unto thee,‘Ye must be born again.’” (John 3:7).

Many people are still surprised and marvel that, in order to enter the Kingdom of Heaven, you ‘must be born again’, ‘born of water and the Spirit’, or born from above, meaning our human spirit is reborn from heaven by the Holy Spirit and thus reconnected to our Father who is that same life giving Spirit.

“God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.”

(John 4:24) To be ‘born again’ we must have genuine repentance and faith in the blood of Christ for the forgiveness of sins (cleansing of the conscience) and receive rebirth by God into Christ’s new priesthood (Psa 110:4). This is not an option, but revealed as the only way to enter the heavenly Kingdom of God. Unless the Father draws a person through grace none would be saved (1 Corin 2:13), but being ‘drawn’ does not guarantee salvation, because the sinner must respond even as Moses did when he saw the burning bush (Exod 3:4). Attending a church gathering does not gain you access to heaven because those who do not have the Spirit of Christ do not belong to Christ (2 Corin 13:5). When born again the human spirit comes alive by uniting with Jesus’ Spirit (1 Corin 6:17).

The Kingdom becomes clear and present in the mind so you can hear his voice for direction, the Bible comes to life (John 10:27). Without this conversion/ circumcision and renewal by the Holy Spirit no man can know God who is Holy and righteous. Jesus declared: “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (John 14:6) This is the revolutionary message of heavenly wisdom that Jesus revealed to the puzzled Nicodemus! The apostle Paul points out that the natural minded world struggles to grasp this simple basic truth: “For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent. Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.” (1 Corin 1:19-21) When you are united with Christ through faith by the power of the Holy Spirit you know it without any doubt! Once you are born again in this way it is vital that you remain dependent on the Spirit and do not go back to Law or legalism to justify your faith. (Gal 5:1) 18 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

3. Follow me (c) “And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” (Matt 4:19).

When Jesus calls us to follow him it’s always with His purpose in mind which is ‘to catch men’ for the Kingdom of heaven. We are first called to dwell with Him (by the Spirit), secondly to change our lifestyle (sanctification) and thirdly to be trained in his mission. The disciples were given a new destiny upon responding to the call and gave up everything to follow Him as apostles (Luke 5:11; Mark 10:28). These particular men were turned from seeking fish to seeking souls who, once trained by them, would also become as wholehearted and devoted to serving the saviour. The Twelve apostles spread the message to all nations through their preaching and signs following. Soon other apostles like Paul and Barnabas were appointed by the Holy Spirit and sent abroad to the Gentiles. The call to follow goes out to all mankind, but as Jesus later reveals, ‘many are called, but few are chosen’ (Matt 22:14) referring to those who reject this sacrifice of their own life for the sake of the Kingdom of God. 4. Rejoice and be exceeding glad (s) “Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” (Matt 5:11-12).

Being able to rejoice when you are insulted, persecuted and falsely accused for believing in Jesus Christ is an indication that you have truly fixed your mind on heaven above and not on earthly pleasures. By rejoicing and being glad we make a kind of offering to the Father who has found us worthy to suffer for his names sake, for this is how they treated the prophets and apostles who now stand in glory beside him.You know that you have died to sin and worldliness when you can rejoice and be glad in persecution for the name of Jesus! The reward is stored in heaven and is a ‘great reward’ and this is according to the eternal heavenly measurement which is far greater than any rewards here on earth.Your name will be written in the Lamb’s book of life! (Rev 3:5). There may not be any visible reward here on earth, but a confidence in the heart of the goodness and greatness of God. Knowing his presence beside you is reward enough.

Over many centuries, and even to this day, believers are martyred for their faith.

It is estimated that the Roman Empire murdered over 10 million Christians and the Inquisition of the Jesuits murdered and tortured 50 million in the ‘dark ages’! That is a great multitude that John the apostle saw in his vision of the heavenly church under persecution: omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

19

“After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb. And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God, Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen. And one of the elders answered, saying unto me,What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they? And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me,These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them.They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.”

(Rev 7) 5. Ye are the salt of the earth (d) “Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.”

(Matt 5:13).

In the old testament salt symbolised the purification of all the offerings made

by Law (Lev 2:13). This ‘salt of the covenant’ was a seasoning that mixed into the food being burnt before the Lord symbolising purity and cleansing (sanctification). Purity of mind and spirit are to be present in everything that the people of God do, whether Israel in that day, or the Christian in the present.

Like pure salt our holy life is an offering to God and we are to be mixed into society to bring peace and prevent further corruption. If we cease from being pure or from being mixed into society evil will increase leading ultimately to judgement upon that nation, not good for anyone. We are to be both pure and live in peace with all men. (Mark 9:50, Col 4:6).

No other separated people are called the ‘salt of the earth’ and so this is who we must be. We do not want to lose this saltiness otherwise we may pay a high price - being trampled by our enemies - this was the judgement that finally came upon the Jews when they rejected Jesus’ and their nation and city was destroyed by Rome in AD 70.

20 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

6. Ye are the light of the world (d) “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.” (Matt 5:14-15).

Jesus announces that the faithful of God are as a ‘light’ that is obvious to all.

Jerusalem was meant to be such a light because of it’s holy inhabitants. The light of heaven is Jesus who came from heaven to bring revelation to mankind of the Father’s compassion and love. ‘For God so loved the world that he gave his only son’ (John 3:16). Armed with this truth his people (the church body) have a duty to share abroad God’s goodness through all manner of teaching, training, miracles and good works. Rather than hide these blessings behind closed doors it should be shed abroad into every corner of the world until everyone has had opportunity to repent through the kindness of God. “For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost (Titus 3:3-5).

7. Let your light shine before men (p) “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” (Matt 5:16).

The purpose of the light (revelation) is to let it shine in practical ways before a lost world who are trapped in darkness and on the road to destruction. From our place of strength, as his body the church, the new Jerusalem, we must reach out with this heavenly revelation through miracles and good deeds of all kinds to save any who will believe the good news of God’s love and forgiveness. Our reward is simply that those who benefit will give glory to our Father in heaven and then join with us in praise, repentance, seeking to follow him. We must choose to do this by laying down our lives as a living sacrifice - following the Lord’s example of servanthood to reveal the heart of the Father.

Our good deeds are not a means of salvation which is by faith alone, but rather an expression of selfless giving because we are free from our need for selfish gratification or self justification. There are no works that can earn salvation and those without faith in God fool themselves that he will accept them into heaven without repentance and faith. All genuine good works will point to the miraculous and result in glory to God as the provider and not to any man. omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

21

8. Think not that I have come to destroy the Law or the Prophets (d) “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.” (Matt 5:17).

Jesus came as the saviour of the world. He came not to judge or tear down, but to redeem mankind and he did this by fulfilling the righteous requirements of both the Law and the Prophets. He fulfilled them for us. Paul tells us that this brought an end to the requirements of the Law for justification when he was finally nailed to the cross (Col 2:14) and when he cried ‘It is finished’ ALL was then fulfilled by Jesus - this is surely what ‘finished’ means! Paul confidently writes that ‘Messiah is the end of the law (for justification), so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes’ (Rom 10:4). To be clear it’s not the complete end of the Law, because we must still uphold it as the holy moral standard. Jesus also taught his disciples and later the apostles the ‘new commandments’ and these supersede the ordinances (rituals etc.) of the Law for justification because they are Spirit led and empowered. These new commands uphold the Spirit of the Law and if obeyed result in a holy lifestyle and separation from the selfish motives of the world. Some laws were changed (upgraded) and some done away with (animal sacrifices and burnt offerings) and some new ones given.

9. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments (s) “For verily I say unto you,Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matt 5:19).

The Law was holy and perfect instruction by the Father and when willingly obeyed brought forth life for the Jew and converted Gentile both. The born again Christian (after pentecost) is supernaturally raised to a new heavenly position in Christ that the Torah by the flesh alone was unable to do because of man’s weakness and sinful tendencies. Only with His Spirit in us are we able to fully obey Him through our love of God and love of our neighbour. In this way we uphold the law, but we are not bound by it’s ordinances, that is by sacrifices, rituals concerning food, days and festivals etc. and this is corroborated by the teaching of the apostles (Heb 9:10).

We do not seek to be justified by these ordinances today, rather we are liberated from them as they apply only to the flesh (Mark 7:14-16). In this way the law of Christ now supersedes the law of Moses. We can now know the living Jesus 22 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

personally and as a consequence we are able to practice and teach what pleases the Father in liberty (Gal 5:1; 1 Corin 4:4-5). Even so the Law of God will always be in the earth as a testimony of God’s holiness and dealings with a rebellious nation revealing sins sinfulness. Jesus indicates that one day heaven and earth will pass away but not until all prophecy has been fulfilled concerning Israel and the church. We are closer to that day than many may suppose.

10. Except your righteousness shall exceed that of the Scribes & Pharisees (s) “For I say unto you,That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” (Matt 5:20).

Jesus knew that only by faith in his perfect righteous fulfilment of the Law would anyone (including Pharisees etc.) be able to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. He himself has become our ‘righteousness, holiness and redemption’ (1 Corin 1:3031) by faith in his work. There is nothing we can do to save ourselves through our own righteousness (religious observances) which can never be enough to satisfy the holiness of the Father of glory. The only way to enter heaven is to be born again of the Spirit and have the new nature (spirit life). Jesus is the one who baptises in the Holy Spirit, He enables us to receive the indwelling of the Godhead (Mark 1:8). Without this ‘seal of approval’ we will not gain entrance to the heavenly city when the end of the age arrives, because we have no righteousness of our own. That’s why we must give up our own ways and accept his full provision by grace with thanksgiving and praise for his goodness and kindness towards us!

11. Whoever is angry with his brother without a cause (c) “Ye have heard that it was said of them of old time,Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you,That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say,Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.” (Matt 5:21-22) God is love and His power is expressed through love, His will is love for one another and even love for our enemies. So to have hatred or anger even in the heart towards anyone without good reason contradicts His nature. This is considered so serious that the Lord tells us that it is punishable by hell itself! This is an example of a command that is upgraded to a higher level of obedience and only possible to those made a new creature by the Spirit. If we are frustrated by our brother we must hold our tongue and pray for them to be dealt with by His omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

23

Spirit of love. We must repent of our evil thoughts towards others trusting for His Spirit to renew our heart and mind and grant repentance to our opposition.

It has also been shown that harbouring anger or resentment can lead to various kinds of sickness of soul and body. As James points out persistent sin leads to death! (Jas 1:15).

12. First be reconciled to thy brother (p) “Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” (Matt 5:23-24) This scripture is often misunderstood and miss quoted. This is not saying ‘if you have something against someone else leave your gift’, but it says the opposite; ‘if your brother has something against you’. If you are aware of a fellow believer who is upset with you, Jesus is saying, for their benefit go to them and enable them to forgive you by your apology or confession. Unity in the body is more important than any gift given - whatever that may be. The gospel is the ministry of reconciliation between God and man and between one another. As with all things spiritual this is a humbling experience, but one that brings peace.

13. Agree with thine adversary quickly (s) “Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison” (Matt 5:25).

This was Jesus’ warning again to the nation of Israel, at that time, as he warned them of their impending judgement if they were not reconciled to the Father through Him. Jesus also brings this wisdom to us in the context of being in right relationship, even with an enemy or opponent. If for any reason you have wronged another do not delay the reconciliation, so that it escalates to this level of conflict. Wherever possible settle anything before it gets to this point and with God especially agree quickly that you are in the wrong.

“Yet they say,The Lord shall not see, neither shall the God of Jacob regard it. Understand, ye brutish among the people: and ye fools, when will ye be wise? He that planted the ear, shall he not hear? He that formed the eye, shall he not see? He that chastiseth the heathen, shall not he correct? He that teacheth man knowledge, shall not he know? The Lord knoweth the thoughts of man, that they are vanity.” (Psa 94:7-11)

24 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

14. That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust (c) “Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time,Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you,That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.” (Matt 5:29-30).

Jesus is here making it clear that lust in the mind and heart through what you look at to gratify the flesh is as bad a sin as the act itself and has the same consequences if unresolved before God. To a man the mention of the eye and the hand with regard to sexual lust is clearly referring to self abuse and the meditation on women, porn and sexual fantasies (yes they had these problems in ancient times too!). This should not be accepted by any professing believer as ‘normal’, but as it is, sin. Jesus can deliver from this spirit of lust.

Dying with sin in your life and body may result in you being thrown into hell with the master of sin, Satan. Jesus reveals the seriousness of persistent sin committed by the body (flesh) warning to either remove the lust or remove those body parts if you want to stop the behaviour that leads to eternal death!

Lust is a spirit which must be cast out (removed) and we must deny our flesh through prayer and fasting, so that we do not fall into temptation again. The Holy Spirit is able to help us in this renewing of the mind and heart so that we are free indeed.

“And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.”

(Gal 5:24) 15. Whosoever shall put away his wife... committeth adultery (s) “He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so. And I say unto you,Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.” (Matt 19:9).

Two things that God takes very seriously, making a covenant and breaking a covenant. A covenant seals a promise and breaking it causes both heartache and destruction. Marriage should not be entered into lightly, but with proper thought and mature wisdom. It’s a spiritual and physical covenant of two becoming one body. God hates divorce because it means that one part is not prepared to love sacrificially as he commands. The only basis for divorce, in His sight, is fornication (infidelity) when the other partner has yielded to omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

25

Satan’s temptation to unite with another through unfaithfulness. This corrupts the spirit and the flesh and effectively breaks the covenant promise. Only in such circumstances does God permit a legal split if there is no repentance, reconciliation and cleansing. With any other reason for divorce the one divorcing becomes guilty of the sin of adultery if they remarry or unite sexually with any other partner. This seems harsh to our natural mind, but it’s a sign of how seriously God takes covenant making. Marriage is also a reflection of the commitment of Christ to his church and reflects the consequences if we are unfaithful to him by turning back to the world and sin. Without confession of this sin and repentance through Christ the consequences of sin will be reaped.

It’s the spiritual law of God which decides these cases and not the law of the land which may teach otherwise!

16. Do not swear at all (p) “But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God’s throne: Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black. But let your communication be,Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.”

(Matt 5:34-37).

The truth of God and the laws of God are very clear, they are either ‘yes’ or they are ‘no’. God does not deal with ‘maybe’ or ‘perhaps’, but he is precise and clear so that we are not deceived about his thoughts or his will. When he makes a promise he keeps it. So it’s better to just say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to anything requested of us, rather than a false promise as this is Satan’s way.

Being true to your Word is the most God-like action you can make to a fellow human being and this is holy. We must not be superstitious and swear by anything as a guarantee of making a promise or telling the truth. Even the act in legal courts of swearing on the Bible is nullified by this precept.

17. Resist not evil (p) “Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you,That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.” (Matt 5:38-39).

Here is a command that Jesus upgrades and which if obeyed by humanity would no doubt cause all wars to cease. The best way to defeat your enemy is to show him peaceful submission and dependence on God as a shield and defender.

Jesus reveals how important this is when he is arrested without resistance in 26 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

the garden of Gethsemane (Matt 26:52-54). We trust in his divine power to both protect and preserve us and if it is his will to take us home, so be it!(Rom 14:8). God himself will repay any evil done against his people (Rom 12:19).

Our refusal to resist evil with evil brings a conviction to the conscience of the persecutor (1 Peter 2:19; 3:16) for their salvation and prevents the cycle of revenge and ultimately war. We see the apostles take this approach allowing themselves to be arrested, tortured and in many cases executed. However in God sight this is not a defeat but rather a promotion for those who ‘love not their lives even unto death’ (Rev 12:11). This also challenges the notion of Christians taking up arms even in defense of any nation state (see also John 18:36).

“Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Rom 12:21) 18. Let him have thy cloak also (p) “And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also.”

(Matt 5:40).

Far from fighting lengthy legal battles over material things we see that our security in heavenly riches should enable us to give earthly things away, even when robbed or sued!

Jesus commands us to have the opposite attitude to that of the pagan world and even in this circumstance seek to bless our enemy. This opens the way for the Holy Spirit to convict the conscience of the accusers and perhaps save their souls, whilst you receive riches in heaven for obedience and assurance of his salvation!

19. And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain (p) “And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain.” (Matt 5:41) Again Jesus makes clear what our attitude should be to those who try to control and compel us to serve them, over serve them. Reveal the heart of Christ through service and his kingdom will come upon them. This reveals the Father’s Spirit of love as he makes the sun and rain to come for the righteous and the unrighteous.

omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

27

20. Give to him that asketh thee (p) “Give to him that asketh thee” (Matt 5:42) Here the Lord commands us to give to anyone who asks, not grudgingly, but willingly, so proving that our hearts are not attached to the things of this world, but only in Christ and the riches of heaven he supplies. We become His arm of mercy a channel of provision and help to those in need whether we give money or time to meet a genuine need.

“Say not unto thy neighbour, Go, and come again, and tomorrow I will give; when thou hast it by thee.” (Prov 3:28).

Jesus does not expect us to be exploited by others who are not in need, but if this is not discernible we must give them the benefit of the doubt and leave the judgement of it with God. This is ancient wisdom made plain and clear by Jesus.

21. From him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away (p) “and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.” (Matt 5:42) God’s plan for us is to be the lender and not the borrower, the head and not the tail (Deut 28:12-14). In his Kingdom the greatest is the servant, the head is the most humble who lends from their abundance to release the creativity of the brothers or provide a need. God wants his people to share and have all things in common between themselves and for there to be equality among His children (2 Corin 8:14). It’s important to note that this giving and lending is mainly within the redeemed body of Christ. Benefits to the unsaved without some form of reconciliation to God may prove to be their undoing rather than their salvation.

Jesus himself points this out to the Canaanite woman having also advised his disciples of the same (Matt 7:6; 15:26 see also Acts 4:35).

22. Love your enemies, bless them that curse you (p) “Ye have heard that it hath been said,Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.

But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.”

(Matt 5:43-45) God created all men and blesses them with the opportunity of life. This is another example of Jesus raising the level of righteous obedience compared to that of the Law. Those enemies who oppose God and the righteous church are in 28 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

danger of losing their eternal inheritance. We are commanded to pray for them to see the error of their ways and be saved. God will open their eyes to see the truth of his love for them, so they can repent and choose life. But even if they do not repent we still lift them to God’s mercy. This teaching is in stark contrast to most religions who do not consider it wrong to hate their enemies and even kill them. However, in Christ we are to show mercy towards all men just as our Father does and so become like him.

“And Jesus said,“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34) 23. Be ye perfect (p) “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” (Matt 5:48) At first this seems to be an impossible ask by the Lord. However, God never asks something from us anything that cannot be achieved by his grace. Having a mature (perfect) wise attitude to every circumstance and a whole hearted commitment to the Father in Heaven is clearly possible for any willing person who has the Holy Spirit within. This is also a promise, that as we continue in him day after day that he will bring about such a change, so that we are perfected or matured as far as possible in this life as a disciple. This perfection is imputed to us by Jesus when we put our faith in his sanctifying work of the cross and his cleansing blood.

Holiness of life is the result of this perfecting process which Paul tells us is the goal of our faith for without it no-one shall see God! (Heb 12:14) “For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness. He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his holy Spirit.” (1 Thess 4:7-8) 24. Take heed that ye do not your alms before men (s) “Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.” (Matt 6:1) The word ‘alms’ or ‘generosity’ can also be translated ‘righteousness’. God loves a cheerful giver who is not seeking prestige or praise from men for his donation to supply the needy. By giving in secret God knows that our heart is genuine towards him and towards those who benefit and he rewards our faith, because we are like him. How many receive from him and do not realise! If we make our giving public (like the worldly) and take the praise and recognition there is no faith to reward, we have received what we wanted - the praise of men. The taking of offerings in ‘church’ meetings is not something taught by the apostles, omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

29

because it would rob the people of their reward from the Father. Rather they encouraged people to collect funds for apostolic mission to the poor and widows. (1 Corin 16:2) Giving should not be something with an agenda or false motive to gain personal praise or manipulate. The Christian stewards his income, so that God’s will is done. The ability to be wealthy is given in order that it can be distributed to those in need for an eternal blessing! (Mark 10:21; 2 Corin 8:14) 25. When thou prayest... pray to thy Father which is in secret (s) “And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men.Verily I say unto you,They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.” (Matt 6:5-7).

Prayer is about meeting with God Almighty in private by the Holy Spirit, in order to prepare for service to others in public, or to intercede for the lost. It’s about pouring out our hearts to our loving Father and listening to his wisdom for every aspect of our daily lives. It’s about listening to obey every Word that proceeds from his mouth, feeding on the bread of life that comes from heaven and drinking from the river of life, His Spirit. This is where we learn to renew our minds according to his will, just as Jesus showed us, ‘Not my will but your will be done!’

This is done in private as evidence that you truly believe that the Father is listening and responding to you, and he does! We are not to be like pagan religions using chants or repetitions, but rather to talk honestly to God with an open ear at all times.

26. After this manner pray (p) “After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

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

Give us this day our daily bread.

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

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.” (Matt 6:9-13).

30 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

Prayer is the foundation of those who follow Jesus as this was also his foundation with the Father. Our every waking hour should be a cry of constant prayer as we seek to walk as Jesus walked (1 John 2:6). Our prayer should be first to ‘Our Father’, then where He dwells, ‘in heaven’, then recognition of who He is ‘hallowed’ (holy). His purpose ‘your will be done’ which is the kingdom of ‘heaven coming to earth’. Our need, ‘daily bread of heaven’, ‘forgiveness of sins’ and grace to show mercy towards others. Finally our deliverance from the ‘trials of the evil one’. By fully comprehending this one prayer God’s whole purpose in the earth can be understood. Jesus said ‘my house will be a house of prayer for all nations’. That house is you, as you pray in unity with brothers and sisters in faith. (Matt 18:20) 27. Forgive men their trespasses (s) “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

(Matt 6:14-15; Mark 11:25-26; Luke 6:37).

If we are foolish enough to hold unforgiveness against anyone for trespassing against us (hurt or offense) then we will suffer under the weight of our own sin.

As we have seen, if we hate or have anger toward our brothers, we are breaking God’s laws of love and will open the door for the evil one to tempt and test us, so that we fall deeper into the mire of sins deceitfulness! So, it’s best to do as Jesus did on the Cross and say, ‘Father forgive them, they know not what they do’.

If we do not forgive we cannot be forgiven and unforgiven sin leads to sickness and death. This will manifest in this life and possibly endanger us in the next!

This is a conditional statute which unveils the truth of sowing and reaping.

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”

(Gal 6:7) This is an immovable spiritual law that God put into the earth to reveal his merciful character and expose our sinful actions. Many, even believers, are sick and suffering because of unforgiveness. We test God at our peril!

28. Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites (s) “Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast.Verily I say unto you,They have their reward.”

(Matt 6:16).

Both secret prayer and secret fasting bring a reward from God, a point often missed when reading this text. What is the reward? It’s receiving answers to omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

31

kingdom focussed prayer that achieves his will. Notice it is not IF but WHEN you fast. Fasting is the accepted method of ‘humbling’ our flesh before God in order to focus thoughts on him alone and release inner change to the heart.

Once hunger is overcome and the carnal senses quietened the voice of the Spirit becomes clearer. As Jesus showed, in the desert after his baptism, fasting is needed in order to overcome Satan’s continual stream of lies and deception.

Fasting teaches us that the food (Word) for the spirit and soul is much more valuable than food for the stomach because ‘man shall not live on bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God’. This lesson is the purpose of fasting and builds faith in the things not seen which are eternal.

There are also physical benefits from fasting as it also keeps the body fat low and the blood clear. This prevents many diseases that come from over indulgence and gluttony.

29. Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth (c) “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” (Matt 6:19-21).

Here Jesus does not give us any options regarding worldly goods. ‘Do not lay up/store up’ means do not store up! Hoarding goods and luxuries which serve no practical or homely use is considered by Jesus as a pointless and wasteful exercise open to destruction. Worldly hoarding and speculation on the ‘markets’ is not God’s will. Rather he exhorts us to focus our heart and efforts on storing up an alternative kind of treasure - heavenly riches! These are transferred from the heart into our heavenly bank and are to be found when we follow him in self denial and good works prompted by faith. Jesus said heal the sick, raise the dead and cast out devils and be generous to the poor. This was the message to the rich young man who struggled to let go of his riches in order to know Christ in a more full and dynamic way (see also command 107).

32 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

30. No man can serve two masters (d) “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.”

(Matt 6:24).

Many Christians today think that they can love both God and still enjoy the worldliness in society. Either consciously or unconsciously thinking that they can outsmart Jesus and actually serve two masters and still be well both physically and spiritually. Jesus though, makes it very clear, no matter what you think ‘you cannot serve God and mammon (greed)’. For the believer our ‘daily bread’ is Jesus Christ the WORD made flesh, the true bread from heaven (John 6:35).

Therefore our lifestyle must be ‘Word and Spirit’ based not ‘work and money’ based. Life should not be about money, shopping and accumulating more stuff.

This is called covetousness and is a sin that has caused wars and destruction!

“And he said unto them,Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.” (Luke 12:15) We must ‘Take heed’ (focus) and ‘beware’ (avoid) this trap incase we compromise the truth and twist it to justify our actions, in order to please our flesh and so be deceived. This is the very warning Jesus gives in the parable of the sower: “He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.” (Matt 13:22) This is such a serious matter that it cannot be overstated. The apostle Paul also teaches those under his care to beware these dangers. We must not think that becoming rich is the purpose of the Gospel. This is what he advised in 1 Timothy 6: If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; he is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

33

31. Take no thought for your life (c) “Therefore I say unto you,Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?” (Matt 6:25-26).

We must be motivated by faith and trust in our Father in heaven who wants to provide for us. After all he has endless resources and can provide for us at his will. However, this supply is too often thwarted by worry and fear. As His child we need faith that God really is Almighty to save and his promise that, ‘if we seek first his kingdom and his righteousness all things will be provided’!

All fear comes from the darkness and focuses the mind on what is lacking not on the enormity of God’s provision and potential for life. The purpose of faith is not to get stuff to satisfy the lust of the flesh, but to know Christ. If we do this first then we soon realise that stuff is not important and we gratefully accept the portion that he supplies - by whatever means. He will feed us and provide for us as we are faithful to His will and purposes.

32. Seek first the Kingdom of God, and his righteousness (c) “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matt 6:33).

If Jesus and the Word of God in Scripture tell us to put something first then we should open our ears, eyes and heart to obey. This command is the key to success in this life and the next if we wholeheartedly obey. As a heavenly kingdom He requires us to pray daily to connect with heaven through the Spirit. Armed with his daily presence we can walk in His righteousness by faith with our brothers and bring good news to the lost.

This all leads to experiencing Gods favour upon us and he supplies us all things we need for life and godliness. We must learn what the Kingdom of heaven is all about and walk in a lifestyle of humility towards Him and others and He will provide what we need to fulfil His will. If we get things in the right order, life as God intended works out well.

34 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

33. Take therefore no thought for the morrow (c) “Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” (Matt 6:34).

Everything Jesus did was based on the ‘daily’ routine of listening and following His Father. This is the example He gave us to follow so that we focus on ‘today’ and doing what needs to be done, being in the moment. Tomorrow may well depend on what you do today and so we need confidence in God’s Almighty love and care for us his children. We must learn to stop projecting our fears into the future and so miss the opportunities of the ‘now’! We must fight the battles today against evil and believe that God holds our future.

34. Judge not, that ye be not judged (c) “Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” (Matt 7:1-2).

It is our human nature to make judgements about others, this is unavoidable, but what is crucial is the kind of ‘measure’ we use to do this. If we judge others harshly by external appearance or by academic prowess or other outward ‘measure’ we may be shocked to find that others and even God judge us back in the same way. Jesus again gives a warning of this to us in Matt 18:23 and the parable of the unmerciful servant. Mercy triumphs over judgement, so the more we show mercy the more will will receive it back, even from God himself.

35. First cast out the beam out of thine own eye (s) “Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.” (Matt 7:5) The key to being able to be merciful is to first realise how much mercy God has already shown you. It takes humility to humble ourselves and admit our own faults, blindness and ignorance and shear inability to truly help another without His grace. How easy it is to pick fault of others without truly knowing them or their circumstances and to make something small into something huge. However the Lord does want us to see clearly to help our brother as we should welcome others who want to help us. (see also Luke 6:42) 36. Give not that which is holy unto the dogs (p) “Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.” (Matt 7:6) omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

35

These words of Jesus were aimed towards the ‘gentiles’ and those who oppose the truth seem harsh, but he reveals a deep truth that sharing certain secrets about God’s Word can be abused by those whose agenda is to conquer your life no matter what you say or do for them. Discerning who to share your ‘pearls of wisdom’ with is an important skill to learn from the Lord who himself spoke in parables and only revealed the Kingdom secrets to the 12 apostles. He often refused to answer the Pharisees who sought to test him and catch him out.

Sometimes he told those healed not to tell anyone because he knew that this would stir up mass opposition and hinder the spreading of the gospel message.

The world today is also full of such people who are blinded by their pride and often controlled by demon spirits that will try to hinder us or even throw us into prison! We must be wise when faced with those who deliberately stand against us and pray for their deliverance.

37. Ask, Seek, and Knock (s) “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” (Matt 7:7) Contrary to some popular belief this is not about asking for ‘things’, but rather it’s about asking for spiritual wisdom, that is knowledge from heaven. God the father waits eagerly to give his Holy Spirit of grace to all those who ask, seek or knock on heavens door on behalf of others, looking for opportunities to serve and bless. This is all about true revelation, intercession and service.

“If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?” (Luke 11:13).

38. Do ye even so to them (p) “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.” (Matt 7:12) Probably one of the best known words of wisdom throughout the world is the principle of treating others how you would expect to be treated. We all expect to be loved, respected and helped and it’s only those who have been neglected, hurt and rejected who lash out against others. All God’s ways are designed to bring healing, health and restoration releasing life for all. Only those who harbour hate and greed are prepared to harm others to achieve their own aims.

The law is summed up in this: ‘love your neighbour as yourself’ because love does no harm to his neighbour.

36 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

39. Enter through the narrow gate (p) “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” (Matt 7:13-14) Entrance into the life of the kingdom of heaven is by one gate only - the man Jesus Christ. Compared to the mass of humanity that has existed since his resurrection the numbers of those who have known him personally through love and obedience is indeed few. Many follow other gods, religion or ignore spiritual realities altogether and miss the way to the Father of creation. They walk on the broad road of tolerance and political correctness where pleasing man is more important than pleasing God. The road that leads to life goes against this flow and requires discipline, perseverance and suffering for doing good. Denying yourself and obeying the Holy Spirit is the way we walk along the path of life.

40. Watch out for false prophets (p) “Watch out for false prophets.They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognise them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.Thus, by their fruit you will recognise them.” (Matt 7:15-20) When it comes to ‘prophets’ or any claiming to be religious ‘leaders’ we must not be distracted by apparent or claimed ‘gifting’ or ‘office’. False prophets claim to be from God, claim to be his followers. These are not those who are pagan or atheist. Like Judas these men come from within those who do, or did believe and follow, but as wolves they twist the truth for their own ends. This is the scheme of Satan to hinder the progress of the Kingdom message.

Jesus tells us to focus on the fruit of their lips and relationships, whether or not they are exploiting or extorting money from the flock. Disguised they pretend to care for the flock, but yet do very little or nothing to help them to be free in Christ. Quite often, like the Pharisees in Jesus time, they love money and live well on the sacrificial giving of the members whom they call ‘laity’. They often make great prophetic claims on future events which as yet have to be proven true. The Scriptures advise us to test every spirit to see if it is of God or not, so we should not be shy in questioning what people claim to be. If their name is up in lights or bigger than Jesus it’s pretty unlikely that they are from him. omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

37

41. Freely you have received, freely give (p) “He called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out evil spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.” (Matt 10:1) “Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received, freely give.” (Matt 10:8) First off this is NOT about giving money. This is about the Holy Spirit moving supernaturally in us to free us from darkness. Once we have received the power of the Kingdom into our own lives, and experienced the new birth in the Spirit, Jesus commands us to go and do likewise, sharing the power! This is not just a command to the apostles, but to all disciples.

The Holy Spirit and Kingdom power is poured into us, in order to give Christ’s freedom to others in need of deliverance or healing. This flow and demonstration of the power of God helps the needy realise that God is real and that he cares about their condition. As we freely co-operate with the Spirit we see the Kingdom of heaven manifest in the earth just as we have all prayed; ‘Your Kingdom come on earth as in heaven’. These demonstrations of Jesus power is only a foretaste of the true Kingdom to come.

42. Go and learn what this means: “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” (p) “But go and learn what this means:“I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” (Matt 9:13) One of our greatest enemies is ‘self righteousness’ when we think we are better than others, because we think what we do makes us better or more worthy than others. When we look down on others because they do not agree with us or have our viewpoint on a matter we are self righteous. If we do not learn what it means to genuinely show mercy to others we have missed the whole point of Jesus Christ. For most of us we must ‘learn’ what this means because it does not come naturally by the flesh, but only under the inspiration of the Spirit and an open heart. We must escape the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees who lord it over others.

43. Suffer little children to come unto me (d) “And they brought unto him also infants, that he would touch them: but when his disciples saw it, they rebuked them. But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.”

38 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

(Luke 18:15-17) Christ came to reveal the humility of the Father, he came to show us that it is us who need to change - God changes not! We need to flee from pride and become humble and trusting just like a small child trusts their parent. Without this He warns us that we will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Observe your children and how they trust their very selves to the parents and imitate their trust, but in God. 44. Take heed that ye despise not (p) “Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you,That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.”

(Matt 18:10).

Looking down on children and their contribution to the body of Christ is a huge error. Children are massively underestimated and hindered in the majority of organised gatherings. How conscious are we that they have angels that are continuously reporting to the Father in glory! The innocence of a child, the clear conscience of the child and their ability to accept the simplicity of faith and obedience should lead the adults back to the face of the Father. The place that God has ordained for the nurture and growth of these little ones is the secure Christian family environment. This explains why the world suffers with children going astray, like sheep without a shepherd (father).

45. Come unto me (s) “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

(Matt 11:28) No one else but Christ can give true rest and peace to the soul from weariness and burdens, however the condition is that we must come to him to receive.

Mankind tries to solve his own weary state by seeking rest from burdens through all forms of his own scheming. The sinful nature prefers the darkness to the light, prefers the lust of the flesh to the way of the Spirit, but there is no peace for the wicked who indulge in Satan’s way of pride. There is no other way to find true rest, because all things were made through Christ for Him and to glorify the Father of creation.

omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

39

46. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me (s) “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” (Matt 11:29) Twice Jesus counsels us to receive His rest for our souls, on this second occasion He reveals the two ways we find this rest. This statute is a choice we must make, we must ‘take his yoke’ and we must ‘learn from him’. This sounds like a lot to carry, but He concludes by saying; ‘for my yoke is easy and my burden is light.’ The work (yoke) of Christ is easy and not burdensome, because we can do nothing without Him. He knew that after the resurrection and the baptism of the Holy Spirit believers would be His new dwelling and temples for Him to work through. No-one can do the work of Christ - He has done it all through the cross - the burden he gives us is ‘light’. Light has no weight - He is the light, the revelation, He reveals the truth of all things. We are co-workers with Christ and not workers for Christ and He takes all the pressure and we must ‘be still and know that He is God’ (Psa 46:10) 47. Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees (p) “Be careful,’ Jesus said to them.‘Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” (Matt 16:6) Jesus tells his disciples that there is something we must guard against to avoid deception. The disciples understood that Jesus was referring to the doctrines or teachings of the Pharisees and Sadducees which had affected the society around them, spreading like yeast in bread. However, Jesus could see its negative effects puffing up these heretics with pride and enabling them to exploit God’s people by taxing (tithing) them of their hard earned money causing hardship.

They did this by insisting on additional rules and laws of various kinds and by re-interpreting the Scriptures for their own benefit. These two sects did not exist in the history of Israel until about 100 years before Jesus came. They added additional oppression to the judgement that God had already allowed upon His people through the Roman occupation and terrorism. They had taken Israel’s blindness to new lows. This angered Jesus as it angered the Father and it hindered the minds of the people from receiving the Kingdom of heaven. We must be clear on what these false teaching are and how to avoid them, so that we are not manipulated by greed and power.

40 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

48. Let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me (p) “Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” (Matt 16:24) An old English saying is; ‘don’t put the cart before the horse’ meaning of course that unless things are done in the right order there will be an accident!

In this precept Jesus points out that just ‘following’ is not enough to succeed.

First we must ‘deny ourself’. Selfishness of the flesh prevents us following correctly. Denying the flesh is a deliberate act of our will by choosing God’s holiness and separation from sin and the world’s ways. Then we must then ‘take up the cross’. This cross symbolises ‘obedience’ to what God tells you to do on a daily basis, it’s true faith in action, only then can we truly see to follow in his steps (see Phil 2:8). The good news is that we receive supernatural help from the Holy Spirit and are fed the knowledge of God as a sure reward for a life of joy, no matter what circumstances face us! At this point we experience walking in the Spirit and are a follower of Jesus in truth.

This complete victory over sin and the flesh is achieved through prayer, fasting, study and deliverance (sanctification). (see also Rom 6:6; Gal 2:20; 5:24) 49. If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault (p) “Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” (Matt 18:15-17) Jesus here reveals the merciful approach that should be adopted towards those who fall back into a binding sin, but also the responsibility each one has to help his brother see his error. The seriousness of sin is not diminished by this approach designed to save the one at fault. The first opportunity for mercy is between two brothers who are in Christian relationship, not just passing members of an institutional organisation.

In this process Jesus is seeking reconciliation and forgiveness providing three clear opportunities for genuine repentance to be engaged. This protects each member and also the purity of the body of Christ which is the witness to the world. Sadly in many institutions issues are often swept under the carpet to the detriment of the rest of the body and offends the Holy Spirit. Exclusion of an omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

41

unrepentant person is the final discipline towards a stubborn sinful person, in order to awaken their conscience to repentance. There must be no sin in the body of Christ, tolerating sin will grieve the Spirit and hinder blessing to the whole!

50. Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven (d) “Verily I say unto you,Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” (Matt 18:18) Jesus declared to Peter that the gates (authority) of hades would not prevail against his ekklesia (church), because he was to give him (and all true disciples) two essential kingdom keys. These keys defeat Satan and his demons through the work of Christ on the cross (Col 2:14-15). When we know our true position in Christ we rule with him over the kingdom of darkness by the Holy Spirit through us. Binding is for preventing the works of Satan, and loosing is for setting the captives free from his evil works. This authority is given by Jesus to all those who truly follow him as disciples. The kingdom of God comes upon the needy soul by the power of the Spirit as we co-work with Christ for this purpose.

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

(Matt 18:19) The key to answered prayer is not the length of prayer or fervency, but as Jesus explains when 2 or 3 gather ‘in his name’ then He is there with them. This needs deeper investigation because we are keen to see the Father answer our prayers.

Jesus is here talking about brothers who are wholehearted, committed disciples of Christ who have laid down their own lives and are fully dependent on Christ in all things. These two or three are those that desire only the will of the Father and are seeking to serve him only and not for any selfish gain. Remember for example Paul and Barnabas on their mission in Acts. The same with Peter and John in Jerusalem. Their prayers are for others, for the weak, needy and poor and desiring to see the Kingdom of God come in power. This is where Jesus dwells, in the midst of his faithful co-workers seeking to reach souls and feed the sheep His Word. This is what it means to be ‘in his name’ the name that has always existed, the Word that never perishes, the eternal God Yahweh! When brothers dwell together in the unity of the Godhead himself then answers flow (Psa 133).

42 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

52. Seventy times seven (p) “Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.” (Matt 18:21-22).

Forgiveness is at the heart of the gospel message, it is the very nature of God’s long-suffering. However forgiveness is only ever released on true repentance by faith in the sacrificial provision of the lamb of God - Jesus. This is the power of the cross where Christ died to take away the power of the Law which stood opposed to us by revealing our sinful condition. Without forgiveness God’s holy requirements cannot be met and so we would be subject to continual judgement. His mercy towards us in Christ enables this barrier to be removed, so that we can boldly approach Him without fear of death. It also means that once forgiven we can then forgive others for their trespass against us especially upon their repentance towards us. (see also Luke 6:37).

53. Forbid them not (p) “But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. And he laid his hands on them, and departed thence.”

(Matt 19:14-15).

Young children should have access to the truth and love of Christ from a very young age before the full corruption of the flesh can grab their affections and emotions. Jesus states that the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to such as these because they are able to express a pure and trusting faith. Trusting totally in Jesus should give us a confidence and security about life and our eternal future without fear or worry.

54. Go and sell that thou hast (s) “Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.”

(Matt 19:21).

Jesus shows that no self righteous acts of obeying the Law of Moses can bring justification before God. The young man was still lacking a true relationship with God. Jesus asked him to obey him by giving away the things most dear to his own life, his possessions, and then to literally follow him on the greatest adventure in history! But his heart was stuck where his treasure was (earthly possessions) and he did not choose life (Jesus). Possessions must not have us but we must use possessions to bless others in need so that there is equality. omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

43

This is the message of Jesus and the apostles. Paul warns us in 1 Timothy not to see godliness as a means to gain, or to run after riches which will make us vulnerable to Satan’s scheming and lead to grief. (1 Tim 6:3-10).

55. It shall not be so among you (s) “But Jesus called them unto him, and said,Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant” (Matt 20:26).

Back in the days of Samuel (the last Judge in Israel), the people demanded that they have a king just like the other nations around them. They grew tired of serving a God and king whom they could not see. However, by choosing this option they soon discovered that they lost many of their freedoms and liberties enjoyed under the reign of Samuel as prophet and judge. Just like the Gentile kings they discovered what it’s like to have someone ‘lord it over them’.

Although God allowed this to happen it displeased him. Jesus (the real King) brings this correction to His Kingdom revealing that we are to be servants laying down our lives to lift others up - not to reign over them. Rather than a hierarchy system Jesus re-introduces the heavenly sovereignty of God alone which is based on service, not position. Although we do not see him we believe in his Lordship over all things. He guides through Apostles, Prophets, Pastors and Teachers, so that we are able to hear the Spirit and live!

56. My house shall be called a house of prayer (d) “And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.” (Matt 21:13; John 2:16; Isaiah 56:7).

An often quoted scripture in its first part, but not considered in context. How did the Jews of Jesus day make the holy temple of God a den of thieves? The ‘entrepreneurial’ among them (permitted by the Pharisees and those who ‘ran’ the temple orders) were permitted to make profits out of those who were coming to repent and pray to God the Father and to make an animal offering prescribed by the Law for their sin. We see ‘money changers’ because, in order to purchase the required animals to sacrifice, visitors would have to use a particular currency (temple shekel). People came to the temple from all the nations around on pilgrimage and so had differing currencies and they needed to buy animals once they arrived. This was permitted in the Law (Deut 25:2426; Isaiah 56:6-8), but the temple authorities abused this law and made profits 44 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

by charging for their money exchanging and selling animals inside the temple at high prices! - this angered God and Jesus expressed this anger at the beginning of his ministry (John 2:16) and then near to the end of his ministry (Matt 21:13). These men were using the requirements of God as a means to financial gain and the Pharisees and lawyers all benefitted from it. Paul the apostle to the gentiles warns of this same spirit coming into Christ’s body in the last days (1 Tim 6:5). The distinguishing quality of the genuine body of Christ is that they are constantly in prayer, both personally and communally, that this is the main activity of those seeking His perfect will and the joy of the true church - to know Him and His presence. We must beware those who charge for the preaching of the Gospel. Freely we have received, freely give (Matt 10:8).

57. Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s (p) “Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s.” (Matt 22:21).

The disciples of the Pharisees and Herodians went out to try and trap Jesus in order to get him arrested by the Romans for not paying tax. However Jesus uses the opportunity to point out a very important truth - he reveals the two kingdoms in the earth and how they operate. The first, the earthly kingdom, works by using ‘money’ with the ‘image’ and ‘inscription’ of an earthly ‘king’.

The second is God’s kingdom which operates on the complete opposite principle, a heavenly king who takes on the role of a servant of no reputation to clear debts of sin owed to the Father! No charge! (Isaiah 55).

God’s kingdom does not depend upon money or any of man’s ways, solutions or plans, but we must give back to Him alone all reverence and praise. God owns all things and has no need of our money and can supply any thing that you might need to serve him and live while here on the earth. Caesar will demand your time, your money your life!

58. Do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not (p) “Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples, Saying The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat: All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not. For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.” (Matt 23:1-4).

The leadership of Israel (under Roman rule) had devised a stone seat in each synagogue of the land on which judgements would be made concerning the omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

45

community. However as Jesus points out that these additional rules and demands placed on people were not burdens from God. So, Jesus commands us not to do this to people, but rather we should carry one an others burdens (James 2:14; Gal 6:2).

59. Be not ye called Rabbi (c) “But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren.”

(Matt 23:8) In this command Jesus reveals a huge amount about the structure of His church with respect to the Kingdom and how we must view one another within it.

Firstly, Jesus makes clear (if any doubt) that He alone is the Master or Teacher there can be only one ‘Rabbi’. This clearly reveals that no man has the right over any other with regard to the teaching of revelatory truth and should not assume this role. Secondly he states that as His followers we are all brothers and on an equal footing under His direction and inspiration. By calling oneself ‘Rabbi’ or ‘Teacher’ will be interpreted by Jesus as rebellion.

60. And call no man your father upon the earth (c) “And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.”

(Matt 23:9) When it comes to titles and authority Jesus is quite clear that there can be only one who is recognised as over all mankind - the Father in heaven,Yahweh. Many men have tried to usurp this position and claimed to be ‘fathers’ over others in place of God. However, our earthly fathers can never provide the grace and power that comes from the Almighty in heaven! Again anyone claiming the title of Father on earth will be judged most severely.

61. Neither be ye called masters (c) “Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. (Matt 23:10).

Jesus of Nazareth was anointed with the Holy Spirit as Messiah or Christ and it is the Spirit that teaches the will of the Father by reminding us of what Jesus has said (John 14:26). Revelation comes from the Word of God and each one can receive Truth by the Spirit who dwells in those who believe. This makes Christ the only true Master and Lord, but thankfully he is a God of love and grace who commands us for our blessing. It means that we must not trust in any man, but only in the Lord.

46 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

62. Whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased (d) “But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.” (Matt 23:10).

The Kingdom of God is not about being in charge over others, that’s the world’s way, rather it’s about becoming a servant to those in need - whatever that need is. Jesus demonstrated this style of ‘leading by example’ and exhorts us to imitate him and to humble ourselves. By focussing on being a servant and not trying to outdo others, but rather serve others as he leads, God the Father will ensure that we are ourselves provided for by His grace. The apostle Paul also guides us into this same spirit of servanthood when he said, “For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord’s freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ’s servant.Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.” (1 Corin 7:22-23). Ordinary men will try to enslave us to their ways for their benefit, but serving Christ sets us free from selfish ambition and sins deceitfulness.

63. Cleanse first that which is within (s) “‘Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also.”

(Matt 23:25-26).

Man looks to the outward, but God looks at the heart. Jesus rebukes the Pharisees on a few occasions because they focus on outward rules rather than inward obedience to God. The Kingdom of God has always worked from the inside out and the Good News of the Gospel is that Jesus can enter into our hearts, so that we are born again from the inside. If we still have greed and selfindulgence in our hearts it’s possible that Christ does not dwell in us and we are spiritually blind. Paul also exhorts us in his letter to the Corinthians saying, “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” (2 Corin 7:1). The clear implication from both Jesus and Paul is that we can choose to be clean on the inside by faith in the power of the Word and by rejecting evil. Trying to perfect the outside to clean the inside is what the Scriptures call ‘works of law’. This is where we try to restrain sin and rebellion by making laws and punishments. This is what God did to Israel after they had rejected him at Sinai. Only those who humbled themselves and believed we able to be saved from within. When the inside is clean the outside becomes clean also. omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

47

64. Take heed that no man deceive you (p) “And Jesus answered and said unto them,Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.” (Matt 24:4).

This warning from Jesus our Messiah is given in the context of the last days apostasy and the signs of the end of the age. He says that ‘many’ will be deceived by those claiming to be ‘Christ’ and more than at any other time in history we see this phenomenon occurring around the globe. If we become casual in our watching and praying there is the danger of also being effected by these deceivers who claim to represent God on earth. Already millions are following these false prophets and are being fleeced of their livelyhood! (2 Corin 11) 65. Now learn a parable of the fig tree (p) “Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.” (Matt 24:32-33).

Jesus had just spoken of the signs of His coming again - the birth pangs - times of global tribulation never before seen in history. He tells us that when we see ALL these things together we know that it is near, right at the door. Surely these are those days and a time for us to humble ourselves to pray and watch, time to purify ourselves as His bride making our lamps bright with the oil of the Truth.

We must learn this lesson or perhaps suffer loss! “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” (Matt 24:42).

66. Be ye also ready (p) “Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.”

(Matt 24:44).

Being ready and prepared for the Lord’s return applies to all believers through the ages past and in this present evil age (last days). Those who fell asleep in the Lord before us prepared themselves by faith, sanctified and made holy by grace, sowing their bodies in faith, so that when He returns they will return to earth and be raised up with him. (Rev 20, 1 Corin 15:42). Only those who are prepared will not be taken by surprise when He returns (1 Pet 3:12).

48 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

67. Take, eat; this is my body (s) “And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said,Take, eat; this is my body.” (Matt 26:26).

On the first day in the feast of unleavened bread, an evening meal began seven days of feasting without leaven (yeast). Symbolically Jesus takes this unleavened bread (at the start of the meal) dips it into the bitter sop and gives it to Judas who leaves the room to betray him. In this way Jesus cleanses the group from the leaven of the Pharisees which Judas had agreed to obey (Matt 16:12). He then shares with the disciples that this ‘unleavened’ bread i.e. himself, symbolises His new new promise for the forgiveness of sins by faith in His bodily sacrifice. Jesus is the true bread that came down from heaven. His Spirit is supernatural food that feeds the inner man, rather than the flesh (John 6:33; 63).

68. Drink ye all of it (s) “And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.”

(Matt 26:27-28).

Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins (Heb 9:22). God’s justice demands that all sin be paid for by death and the outpouring of life blood, because all sin originates with Satan and his rebellious hordes who have now been judged by Christ. Until we are cleansed by faith in his blood we cannot escape the fate of Adam’s race which is allied to Satan. The blood of Jesus was pure and holy, so it sanctifies us when we symbolically drink it by faith. His body symbolises the Word of God and His blood the Spirit of God. We must eat and drink ALL of it to be fully his. Whenever we eat together we must remember this truth and celebrate that we have become his flesh and bones in the earth at this time (Eph 5:30).

69. Tarry ye here, and watch with me (p) “Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me. And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.”

(Matt 26:38-39).

Jesus always knew that he would go to the cross and take the cup of God’s wrath and punishment for the sin of Israel and the world. This occasion for prayer is yet another teaching by him for the disciples. ‘Tarry (stay) here and keep watch with me’ was Jesus invitation to the apostles as he modelled the inner struggle to obey the omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

49

spirit no matter what, and to submit to the will of the Father, no matter what.

There is no other way but to carry the cross of obedience that the Father gives to each one of us and the final rewards are beyond our imagination! He showed that we must humble ourselves and prostrate before him in prayer at these times!

70. Watch and pray (p) “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Matt 26:41).

Again Jesus explains to the apostles that watching and praying is not an option, but essential in order to focus on the Spirit and overcome the temptations of the weak flesh. Plus, this was late at night as they were tiring and wanting desperately to sleep. But they were soon awake when the soldiers arrived to take Jesus away! It was their worst nightmare, but Jesus was prepared and knew exactly what was to happen next. We must keep alert and watch and pray continually to be ready and strong for any random temptation or trial.Yielding to any sin is not acceptable in the Kingdom of God. Sin must be overcome, dealt with and removed. We must ‘be holy, as I am holy, says the Lord’. His grace is available, but we must daily access it through the Word and Prayer. We must be as disciplined as a soldier and resist the evil arrows that come against us with the shield of faith.

71. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations (c) “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” (Matt 28:19-20).

Commonly called the great commission, the resurrected Jesus as Lord of all commands the apostles to share in his ministry by also making disciples. In this case not just from Israel, but now the nations of the world. They are told to do two key things: 1. Immersion (Baptizo) is the first key as this is how we enter into Christ’s death, burial and resurrection life by faith (Rom 6). This baptism is unique in that it gives us entrance to the Kingdom of the Godhead; Father, Son and Spirit. 2. Once in this position the soul can obey the commands of Jesus and bring us into reality and the knowledge of God. As we obey this mission Jesus is with us every day to reach the lost - his great mission. This is the work of the church - to save souls from damnation. These two foundations form the essential purpose of the Kingdom message and the apostolic mission of the church.

50 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

72. Abide in Me, and I in you (s) “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.” (John 15:4).

Jesus is continuously using agricultural metaphors and similes to explain the relationships of heaven and in this case he reveals that in order for the believer to bear the kind of fruit that the Father wants they must be continually connected and fed. The vine is a prolific grower and will grow out of control and bear little usable fruit unless from time to time it is trimmed back. This true vine is the heavenly vine and the sap the supernatural presence of the Almighty by His Spirit because God is looking for supernatural fruit! Abiding in him is abiding in his Word and allowing the Spirit of life to nourish your spirit, soul and body to eternal life.

73. Forbid him not (s) “And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us. But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me. For he that is not against us is on our part.” (Mark 9:38-40).

This is a fascinating situation where the disciples feel a sense of competition from others who appear to be imitating the ministry of miracles (Driving out demons). Jesus however is not offended, but sees the advantage of Satan’s demise and the fact that these others will not oppose the kingdom message of deliverance from evil. As believers we must not be overly concerned by those who do things differently to us in ministry if people are freed. Jesus and the apostles teach that we must not judge before the time, because God can move in mysterious ways!

“Who art thou that judgest another man’s servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth.

Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.” (Rom 14:4) 74. Have Faith in God (p) “And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. For verily I say unto you,That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.” (Mark 11:22-23).

Jesus reveals that it is the spiritual realm of faith that overrules the natural realm of creation. He knew that whatever he commanded would have to obey him, omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

51

even if some things take time to manifest. As followers of Christ, and as new creatures in Christ, we need to realise the power and authority of our words for good or for bad. If we are confident before God with a clear conscience, we can ask boldly anything of the Father and he will hear us. Any doubt at all of this and what we say or command will not happen, as it’s unlikely to be inspired by the Father, but by our own lust for things in the earthly realm. (James 4:3).

“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (Rom 10:17) 75. Believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them (s) “I say unto you,What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” (Mark 11:24) The key phrase here is ‘when ye pray’. Jesus is making it clear that only when we are in a place of genuine prayer and communion will we be heard. If we are in constant communion with the Father, as he was, will we hear the Father’s will and speak it with confidence because ‘faith comes by hearing’. We must focus on hearing rather than seeing before we believe. Paul expresses this when he says: ‘We live by faith and not by sight’ (2 Corin 5:7). Are we living in this way or are we merely hoping? Hope does not bring change only asking in faith! (Luke 18:8 see Also Matt 8:10-13).

76. Have salt in yourselves (p) “Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his saltness, wherewith will ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another.” (Mark 9:50).

In the Jewish culture salt was used in many ways, but it’s most important use was in the offerings at the tabernacle and temple worship: “And every oblation of thy meat offering shalt thou season with salt; neither shalt thou suffer the salt of the covenant of thy God to be lacking from thy meat offering: with all thine offerings thou shalt offer salt.” (Lev 2:13) Salt symbolises, purity and peace which are all characteristics that Jesus seeks in his followers, without these he declares, “it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.” (Matt 5:14). This is entirely what happened to the Jews in AD 70 when the old covenant temple was destroyed and the people dispersed among the nations in accordance with the conditions of the Law. They were indeed trampled under foot of men because they refused to be cleansed with the salt - Christ.

52 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

77. Fear not thou shalt catch men(d) “And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.”

(Luke 5:10).

Even after a great catch of fish and a massive boost to his fishing business Simon Peter realises that a greater opportunity was before him, as Jesus himself decreed that he will catch men. Fear is the biggest stumbling block to achieving the Father’s purposes in the earth. It can also be the wrong motivation for why we work hard trying (all night) to make a profit. Jesus is setting Peter free from this old mind-set and helping him realise that life is about following the Spirit of Jesus and not business and running after money. All things are provided for our benefit, but we must no allow business to be the purpose of life. It’s not the economy - that’s stupid! People are always more valuable than any worldly thing, because we are made in his image and for his pleasure. If men are not caught by the net of the kingdom message they will perish. This take time, energy and sacrifices, but has eternal benefits.

78. In those days they will fast (d) “Jesus answered,‘Can you make the friends of the bridegroom fast while he is with them? But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; in those days they will fast.’”

(Luke 5:35).

In Scripture fasting (and sackcloth and ashes) are revealed as the God given way to show remorse and mourning for our sinful ways. It is a way to deliberately humble our carnal flesh before Him, by denying the natural lusts of the body and praying for mercy upon our corrupted soul. Jesus himself showed that this is the way to victory over sin. He was drawn by the Spirit into the Judean wilderness prior to His ministry. Here he denied the flesh for 40 days suffering a great hunger. Jesus makes it plain that overcoming Satan requires 3 things. The Word of God, The Word of God and the Word of God! True fasting is about hearing the Word and then doing it. (see Isa 58). Fasting must be seen as a normal part of being a follower of Christ and Paul speaks of this in his letter to the Romans exhorting us to deny the desires of the flesh (physical body/feelings): “For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.” (Rom 8:13) (see also 1 Corin 7:5; 2 Corin 11:27; Acts 14:23). Our flesh will always try to draw us away from the Word of God and so we must deliberately seek to keep it our body under the control of the Spirit of grace. “And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.”

(Gal 5:24). Have you done this yet? Fasting is the way to do it - go for it! omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

53

79. Condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned (s) “Condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:” (Luke 6:37).

Right at the heart of the famous ‘sermon on the mountain’ Jesus challenges our heart motives yet again, but also reveals the powerful spiritual laws of sowing and reaping. All of nature reveals the principles of seed and harvest and this reflects the reality of the spirit realm. Here we are warned not to condemn others, for whatever reason be it race, creed, age, sex, ability, weakness etc, because by looking down upon people in this way we condemn ourselves before an holy God and become hypocritical. No-one can claim perfection except God’s Son Jesus Christ and as such we are all guilty of error and of failure - and yet He does not condemn us, but offers us the free gift of His Grace to change.

This power of the Spirit is what enables true transformation into his likeness, so that whatever sin condemns us, it is defeated, and we are lifted into life both now and into eternity. (Psalm 14). We do not have the authority to condemn others as we never know all the facts about their situation (see Job 1:22).

At the core of the Christian gospel is the need for forgiveness. Forgiveness defeats evil, it defeats Satan’s schemes which seek revenge. However, forgiveness always comes at a price. Jesus paid the ultimate price, so that we can receive God’s forgiveness for our rebellion against his holiness. Forgiving requires humility of heart, to show mercy on someone who has either made a mistake or even deliberately sinned against us. The genuineness of the plea can only be determined by God who alone sees the heart. Most people live in darkness and do not know why they do what they do. This was even the case when they crucified Jesus!

“And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.

And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God.” (Luke 23:33-35) 80. Give, and it shall be given (s) “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.” (Luke 6:38).

Again we see the principles of sowing and reaping, that goodness towards others 54 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

is not forgotten by the Almighty. Proverbs also declares that the ‘generous man will prosper’ and we find this so true. Greater opportunities often open up to us to be blessed materially and spiritually because of generosity (righteousness).

Withholding from those in need is greatly frowned upon by the creator, who gives generously to all, enabling us to be stewards who can willingly forward the blessing on. Greed is the deliberate blockage to this flow of supply to those who are obviously in need of help and so it is rightly seen as a great evil, worthy even of hell itself!

“But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation. Woe unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! for ye shall mourn and weep.”

(Luke 6:20-21) 81. Take heed how ye hear (s) “For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad.Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have.”

(Luke 8:18).

Jesus is here talking about a particular type of believer, the good soil; ‘But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.’

The Father is looking for a harvest of good fruit with patience from those who hear the Word of God correctly and keep it. It’s not just in the hearing, but in the keeping that matters as this signifies that a good heart of obedience exists inside.

It’s not about what one has externally, but what dwells within and will extend into eternity - the Word of God. He who has the Spirit has a deposit of greater things to come when we endure to the end and by faith plant ourselves in death, believing for the day of resurrection and a reward beyond the imagination!

“Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” (2 Tim 4:8) 82. Take nothing for the journey (c) “Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick. And he said unto them,Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither have two coats apiece.” (Luke 9:3). omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

55

Jesus taught his Twelve that nothing else is needed to see God’s will performed in this world. God only needs our willing obedience and full trust in him to provide any need arising. The great delusion today is to think that God needs any of these items to achieve his purposes in the earth. All that is needed is to proclaim the Kingdom and power of Jesus Christ and to demonstrate this power and love for the needy lost and He does the rest. This is what it means to seek first the Kingdom and his righteousness.

83. There abide, and thence depart (c) “And whatsoever house ye enter into, there abide, and thence depart.” (Luke 9:4).

As a clear part of their mission to the Jews the apostles were being trained in the apostolic work of converting whole homes and establishing them for the kingdom. This is still the way God desires to see his body the church grow in the world, house by house. Up until 300 AD (before Constantine) this is how the church assemblies grew. The great falling away that Paul predicted happened as Jesus prophesied it would. Evil reigned over the earth 1260 years through the Papacy and Islam. The truth made a small resurgence after the reformation period, but now the ‘beast’ kingdom has arisen again to deceive the whole earth into ecumenism, pantheism and a new world government. As believers we must retreat from serving organisations and go back to our homes and abide there in Christ looking for his return.

84.You give them something to eat (c) “Late in the afternoon the Twelve came to him and said,‘Send the crowd away so they can go to the surrounding villages and countryside and find food and lodging, because we are in a remote place here.’ He replied,‘You give them something to eat.’They answered,‘We have only five loaves of bread and two fish – unless we go and buy food for all this crowd.’ (About five thousand men were there.)” (Luke 9:12-13).

Jesus gave this command to the apostles in training to test their faith and open their eyes to who Jesus really was. Jesus knew that they could not meet this need and knew how he was going to show his glory through a food multiplication miracle. He never asks us to do something possible, but impossible so that we see his power and glory. Jesus also knew that one day these apostles in training would be as anointed as himself and do even greater works than these. Jesus spoke these restorative words to Peter after the resurrection and before the Holy Spirit came when he said: “He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved 56 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.”

(John 21:17) Again Jesus asks Peter to do the impossible thing, but this time Peter knew that without Christ dwelling in him this would not be possible.

85. Shake off the very dust from your feet for testimony against them (p) “And whosoever will not receive you, when ye go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet for a testimony against them.” (Luke 9:5).

It’s enough for a town a city and a land to hear the true message of the kingdom once, to see the demonstration and healing and miracles and then they must accept or reject, to be subject to blessing or judgement. Jesus does not expect us as his servants to force the gospel on anyone, but if they forcefully reject the truth we must move on to the next people group. This seems harsh, but Jesus says it’s a ‘testimony’ against them which when they see the blessings on the next people hopefully leads to repentance.

86. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest (p) “After these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself would come.Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.” (Luke 10:2) Every field of crops needs to be tended in order for a healthy crop to grow and in a similar way Jesus sends out his workers into the field of the world to sow the seed of the Word of His Kingdom to come. As disciples we are to pray for workers to be physically sent, even in these days of technological connections.

There is no substitute for real people meeting and reaching those dead in their sins. The mission of the church is the mission of Jesus - to reach out to the nations with the good news of the kingdom and the warning of the judgement to come, face-to-face.

87. Go your ways: behold I send you forth as lambs among wolves (p) “Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves.” (Luke 10:3) First Jesus enables us, but second he sends us out into the corrupt world to be his witnesses. However, as he implies, it’s a dangerous situation that faces us because we are like lambs among wolves, that is, we are totally defenceless apart from God’s power to save us. The world will hate us and want to kill us because omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

57

we reveal the truth regarding the Lamb of God, who convicts of sin, (but who also provides the way of forgiveness). This is the grace of God in action as we offer ourselves as a sacrifice for his purpose. When we see his power in our weakness we give all the glory and praise to him and learn that he alone is good and our strong defence!

88. Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes (p) “Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes: and salute no man by the way” (Luke 10:4).

When Jesus sends out his apostles on mission he does not want them to trust in anything other than Him and His provision. Reaching the lost does not depend on any earthly method. But where is he sending them? Not to the streets this time, but rather in search of a man of peace.

89. First say, Peace be to this house (p) ‘‘And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house. And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it: if not, it shall turn to you again.”

(Luke 10:5-6).

Christ’s strategy for apostles reaching new areas is to find the ‘good soil’, a house of peace where He can dwell with a man or ‘son of peace’. It also reveals that the church’s most effective place of meeting is in the home of peace with the family of believers. He places his blood upon their doorway just as they did during the passover thousands of years before. The Father seeks to dwell with us and eat with us in both our hearts and our homes.

“Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.”

(Rev 3:20-22) 90. In the same house remain, eating and drinking (s) “And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire” (Luke 10:7a) Those who serve the Lord through apostolic outreach are not paid with money, but rather with food and drink to sustain their witness and service of grace to that household and beyond. This was the reward of the Levites in the Tabernacle and Paul also makes this clear in his letters (see 1 Tim 6:8; 1 Corin 9:13).

All finance raised should be used to promote mission and to feed the needy, 58 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

especially the believers in poverty stricken circumstances. There is a punishment for hoarding wealth in the last days (James 5:3).

91. Go not from house to house (p) “Go not from house to house” (Luke 10:7b) Again we see Jesus give instruction to his apostles or ‘sent ones’ on how to establish his church in the house of everyone who is willing. He commands that when a door opens we must stay and serve them there and establish the peace of the Spirit. Teaching them to obey all that Jesus told us until they are mature in the knowledge of God and filled with the Spirit. Once this has been achieved the apostle can move onwards to the next place.

92. Eat such things as are set before you (p) “And into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you” (Luke 10:8) The church planting apostle cannot be fussy about food, but be grateful for the provision of their needs by their host. The Bible reveals that this is the ‘wages’ of an apostle to keep them alive while they minister (1 Tim 6:8). Elijah was fed ‘meat’ and ‘bread’ by the Ravens whilst many others died of starvation during a severe drought (1 Kings 17:7).

93. Heal the sick that are there (p) “And heal the sick that are therein, and say unto them,The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.” (Luke 10:9).

Jesus commanded the apostles to share in his mission to destroy the work of Satan and to heal the sick telling them that this is the Kingdom of God coming near to them, that is ‘heaven coming to earth’ in a way we can see. Every mission and outreach should include prayer for the sick and faith that God will bring his Kingdom upon them. Our lack of faith and misunderstanding of how Christ’s power must work through us can be a hindrance to this happening. Jesus reveals that we must fast and seek the answer (Mark 9:29). We must not deny the power of the kingdom but demonstrate that God is Lord of all.

94. Go your ways out into the streets (p) “But into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you not, go your ways out into the streets of the same, and say, Even the very dust of your city, which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off against you: notwithstanding be ye sure of this, that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

59

you.” (Luke 10:10-11) Through the apostolic church outreach to the whole world God gives every place and every person the chance to repent and turn towards him, however if that generation choose not to repent as a warning towards them we must leave them and move on, rather than try and stay and persuade them against their will.

If there is time God will find another way to try and awaken them to their folly.

95. It shall be more tolerable in that day for Sodom (d) “But I say unto you, that it shall be more tolerable in that day for Sodom, than for that city.”

(Luke 10:12).

God looks upon towns and cities as a body of people in a society. If that place overall rejects the wise council of God and the witness of Jesus gospel there is the danger of severe judgement. This is what has happened to Capernaum which now lies in ruins because it rejected Jesus and his miracle works. The example given of Sodom should jolt awake those revelling in their sinful lifestyles.

There are degrees of judgement and suffering at the end of the ages in line with the level of rejection and truth given. To whom much is given, much is required!

96. Rejoice that your names are written in heaven (p) “However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.’” (Luke 10:18-20).

Again Jesus prioritises our thinking and reveals that the most important thing is to have your name written in heaven. Having power over evil spirits or even people has an appearance of importance but it’s not the goal, rather we must always remember that it all comes from him in heaven.

97. Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents (d) “Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” (Luke 10:19) What is this power that Jesus gives to the born again believer? It is the same Holy Spirit that was with Jesus as he opposed the evils of his day. Satan has no defence against the Sword of God’s Word when empowered by the Spirit of grace and power! Jesus came casting out devils and healing the sick afflicted by serpents and scorpions (demons). The ability of God in a believer to overcome Satan is a strong evidence that we are serving him (Mark 16:17).

60 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

98. Go and do thou likewise (c) “And he said, He that shewed mercy on him.Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.” (Luke 10:37).

The Father has said, ‘I require mercy not sacrifice’ and Jesus brings the same message, that we must not only accept, but also put into practice by showing mercy to fellow human beings, especially those in the faith. It is hard for God to show mercy towards us if we take no care for our fellow man and harden our conscience.

99. Take heed that the light which is in thee be not darkness (p) “ The light of the body is the eye: therefore when thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light; but when thine eye is evil, thy body also is full of darkness.Take heed therefore that the light which is in thee be not darkness.” (Luke 11:35).

Jesus reveals a vital spiritual truth on how true spiritual light, or revelation, enters into our soul and spirit. The eyes and what they look upon and focus upon greatly affects our inner self, we are literally what we read and look upon! More importantly he tells us that we are responsible, ‘see to it then’ implies that we must make the effort and give our attention to it. We must compare our heart and actions with Scripture to ensure that whatever is in us is not deception, darkness. This means taking time to search the Scriptures thoroughly and seeking the wisdom of the Holy Spirit. Jesus is the Truth, so that we have a foundation against which to compare our beliefs. He is the light of heavenly light.

100. Give alms of such things as ye have (s) “ And the Lord said unto him, Now do ye Pharisees make clean the outside of the cup and the platter; but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness.Ye fools, did not he that made that which is without make that which is within also? But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you.”

(Luke 11:39-41).

It was the love of money that was ruining the heart of the Pharisees in the time of Christ and he often pointed to their corruption, however he also gives them the solution - ‘give alms’ or ‘be generous’ to the poor.Yet again he passes the responsibility back to them encouraging repentance as the solution. God never points out sin or corruption without giving the remedy to it, even to the most wicked. Such is the patience and mercy of God our Father who wants to save us from our own blindness. omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

61

101. Beware the leaven of the Pharisees (p) “In the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.”

(Luke 12:1).

Jesus equates the teachings and lifestyle of the Pharisees with yeast as this too permeates people and society (mostly unnoticed as does yeast in bread), both designed to puff up! Their hypocritical teaching affects the culture by promoting the hierarchy of the religious people. Hypocrisy is claiming to have the truth but not actually living it out. This is one of the few things Jesus warns his disciples to ‘guard against’ because of its ultimate deadly consequences - hell fire!

102. Do not be afraid of them that kill the body (p) “‘And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.” (Luke 12:4).

Jesus was the most fearless man that ever lived on earth and commands us to trust in him and fear no man, even though they may be permitted to kill the fleshly tent in which we live. The gospel teaches us that death of the flesh is not the death of the soul and spirit which live on to face judgement at the resurrection. When we know Jesus by his Spirit in us we can be assured that, even if we die, we will be better off. This is a mystery to the natural man who sees only this life on earth and cannot see into eternity. (see Revelation 2:1012) 103. I say unto you, Fear him (p) “But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him. Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.”

(Luke 12:5-7).

Jesus main concern for all our souls is our destiny in eternity and with this in mind he persuades us that any fear should be directed toward respect for the power of Jesus himself, who has power to cast his enemies into hell along with Satan and his angels at the final judgement! This kind of fear (respect) is the beginning of wisdom and drives us to our knees to know God. Once we know him, and realise our salvation, our human fears subside as we know that he truly loves us in Christ and is then for us and not against us.

62 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

104. Take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer (p) “And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say: For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.” (Luke 12:11-12).

It’s easy to become defensive regarding our faith when the unbeliever tries to use fine sounding arguments to draw us away from the truth we know. As history shows that they may well turn to more physical restraints in order prevent us from speaking in the name of Jesus. In every case this word from Jesus has come true and the Holy Spirit has given appropriate testimony of the truth. None of us know whether we will be called upon to testify before rulers and authorities, but we must be calm and not worry when that time approaches. The Holy Spirit will certainly intervene on such occasions leaving the enemies of God in no doubt that they shall be rewarded for their unbelief.

105. Take heed, and beware of covetousness (p) “And he said unto them,Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.” (Luke 12:15).

Jesus gives another warning to those who will be his true followers that covetousness, ‘all kinds of greed’, are designed to choke the truth in our souls and spirits. Looking back to the parable of the sower we see that this choking means the hearer is unfruitful. Greed of all kinds are in the world that appeal to the lusts of the flesh and using deception and temptation to cause us to trust in and desire possessions. But our identity is not in possessions or their abundance and so we must guard against such lies.Yielding to the lusts of covetousness will lead to destruction even for those who once believed!

106. Fear not, little flock (d) “‘Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom” (Luke 12:32).

With all the pressures around Christians in the world then and now, Jesus word encourages us to cast off fear, because the Father himself wants to give us the ‘heavenly kingdom’ and all of its benefits, both now and forever. We are told to fix our minds on things above and not those on the earth and get this earth and world into perspective. The kingdom is available to the believer NOW, by the Spirit and faith in our reborn spirit. Your kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven is answered daily through the Holy Spirit until Jesus returns in person. The Kingdom is now invisible (in us), but then will become visible after he returns. omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

63

107. Provide yourselves bags which wax not old (s) “Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.” (Luke 12:33).

The call goes out from Jesus to remove possessions from your life if they are hindering your obedience to follow him wholeheartedly. Certainly we can all live with a lot less than we do and have greater compassion for the poor in the world, especially if they are believers. Not only do we help needy people here, but Jesus promises a further reward when we enter the heavenly kingdom, a treasure in heaven. Every genuine sacrifice is rewarded by the Father who gives generously to all. He call us to be like him drawing on eternal resources.

108. Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning (s) “Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning; And ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately.” (Luke 12:35-36).

We must keep the lamp of our spirit alive and well, by His Holy Spirit and Scriptures as we wait for Him, in order not to be caught out at His appearing in glory. We must be dressed in purity and holiness with a servant heart towards all men coming from a heart that’s watching for it’s master to return. He may or may not come in our lifetime, but even so come Lord Jesus!

109. Be ye therefore ready (p) “Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.” (Luke 12:40).

Jesus clearly states that we must be ready to receive him at his return, implying that if we are not there may be a heavy price to pay. If we are not watching correctly he will seem to come at an hour unknown to us. We should not let that hour take us by surprise but be aware and sober minded. (see 1 Thess 5).

110. Except ye repent (s) “And Jesus answering said unto them, Suppose ye that these Galilaeans were sinners above all the Galilaeans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” (Luke 13:2-3).

It’s God’s will that none should perish and so he brings his prophets and messengers to warn of any impending judgements upon a people. Failure to 64 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

respond in repentance will ultimately lead to a disaster and people perishing from the earth before their allotted time. When disaster strikes it should be taken as a warning that destruction will come on the unrepentant. (see Jonah 3).

111. Go and sit down in the lowest room (s) “But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee.” (Luke 14:10).

Jesus uses the example of taking the lowest place when invited to a social function to explain the attitude we should have before him. Pride and self importance are not the way of Christ, but rather we are commanded to humble ourselves and if it be his will and purpose he will raise us up in due time.

112. Call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind (s) “Then said he also to him that bade him,When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee. But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind: And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.”

(Luke 14:12-14).

Jesus’ concern for us is always that we are blessed by the Father in heaven and that we build for ourselves ‘treasure in heaven’. This treasure will be given to us when he returns for the second time to give rewards. No good deed we do in the name of Christ will be forgotten but as proverbs says, ‘Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done’. (Prov 19:17).

113. If any man come to me (d) “If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:26).

God is love and his will for us is always the best, even though short term it can appear the opposite to our carnal self. Most translations use the word ‘hate’ in this passage, but the Greek word, in this context, ‘miseó’ is better interpreted ‘to esteem less’. Obviously Jesus expects us to love all our relatives, but this must not be at the expense of disobeying him. He must be first and his work of obedience - the cross, is an example of the sacrificial life we should follow for his sake. Without this approach to life we are simply not one of his disciples! The omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

65

family that counts into eternity is our spiritual family headed by Christ, as this is the one that extends after this life into eternity. Jesus and the apostles all left their old lives behind to follow and achieve God’s will - saving the lost sheep!

114. Whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all (d) “So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:33).

The word ‘all’ here is referring to ‘possessions’ and Jesus is referring back to his earlier teaching that ‘a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions’.

If we think the gospel is about gaining wealth and possessions in this life we will be ‘unteachable’ in the true riches of Christ. It’s better to sell our possessions, or better give them to the poor, than for these ‘things’ to consume our purpose for living or preaching. We must moderate what we possess and what we desire, not being trapped by all kinds of greed and a lust for more. The world without Christ is destroying itself by chasing after more and more, but we are not to be of that way. Jesus Christ and the Apostles are our example of holy living showing we must forsake all such greed. Without this correct attitude we will fail to be a disciple and what a tragedy this will be for many who thought they were Christians pleasing God by tithing for gain.

115. He that hath ears to hear (p) “He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.” (Luke 14:35b).

On many occasions Jesus ends his parables with these words. Is this a command or a decree? It seems to be both in one sense, he commands people to listen carefully and on the other he is pronouncing that the spiritual ears of his listeners open up to receive the truth so we will not perish.

116. Make to yourselves friends (s) “And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends by the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when it fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations.” (Luke 16:9-12).

Following the parable of the unjust steward Jesus reveals some vital keys into how the Father views mammon (wealth) and true riches (spiritual). How we handle earthly wealth is often an indicator of the state of our soul with regard to trustworthiness spiritually. If we have acquired earthly wealth we can choose to use it for selfish unjust purposes, or to share it in order to alleviate others needs in God’s name. Those poor who are saved and restored by this mercy will gladly receive you in eternity!

66 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

117. If your brother sins (p) “Then He said to the disciples,“It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come! It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones. Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him.”

(Luke 17:1-3).

We live in a sinful and corrupted world where people, even believers, make mistakes by accident or through lack of knowledge, creating stumbling stones that take others away from faith in Christ. In Jesus eyes this is a very serious offense and if the person does not repent they are in danger of judgement.

However, if the brother repents then forgiveness should be gladly given.

118. Say, we are unprofitable servants (p) “So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say,We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.”

(Luke 17:10).

When serving the Lord through the Spirit no glory is due to us because it was by his grace that we achieved the purpose. We should remember and retain this humble servant spirit before the King of Kings and not think that we have achieved anything other than obedience.

119. Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! (d) “And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said,The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.”

Pharisees and all hypocrites are looking always and only for an external physical kingdom that they can call their own. They want to be in charge sitting on thrones. But Jesus makes it quite clear that his Kingdom is not of this world but heavenly! The only place in earth that this kingdom is currently found is in the hearts of those who truly believe in him and have received the Spirit into themselves by grace through faith. This is the great mystery of godliness and what Paul called the hope of glory - Christ in you (Col 1:27). The kingdom is only manifest when His people obey Him and do what Jesus did by faith and the Kingdom comes on earth as in heaven. One day the King will return in glory and the Kingdom will once again be visible to those who are worthy of it.

omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

67

120. Go not after them, nor follow them (p) “And he said unto the disciples,The days will come, when ye shall desire to see one of the days of the Son of man, and ye shall not see it. And they shall say to you, See here; or, see there: go not after them, nor follow them. For as the lightning, that lighteneth out of the one part under heaven, shineth unto the other part under heaven; so shall also the Son of man be in his day.” (Luke 17:22-25).

There have been many deceived and deluded false prophets over the last centuries and particularly since the 19th century. Today there are over 30 people who claim to be Jesus Christ! We are warned not to go after these liars because they are possessed by demonic spirits and will bring death. When Jesus returns every eye will see him because it will be as dramatic as lightening. No secret rapture as many assume, but rather a dramatic rupture that no-one will miss!

121. Hear what the unjust judge saith (p) “And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith. And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them? I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:6-8).

Jesus reveals that we must have a persistent faith that will not accept ‘no’ for an answer when it concerns justice for the church. He wonders if, when he returns for the second time, he will find this kind of faith or whether we will have become lukewarm in our attitudes without a persevering, fighting spirit of faithfulness. We must not be passive and give up ground to injustice, but rather continue to plead in prayer night and day for the victory that Jesus paid for. God does hear our urgent prayers for help and will avenge the wicked in this life and in the judgement to come. God cannot be mocked a man reaps what he sows!

122. Suffer little children to come unto me (p) “But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.” (Luke 18:15-17).

There can be nothing more important than entering the eternal kingdom of God, but first we must receive it through genuine faith and trust in our loving heavenly Father. We must not be ‘childish’, but rather ‘childlike’ in that we put all our trust in the Word of God our Father. We must not restrain children from finding Christ, but rather imitate the simple trust they show.

68 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

123. Every one which hath shall be given (d) “For I say unto you,That unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him.” (Luke 19:26-27).

In this parable Jesus was approaching Jerusalem and told of a people who would not submit to his reign even though they had been entrusted with great wealth and wisdom in the Scriptures. Those who were faithful were given more as a reward, but for those who did not respond and submit even what they had was to be taken away. This symbolised how the kingdom of God was going to be taken away from the ‘leaders’ of Israel and Judah and given to the remnant church of believers who accepted Christ. The other Jews eventually ended up with nothing and were scattered when Jerusalem and all Israel was destroyed starting in AD 68-73. We also must be aware that our security and inheritance is not based on our heritage, but only on our faithfulness to Jesus and his teaching.

124. Beware of the scribes (p) “Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in the synagogues, and the chief rooms at feasts;Which devour widows’ houses, and for a shew make long prayers: the same shall receive greater damnation.” (Luke 20:45-47).

If Jesus commands us to beware you can be sure that it is particularly dangerous to the soul. In this case he warns against religious people who are concerned about position, power and prowess. They put on a performance to persuade and plunder the vulnerable after their money in order to keep their religious system running. They ask members for their legacy and take the inheritance of the family members.You can recognise them by their flowing robes and the fact that they are at important banquets with the world leaders. It’s not difficult to see who these people are and yet many are still deceived into following their religious ways. They have religious rules and ceremonies, not found in Scripture, that give members a false sense of security and stability, but it is of man’s law and not the grace of Christ. These ‘leaders’ will receive a greater damnation for leading people down the wrong path - what on earth can be greater than hell fire!? The mind boggles! Take Jesus’ advice and have nothing to do with them.

omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

69

125. Take heed to yourselves (p) “And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.” (Luke 21:34-35).

When we look at the world and even parts of the church, we see many obsessed with eating, drinking and cares of this life. Their god is their stomach and they need entertainment 24/7 to have meaning in life. These people are living in a fantasy world of their own devising and unaware of the utter destruction that will one day come upon them. Even if a soul dies before the return of Christ one day they will all have to give an account of their life. These distractions are all a snare of Satan who aims to keep mankind focussed on this life and its vanities. In this way millions painlessly drop away in hell fire eternally separated from God. Only by prayer and fasting can our eyes once again be turned away from such things, so that we can refocus on the majesty and power of Christ.

126. Watch ye therefore (s) “Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.” (Luke 21:36).

As we have seen before we are called to ‘watch’ and ‘pray’ that we might escape the terrible day of the Lord’s wrath coming upon the earth. It may not seem soon to us, but from heaven’s perspective it’s merely a few days since the warnings were proclaimed! Every soul will stand before the Son of man and be judged to the left or to the right. We must know that we have not been deceived into any other false faith or doctrine which will snare us and drag us with Satan into the pit. Now is the time to seek the Lord and gain his complete assurance of salvation by grace. Terrible things have passed and terrible things are still to come before God takes revenge on his enemies.

127. This do in remembrance of me (c) “And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying,This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.” (Luke 22:19-20).

In the days of Jesus bread was the staple food that they ate with every meal, even for their special services of remembrance, such as Passover in this case. Likewise the Jews were and are great vine growers and produce much wine to have with their other delicacies. In both these things Jesus was not creating another religious ritual or sacrament, but rather He was declaring that whenever we 70 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

eat together we should remember his sacrifice and benefits. Religious minded deceivers have distorted this truth into an impersonal ‘communion service’ that Jesus never intended it to be. The fellowship meal is something that should occur each time we all gather together, even daily, as family or as friends in Christ.

Christ must be remembered among us daily as we celebrate His life flowing to us by the Word (bread) and the Spirit (wine). He have his body and blood for our sakes and we should serve each other in the same way. Fellowship together around the meal and rejoice that he has made us one body and one Spirit, because he is the bread that came from heaven!

128. Weep not for me (d) “But Jesus turning unto them said, Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children.” (Luke 23:28).

Even as Jesus was struggling to carry the wooden cross beam up the hill to calvary, his grace and spirit are ever strong and ready to give warning to the lost!

He knew that the very pathway on which he walked would one day be utterly destroyed and many of those weeping would be dead! He saw the future and knew he would rise again, but the destiny of their children was in doubt, because the end had come for ancient Israel. Likewise when we are persecuted for our belief in the second appearing of Christ we must give similar warning of the terrible day of the Lord which looms upon all mankind!

129. Love each other as I have loved you (c) “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” (John 15:12).

We are not called to simply love each other, as maybe even the worldly person would love his own family or friends, but specifically ‘as I have loved you’. This is a different kind of love which comes only by the holy Spirit. So we must be clear on how Jesus loved his disciples and live in such a way. By carefully examining the Gospels and the record in Acts and the Epistles, we can only conclude that Jesus is calling us to ‘lay down our lives’ for one another in divine servanthood.

This involves both practical and spiritual service towards each one equally, enabling all to be supplied both daily basics and to know God the Father in clarity of mind. This means we share all material things and teach all spiritual things one to another, so that we might grow up into him who is the Head of the body. Knowing God through Christ is to know love, without this relationship we cannot truly understand what selfless love is.

omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

71

130. Wash one another’s feet (p) “ If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet.” (John 13:14) Jesus emphasises the vital importance of humbling ourselves to serve each other, even to the physical cleansing of feet. In ancient days this was an important service to ensure that when gathering together each one was clean and inoffensive to the other when reclining to eat. It signifies the kind of care and concern for each member of Christ’s body that we should have. Each one is precious and in need of constant love and cleansing from the world around us, so that we can gather with Jesus in purity of mind and body.

131. Keep my commandments (p) “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15) As we have seen, in all the above commands that Jesus gave to us as His disciples, His commandments go beyond a mere religious observance of Law. His commands are life giving wisdom that every man on earth would do well to heed and obey, even for his own benefit. Our ultimate aim however is to keep His words because He is worthy of such love and devotion. His love for us is immeasurably greater than we can even give back to Him, even through eternity.

The very least we do now, to somehow obey and follow Him, will never seem enough in this life time, we will fall short, but we press on by His own grace in us!

132. For the Son of man is Lord even of the Sabbath day (d) “For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day.” (Matt 12:8) In coming to earth in person God in Christ fulfilled all Scripture that prophesied His appearing. He is the ‘reality’ that was foreshadowed by many holy and religious Laws and commands of the Father to the Israelites. Jesus makes it clear that as the author of all such things He rises above all of it. He even declares here that He can do whatever He pleases, even on the Sabbath day. Who would argue with God? As we enter the Kingdom and Christ dwells in us we experience the eternal sabbath rest of God as He always intended. Man lost His peace and Jesus has given us back our peace with the Almighty creator. One day we will dwell with Him in the new heaven and earth when every day is in His presence and for His pleasure, day after day after day - forever!

72 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

133. Ye shall receive power (d) “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” (Acts 1:7) Even though the disciples had been with Jesus many years and His words had cleansed them and worked in them, they still lacked a vital part of what was needed for the Kingdom to come into hearts around the earth - power. They were not to try and do anything in their own strength, a lesson they had already learnt, but rather wait for His Spirit to come. We too must have the same approach as they did. As keen as we may be to bring change and spread the message, it must be done by the Spirit and not by might of man or money. All the glory for the work must go to Jesus alone or else we may find that there is no reward in heaven for all the efforts we perceive to have made on His behalf. The Spirit has been busy over these two millennia since that great day of Pentecost and the word has now spread to ‘the uttermost part of the earth’. It’s time to get ready and look up for the King comes for His Bride!

omega-ministries.org

o

The Commands of Christ

73

74 The Commands of Christ

o

omega-ministries.org

Further Reading This short encouragement is brought to you completely free of charge, because it was received by grace. if it has blessed you, helped you and inspired you please pass it on to a brother, sister or friend.

On the website you will find other free material to build you up in the powerful faith of Jesus Christ. www.omega-ministries.org. We pray that these teachings will inspire you to know Jesus personally through prayer and ever increasing meditation on his Word revealed in scripture and the prophetic writings of the apostles.

We also recommend other writers in our links section who have inspired and encouraged us in being obedient to wisdom and to the ways of the Lord, some of these may not be free.

Omega Ministries is led by the Holy Spirit and financed by him. We do not need any money from you! However we do ask that you pray and consider donating to one of the areas of great need highlighted on the website. God loves a cheerful, generous giver from the heart and not under any compulsion, so that it is your free will choice, bless you. When you give we echo Paul’s great prayer for your life (Phil 4:19).

The secret to success is found in knowing the person of Jesus Christ and not in any material thing, may his life giving Spirit fill you and anoint you for the work he has called you to.

Free Publications List* Who I Am - in Christ Jesus The Sabbath Rest - in Christ Jesus Overcoming Satan - by Christ Jesus The Fear of the Lord - in Christ Jesus More Than Conquerors - in Christ Jesus The Commands - of Christ Jesus Overcome Deception - by Christ Jesus

Unlocking your true Identity Living in the Presence of God Overcome the schemes of Satan Living in the Fear of the Lord Imitating the Apostolic Obeying the Master Discerning spiritual blindness

Your Feedback We appreciate all feedback and are open to correction if based entirely on the revelation of scripture. We by no means claim ownership of any truths or understanding expressed in these documents, but pray the Holy Spirit has inspired us and you. Our motto will always be: SEEK FIRST THE KINGDOM and HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS. Amen * There may be more than listed here please see the website for more details

Do you not know?

Have you not heard?

The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.

He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.

Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.

They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

ISAIAH 40:28-31

Omega Ministries The publications and website provide free access to the knowledge of the Kingdom of Heaven. They are designed to encourage and empower you to fulfil your destiny in Christ Jesus. All materials are provided free of charge if downloaded in digital format. Feel free to print out send to friends, duplicate, but please no reselling or relabelling.

Please donate.

All donations go to special causes to feed the hungry, homeless and others in need. If we have blessed you please bless them! Give online. www.omega-ministries.org email: info@omega-ministries.org Based in Eastbourne UK. Š2014 All rights reserved